NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBERS!!!
If you know WVRR's newest members touch base and welcome them to the club and maybe go for a run.
Nicole, Justin and James Bonham
Kelly, Chuckie and Mikalyn Hawkins
Paul Lewis
Jeff Etling
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest members and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
On 05/05/13 WVRR Members Kim and Scott Rhodes ran the Pittsburgh Marathon. The challenging course passed through some thirteen Pittsburgh neighborhoods and crossed five bridges. Here is a picture of Kim and Scott at the start just before the marathon kicked off.
WVRR 2013 Scholarship Winners
The Wabash Valley Road Runners Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce Anne Mullican and Justin Clapp are the winners of the WVRR 2013 Scholarship.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner/Walker:
Marsha Buck, age 62 years young, occupation: retired Medical Records Administrator, Board Position: Membership Director
How long have you been running/walking and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I started treadmill running in 2000 and did my first road race in 2001-the Riley Lions Club 5K. It was also the first time I ever ran outside. I asked the time keeper not to turn off the clock until I came in. He asked what time I expected. When I told him I was a treadmill runner, he told me I would run faster outside. I did, but not by much. I only beat the last 2 people because one of them was having asthma issues and those 2 stayed together. I had a good time. I ran for time, so I was now considered a runner, not a jogger. In 2004, a biking friend suggested I join him in Trained in Terre Haute (TNT) and then run the Indy Mini in May. I got injured in April and couldn't run or bike for 6 months. But come sign-up time for the 2005 Trained in Terre Haute, I was there and have been ever since. Being a member of TNT)includes membership in WVRR. So I've been a member since 2004 and very proud to me a member!
What is your running/walking routine?
From January through April I pretty much follow the TNT schedule. This year, however, on Sundays I have been walking about 5 miles with a great group of friends who are also part of TNT. Walking is great for cross training and good for socializing! Starting in May each year I usually run 3 days a week, and bike 3 days a week. I keep my schedule flexible in the summer, accommodating for weather and free time. I try to work around biking with the National Road Bike Club (NRBC) on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. NRBC is another great group of people in the Wabash Valley. I've met so many wonderful people between WVRR and NRBC.
What is your best running/walking memory?
I don't think I can relate to one best memory. Every run, walk, and even bike ride is memorable. There will come a day that I will not be able to run or bike. There might even come a day when I will be unable to walk. The memories that I take with me as I face each unknown day are those of the many great friends I have made during these active years.
What is your favorite race?
I have enjoyed every race I have participated in, both as a runner and as a volunteer, especially all of the WVRR events. We are very fortunate to have such a variety of high quality events right here in the Wabash Valley. If I had to pick a favorite site, it would be Hawthorn Park. I love racing there. I love training there, too!
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
I have run 2 marathons. The first was 2009 Indianapolis Monumental. I wanted to run my first one close to home in case my ambitions were too big and I was being unrealistic in regards to my abilities. But I followed a running plan and had no problems completing the race in spite of November temps in the 70s and winds 30+ mph. My second marathon was 10-10-10 Chicago Marathon. I absolutely loved this race in spite of October temps in the upper 80s. (Could just be because I am a Chicago native!) Training for a marathon takes a lot of time; it's a huge commitment. I'm glad I ran these two events, but I don't see me running any more marathons unless I am part of a relay team. Half marathons are a lot more doable.
Have you had any interesting running/walking experiences?
Every run/walk and even bike ride has its interesting aspects, whether I am alone or with others. I do have one learning experience. In December, 2010, I was running a 10 mile training run by myself. I had nine miles in and was feeling good knowing I was only 1 mile from home. I was watching a car coming in my direction. He wasn't moving over or slowing down. Eventually he was right in front of me. I had no shoulder to run on so I moved over to the empty corn field. The car passed as I tripped and flew forward...face plant on the road. Results: broken glasses, lost tooth, head concussion, etc. Lesson learned: when making room for approaching vehicles that refuses to give you passage, don't keep running...move off the road, STOP, and wait for vehicle to pass!
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBER!!!
If you know WVRR's newest member touch base and welcome him to the club and maybe go for a run.
Steve Lockard
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest member and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
Hello WVRR members I, Lisa Jennings, and my colleague, Sharon Manley are both First Grade teachers at Hoosier Prairie Elementary School. We have been sponsoring a running club at Hoosier Prairie for the last 4 years. Our running club meets most Thursdays from Sept-Dec and March-May. Many of our kids are competitive runners, while many others are participating to remain active and for the socializing it offers.
The last two years we have sponsored an event called "Feet on the Prairie, Food on the Table." The first year we had about 50 runners, this past year we had over 120 runners. It is a 3K race in November and participants are required to donate nonperishable food items as part of their entry fee. The small fee they pay for the race pays for a shirt for the event and the food goes to a nonprofit to help provide Thanksgiving dinners for those in need. In addition, we get sponsors to donate items such as food, water, coupons, etc... as part of a goodie package for the racers. Any extra money received goes to support other charities such as the Shoe Bus, the Backpack Program or Success by Six.
Thanks to WVRR donations, we have been able to reuse donated trophies so that we can give out 1st thru 3rd awards for K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 runners of both sexes. They may not always match, but the kids are extremely thrilled to receive a trophy, especially since many of them are young and not able to physically compete against older runners in other area races. The kids feel encouraged and proud to show off their awards to their families and peers. We, as sponsors, are grateful that we have had such support from area racers who have donated their trophies to kids who really appreciate the recognition. In addition, because we have not had to purchase those trophies and had only to pay for the award plates to be changed, we have been fortunate to make generous donations to the charity groups we have chosen to support. It has been a win-win situation for all involved. Thanks so much for all your help and support!
To donate your medals and trophies email me at lsj@vigoschools.org or Sharon at smm3@vigoschools.org
Lisa Jennings
Grade 1 Teacher
Hoosier Prairie Elementary School
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBERS!!!
If you know WVRR's newest member touch base and welcome him to the club and maybe go for a run.
Bryce Maxwell
April Holloway
Kathryn Mudica
Donatella Mudica
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest members and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
The Gadberrys showed their WVRR colors and ran in the Fort Walton Beach Florida 5k/10k while on Spring Break vacation. Ian ran the 5k while mom(Sarah) and dad(Aaron) ran the 10k. Hopefully they will bring back some warm Florida weather.
Check This Out!!
WVRR's own Bruce Speth in the Bloomington Herald Times newspaper fitness insert magazine INstride. Click here to read it.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner/Walker:
Dave Williams, age 61, Occupation Sales Mgr, Macy's, Board Position, Events Coordinator
How long have you been running/walking and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I have been running for over 30 years. I have been a proud WVRR member since the early 90's.
What is your running/walking routine?
I try not to miss a I try not to miss an opportunity to run. I get out early befor events of the day get in the way.
What is your best running/walking memory?
Making friends and sharing the experiences of traveling to area races.
What is your favorite race?
Fast Track Mile, I am Race Director. Someday I hope to run this race!!
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
I would like to think I PR'd the one and only I have run.
Have you had any interesting running/walking experiences ?
Vincennes 10 Miler. The weather was a mixture of sleet snow and rain. The wind was gusting to 40 mph from the west. and now..The rest of the story. I was running along side of Bruce Speth early on in the race. We were running south out of town on the "old course" We were dodging large puddles of water, as it had rained heavily the day before. Bruce and I were carrying on a conversation. as we were about to turn west on to the gravel road that would eventually lead us along side the levee. We could hear the runners in front of us moan and groan as the road turned. Bruce said, "This is were the men are seperated from the boys" That was the last time we were able to hear one another speak as the winds gusted to 40 mph. I remember the people calling splits would barely crack the windows in their cars to give us our times. When we got to the finish line, there was nothing but the timing clock there. No crowds, no well wishers. Just wind , sleet and snow. Now, anytime we are out in miserable conditions and we start to complain about the weather, we just say" Well, at least it is not as bad as the 10 miler in Vincennes"
On 01/12/13 the Wabash Valley Road Runners held their annual Banquet/Awards Ceremony/2012 Year in Review at Rose-Hulman. Those in attendance dined on a delicious meal, received some cool WVRR swag and enjoyed great camaraderie with fellow runners/walkers. Club members were introduced to the 2012 WVRR Scholarship Winners, helped to honor the winners of the Championship Series, the winners of the Club Running/Walking Awards and learned of the successes WVRR had through the various Club races in 2012. There was also a little business conducted, the WVRR Board Members were re-installed and minor changes to the Club by-laws were voted upon by those members present. Thanks to all those who helped to make the night a great success.
Check out the December issue of White Construction's newsletter for a write up of WVRR's very own Bruce Speth and his completion of his 50 state marathon odyssey. The article can be found here on page 3. Congrats Bruce!
50 States - 50 Medals
By: Caitlyn Waldrop
In late July of this past summer, I had just completed an internship with a forensic pathologist at Regional Hospital and I decided to go on a long run. I got done and realized that I had ran eleven miles. That single run inspired me to start training for a marathon. I immediately went to the computer and printed out a training schedule.
My journey started off without a hitch. I would get up early before it got too hot and get my runs in and then exercise for another thirty minutes. My body quickly adjusted to the higher mileage on consecutive days, a change that I thought would be the end to my insane notion of completing a marathon. I had never been more than a half-miler in high school track and I was mediocre at cross country for three years.
Then the training became a little bit tougher. I went to Indiana University for two weeks during the month of July to take an early class. My easy-going summer days were replaced with homework that seemed to never end and studying that I could never do too much of. Somehow I found the time to get to the gym and run. I looked at it as a stress reliever. I remember one day that was beyond hectic. I had attended class from nine to noon and then spent the next six hours studying for an exam that was described to us as “one of the hardest tests you’ll take in college.” I was nearly beside myself. No matter how much I went over everything, I felt so unprepared. I ate my first “college meal” of pretzels, peanut butter, and fruit snacks and decided that my day of studying needed to be interrupted. It was nearly ten o’clock at night and I couldn’t take it anymore. My mind was frazzled and I needed a release. I headed to the gym and cranked out my fastest five mile run ever. Needless to say, I got a 96% on the exam the next day.
The end of that class came and then I was off to West Virginia for the National Forestry Competition. I never strayed from my running; I would wake up at six a.m. every day and run around the state park we camped in. All the campers came to know me as “Runner Girl.” I got nods and waves and shouts telling me how crazy I was every morning. After my morning runs, I would then be up until eleven at night studying and learning new forest management techniques. To say the least, I got tired.
I returned home for two days before heading to Indiana University for my first semester as a college freshman. The adjustment from high school to college was not what I expected. Not so much harder, but different. I was away from my family who had given me so much support and I was away from my favorite running routes.
Although many things were different, I didn’t let that stop me from training. I went to the gym every day and nearly wore out their treadmills. I was getting slightly tired of running when I teamed up with Lauren. She was an active girl but had never really been a runner. I recruited her to go on some of my mid distance runs and then she was hooked. Every day we went on a run and she would always make sure I went if she was unable to go. She kept me on track to prepare for the marathon.
November third came and I had never felt more ready. I was bright eyed and bushy tailed by five a.m. My legs were twitching the entire forty-five minute drive to Indy. We got there and it was still dark out. The music was blaring and people were already lining up at the start line. Mom and Dad walked me to the line, hugged and kissed me good luck, and told me to “run fast.” That was our ritual before every race. I only allowed Mom and Dad to tell me that though. If anyone else ever said it, they would simply receive a not-so-friendly nod.
The race started and I was overwhelmed. So many people were around me, all of them going the same way as me. I felt a sense of community; we were all in it for the long haul. It was a chilly morning, chilly enough that I had my cold gear on and a pair of gloves that Mom had insisted on at the last minute.
During the race, the officials who move from place to place nick named me “Smiley.” No matter when they saw me, a huge smile was spread across my face. There is no place that I would’ve rather been than running through the streets of Indy.
At mile 20, I was grateful for the gloves that Mom had insisted on. The sky had clouded over and it started sleeting. My face was literally numb, along with the rest of my body. I remember looking down at one point to make sure that my legs were still running.
Some say the start is the worst while others say mile 17 is the toughest time. I found both of these to be false. My toughest mile was by far mile 22. It was pouring down rain and I was soaked to the bone. This is the mile in which I did an insane amount of praying. I just wanted to make it to the finish line.
God obviously came through because I crossed the line at four hours and twenty-seven minutes. I had reached my goal. Before the race, I told myself that I was not going to walk, not even to eat or drink. I accomplished that and I didn’t even let myself stop to use the bathroom. I was so excited to see Mom and Dad waiting at the line but I couldn’t tell them that because the only thing I was capable of saying was “I just ran 26.2 miles.” I guarantee they heard that statement at least forty times.
People said I was crazy for taking such a big thing like this on at such a busy time of my life. I agree with those people to some extent. There were times when I couldn’t figure out why I was spending three hours on the treadmill or why I was up at five a.m. working out when I had a class at eight a.m. Although there were these hard times, I truly think that this training helped me adjust to life in Bloomington. I had always enjoyed running but it grew to more of a comforting hobby than just a way to stay fit. If running like a fool makes me “crazy”, then I guess you could say that I enjoy being crazy.
Are you a runner looking to increase flexibility? Strike a balance between stretching and running at inYoga's new "Yoga for Runners" class every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. The class begins with a 30 minute jog/run starting from the studio's front doors at 6th and Ohio. Following the run, the class will meet back at the studio for 30 minutes of deep restorative stretching.
The pace is around a 9 to 10 minute mile for about 3 miles. Some avid runners choose to go for a longer or faster run before the class or run ahead of the group. We understand that not everyone is at the same level, both in running and in yoga, so we try to provide flexible options for each individual. Cost is $10 per person. Please visit inYoga of Terre Haute online for more information.
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBER!!!
If you know WVRR's newest member touch base and welcome him to the club and maybe go for a run.
Kyle Burdick
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest member and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
WVRR Member Shares Personal Story Overcoming Injury
WVRR Member Melissa Hendrix shares her story about fighting back from injury and what lessons she learned about running, her running family and herself. Hendrix, "If exposing this and any of the other injury issues I battle can help one other person, I would say that it is worth putting this out for others."
Through running I have learned some of the most valuable lessons in all my life. Some I have learned through observation and others through personal experience. I have grown as much, if not more from my hardships as I have from my successes. My most recent lessons came as the result of a fibular stress fracture caused by over training. I am stubborn and … well, intense (I think we are ALL intense.)
Runners often get in the dangerous habit of basing their self-worth on the number of miles they run a week. I remember logging 65 hard miles of running the week before I landed in an Emergency Care Center for leg pain. I then opted to do a 24 hour relay race on my already sore leg. This was all in addition to hours of cross-training and my job as a Personal Trainer. I felt a bit invincible and strong, because I knew despite whatever else was going on in my life, I am able overcame a lot of physically exhausting things. I was on the running euphoric-high that we all have experienced and nothing was going to stop me. Medical conditions were something to which I had not been a stranger. I had trained myself to block out pain and push through so much that I was still in complete denial that I would be out for longer than a week. I felt like the doctors were suggesting ridiculous non-sense when they said running would have to be put on hold for awhile, because although I couldn’t put any weight on my left leg, they clearly didn’t know I had a long run planned for the next week which at the time I was sure would be crucial to my existence. The doctors also obviously didn’t know about the WVRR point series and the goals I was working to achieve.
Later, I became angry, then sad and downright depressed. If I couldn’t run, I didn’t know who I was. I felt very incomplete and even dreamt about my feet pounding on the pavement. I felt like plugging my ears when I heard others talk about running. I hid all of my running magazines and got in the pool twice a day, every day, no matter what. I was on a new mission to work towards healing. I started volunteering for races and forcing myself to give back and support my running family as had been given me. The first race I worked was the Midnight River Run. I was so happy and proud of everyone there. I observed and cheered and it sincerely felt good. Afterward, I went to my car and cried. I felt like everything I had worked so hard for was thrown away. I looked at things in a very black and white manner. I wanted to go to sleep and wake up when I was able to run again. I then felt guilty for being upset over something that would seem so trivial to many. I thought, “Who was I to be upset over an injury when others were going through things far worse?”
This caused me to reflect upon my original running goals. I accepted that I wasn’t going to be able to run, let alone compete for awhile. I was so grateful that earlier in the year I was able to run my first full marathon and qualify for Boston. Now I had to use my mental strength in a different way. I knew I could encourage others and enjoy their running experiences. I continued to volunteer, which wasn’t always easy, however it allowed me to stop and appreciate the sport from a totally different perspective. I realized how much my running friends meant to me. Strangely, I still would have the similar nervousness, excitement and happiness associated with racing, yet now those feelings were for them rather than for me. I noticed how much I enjoyed their company. Chatting about the experiences of my fellow runners and their injuries and recoveries showed me their ability to overcome
It was this ongoing support which helped get me through rough days. I cannot begin to express the level of my gratitude. Through this time I kept swimming and water jogging in the deep end. I did it in the rain or shine, just as I would have done if running. I began to bike as soon as I was medically released to and I vowed I would not run a day sooner than advised…and I didn’t. It turns out; another part of being a runner was learning to listen to my body a little more. It meant sometimes silencing all of those things in my head that told me I was “lazy”, “unworthy”, “weak”, and so on if I didn’t run “x” amount of miles. While Series’ Points are a wonderful accomplishment, as are trophies and medals, all of that meant nothing if I wasn’t able to run years down the road. I think we all know this in our heads, but sometimes forget to believe it in our hearts. I was released to run a little over two weeks before the Blues Half Marathon. It was not the rainbows and butterflies I had expected, rather achiness and pain. I learned to be patient with myself. I stopped when it hurt, but now I was proud of stopping because I knew that I never would have done that in the past. I opted not to run the Blues because I still had some pain. I knew this would result in my name being passed up come December. While difficult, it was probably the smartest choice I have made regarding running since I had started. I knew the decision I made took far more courage and heart than it would had I chose to compete. I knew there would always be more races.
I now run pain free, pretty much all of the time. I ran Race for the Cure in October for my mom and a dear friend of mine who was killed in September. I didn’t win or PR, but I was pain free and very proud, as racing has become about causes and taking in the entire experience. I feel that every single run is a gift and I am now more complete with running back in my life. I am ashamed of my past feelings. They now seem selfish, however I know they were real and made me human. We all want to do well and push our bodies, but I hope we can all do so with some humility and also a clear vision of the much bigger picture. May we remind ourselves that the definition of success is sometimes not based solely on what is important to us individually?
Melissa Hendrix
Bruce Speth Now A Member Of the 50 States Marathon Club
We want to congratulate Bruce on this wonderful achievement!! Now a few words from Bruce himself.
Thanks to everyone who wished me well and congratulated me for reaching my goal of running a marathon in all 50 states. It was a journey that I started seriously trying to achieve about 10 years ago. Thanks to my wonderful supportive wife, Marcy. It was fantastic to have my wonderful son, Aaron and daughters Natalie and Rachel in Bar Harbor, Maine to support and help celebrate my 50th. To Ron Shepard, thanks for making the trip to Maine and running 18 miles with me. Thanks to my many friends, my family members and running buddies who have made the trek to a marathon with me. You all have helped make my journey a little easier and a lot more fun.
I'll celebrate for a little while but I am already thinking about where I'll run my 71st marathon
Bruce Speth
What to do with all my miles?
We are runners and we run. Sometimes for health. Sometimes for training. Day after day we put miles down on road, track, and treadmill. But what if all those miles we run could be used for something more than getting us to our own personal goals? Now you can. There are several websites out there where your miles can count for more. Your miles can banked for donations for a wide range of charities. Here is a list of some of those websites:
+3 Network
http://www.plus3network.com
Saucony
http://run4good.saucony.com/
Earndit
http://www.earndit.com
Charity Miles
http://www.charitymiles.org/
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner/Walker:
Sue Cass, age 70, occupation: receptionist w/Old National Insurance, Board Position: Secretary
How long have you been running/walking and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I saw an ad in the paper that WVRR was starting a training program for the Mini in Indy and also had a walking division. I went to the meeting, signed up and have been in TNT/WVRR for 13 years. I didn’t know anybody at the meeting but have met so many nice people and made lifelong friends. This was the beginning of my walking and I plan to keep walking for years to come!
What is your running/walking routine?
When not training in TNT I walk with a group on Tuesday evening & Sunday morning. I also try to walk at least a mile a day. Sometimes this is in the mall, treadmill, outside, depending on the weather.
What is your best running/walking memory?
I was going to be in Vincennes with my brother for his class reunion so I checked on a race they were having and yes they had a walking division. When the race started everyone took off and there I stood, the only walker. I walked as fast as I could and an officer stopped to see if I was okay. I told him I was fine, just walking the race. Later he asked if I was still in the race and if so I was about 3 blocks out of the way. I finished last but was given a watermelon and had a good time! There are many good walking memories.
What is your favorite race?
I’ve enjoyed all races but the Blues at the Crossroads has to be the best. Walking the trail and finishing downtown was perfect.
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
At one time I thought about doing a marathon but have decided to stay with the half’s. I did a half in May and a half in Sept. so two halves make a whole even if I’m told that doesn’t count as a marathon!
Have you had any interesting running/walking experiences?
It’s hard to pick one experience. As a walker we have lots of “interesting experiences” runners don’t have! Have you ever been in a race hearing “chug chug chug” right behind you? Did you know the ambulance has to stay behind the last person?! Looking forward to many more experiences.
Running the Redeye Relay
Through the evening hours of July 21st into the early morning hours of July 22nd WVRR Members Bruce Speth, Ron Shepard, Nick Braun, Scott Rhodes and driver/coach/historian Mark Achenbach completed the 104.92 mile Red Eye Relay. The Red Eye Relay is an over night relay run through the beautiful-hilly Indiana countryside north of Bloomington. The Ultra Master's Team of Speth, Shepard, Braun and Rhodes named "8 Miles in 45 Seconds" completed the course in 15 hours and 18 minutes and place First in our category. For their efforts they each received an empty beer bottle as depicted in the picture. While the award was unremarkable, the camaraderie was unforgettable. Thanks to Mark Achenbach for keeping the team on course, safe and awake. To learn the origin of the team name Google: 8 miles in 45 seconds joke. We said this was our last year doing this due to our advanced ages...we say that every year.
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBERS!!!
If you know any of all of the following WVRR's newest members touch base and welcome them to the club and maybe go for a run.
Sarah Boone-Pirtle
Benicia Broeker
Mark Broeker
Adam Broeker
Megan Stimpson
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest members and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
Great article on memories of Mayor's Cup Mile" aka "Fast Track Mile
Visit this link for an article regarding the Fast Track Mile.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner:
Bruce Speth, Age 63, Vice president of Human Resources White Construction, Board Position Vice President
How long have you been running and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I have been running since 1981, 32 years and a member since 1984. Serving my second term as Vice President, First term was 5 years long became President for 3 years and now VP for the last 10 years.
What is your running routine?
I usually 5 days a week 5 to 6 miles with a long run on the weekend.
What is your best running memory?
1. My first race at the Little Italy Festival in 1981. I had trained for the 5K and was up to 5 miles for my long run. A friend talked me into running the 10k, I survived and loved it. 2. The day in October, 1998 when I ran a 3:20 marathon and qualified for my first Boston Marathon. I had been flirting with qualify for Boston for a couple of years and finally made it.
What is your favorite race or running event?
The marathon. Ran my first marathon in 1990 in Columbus, Ohio. In 2000, I had just finished running a marathon in Alaska, my 9th marathon and thought it would be cool to attempting to run one in all 50 states.
Have you done a marathon? If not, do you have aspirations to do one?
Yes. I have finished 68 marathons and run in one in all the states except Idaho and Maine. Planning to run Idaho on August 25th and Maine on October 13.
Have you had any interesting running experiences?
Not sure where to start. I have run into friends while running on the strip in Las Vegas. Ran the hills in Berkeley and across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Love to go for an exploratory runs on vacations. I have run through strawberry fields in central California, around the Hollywood sign and up Mount Griffith in LA. I have been up and down Daytona Beach many times over the years. Running with friends in relays like the Hood to Coast, Hoosier 200, the Redeye Relay and going solo in the Hawthorne Half Day Relay. Running has taken me to lots of interesting places.
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBERS!!!
If you know any of all of the following WVRR's newest members touch base and welcome them to the club and maybe go for a run.
Alicia Fritschi
Tim Graham
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest members and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
Great article on memories of Mayor's Cup Mile" aka "Fast Track Mile
Visit this link for an article regarding the Fast Track Mile.
A Death In The WVRR Family
Today's Tribune Star reports that Don House died this week.
His obituary can be found at http://tribstar.com/obituaries/x500778820/Donald-Edward-House.
A Celebration of his life will be held Sunday, June 17, 2-6PM in WTH.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.
Action At The Kids Running Program in Deming Park
Pre-relay race prep
Runners compete in relay
NEW WVRR FAMILY MEMBERS!!!
If you know any of all of the following WVRR's newest members touch base and welcome them to the club and maybe go for a run.
Toni Bohannan
Neville James
Yu Hua
Cassie Hoggatt
Noah and Tammy Parr
The WVRR Board of Directors welcomes our newest members and looks forward to seeing all WVRR members at the next WVRR event.
Sponsor Spotlight for May:
Those of you who participated in the Swamp Stomp last month may have noticed a brochure for Terre Foods Cooperative Market (TFCM) in your runners’ bags. Some of you may have read it, but we suspect that many of you probably discarded it without taking a careful look. We urge you to take a careful look at TFCM. You will find that it represents a well organized effort to bring a local/organic/natural foods cooperative grocer to our community. Why should this effort be of any particular interest or concern to runners, you ask? Well, recent research shows that our nation’s dietary-related health problems, particularly obesity, are not simply a “calories in/calories out” issue as many exercise enthusiasts seem to believe. It is also a matter of the kinds and quality of food we eat. That’s where TFCM enters the field of vision of WVRR members. TFCM will provide an alternative to the corn, sugar, and soybean driven foodstuffs that seem to predominate on the standard superstore market shelves. Did you know that Indiana is home to many farmers who grow pesticide and herbicide free produce, grass pastured meat and dairy products, and cage free poultry and eggs? You’ll meet some of them at Terre Haute Downtown Farmers’ Market during the summer months. And once TFCM opens its doors, they will have a twelve-month-a-year place to sell their food. So, seriously consider becoming a member of this organization and support its work. You can learn more at the TFCM website at http://www.terrefoods.org. You can also learn more by visiting the TFCM table that will be set up close by the finish line at the July 4th Fast Track Mile.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner:
Mike Morris, age 61, occupation, President of Morris Trucking, Board Position, President of WVRR.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I have been running, again, for 28 years. I joined WVRR about the same time, so I could get a newsletter and find out what was going on in the running community.
What is your running routine?
I run five days a week, not always the same days of the week, for an hour. If we are doing TNT or training for a specific event my routine changes relative to the particular event.
What is your best running memory?
My best running memories are all of the runners I get to meet and talk with.
What is your favorite race?
The next one.
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
I think I have done fourteen marathons over several years. I have to plan the training and meet my goals. Then on race day it goes like Bill Rogers says, "The marathon can humble you." Just ran Boston a couple of weeks back. It was unusually warm.
Have you had any interesting running experiences?
Lots of them. There was the River to River Relay when our team was late getting out of the motel when going to the start and I was stopped by the police enroute. I was asked to be a sub for the Hood to Coast Relay in Oregon. Not a big deal, except the request was thirty-six hours prior to the start of the race and I was in Indiana. I managed to make it to the start in time. There was the time local runner, Tom Dever, asked me to join him for the Houston Marathon a week prior to the race. It was a great and interesting trip. I ran a 3:11, not bad for little training. One of the best experiences involves the Kennekuk race held in January called the Siberian. It was a year when the roads were closed due to fifteen inches of snow. Buddy Green and I trekked up to Vermilion County Illinois and ran the seven mile trail race through drifts up to our wastes. Running is many things.
To Fellow TNT and WVRR members:
I asked Myra if I could approach you all before a Saturday morning run, but I
thought maybe email would be a better avenue...
I’ve made a commitment to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Chicago on June
2-3, and I can’t wait! If you haven't heard of it, this is a two day event
during which I and thousands of others will walk a marathon and a half to bring
awareness to the fight against breast cancer. As part of the event, I pledged
to raise money. $1800 is my minimum goal, but I would like to raise more.
People can make donations on my behalf, so that I can reach my fundraising
goal.
This will be my 2nd year participating in this particular event, the first time
being in 2008.
I do this walk for so many reasons: because there are three million women in
the United States living with breast cancer-and one third of them don’t even
know it. Because no one knows what causes breast cancer or how it can be
prevented or cured. And because I know too many people who have struggled with
and been affected by this awful disease.
I have to admit; I am also doing it because it was one of the best weekends I
have ever had! It’s a community of many diverse people coming together with one
single goal-we are IN IT TO END IT!! We are greeted as heroes with every step.
It’s very powerful, and it’s a lot of fun!
One of the best parts of every Avon Walk weekend is learning how some the funds
we raised will be used. Organizations large and small throughout the Chicago
area and all over the country receive grants from the Avon Foundation for Women
to allow women and men to receive the screening, support and treatment they
require regardless of their ability to pay, and to fund leading-edge research.
All because of the support I receive from you.
Every year, there are approximately 180,000 more breast cancer diagnoses in this
country. Please consider donating to make an impact in the lives of those who
so desperately need it.
To make a tax-deductible contribution, just visit my fundraising page by
clicking on the link below or at
www.avonwalk.org (click on the pink Donate Now button, then enter my
participant name.) If you prefer to write a check, please make it payable to
“Avon Walk for Breast Cancer” and send it to me at 16800 S Trueblood Pl,
Farmersburg, IN 47850 or you could give it to me at a Saturday morning run.
I know there are so many good causes out there and it's hard to decide where to
put your money, but please consider this as a wonderful opportunity to help out
thousands of women(and men!)affected by breast cancer.
Thank you for your support!!
Sincerely,
Krissie Pickering Flesher
http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR/Walk/Chicago?px=6356301&pg=personal&fr_id=2171
ISU Runner and Sullivan, IN native Erica Moore wins the bronze in the 800M indoor event at the World Games
Sullivan, IN native and ISU grad Erica
Moore won a bronze in the 800 meter indoor at the World Games.
You can check out the video of her run
here.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner:
Donald Richards. I am 57 years old and work as a Professor of Economics at Indiana State University.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I joined WVRR in 2003. I have been a runner off and on since my graduate school days, way back in the late 70s early 80s. I am new to the WVRR Board this year and I serve as an At-Large Member.
What is your running routine?
My running routine is pretty strict during TNT as I try to follow the Mini Training Schedule as closely as possible. I try to replace “junk miles” with some type of cross training, including cycling, weights, tennis. I keep running to have improved quality long runs and speed runs.
What is your best running memory?
I would have to say my best running memory was my first Swamp Stomp, which was my first race ever. I ran the race in 35 minutes. I didn’t know what I was doing so I just ran hard. I have never run that well since. Ignorance can be an advantage.
What is your favorite race?
My favorite race is the Indy Mini. If I train hard (and don’t hurt myself) I get a good time. It is a fast course.
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
My aspirations to run a marathon are to get to the starting line of a marathon, any marathon. I’ve tried to train, but I’ve never been able to handle the training mileage. I’m injury prone. It’s taken me a long time to learn when I need to back off on training. Sometimes ignorance can be a real disadvantage.
Have you had any interesting running experiences?
My most interesting running experiences are the few occasions when I have had what I call a “zone run.” This is the term I use to describe the feeling you sometimes get when you sense you could run forever. I get this feeling very infrequently. I don’t know why or when it is going to happen and therefore I don’t know how to replicate the experience at will. If any of you know how to draw upon this sensation please share with me how you control this phenomenon.
I am a Wabash Valley Road Runner:
Hi my name is Randy Hargis, I am 45 years old and currently in the process of moving to Terre Haute from Robinson, IL. I work as a Help Desk Associate at Indiana State University.
How long have you been running and how long have you been a WVRR Member?
I've been running for the past fourteen months and this is my first year as a WVRR Member. I am excited to be the WVRR Web Dude and encourage all of you to check out the new website.
What is your running routine?
I normally run three days a week with a long run on Sunday.
Do you have any rituals or quirky traditions associated with your running?
I don't really do anything quirky or interesting when I run. I am a horror movie fan so I usually listen to podcasts while running. Lately, I have been playing "Zombies, Run!" an interactive running game for my iPhone.
What is your most memorable running event?
Finishing my first half-marathon, Blues at the Crossroads last year.
What is your favorite race?
The Midnight River Run.
Have you done a marathon and do you have aspirations to do one?
I am currently training for my first marathon, the Christie Clinic Marathon held in Champaign, IL in April.
What got you into to running?
I started running after I was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. My best friend got me into running, it was a way to keep my blood sugar regulated. Thanks to running and watching my diet I am completely off any meds for my condition.
ISU Runner and Sullivan, IN native Erica Moore wins 800M indoor event and advances to World Games
Sullivan, IN native and ISU grad Erica
Moore won the 800 meter national championship last weekend setting a US
record and is now going on to the World Games.
Check out the video of her record setting run
here.
Hello WVRR Members!
Welcome to the new WVRR Newsletter! Your place to keep up to date on what is happening in the WVRR Family. It is our mission to keep you informed of upcoming WVRR events. We also plan to share with you interesting stories and lots of fun facts about your fellow club members. To share some of those stories we want to hear from you. Send us any report of a running/walking event, competition or adventure you want to share and we will post it. Send us pics too. Thanks and check wvrr.org often.
Send your emails, stories or pics to: sc-rhodes@hotmail.com