I would like to thank Portland Running Co. for hiring this knowledgeable staff who made a big difference in my first Hood to Coast experience. Otherwise, I would have hated it.

To make the story short, I went to PRC (SE Grand) and talked to one of the staff there (I couldn’t remember his name but I will thank him personally when I go buy my new running shoes!) about my ailing shin. I was convinced that the problem was my in-soles and was prepared to buy a new pair of in-soles. He told me that my in-soles are not the problem. It’s my running shoes… the soles are worn out. (Well, I read in a few running articles that you’re supposed to change your shoes after 400 miles and I've only put in about 275 miles. What's up with that? ) This PRC staff told me that it's not going to make any difference even if I buy a new pair of in-soles which of course saved me $25. Instead he suggested to take Ibuprofen, buy "Salonpas" (these are medicated patches in a green box) and toughen up (I like that last one). The Ibuprofen, Salonpas and Toughen Up combination worked for me. I can't say that my shin didn't hurt after running each leg but I survived and really had a great time. Thanks again to PRC for hiring a knowledgeable staff.


P.S. Next big race is PDX Marathon in October! I'm Red and I'm Proud!

Toughen Up!! Too funny.

Salonpas is very popular with the Asian cultures, as witnessed by the yards (maybe miles) worth of it, worn during the 05 Honolulu Marathon. You'd see people the day before, and swear they had already run the dang thing or were being taped up to be mailed home. Along the course were discarded strips everywhere. You can probably imagine what the starting line smelled like with 35,000 participants and high humidity. I think I was getting some pre-treatment through osmosis of the Salonpas vapors. They also use a lot of cooling sprays, but that's another story.

Regarding the 400 miles that you are supposed to get from shoes, I never have reached it. My shoes usually last about 300 miles. So, at 275 plus HTC, you sound ready to get some new ones. Plus, buying new shoes now will assure that you are in good shape for the marathon.
ACPam

Congrats on your first Hood to Coast!!

I agree with Pam, you might be ready for new shoes. I typically only get about 300 miles from my shoes. Come to think of it.... it could be that by 300 miles I'm tired of my old dirty shoes and want a pretty new shiny pair.

Without knowing how worn your shoes are I don't know if I'd use them for the 21 miler but with 4+ weeks until marathon day, you have plenty time to get a pair and make sure the fit works for you.

Good luck!
Sharon