Get Ready to Run! Half Marathon {Want to Join Me?} + A Discount Code To Sweeten The Deal
I need to be very clear about something right up front. I am not a runner. It’s not a natural desire or thing for me. I try to exercise semi-regularly to support (or maybe that’s offset, not sure) my love of food, but running? Yeah, it’s hard and painful and I kind of tend to glare at people who live, love and breathe running, especially when they run fast and with a smile on their face. I used to run. I think. In another lifetime after college and before having a bunch of little kids running around me but it’s been a while since I’ve run more than, say, a mile or two. Despite all that, I’ve always, always had a half marathon on my bucket list. Even as a non-runner, it kind of calls to me.
So a few months ago, I decided that 2015 is my year. I’m running a half marathon this year if it kills me (and it probably will)!
Here’s the fun part, though. I figured, if I’m going to go to all this effort (training, healthy eating, trying to find the cutest running shoes on the planet, etc.), why don’t I invite you to join me, too? Can you even imagine what fun that would be to run this together? Eeek! It makes me so, so excited!
No matter your running ability, there is time to get ready for this race. I promise. Even if that means you run-slash-walk…or run slowly (hi, that’s me back there running slowly)…or race to the finish for a PR.
Here’s a little extra incentive: I’ve teamed up with the Utah Valley Marathon (voted one of the country’s top 10 races in 2014) and they are giving an exclusive 20% discount to all Mel’s Kitchen Cafe readers! I’m ignoring the fact that I’m willingly signing up to run across a small country (ok, a very small country) and focusing on the positive: free t-shirt. I don’t know about you but I’ll do just about anything for a free t-shirt.
This is just the motivation I need to get my body in shape, my legs to run a little faster (ok, just run), and get my sights on a goal that I’ve had in mind for forever.
Here are the important details:
-The race is Saturday, June 13, right smack dab in one of the most beautiful spots in Utah (Provo Canyon).
-Not only is there a half marathon (the one I’ll be running) but there’s also a full marathon, a 10K and a free kid’s 1K.
–To register, go here and use the code mkc20 for your 20% discount!
I’m not sure who we are or what’s happened to us, but my family has been bitten by the running bug; Brian, Jackson (10) and Walker (9) are officially signed up for the 10K (they’ve been running a couple times a week and the boys are in heaven they get to stay up a bit late to go running with dad), I’m running the half, and all the kids are running the free 1K. And after the race, we are going to spend the rest of the day in a hot tub. Somehow, somewhere.
I know this race may not be in everyone’s neck of the woods (I’ll be driving 5+ hours to get there myself) but if you have a hankering to join in the fun, please comment below and let me know!
That’s awesome, Mel! I’m sure you’ll do great! 🙂 I just started running about a year ago, and have done two 5Ks so far. I can attest that it is possible to start out as a “I think people who run for fun are CRAZY” kind of person, and end up loving running! I tell myself- either I was wrong in thinking that, or I am crazy. 😉 Running has helped me get in shape like nothing else!
Thanks, Michelle! I can honestly say I’m not at the “i love running” phase but by some miracle, perhaps I will be. 🙂
Mel!! How fun!!! If I was not due with baby #4 in July I would absolutely be in on this!! I am no runner, but I have “finished” two half marathons (where I mostly ran and sometimes walked:) and the Utah valley marathon was my favorite!! It’s so beautiful! Good luck, and have the best time!
Thanks, Meg! I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t want to run a half marathon at 9 months pregnant. 🙂
Good Luck! I’m hoping to run a half this year also, though Utah is a bit too far away for me. I’ll be signing up for one closer to/in Ohio. I started Couch to 5K (C25K) this past fall and ran a 5K race in November. I’m doing Bridge to 10K now. When I start training for my half I’ll probably use Hal Higdon’s training schedule. I’ve heard a lot of good things about it.
Love your comment, Christi! I’ve heard good things about Hal Higdon’s schedules, too. Good luck running your half this year!
SO FUN! Do you know if the discount works for the full marathon, as well? We are in Utah that weekend (from WA, where we currently reside), just so my husband can run that marathon. I have been thinking about doing an event as well. Thanks for the code and the excitement. Good luck, and enjoy it! Running is the best… even when it’s the worst!
Hayley – yes! The discount should work for any of the races!
woohoo! Thanks!
Go, Mel, go! I moved from Happy Valley to Texas last year but would consider making the 20-hour drive AND running a half if that meant there was a chance I could meet you face to face. You’re a household name (and lifesaver… and legend…) in our kitchen. 😀
So proud of you! We’ll be cheering you on from Texas!
You are so sweet, Annie – that would be quite the drive for you to make. I remember making that drive every summer of my life growing up (we lived in Texas and would drive to Utah/Idaho every year). It’s not for the faint of heart. Thanks for cheering on from afar!
I ran the 10K for this years ago, and it was a great course. After about 8 or so half-marathons, I said I was done, but this is really tempting. Helping my DIL train for a half and maybe I could talk her into doing this one. June would be just right for training and we are only 2 hours away in Ogden.
Keep me posted if you and your daughter in law sign up, Jan!
How fun! I happen to live not too far from you, Eagle/Star area. I trail run on some trails behind my house. So if your training involves hill work and you need a trail or a running buddy let me know!
Thanks, Cheryl! That would be fun!
You should make shirts that say “I run….so I can eat (from melskitchencafe)” or something like that. That’s why I run…..so I can put cream in my coffee, and eat all the delicious recipes from your site! Good luck, I hope it’s a great experience for you.
You are hilarious, Nicole – that may just become my new tagline.
Oh dear…..all winter I have been cookin’ up all your goodness and the pants are a little bit more snug than normal. This could be my motivation. It has been about 3 years since I ran the Ogden Full Marathon and so I may be a little rusty. You are going to love the half. It is probably one of my favorite races and their is nothing like running next to all those people who have worked so hard. I may be in….. 🙂
I hear you on the snug thing. That may or may not have influenced my decision to just take the plunge and register for this thing. 🙂 You better let me know if you register (no pressure, but I think you totally should especially if you’ve already done one – that means you are a pro!).
I just came home from a meeting, saw your email and the next thing I know my 19 year old daughter and I are registered! I wasn’t even thinking about signing up for a half, but it’s perfect timing. Thanks so much for putting it out there and for the discount! It will be just the motivation I need to get moving again. I ran my first and only 1/2 marathon (the Moab Half) three years ago and although the training was difficult at times (It gets easier!) the race was awesome and a such an exhilarating day. I’m excited for you to experience it all. I wish you all the best and hopefully can give you a hug for all you’ve done for me and my family with your wonderful blog!
Oh my gosh, Jaime – I’m so excited that you and your daughter are running this!! And yes, we’ll plan details as it gets closer but I’d love to meet you!
That is great Mel! If you decide to come up to Logan like someone else mentioned then I will join you for the top of Utah half. I did it last summer and it is also a fantastic course. Running a half is a great accomplishment and you will feel so good about yourself. It has been especially rewarding for me to run these races post having kids. It is a sacrifice of time and other things but completely worth it. Best of luck!
Thanks, Sara – I’ll keep you posted! I have a friend who wants me to do another half with her later in the summer (she’s having her 8th baby in May) and I’ve tentatively said “we’ll see” since I probably should just focus on one at a time. 🙂 But I hear the Top of Utah race is phenomenal, too (if that can really be used to describe something that will probably cause me pain).
When I trained for a marathon several years ago, Provo canyon was my very favorite spot to run. It is gorgeous! The scenery helps take your mind off the pain 🙂 You will be a rockstar on the course, just like you’re teaching us all to be in the kitchen! I’m going to have to give this some thought– it would be fun to run with you!
You better keep me posted, Julie! Would love to have you run!
I did it Mel- I just signed up! I went for a “test run” on Saturday with my kids to see how difficult this will be for me, and (probably because I ran a snail’s pace) it was actually pretty pleasant 🙂 Thanks for the motivation to get me to do this! My 5 yr old and 3 yr old are excited about the 1K, too! Your training schedule looks perfect for me. I’m looking forward to the running updates on your blog, and meeting you in June!
I’m so excited, Julie! You are starting out with such a great attitude – you’ll do great! Can’t wait to meet you, too! Thanks for letting me know you’ll be joining in the fun (of course I use that term very loosely).
I’ve decided the same thing! I will be doing the SLO 1/2 marathon. Starting as a novice. I will wish you luck if you wish me luck!
Good luck, Kelly!
This is a great race (I only have done the half). Beautiful. Very fast the first 10 miles…very uphill miles 11-12. Nice the last mile. You can DO it! I’m excited for you and anyone else who joins!
You rock Mel! I LOVE those shoes pictured at the top of the post, what kind are they? Is that not the point of this post? 🙂
Hey Deb – these shoes: http://www.zappos.com/asics-gel-cumulus-16-violet-purple-multi (except I found them on sale here local).
This is the first year I’ll be doing a half marathon too–to celebrate my 40th birthday! I was planning to do the Star Valley Half on July 11 (since I’m up in Wyoming), but Provo is only 3 hours away, and I’ve heard Provo Canyon is gorgeous. I’m thinking I just might do the Utah Valley one instead–or maybe if I’m feeling ambitious I’ll do both! (Ha ha. That’s a big maybe.) Anyway, I’m so glad you’re doing this! It’s nice to know of someone else who’s tackling a half for the first time. Whether I do the Star Valley or the Utah Valley race, I’m in!
Andrea – I love this! I’m turning 40 in a couple years and maybe if I’m motivated to do a half this year, I’ll celebrate and do one the year I turn 40, too. 🙂 I would bow down to you if you did both. But if you decide to do the Utah Valley one, let me know! And either way, we can support each other along the way with training, right?
I did The Star Valley 1/2 back in their inaugural year! It was my first half marathon. It was a gorgeous course and mostly down-hill. Plus, the I really loved running a “tribute” marathon. Highly recommend it if you decide to do it!
Um, yes! I am totally in! I got really excited when I saw running shoes on your website! And I already feel a little bit like we are friends even though you don’t know me. But I really want to do this! I live in Mississippi, but I’m always looking for a good excuse to go to Utah. This may be it. Even if I don’t run in Provo, I will in run a half marathon in the hills of Vicksburg on the same day at the same time and just think of me when you get the t-shirt! This is a fun a great idea!!
Emily – you would certainly win some type of award if you traveled all the way from Mississippi to Utah but you better let me know if you do! That would be so fun. Otherwise, let me know if you sign up for a local race, too!
I live not too far, up Hidden in the mnts, from Provo canyon. Look for me cheering you on. I’ll set up a MKC table full of dark chocolate. 😉 good luck.
Laurel! Your comment made me laugh out loud! You are awesome. And seriously, a table full of dark chocolate might be just the thing I need to get me through this. 🙂 Love this!
If you do, I’d love to join you in cheering Mel on!
You can do it!
Good luck Mel! I ran my first half-marathon last year, and although I ended up running it kind of last minute (my husband was running with a group of our friends and one girl had to drop out the day before the event due to injury, so I took her spot. I think I’m crazy. Lol), I look back on it SO glad that I took the chance and decided to run. It’s such a great feeling afterward to know that you’ve accomplished something so challenging, and the medals are a pretty nice keepsake too! So, if I could do it with practically no training, you could DEFINTELY do it. I’m looking forward to running more once I have this baby…I think running another half is a good post-pregnancy goal! 😉
Oh, Kimiko – you are amazing! I most certainly couldn’t do what you did but I do feel inspired by your comment. Thank you!
i so wish I could do this with you, but I’m giving birth end ofay, so *maybe* it’s not such a good idea. I trained for and ran a half marathon last year, and it was one of the most difficult and rewarding things I’ve done. I am not a runner, and I’m actually about 50 pounds overweight, but it was amazing to me what my body could accomplish when I put in the work and time. It was also really important to find a way to invest in myself, when so much of my time is spent giving to the lovely small children in my life. Good luck, you’re going to do great!
Amanda – your comments completely sums up why I want to do this so thank you! I am far from a “runner” myself but I’m looking forward to doing something to kind of rejuvenate me; emotionally and physically!
I’m seriously considering it and am hoping to get a sister or two (or maybe even 5!) on board. I want to know what someone else was asking – Will we get to meet you and hang out for at least a few minutes?? And… do you have any training plans you’d be willing to share? It sounds like a lot of fun, and I’ll let you know about my signing up when/if it happens.
Yes, yes, yes! To everything. 🙂 I wasn’t sure what the interest would be and to be honest, I don’t want to put pressure on anyone (this was kind of a hair brained idea myself) but I don’t care if there are 2 people or 200 people that decide to run this, I will most definitely plan a meet up of some kind and like I mentioned in the above comments, if there’s interest, I would love to have something we all wear to identify us as Mel’s Runners (that sounds weird and I’m not out to start a “thing” but you know what I mean, just a way for us to know who to say hi to without looking creepy). 🙂 Keep me posted if you sign up. I mentioned to Helen above that I’ve modified a 20-week half marathon schedule to fit my needs and I’d love to share it with anyone who wants it, understanding that I’m not a personal trainer and don’t want to assume liability for someone who pushes too far, too fast. Know what I mean? I’ll also be sharing a few tips in the next few months about what I’m eating and how I’m training (but I promise not to detract from the main point of the blog: delicious recipes).
Tempted, Mel, very tempted! I’ve done one in provo canyon before and it is so gorgeous! I’ll let you know what I decide!
Missy – I’m going to pressure you into doing it (I can, you know, cause you’re my cousin). Keep me posted (just do it!).
That’s awesome! I’m a runner (I’ve done several marathons, half marathons, triathlons) and I’m always thrilled to hear about new runners taking the plunge and tackling a Half.
May the road be flat, and the wind always at your back 🙂
Rob
Thanks for the smile, Rob, and the well-wishes!
Oh Mel! I’m so so tempted! Why did you post this today? 🙂
Camille! Dude, your sister just said she is tempted and you are tempted…I think that’s a sign. Both of you should do it! Come on! I need the moral support.
Top of Utah- last weekend of Aug. Come with me!! And you can stay at my house:)
Lisa! So tempting. Let’s see if I make it through this one alive first. 🙂
I ran the full marathon a couple of years ago. It was beautiful even with it raining! I’m running Ogden’s full marathon in May so I may just be tempted to squeeze this, be it full or half, this year to support you. Good luck and stay safe in training!
You are inspiring! Good luck with your full marathon training! If you decide to do the half with Utah Valley, let me know!
Awesome! I did my first 1/2 4 years ago and have done 5 more since. I wish I could run with you! Happy training 🙂
Yeah, that looks like a great run! If I lived closer I would definitely run the half. Enjoy your run, find good, supporting running shoes and enjoy the training. 🙂
I’m in! I did my first half back in Feb 2013 and then I went on a mission to northern England and couldn’t really keep it up. This is a good chance to get motivated again. Thanks for the push! Love your blog, have been reading for years.
Yay, Kate! Keep me posted on when you sign up and if you end up running this particular half! I have a little surprise in mind for everyone who wants to run it (or any of the other Utah Valley Marathon races on June 13) so we can run as a team (even if we aren’t running next to each other so to speak, if that makes sense). I’m excited!
I think we should all wear “Mel” t-shirts, or buttons, or something…so we know who each other are! (Although my 9 yr. old son isn’t so sure about that right now.) 🙂
Haha! That’s funny, Jen – my 9- and 11-year olds probably wouldn’t be too keen on that either but your comment gave me an idea, though. I think for everyone that says “I’m in!” – I’m going to have a little something to wear (details coming soon) that identifies us all as runners on the same team, even if we aren’t running in the same race (some may be doing the 10K, others the half, etc) or running right next to each other (as in, I’ll probably be on the, er, slower end of the spectrum). Even if it’s only five or six of us, it would be fun!
Way to go, Mel! I just signed up for my first half marathon as well. You and I have a lot of the same taste in food, so maybe one day you could post your running playlist. I need ideas! Good luck with your training!
Ah, that’s a great idea, Jill! I’ll put together my favorite running songs if you promise to share yours, too!
Oh wow Mel, this is a really big deal !! I have done the running thing before and my knees hated me for it … That being said, this is so tempting for me on so many levels. I need to do this for my mental and physical health .. And the opportunity to be in on something like this with you sounds like so much fun. I don’t have any great excuse in terms of travel time … It’s only just over an hour for me. So here’s the questions … Are you going to make some training schedule that you are willing to share? Will I be able to keep myself accountable to someone besides myself? Can I be slow…. Like walk part of the time? How far is a half-marathon (this is probably a dumb question) ? And if I decide to do this will I really get to hang out with you even briefly
Hey Helen – great questions! I have a training schedule I’m using for the next 20 weeks. I needed the push to start now instead of waiting for the more typical 16- or 12- week training programs. I’d be willing to share it (I basically modified from one online) with the caveat that I’m not a personal trainer and everyone needs to trust their own judgment on how far and fast to push it. I’d LOVE to have you as part of this. Love, love it. There are lots of training programs for walk/run half marathons where you run for 2 minutes, walk for 1 (or vice versa). Thats definitely doable. The half marathon is 13.1 miles but don’t let that scare you – there’s 20 weeks to prepare! And yes, if you do this, we will definitely meet up, promise!!
I think I want to get the hubby and the kids in on this too .. I’m definitely going to want to see your training schedule. Walk/run will be my speed .. And I want in on the playlist … And some advice on good running shoes!!! When the temporary Boise resident returns home tomorrow we will look at all the details and I will let you know as soon as registration is complete .. Looks like I’m in . Thanks for doing this. I think it’s just the motivation I’ve been needing
This was on my bucket list as well! I checked it off a couple of years ago. It is a lot of training, but you will feel awesome when you’re done! I’m settling for a 10k this year. Good luck!!
Good luck with your 10K, Lisa!
I’m running my first half marathon this year too and I’m excited (and terrified)! I would love to run this one as well! I”d have to drive 9 hours to get there but I’m game!
I’m so glad I’m not the only one running my first half this year, Kristen! That’s awesome you are going for it, too. If you end up making the drive down to this one, let me know! I’d love to say hi and as I mentioned in response to other comments, for anyone that’s interested (seriously, no pressure), it would be fun for us all to wear something that identifies us as people on the same “team” – I’ll get something in the works, even if it’s just a few of us!
Thanks for the code!
That’s awesome, Mel! Good for you guys. I just started running and it’s not easy, but has been quite rewarding. Hope you all have fun!
Just signed up for my first half marathon as well! I’ve always loathed running, but some how got talked into this one. However we are in Scotland for the hubby’s grad school, so I will literally be running across a small island and back… Here’s to training!
That has to be a gorgeous course, Becky. Good luck!
Congrats for taking that first step. I started training for a 1/2 two years ago and suffered an injury that kept me out. I was quite bummed. I love the idea of running but with I had never done it before. Needless to say, i fell off the wagon. I’m looking forward to giving it another try, but maybe I’ll start with a local 10k. Good Luck!!!
That sounds like an awesome idea, Sandy – injuries are no fun! Good luck if you decide to run a 10K this year!
Utah Valley Half Marathon! You’ll love it! I ran that race some years ago and enjoyed every step of it… and that says something because I’m not an athlete. I just took it slow and it was a great experience. Hope you enjoy it as well. You can totally do this!
Your comment instantly made me feel like I can do this, Candela – thank you!
Yes…..I will encourage you!
No…I’m not doing it.
I got into running a few years ago and then had an injury that has never completely healed. I can’t afford another year of PT.
You go girl!
Hooray!! I’m in Utah County so I can totally be in on this! I have a sad story of training for their 2012 half, then not making it to the starting line. We just had a baby, so I might have to stick with the 10k so she doesn’t end up starving for one reason or another 🙂 I love that this is a family goal for you guys, that is so neat! Good luck with your training!!!
Nicole – you and I may have similar sad stories (I trained for one a decade or more ago but never actually ran it either). If you end up running the 10K (or half!) with this race, let me know!
I’m in. I started running last spring, and I have never EVER enjoyed running before, but something clicked this time and I’ve stuck with it. I was thinking about doing the Canyonlands half marathon, but it’s at the very tail end of winter, and I started thinking I’d rather have all that hardcore training take place in the spring than in the dead of winter. I’m signing up for the UT Valley half today!
Done–I’m all registered. Thanks for the coupon code 🙂
You are so fast signing up, Rachel! I’m excited you are running it!
I would if I could! I am having my third baby in June and I am so so so sad to miss all the running going on this summer. HAVE FUN!!! It’s so worth it!
No running for me. I was an avid runner when I was younger and my knees paid the price. Now Good luck!
So excited for you! You go girl. Part of me would jump at this opportunity but not sure these rusty 56 year old knees feel the same. How does the saying go…the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. You have motivated me though to maybe take some baby steps in 2015. Have always been curious about running and those shoes are awfully cute!
Ha ha ha…..not a chance,
Yay! Running is exhilarating and exhausting all at the same time! I have committed for 2015 to be my year for my first half as well. I’ve running for about 4 years and still haven’t done it yet.
We can do this together! Obviously I’ll be doing a local one in PA. But I’ll be thinking of you in my heart.
Praying you finish strong Mel!
Utah is a bit of a 20sh hour drive so count me out but I could get motivated to do a half out here;) way to go!!
My rheumatologist won’t let me run anymore but good luck to those who are trying! When you want to swim or do other non-weight bearing, knee crushing things I’m in!