Who doesn’t love dressing up for Halloween and being silly? Especially when that silly involves teaching your husband how to put on tights?

My legs, not BC’s!

On Sunday morning, we pulled on said tights and headed to the Museum Campus for the 2012 Monster Dash. Things were a bit chaotic with three separate races starting within roughly 30 minutes of each other. The race offered an un-timed fun run 5k, timed and competitive 10k and timed half marathon. BC was registered to run the 10k and I foolishly signed up for the half marathon.

This picture doesn’t do the thong leotard justice…

Where was my head when I signed up, no really, what was I thinking? Some of you may be aware, I am planning to run the Rock n Roll Las Vegas Marathon in December. At least that is what my credit card statement tells me because my heart isn’t really diggin’ the idea. Because I experienced a post marathon slump last year, I signed up for the Monster Dash as motivation to keep me running after the big race plus I had 14 miles on the schedule for my Vegas long run. Well…. I underestimated how unprepared I would be to race again two weeks post Chicago. Mentally and physically. I’m no SkinnyRunner, I don’t know how she can do back to back races.  I’m jealous!

The week after the marathon I gave my legs one week to recover, no running (week zero). Leading up to the Monster dash (week 1) I did a few shorter runs- 5, 7, 3 miles. I didn’t think the half would be too bad, but  once I got out on the course, I just didn’t have the drive. The later miles I took some walk breaks. At mile 9 I took a long bathroom break (you suck, IBS). So lame. Overall, I made the decision to just watch all the costumes, get my mileage in and have fun. Mission accomplished.

BC had an awesome race. He placed 5th overall and 1st in his age group. When you race in a thong leotard and pink tights, boy best be running fast to represent. So proud of him.  I can dream someday my miles will start with a 6.

Monster Dash Pros and Cons:

- The race was organized, a bit crowded at points since it’s run on the lakefront path, but not terrible.
- First mile of the race involves a lot of zig zagging and was congested.
- Aid stations were prepared and well stocked. The aid stations felt so short, but really I think I am spoiled from just having the crazy long and amazing stations in the Chicago marathon.  The order of water and Gatorade was inconsistent at aid stations, but it was not a big deal since the ‘Gatorade’ was electric blue and impossible to mistake for water.

- They handed out Hammer gels at Mile 9 (no, thankyouverymuch says the girl with IBS to new fuel).
- Swag zip up shirts are nice. Love me some monkey cuffs! The medals are simple and large.
- Easy $16 parking at Soldier Field, short walk to start/finish.

After the race, BC and I stripped down the costumes and made ourselves presentable for breakfast. My side pony got moved to a more respectable position at the back of my crown. I crushed some blueberry pancakes!

I would recommend the Monster Dash, especially for a fun experience as a low pressure race. Not necessarily a race to bring your “A” game, but enjoy the costumes, lakefront course and have a great time!