Charlotte Running Club

RELAY FOR THE RATLIFFS 2-17 Uptown Charlotte

2012-02-14T12:42:00.002-08:00

Looking for some miles and want to support a good cause while doing it? Give this a try.

RELAY FOR THE RATLIFFS INFORMATION
Date: Friday, February 17th
Location: Wells Fargo Outdoor Plaza (by fountain near Hilton/Wells Fargo
One)

Time: 5:00am to 8:30pm

RULES
1) Participants must donate at least $20
a) Participants may solicit flat donations
b) Donations need to be collected by participant and brought to check
c) Cash donations are requested; however, checks are to be made to
“CureSearch”
2) Participants select at least 1 time zon
a) Participants must check-in at least 10 minutes prior to their selected
time zone
b) Participants must check out once they are finished running
c) Participants may run multiple laps; must indicate this below
3) Pink Baton Challenge
a) The pink baton will be carried by one runner during the entire relay
b) The participant who raises the most money in a particular time zone
will carry the baton
c) Each time zone will have a designated baton carrier
4) Running Course
a) See the course on next page
b) It is each individual participant’s responsibility to know the course
c) There are no water stations on the course; each participant must
supply their own water

Questions? Contact Tim Ferguson at 980-263-0750 or fergustm@gmail.com

2012 NC USATF - Endurance Magazine Long Distance Running Championship Series

2012-02-08T14:44:00.001-08:00

The2012 North Carolina USATF -Endurance Magazine Long Distance Running Championship Series will kick offMarch 17 with the the Equinoxalizer 4 Miler.

The series which features nineevents from the mile to the marathon spread across

the state of North Carolina willoffer $25,000 in total prize money to eligible NC-USATF members. So mark yourcalendar and make sure your membership (2012) is up-to-date.

Check out the NC-USATF insert inthis months (Feb) Endurance Magazine which will feature a review of last year'sseries and announce the 2011 NC-USATF – Endurance Magazine Long DistanceRunners of the Year.

If you are an elite athleteplease use the contact information below to inquire about standards for eliteentry status, but remember these spots are limited so please contact theappropriate individual in a timely manner.

North Carolina USATF - Endurance Magazine

2012 Long Distance Running Championship Series

Competitors in the Series will accumulate points* towards thetitle of

NC-USATF– Endurance Magazine Long Distance Runner of the Year

To beeligible for USATF awards, athletes must be a current NC USATFMember

anda 12 month resident of North Carolina

4 Mile - The Equinoxalizer 4 Miler

Date: March 17, 2012 8:00AM

http://sportoften.com/events/eventDetails.cfm?pEventId=7992

318 Blackwell St. Durham, NC - next to DPAC

For invited runner status please contact Mike Moverman at mam105@duke.edu or 508-631-8893

NC-USATF Prize Money: $2000

Overall Male and Female: 1st - $500, 2nd - $300, 3rd - $100

Masters Male and Female: 1st - $100

10mile – Wells Fargo Tar Heel 10 Miler

April 21, 2012 7:30 AM – Chapel Hill NC

http://www.tarheel10miler.com/

For invited athlete status contact: Andrew Allden aacoaching@aol.com

NC-USATF Prize Money: $2,000

Open: 1^st - 400,2^nd - $200, 3^rd - $100,

Masters: (Men and Women): 1^st $150, 2^nd$100, $50

10K – The Capital City Classic –5th Annual - Special Anniversary Edition

May 12th, 2012 - Raleigh, NC

Downtown Raleigh

http://www.capitalcityclassic10k.com

For invited runner statuscontact: Keith Mathis – keith@athleticsnative.com

Up to 5 elite athletes will becomped per gender. Commitment to race must

be communicated asap but no laterthan May 1st,

2012. NC-USATF Prize Money:$2,500

Open (Men and Women): 1st -$500, 2nd - $300, 3rd - $150, 4th - $100, 5th- $50

Masters: (Men and Women): 1st$100, 2nd $50

8K - Running of the Bulls8K

Saturday, June 2, 2012 7:15 AM

Durham Athletic Park, Durham NC

http://www.bullcityrunning.com/events/running-of-the-bulls-8k/

For invited runner statuscontact: Jason Page bullcityrunning@gmail.com

NC-USATF Prize Money: $2,500

Open: 1^st -$500, 2^nd - $300, 3^rd - $150, 4^th -$100, 5^th - $50

Masters: (Men and Women): 1^st $100,2^nd $50

5K Beat the Heat 5K

Date: July 21, 2012 7:00 PM

Location: WFU BB&T Field –Winston-Salem NC

http://www.twincitytc.org

For invited runner status contact: ER Ralston - erralston@yahoo.com 336-749-7008

Note: USATF Championship entry deadline is July 18, 2012,

NC-USATF Prize Money: $2500 & $1500 in WAVA age graded.

Open: 1^st -$500, 2^nd - $300, 3^rd - $150, 4^th - $100, 5^th- $50

Masters: (Men and Women): 1^st $100, 2^nd $50

10K Trail Championships –Continental Divide Trail Race

August 25, 2012 - Men9:00 AM & Women 10:15 AM – Laurel Springs NC

www.continentaldividetrailrace.com

This race also serves at theUSATF National 10K Trail Championship as wells as the State Trail Championship

For elite athlete info contact: Alison Bryant continentaldividetrailrace@yahoo.com.

National Championship PrizePurse: $5,000

National Championship Open: 1^st -$700, 2^nd - $500, 3^rd - $350, 4^th -$200, 5^th - $100

National Championship Masters: 1^st -$350, 2^nd - $200, 3^rd - $100

NC USATF State Prize Money: $1200

Open: 1^st -$250 2^nd - $150, 3^rd - $100

Masters: (Men and Women): 1^st $100

Mile – The Magnificent Mile Race

September 16, 2012 2 PM – Raleigh, NC

www.magmilerace.com

For invited runner status, contact Sarah Witt at srwitt@yahoo.com or919-848-0582.

NC-USATF Prize Money – $3000

Open M/F: 1st - $350, 2nd - $250, 3rd - $200

Masters M/F: 1st - $200, 2nd - $150

Grand Masters M/F: 1st - $200, 2nd - $150

Half Marathon – Rex Healthcare Half Marthon

November 4, 2012 7:00 AM – Raleigh NC

http://cityofoaksmarathon.com/race_info/

For invited runner status contact Ron Wahula - Ron@CityofOaksMarathon.com or phone 919-270-0365

NC-USATF Prize Money: $5,000

Open (Men & Women): 1^st-$1000, 2^nd - $500, 3^rd - $300, 4^th- $200

Masters (Men & Women): 1^st -$250, 2^nd$150, 3^rd -$100

Marathon – OBX Marathon

November 11, 2012 7:20 AM - Outer Banks – Kitty Hawk to Manteo NC

http://www.obxmarathon.org

For invited runner status contact Jim Snyder - elite@obxse.org or phone 252-255-6273

More than $25,000 total prize money in the Marathon and HalfMarathon

NC-USATF Prize Money: $5,000

Open (Men & Women): 1^st-$1000, 2^nd - $500, 3^rd - $300

Masters (Men & Women): 1^st -$400, 2^nd$200, 3^rd -$100

*Top Three finishes score 3--2-1.Male and Female. Open and Masters.

Andrew Allden

aacoaching@aol.com

Cell 919-619-3426

AA Elite Coaching Ltd.

USATF East Coast Coordinator Level I Coaching Education

NC-USATF Men's LDR Chair

HPC Elite Coach

CRC "Pilot" Mileage Program presented by TrySports - Jan. Summary

2012-02-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

The CRC "Pilot" Mileage Program presented by TrySports results for January have arrived. We had 130 members report their mileage for the month which totaled 6261.9 miles. Over these 130 individuals the average mileage per person is 48.16 miles.

Now, we are on to Feb. so keep knocking down those miles.

Happy Running,

Bill

CRC Member	Jan. Mileage	Total Mileage
Adam Mayes	208	208.0
Adam Mull	122.33	122.3
Alex Wernikoff	31.9	31.9
Allen Strickland	156.1	156.1
Allison Reed	177.76	177.8
Andrea Beigay	5.0	5.0
Andrew Bishop	130.6	130.6
Andrew Fletcher	101.5	101.5
Andrew Swistak	175.0	175.0
Anna Donlan	303.3	303.3
Anne Marie Martin	142.2	142.2
Ashley Warren	66.7	66.7
Audrey Ashkin	76	76.0
Ben Dyke	68.1	68.1
Ben Hovis	248.3	248.3
Ben Huffman	149.0	149.0
Bill Shires	244.7	244.7
Billy Morton	50	50.0
Billy Shue	277.0	277.0
Bjørn Erik Norman	206	206.0
Bob Drury	90.8	90.8
Brad Popple	21.0	21.0
Butch Holt	178	178.0
Caitlin Chrisman	222.9	222.9
Caleb Boyd	273.1	273.1
Carl Patty	43.5	43.5
Chad Crockford	48.4	48.4
Chris Jones	236.0	236.0
Chris Lamperski	184.1	184.1
Christi Carter	51.0	51.0
Chuck Player	148.3	148.3
Colby Schwartz	42.6	42.6
Daniel Matena	239.7	239.7
Daniel Norton	121	121.0
Danielle Crockford	267.7	267.7
Dave Knavel	84.2	84.2
David Brinkley Jr	163.17	163.2
David Dye	428.9	428.9
David Forest	236	236.0
David Przybyla	106.0	106.0
Deb Rubinich	155.8	155.8
Dennis Livesay	243	243.0
Emily Barrett	152.6	152.6
Gordon Bynum	184.9	184.9
Jacky Olin	53	53.0
Jacob Dordick	308.1	308.1
Jade Laughlin	76	76.0
Jamaar Valentine	171.2	171.2
James Haycraft	261.8	261.8
Jason Benoit	103	103.0
Jason Benoit	10.0	10.0
Jason Blackwood	181	181.0
Jason Chalmers	139	139.0
Jason Fish	11.9	11.9
Jason Holder	339.9	339.9
Jason Martin	152.5	152.5
Jason Meulemans	202.4	202.4
Jen Marcus	146	146.0
Jinnie Austin	90.0	90.0
Jocelyn Sikora	104.1	104.1
Joe Schlereth	410	410.0
John Compton	277.8	277.8
John Fernandez	10.7	10.7
John Fyfe	55.1	55.1
Jonathan Wise	111.61	111.6
Jonathon Halter	212	212.0
Josh Lemke	191.6	191.6
Joshua Kollmann	150.59	150.6
Justin Breland	142.7	142.7
Justin Gutierrez	351.0	351.0
Kara Colucci	39	39.0
Kara Colucci	16.0	16.0
Karen Brown	85.76	85.8
Karin Helmbrecht	130.8	130.8
Kathi Russo	216.3	216.3
Kathy Rink	35.0	35.0
kathy seavers	156.5	156.5
Kelly Rusk	21	21.0
Kevin Ballantine	112.6	112.6
Kevin Lisska	131.1	131.1
Lana Torkildsen	106	106.0
Lat Purser	82.8	82.8
Laura Gray	120	120.0
Lauren Taylor	121	121.0
Lauren Tilton	27.1	27.1
Lindsey Hikes	330.7	330.7
Lisa Costa	100.2	100.2
Mark Mcgeough	163	163.0
Mark Smith	248	248.0
Maureen Hoffmann	148.3	148.3
Megan Hovis	462.5	462.5
Melanie Becker	63	63.0
melinda law	83.7	83.7
Michael Downing	107.4	107.4
Michael Kahn	199	199.0
Michael McWhirter	260.6	260.6
Michael Miller	137.4	137.4
Michael Vance	186	186.0
Mike Beigay	141.1	141.1
Mike Mitchell	280.9	280.9
Mike Schutman	121.2	121.2
Mike Slaney	117.2	117.2
Mike Taylor	93	93.0
Paul Mainwaring	290.3	290.3
Randall Bard	72.8	72.8
Reeves Davis	52.5	52.5
Rob Ducsay	190.1	190.1
Rob Gannett	41.1	41.1
Sarah Hannon-Iwanusa	48.4	48.4
Sheila Olds	61.0	61.0
Sommer Baucom	133.0	133.0
Sonja Earnest	45.3	45.3
Stacy Langston	51.4	51.4
Stan Austin	158.0	158.0
Stephen Spada	312.8	312.8
Steven Holman	25.6	25.6
Susan Sutherland	74.78	74.8
Tim Baucom	130.4	130.4
Todd Capitano	130.7	130.7
Tom Patania	103	103.0
Tom Patch	182	182.0
Tom Ricks	133.6	133.6
Tom Torkilden	168	168.0
Tracy D Rabon	23.3	23.3
Troy Eisenberger	51.4	51.4
Valerie Matena	231	231.0
Walt Guyer	231.3	231.3
William Kennedy	79.9	79.9
William Weimer	102	102.0

CRC "Pilot" 1000 Mile Program presented by TrySports

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

Theend of the month is nearing and the time for counting up our miles is nearlyupon us.

presented by

Thatbeing said, I wanted to give everyone a status update on our club mileageprogram.

TrySportshas agreed to come on board and be the sponsor for this program. They will beproviding the end of year 1000 mile awards. In addition, we will combine withthem to hold quarterly social/group runs from the store and follow it up with ameet and greet afterwards. The dates and times for these social/group runs willbe announced soon so please be on the lookout for them. We will also hold theend of year awards social at the store where those CRC members reaching 1000miles will receive their award. Most likely,the date for this will be in early January since we will need to run the Decembermileage totals before finalizing the list of 1000 mile award achievers.

Onthe logging front, make sure your January training logs are updated because Iwill be pulling the totals from athleticore on 2/1/2012. I will also bechecking the run.charlotte.miles@gmail.comfor those that wish to submit their totals by email.

Caitlin is to let me knowthe cut-off date so if it is possible, I will strive to submit our mile programsummary for the news letter before the January issue goes out.

Allquestions are welcome and can be sent to the run.charlotte.miles@gmail.com.

GoodLuck and log those miles.

Charlotte Running Club to Host Corporate Cup YMCA Preview Runs

2012-01-22T16:31:00.000-08:00

Signed up or thinking about the Corporate Cup Half Marathonon March 10^th? Come tour thecourse with Charlotte Running Club to meet fellow runners and get familiar withthe course.

The preview runs are:

FREE and ALL PACES are welcome.
We will divide up in to paces with designatedpace leaders.
Maps that runners can carry will be provided.
Water and restrooms will be provided.
An opportunity to learn more about the Y, therace, and Charlotte Running Club
Get in a great Saturday am run

DATES

February 18 7:30am (Saturday) – first half of the course

March 3 7:30am (Saturday) – second half of the course

The branch opensat 7:30am and folks can gather in the lobby. RUN STARTS PROMPTLY AT 7:45am Park in the One Wells Fargo deck and we willvalidate tickets at the front desk http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/branches/childressklein/facilities/directions.aspx

CorporateCup Race Information and Registration can be found online at:

http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/branches/childressklein/socialresp/events/corpcup/overview.aspx

Volunteers, volunteers, volunteers! Can’t run on the 10^th?Injured? Please consider volunteering asa course monitor with Charlotte Running Club. Help keep the course safe and cheer on the competitors. Volunteer information at: http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/branches/childressklein/socialresp/events/corpcup/volunteer.aspx

CRC “Pilot” 1000 Mile Program

2012-01-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

Running is a sport that by in large exist only in the shadows of our communities. We as runners for the most part exercise in the predawn hours or after dusk when our family chores have been completed. Thus much of what we do exist far away from eyes of the rest of the world – unknown and unrecognized.

But this doesn’t have to be the case. This is why I pushed for our club to create a mileage program and volunteered to lead it this year. Our club members work hard and play hard. For all of those hours spent putting one foot in front of another there needs to have some acknowledgment - light shined on it.

So I encourage all of our members to participate in this program by submitting your miles. All the information about the program is contained below. However, if there are still questions, feel free to email us at CRC Mileage Program.

Mile Program Information:

The Charlotte Running Club is proud to announce a new club benefit available to all club members – The "CRC Pilot Mileage Program” with a 1000 mile goal. The intention of this pilot program is to provide members with a purpose to help them further their passion for running during the 2012 year.

Mileage Program Rules:

- The mileage program is open to the entire club.
- An award will be given to each person reaching a documented 1000 miles (exact award TBD)
- Miles can only be accumulated between 1/1/2012 and 12/31/2012
- Miles can only be accumulated by running (There is no converting of swimming or cycling miles)
- An email will be sent to each club member as a reminder to submit their total monthly miles
- Running more than 1000 miles does not garner additional awards
- Achieving 1000 miles faster than someone else does not garner additional awards
- Club members using Athleticore will have their monthly mileage pulled automatically. Instruction for joining Athleticore are given below
- For members using other types of running logs, these club members will be responsible for submitting their miles via email to CRC Mileage Program.
- Mileage Totals will be included in the news letter and posted on the Charlotte Running Club Blog.
- A new end of year club social will be held. As part of this event, those individuals reaching the 1000 mile goal will receive their award (Location TBD).

Instructions for joining Athleticore

Step 1: go to Athleticore in your web browser.
Step 2: click ?Join in the top right corner
Step 3: fill in the information (DO NOT ENTER ANY TEAM INFO HERE)
Step 4: now log into the system with username and password
Step 5: click ?Teams on the top toolbar
Step 6: click ?Join Team on the left
Step 7: click ?join next to the 1st Charlotte Running Club name
Step 8: enter ?CRC as the password

Charlotte Running Club 2011 Survey Results

2012-01-05T14:13:00.000-08:00

Earlier this fall, we released a survey to assess the ways things are done at the Charlotte Running Club. One hundred seventy one members completed the survey, representing nearly 34% of the membership. Many thanks to those who took the time to share their thoughts because the feedback will help the CRC Board create a club that better meets your needs.

The 2011 Board reviewed results during two different meetings and agreed on action items for each result. Aaron Linz has compiled a summary of results along with any applicable board action plans. Before continuing, keep in mind that change is not sustainable without your involvement. This is your running club so while the board of directors will provide leadership, we need participation to realize measurable change. Please get involved and help grow our club together.

What is the top benefit to you personally of being in the club?

2.33 Group Runs

2.41 Motivated

2.63 Social Aspect

2.68 Newsletter

3.30 Running Store Discounts

The Board assumed that group runs would be our top benefit to members, and the results confirmed this. However, motivation followed closely behind. Members value the opportunity to read inspiring blogs and learn and share from other runners in the club. Seeing a member you run with at group runs finish a race in a fast time inspires members that they too can reach new heights. While group runs has been a priority of the board over the last two years, we recognize that some folks prefer to run on their own and/or that the group runs just do not fit particular schedules. However, connecting with to the club to stay motivated is a benefit.

We continue to add store discounts throughout the year. If the club is approached about a discount, we will happily share it with the entire membership. However, we are not openly soliciting discounts and/or driving better deals since this was ranked as 5th on the member benefits.

How many group runs do you attend a month?

41.5% 0 runs

23.4% 2-4 runs

21.1% 5+ runs

14.0% 1 runs

As members of the CRC Board, we will always encourage every member to attend at least one group run a month. At the core of a running club is simply running. There is no better way to share running with others than to attend a group run. Unfortunately, 41.5% of our members have not had this experience yet. Reasons for this were outlined in some of the comments on the survey, which amounted to the common theme of the Club not providing enough pace groups for all runners.

Our board continues to look at other successful running clubs throughout the country to see how we are doing versus our local counterparts. While we certainly have room for improvement in group runs, compared to other clubs, the CRC actually has a vast number of group runs offered at a variety of diverse locations. The Group Runs section on the website is indicative of this.

The results from the group run question highlights the importance of motivation being a benefit. If you can’t or are not interested in group runs, we want to continue to help motivate you to run on your own time.

How many CRC social events have you attended?

33.5% 0 socials

32.2% 2-4 socials

22.8% 1 social

11.1 5+ socials

We did not learn anything too interesting here. In the written section, it was suggested to have more events that do not involve alcohol. We also were asked to do a better job at communicating events with specifics directions to locations. In the future, we plan on addressing both of these concerns on Social Calendar for 2012. We currently leverage our CRC Facebook page heavily and try to get as many social event communications in the club newsletter. The 2011 family picnic was not as successful this year due to a rain storm that blew in just as the cook-out was getting started. The 2011 Holiday Lights Run is an alcohol free event and was very well attended. During our 2012 CRC mini Board retreat in January, we will plan and budget all our major social events for the year. Consistent with past socials, the Board has met several new members at social events that we have yet to see at group runs. Even if you’ve never joined a group run, you are welcome to stay plugged into the Club through social events.

Would you be interested in being a CRC mentor or mentee?

53.3% No Thanks

19.9% Both

18.1% Mentor

8.8% Mentee

We were getting ready in 2011 to roll out a mentor program but backed off and focused our attention elsewhere as a result of the responses. 53.3% are not interested and only 8.8% wanted to be a mentee. I guess you could say 28.7 are interested (mentee + both) so it will be brought up again by the 2012 board and prioritized accordingly with other 2012 goals.

Please select your preferences for purchasing running shoes and running related gear.

Run For Your Life

Charlotte Running Company

Online Shopping

TrySports

Inside-Out Sports

Omega Sports

Fleet Feet Sports

Congratulations to Run For Your Life for the top rating by CRC members. We are fortunate in Charlotte to have several excellent specialty running store options. Run For Your Life is the oldest and largest specialty running store in Charlotte area and is primarily focused just on running. Charlotte Running Company is the second oldest pure specialty running store in the area. Online shopping continues to be a competitor. While the stores offer terrific service, lower prices, free shipping, and free returns are some of the reasons CRC members said they choose to buy online. Keep in mind that the remaining stores do not just focus on running (triathlons, soccer, tennis, etc) and continue to build brand loyalty in the running-specific market. Thank you to all of the local specialty stores not only for your support for Charlotte Running Club but also for the race events you provide us and the products and services you offer.

Please select the CRC branded gear that you are interested in for the fall/winter.

Hoodie Sweatshirt – 48%

Long sleeve shirt - 46.1%

Running jacket - 31.6%

Winter hat - 27.6%

You asked and we delivered! If you do not have a CRC hoodie, get online and purchase one! They are terrific. We are selling cool and comfortable CRC long sleeves, running jackets and winter hats as well. We have received plenty of feedback regarding our CRC online store and have been working closely with our vendor to improve the shopping experience and selection.

What running products can you not find or want more of at our local running stores?

The results were all over the place. We did not see any consistent theme as either a positive or a negative.

What can the club do better?

We received 85 responses in total. There were plenty of positive responses shared which are appreciated, but the only way we can make a change is if we hear what’s not going right. Indeed, it seems that the only news is negative news. Perception is reality and despite the board’s ongoing focus to transform the perception of the Club, we still hear the terms “elitest”, “intimidated”, “slow”, “fast,” and “new runners” to describe the Club as a whole.

The Charlotte Running Club mission statement is to help people realize a true passion for running, whether it be through socials, group runs or volunteer events. As a refresher,

The Club motto is “A Passion for Running” which has can be realized by any pace runner. Our club mission is to:

1. Help members become more consistent

2. Motivate

3. Create a sense of camaraderie

4. Help members meet running goals

Each statement can be realized at any pace. We continue to welcome and encourage runners of all abilities and paces. If there is an underlying issue that the CRC Board is not aware of, please email us so that we can address as soon as possible. The Board is committed to seek out new opportunities to meet our mission and to increase the number of active members in the Club. Please carefully review the group runs on our website and if you attended a run that did not meet the expectations of what was stated, email us. We need to know as we put a lot of effort into our group run list. If you want to lead a group run, please let us know.

Another common theme addressed the posting on the CRC Facebook page. We encourage and put no constraints on what is posted to the Club page. As a result, what tends to happen is the members in the club who run 5+ times a week appear to dominate the group run discussions. Why? If you are running 5+ time a week, you are typically inclined to find someone to run with as it can get a bit lonely running 5 different runs on your own each week. Do not let this discourage you as the majority of our club membership is not in this category and I promise you from the feedback we get, there are plenty of 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15+ pace runners running anywhere from 3-10 miles looking for company as well. The 2012 Board will continue to focus on finding ways to get you running as again, we are a running club but help us help you with specific feedback so that we are putting our energy in the right programs.

Dalena’s Savannah GA Marathon Recap 2011

2011-12-24T08:46:00.000-08:00

Throughout my life I have always been active in sports and fitness but never really considered myself a “runner”.

My husband Rich and I along with our Yorkie-Poo Gita moved to Charlotte from Pennsylvania 6 years ago for warmer weather and jobs. During our first year in Charlotte I was asked by the doctor I worked for to train and run the Thunder Road 1/2 marathon. Not having any knowledge about long distance running, I agreed and this began my love for running. After a few years of running shorter distance I decided to join USA Fit and train for my first full marathon. I ran the Thunder Road Marathon in 2008 with a time of 3:21:39 . Though I was happy about finishing my first marathon and qualifying for Boston Marathon I was not pleased with my race. I hit the preverbial “wall” around mile 20 and struggled through the last 6 miles rotating between walking and running. I took a year off and decided to give it another go at the Marine Corp Marathon in 2010. This time I made it to mile 23 before crashing and again did the run/walk finish to a time of 3:17:55.

After 2 frustrating races, I was thinking of just running the Boston Marathon and calling it quits on the marathon distance. But then I met some amazing new running friends and my love for running grew deeper as we all decided to train for the first Savannah GA Rock’n Roll marathon. I became accustomed to the 4:30 am alarm and meeting at the Dowd YMCA by 5:15am to begin our early morning runs through Charlotte. I not only had great running partners but I also was being educated on proper training by a very knowledgable runner, Aaron Linz.

The week of the marathon had arrived and while sitting at dinner with my running girls and Aaron, we were given our race goals. When I was told that my race goal was to average a 6:40 pace which would put me right under a 2:55 marathon, I thought “but my previous PR is over 20 minutes slower than that!” Then I remembered some inspiring advise that Megan Nedlo had shared with me one day on a run. She said that you have to make up your mind that you can do it and then just go do it. Seemed pretty simple but that’s exactly what I had to do.

On the morning of the race, I got up early and went through my usual routine stretching, peanut butter toast with banana and double checking to make sure I had all my gear in my bag. Luckily Carolyn Maye, Jocelyn Sikora and I arrived at the shuttle stop early and made it to the start line with plenty of time to spare. After warming up and tossing off my old sweats, I was ready to go. It was calming to have so many fellow Charlotte runners by my side at the start line. The announcements were made and the Star Spangled Banner sung then finally it was go time! The gun fired and we were off on the 26.2 mile journey through Savannah.

I had made the decision prior to the race to wear my Garmin watch but not display my current pace. I wanted to run based on how I felt instead of pacing myself according to my watch. The first mile of any race can be a challenge and I knew I needed to relax and not destroy myself. As we approached the 1 mile marker my watch beeped showing a 6:39 pace. Right on! The next 6-7 miles I continued to work on settling in and getting my legs use to the 6:40min/mile pace. The cheering and crowd support was great in those first 12 miles but then it was time for us to split away from the half marathoners. We headed up onto the quiet and somewhat lonely interstate away from most of the crowd. Over the next 4 miles I continued to feel strong. I came to the realization that if I cheered for the bands and cheerleading/dance teams along the route they would cheer back even louder. So we continued this back and forth support for each other. I kept trucking along and began to notice that there was more and more distance between runners. I had only seen one other girl in front of me at that point. She began to struggle and I passed her around mile 15.

After training for the last 3 months with other runners, I have found that it can be difficult to keep your mind from taking over when you run alone. I knew that I had to remain positive and ignor any negative thoughts that ran through my mind. At one point, I remember thinking, “I have 9 miles to go, which is like a thursday morning Colville run with the gang. I can do this. I do it all the time!” Another challenge came as we headed back up onto the interstate at mile 21 into a strong headwind. It was at this point that I recalled some advise that Aaron Linz had given me. “At the end of a race, when you are tired, it hurts whether you slow down or keep pushing. So you might as well keep pushing, finish strong and feel proud of your race.” So right there, with the wind at my face and my legs starting to feel the last 22 miles, I made the decision to push it to the end.

As I turned the corner to the last mile I was met by a huge crowd of half marathoners finishing on my right. The runners and crowd cheered me on as I pushed my way up the slight incline. My legs were really burning and I was at the point that I didn’t know what was keeping them going. Then finally, I saw the metal gate that lead to the finish line. I was almost there! I turned the corner, heard my name announced “5th place overall female, Dalena Custer from Charlotte, NC!”. I glanced up as I crossed the finish line. 2:54:44! I had done it! I was exhausted, my legs were exhausted but I had finished the Savannah Rock’n Roll Marathon! My husband rushed over to congratulate me and we continued to cheer as the other Charlotte runners completed the race. My training had paid off and it was time to celebrate! After having 2 previously frustrating marathons, I was so thankful to finally have a strong marathon from start to finish.

The Throw Down in Motown - Justin Gutierrez Debut in Detroit

2011-12-11T18:57:00.000-08:00

It is said that sometime you have to remember where you came from in order to know where you are going. So it is through that lens that I try to make sense of the 2011 Detroit Free Press Marathon.

Background

I moved to Charlotte from Flint, Michiganin August of 2009. Upon my arrival Ihung up my running shoes vowing never to return. At that point I had run cross country, track and road races for 13 years. I guess anything you do for 13 years straight can become very cumbersome and at times, pointless. I needed a break. So from August 2009 until January 2011 I took that break. I might not have run more than 5 miles in a given WEEK but I did get my bench press up to 200lbs!

Fast forward to December 2010. At this point I had been inactive in the running scene for almost 18 months. I had days where I may or may not have missed running and competing but mostly it was a nostalgia that comes with looking at old trophies and plaques. So what got me out the door? Would you believe me when I said it was a commercial? To be more specific it was a Chrysler 300 commercial featuring Ndamukong Suh, defensive tackle of the

Detroit Lions (Wat ch Here).

The commercial tells the homecoming story of Suh that’s rooted in, “humble beginnings are true beginnings...”

I don’t know what it was about that commercial but I knew I had a responsibility to fulfill. As a city kid from a blue collar town like Flint I had a responsibility to myself, to my family, to all my former team-mates, coaches, and neighbors that invested hours upon hours of time in my training and racing as a high school and collegiate athlete. A responsibility to respect and honor the talents that I have been given. It was with that I found my old Nike Elite’s (best shoe ever), laced them up, and went for a run.

The Build Up

With the help of coach Mark Hadley of Maximum Performance Running I started training for my first marathon in January 2011. I had a great training schedule mapped out with goal mileage, goal races, and goal times. I was excited to get it all organized and laid out in front of me. To my surprise my body transitioned quite well back into full time training. I started week 1 at 50 miles. The plan was simple, 18 week build up to the Bayshore Half Marathon in Traverse City, Michigan then a 19 week build up to the Detroit Free Press Marathon. I figured since I took a full year off I needed to play all my cards right to avoid injury and also to make it an enjoyable experience. For the first time in my training I actually did my core, and stretched, and ice bathed and all those little things to help with recovery and maintenance. But what I carry the most pride in is that in these 38 weeks (18: Half, 1: Recovery, 19: Marathon) I missed 5 days of running with 3 of those days were during my recovery week! That consistency really allowed me to get up to speed.

I ran the Bayshore Half (May 2011) in 1:15:45. I hit my goal of a sub 1:16 but in the back of my mind I knew I had a loooong way to go (that time being 5ish minutes slower than my PR). With that I jumped into my 19 week Marathon cycle ready to hammer the miles and see what the marathon was all about.

I chose Detroit because it’s essentially my home-town and it’s been my family’s choice for marathoning debuts for about 20 years. So, 19 weeks came and went. I hit a few weeks of 80-85 miles and a longest long run of 22. Big thanks to Charlotte Running Club for being there on some of those training runs!

Race Day:

The Detroit Course is unique in that it runs into Canada on the Ambassador Bridge and comes back into the US through the Windsor Tunnel. Race morning went much smoother than I expected. Knowing the city quite well I was able to get downtown with ease. Race morning temps were in the high 40’s, perfect but I was not as enthused about the strong southwest wind and the possible rain that was on it’s way in. Oh well, everyone races in the same conditions.

Mile 1 - 4

What’s the best way to kill your chances to run well during your first marathon? Go out too fast! Fortunately the half marathon and full marathon start together. I rolled the dice and guessed that the top half-marathon women would get out too fast for these first few miles but those would be the paces I needed to hit to get out conservatively during the marathon. The bet payed off. I didn't see any splits for the first 4 miles but just tried to run relaxed and hold back.

4 mile split: 23:42, bam, right on pace. The bridge wasn't that bad…the way they had us approach it, it was a very steady manageable incline and i used the down hill to even out the split.

Miles 5 - 7 (5:43, 5:46, 5:45)

Welcome to Canada, eh? I must say, Canadians are pretty friendly. I was impressed with how many people were already lining the streets in Windsor to cheer the marathoners on. This part of the course is flat as a pancake as it follows the Detroit River. It was during these three miles that I had to make a choice about pace. Up to this point I was running with the lead half marath

on women and some mid front pack marathon men. I dropped the women but the guys I was running with started clipping off 5:30-5:35’s. Do I go with them or get stuck in no-man’s land within the first 10k? I committed to stay to my race strategy (5:45’s) and let that pack go.

Mile 8 or should I say 8- mile? (Underwater Mile: 5:50)

Now I know what a claustrophobic menopausal woman feels like.

Very interesting experience to say the least.

Miles 9 - 13.1 (5:55, 5:54, 5:48, 5:46, 5:45, Half: 1:16:38)

As I ascended out of the Windsor Tunnel I was greeted by spectators, family and friends all waving American flags and a banner saying, “Welcome Back!” Back in Detroit the course takes you through the historic neighborhoods of Mexicantown and Corktown. Mile 9 & 10 were straight into a headwind as the wind seemed to just tunnel through the north/south city streets. Running alone and just resettled into my pace and enjoyed the slight rain that had started since returning to the US. I personally enjoyed the mariachi band in Mexicantown, those guys were jammin’. I ended up hitting the Half in 1:16:38. This was actually a tad faster than anticipated but it was a welcomed surprise since I felt like I was in the zone. *Side Note* I feel that my only real mistake was my choice of racing flat. I was wearing the Nike Streak XC 3’s. Fabulous 5k/10k shoe. Heck, maybe I’ll wear it for a 10 miler but let me tell you, I don’t care how efficient you are, they are brutal for the full 26.2. It was around mile 12/13 that I started to feel every step I took. I could feel every crack and pebble. Next time I’m wearing my Saucony Fastwitch.

Miles 14 - 20 (5:50, 5:45, 4:45, 5:47, 5:54 (head wind), 5:56 (head wind), 5:52 (head-wind).

As with 90% of marathons these days miles 1-13 are scenic, eventful, and spectator friendly. Unfortunately that usually leaves miles 14 on as the red-headed step-child section of most courses. I have 1 word to describe miles 14-20. Lame. Oh, I enjoyed racing. It was here I started to slowly reel guys in as they started to fade but there was NOTHING esthetically pleasing about this section of the course. No entertainment, no spectators, and nothing scenic. We did run through Indian Village but if you have run through one suburb of a major city, you have run through them all. This part of the course was all multiple mile straight-aways. Very boring BUT at least I could see those racing ahead of me.

**Running solo pretty much

from mile 6 was an interesting experience. It was easy in the sense that I've done most of my training solo BUT i wish I would have had someone there to 1) help "zone out" and clip away at 5:48-5:50 and even out some of those spastic mile splits and 2) help break the wind. Being a bigger marathoner (6'4, 175lbs) than those I was racing against I can handle the wind a tad

better but it would have liked a group to chill with for the first 15 miles or so.

Miles 21 - 23 (5:51, 5:54, 5:55)

BELLE ISLE: I entered the Island look in 10th place. 10k to go, this is were I start to make a move. It was bizarre being on Belle Isle, I figured I’d be able to get some tail wind but every time we took a right turn the wind was still a head wind. I steadily started to close the gap on the 2 or 3 runners that I could see in front of me. I made it a point that every person I caught and passed I did so very quickly to prevent myself from falling into their stride. I would catch them and get past them with in 4 or 5 steps. I wanted them to know that I felt pretty fresh and if they wanted to go with me that they’d have to really change their stride to do so.

Miles 24 - 25 (6:00, 6:03)

You take a left turn off the Island and hit mile 23. Just over 5k to do. It was here I passed another guy and put myself in 6th place. You run south west back into the city and all I remember about these last few miles was the wind! That wind comes straight off the river so it’s chilly and strong. Mile 24 and 25 are part of the Riverwalk which is basically a boardwalk into the city. I must say I’m not sure how the masses of marathoners ran through this section during the later stages of the race. It’s a 8-10 ft wide path that weaves in and out of the shore line. Nothing like throwing you off your cadence then having to take tight turns. Some sections also had random rubber mats laying over what I assume were utility doors. The rain made those really slick and I found out really quick that if I wasn’t careful I’d slip and probably not get up!

Since mile 22 I was in uncharted waters not only in pace (I had done 15 miles at 5:50 pace about 6 weeks before) but also in distance (Longest run was 22 miles). I wasn't sure if I should start “picking it up.” What did that even look like? I passed 2 more guys through this section to

put myself in 4th place but I committed to just stay even. I wasn’t sure if that notorious wall still lay ahead.

Mile 26 (5:56)

“But the most powerful thing about humble beginnings is that they are

humbling” -Chrysler 300 commercial-

Even now I don’t even know how to describe this last mile to you. As I entered back into the spectator area downtown I could hear the cheers of the crowd as those ahead of me were finishing. This last mile was pain free. To be honest I don’t remember a single thing about this last mile. I can’t tell you (apart from looking at a map) whether I took a right turn or a left turn. I don’t remember a friend getting with-in 5 feet of me to yell, “Take it home Gooty.” I can’t even remember what the city scape looked like. I was in my own zone...I was having a flashback of sorts. It was in this last mile that I replayed the most significant moment in my running “career.” If you asked anyone what race it would be they’d quickly suggest, “being a State Champ,” “being an All-American,” or “Running USATF Nationals.” And to those I say “no,” the race that is most significant to who I am as a running today came when I was 15 years at the First Light 5k in Mobile, Alabama. At that point in my life I hated running. I hated logging the miles and I hated SHORT SHORTS! I jumped into this 5k as part of my winter training during Christmas vacation. It was on that day I ran an average 18:30, nothing special.

But more importantly, it was on that day I won my first race. The humbling thing about it was that I would have never imagined that it would be the first of many to come. The award from that race still sits on my bookshelf as a reminder that I was perhaps 18:30, 5000 meters, 1 winter vacation away from NOT being a runner...

385 yds (69-70 seconds)

I probably looked like a giant dork running down the home stretch. I could see family and friends in the crowd and I probably had the cheesiest smile ever on my face. To be honest the most important thing I was thinking about was “get a good picture, get a good picture...”

Aftermath

It’s been about 5-6 weeks since the marathon and I am still wore out. I can just tell I’m not 100% yet. I’ve been told this is pretty common for first timers. I have a new training plan and it’s been great to take what I’ve learned leading up to Detroit and put it into my training for my next marathon.

What’s amazing about this distance is that there are people faster and there are people who have way more inspiring stories but on race day, you’re all in the same boat. 2:03:02 or 5:00:00: they are all heroes to me and I am honored to be in their company.

Decemeber 5th was 19 weeks until Boston 2012. It’s the Miles

of Trials and the Trials of Miles. Good luck to all those running winter and spring marathons, I’ll see you on the roads.

Justin M. Gutierrez

CRC Annual Meeting - 11/20/2011

2011-11-17T08:56:00.001-08:00

Sunday 11/20/2011 Charlotte Running Club is conducting our first annual meeting. We strongly encourage each member to attend. Since the meeting is open to the public, family and friends are welcome to attend as well. A couple of logistics and then the agenda:

Location: Run For Your Life store in SouthPark.
4722-G Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210
980.224.8702 980.224.8702 Location Map

Time: 1pm - we will be doing a short all paces group run a little after 1pm. K-Swiss run test shoes will be available to try out on your run. Carolina's Sports Clinic will be available for post run massages! The Panthers game will be on in the store.
2pm - Start of annual meeting.

Agenda:

Call to Order

Thank you

CRC Goals and Mission

2011 Year in Review

2011 Finances

2012 Charlotte Running Club Board Announced

2012 Next Steps

2012 Finance Improvements

2012 Draft Budget

Question/Answer

Other
1/28/12 CRC 8k Race at McAlpine Park
CRC Point Series

Thank you to our 2011 Board Members
Aaron Linz
Caitlin Chrisman
Billy Shue
Ben Hovis
Emily Barrett
Jamie Dodge
Scott Helms
Jason Holder
Allen Strickland

Thank you to all our 2012 candidates
Val Matena
Aaron Linz
Chad Randolph
Billy Shue
Mike Beigay
Ben Hovis
Tom Patania
Adam Mayes
Jamaar Valentine
Scott Helms
Bill Shires
Caitlin Chrisman
Emily Barrett
Carolyn Maye

Thank you to contributors in 2011
Eimear Goggin – Website
Bill Shires – Race Results
Mike Kahn – Media Specialist
Rebecca Thomason – CRC house, beer mile

Charlotte Running Club Goals
Maintained and updated by each board each year

2011 Goals
Set world record in 5K X 100 relay competition
Expand team competitions
Establish regularly scheduled and consistent social events
Launch an annual race
Appoint a volunteer coordinator
Begin developing relationships with other regional and national running Clubs
Develop a system of ordering and distributing branded apparel

2014 Goals
Have an established annual race
Have a defined mentor/coaching sys-tem in place
Purchase a race timing system
Have a system for measuring success of group runs
Have criteria in place for relationships with local and national vendors interested in sponsorship / partnership

2016 Goals
Have a firm sustainable management structure
Be a regionally recognized and respected running Club
Field a sponsored elite team

Mission
CRC guiding principles that board decisions should always adhere to

The Charlotte Running Club's Mission is:
Help members become more consistent
Motivate
Create a sense of camaraderie
Help members meet running goals

2011 Year in Review
The 2011 CRC Board goal has been to establish a foundation for the future. As a major part of that effort, we continue to talk about sustainable activities. We have a tremendous amount of energy throughout the Club and want to ensure we are taking smart steps forward that align with our Club mission and vision. By doing so, the Charlotte Running Club will continue to support the needs of the running community for many years into the future.

2011 Actions Defined and Approved
· Mission Statement
· Vision Statement
· 1/2/5 year plan
· Bylaws
· Yearly Budget
· Nomination and Election Process
· Membership fees and membership process
· Renewed USATF Club membership
· Joined RRCA

2011 Accomplishments
· Planned and broke the world record for the 100x5k
· Water stop volunteers for Firecracker 5k
· Thunder Road Marathon Course Marshals for Dilworth area
· Spring Annual Social at French Quarter
· Fall Marathon Social at Tyber Creek
· Cinco de Mayo Club Birthday/Tequila Quarter
· Club picnic at Beatty Park / Michael Kahn’s residence
· Beer Mile
· Implemented Sunday fun runs out of Freedom park
· Blue Ridge Relay sponsored team
· Club gear available online – spring and fall lines
· Upgraded Club gear quality based on member feedback
· Streamlined the newsletter process and moved to a monthly eNewsletter
· Archived old Club newsletters and posted to the web
· Streamlined race results software and process
· Conducted a Club survey and took actions on results, summary results to be published before year end
· Completed monthly board meetings including a January retreat to Asheville and a spring retreat to Concord. No Club funds were used in Ashville. Gear profits were used to cover meeting space and dinner in Concord
· Redesigned CRC blog to add more information and increase the diversity of runner spotlights
· Continued relationship management with local specialty running stores
· Overhauled Group Run listing to present in several different manners, include all runs in the Charlotte region regardless of whether CRC or not and finalizing plan to continue to better communicate, support, and grow group runs
· Maintained website, blog, and Facebook with timely Club information and general local running information and awareness
· Maintained an average of less than 2 days to respond to any Club member, or other inquires to our Club email
· Began planning for Club race in 2012
· Successfully managed the transition of responsibilities from Jay Holder to the rest of the Board after he moved

CRC success at Spinx Marathon - Race Recap

2011-11-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

Marathon Recap of Greenville Spinx Marathon (10-29-2011) by Matt McGuire. Congrats Matt on a terrific race and thank you for sharing.

Growing up in Boston, my end goal for my running career was always running in the Boston Marathon. After a mystery injury sidelined me during my Junior and Senior year of college (as well as 4 years afterwards) I didn't think I would be able to achieve that goal. Then just as randomly as the injury showed up, it disappeared, and I started to get back into running. After a few successful months, I set my sights on Boston, though I wasn't quite sure about the whole qualifying thing.

I found a training plan online and starting my training. A few months later I was running in my first race since college, the Baltimore Marathon. With a little help from a pace group, I crossed the finish line at 3:09:30, right under the qualifying time for Boston. I immediately started my training for Boston and couldn't wait for April to roll around. Boston was everything I thought it would be, with a huge after party from my family and everything. On top of all that, I got a new PR, crossing the line in 3:07:10. With that goal crossed off my list, I had to figure out what was next. 3 hours, thats what.

Only problem was, I still didn't quite know how to train for a marathon. I decided I needed to find some people who knew what they were doing, and came across the CRC online. I started running Tuesday mornings at the Miner's run, and enjoyed having some fellow runners to push me for once. Ben Hovis was then kind enough to put together a plan for me, which proved to be very successful. My mileage topped out at 74 miles vs. 50 the marathons prior, I added speed work and took my long runs well below the 8 minute pace my previous online plans recommended.

I picked Greenville Spinx Marathon because it was local, it would be a lot more low-key than Boston and my wife could do the half marathon too. Thankfully, the weather was perfect, low/mid 40s, sunny, and the rain that was there all night before had left. I decided I was gonna break the race up into 5 mile chunks to manage my times a little better but also allow myself to respond to how I felt and not micromanage it too much. There were about 600 runners for the marathon, and I found myself starting on, well, the starting line.

I went out with the lead group of 15 or so and went through the 1st 2 miles at 6:10 pace. Then I settled in with 2 other runners and went through 5 miles at 32:30, 1:50 under pace and feeling really good after my taper the last 2 weeks.

Miles 4 to 8 I was pretty much 20 seconds between the guy in front and the guy behind me. I took a pit stop at mile 8, and quickly caught up with a pack of 4 that had passed me during my stop. I ran with these guys from mile 9 to mile 16. I went through mile 10 in 1:07:26, 1:13 under pace. I was still feeling really good, and felt that staying with this group would be beneficial through mile 20. Miles 10-15 had the only hills that the course really had and I went through mile 15 at 1:42:13, :46 under pace.

I had to make a choice around mile 16, and decided for another quick pit stop, which dropped me about 30 seconds behind the group. I was pretty much by myself for the remainder of the race, and that includes the spectators. I think I had passed 2 since mile 8. I picked up the pace to try and catch back up, but they had also picked up the pace as well. It was about to get a little lonely.

Right around mile 18, I felt my hamstrings tighten up, first my right, and then a mile later my left. They continued to get progressively tighter as it went on. I came through mile 20 at 2:14:58, 2:20 under pace, and I felt really good about breaking the 3hr mark. With the 2 mile always being my track event, I decided to turn the last 6.2 into 3 2 mile runs. Mile 22 was 2:28:59, 2:03 under. Mile 23 put me in at an 8:45 split, which made me very nervous. I didn't find out until Mile 24 that it must have been mismarked, but I had fallen well off the pace during that 2 mile stretch. I was only 2 seconds under pace through 24, and my hamstrings were hurting!

Mile 26 was uphill through downtown and I was glad to finally see some other runners and spectators for some extra energy! I came through 26 at 2:58:30, dead even to the pace, and I knew I had to move it. It was right about there where it merged with the half marathon, so all of a sudden I had to dodge other runners. I may or may not have yelled once when I got cut off as I tried to go into my sprint.

The race finished around the warning track of a minor league baseball stadium (side note - it's a replica of Fenway Park, so being from Boston, that was pretty cool) and I could see the clock ahead. I went into full sprint mode, my calves getting completely locked up, and I pushed through it to cross the line in 2:59:57! 2 seconds to spare! Then I had the awesome feeling of accomplishment and severe pain, but I was excited to be able to call myself a sub-3hr marathoner! I ended up finishing 8th overall, and 1st in my age group, which one me a SWEET coffee mug! haha

Thanks again to everyone from the CRC and all my running buddies that helped push me through all the miles and to help me reach my goal! You guys are a great group!

Marathon Inspiraton - Josh Lemke Chicago 2011 Recap

2011-11-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

Josh Lemke Recap of 2011 Chicago Marathon (editors note: Great job Josh and thank u for sharing)

I’ve eagerly awaited February 1st’s arrival for the past five years for one reason and one reason only; it was time to register for the Chicago Marathon. As February 2nd rolled around each year I would tell myself that this year I would dedicate myself to my training and actually stick with it as well. This year turned out to be a little different…

It was a chilly morning in February as I showed up for a Wednesday morning run at the Dowd YMCA with the Charlotte Running Club. I found myself apprehensive as I walked through the entryway to the Dowd as I had no idea as what to expect. In the previous years I’ve participated I trained on my own. I had never run with a group let alone a club dedicated to running, or “running club.” I first met Michael Kahn as I ventured my way through the brightly lit hallway. He was excited that another member was joining for a Wednesday run. Apparently the attendance wasn’t as good on Wednesdays as it was on Thursdays. Michael then introduced me to Chad Crockford, Justin Breland and Jason Martin.

It was 6 a.m. as we set out for our run. As I fell towards the back of the group I quickly realized that these guys were out of my league. They immediately started talking about their sub 3 hour marathon times, running Boston and next weekend’s tempo run. “What’s a tempo run,” I thought, I had no idea. As they carried on chatting back and forth on a run that seemed effortless, I was struggling to keep up and began praying that the run would only be 4 or 5 miles. As we pulled back into the “Y,” 8 miles later, out of breath, legs sore and my heart pounding, I immediately knew that this year, this year would be my year.

Let me give a quick recap of my previous Chicago Marathons.

2007: My goal – Break 4 hours. The marathon was cancelled mid-run after a record breaking heat wave that killed one person and sent more than 350 to the hospital. I finished before the race was called in a time of 3:47:01.

2008: My goal – Break 3:40. It was only 7 minutes faster, certainly I could do that. I finished with one second to spare in 3:39:59.

2009: My goal – Break 3:30. It was cold this year. Low 30’s at the start. I dropped my gloves a little too early and my hands were freezing! I finished in 3:29:24.

2010: My goal – Faster than last year. My little brother ran the race with me this year. For the first time I started in the open corral and it was a madhouse. My 4th marathon, his 1st. I edged him out by 7 seconds finishing in 3:48:02. Disappointment set in…

2011: My goal – This was my year!!!

On every training run you quickly learn that almost every day you will be asked, “What is your goal?” I stated that my goal was a “Low 3 hours.” The goal I really wanted but highly doubted was 3:05. The hail mary of goals, the goal I desperately wanted yet hardly considered was to beat 3 hours.

Chicago Marathon 2011

4am – Alarm goes off, I quickly jump out of bed, push ‘brew’ on the hotel coffee pot that I had set the night before and get in the shower.

4:20am – Sipping my coffee and eating a bagel with peanut butter.

4:30am – I told my partner, Matthew, and friends (Kyle, Josh, and Philip) that were there to cheer me on that I wanted to leave the hotel by 5am, I am getting antsy and send text messages to make sure everyone is up and moving.

4.50am – I am down in the lobby texting again to see if they are coming down.

6:10am – We make it to the Balbo Hospitality tent where there is a private gear check and port o potties. A must have in Chicago as the lines are a mile long!

6:20am – Apply body glide, band aids on the nipples, check my gear, and use the restroom for the 15th time, just to be sure.

6:45am – Stretching and pacing, stretching and pacing.

6:50am – Make my way to the B Corral and like every year it is a mad house trying to get there, and there is fear in everyone’s eyes that they will close the gates before they get into the corral!

7:15am – In the corral and waiting for the gun…nerves are getting high and I think I may have to use the restroom again, yikes!

7:45am – The gun goes off and I am shooting for a 6:50 pace which would put me right at 3 hours.

Mile 1 – Even though I am in the B corral the crowd is still tight and I am trying to make my way through. First mile complete in 7:20. I am not off to a good start and am feeling frantic, wait, its only mile one. Chill out!

Mile 2 – The crowd has not cleared out, at all, but I manage to pull off a 6:40 mile. This is much better and I try to settle into my pace.

Mile 3-8 – I am cruising along, enjoying the scene, I was expecting to see my cheer squad around mile 3 but the crowd was a dozen deep and it was impossible to find anyone. I’m pulling off 6:45 miles, give or take a few seconds and I am very happy and feeling great.

Mile 9 - Approaching Boystown and from previous years and training runs I know that at this time is when I like to have someone to run with. I see a guy in front of me that looks like he is going at a good clip. I run up with him and ask his goal. “Sub 3” was his response. Quickly compare times and I am about 10 seconds ahead of him. Perfect! Greg was my new best friend!

Mile 10-17 - We chat back forth a little bit and quickly agree that there will be no more talking. With each passing mile we smile at each other seeing that we are on pace for sub 3 hours.

Mile 18 – This is where I begin to break down every year…”This is my year…This is my year…” Feeling pretty good!!

Mile 19 – Ok, now I am starting to feel it. With each bend of the legs I am beginning to feel a sharp pain in my knees. This is my year, forget the pain. Still on pace for sub 3 hours. “Is this real?”

Mile 20 – Greg is starting to pull away.

Mile 21 – Push it for the next 60 seconds and catch back up with Greg. Don’t let him go. Holy cow my legs are really starting to hurt…but I catch Greg and run a 6:51 mile. Still on pace for 3 hours.

Mile 22 – 24 – I lose Greg again and my legs are really hurting. With each push off I feel a Charlie horse on the verge of taking over my calves. I try running without bending my legs too far. My miles are starting to edge above 7 minutes and I slowly see the 3 hour mark slipping away. I dig deep and try to pick it up but the legs win and I simply cannot push any harder.

Mile 24 - 26 – Quickly I am computing times in my head to make sure I am going to hit my 3:05 goal. I realize that even if I do 8:30 miles I will definitely make it. I have a feeling of relief and exhilaration pour over me but at the same time I want to continue to push my body to its limit. This is my year and I am not leaving anything behind on Michigan Ave.

The Home Stretch - As I make the 2nd to last turn up Roosevelt, the only hill on the course, I pick it up as much as I possibly can. To me it was agony; to everyone else it probably didn’t appear I was moving any faster than I was moments earlier. I make the final turn down Columbus towards the finish line and it is hard to believe that I am actually going to break 3:05.

As I cross the finish line, my first thought is, “Next year, I will go sub 3.”

Official Time: 3:02:45

I would like to say a special thank you to everyone in the Charlotte Running Club for your support, guidance, and motivation. Thanks to Matthew, my friends and family for their continued support of my running. A very special thanks to everyone who made a donation to “Time Out Youth” in support of my fundraising efforts this year. In total I raised over $3,500. If you did not get to make a donation and would like to please click on the following link: http://www.networkforgood.org/pca/Badge.aspx?BadgeId=115215%20

MARATHON RECAP: “THE QUEST FOR SUB-THREE IN D.C.”

2011-11-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

There’s something about the days leading up to a marathon that makes me question whether I truly have what it takes to conquer the distance. Maybe it’s the fact that I never actually run the full distance in training. Maybe it’s the memory of hitting the wall in a past marathon. Or maybe it’s the two-week taper after months of high mileage that leaves me feeling restless and uneasy. The Marine Corps Marathon would be my fourth marathon since the first in 2008, yet the same fears and anxiety I felt running my debut marathon would still race through my mind. Sure, I had increased my training mileage, added essential quality workouts to the rotation, and improved my 5k and Half Marathon PRs since last year…but it’s still the marathon, and everybody knows that “anything can happen in a marathon.”

In the beginning of 2011, I set three goals for myself: Run a sub 18-minute 5k, Win a road race, and Run a sub 3-hour marathon. With two goals checked off the list, only one goal remained. And so, after months of tempo runs, Dilworth Speed Loop workouts, and CRC Group Long Runs, I made the trip up to D.C. with my site set on achieving a new PR of “2 hours and change.”
My wife and I arrived in D.C. with the threat of rain, sleet and snow in the weekend forecast. After being snowed out of the Myrtle Beach Marathon in 2010, I was not about to miss another marathon due to snow. Fortunately, all signs pointed to the storm clearing out by Sunday which put my worries at ease.

Since Saturday’s conditions were not conducive to site-seeing, I decided to map out a race strategy in the hotel room while Kristen ran 9-miles around D.C. in the cold rain to prepare for her first half-marathon (so proud of her!). Based on my current fitness level and past experience running marathons, I went into this race thinking 2:56 to 2:59 would be an acceptable target finish range. I wrote down the following pre-race goals:
1) Take it easy the first mile to warm up the muscles, lock into a nice comfortable rhythm around 6:40 pace and hit the half between 1:27-1:28.
2) Stay concentrated on maintaining pace during Miles 14-20 and aim to hit the 20-mile mark around 2:13. Don’t let goal pace slip away by losing focus.
3) During the last 6 miles, visualize running “an easy six down to Freedom Park and back to the house.” Count down the miles to go rather than the miles already run.
4) Fuel with Clif Bloks at 6.5, 10.5, 15.5, and 21 followed by water (since these points precede the water station areas).

Saturday afternoon we met up with my in-laws and took the Metro downtown to pick up my bib and do a little site-seeing in the city. While they wanted to check out the Spy Museum, I convinced them to go to the “Museum of Crime & Punishment” instead. I figured if I saw some of the crazy things they did to torture people back in Medieval Times, maybe 26.2 miles wouldn’t feel so bad the next day? Afterwards, it was off to eat some pasta downtown and back to the hotel early so that I would be well rested for the big test the next morning.
I woke up at 5:30am on race morning after a surprisingly good night of sleep, downed a Clif Bar with some coffee and toast, and got ready so we could leave the hotel by 6:30. All I have to say is good thing we left early! Getting to the start line took a lot longer than I thought as thousands of runners made the 2-mile walk from the Metro stop through security and to the start line. Fortunately, we had timed everything perfectly as I got to the front corral with 15-minutes to spare. After a short welcome speech by Drew Carey (who actually jumped in and ran the marathon), the starting WWII Cannon fired away and we were off and running….let’s do this!
As amped up as I felt at the start, I remembered my race plan and decided to take it easy for the first mile to get warmed up. I hit Mile 1 in 6:43…perfect! Next on the agenda was to try lock in goal pace. I stopped looking at my watch and tried listening to what my body wanted to do. Mile 2 was an uphill which I hit in 6:35 (Wow, 6:30’s never felt so easy after tapering!). From this point on, I assumed 6:30’s would feel less and less easy…not the case at all. Miles 3 and 4 flew by in 6:24 and 6:10. At this point I decided to ditch 6:40 goal pace and just run based on feel. When I crossed over Key Bridge into Georgetown, I got an extra boost of confidence seeing Chad & Danielle Crockford cheering “Go CRC!” (Very cool seeing some CRC representation out there!).

After hitting Mile 5 in 6:24 and Mile 6 in 6:35, it was time to climb up the long hill on Canal Rd. I took my first installment of Clif Bloks and starting climbing. Since I knew this was the last significant climb I would experience, I decided to take it easy on the way up and crush the downhill section. The plan worked out great as I ascended Mile 7 in 6:48, followed by a fast 6:29 (M8) and 6:17 (M9)…feeling great!

My wife and in-laws were waiting for me just before Mile 9. I passed my gloves off and continued onward out of Georgetown. Shortly after seeing Kristen, I was greeted again by Chad & Danielle at the 15k mark where they snapped a photo of me. If you notice, I have a big smile on my face. This is not only because I saw my friends from Charlotte, but because the digital clock behind Chad was displaying 1:00:52 (6:32 pace!)…so much for 6:40’s!
At this point, I knew the course would be mostly flat the rest of the way so I decided it would be a good time to try and be more consistent with my pace. My strategy worked well as I hit the next four miles in 6:33 (M10), 6:28 (M11), 6:31 (M12), and 6:37 (M13). [Note: Stone Temple Pilots cover band at Mile 11 got me fired up which might explain the slightly faster 6:28 split...props to MCM for delivering some quality live bands!].

At last, the half-way digital clock greeted me towards the turnaround point…1:25:47!! Talk about a confidence boost. I was way ahead of my 1:27 goal and feeling confident. Next, the course would head north where I immediately noticed a headwind in my face which made it slightly harder to maintain pace. Despite the wind, I managed to roll off some steady splits hitting 6:36 (M14), 6:37 (M15), and 6:39 (M16) while taking my scheduled Clif Bloks along the way.

With the headwind behind me, it got a whole lot easier heading east towards the National Mall section. Not only did I get to see Kristen again, but I got to see all the famous D.C. landmarks up close. Fan support was excellent during this section as well, which covered Miles 17 to 20. Feeding off the energy of the surroundings, I hit my splits in 6:31 (M17), 6:32 (M18), 6:39 (M19), 6:45 (M20).

Just before the bridge, the 20-mile mark displayed 2:11:45 (6:35 pace!) which was well ahead of my 2:13 goal and 6 minutes ahead of sub-3 hour pace. At this point, I knew Sub 3 hours was pretty much in the bag. Not only was I way ahead of goal pace, but I still felt really good (which had not been the case at Mile 20 in past marathons). I took my last portion of Clif Bloks and headed over the bridge for the last 6.2 miles….almost there!
The last 6 miles were pretty much whatever my body gave me. I didn’t want to get too greedy since I knew I’d hit my goal, so I decided to hit the cruise control at a “comfortably-hard” pace. Not too ambitious, but not too easy. I hit my next four miles in 6:46 (M21), 6:46 (M22), 6:39 (M23), and 6:54 (M24).

With only 2 miles to go, the cumulative effect of 24 miles on my legs combined with the headwind in my face heading up Highway 110 started to take its toll. I tried my best to just zone out and slug forward hitting Mile 25 in 7:08 and Mile 26 in 7:02 (these would be the only splits over 7 minutes for the entire race). Finally, I could hear the crowds cheering as I turned towards the Marine Corps Memorial. Time to finish strong!! …Well, not exactly. It turns out there’s a nice little climb to the finish which ruins any attempt to step up the pace. I would have to settle for 7-minute pace at the finish, but I didn’t care at this point. At last, I crossed the finish line in 2:55:01, a full five minutes under 3-hours….GOAL ACCOMPLISHED!!!
Overall, my performance exceeded all expectations. Considering all the things that could go wrong in a marathon, I would say the day couldn't have gone any better. I'm not sure what my next goal will be in terms of marathoning. For now, I am going to sit back and enjoy accomplishing a huge milestone!

Special thanks to the Charlotte Running Club community for supporting and motivating me throughout my training. And of course my awesome wife who has always been my #1 fan!
Garmin Stats: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/125455727

Reedy Creek Monday Run

2011-10-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Monday Evening Trail Run at Reedy Creek Park will start at 6:00 pm next Monday (October 24th), and that will be the last run for the year. It's getting dark and too hard to see under the trees now. So come on out for your Last Chance to run this challenging 5.3 mile course in 2011!

Eimear (emgoggin at gmail)

CRC BOD 2012 Candidates as of 10/21

2011-10-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

One week into the nomination period and we have the following candidates for CRC Board of Director 2012 postions. Members will elect 8 board of directors adn the new board will appoint 2 more board members. Nominations will be accepted until 11/14 and the full candidate list will be published each week.

Val Matena

Aaron Linz

Chad Randolph

Billy Shue

Mike Beigay

Ben Hovis

Tom Patania

Adam Mayes

Jamaar Valentine

Scott Helms

Bill Shires

Caitlin Chrisman

Emily Barrett

Carolyn Maye

2011 CRC Board of Directors Accomplishments

2011-10-14T05:17:00.000-07:00

The board of directors asked me to reflect back on 2011 (which still has 2+ months remaining) and capture our accomplishments. Our board goal for 2011 has been to establish a foundation for the future. As a major part of that effort, we continue to talk about sustainable activities. We have a tremendous amount of energy throughout the club which is fantastic, but we want to ensure we are taking smart steps forward that align with our club mission and vision. The smart steps that align are the ones that can be sustainable and provide for a club that continues to support the needs of the running community for many years into the future.

The board definitely has come away with several lessons learned this year and a whole host of new ideas to continue improvement and growth in 2012. However, I am proud that a group of volunteers served their fellow club members in such an exemplary manner. Thank you to each of the 2011 board members and the membership in general as well for their support. – Linz (Prez)

Defined and approved:

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

1/2/5 year plan

Bylaws

Yearly Budget

Nomination and Election Process

Membership fees and membership process

Renewed USAT club membership

Joined RRCA

Planned and broke the world record for the 5k x 100

Water stop volunteers for Firecracker 5k

Thunder Road Course Marshals for Dilworth area

Spring Annual Social at French Quarter

Marathon Social at Tyber Creek

Cinco de Mayo Club Birthday/Tequila Quarter

Club picnic at Beatty Park

Beer Mile

Implemented Sunday fun runs out of Freedom park

Blue Ridge Relay sponsored team

Moved club gear online and managed a spring and fall line

Upgraded club gear quality based on member feedback

Streamlined the newsletter process and moved to a monthly eNewsletter

Archived old club newsletters and posted to the web

Streamlined race results software and process

Conducted a club survey and took actions on results, summary results to be published before year end

Completed monthly board meetings including a January retreat to Ashville and a spring retreat to Concord. No club funds were used in Ashville. Gear profits were used to cover meeting space and dinner in Concord.

Overhauled crc blog to add more information and increase the diversity of runner spotlights.

Continued relationship management with local specialty running stores.

Overhauled Group Run listing to present in several different manners, include all runs in the Charlotte region regardless of whether CRC or not and finalizing plan to continue to better communicate, support, and grow group runs

Maintained website, blog, and Facebook with timely club information and general local running information and awareness

Maintained an average of less than 2 days to respond to any club member, or other inquires to our club email.

Began planning for club race in 2012.

Completed transition of a founding member and director moving out of the area

Looking for a Costume Race? NoDaWeen!

2011-10-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

What? 1 night, 4 events at NoDaWEEN, including the Freaky 5k Twilight Race
When? Saturday, October 29th at 6PM Race Start
Where? Neighborhood Theater at 511 East 36th Street
Why? Costume Contest + Prizes for Top 3 Overall Winners!

Details
In the twilight hours of Saturday, October 29, 2011, hundreds of runners and revelers will race through the streets of NoDa in the Freaky 5k Race. The race will begin and end at the Neighborhood Theatre located at 511 East 36th Street, Charlotte, NC. Race Day registration opens at 5:00 p.m. and the race begins at 6:00 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, but optional.

Following the race, participants who have chosen to dress-up will be automatically entered in a costume contest with the best three costumes receiving prizes. This is in addition to 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place prizes awarded to the fastest Male and Female runners.

Proceeds of Race
100% of the proceeds from NoDaWEEN will benefit the NoDa Neighborhood Association. NoDa NA is dedicated to promoting the arts, advocating for greener environments, supporting small businesses, encouraging diversity, and aiding fellow charities. NoDa NA is a grassroots organization that does not have huge financial resources or wherewithal to produce massive events. NoDa NA relies on the efforts of our sponsors, donors, and volunteer staff to keep the neighborhood alive, vibrant, and streaming with tourists. The NoDa NA is also a federally recognized 501 (c)3 charitable organization.

Participant Packet Pickup
Friday, October 28 at the Johnston YMCA Gymnastics Room from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Event Parking
Event parking for the Freaky 5K is available at the Johnston YMCA from 5 p.m. until midnight. There will be a $5 parking fee for this lot during these time slots. ALL proceeds will be directly donated to the Johnston YMCA to benefit another worthy non-profit. Parking attendants will be there to guide the way and watch your car while you enjoy the festivities!

October and November Club Happenings

2011-10-10T06:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Columbus Day Charlotte Running Club members. We have an active next couple of weeks so I thought I would post some information here to help keep it all on your radar.

1) CRC BOD Nominations
The board is accepting nominations to the 2012 Charlotte Running Club board of directors. The nomination period is open 10/11 - 11/14. Elections will begin on 11/14 and will winners will be announced at the annual club meeting on 11/20. Each club member can nominate up to 8 candidates. Simply submit yourself or others to run.charlotte@gmail.com . All nominations will be verified before published.

2) Halloween Group Run Sunday, October 23 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Gravel Lot across from Freedom Park on East Blvd
Join us for a fun social run! Wear your best costume!Gift Cards to Inside Out Sports will be given out to the best costumes!! We will meet at the gravel lot across the street from the Freedom Park East Blvd. entrance for a four mile run. Snacks will be provided post run and dinner/drinks afterward.We will also have CRC car stickers for sale ($2 apiece)! All paces welcome and encouraged as we will have a sweeper. No runner left behind!

3) Thunder Road Volunteering https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/TRVolunteer
We have committed to 40 course marshals in the Dilworth area. Please sign-up as soon as possible so that we can get a good head count to meet our goal. Volunteers receive free 2012 CRC membership AND get a volunteer shirt. Please come join us to help this local event on 11/12 and to cheer your fellow club members running that day.

4) CRC Annual meeting on 11/20 RFYL SouthPark
1pm - Hash Run (all paces welcome and encouraged) - optional
2.30pm - call to order of annual meeting, elections announcements

5) Club Fall Gear - You asked, we delivered! Check out SHOP at our website for the latest fall/winter gear. Get it now so you have time to receive it before your big fall race. In addition, we have kids gear available at: http://www.cafepress.com/runcharlotte
A couple other places to find CRC branded goodies:
InsideOut Sports has running socks with our logo. Ask for them at the front desk.
RFYL has some CRC singlets and tech shirts remaining. Ask for them as well.
TrySports has CRC running hats available for sale.
Charlotte Running Company has CRC singlets and tech shirts and will be getting the new hoodies and singlets in the store.

6) Group Runs - List has been updated on our club website (http://www.charlotterunningclub.org/). In addition, you will find a link on the group runs page at our website to a spreadsheet that breaks group runs out by pace, location, day. We alsways encourage new group run leaders and information about group runs throughout the city regardless of whether they are CRC led or not.

7) Archived newsletters - We now have every CRC newsletter we have published available online. What a cool history we have! Going forward, newsletters older than 3 months will be published.
The link is always available under Facebook links or go directly there at:
https://docs.google.com/#folders/0B6xlEN3e7MtUZDYxMTlkMmQtOGZiMy00YmRkLTliMWYtM2M3MTc0MmJmN2Yy

8) Marathon Season - This past weekend the first major marathon kicked off and Charlotte was well represented as usual. With plenty more to come in the next two months, send a shout out to your club friends with some words of encouragement when you get a chance and/or join the marathoners on a few training runs. It can be a long grind preparing for a marathon but very a very satisfying accomplishment. Go CRC!!!

Free Natural Running Symposium in Charlotte - Oct 1.

2011-09-19T13:51:00.001-07:00

Our friends at Inside Out Sports passed this along to share to you all.

NATURAL RUNNING SYMPOSIUM & FORM CLINIC
10.01.11 FROM 5:00-7:00PM
Inside Out Sports
1514 South Church St.
Charlotte, NC 28203

Learn how to run faster, stronger, more efficiently and with less injury.

TOPICS INCLUDE:
Injury Prevention, Fundamentals Of Biomechanics & The Science Behind Newton Running Shoes

TEST DRIVE NEWTON SHOES:
A Newton Educator will be on hand to discuss the science behind Newton Running shoes and answer all your Newton questions! You can also take a pair of Newton Shoes out for a test run!

Earlier Start Times

2011-09-19T05:46:00.000-07:00

David Petroski's Monday Evening 5.2 mile trail run from Reedy Creek Park will be starting at 6:15 pm (instead of 6:30) for the next few weeks; as will the Thursday evening 4.5 mile hilly run from the Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. We'll probably move them back to 6:00 in another few weeks. All welcome, see the Group Runs page of the club website for more information.

CRC Board Elections

2011-09-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series of posts to help prepare you for the annual CRC elections. The exact date nominations will be accepted, the mechanism for casting votes and proxies will be provides in upcoming posts. This post provides background and details from our bylaws.

Your club is reaching adulthood! Thank you to each member for your help and support. Your board has continued to work throughout the year to establish the right foundation for the club to help continued growth and sustainability. We want this club to be around for years to come and to provide you with even better support of your running goals and those of our Charlotte running community.

As a step towards our club vision, we have continued to refine our CRC Bylaws which we store in gDocs. The bylaws as for public consumption so while dry, please feel free to read and let us know your thoughts (run.charlotte@gmail.com).

With the addition of formal bylaws and the fact that your board officially meets every month and records minutes of those meetings, we are at a point where it is time to add more of a democratic process into our club. Starting in November 2011, we will elect board members. Currently the date is set for November 20th and we are finalizing a location that is central to all. The elections will also be the site our our annual club meeting.

Specifics of the election process are as follows:

1. Elections will be held annually for half of the board. The top four vote getters will serve a two-year term, while the other six will serve a one-year term. With the exception of year 1 of elections where 8 board members are elected, all subsequent years will vote and elect 4 members to the board. The board at their discretion will have 60 days to fill 2 additional positions. The board can use any means to decide but must have majority (5 of 8 board members) decision before the President can extend an invitation to a member.

2. All nominees for board positions must be members of CRC. All Board Members must be members of CRC for at least six months prior to election.

3. The term begins on the first day of the calendar year and lasts until the comparable day one or two years hence, when the next annual meeting is held.

4. Nominating Procedure.

a) Nominate yourself.

b) Nominated by others

c) Nomination period: seven weeks prior to the week before the annual meeting.

d) Each member can nominate up to 4 candidates.

e) Voting period: voting begins 1 week prior to the annual meeting and will conclude at the annual meeting.

f) Nominations must be sent to and processed by the President. He or she is responsible for making the nominations public.

5. Election process: Create a ballot based on the nominations. All ballots will be counted by the attorney appointed by the Board. Votes will be cast during the voting period (see B.4.e. above). Each member will get to vote for four new members (Year one of elections will be 8).

Warrior Dash Recap

2011-08-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

A special thanks to Billy Shue for his recap of the Warrior Dash: Billy finished 3rd overall in 23:12 for the 3.08-mile course with 12 obstacles he had to negotiate.

WOW! What a fun event!! I pulled into the race site just before 1:30pm, and after getting my packet, chip, and taking in the sights & sounds, I embarked on just under a 13-minute warmup around the parking field and first mile of the course before settling into a spot on the starting line in the 2pm wave. Because I knew I would be getting quite muddy by the end, I decided to wear my old Mizuno Elixirs that I ran in during the previous fall and winter (including the 2010 Thunder Road Marathon) and send those out with a bang, before bringing them back to their current state of mowing/yardwork shoes. I also wore my green USMC physical training (PT) shirt that I wore during Marine Officer Candidate School in Quantico, VA, during the summers of 2004 and 2005, where I encountered very similar obstacles during our Stamina and Endurance Course runs. (My original plan was to race in my camis and boots, but I realized I would have cooked out there had I did!)

The gun went off precisely at 2pm and after about 400m, I was leading the charge uncontested it seemed, for my heat, as I felt like I was running the first mile at 5k pace. Since I don't have a Garmin, I don't know how far we went before hitting the first obstacle, but it seemed like it was about a mile or slightly under. By the first obstacle, I could tell I had gapped the rest of the field in my heat, based off the course monitors cheering me on. The first obstacle was the "Barricade Breakdown", which involved scaling over a chain of walls and crawling under fenceposts tangled in barbed wire for several cycles. The second obstacle was immediately after and was the "Road Rage" obstacle, which involved jumping in-&-out of a chain of dumpsters and running through sets of tires in several cycles.

After the second obstacle, we got to run for a fair distance through the woods, which involved some steep, curving terrain! I was definitely feeling the burn by now, after having started out at 5k pace and then tackling the first two obstacles, but I kept charging along. (I'll pace myself a little better next year on the run leading up to the first obstacles!) After I came back out of the woods, the third obstacle was the "Great Warrior Wall", where I scaled a high wall with a rope before hurling myself over down the other side. The next obstacle was the "Teetering Traverse", where I went up a very narrow plank and then came down on the other side after hitting the crest. After the fourth obstacle, I ran another fair distance through the woods across the big open field where I started passing a bunch of people who were racing in the 1:30pm heat. I let the racers know I was coming on their left so that I could try to avoid potential traffic jams or collisions, which I was able to manage well.

After running through the woods a good bit again, I hit the crunch-time stretch of the final eight obstacles, which were all in close proximity of each other. The fifth obstacle was the "Blackout" obstacle, where I had to crawl through a low-lying tent of complete darkness. I was crawling so fast through the darkness that I almost had my bell rung when I banged my head off one of the big wooden stakes holding the tent up from within! Shortly thereafter was the sixth obstacle called the "Chaotic Crossover", which was a jungle gym of tangled nets/ropes intended for people to crawl over. I, however, briskly walked on top of the nets and carefully balanced myself while also making sure I wasn't stepping on anyone from the 1:30pm wave who were also negotiating the obstacle at the same time. Next was the seventh obstacle called the "Assassins Escape", which involved climbing up a chain of high steps and then going down a firepole at the end. I then proceeded to run to the eighth obstacle which involved jumping in & going through waist-deep muddy water over a chain of logs and to dry land again - I swam across this body of water and butterfly-stroked myself over the logs, while others from the 1:30pm heat were trudging across. This was my favorite obstacle and Lake McAlpine trained me very well for it!! After engaging this muddy water hazard, I proceeded on to the ninth obstacle, which was the "Horizontal Hike", where I went up and over an archway of wooden planks. Next up was the tenth obstacle, which was the "Cargo Climb", where I climbed up & over a high tepee of cargo nets. Next was the eleventh obstacle, which was the famous "Warrior Roast" hazard where I had to leap/hurdle over a chain of warrior fires - this was awesome!! Finally I could see the finish line, but I had one more muddy obstacle to go through! The twelth obstacle was the "Muddy Mayhem" where I jumped into a pool of mud and crawled under several rows of barbed wire. Upon completion of this obstacle, I sprinted a short distance ahead to the finish line, where I was able to successfully complete my first ever Warrior Dash!

After getting sprayed down really good by the spray trucks and seeing my parents, I watched and cheered on the rest of my heat as they were coming in. It was great recaping the experience to my parents who had a great time watching me take part in this event! I was very thankful and appreciative that they came to watch me! After hanging out with them a good bit, my parents headed home since it was pretty hot outside. I got to meet a guy named Adam from Durham who was in my heat and we chatted/hung out the rest of the afternoon there, while chowing down on some huge, delicious turkey legs while waiting for the awards ceremony. Because overall winners were not excluded from the age-group awards, I was able to double up on awards. I was 3rd overall and also 3rd in my age group, as the men's 25-29 age group once again prooved to be the group of death as we swept the overall category. I got a mini knight helmet for age group and then received a really nice Viking helmet (indicating my overall place) that fit perfectly on my head! I know what I'll be dressed up as for Halloween now!!

Hats off to all the finishers and to Josh Baker who had the top overall time this weekend of 20:55 for the 3.08-mile obstacle course. Josh and I will be two of the runners on our CRC 12-man relay team that's looking to tear it up in the Blue Ridge Relay in a couple of weeks!

I absolutely cannot wait for this event again next year!!!!

Fall Marathon Social

2011-08-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

Come meet training buddies and share stories of marathons past and future! Not running a fall marathon? Come socialize anyway! We'll have the upstairs of Tyber Creek Pub reserved. The event will be catered with light appetizers; drink specials may be available (details to come). This event will be FREE for members (excluding beverages) and $10 for non-members (with the option to join CRC for $20, or $30 family membership). We have the room from 7:30 to 10:30 pm, after which it's is open to all bar patrons, so you're welcome to stay later.

Tyber Creek Pub

1933 South Blvd.

Charlotte, NC

Saturday August 27, 7:30 - 10:30 pm

Thursday Night Run - Charlotte Running Company

2011-08-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

The Thursday Night 6:30 pm run from the Dilworth Charlotte Running Company - now with added Carbones!

Now that Mark and Gina Carbone are back in town (yay!), the Thursday Night Run is NEW and IMPROVED. Thanks to Mark and Gina and Dana at the store, we have timing! We have record-keeping! We have cool pink NUUN! We have prizes! We have energy bars!

What's NOT new and improved are the hills - they're just as bad as ever :-(
I mean GOOD, of course, hills are GOOD.

Let me know if you'd like to be added to the mailing list for this run.

Eimear emgoggin@gmail.com

Interval Training for Runners at Dowd Y

2011-08-02T04:18:00.000-07:00

Our Y's here in the Charlotte area are terrific. Here is one of the many programs they offer. Registration began Aug 1st so don't delay and sign-up now.

High Intensity Interval training (HIIT) has proven to be the most time efficient method of training. Performing regular HIIT increases your "lactate threshold" which translates into being able to run faster at the same intensity level. In addition, interval training has the added benefit of increasing your resting metabolic rate for up to 12 hrs after you finish the workout. Bottomline is that you burn more calories/hr post-workout than you would by doing a moderate intensity workout of the same duration! This is a great way to burn more fat without having to drastically decrease your calorie consumption.

The purpose of this program will be to help introduce interval training into your running program or help you find new ideas for workouts if you have already been training this way. We will focus on how to structure an interval workout which will you help you get faster at any distance from 5K to full marathon. The program will feature several types of workouts with both track and hill intervals. We will also do assessments at the beginning and end of the program to measure progress.

This is the perfect program if you have some fall races on the calendar! This program is designed for distance runners and triathletes. This is NOT a beginning running program. Runners must be able to run at least 3 miles continuously.

Program Details:Registration Opens Aug 1st
Program starts Aug 30th ends Oct 18th (8 weeks)

Meeting time: Tuesday 6:30-7:30pm

Program fee: $35 /Charlotte YMCA Members $45 /non-membersQuestions?

Email dowdyrunning@gmail.com or Kim.Kotz@ymcacharlotte.org

September Racing Fun!!!

2011-07-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hey All,

September is a HUGE month for races. I encourage all of you to take a good look at our race calendar (home page of our website: www.charlotterunningclub.org).

2 races that are a bit unique in their own way so think about giving them a try.

Historic Mooresville 5k and Miracle Mile
Saturday, September 10, 2011 (not doing Blue Ridge Relay? Come run a 5k and/or 5k and Mile!!)
One Mile Run: 8:00 am **** Cash Money for overall winner ***
5K: 8:20 am
Fun Run: 9:00 am
The start and finish line is at the Mooresville Public Library
304 S. Main St, Mooresville NC 28115.

The 2nd Annual Public Health Matters 5K and 1-Mile Hike
September 21, 2011 at 6:00 PM (Wednesday night race...we don't get many of these!!!)
Reedy Creek Park, 2900 Rocky River Road, Charlotte 28215

Learn More about both of these races at:
www.charlotterunningclub.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=site.display&page_id=4580

Gender Wars Redux

2011-07-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

It's ba-a-a-ack! Male Masters vs. Female Masters Smackdown in the Dilworth 4 Miler. Score based on average GPX points or average Age Graded points* ... you get to vote! In the Summer Breeze 5k, the ladeez squeaked the win by a one point margin - and the guys are looking for revenge! Let us know if you're over 40 and like smack-talking. And beer.

Eimear emgoggin@gmail.com

* being old helps :-)

Group Strength Training Classes Information

2011-07-05T06:37:00.000-07:00

Hey all - Mark Kane is a favorite Physical Therapist/Trainer of several folks in CRC. He is offering a really good opportunity here to get exposed to this type of training and have some fun doing it in a group setting.

We have been doing some small group training at Edgehill Park on Wednesdays and are looking to expand to another day in the week or an early morning...5:30 AM during the weekday and 7 AM on Saturdays.

The focus is on functional strength, stability, balance and conditioning using different modalities such as bands, ropes, kettlebells, and bodyweight. This type of training can be helpful for triathletes since you will be taken out of your comfort zone:)

We need 4 to start a group. Pricing is like this...4 people= $80 or $20 per session (4 session block); 6 to 8 people= $60 or $15 per session (4 session block).

I bring the equipment...you bring the work ethic:) Let me know if you are interested and we can get cracking. We have 1-2 slots open for this Wednesday at 6:30 PM. We offer a make up class for those that miss one of the four sessions.

Have a great 4th of July!

Mark Kane
www.kanetraining.com
mgeofkan1@aol.com
704-307-9677

Group Runs - All Paces Welcome!

2011-06-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

Monday
10:00am From TrySports in Blakeney. 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact

6:30pm The Fabulous Reedy Creek Monday night run has started up again. It's 5.2 trail miles. Contact david.petroski@siemens.com and be sure to ask for his All New Confusing Map! All paces and all numbers of legs accommodated. What I'm trying to say is, you can bring your dog if it's on a leash.

7:00pm From the University Run For Your Life store. 4 - 6 miles; all paces welcome; Drinks and dinner afterwards. kara@runforyourlife.com

Tuesday
5:45am Fort Mill, Baxter Village Run all paces and distances welcome Contact Jamie Dodge sunshinejmd@hotmail.com

6:00am From Downtown Davidson CVS. 6 miles @ 8+ pace. Headlamp recommended. Coffee at Summit Coffee post-run. Contact Chad Randolph davidsonarearunningteam@gmail.com

6:30am From Water fountain at Christ Church on corner of Providence and Colville. 4-6 miles @ 9 pace Contact Lauren Robbins laurobbins@gmail.com

6:15pm From TrySports in Blakeney 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

Wednesday
10:00am From TrySports in Blakeney 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

5:45pm From Alexander Graham Middle School 1800 Runnymede Lane
Charlotte, NC 28211 Track workout for ALL PACES Welcome on the oval of love!
Contacts caleb_boyd@yahoo.com and Emily Barrett, emilylpc@gmail.com

6:00pm From Promenade Charlotte Running Company. 4 miles; all paces welcome. Typically 10 min pace with optional extra miles at quicker pace. 15% off purchases at store. Contact Aaron Linz amlinz@yahoo.com

6:30pm From Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. 4-8 miles; all paces welcome. 15% off purchases at store. Headlamp &/or reflective gear recommended. Contact Audra at the Charlotte Runners Meetup Group http://www.meetup.com/CharlotteRunners

Thursday
6:30 pm From Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. 4.5 miles (occasionally the 6.5 mile loop); all paces welcome. Note that we've moved the start time back by 30 minutes in the vain hope it might be a bit cooler! Occasional carb-loading afterwards. Contact Eimear Goggin emgoggin@gmail.com
6:15pm From TrySports in Blakeney. 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact

Saturday
6:30am From Queens and Providence Road (the gold statue guy - good parking) 9:30+ pace for 8-12 miles. Contact Fred Wood fmwjr@yahoo.com

7:00am From the Caribou Coffee at Cochran Commons in University. All paces welcome. Contact University City Road Runners ucrun.com

8:00am Omega Sports @ Park Road Shopping Center - Omega Sports lead run.
Meet at Park Rd Shopping Center store. Runners will head towards Freedom Park. All runners welcome. Hydration will be provided. Contact Dan Keller at dkeller@omegasports.net for more info or questions.

Sunday
7:30am From the main parking lot of McAlpine Park, 8711 Monroe Rd. Stop in lot every 4-5 miles for hydration/nutrition. All paces welcome. We park in the lower left hand corner of the lot, near where a water fountain is located. Please be there a few minutes before 7:30, especially if you need to use the restrooms. Contact Larry Seavers larry.seavers1@gmail.com or Tom Torkildsen Tom.Torkildsen@wellsfargo.com

7:30am Meet at McMullen Creek Greenway/Hwy 51 entrance. Runners will run on greenway. All runners welcome. Hydration will be provided by NUUN and Omega Sports. Contact dkeller@omegasports.net for more info and questions,

Other Options

Charlotte Runners Meetup Group
They offer run options that cater to a bit shorter distances for beginner and casual runners. We have CRC members who get a run or two in a week with Meetup and participate in our runs as well. A few of their runs are integrated into our full listing above. See their link for a complete list of runs.

CarolinaTrail Runner
Carolina Trail Runner & Mountain Biker Meetup group. All skill levels and various runs. All off road. The new home of the "Almost 10k" group runs.

Icoachurun - Fort Mill
icoachurun run group in Fort Mill/Tega Cay area. They have several meeting times. Currently Tuesday am (545) and Sunday am (730) They are adding more times in January. All levels of running, walk/run beginners to marathon finishers. Led by club member Jamie Dodge

Fort Mill Fast Feet
All levels of runners are invited, some are 7min pace, most are 9-10min pace all the way to a few 12min pace.
Saturday at 8AM, run from Fort Mill YMCA in Baxter Village.
Tuesday at 9:15AM at the Gold Hill YMCA, Tega Cay.
Monday at 6PM at the Fort Mill YMCA in Baxter Village.
Contact club member Paige Kell

Charlotte Firecracker 5k - CRC Water Stop Assistance Needed

2011-06-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

Start 2 Finish Charlotte presents the 1st Annual Charlotte Firecracker 5k and Fun Run. The race will be held July 3, 2011 starting at 7:00pm. The run will start on Windyrush Road next to Olde Providence Elementary School and end at the Windyrush Country Club pool. The 5k is chip-timed using the state-of-the-art Jaguar timing system. The 1/2 mile fun run will start at 7:45 from the finish line.

Join us after the race for a pool party, music, food and drinks. Entry fees for the 5k are $20 through 6/26/11, $25 after 6/26/11, and $30 race day. Family fun run fees are $10 through 6/26/11, $12 after 6/26/11, and $15 race day.

Proceeds will benefit the Olde Providence Elementary School Foundation. Please visit our website for more information and to register: www.charlottefirecracker5k.com. Contact Rachel with any questions 908-216-8920 or rachel@s2fcharlotte.com.

Charlotte Running Club will be helping with water distribution during the event at the 1.5 mile mark. We would love to get some assistance from as many of you as we can. Contact run.charlotte@gmail.com if you can assist. Thank you.

June 25 Charlotte Area Race Options

2011-06-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

Lots of race options the weekend of 6/25 as you can see on our website race calendar:
http://charlotterunningclub.racesonline.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=site.display&page_id=4257

1)
For something a tad bit different, head on down to Rock Hill to Westminister park for a trail 15k or enter the 5k. http://milesformarines.org

Don't want to run? How about helping out? Contact Aaron Linz (amlinz@yahoo.com ) if you can help before/during or after the race. Thx u and hope to see u there.

2)
Another nice option is the LifeStyle Upgrade 5k up in Huntersville, NC. Our very own Megan Hovis and Kelly Fillnow work for LifeStyle Upgrade and I am sure welcome seeing alot of you up at this race.

Best of luck to all of you that race.

Masters Smackdown

2011-06-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

In the Summer Breeze 5k, CRC is entering a Mixed Masters team - the 5 fastest times count. We thought there would be separate men's and women's masters teams, and these people signed up:

Gordon Bynum, Butch Holt, Michael Lemmons, Allen Strickland, Clayton Venhuizen
Dianne Allen, Beth Carey, Eimear Goggin, Kathy Rink, Deb Rubinich

To add some excitement to my bland existence, here's a challenge to the men's masters - I bet the average # of Grand Prix points earned by these masters women is higher than the average for the men. The winning team gets bragging rights, or BEER, or Credit in Heaven (I guess you need an Irish Catholic upbringing for that to work, though ... )

So, there's my challenge ... of course if the guys are scared to take it on, that's perfectly understandable ...

New Summer Schedule for the Charlotte Kids Running Club

2011-06-14T17:07:00.001-07:00

We hope to encourage kids in the Charlotte community to lead a healthy lifestyle - by being active, setting goals and encouraging one another. Charlotte Running Club has its own Kids' Section - it doesn't matter if you are a beginner or have already run a 5k, all ages and abilities are welcome!

Look for the Charlotte Kids Running Club on facebook and request to join (with your name and your child/children's name; or show up at a run and ask Rebecca to add you.

New summer schedule: meet Mondays at 9:30 am at Latta Park. The kids run on a marked and monitored course. and after, if they want, they can stay and play in the splash ground - so they should bring a towel if they want to stay and splash! Also, the ice-cream truck comes at 10:30, so if they want a frosty treat, they should bring a dollar or two.

Contact: Rebecca Thomason runnergirl@carolina.rr.com

call 704-458-5594 if you need directions

For more information: kids.run.charlotte@gmail.com

Charlotte dominates Running Journal Grand Prix Series

2011-06-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

The Charlotte Running Community did fantastic in the Running Journal Grand Prix series (http://running.net) that just ended this past Monday (Memorial Day) in Huntsville, Alabama.

The RJ GP is a series of ten races held throughout several Southeast states and all runners who live in those states are eligible for the GP. There are three races in NC (Charlotte Racefest 10k, Southpark Turkey Trot, and Asheville Citizen-Times Half Marathon), two in South Carolina (Myrtle Beach Half Marathon and Midnight Flight 10k in Anderson), one in Tennessee (Germantown Half Marathon in Memphis), one in Florida (Gate River Run 15k), and three in Alabama (Rocket City Marathon and Vulcan Run 10k in Birmingham and the Cotton Row Run 10k in Huntsville).

Only the top 8 runners in each age group receive points in each race, and for overall only the top 20 runners (M/F) in each race receive points. Here's a link where you can get a better idea of how points are counted:
http://running.net/grand-prix-xxxiii-rules

We had 7 winners from the Charlotte area this year including the top 2 overall male and female (Alejandro Arreola and Alice Rogers). This is the 33rd year of the RJ Grand Prix.

Here are the other Charlotte area winners for this year:
Richard Hefner -- 1st place, 55-59 age group
Jerry Sofley -- 1st place, 60-64 age group
Bob Heck -- 2nd place, 40-44 age group
Bob Nelson -- 2nd place, 55-59 age group
Margaret Hagerty -- 1st place overall Veteran Female

Field Trip!

2011-05-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

The Fabulous Thursday Night Group (TM; 6:00 pm from the Charlotte Running Company) is making a field trip Thursday (June 2) to run at the Whitewater Center – followed by music, beer, food, talk. If you’d like to join us, please do – car-pooling may be available, as several people have parking passes.

Logistics:
Meet at 6:00 pm at the main trailhead entrance (top right hand corner of the map)
We'll synchronize our watches and arrange to meet up again at 7:00 or some reasonable time - there will be someone to run with if you like - then beer and music and competitive comparing of injuries.

Eimear emgoggin@gmail.com

Drinking Beer for a Good Cause

2011-05-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

OMB Copper Classic Run for Pints for Prostates Boosts Men’s Health Awareness in Charlotte

Charlotte, N.C. – The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and Pints for Prostates are joining forces on May 21 to help raise awareness about prostate cancer and generate funds to fight the disease that one in six American men will face.

The OMB Copper Classic Run for Pints for Prostates is a fun 1,000 yard dash around the block followed by beer, food, music and fun at the brewery. This is the second year Olde Mecklenburg Brewery is hosting a run to fight prostate cancer. For $25 runners get a race t-shirt, two pints of fresh beer, great food, music and fun.

Runners must register in advance for the event. Information is available at the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery online store at http://store.oldemeckbrew.com/. The brewery is located at 215 Southside Dr. in Charlotte. Check-in for the event starts on May 21 at 10 a.m., with the race at Noon. The event continues until 4 p.m.

“The OMB Copper Classic is a very fun 1,000 dash. A similar event packed the brewery last year. You don’t have to be much of an athlete to take part and it benefits a great cause,” said John Marrino of Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. “Pints for Prostates is spreading the word across the country and this is a perfect opportunity for Olde Mecklenburg Brewery to bring this important message to Charlotte.”

Pints for Prostates will have an information table at the event, along with t-shirts, hats and a raffle for a nine-night trip for two to Prague, Bamberg and Munich for Oktoberfest. The Victor James Band will provide live music during the event.

“Pints for Prostates really appreciates the support of Olde Mecklenburg Brewing. It is a fun event with a serious message about men’s health,” said Rick Lyke, a Charlotte marketing executive and beer writer who founded Pints for Prostates in 2008 after successful prostate cancer surgery. “Few people realize that men are 33 percent more likely to face prostate cancer than women are to develop breast cancer. With early detection and proper treatment, the disease is nearly 100 percent survivable, but last year 32,000 American men died from prostate cancer. Men need to take charge of their health and start having regular prostate health screenings and PSA tests at age 40.”

“Prostate cancer is about 30 years behind breast cancer in terms of awareness and social standing. The pink ribbon can be found on everything from cat food to wine, but the blue ribbon for prostate cancer awareness is on very few products as a reminder to men,” Lyke said. “Olde Mecklenburg Brewing is really stepping up to the plate to help guys.”

During the last two years more than 100 Pints for Prostates events have been held, organized by volunteers and often hosted on a local level at breweries, restaurants or brewpubs. Those wishing to organize an event can get information by visiting www.pintsforprostates.org.

About Pints for Prostates
Pints for Prostates is a 501(c)3 a campaign that reaches men through the universal language of beer to encourage them to take charge of their health. The group was founded by prostate cancer survivor and beer writer Rick Lyke in 2008. The grassroots effort raises awareness among men of the importance of regular health screenings and PSA testing by making appearances at beer festivals, social networking and pro bono advertising. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 218,000 new prostate cancer cases were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2010. More information is available at www.pintsforprostates.org. Pints for Prostates also has a presence on Facebook and Twitter (@pints4prostates).

About Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (OMB), located in the heart of south Charlotte, produces premium, all natural beer and delivers it fresh weekly to bars, restaurants and retailers in the region. The brewery made its first beer in 2009 and adheres strictly to the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law of 1516). OMB uses only the finest ingredients available worldwide and employs traditional, intensive brewing methods to transform them into world class beer that’s full-flavored yet amazingly refreshing.

Twillight Masters Team

2011-05-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

If you'll be at the Twilight 5k on Friday evening, please save some breath to support the CRC Mixed Masters Team consisting of

Rob Ducsay, Gordon Bynum, Clayton Venhuisen, Leonard Hilliard, Stephen Spada, Kathy Rink, John Fyfe & Eimear Goggin, with non-racing coach Allen Strickland.

Clayton just barely made it onto the masters team - Happy Birthday! :-)

Congratulations, Ms. Thompson!

2011-05-05T07:37:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday at the Running Club Social, Ms. Harriette Thompson was presented with the Brown Cup, for her many achievements in overcoming adversity in her running and non-running lives. Ms. Thompson, a cancer survivor, has completed the San Diego Rock & Roll marathon 12 times since 1999, raising over $75,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The Brown Cup was created in part to raise awareness about the bone marrow donor registry. Click HERE to find out more about the registry & to sign up.

Congratulations, Ms. Thompson!

You too can have a social life!

2011-04-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

The Annual Social is THIS Saturday, April 30th, from 7:00 to 11:30 pm, in the French Quarter, 321 S. Church Street, Charlotte. Free for Club members, $10 for non- members; appetizers provided, but buy your own drinks ... or find someone else to buy them for you ... ;-)

The presentation of the Brown Cup award, to an athlete who, while overcoming adversity, has shown dedication, determination, discipline and sportspersonship, is scheduled for 9:00 pm, after which there will be a DJ and DANCING.

RSVP on the facebook page (sorry - I tried to copy the link and ended up rsvp-ing myself by accident.)

Runner in the Spotlight: Bill Shires

2011-04-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

Where do you work?
I work as a Software Architect for Fidelity Information Systems

How long have you been in Charlotte? What brought you here?
I came to Charlotte, NC in 1989 to finish my college education after taking a few years off to work.

What’s your favorite restaurant and why should I go eat there?
Since I am a runner, I do love pasta and salad. There is an Olive Garden near my house so I am always dropping by to load up on carbs.

When and why did you start running?
In high school, we would run to stay in shape for the more traditional stick and ball sports. Then, one spring one of our coaches challenged us to run the hometown race. I remember hitting the first mile in 7:30 and was gulping for air. I thought I would die but I ended up finishing in 44 minutes for the 10k.

You are known as the Godfather amongst members of the CRC. Can you explain why?
I will have to give credit for the naming to Ben Hovis. We were on a run at Ann Springs and he said it. From this on, it just kind of stuck.

What are some things you love most about running?
Aside from meeting new people, running is like an adventure story. Each day my runs give me an opportunity to explore the world.

Favorite Place you’ve traveled and loved for running?
I always like running near water so I would have to say Key West. I can run in the morning and watch the sun rise over the Atlantic and then do a 2nd run to watch it set over the Gulf of Mexico.

What is your most memorable race and why?
It was an 8k in Virginia many years ago. I took off with the leaders. It was one of those days where everything was clicking and I didn't feel any pain. I just ran. I set a PR that day of 26:15.

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
There are several places that I like to run but I would have to say my favorite is running at McAlpine. It is probably the only place in Charlotte, I can string together more than one mile of terrain.

Favorite Charlotte area race?
Darn, this is a hard one. I would have to say Blue Points. I don’t know why but I always seem to run well on that course.

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
In the last few, it has become the Marathon. My PR is 2:36:07

What are your goals for 2011?
Well, my biggest goal of ’11 is to run the Boston Marathon. This will be my run of Boston so I hope that I have trained well enough to have a good showing.

What compelled you to join the Charlotte Running Club?
Running clubs tend to go through cycles and running clubs in Charlotte had been in a down cycle for a few years. Then along came CRC and suddenly people were getting excited about running again and training together. I felt like if I wanted to keep improving the people in this club would help me do it so I joined up. I have to say that so far I have been right. They have been great motivators.

What’s your next race?
My next race will be the Boston Marathon on April 18, 2011

You haven’t missed a day of running since 1986. How were you able to make that a reality?
I had been running for about 3 years and would frequently take days off running. But after finishing 2nd in a race, I came home and said to myself “If I want to improve, I need to run every day”. That was in Oct of ’86. Since then, I have run every day. Sometimes, it was a little as mile if I was sick or injured, but I always pushed through it.

How do you run so much mileage?
I was never blessed with blazing speed that some runners have. I always seem to do better by logging a lot of miles and running the tough workouts. So while I have never run really fast times, neither have my times fallen off much through the years.

How do you stay away from injuries?
This is a tough question to answer. Everyone is different in the type of workouts that will push them closer to being injured. But when I do come down with an injury, I make it a point to learn about it and add something new to my routine that helps prevent it.

What is your best tip for other runners?
Don’t push too hard too early in your training cycles. Learn to listen to your body and let your body tell you how hard is hard enough. In reality the true key to improving is not running your workouts really fast or doing 30 mile long runs, but being able to run every day.

twelve in twelve!

2011-04-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

One family decides to make a difference ... JD Lewis and his sons will travel to 12 countries in 12 months doing humanitarian work, making a documentary of their travels with the intention of inspiring others to make similar trips. The itinerary is: Russia, India, China, Cambodia, Senegal, Rwanda, Tanzania, Australia, South Georgia Island, Paraguay, Peru and Haiti. After that, they will live in Mississippi for a month to document poverty in this country.

JD says: the goal is to set up “The Twelve in Twelve Network”. We will establish a resource to help guide and assist people who are interested in doing global relief work. Our organization will serve as a “One-Stop” resource, for everything to do with humanitarian relief work. Please join us as the Lewis boys travel all seven continents, from country to country. We will be posting video and written blogs along the way with what we have learned, discovered, experienced, and how we are attempting to make a difference.

Check out the benefit 12k trail race at the Whitewater Center, with an awesome prize for the fastest runner (an all-inclusive trip for 2 to the Caribbean Sandals of their choice); a 1.2 mile "bunny hop" for the kids, and an Easter Egg hunt! It's Saturday April 23rd - a fun-filled day for all the family, with music by great local and regional artists too.

http://usnwc.org/2010/11/12k-for-twelve-in-twelve

Boston Send-Off Party

2011-03-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

BOSTON MARATHON SEND-OFF PARTY!!

SATURDAY APRIL 9th 9:30 - 11:00 am
@ DILWORTH RFYL

bagels & coffee

Boston Adidas apparel to raffle off

get an intimate look at Boston from store owner and Boston finisher ... Tim Rhodes!

rsvp kim@runforyourlife.com Kim Bruno RFYL, 2422 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203

www.runforyourlife.com

A World Record-Sized Thank You

2011-03-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

This will probably be the most difficult blog I've ever written, because I honestly don't think there are words that can accurately describe my feelings about this past weekend's 100x5k World Record Attempt.

When I look back on the events of this past weekend, the biggest thing that stands out to me is what a turning point this experience was for Charlotte Running Club. Truly, I can say this was a team effort and I think that everyone who was a part of it would agree. This wouldn't have happened without the efforts of every single person involved. This past weekend, Charlotte Running Club went from being a collective of individual runners to being a team and for me personally, it was awe-inspiring to watch. So many new friendships were formed. People put themselves through lack of sleep, time away from family, being outside in miserable weather and many probably deviated from their training plans all just so we could meet our collective goal. Thank you just isn't sufficient, but know it is meant with the deepest sincerity.

There are some individuals that should be thanked specifically. Ben Hovis was the mastermind behind the plan and sacrificed hours of what I'm sure was an organizational nightmare and he did a fantastic job. Aaron Linz put up the initial money for the timing system and was a fearless leader all weekend (and posted one of the fastest times of the event!). Providence Day School was gracious enough to let us use their facilities to host the event. The guys from Lee Timing, LLC were incredibly professional and stayed positive the whole time although they got very little sleep. Charlotte Running Company provided the awesome T-shirts commemorating the event.

To everyone that ran a leg of this event, I am just blown away by how smoothly everything went. Everyone showed up on time and ready to run, regardless of time of day or the conditions they were faced with. To all alternates, thank you for your flexibility and willingness to jump in at a moment's notice. To everyone that volunteered and supported, this event TRULY would not have happened without you! I, for one, learned that counting laps is not as easy as it looks! To spouses, significant others and kids of people involved, thank you for understanding how deep our passion is for running.

This past weekend will not be one I will soon forget, so I will say once more, even though it just doesn't sound like enough, on behalf of the board of Charlotte Running Club, to everyone involved...

Thank you!

Emily Barrett
Social Director

Runner in the Spotlight: Melinda Law

2011-03-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Where do you work?

I am the Communications & Media Relations Manager at Johnson & Wales University.

How long have you been in Charlotte? What brought you here?

The stork. :) I am a Charlotte native! I graduated South Meck in 1986.

What’s your favorite restaurant and why should I go eat there? Hummm. I work for a university that is known for its culinary program, so some of my chef instructor co-workers may sputter at this one, but I must say, the neighborhood Brixx (Foxcroft) is a favorite. They’re friendly, fast, they have cold, Blue Moon on draft and their food is predictable…meaning, it’s always good!

When and why did you start running?

Probably because I was lazy and gained weight in college! After graduating, I worked in television news and knew I needed to stay in shape. Then I kicked it up a notch and started running races in about 2004. I’ve always been somewhat athletic and a little competitive. I grew up cheerleading, playing soccer and softball and always liked the outdoors. But for some reason, I was never interested in joining track in high school or college. None of my close friends were runners.

Running is something I discovered later in life. I am definitely more competitive now and I’m faster than ever. I’m 43-years-old. It’s a nice feeling to hit PRs and know I’m faster now than when I was in my 20’s. I have to give credit to my boyfriend, Brad Koch. He’s a runner and he’s crazy fast with a six-plus minute pace, so he knows what he’s doing and I trust him. Over the years, he’s developed running plans for me to help improve my time. He’s a marathoner. I’m a half-marathoner. That’s enough for me! I’m glad we share a common, healthy passion. I plan to continue running forever – especially because I work at a university known for its culinary and baking & pastry programs!

You have high blood pressure. Can you explain how (if at all) running has helped you combat that?

I should say a special thank-you to my grandmother, my aunt, my mother... :o)

I inherited it. I’m not overweight and I’ve been running for years, so it’s not fair! Fortunately, it’s not off the charts. I only take 5mg of meds a day, but still! My primary doctor isn’t concerned and says the running definitely will help keep it down. Fortunately, I haven’t had to ever increase my dosage. According to the American Heart Association, “Regular aerobic activities can lower blood pressure.” And according to WebMD, “Aerobic exercise has the most benefits for your heart. Over time, aerobic exercise can help decrease your heart rate and blood pressure and improve your breathing.”

What are some things you love most about running?

Tapering before a big race. Oh wait, not really, well…

It’s my only alone time! I like that I can run and just think or I can run and choose to tune out all the “noise” of the day. It’s great to just zone out. Other times, I’m mapping out my calendar in my head or creating a to-do list. It’s something that you can do anywhere, anytime. I REALLY like running alone and in the morning. I wouldn’t like having someone waiting for me or vice versa. If I wake up earlier than the alarm, I can go. If I don’t feel well or want to put it off until the afternoon, I can – usually. I do have to schedule my runs though. I have two small children and I work full-time.

Favorite Place you’ve traveled and loved for running?

The N.C. coast! It’s flat! Seriously, I graduated from UNC-Wilmington and have a love for Eastern North Carolina. I don’t like to run on the sand, but there is nothing like running through a coastal community. The smells of low tide, the flat routes, the scenery…Wrightsville Beach especially. I just ran the Quintiles half marathon. It’s fun to run around the area where you attended college and see all the changes or those old haunts that are still there! I love the S.C. coast too…I LOVE Folly Beach and Hilton Head. What beautiful areas!

What is your most memorable race and why?

Charlotte’s Race Fest.

Not sure what year, but you won’t find it! I’m bad with dates, but this one I definitely try to forget. It was HUMID. I don’t do humidity well. It was a miserable run. I distinctly remember crossing Fairview along the race route, removing my chip and throwing it into the woods! (I know, I know, I failed miserably as a conscientious runner. I littered!) That’s why you won’t find my time. It was a $90 race, because of the tossed chip, that Brad so kindly sponsored and we STILL talk about it. He immediately called his running buddy and they had a good laugh. I was mad all day. We just laughed about this on the way back from the Quintiles race. I told him I should run Race Fest this April and I’ll try and make it up to him – and to myself!

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?

South Charlotte and Dilworth areas are awesome. Long runs on Fairview, Park Road, Sharon Roads, Queen, Selwyn and/or Providence roads…I feel very fortunate that Charlotte has so many nice sidewalks. Although I must say, in the older parts of Charlotte, I keep my eyes on the sidewalk cracks. I’ve fallen hard on my knees in places where tree roots are causing the sidewalks to crack, such as Queens Road. It didn’t help it was about 4:30 a.m. and was pitch dark! Bit it on Fairview too, near Carmel Road.

Favorite Charlotte area race?

Definitely the Yoasou Greek Festival because of the beautiful neighborhoods. It’s just a fun race, before and after! It’s in August, so it’s hot, but it’s a great course. (The Hog Jog races are fun - and funny - because my daughters, ages 6 and 8, run around with pig noses on. My 8-year old won for the girls during the short kids race this year!)

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?

I don’t mean to sound lazy, but the 5Ks are really fun. My best time is a 7:44 pace for the Greek Fest. I ran 8:06 pace during the September ’10 Hog Jog.

What are your goals for 2011?

Work on a PR for my next half marathon. I’m trying to break 1:54:01. I would like to pick up speed for the local 5 and 10Ks. I want to just keep running and try to get to yoga once a week.

What compelled you to join the Charlotte Running Club?

Brad is always trying to help educate me on runners, the newest clothing and races in the Charlotte area. He found the Club first and then signed us both up! I’m excited to be featured in “Runner in the Spotlight.” It seems like most articles I run across, or magazines I pick up, are about elites or hard-core athletes. I think it’s important to also read items about recreational runners, like me, who juggle jobs, kids and blended families. I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot by getting out there three to four days a week. I’m proud to have my young daughters watch me cross the finish line. Now they are interested in running.

What’s your next race?

Akron Half Marathon, September 24. Don’t ask me why. Just tagging along with Brad. MAYBE Race Fest – bad vibes though. Stay tuned.

CRC: World Record Holder!

2011-03-27T14:45:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Running Club's 100x5k World Record is in the bag! With an average 5k time of 18:30 (5:58/mile), our club runners brought this one home decisively! Huge congratulations to all the runners who didn't let rain or wind or darkness or cold hold them back. Also many thanks to all that came out to support us!

The Museum Mile

2011-03-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

CHARLOTTE MUSEUM MILE TO BE RUN IN UPTOWN CHARLOTTE ON APRIL 23, 2011
Race Presented by Hendrick BMW, Hendrick Mini and HendrickCars.com

On April 23, 2011, starting between 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., near the corner of 12th Street and North Tryon, participants will run 5,280 feet passing the McColl Center for Visual Art, Discovery Place, and Spirit Square, and ending in front of the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Mint Museum of Art. Levine Avenue of the Arts will be closed for post-race festivities. The Charlotte Museum Mile will benefit the Arts & Science Council. Entry fee for the race is $25.
Runners will be divided into age and gender categories based on projected running time, with races starting every 10-15 minutes. An official pace car and clocks every ¼ mile will alert runners to their pace. The fastest runners in each division will receive medals with the overall winners will receive cash prized and be crowned the Fastest Man in Charlotte™ and Fastest Woman in Charlotte™. Any man or woman breaking the world record will win a BMW 1 Series convertible provided by Hendrick BMW. Each participant will receive a performance race shirt designed by Charlotte artist Ashley Lathe.

Runners can registers at http://www.QueenCityTiming.com/.
If you would like more information about the Charlotte Museum Mile, please visit our website http://www.charlottemuseummile.com/ or contact Marc Gustafson at (704) 724-0440 or marcgustafson@hotmail.com.

Running with the Leprechauns

2011-03-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day, March 17th, 6:00pm - The St. Patrick's Day Run/Sharksbite Revival/Run with the Leprechauns from the Charlotte Running Company was a great success! Thanks to Scott for letting us take over, and to Dana for coming up with a great box of prizes and the clock and the water and everything.

Thanks to Bill Shires and the other Proper Runners TM for coming out and adding to the air of athletic seriousness, and to the UNC Charlotte runners (Jon and Carolyn and Frank) who ventured out, and to Audra of the original Sharksbite group, and to The Usual (Thursday) Suspects especially Susi and Jeri who brought ... liquid carbs ... and to everyone who showed up - hope to see you all again soon.

That was just a regular Thursday night for us ... no REALLY!

Eimear, emgoggin at gmail

Like to Breathe?

2011-03-11T04:06:00.000-08:00

If you like to breathe when you run, then this is the event for you!

Clear Air Carolinas will host the 2nd annual x-c 5k Run For Clear Air at McAlpine Creek Park on Saturday May 14th, 2011. The goal of the event is to bring together runners and walkers to raise awareness of Charlotte's air quality and to support Clear Air Carolina's education and advocacy programs.

Register at cleanaircarolinas.org; more information on the Charlotte Running Club's website under Featured Races; and look out for upcoming contest information about how to win 2 free entries!

Omega and CRC Group Run Sunday March 6th

2011-03-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

March 6th from 2-5pm
Join Charlotte Running Club at Omega Sports (http://www.omegasports.net/locations/charlotte-arboretum.php ) in the Arboretum shopping center from 2-5pm.

Schedule
2.25pm Group picture
2.30pm Group Run – All paces welcome. We will do a 4 mile loop and then go out for an additional loop for anyone interested in a few more miles.
4pm – Raffle for 2 FREE entries into the Bulldog 5k!!! (http://www.charlotterunningclub.org/ under Featured Races for more details about this great local race)
4pm – Omega will be doing some prize drawings as well. Yahoo!!!

All CRC members will receive 10% off purchases and 10% of your purchase will go to CRC.
Mr. Hydro will be there and looking forward to seeing you. Come to run and/or come to hang out.

It's b-a-a-ck! The old Sharksbite run!

2011-03-02T04:19:00.000-08:00

OK, this is SPECIAL*. (No, really!)

If you follow Master Runner Bill Shire’s blog, you may remember a recent entry lamenting the lack of what he called “signature runs” in town, and recalling the glory days of Tim Long’s Thursday Sharksbite run from the Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. That run is still going on, and we’re having a SPECIAL* commemorative reprise on Thursday March 17th (St. Patrick's Day, for all you unfortunate non-Irish people out there). Bill is going to run, the Charlotte Running Company is on board and will arrange for a clock and water and tiny prizes (thanks, Scott and Dana!), and it’ll be more fun than you can shake a stick at (whatever THAT means ... ). Tim thinks it’s a great idea, and sent a link to the first St. Patrick’s Day run he put on here 7 years ago – do you know any of the runners? I'm making version 5.0 of my not-yet-world-famous Guinness bread with Added Antioxidants (i.e. dark chocolate) and I don't know who could ask for anything more ... oh, and there's a SPECIAL* prize if you show up in an old Sharksbite shirt!

You can enter by sending me an e-mail, or just show up (but it would be nice to have some idea of how many to expect).

Thursday March 17th, 6:00 pm, at the Charlotte Running Company, Dilworth
ALL the cool kids will be there, as well as me, Eimear, emgoggin@gmail.com

P-P-Possible Post-race Pick-me-up in Picasso's?

* your idea of SPECIAL may not be exactly the same as mine ... just sayin'

2011-02-25T06:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you to our friends at the University Run For Your Life store for hosting the Saturday morning (2.26) collaborative group run! Met some great people on a beautiful morning for running; ate some great bread; and thanks to Mizuno for the discounts!

Eimear emgoggin@gmail.com

The Charlotte Running Club Joins RRCA

2011-02-12T10:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA)!

The Charlotte Running Club recently joined the RRCA and here's a taste of what membership in America's oldest and largest national association of running clubs gets us:

Insurance:

As the club has continued to grow, it became increasingly clear that we needed insurance to protect our organization. The RRCA provides one of the best and least expensive insurance plans available, one with an obvious expertise and emphasis on running and running-related events.

The RRCA Online Community:

We're no longer an isolated entity! By joining the RRCA, our club is instantly plugged into the national running community with easy access to resources for our board of directors, coaches, event directors, and, of course, runners!

Charity Fundraising:

We hope to begin giving more to charitable organizations and the RRCA makes this easier than ever. They provide online services which will allow our club to easily collect and distribute charitable donations.

RRCA National Awards:

Our club is now eligible to receive national RRCA awards. I think this newsletter is worthy of a national award in its first year with the RRCA! See the list of awards here.

These are just a some of the services now available to us through membership in the Road Runners Club of America. Check here to learn more. Let's all take advantage of our new membership!

Runner in the Spotlight: Paul Mainwaring

2011-02-08T13:02:00.000-08:00

Paul Mainwaring is one of our favorite British Charlotte Running Club members! Known for his positive attitude, his grueling race face at the finish line, and his license plate (UKRUNNER), Paul is one of the first members of the CRC. You are likely to see him at the Run For Your Life Grand Prix Series, as he will be racing all 11 events. As a father of 2 girls, he manages to find enough time to get in high mileage that propels him to the top of the Grand Prix Series leaderboards.

Where do you work?
I work as an Accountant for Lend Lease Americas, a large Australian owned Construction and Project Management Company. I worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers after graduating in England until I gained my Accountancy qualification and then worked at fashion retailer Laura Ashley as Group Accountant until I made my move over to the States in 2005. Apart from certain times of the month and year my hours are fairly regular so I am able to fit my training in pretty easily normally.

How long have you been in Charlotte? What brought you here?
I moved over to the States and Charlotte from the UK in August 2005 courtesy of my wonderful American wife Lisa who I met in Dublin and dated in London. We got married in May 1999 and lived in and just outside London for the next 6 years before deciding to take the plunge and move over. I quit my job, we sold our house and ended up in Charlotte purely because Lisa wanted to be on the East coast near her family and we thought Charlotte looked a good place for me to get a job with my Accountancy background! Six years later we certainly don’t regret our decision!

What’s your favorite restaurant and why should I go eat there?
That’s a tough one. Being British I do love a good curry though and can highly recommend the Bombay Grille on 51 or The Situl restaurant in Park Road Shopping Center. I also love Maggiano’s and McCormick and Schmicks in South Park when I feel like pushing the boat out a little!

When and why did you start running?
Many people will be surprised to hear that I didn’t really consider myself a ‘runner’ until my mid to late 20s. Prior to that I had played football (soccer!) pretty much all my life and used that as my sporting outlet. I would play for teams at the weekend and train during the week. I would run once or twice a week just to maintain fitness and help keep the beers off my belly! As time went on and my schedule got tighter I was finding playing football every week to be a bit too time consuming and was also finding it harder to recover from games as I got older! So with a heavy heart I quit playing football and started running a lot more. Soon I was running 4 or 5 times a week and it snowballed from there. I joined a local track and cross country team and that was that! Sometimes I wish I had taken up the sport earlier and been able to run at College but then I would have missed out on all the great times I had playing football.

What are some things you love most about running?
One of the main things I love, as I referred to above, is that running doesn't need to take up too much time out of your schedule. You just need to pull on a pair of shoes and take off. With a young family to look after this is certainly a big plus! I also just love the feeling of just being out there and pushing my body to its limits, rain, heat or snow. I love being able to run on my own and clear my head and also love running with other like minded people for the social aspect. Having spent most of my sporting life playing a team sport I really enjoy the individual aspect of running in that you are mostly only accountable to yourself and aren't relying on others to help you perform well - what you put into running is what you get out of it, a great metaphor for life in general.

Favorite Place you’ve traveled and loved for running?
One of the many great things about running is that you just need a pair of shoes and you can take off for a run wherever you are. I’ve never specifically travelled to a destination to run but I have travelled quite extensively and have enjoyed runs alongside the Opera House in Sydney, Central Park New York, along the Seine in Paris, and through the center of London. For the sheer beauty and ‘being away from it all’ feeling I love running in the countryside around where my parents live and running in Banff in the Canadian Rockies was awesome too.

What is your most memorable race and why?
My most memorable race from my time in England would have to be running in the National Cross Country Championships one year. It was awesome to run in a such a big race with all the best runners in the country and the crowd support and atmosphere was amazing! Over here I would have to say that last year provided my two most memorable races. Coming 7th overall and running a huge PR at the Richmond Marathon after months of hard training was a fantastic experience and tremendously satisfying, as was running the Blue Ridge Relay on the all-conquering Charlotte Running Club Mixed Team back in September. Blue Ridge was such a fun and challenging experience and I really hope to compete in that event again this year with CRC. (Editor's note: the CRC will be organizing several Blue Ridge teams for 2011!)

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
I would have to say Mcalpine is my favorite place to run as I live less than half a mile from the park and run there all the time! I also love running at McMullen Creek Greenway and around the beautiful Myers Park neighborhoods.

Favorite Charlotte area race?
The Thunder Road Marathon takes some beating. I have competed twice and spectated every other year and it's a great date in the Charlotte running calendar. My favorite Grand Prix race would have to be the Lung Strong 15k run out at Cornelius; it features a beautiful course and a fun event.

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
I don't really have a favorite distance as such, it depends what I have been training for and whether I want to run hard and fast in a 5k (PR 15:45) or hard and long in a Marathon (PR 2:35:10)

What are your goals for 2011?
I am planning on concentrating on shorter distances this year and hope to run PRs in races from the 5k to Half Marathon distance. I probably won't do a marathon this year. After a solid year of mileage in 2010 I would love to remain injury free this year and also meet and run with more and more people from the Charlotte Running Club!

You were one of the first members of the CRC. What compelled you to join the Charlotte Running Club?
That's right! I remember about a year ago discussing the possibility of creating a new running club in Charlotte on a long run with Jay, Caitlin and Aaron and within weeks the ball was rolling and CRC was formed! I had to join immediately so that I could meet up and train with like minded people and share my love of running. My favorite runs of the week are when I run any of the CRC group runs.

I love the fact that the Club is all about a passion for running and welcomes people of all backgrounds and abilities all with different goals for what they want to get from their running. I love running and being able to share that passion with other like minded folks is awesome!

What’s your next race?
I am entered in the Richmond Ukrops 10k in April and will no doubt be a regular participant in the RFYL Grand Prix Series.

Weekend Group Run Options (Feb 5-6)

2011-02-02T17:34:00.000-08:00

Hey members and non members that want to join us. So many good running options this weekend that wanted to share them all with you. The regularly posted runs are listed below. All of them are really good options so read thru them and see if any fit your desires.

UNCC 5k - go racers!!! Take some pictures please too and share them with us (run.charlotte@gmail.com )

Sat 6:15am and 7am pickups Saturday at Dowd Y back porch. Contact amlinz@yahoo.com 7-7:30 pace...early folks going 20 miles. Later folks 13-15 miles. Good crew of fast ladies on this one and a few fellas tagging along for the ride.

Sat 8:15a from Old Bell entrance of McAlpine - if you want to hang with the fastest crew in town (other than the folks racing at UNCC 5k), come give these guys a try. Too fast for me this Saturday but good stuff. 15 min warm-up, 8:30am - will do the tempo from the start to the 4 mile mark and back (8 mile tempo), then 1 mile and 1,000m Contact Paul Mainwaring at mainersusa@yahoo.com

Sunday - TrySports/Craft event. All the details at link below. There will be an all paces group run shortly after 2pm. The event lasts until 5pm. Aaron Linz will lead an all paces group run from the store for a 3-4 mile loop. Those craving more, we will do another loop or two. Burn some calories pre-superbowl!!!
http://charlotterunningclub.blogspot.com/2011/01/crc-event-at-trysports-with-craft.html

Regular Group Runs (these are all established an well attended runs. contact group leaders ahead of time just in case and/or if you want more details)

Saturday
6:30am From Queens and Providence Road (the gold statue guy - good parking) 9:30+ pace for 8-12 miles. Contact Fred Wood fmwjr@yahoo.com

7:00am From the Caribou Coffee at Cochran Commons in University. All paces welcome. Contact University City Road Runners ucrun.com

7:00am From the East Blvd. entrance to Freedom Park; 8+ miles @ 8 pace or 8+ miles @ 9 pace; run the 8-mile loop or continue on for more miles. Contact caleb_boyd@yahoo.com or Chris Bradle chris@endurobrand.com

7:30am From Track Behind Barnette Elementary and Bradley Middle School off Beatties Ford Rd. Contact Todd Mayes todd.mayes@gmail.com

Sunday
6:00am From Downtown Davidson CVS. 10+ miles @ 8 +/- pace. Headlamp recommended. Coffee at Summit Coffee post-run. Contact Chad Randolph davidsonarearunningteam@gmail.com

7:30am From the main parking lot of McAlpine Park, 8711 Monroe Rd. Stop in lot every 4-5 miles for hydration/nutrition. All paces welcome. We park in the lower left hand corner of the lot, near where a water fountain is located. Please be there a few minutes before 7:30, especially if you need to use the restrooms. Contact Larry Seavers larry.seavers1@gmail.com or Tom Torkildsen Tom.Torkildsen@wellsfargo.com

CRC Board Retreat Summary

2011-01-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

Noting that the club was growing rapidly and recognizing that a sustainability plan would ensure the club exists beyond the terms of the current board members, the Charlotte Running Club Board of Directors headed to Asheville, Saturday to develop a fresh mission statement and a clear vision plan. With members now paying dues, the board also discussed important budget issues and the importance of transparency when it comes to spending club money. And we hashed out a rough draft of a 2011 calendar.

Before summarzing the details of the retreat, I want to let everyone know that no club funds were used for this trip. Board members paid for their own lodging and food. A remote location was chosen so the board would be focused and without distraction.

First, our broad vision and mission. While each is brief and distinct, what we came up with was one of the more time consuming tasks and lead to some of the most vigorous debate. Before we could really define what who we are, we had to agree on what we wanted to be and what direction the club was going to go in. One topic we dwelled on at length was objectivity. After much discussion, we agreed that the club was to not take stances on running related issues that skew political. The most recent and easiest example to share is the proposed paving of parts of McAlpine Greenway. While we realize that this is an issue runners may feel passionate about, it will not be in our best interest to take a stance. However, we will do everything we can to promote awareness of this issue and others like it. Furthermore, we will encourage members to get involved and share their opinions when running related issues, debates or challenges arise in the Charlotte community.

The Charlotte Running Club's Vision is to promote a passion for running.

With that statement in place, we were able to move on to future business. All decisions were made by determining if the course of action being discussed fit into the above mission. Our next step was to define a mission; what we hoped the club would achieve for its members.

The Charlotte Running Club's Mission is:

*Help members become more consistent

*Motivate

*Create a sense of comaradarie

*Help members meet running goals.

While it was the final exercise of a nearly eight hour day, perhaps the most important discussion we had was about our one, three and five year plans. We were able to narrow it down to seven broad goals for 2011, five for 2014 and three for 2016. Goals are not listed in order of priority.

2011 Goals:
*Set world record in 5K X 100 relay competition

*Expand team competitions

*Establish regulary scheduled and consistent social events

*Launch an annual race

*Appoint a volunteer coordinator

*Begin developing relationships with other regional and national running clubs

*Develop a system of ordering and distributing branded apparrel.

2014 Goals
*Have an established annual race

*Have a defined mentor/coaching system in place

*Purchase a race timing system

*Have a system for measuring success of group runs

*Have criteria in place for relationships with local and national vendors interested in sponsorship/partnership.

2016 Goals
*Have a firm sustainable management structure

*Be a regionally recognized and respected running club

*Field a sponsored elite team

In setting these goals, the board discussed things we were good at and things that needed improvement. We agreed that we were good at helping runners improve and remain consistant. We were good at motivating runners to come to work outs or try to chase a personal best in an upcoming race. We are good at helping runners reach personal goals. We are good at promoting comradarie. We are good at organizing team events.

On the flip side, we need to work on including more of our members. We realize the is a perception of elitism and that the onus is on the leadership to shed that perception. We are not an exclusive club. We tend to focus on competition and need to do a better job of making more of our group runs fun. We have not done a good job at building a sustainable leadership structure. As a side conversation, we identified runners within in the club that may be suited for leadership roles and board positions in the future. We need to do a better job at fielding multiple teams at team events (i.e. Corporate Cup, Blue Ridge Relay). We excel at fielding one team, but then leave others out.

Along with mission and vision, the board also moved to purchase membership in the Road Runners Club of America. The primary benefit of our membership in the organization is the liability insurance. It allows to hold group functions in a safe and responsible manor. Cost for the board is $150. The insurance will cost roughly $1,000. An exact figure will be communicated to the general membership when the transaction has been completed. As an RRCA member, we will be required to have bi-laws, a bi-annual election of board members and open meetings where all due-paying club members are welcome to attend.
Along with RRCA, we moved to renew our membership with USA Track and Field for three years at a cost of $180. This allows us to compete in team competitions and championships at the club level at USATF sanctioned events.

With membership dues continuing to come in, we etched out a spending plan for the remainder of 2011.

Some expenditures include:
*$200 for food and refreshments at group runs
*$1500-$2000 for an annual social (details to be discussed at a separate meeting)
*$500 for a fall social
*$400 for rental of McAlpine Park for marquee race

(funds are based on a 300 member projection. We are currently at 220+ paid members)

Finally, we planned out a tentative social schedule for the remainder of 2011. Details of events to come in the near future:
•Feb 6 -- TrySports/Craft event 2-5pm -- TrySports Charlotte @ Blakeney Shopping Center, details at the Club blog here.
•Feb 13 -- Freedom Park -- 5.30pm -- Valentines Day Run. No one left behind! We will have a sweeper and will divide into pace groups.
•Mar 13 -- Freedom Park -- 5.30pm -- Saint Patricks Day Run. No one left behind! We will have a sweeper and will divide into pace groups.
•Apr 30 -- Annual club social (details to come in early spring!)
•May 5 -- Cinco de Mayo Run -- Dilworth Neighborhood Grille.
•May 7 -- CRC club birthday! -- First Annual 5k at McAlpine.
•June 18 -- CRC family picnic in Freedom Park.
•July 2 -- Fireworks group run in SC.
•Aug 20 -- Marathon Social.
•Sept 11 -- Beer Mile. (Leave your camera at home...)
•Oct 23 -- Freedom Park -- 5.30pm -- Halloween Group Run. No one left behind! We will have a sweeper and will divide into pace groups.
•Nov 20-- Freedom Park -- 5.30pm -- Food Drive Group Run. No one left behind! We will have a sweeper and will divide into pace groups.
•Dec 18 – Freedom Park -- 5.30pm -- Holiday Lights Group Run. No one left behind! We will have a sweeper and will divide into pace groups.

There were so many side discussions and ideas that came out of this retreat; far too many to list here. However, we all took detailed notes and would be happy to share any details with any club member who'd like to learn more. Please don't hesitate to contact myself or anyone else on the board with any questions, suggestions or input by emailing run.charlotte@gmail.com -- jay

CRC Event at TrySports with Craft Giveaways!

2011-01-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

Are you in the need of new spring gear? Are your running shoes getting old after sloshing through all the snow and ice this winter? The Charlotte Running Club is partnering with Craft's Field Marketing Manager Meagan Nedlo and with TrySports of Charlotte to offer our club members a fun-filled day at the store, complete with a prize drawing for running related goodies, including CRC hats, hammer nutrition, Craft technical tees, Zulu socks, and other fun items.

There will be a group run at 2pm from the store front for all pace groups and Meagan Nedlo will be providing Craft gear for you to run in and test out. Don't forget about the discounts that TrySports will be offering exclusively to CRC members. Remember this will be on Super Bowl day, so come out to get a group run in with friends before you start eating and drinking lots of party food!

All the information you need is below:

What: Craft/CRC/TrySports Fun Day

Discounts! Wear test runs! Craft/TrySports giveaways!

20% Discount on all Craft gear

10% discount on all Apparel

15% discount on all Shoes

When: Sunday, February 6 from 2pm-5pm

Where: TrySports Charlotte @ Blakeney Shopping Center

UNC Charlotte Homecoming 5k

2011-01-21T11:42:00.000-08:00

I added this to the Social Page of the club website ...

Upcoming Events

UNC Charlotte Homecoming 5k February 5 http://recservices.uncc.edu/hc5k.htm

As I know nobody reads anything I write :-) I thought it was safe to post this:

First, the Homecoming 5k race is a low-key, family-friendly event supporting a great cause (the American Heart Association), and welcoming fast runners, slow runners, walkers, kids, parents, an' all. It's hilly. Typically ALL my friends win something, even if they have to pretend to be on the faculty to do it (I'm looking at YOU, Stephen!)

Second, there is traditionally an R&R session at my house afterwards to which everyone is welcome (as long as you tell me by midnight on the Thursday before, so I can go shopping on Friday). This involves 2 big pots of chili (one veggie, one turkey) and an excellent carb-loading drink called a Guinness Blast ( = Guinness with a shot of espresso down the middle). If you're interested. let me know and I'll divulge my secret location.

As we say in my country*, g'wan g'wan g'wan, ye will ye will ye will.

Eimear emgoggin@gmail.com

* well, on an old TV show anyway

Runner in the Spotlight: Jamaar Valentine

2011-01-19T07:47:00.001-08:00

Jamaar Valentine is a fairly new member to the Charlotte Running Club who has taken his passion of running to new heights by finishing the Frosty 50k in Winston-Salem in 5:19:24. A Tar Heel graduate, he shares his reasons for joining the Charlotte Running Club and how he caught the running bug again once he moved back to Charlotte. Best of luck to Jamaar in his next race!

What brought you to Charlotte?
Growing up in the mountains of North Carolina, I've always been drawn to the "opportunities" Charlotte has to offer in different facets of life. Since I started specializing in hospitality, I decided that Charlotte would be a fantastic avenue for lateral movement then moving up in the industry. Most of my friends from college lived here and my sister moved here after high school, so no matter what, I had a great pool of people for whom I cared here in the Queen City.

When and why did you start running?
As a soccer player in middle school, I always appreciated the endurance our sport required. My soccer coach in high school was also a track coach, so running became very key. I was big on athletics year round in high school, but when I found track & field, I couldn't settle on a single event. 300IM hurdles were the single event that took me to states, but not a good enough quality effort to carry me to college.

At UNC, I continued to run off and on fairly casually with multiple 5K sprinkled throughout my five-year plan. While my priorities started to change, I didn't realize how much less effort I was putting into running. As I moved to Wilmington from Chapel Hill, my running further decreased and my lifestyle became much less active. The town's running community simply doesn't compare to what I've found in Chapel Hill, Charlotte, or Asheville. Now it's pretty sad to consider how much I let this once great passion slip, but a year before moving to Charlotte, I caught my decline and haven't looked back since.

What are some things you love most about running?
Running allows me a clear head to focus on my spirituality more than any time I have spent in a church or temple. Running became my reason to enjoy mornings again. It's one thing to experience sunrise, but having seven miles under your belt before sunrise brings me to a position of true appreciation for the moment. A lot of the cares of the world tend to get the volume turned down on days with double-digit mileage.

Favorite Place you’ve traveled and loved for running?
Growing up in the mountains, I always thought anywhere on the Appalachian Trail had to be the perfect setting for a run. Maybe it was the single-track technical trails, or maybe it was all the rolling golf courses, but eventually I discovered life on the coast. Wow! It hardly matters what time of day, very little compares to salt water splashing me as a I trot along a sandy beach. With regards to individual experiences logged in recent memory, it's still a toss up between Salem Lake and Wrightsville Beach.

What is your most memorable race and why?
Different races for different reasons:
Salisbury Run for the Greenway -- I learned a lot about crashing & burning in the summer heat, but still took first place age group. If you ever have the chance, you should do a race put on by the Salisbury Rowan Runners.

Thunder Road Marathon -- I found so many familiar faces and so much time to converse with them for the "hometown" marathon. It may have been my most social race to date.

Salem Lakeshore Frosty 50K -- I could write a small book on the lessons learned and the people I encountered for my first ultra, but the experience itself was really enhanced by the snow falling all around at Salem Lake. The Twin Cities Track Club puts on unique events at great prices.

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
McAlpine Creek is my best option any day of the week. The Greenway is only a few miles from my place, and the trail has always been much kinder to my joints than other greenways in the city. Still, I find some great runs with buds up at Mallard Creek Greenway Saturday mornings and from the Dowd Y Thursday mornings.

What motivates you to run in the cold winter months? Did you run in the snow over Christmas?
For all the reasons I love running, I can't sacrifice that on account of a few snowflakes, ice on greenways, or numb fingers. Like my buddy Allen Strickland said, "Just ran in the freezing rain and sleet on Christmas day. Hope my rivals are enjoying their egg nog." I have to train in the cold so that I may be prepared to race in the cold. Seriously though, it's not always that serious. I did get to spend a few hours running in the snow over Christmas weekend. I was fairly proud to be responsible for the first footsteps in the snow at McAlpine last month. I think I can at least say I'm less likely to pass out from heat exhaustion in this wintry weather than I was in July. Counting my many blessings, I'll take the temps in the twenties.

Favorite Charlotte area race?
Since I've only raced in Charlotte for nine months, it may come as a surprise to some that my favorite was LungStrong 15K. Since it's the last race in Run For Your Life's Grand Prix series, everyone seemed to take time to enjoy the post-race festivities a little more. It's also a distance most Charlotte area runners rarely have the opportunity to race, with 5K's almost every weekend throughout the year. As a cause, I think the LUNGevity foundation is key. It can be tough to draw attention to a race for the leading cause of cancer deaths in America the same month as Komen's Race for the Cure, but running along Jetton Village, I certainly felt inspired.

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
I found I get the most enjoyment out of the half marathon / pikermi... whatever the cool kids are calling it these days. 13.1 miles seems to be just a long enough race for me to soak up the experience and push through multiple surges. So far my PR is 1:38:19 via the Dowd Y half, but a little more hard work and training should see that time drop before the summer.

You are planning on running a 100 Mile race. Can you tell us what inspired you to make the jump to ultra distances?
The obvious answer is that I have to be a big idiot or just insane to want to do a 100 Miler. Really, I just keep discovering every distance milestone I cross, I find out a little more about myself. Eventually my body won't even be able to finish a marathon, so I might as well find out what extremes it can handle before it's too late. I think that's a great way to show my appreciation for the working body I've been given.

What’s your next race?
Since I haven't run an 8K yet, Winter Flight in Salisbury is looking very tempting. I'm still deciding on a spring marathon, but I think it would be nice to return to the coast for an easy marathon PR.

What compelled you to join the Charlotte Running Club?
All the cool kids are here. As far as my training goes, the people in my age group who beat me most often in races, are all in CRC. You have to respect that. By being in a position to run with all these speedsters, I am giving my training an extra push.

What do you love most about the Charlotte Running Club?
Did I mention the cool kids yet? As CRC has become the most dominant club in town, there's a wealth of experience and exposure. I can almost always find someone from the club to do a run in any part of town and give me feedback on races, training, and gear.

Runner in the Spotlight: Théoden Janes

2011-01-07T12:38:00.000-08:00

Théoden Janes is the Pop Culture Write for the Charlotte Observer. On Facebook, he's better known for being the biggest running celebrity of Charlotte. He is known to many inner circles as the "Perez Hilton" of the Charlotte Running community, not for digging up juicy gossip on local runners, but for being the first to receive critical insider information. Théoden is always the first to find out the latest information regarding door prizes, the parking situation at an upcoming race, and discounts at local venues. Through his Blog and his Facebook Page, Théoden has inspired and connected runners.

How long have you been in Charlotte? What brought you here?
[Theoden Janes] I moved my family down here from New Jersey in 2006. We were getting tired of paying more than $2,000 a month to live in a house the size of a shoebox in a neighborhood that was, um, kinda gross ... so when the Charlotte Observer offered me a job as Entertainment Editor, I took it and ran -- although to be honest, I wasn't a runner at that point.

When and why did you start running?
[Theoden Janes] I did a little running for exercise while I was in college, but when I say "a little," what I mean is I ran maybe a few miles a couple dozen times, total, on no regular schedule. I also took up smoking in college. Although I was always a light smoker -- for many years I only smoked when I drank, or in the evenings -- I carried the habit around with me for more than a decade and a half. It actually pains me to admit that. Given the company I now keep, it almost makes me feel a little embarrassed, since so many of my running friends have always been so healthy.

Anyway, I quit cold turkey in the spring of 2007, then shortly before my 35th birthday in September 2008, I decided to start running. Not to lose weight, since I've always been fairly slender. Just for general health and fitness reasons. I ran my first 5k a month later. I enjoyed it so much that I wound up running a 5k the next weekend, and the weekend after that, and the one after that, and the one after that. I was hooked. Obviously.

What are some things you love most about running?
[Theoden Janes]The fitness benefits are great. It's been a fun way to meet some very cool new people. I like starting my day with a run; there's something invigorating about getting up before sunrise and logging a bunch of miles. It can be hard to get out the door sometimes, but by the time I walk back through it, I feel much more ready to face the day. I think what I love most about running, though, is that I find it so inspiring.

Through my blog and through Facebook I've been able to inspire many runners to do more, go farther, go faster, et cetera. But I also find so much "self-inspiration" through running. Not sure that's a real word, or if this makes sense, but it's been so amazingly satisfying to maintain discipline and work hard and set goals and achieve them -- or set goals and learn from the mistakes I make when I DON'T achieve them. I never would have imagined I'd accomplish 1 percent of the things I've accomplished through running in the past two years.

What is your most memorable race and why?
[Theoden Janes] That's a tough question. I mean, I'll never forget my first race -- the 2008 Komen Race for the Cure -- because in a classic newbie move I pinned my timing chip to my bib. Hey, I had never run a race before and the volunteer didn't hand me any ties when she gave me the thing! My first 10k was memorable. My first half was, too. My first trail race....

All six of my marathons have been memorable in some way. New York because it was my first and because of the spectacle and because it was my introduction to both the bonk and to serious cramping. San Diego and Shamrock in Virginia Beach; I have now melted in marathons on both the East and West coasts. Ridge to Bridge because I put up such a huge PR. And Thunder Road, twice, because I ran such evenly-paced races amid so many great friends. By the way, I think it helps to write race recaps, whether they're for hundreds of friends on Facebook or just for yourself, in a private journal. I only do them for major races now, just because I usually can't find time to do them for smaller ones, but having that document in my personal history is priceless. Memories fade, but if you put your experience into words, you can bring those memories back into focus anytime you want.

Where is your favorite place to run in Charlotte?
[Theoden Janes] Also a tough question. I love the cross country trails at Davidson College, the Greenway system in the University City area, and in Dilworth. But there are also so many places I haven't had the chance to run yet: Reedy Creek, McMullen Creek, Crowder's Mountain. I guess the easiest way to answer this is "anywhere that's not my neighborhood," or "wherever my friends are running."

What’s your favorite distance and your PRs for that distance?
[Theoden Janes] Would you stop asking hard questions?? Hmm. I mean, I hate 5ks because they hurt so bad, but I love that they're so challenging and the fact that you have to fight so hard just for seconds. I don't like being tied down to a marathon training schedule, but I love the sense of accomplishment that comes with running a marathon. 10ks are great -- although there aren't nearly enough of them in Charlotte. 10 miles: an awesome distance. The mile is such a pure event, and it makes even average runners like me feel fast.

I guess if I had to choose, though, I'd say the half marathon. Easy to train for, easy to recover from, and for whatever reason, it feels like there's a bigger disconnect between effort level and actual speed in half marathons than at any other distance. I have often looked at my watch in the middle of halfs to see that I'm running a 7-minute pace, tried to back off, and then clicked off another 7:00. Compare that to the last mile of many 5ks, when I'm at 6:40 or 6:50 and it feels like I am going to die. My PR for the half marathon is 1:34.

How do you manage your time between being the Pop Culture Writer for the Charlotte Observer, a dad, a husband, and a runner?
[Theoden Janes] I could talk all day about how difficult it can be find time for everything, but I know there are tons of runners out there who are performing the same juggling act. I'm no Superman. I mean, the bottom line is it's all about compromises. I'm very fortunate to have 1) a wife who pretends to understand my obsession -- even if she really doesn't -- and 2) the ability to get out of bed when the alarm clock goes off at 5 a.m. instead of hitting the snooze button.

What inspired you to race the Frosty 50k, your longest distance yet?
[Theoden Janes] Peer pressure. It won't happen again.

What changes in running community have you seen since moving here?
[Theoden Janes] I don't think there's any question whatsoever that Charlotte has a great running community, possibly one of the most-tight-knit in the country, for a city as big as this one. For years, we've had healthy competition between the running stores in town that have yielded lots of terrific local races. But the proliferation of Facebook combined with a running boom here -- the creation of the Charlotte Running Club and other great smaller clubs around the area, plus the Observer's support of my efforts to bring unique content to the running community -- it's like a perfect storm.

Two years ago, when I first started running, people were lucky to know a dozen other runners in Charlotte. If they didn't run with them regularly, they didn't exist. You might have regularly seen some of the same people at local races, but there weren't a lot of genuine connections being made. And then everybody started getting on Facebook and the various factions slowly started intermingling. Friends of friends were making connections. And if you really put yourself out there, you essentially would go viral. Take my friend Kevin Ballantine. This time a year ago, we had exactly zero mutual friends on Facebook. He joined the Charlotte Running Club in 2010, and now we have 56.

Another example of growth that you can see: Sometimes I'll bring a new person out to run with my other group -- the University City Road Runners -- and when I introduce them, one will say to the other, "Oh yeah, I've seen you post comments on Théoden's Facebook page." Later that afternoon, I'll see on my News Feed that the two of them have become friends, then a Wall post that reads "Great running with you today!" The community here is so diverse, so active, so supportive. The only drawback is that Facebook can be a huge time vacuum -- sometimes on Saturdays, after a big race, it can take an hour or more to go through and congratulate everyone on their performances.

What do you think can be improved upon in the Charlotte Running community for 2011?
[Theoden Janes] I'd love to see the club throw itself into efforts to help make the Thunder Road Marathon an event that brings out more runners and more spectators. I'd like to see more variety from event directors when it comes to race distances. 5ks are great, but especially during peak times there are just way too many of them going on. Quality of choice matters to me more than quantity of choice. I'd also like to see the boom continue. We've done a great job of unifying the runners who are out there, but what can we do to encourage all those people who are merely *thinking* about running to actually get out there and do it?

What do you enjoy most about the Charlotte Running Club?
[Theoden Janes] Because of my schedule and my family's schedule, it can be difficult to take part in many of the group's runs and social activities. What I love though is seeing so many other people get so much out of the club. To use Kevin Ballantine as an example again, this is a guy who was a good but not great runner a year ago. He joined the club and his enthusiasm for the sport exploded -- and he went from being about my speed to becoming one of the fastest runners in Charlotte, in a period of maybe six months. Obviously individual results will vary, but the point is that the Charlotte Running Club really knows how to get members fired up about running. It will help you set goals, and it will help you achieve them. It's a joy to watch.

What’s your next race (after Frosty 50k)?
[Theoden Janes]I'm running the Charlotte Running Co. Trail Race -- the 13-miler -- out at the U.S. National Whitewater Center on Jan. 22. I ran it last year and had a blast. Once again, the goals are to have fun and not twist an ankle.

Can you share one of your new year’s resolutions?
[Theoden Janes]Trying to go 365 days without using a drive-thru. I don't eat much fast food as it is, but I'd like to eat even less. But if they open an In-N-Out in Charlotte, all bets are off.

New Group Runs! Check them out!

2011-01-06T06:43:00.000-08:00

So how about as a new year's resolution, every club member attempts to attend at a minimum 1 group run a week? Stay plugged in and motivated thru the bad weather of winter by participating in a group run.

The club activity I am most proud of is the strength of our group runs. As a running club, at the core of what we do is run. Therefore, no better way to demonstrate that than to have lots of group run options throughout the city. We have had a number of new runs come online with the start of 2011 and several others than have grown in size and pace. I often hear a new member mention that they were shy about trying to come out to a group run because they were concerned about the pace. Please reach out to the contacts at each of these runs to learn more and/or show up to a group run and start your own revolution by leading. It only takes 2 runners to call it a group :) If we are not providing you with good options, let us know so we can work to help establish a run in a location/date/time that works for you.

Link to current list of group runs: Weekly Runs

Charlotte Area Group Run Listing
Members and non-Members are welcome to join us at any location. On weekends we attempt to rotate throughout the various parks in the Charlotte area. Look for Mr. Hydro on the weekends. We have moved to listing CRC and non-CRC events as we just want you to find a group and be happy on a run.

Have a run you want to have published? Want to be the contact person for a CRC run? Email run.charlotte@gmail.com
Nothing below fits your schedule or you are looking for some last minute miles? Rotating weekly long run not posted yet? Try us on Facebook

Monday
5:05am From the Dowd YMCA. 4-8 miles @ 7:45-8:45 pace. Contact John Cantrell jc9000@gmail.com
6:15am From Dowd YMCA. 4-5 miles @ 8:30 pace. Contact heather.wachtler@baml.com
6:30am From TrySports or McMullen from Rea Rd entrance. 6-8 miles @7:30 pace. Contact justinbreland@trysports.com10:00am From TrySports in Blakeney. 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

6:00pm From Dowd YMCA. 6 miles @ 7-7:45 pace. Contact Jocelyn Sikora jocelyn.m.sikora@bankofamerica.com
6:00pm From the Pineville-Matthews entrance of the McMullen Greenway. 4-6 miles @ 7-7:30 pace. Contact Brandon Hillis bhillis@learfieldsports.com
7:00pm From the University Run For Your Life store. 4 - 6 miles; all paces welcome; Drinks and dinner afterwards. Contact Kara kara@runforyourlife.com

Tuesday
5:30am From Miners Run from Old Bell McAlpine entrance on Sardis Rd. 8-12 miles @ 7-8:00 pace. Contact Megan Hovis meganhovis@gmail.com
5:30am From Mecklenburg Aquatic Center. 3 miles @ 8-9:00 pace. Contact Laure Dasse cherdass@gmail.com
5:30am From Lake Norman YMCA. 7.5 mile loop or track intervals @ 7-8:00 pace. Contact Todd Mayes todd.mayes@gmail,com
6:00am From Downtown Davidson CVS. 6 miles @ 8+ pace. Headlamp recommended. Coffee at Summit Coffee post-run. Contact Chad Randolph davidsonarearunningteam@gmail.com 6:30am From Water fountain at Christ Church on corner of Providence and Colville. 4-6 miles @ 9 pace Contact Lauren Robbins laurobbins@gmail.com

1:00pm From Belk Gym at UNC Charlotte. 3+ miles; all paces welcome. Contact Eimear Goggin emgoggin@uncc.edu, or check the UNC Charlotte Branch of the CRC Forum on the Campus News website for this week's runs.

6:15pm From TrySports in Blakeney 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

Wednesday
5:30am From Mecklenburg Aquatic Center. 5 miles @ 8-9:00 pace. Contact Laure Dasse cherdass@gmail.com
5:30am From Dowd YMCA. 8-12 miles. 7:15-7:45 pace.Contact Jason Martin jlmartin21@hotmail.com6:00am From Dowd YMCA. 6-9 miles. 7:15-7:45 pace. Contact Michael Kahn michael_s_kahn@hotmail.com or Jocelyn Sikora. Jocelyn.m.sikora@bankofamerica.com 6:00am From Dowd YMCA. 6-8 miles. 8:30-9 pace. Contact Jill Pritchard jillpritchard@gmail.com or Jill Michaud jillfm10@hotmail.com
6:00am From Downtown Davidson CVS. 6 miles at 8+ pace. Headlamp recommended. Coffee at Summit Coffee post-run. Contact Chad Randolph davidsonarearunningteam@gmail.com 10:00am From TrySports in Blakeney 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

5:45pm From Alexander Graham Middle School 1800 Runnymede LaneCharlotte, NC 28211 Track workout for ALL PACES Welcome on the oval of love!
Contacts caleb_boyd@yahoo.com and Emily Barrett, emilylpc@gmail.com
6:00pm From Promenade Charlotte Running Company. 4-5 miles; all paces welcome. Typically 10-11 min pace. 15% off purchases at store. Contact Aaron Linz amlinz@yahoo.com
6:30pm From Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. 4-8 miles; all paces welcome. 15% off purchases at store. Headlamp &/or reflective gear recommended. Contact Audra at the Charlotte Runners Meetup Group http://www.meetup.com/CharlotteRunners

Thursday
5:30am From Lake Norman YMCA. 7.5 mile loop or track intervals @ 7-8:00 pace. Contact Todd Mayes todd.mayes@gmail,com 6:00am From Dowd YMCA. 7-12 miles @ 7-7:30 pace. Contact Kevin Ballantine Kevin.Ballantine@ally.com
6:30am From water fountain at Christ Church on corner of Providence and Colville. 4-6 miles @ 9 min pace Contact Lauren Robbins laurobbins@gmail.com

1:00pm From Belk Gym at UNC Charlotte. 3+ miles; all paces welcome. Contact Eimear Goggin emgoggin@uncc.edu, or check the UNC Charlotte Branch of the CRC Forum on the Campus News website for this week's runs.6:00pm (2nd loop at 6:30pm) From Corner of Morehead St. and Dilworth Rd. Two loops of 3.7 mile course. 7-8:00 minute pace. Group meets at Dilworth Neighborhood Grill for dinner and drinks after the run. Contact Chris Cummins cbc673@gmail.com

6:00 pm From Dilworth Charlotte Running Company. 4.5 miles (occasionally the 6.5 mile loop); all paces welcome. Headlamp &/or reflective gear recommended. Occasional carb-loading afterwards. Contact Eimear Goggin emgoggin@gmail.com
6:15pm From TrySports in Blakeney. 3-6 miles; all paces welcome. Contact http://www.trysports.com/location/charlotte

Friday
6:00am From Mecklenburg Aquatic Center. 5 miles at @ 8-9:00 pace. Contact Laure Dasse. cherdass@gmail.com

12:00 From Harris Express YMCA . 5-10 miles @ 8:00-9:00 pace. Contact Bryan.Manges@piedmontng.com

Saturday
6:30am From Queens and Providence Road (the gold statue guy - good parking) 9:30+ pace for 8-12 miles. Contact Fred Wood fmwjr@yahoo.com
7:00am From the Caribou Coffee at Cochran Commons in University. All paces welcome. Contact University City Road Runners ucrun.com
7:00am From the East Blvd. entrance to Freedom Park; 8+ miles @ 8 pace or 8+ miles @ 9 pace; run the 8-mile loop or continue on for more miles. Contact mailto:caleb_boyd@yahoo.comor Chris Bradle chris@endurobrand.com
7:30am From Track Behind Barnette Elementary and Bradley Middle School off Beatties Ford Rd. Contact Todd Mayes todd.mayes@gmail.com

** Weekly rotating long run (Sat or Sun) -- Please check our Facebook fan page. **
Sunday6:00am From Downtown Davidson CVS. 10+ miles @ 8 +/- pace. Headlamp recommended. Coffee at Summit Coffee post-run. Contact Chad Randolph davidsonarearunningteam@gmail.com 7:30am From the main parking lot of McAlpine Park, 8711 Monroe Rd. Stop in lot every 4-5 miles for hydration/nutrition. All paces welcome. We park in the lower left hand corner of the lot, near where a water fountain is located. Please be there a few minutes before 7:30, especially if you need to use the restrooms. Contact Larry Seavers larry.seavers1@gmail.com or Tom Torkildsen Tom.Torkildsen@wellsfargo.com

** Weekly rotating long run (Sat or Sun) -- Please check our Facebook fan page. **

-----------------------------
OTHER GOOD OPTIONS

Charlotte Runners Meetup Group
http://www.meetup.com/CharlotteRunners/
They offer run options that cater to a bit shorter distances for beginner and casual runners. We have crc members who get a run or two in a week with meetup and participate in our runs as well. A few of their runs are integrated into our full listing above. See their link for a complete list of runs.

CarolinaTrail Runner
Carolina Trail Runner & Mountain Biker meetup group. All skill levels and various runs. All off road. The new home of the "Almost 10k" group runs. http://meetup.com/CarolinaTrail

Icoachurun - Fort Mill
icoachurun run group in Fort Mill/Tega Cay area. They have several meeting times. Currently Tuesday am (545) and Sunday am (730) They are adding more times in January. All levels of running, walk/run beginners to marathon finishers. Led by club member Jamie Dodge http://www.icoachurun.com/

Fort Mill Fast Feet
Saturday at 8am, run from Fort Mill YMCA in Baxter Village.
Tuesday 9:15am at the Gold Hill YMCA, Tega Cay.
Monday run at 6pm at the Fort Mill YMCA in Baxter Village.
Contact club member Paige Kell Ynotrun@hotmail.com, All levels of runners, some are 7:00mm, most are 9-10mm all the way to a few 12 mm.

Rock Hill Striders (Our good buddies barely to the South)
http://rockhillstriders.wordpress.com/

Wednesday 5:30 pm at Charlotte Avenue YMCA, back of parking lot. 8 miles @ 7:30 – 8 min/mile
Thursday 5:30 pm at Charlotte Avenue YMCA, back of parking lot. 8 miles @ 7:30 – 8 min/mile
Saturdays 7:30am at the Springs Complex on Hwy 160 in Fort Mill. Any distance @ 8 + minutes.
Sunday 7:30 at the Winthrop Coliseum. 7, 8, or 10 miles @ 8 minutes or faster. There may be some groups at a slower pace, depending on who shows up.

RFYL 2011 Race Calendar

2011-01-04T14:39:00.000-08:00

Run For Your Life 2011 race calendar..enjoy! Posted hear before anyone else because that is how we roll! Thank you Kim Bruno at RFYL for sharing with us.

2/5 UNCC Homecoming 5K UNCC Campus
3/12 Alston + Bird LLP Corporate Cup 5k, Half-Marathon & Half-Marathon Relay Uptown Charlotte
3/19 SHAMROCK 4 MILER (1st GPX) Stonecrest Shopping Center
4/8 Celebrate Better Health 5K Uptown Charlotte (Friday night race)
4/16 Rodney’s Kids Triathlon Charlotte Aquatic Center
4/16 Run For The Money Gastonia, NC
4/16 Harrisburg YMCA 5K
4/30 CPCC SKYLINE 5K (2ND GPX) Uptown Charlotte
5/8 Falafel 5K Shalom Park (Sunday morning race)
5/13 Right Moves For Youth Twilight 5K (3rd GPX) Uptown Charlotte (Friday night race)5/14 Run Ballantyne 10K, 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run Ballantyne Corporate Park
5/14 Pet Palooza Kennelly 5K Independence Park
5/21 Great Harvest Bread Co 5K (4th GPX) Run For Your Life Piper Glen
6/4 King Tiger University City 5K (5th GPX) Run For Your Life University
6/18 Summer Breeze 5K (6TH GPX) Freedom Park
6/25 Kate’s Race for Hope McAlpine Creek Park
7/2 HFFA Firecracker 5K Huntersville Aquatic Center
7/16 Run For Your Cause Run For Your Life 4 Miler (7th GPX) Run For Your Life Dilworth
8/6 Panthers 5K (8th GPX) Panthers Bank of America Stadium
8/13 Rock ‘n Run 5K NC Music Factory
8/20 USNWC Trail Challenge 10K & 5K USNWC
8/27 Yiasou Greekfest 5K (9th GPX) Greek Cathedral East Blvd
9/3 Freedom 5K TBD
9/10 Hog Jog 5K Uptown Charlotte
9/17 Hit the Brixx 10K & 5K (10TH GPX) Brixx Pizza Uptown Charlotte
10/1 Race For The Cure 5K Uptown Charlotte
10/8 Lung Strong 15K & 5K (11TH GPX) Jetton Village / Cornelius, NC
10/15 Hopebuilders 5K Uptown Charlotte
10/22 Dowd YMCA Half-Marathon & 5K Dowd YMCA
10/29 HFFA 10K & 5K Huntersville Aquatic
11/12 KANGAROO EXPRESS THUNDER ROAD MARATHON presented by Marathon Oil, AMICA INSURANCE HALF-MARATHON & 5K Uptown Charlotte

Craft of Sweden Sample Sale at Hangover Run!

2010-12-29T13:40:00.000-08:00

When: Saturday, January 1 1030am-1230pm

Where: McAlpine Main Entrance

What: Craft Sample Sale

Who: Meagan Nedlo and Jordan Kinley

Why: Craft is awesome

"There is no bad weather, just bad clothing." -Swedish maxim

After a big night out on New Year's Eve, come find out what the Swedes have known all along. Charlotte Running Club members Jordan Kinley and Meagan Nedlo will be holding a Craft of Sweden sample sale before and after the Hangover Run. Getting fit may take all year, but looking fit can be accomplished before noon on January 1, 2011.

Most of the samples are size medium so if you're a large use it as a new year's resolution to lose weight. If you're a small, maybe the holidays have been particularly unkind and now you're a medium. This is an opportunity to round out your running apparel collection, buy a belated Christmas gift or get what Santa forgot to put under the tree.

Available items include:
- Baselayers
- T-Shirts
- Thermal Tops
- Tights
- Women's shorts
- Jackets
- Hats
- Socks
- Some bike gear
- Some tri gear

Items will all be priced to sell at 50-60% off retail. Cash is preferred, checks are accepted, credit doesn't work and lay away isn't an option.

Looking for Full and Half Marathoners for 2011 (Winter and Spring)

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Gonna Run a Full or Half Marathon this Winter or Spring? Let us know so we can get you on the list. *** FULL and HALF MARATHON Winter-Spring 2011 List ***

March 20th alone has 4 marathons on the east coast and 1 out in LA!!!

Let us help link you up with folks for those long runs and have some local friends to travel to/from the race and celebrate with after your race.

January 2011 Races/Events Club Members Are Attending

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With Thunder Road and Kiawah behind us, 2010 is just about done. With only a few races here and there remaining in 2010, it is time to start looking ahead to January!!! I have listed what I know club members are thinking about. Please consider a couple of these and let us know which ones you will probably attend. Since several of them require a short road trip either the day of or the morning of the event, we can help connect you with other runners to carpool. Go Green and save some gas J

1/1 Hangover Run – McAlpine Park– More details to come but a fun way to start the new year with club members. Come run a free timed race and stick around for a few more miles afterwards.

1/8 Frosty 50k Salem Lake Winston Salem - > marathon equals an ultra which scares a lot of folks but let me tell you from personal experience, this race is a blast! It is such a friendly experience and tons of support to get you through 50k. I did a road trip last year with Thomas Eggar, Michelle Hazelton and Matt Jaskot. Nothing like stopping at IHOP after a 31 mile run! Lots of club members already planning to road trip over that morning as this is an easy one to get to the morning of.
http://www.twincitytc.org/ Frosty 50k (website was down Sun dec 12th but might be back up)

1/8 and 1/9 Disney Marathon Weekend (full, half, 5k) – Mike Beigay is making the trip down again this year along with others. Good luck to all club members who participate.
http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/rundisney/wdw-marathon/?CMP=KNC-WDWMarathonGoogle&s_kwcid=TC12651disney%20marathonS6500380471

1/15 Charleston Full and Half Marathon – This year is the first year for the full marathon and 2nd for the half marathon. The race festival organizers have been working hard to make this year even better. Justin Breland, Mike Kahn, Deb Rubinich, Adam Mayes, Richard Hefner are the folks that come to mind making the trip. Charleston is an easy 3-4 hour drive from Charlotte and if you have never visited the city, please do. It is wonderful. http://www.riverfrontracefestival.com/

1/22 Hot Chocolate 10k Asheville, NC – Chris Jones has attended this before and recommends it. The CRC board is running this race Saturday morning and then spending the rest of the weekend planning out 2011 and club vision. Come join us at the race as several others are doing. Hurry up as the race caps at 1000 and allegedly is near capacity. http://www.hotchocolate10k.com/

1/22 Charlotte Running Company Trail Race Whitewater center 13, 9, 4 mile options
If you prefer to stay in town and are a fan of or want to give a trail a try, then come on out to this race. CRC has performed pretty well in this event and should do the same this year.
Colleen Cummins and Lat Purser – last year overall winners for 13
Jocelyn Sikora and Keith Mrochek – last year overall winners for 8.2
Kay Allen and Bjorn Erik Norman – trail regulars who I am sure will be present at the events.
http://www.crctrailrace.com/

1/29 Fellowship of the Idiot Run – 19.7 miles total up and down Morrow State Park mtn. Put on by Vac and Dash out of Albermarle http://www.vacanddash.com/FellowshipoftheIdiots.htm club members Jen and Stan Austin, Bill Shires, and Scott Helms – inductees into the Fellowship of Idiots. 5.30am start. Another easy drive of 1 hour or less from Charlotte. If you are training for a Spring marathon and/or ultra, the folks at Vac and Dash are a blast. This event is very low key as you will see at the link above and best of all free!

1/29 Winter Flight 8k (RRCA State championship put on by the Salisbury Rowan Road Runners). This race draws some of the best running talent in North Carolina. Since it is a 10am race start over in Salisbury, a short 1 hour drive the morning of the event will get you there in plenty of time. A few members who competed last year: Bill Shires, Jason Holder, Caitlin Chrisman, Theoden Janes, Alana Hadley, Allen Strickland, Kevin Ballantine
http://www.active.com/running/salisbury-nc/winter-flight-8k-run-and-5k-walk-2011

1/30 USATF National Half Marathon Championships and Full marathon Houston
http://www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com/
Caitlin Chrisman in the Half Marathon, Meagan Nedlo – full marathon