Disneyland 1/2 Marathon!

Looking for any advice from all you experienced marathoners out there!!  How do I keep up my energy thoughout the whole 13.2 miles???  Also shin splints...any recomendations how to ease the pain?  I completed my 10 mile training last Sunday in about 2 hours 15 min so I am hoping I am on the right track to completing the whole thing in under 3 1/2 hours.  Also does anyone want any company running/walking this?  I have many supporters (family & friends) that will be cheering me on-from the sidelines.  See they completed this 2 years ago while I was picked up at mile 10.  I am about 40 pounds lighter now thanks to my surgery in Jan so this is a very personal goal for me....Just wanted to know if anyone out there is going through the same nervous stomach out there as I am...thanks!

10 miles in 2:15? Damn girl, you're fast! I would not be able to keep up with you!  You're going to do fabulous and I doubt that you will get picked up.

 I'll be doing the Disneyland half too, I'm still a newbie runner but here's what I learned so far...I'm sure some more experienced runners will chime in too.

When running over longer ditances you need to replenish your body with water, potassium (to prevent cramps), salt, and electrolytes.

I carry Gu gel in my runner's belt, I tried the Cliff shot blocks, but I don't care for the gummy consistency. Some people like the Jelly Belly sports beans, I think they're ok.   You can pick up all these items at a running store. I suggest trying these items on a training run first instead of trying a new item on race day.

I notice that I run better when I drink Gatorade or G2 during a run instead of jus****er...Propel does nothing for me.

Oh! ...and check out the Exercise and Fitness message board, there is a TON of good advice there.

Good luck, and run strong!

I will be there....along with Kevin.  We both did it last year too!  I think Helen will be out there too? 

My knee hurts, and I think I'm going to need new running shoes. :(

How many miles does it take to properly break in a new pair?

Miss Monica the Runner,
You really shouldn't have to break in shoes.  You should probably get your new shoes now.  To make sure that they are comfortable.  The shoes that you wear even if you get the same style sometimes there are slight changes to the shoes.  That is what you need to look for.  Your knee is hurting probably because you need the new shoesies.  I love to get new running shoes oh they feel so good on my feet.  I have my shoes from LA last year and they're about worn out. 
I wish that I was running but I ran to otherday and hip still gets sore.
Liz

If you dont mind would I be able to join you???  I always run/walk better and keep up when I have someone training with me.  I did put a post out on the excerise forum and Kevin replied.  Can you tell me where you guys will be meeting if you don't mind? Thanks

I don't know, I didn't even think about meeting at the start line yet. I was just freaking out about finishing!

Send me your info and we'll try to work something out.

I think we should all try to meet for dinner the night before (since we have to go down to the expo anyway).  What ya think?  Also, I believe there is a group of 5k'ers here for Saturday......maybe we can go cheer them on and then do the expo.  Luana......are you guys still doing the 5k?

Yap Cindy and I will be there for the 5k. I can not wait to see everyone. Its going to be fun. This is going to be her frist race, so at this point I am hope we just finish. LOL

We are doing Long Beach 1/2. IF she can get moving, that is.

LL

The best way to keep your energy up is to do a run/walk ratio throughout the 13.1 mile race.  The walk breaks will give your muscles the opportunity to have a "mini" recovery and will allow you to go the distance. 

Shin splints are typically a "new" runner injury that will go away as you strengthen muscles in your calves and ankles.  Also, the majority of shin splints are caused by running shoes that are not well suited for your foot.  Make certain that you go to a running store to have your shoes fitted.  Don't trust a sporting goods store or mall sports shoes store to fit you in good running shoes.  You need to go to a store that specializes in running to get a good fit.

You are going to do just great!  Enjoy the race, you can't beat the scenery!