Runners Lounge

Take It and Run Thursday: Who Would You Run With?

This week's sponsor is Jillian, from the blog Finishing is Winning and she brings a great question to the Lounge:

You get to run the last six miles of your next marathon with 6 different people.  They can be dead or alive; famous or not famous.  Who are these people and why did you pick them?  Furthermore, why did you pick them for the specific mile you did?  Remember, you get an extra .2 miles with runner #6.

Before you jump over to the article and leave your response, take a moment to learn more about Jillian and her running.

 

For next week's question, Kitzzy joins us as the sponsor and offers this question to ponder and respond to:

I find yoga to be an excellent companion to my running to avoid
injury, improve flexibility, and help relieve sore muscles after a
hard workout or race. Tell us about your experience with yoga as it
relates to running. If you have not tried it, why not? If you have,
did it help? How often do you feature yoga in your weekly workout
regime? What are your favorite yoga poses and routines? Pass on your
recommendations for your favorite yoga DVDs, instructors, podcasts,
online resources, etc.

Running on Food: Adding Amazing Grass Chocolate to your Breakfast!

This article is part of a new series on Nutrition for Runners.   Heather from the blog, Trials of Training, has offered her expertise in Nutrition to runners in the Lounge to pass along information on recipes, nutrition, and running/food related questions.  She has her BS in Nutrition from Penn State, she is currently working to be a Registered Dietician, and is a loves to help runners with their questions.

Past articles can be found in the Nutrition and Hydration section and Recipe section in the Lounge.

by Heather

I recently received a package in the mail from a fellow blogging friend/runner. She uses the Amazing Grass powders for smoothies and has posted a few reviews. I had never heard of this product; I was intrigued. So, she sent them my way!

While there are a few “flavors” to choose from, I picked the Chocolate Infusion first. Rather than using it in a smoothie, I thought I’d try to be creative. My thought process always ties chocolate and peanut butter together; why not add it to my oatmeal-peanut butter breakfast combo??

This experiment didn’t exactly go as planned. Maybe if I had added it prior to cooking the oats? Maybe if I had included skim milk in the mix for some extra liquid? Maybe this powder isn’t meant to be added to cereal! Who knows.

I wondered what else these packages could be used with, and a quick Google search provided more answers than anticipated! The Amazing Grass site is FULL of ideas! These breakfast options caught my eye (and sound much better than the oatmeal concoction I came up with initially)…..

Pancakes (brought to Amazing Grass via www.thehealthyapple.com)

1/3 cup oats
2 eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 scoop Amazing Grass Chocolate Green SuperFood powder
1/2 banana (mashed or sliced)
Cinnamon to taste (optional)

“Mix together oats and two eggs with, Amazing Grass powder, vanilla extract and cinnamon in a bowl. Add mashed banana to the batter. Preheat a skillet on the stovetop sprayed with non-stick spray. Pour batter into skillet over medium heat, forming into a pancake shape. Cook for 3 minutes or until slightly brown; using a spatula, carefully flip the pancake. When pancake is completely cooked, remove from skillet and serve. Top with fresh fruit and drizzle with honey, syrup or warm nut butter.”

ChocoBanana Smoothie (two servings)

2 scoops of Chocolate Green SuperFood
2 cups of Skim milk (can substitute Rice or Soy milk)
1/4 cup of plain yogurt (substitute Greek yogurt for higher protein)
1 banana
1 cup Ice (optional)
Blend together and enjoy!

Have you tried these SuperFoods? What are your thoughts and/or recipe ideas?

Lessons From Lisa: How To Run 100 Miles

Thanks to Lisa Smith- Bretchen (or on Facebook) and her ultra running friends for joining Tom Green this week to talk about "how to run 100 miles" both figuratively and literally. 

In this podcast, she provides great tips on how to tackle longer distances as well as reminding us to "Shoot High and Dream Big!"

Well worth a listen and definitely a running friend you want with you on your next run!

Download Lessons from Lisa Running Long

Why I Run ...

The weekly links for Why I Run haven't run out yet - still a plentiful reserve to pull from.  But this week as I was wading through the links to send out to you, I stopped to ponder this post of why Lezleigh runson her blog Nothing to Lose - Everything to Prove.  

After reading it, I felt like it needed to stand on its own this week.  

Here is an excerpt of what she wrote on 9-11.  Read it and then stop by her blog and give her some encouragement.

As stated in my first post, I run because of my hero, my brother Casey. It was eight years ago this day that our world changed...for better or for worse. Casey signed on into the Corps shortly after 9/11/01, and before we knew it he was shipping out for the initial invasion into Iraq...and before we knew it we were bringing him home, broken, from Iraq.

9/11 is not a good day for our family. It's not a good day for alot of families.

I wake up every morning to the towers falling. The reality of what we lost stares me in the face the moment my eyes open every day with my brother's legs gone. The reality of what the cost of freedom is, is there every moment, every waking breath I take.

Every day that I lace up my running shoes, I am lacing them up for my brother. He will never lace up another pair of shoes onto his feet again....let that sink in.....really sink in....never, EVER again. Every step I take, every mile I run, I draw upon my brother's strength.

I have NO EXCUSE to not use my legs. If my brother can keep on keepin' on, if he can hand-crank a marathon, what's my reason not to run? I hope that when I run I can bring awareness to the world the struggles of our heroes, ......

FREE STUFF Giveaway: New Balance Is Back With SHOES!

For this week's giveaway we welcome back New Balance!  And in celebration of fall running and the need for many runners to exit the roads for softer trail surfaces, New Balance is giving away a pair of the stability trail shoes - the 910!  And get this - you can win a pair before most runners can buy them!

This shoe isn't only a favorite for them, it is a becoming a quick favorite of trail runners.  With cutting- edge technologies and unique design, this technical trail runner is designed to provide cushioning and stability for the ultimate off-road enthusiast. Featuring waterproof GoreTex® Extended Comfort Footwear® lining, anti-freeze Abzorb® FL and ROCK STOP® to keep your feet comfortable in every season as you take on the trails!

I have been doing more trail running (and walking) lately.  With my personal experiences, I have quickly learned that my favorite running shoes aren't my favorite trail shoes.   They aren't water/trail grime proof, they are a bit too flexible and I can feel every stick and rock I stumble upon.   I have been very hesitant to pick up a trail shoes because I was uncertain if there was enough of a technical difference to make the spend worthwhile.  And then the bigger issue was that I didn't know what to shop for or look for in a trail shoe. 

Shane Downey from New Balance joined me on a podcast to take me through the technical dimensions of a trail shoe and trail gear.   In just a few minutes he helped me understand the key components to look for in my trail running shoe including the rigidty, traction pattern, "rock stop", GORETEX uppers, toe bumpers and antifreeze midsoles.  It was just the education I need to be an more informed shoe buyer.

If you are thinking about your next trail shoe purchase, download the podcast and give it a listen.   I love Shane's energy and passion for running products and the ease in which he gives a tutorial on running products.  It's like having a friend in the shoe business.  :}

PODCAST:  Download New blance trail shoe

To be eligible for this giveaway, just stop by the forum and leave your response to this question: 

What is the best running advice you have given or passed along?

Winner announced September 21st.

 

 

Extra, Extra - Run All About It

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Dear readers, let's take a look back at the week in running:

* As reported on Citizen.com (Laconia, NH) on September 10th, the Belknap County sheriff's department may be in for a holly jolly Christmas indeed. This week, the Belknap County Administrator received permission to apply for a Primex Wellness grant in order to purchase a $7,800 treadmill for its sheriff's department's exercise room. Should the Administrator receive the grant from Primex, an insurance company funded by local government, it will have until December 31, 2009 to make the purchase. Should the county not be awarded the grant, I would advise all truck drivers carrying exercise equipment to maintain all local highway laws while passing through the county. I know that, if I had lost my access to the use of my apartment building's gym's treadmill, I would go to great lengths in acquiring an alternative treadmill.

* As reported in the Daily News (New York, NY) on September 10th, marathon organizers around the world might want to think about revising their rules and regulations regarding the allocation of prize money to the respective winners of their marathons. While the New York Marathon awards $130,000 to the winner of the men's division and the women's division, there doesn't seem to be any language that deals with the situation where the winner of the men's division and the women's division is...the same person! After South African runner, Caster Semenya, dominated the women's 800-meter competition in the Berlin World Championships a few weeks ago, the International Association of Athletics Federations took the unusual step of ordering tests to be conducted on Semenya to see whether she was, in fact, a woman. After weeks of testing to answer a seemingly obvious question, it seems that Semenya is indeed a woman. But, the tests concluded that she is also...a he. The man-woman Semenya, who is what is known as a hermaphrodite (one having both male and female organs), despite the possibility of having her/his gold medal stripped, remains upbeat and positive, "God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I'm proud of myself".

* As reported in the Los Angeles Times on August 12th, while he may have played a poker card shark, an uber-intelligent psycho-killer and a huge green hulking Hulk, unfortunately Edward Norton has never played a role in any of his excellent movies that will help him in November's New York Marathon. Nevertheless, the actor will be running the big apple's big racing event with three Massai warriors in their effort to raise awareness and money for the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, a Kenya-based conservation organization. Given the fact that the "Maasai often run for days, holding spears and shields to protect their cattle from lions. They also hunt lions for food", there is little doubt that running a marathon will be a simple act for them. Norton, on the other hand, noted that, "I've never run a marathon before and the difficulty of it is both intimidating and motivating, especially when it's for a cause like this". While Ed Norton may be nervous for November's big day, at least he will know that, should a lion escape from the Central Park Zoo, he will be safe and secure with his Massai warrior teammates!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Next Weekend's Marathons

Saturday, September 19th
Air Force Marathon (Dayton, OH)
Arkansas Marathon (Benton, AR)
Equinox Marathon (Fairbanks, AK)
Kroll's Diner ND RoughRider Marathon (Bismarck, ND)
North Country Trail Marathon (Manistee, MI)
Odyssey Trail Marathon (Millboro, VA)
Lake Chelan Shore To Shore Marathon (Chelan, WA)
Timberline Marathon (Government Camp, OR)
NordicTrack Top Of Utah Marathon (Logan, UT)

Sunday, September 20th
Adirondack Marathon (Schroon Lake, NY)
Boulder Backroads Marathon(Boulder, CO)
Community First Fox Cities Marathon (Appleton, WI)
Maui Marathon (Maui, HI)
Montana Governor's Cup Marathon (Billings, MT)
Yonkers Department Of Parks, Recreation & Conservation Yonkers Marathon (Yonkers, NY)

By  Peter Washkowitz

Open Mic Friday: Meet Stuart at Quadrathon

 

Most runners ease into the mileage and distances they run.  Today's guest went from 0 to 100 mile races (nearly) in about two years.  We recognize that not everyone is interested or capable of running 50 - 100 mile races, let alone the training to prepare.  But there's something intriguing and curious about ultra runners, so we're delighted to introduce you to Stuart or SLB Plus whose blog is known as Quadrathon

Welcome Stuart!

Before you provide us your running background, you have some late-breaking news to share.

Yes, I got an email from the Angeles Crest 100 Race Director last Tuesday (9/1) announcing the race had been canceled! As you may have seen on the news there is a massive fire in the Angeles National Forest; currently 160,000 acres have burned. Putting aside the air quality issue, from looking at the maps the fire has impacted the last 30 miles of the course. This is only the second time in over 20 years that the race has been cancelled the first was in 2002 also due to a fire. After some suggestions and research I am now heading to Oregon to run the 100 in the Hood, the race is based in the Mt. Hood National Forest and runs along sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. Timing-wise it’s great as it’s just the weekend after AC100 was scheduled and I am really excited to be running on the PCT.

What was your first reaction when you learned about the race?

To be honest I initially felt numb; for personal reasons including the 3 months of training and being away from my family that I had invested and for broader reasons; the damage to the forest, the long term impact and the cost.  As the reporting of the fire has unfolded my reaction has turned to anger; Authorities are now looking for suspects as they consider the fire to be a result of arson, additionally two firefighters were killed so the is a pending charge of homicide.

An ultra is beyond most runners’ imaginations.  What moves you to run and compete beyond the marathon distance?

I get asked this a lot and I have yet to really come up with an answer that satisfies the question. Part of it is to see just how far I can go; the body is an amazing thing and we really only scratch the surface of our capabilities. Part of it is that Ultra races are typically on the trails so I get to see some amazing scenery and I get to cover it faster than if I was hiking and to be honest doing something that starts with ‘Ultra’ always sounded pretty cool to me!

Besides the endurance, what else is challenging about a 50 mile race? 

Hydration and fueling can be an issue, remembering to eat and sometimes forcing your self to can be hard; I set my watch to beep during every hour to remind me. The elements can be a real issue, I have raced in the mid 80s and recently I’ve been training in temperatures exceeding 100f which can really take its toll, I  have to carry a lot of fluid and that adds to the weight and for long training runs I plan where to stash supplies on the route, usually where there is a road crossing. I seem to have a lot more gear compared to road racing; I have a race vest with a bladder and one without a bladder, handheld bottles in two sizes and although not always needed trail shoes are advisable, as well as my trusty gaiters. Conversely my DNF last year at Twin Peaks 50m was the result of being caught in an ice storm without the right wet weather gear; it was in my drop bag! Drop bags can be an oasis in the storm (literally) and usually contain some ‘favorite’ things; bars, drinks etc as well as essentials – dry warm clothes, waterproofs, extra shoes etc.

Describe the effort and toll a 50 mile race takes on the body and spirit compared to a marathon.

That’s a really hard question to answer. I’ve been lucky not have had any major issues physically; in 8 ultra-marathon starts I have only had 1 small blister, I did have some GI issues at the last one but I muddled through them for 15 miles and it got better. As with any long race you know you’re going to have highs and lows, just remembering that makes things go easier, and you know that you’ll always get a boost of support from at next aid station, (AS Volunteers are the best). As long as you are moving forward you’re still in the game; I had some rubber bracelets made up that I have given to friends that completed their first Ultra inscribed on one side with “Relentless Forward Motion” and on the other with “TTP-TPR” which stands for Tough Times Pass – Tough People Remain, so I try to remember that when I am at a low point. My DNF still haunts me.

For those who aren’t familiar with your blog or training schedule, what does a typical week of training look like when you’re preparing for a 50 mile race?   For a 100 mile race?

For my 50 mile races I have in the past broken my training out into three phases; base, speed and taper.

Base; 8 weeks:
Three runs a week Mon, Wed, Fri
Two road bike rides a week Tues and Thurs
Long rides alternating with long runs at the weekend
Long trail runs max out at around 31 miles (usually a 50k race) and then I back-to-back that with another run the next day of 10-15 miles. Back to back runs are a staple for Ultra runners (much like a ‘brick’ is for a triathelete),
Bike mileage maxes out at about 100 miles for a long ride and 30 miles for each midweek ride

Speed: 6 weeks
For the speed segment Wednesday’s and Friday’s runs become a tempo run and a set of intervals; I use the workouts and pace charts from the Run Faster Run Less book which is based on the FIRST program
My long rides are replaced with long runs so I am running long each weekend, with a back to back run on the next day

Taper; 2 weeks
I try to just wind down, although sometimes it falls off a cliff! I need to be more disciplined with my taper!

For my 100 miler I extended the base phase by two weeks, removed the speed work and have a three week taper. My longest training weeks were just under 80 miles running and 160 miles cycling; not in the same week though! Specific ultra training plans are few and far between so I end up basing it upon my previous training plans. With hindsight this was too long in duration for me, my body and mind start to break down around the 3 month mark of hard training, so this time I am having to really focus to have a good taper.

What foods make a difference in the diet of an ultra runner?

Unlike most races where you get water or Gatorade, Ultra Aid Stations tend to be self serve buffets, I have to confess that I often start hit the Coke or Sprite about half way through a race; around mile 25-30 at least; I think it’s the carbonation that cleans my palette, 4-5 hours of gel etc kills your tastebuds! It’s not unusual to see boiled potatoes that you dip into a bowl of salt, M&Ms, trail mix, pretzels and whole variety of fare! I have my favorites which inc PB&Nutella sandwiches and I have also had success with Ensure and Fig Newmans, tempting as it is though the usual maxim of don’t try it on race day always applies, I’ve seen plenty of people over indulge and pay the price further up the trail!

What’s your average pace (range) for a 50 mile race?

Not fast is the best way describe it; looking back at some of my race splits I have 7 minute miles and 20 minute miles in the same race. My 50 mile PR average pace is something around a 13:30, I tend to think of things in terms of speed when racing so 5mph is good, 6mph is great and 3mph is a bad day, Due to the terrain and the amount of uphill walking pacing is almost an impossible metric to use unless you’re constantly running the same course.

Any quirky running traits?

Not really quirky but I nearly always carry a camera with me, I try to document each run photographically if I can, the scenery is so good it would almost be a crime not to

What have you not done with your running that you’re still looking forward to?

Other than first the 100 mile finish and one day running the WSER100 I am hoping to run a relay next year and I would like to do a multi day stage race like the Trans-Rockies Run or Marathon des Sables

What gets you excited about running?

I like to run in the morning early so once the initial shock wears off I know it’s going to set me up for the day, things always look better after a run.

What’s your secret to running success?

I am a positive thinker and I try to not let the distances freak me out, once you get beyond 20 miles it’s just a case of running one mile at a time.

Favorite race?

Oh good question and a hard one to answer. I have to say that any race that is organized by the Pacific Crest Trail Runners, (www.pctr.com). They are really well organized and the courses are challenging and fun without the pressure of a ‘race’. They usually have various distances ranging from an 10k upwards; so it’s a great introduction to trail running and Sarah the RD has a hug for every finisher! Favorite distance? Right now the 50k; I had a really good couple of races earlier in the year and I am starting to feel I can actually ‘race’ at this distance. In the two years I have shaved an hour off my 50k PR.

Greatest running accomplishment?

Finishing my first 50 miler, I really had no idea what to expect and I discovered that it was so much longer than a 50k; I am expecting the same revelation later this month also when I step up to the 100 mile mark

Current running goals? Right now I am pretty focused; a sub 11 hour 50 miler and/or complete a 100 mile race – all roads lead to a Western States 100 qualification, and then it’s up to the lottery. Off the trails I am kicking around the idea of trying for a sub 3:00 marathon next year.

Non- running and non-blogging interests?

Just hanging out with my family is great, my wife and I have two boisterous boys so there’s not a lot of room for other interests. By day I work in IT as a Project Manager so I like technology and I am always looking to improve my professional capabilities through training and courses etc.

Who are some of your virtual running friends you would like to meet up and run with?

Oh there are so many, there are people; from the Nike+ forums; which was my first foray into the run.net community, to the folks who read my blog and whose blogs I read and fellow podcasters. Most recently with Twitter that group just increased and keeps growing. There are seriously so many it would be unfair to list them. I have been fortunate enough to meet a few online friends and I’ll be meeting some more who have generously agreed to crew/pace me at 100 in the Hood

Where does the name Quadrathon come from?

It’s originally the name of a challenge on the Nike+ website that was started nearly three years ago. It consists of a mile, a 5k, a 10k and the most miles run in a month with points awarded and an monthly winner announced in the forums.. I took over running the challenge two years ago and it’s probably the oldest one still running since Nike+ went live. Originally the Quadrathon blog was based on those challenges but over time it became my own and the focus shifted from my running to trail running to ultra running. Although once based on the four Nike+  challenges it’s now about the challenge of finding the balance between another four things; family, work life and ultra-running   

Most embarrassing running moment?

Up until a couple of weeks ago that would have been a tricky question, but having fallen over a man hole cover and face planted I now have an answer! It was more painful to look at than it actually hurt. Falling over on a main road and getting a ride home from a kind driver who stopped – well I just felt embarrassed by the whole event!

If money could buy you a running dream, what would it be?

I would actually like to start a running mentor group to try and help combat the increasing obesity pandemic. Beyond the great circle of friends I have, both online and offline and the sense of achievement from racing etc it is fundamentally at its most basic element something I do that keeps me healthy and that’s something I would like to share.

Favorite running shirt?

I have a couple of turn-tos, a fellow blogger (Robin from Gotta Run Gotta Ride) sent me a “Run in Greeenville, South Carolina” shirt made by Brooks I’ve never been to SC so it always makes my smile and the shirt model is “London”, which is my home town, I have a Nike shirt with “Miler” written across it – I like the irony of that one! From a practical standpoint I love my Hammer Nutrition shirt; it’s like wearing silk.

Best running advice you’ve ever been given?

Never make any decision about your next race when running uphill or downhill or while in the car!

Best running advice you’d like to share?

Training will get you most places, maybe not as fast as you want but certainly to the finish line. There are lots of great quotes by people far more eloquent about the subject than I but realistically if you make the investment you’ll reap the reward, basically distilled down it’s; Train Hard – Race Easy!

Oh you’ll only ever forget the Bodyglide and Suncream once!

Thank you, Stuart!

Do you know a runner you would recommend for Open Mic Friday?

Pass along their name, contact info, and some background and we'll explore introducing them to the Runners' Lounge Community.

Send your suggestions to Tom@runnerslounge.com or Amy@runnerslounge.com

Take It and Run Thursday: Spectator Tips

This week's Take It and Run Thursday is sponsored by is KLETCO from the blog by the same name. 

Her question for next week:

Now that we're heading into the fall and winter marathon seasons, and we've talked a lot about how to prepare for races, let's talk about spectators.  What do you like and dislike from spectators out on a course?  Are cowbells good or bad?  Do you prefer to have someone waiting with food or gatorade?  What tips can you give for people who are just out to watch the race and not participate?

Jump on over to the article to leave a link to your name and url and your great advice for KLETCO.

But before you do, take a few minutes to learn more about her running in Baltimore, running with her training group, and some of her memorable races by watching her slide show.

For Next Week:

And after you help out KLETCO with her question and catch upon her running, start thinking about next week's question.  Our sponsor is Jillian, from the blog Finishing is Winning and she brings a great question to the Lounge:

You get to run the last six miles of your next marathon with 6 different people.  They can be dead or alive; famous or not famous.  Who are these people and why did you pick them?  Furthermore, why did you pick them for the specific mile you did?  Remember, you get an extra .2miles with runner #6.

Running On Food: Pizza Pasta

This article is part of a new series on Nutrition for Runners.   Heather from the blog, Trials of Training, has offered her expertise in Nutrition to runners in the Lounge to pass along information on recipes, nutrition, and running/food related questions.  She has her BS in Nutrition from Penn State, she is currently working to be a Registered Dietician, and is a loves to help runners with their questions.

Past articles can be found in the Nutrition and Hydration section and Recipe section in the Lounge.

by Heather

While searching for some new recipes, I unexpectedly found something that could be Great pre-run/race fuel. This dish combines two “carb-load” favorites; pizza and pasta! I’ve been known to have both on my plate on race-eve…..but doing it this way is a little more creative.

 

The original recipe is courtesy of KraftFoods.com, the Perfect Pasta Pizza.

 

With this combination you’re getting a meal full of carbohydrates and protein, and low in fat. It’s also a good source of Iron and Calcium! I’m tweaking this a little bit to include the toppings that I prefer. Feel free to do the same! Pasta and pizza are great dishes because the more creative you are, the better it tastes. 

 

Pasta Pizza Recipe

1/2 lb. spaghetti, uncooked

1/2 lb. extra-lean ground beef (could also use bone-less, skin-less chicken breast)

1 egg, beaten

1/4 cup fat-free milk

1 can (14 oz.) no-salt-added tomato sauce

1 pkg  (0.8 oz.) Garlic & Herb Dressing Mix

1 cup 2% Milk Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

* ½ c purple onion, sliced
* ½ c green pepper, sliced
* ½ c mushrooms, sliced

 

*add whatever veggies you like!

 

Heat oven to 350°F. Cook spaghetti in large saucepan as directed on package, while browning meat in a skillet. Drain spaghetti; return to pan. Add egg and milk; toss to coat. Spread onto bottom of 12-inch pizza pan sprayed with cooking spray. Stir tomato sauce and dressing mix into meat; spread over spaghetti. Top with cheese. Add additional toppings as desired.  Bake 20 to 25 min. or until crust is set and cheese is melted.

Nutrition Info (using original recipe):

Calories: 430
Carbohydrate: 54g
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 9g (Saturated Fat: 4.5 g)
Caclium: 45% Daily value
Iron: 25% Daily Value

Why You Run...

More links to enjoy - give me a shout out at amy@runnerslounge.com if you see others around the blogosphere that deserve to be shared.

• Why does SMO run?, "The main reason is health and mobility."  As we get older, running keeps us active.  Amen.
• Penny shares her thoughts and pictures [awesome!] of why she runs.  She shares with us, "How does running help me as a teacher? It puts me in the right frame of mind as I enter the day."  Isn't that so true?  How have your mornings been better when a run came first?
• MindyB wrote these thoughts about her running, "My love for running was revived today. Summer weather drives a wall between me and my running shoes every year. Sure, you can make it work out for a little while but once the humidity becomes unbearable I begin to reconsider my commitment to the sport. Today, we have reconciled our relationship...at least until July."   Can't say I disagree.  There is something about Fall running which makes running more perfect.