- Published on
The Central Maine Striders are proud to have several active members that have been with us since the early days of the club. "Catching Up With The Pack" is where we track some of them down and get some updates on what's going on in their life these days. Last month, we caught up with Gust Stringos. And this month, as I was gathering articles for our latest edition of "Running Backwards: A Jog Through the Strider Archives", I came across a couple excellent articles by Joanie Rhoda about her experience qualifying for the Boston Marathon at the age of 59, only to have her Boston experience marred by the 2013 bombing. Since our flashback to 2013 was getting to be a pretty long article, I decided to include her 2012 and 2013 marathon articles here, along with our "catching up" with her.
I believe the last time I wrote in the Club newsletter was in 2013 after running in the Boston Marathon. That was the race where the terrible bombing happened at the finish line. I had reached the 25 1/2 mile mark with less than a mile to go when the throngs of runners were stopped in their tracks and could not complete the race. It was a heartbreaking moment for me and I’m sure for thousands of other runners to not complete something we had aspired to and trained for, for months and even years.
However, I found a way I could mend the brokenness I felt over what happened. In the spring of 2014, my son Adam, who was flying home to Maine from Seattle where he lives, met me in Boston and together we ran the last mile of the marathon. It wasn’t quite the same as it would have been on race day – we had to dodge people on the sidewalks – but it did heal my heart somewhat and brought some closure to an event that started out so joyfully and ended so tragically.
As a longtime member of the Central Maine Striders (it was the Maine Road Ramblers back in the 70’s), I was asked to provide an update on my running life now. Unfortunately I had to stop running in 2016 due to arthritis in my second toe. With bone on bone, it caused quite a bit of pain. I believe the injury was caused by dropping a can on my toe years ago or by a horse that stepped on my foot a long time ago. Surely running wouldn’t have caused it! My second toe was the only joint affected. In 2017, I had an implant inserted into the toe joint which helped decrease the pain but not enough for me to feel safe stressing it by running. I miss running very much. It was part of my life for 45 years, and wasn’t something I ever thought I would stop doing. In the beginning after the surgery, whenever I saw a runner on the road, I’d feel a stabbing sensation in my heart because I wanted to be that runner in the worst way.
It’s been 3 years since the surgery, and I can look back on the years and races with happiness and pride. I had run in countless races and completed 9 marathons, including 6 miles of the Boston Marathon while 8 months pregnant in 1984. The Club was a source of unity for runners like me. The joy of running united all of us, and because of that, we were all friends.
I have found other ways to exercise that are just as satisfying (well almost) as running – walking, bicycling, and backpacking. I am a section-hiker of the Appalachian Trail and have back-packed from Georgia to Vermont – over 1,600 miles – over 15 years. My husband and I have about 600 miles to go over some of the toughest sections of the entire Trail. I consider it an adventure of a lifetime which will take the rest of my lifetime to complete.
I look forward to reading the stories of other Club members, especially the friends I had back in the early days.
Joanie Rhoda
However, I found a way I could mend the brokenness I felt over what happened. In the spring of 2014, my son Adam, who was flying home to Maine from Seattle where he lives, met me in Boston and together we ran the last mile of the marathon. It wasn’t quite the same as it would have been on race day – we had to dodge people on the sidewalks – but it did heal my heart somewhat and brought some closure to an event that started out so joyfully and ended so tragically.
As a longtime member of the Central Maine Striders (it was the Maine Road Ramblers back in the 70’s), I was asked to provide an update on my running life now. Unfortunately I had to stop running in 2016 due to arthritis in my second toe. With bone on bone, it caused quite a bit of pain. I believe the injury was caused by dropping a can on my toe years ago or by a horse that stepped on my foot a long time ago. Surely running wouldn’t have caused it! My second toe was the only joint affected. In 2017, I had an implant inserted into the toe joint which helped decrease the pain but not enough for me to feel safe stressing it by running. I miss running very much. It was part of my life for 45 years, and wasn’t something I ever thought I would stop doing. In the beginning after the surgery, whenever I saw a runner on the road, I’d feel a stabbing sensation in my heart because I wanted to be that runner in the worst way.
It’s been 3 years since the surgery, and I can look back on the years and races with happiness and pride. I had run in countless races and completed 9 marathons, including 6 miles of the Boston Marathon while 8 months pregnant in 1984. The Club was a source of unity for runners like me. The joy of running united all of us, and because of that, we were all friends.
I have found other ways to exercise that are just as satisfying (well almost) as running – walking, bicycling, and backpacking. I am a section-hiker of the Appalachian Trail and have back-packed from Georgia to Vermont – over 1,600 miles – over 15 years. My husband and I have about 600 miles to go over some of the toughest sections of the entire Trail. I consider it an adventure of a lifetime which will take the rest of my lifetime to complete.
I look forward to reading the stories of other Club members, especially the friends I had back in the early days.
Joanie Rhoda
From the March 2012 issue of The Interval:
From the July 2013 issue of The Interval:
From the August 2013 issue of The Interval:
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"Meet Our Members" is where we get to know a little more about our fellow Striders -- who they are, why they run, and why they're part of the Central Maine Striders.
Alicia Wilcox is a mother of 13-year-old twins and an associate professor at Thomas College. She teaches forensic science and criminal justice classes. She also has a forensic consulting company and likes to garden, travel, and hike.
"I started running in the summer of 2014 at age 36. I was in the middle of my PhD program and expressed my feelings of stress to a friend. She was training with another woman for the Maine 1/2 marathon. They intended running a long run of 8 miles that weekend. I said I would join them for two or three miles. I ended up running the 8 miles with them and felt great. A few weeks later I applied for a cancellation spot in the 1/2 marathon and got in. I completed that 1/2 in under 2 hours with very little training.
I was hooked and running helped me through the stress of my PhD. I have since completed 16 half marathons, my most recent was the Shipyard Maine Coast Half, which was virtual, meaning, I ran by myself!
The women I used to run with don't run anymore. So this year I decided to join the Central Maine Striders to make new running friends. I participated in the January Thaw and ran with a small group one Sunday morning before the pandemic struck. I look forward to meeting new striders in the future. At the moment I am running the quarry road series and a 312K series Baxter to Baxter (from the state park to Baxter Brewing, in Lewiston).
I love the simplicity of running, all you need is a good pair of sneakers and some happy music."
Alicia, we're glad you're a Strider and hope to see you and get to know you at more Strider events in the future, whenever we're able to hold in-person events again.
Alicia Wilcox is a mother of 13-year-old twins and an associate professor at Thomas College. She teaches forensic science and criminal justice classes. She also has a forensic consulting company and likes to garden, travel, and hike.
"I started running in the summer of 2014 at age 36. I was in the middle of my PhD program and expressed my feelings of stress to a friend. She was training with another woman for the Maine 1/2 marathon. They intended running a long run of 8 miles that weekend. I said I would join them for two or three miles. I ended up running the 8 miles with them and felt great. A few weeks later I applied for a cancellation spot in the 1/2 marathon and got in. I completed that 1/2 in under 2 hours with very little training.
I was hooked and running helped me through the stress of my PhD. I have since completed 16 half marathons, my most recent was the Shipyard Maine Coast Half, which was virtual, meaning, I ran by myself!
The women I used to run with don't run anymore. So this year I decided to join the Central Maine Striders to make new running friends. I participated in the January Thaw and ran with a small group one Sunday morning before the pandemic struck. I look forward to meeting new striders in the future. At the moment I am running the quarry road series and a 312K series Baxter to Baxter (from the state park to Baxter Brewing, in Lewiston).
I love the simplicity of running, all you need is a good pair of sneakers and some happy music."
Alicia, we're glad you're a Strider and hope to see you and get to know you at more Strider events in the future, whenever we're able to hold in-person events again.
- Published on
The Central Maine Striders are proud to have several active members that have been with us since the early days of the club. One of those members, whose name you may recognize from our latest Running Backwards article, is Gust Stringos. Since he was featured under the "New Members" section back in 1983, we thought we'd reach out to him and get an update. Here's what he had to say:
I am 65 now, and live in the same house in Skowhegan! I did run the Maine Coast Marathon, with a time just under 3:05, not enough to qualify for Boston. I did continue my medical training, and have been a family practice physician in Skowhegan for 30+ years, and am currently Medical Director of Redington-Fairview Hospital here. I still enjoy gardening and Beekeeping. Two years ago, I tore a hamstring muscle in a skiing accident, and my competitive running has taken a big hit as a consequence, but I still try to get in 2-3 miles several times a week. And I am still proud to be a Central Maine Strider!
Gust, we're proud to have you as a longtime member as well. Thanks for giving us an update!
I am 65 now, and live in the same house in Skowhegan! I did run the Maine Coast Marathon, with a time just under 3:05, not enough to qualify for Boston. I did continue my medical training, and have been a family practice physician in Skowhegan for 30+ years, and am currently Medical Director of Redington-Fairview Hospital here. I still enjoy gardening and Beekeeping. Two years ago, I tore a hamstring muscle in a skiing accident, and my competitive running has taken a big hit as a consequence, but I still try to get in 2-3 miles several times a week. And I am still proud to be a Central Maine Strider!
Gust, we're proud to have you as a longtime member as well. Thanks for giving us an update!
- Published on
"Meet Our Members" is where we get to know a little more about our fellow Striders -- who they are, why they run, and why they're part of the Central Maine Striders.
In this edition of "Meet Our Members", Kelley Carter agreed to answer our questions over email. Kelley lives in Pittsfield and is one of the newer Central Maine Striders members.
In this edition of "Meet Our Members", Kelley Carter agreed to answer our questions over email. Kelley lives in Pittsfield and is one of the newer Central Maine Striders members.
Sugarloaf Marathon 2019
When and why did you start running? My running can really be broken up into two distinct segments: before kids and after kids. Before kids, I liked to run, but never really took it that seriously. I knew that it was a "thing" that I was pretty decent at - I just never put any real effort into it. However, I did have this crazy ambition to do the Boston Marathon - like everyone else, right? After kids, (like 19 years after our first born), and 30lbs of added weight, I decided that I wanted to chase down that marathon goal. So I started in December 2018, quickly discovering that my body couldn't handle the types of runs I remembered 20 years prior (go figure!). Still, I took a careful, methodical approach, making sure to put as much effort into recovery as actual training. From there, my goal was to stay injury-free and just have fun.
One of the things that helped trigger my return to running was the fact that I turned 50 in 2019. Having the desire to do a marathon, I figured if I didn't do it now, I might not ever do it. Leading up to Sugarloaf, I was pretty certain that I'd be a "one-n-done" type of marathoner. Not fifteen minutes after completing that event, when I could barely walk from unspeakable pain I'd never felt before, my wife asked me if I'd ever do it again. Without hesitation, I responded with a firm "hell yeah!" I seem to have a mild obsession with it now, that I should probably seek counseling for! I'll never be a competitive runner, but for what it does for my mental state, I hope I never have to stop.
Did you manage to reach that Boston qualifying goal?
I have not been able to hit that BQ objective - YET! Although my PB at the half is pretty decent for my age at 1 hr 41 min, I've had a hard time translating that to the marathon distance. I've always seemed to show up at the starting line completely ready to go. However, I struggle to hold back on first half of the distance. As a consequence, I tend to hit that wall pretty hard. During the Maine Marathon in October, my mile splits were all sub-9 minutes, and even a couple of sub-8, through mile 20. The last 6 were barely sub-12!! Clearly, I need to find more patience for the first half!
Was there anyone who inspired you to start running (a friend, a family members, or a professional athlete)? I've never really thought about that, but I guess my favorite uncle first piqued my interest in running, when I saw him compete in a marathon in Austin, TX, way back in the late 70's. But that was just one of many crazy and adventurous things he's done in his life. I suppose I kinda follow in that same frame of mind. There are definitely a ton of other people that have inspired me along the way. Stories of real people doing really incredible stuff... running-related or not, surviving against insurmountable odds, or overcoming an impossible obstacle... give me strength and determination to push forward, even when I don't want to. I also try remember to be grateful for everything I have - that there are countless humans who suffer, but are still genuinely thankful for the very little blessings they do have - those people inspire me more than any.
Of the three marathons you ran in 2019, which was your favorite and why?
Of the three marathons I ran in 2019, each offered something very special for me, and all were definite favorites for very different reasons. Sugarloaf was special because it was my first and it was an absolute blast. The support from the organizers, to the participants, to the wacky crowds was super cool, and made the event a ton of fun. What wasn't fun was the cold, rainy weather! The Maine Marathon was epic for the dedicated supporters on the sidelines - the live bands, the hilarious signs, folks cheering you on by name - awesome. Pretty nice scenery too. Millinocket....what can I say about Millinocket? It is beyond words really. In my mind, that event is all about giving back and helping that little town come alive. It's less about running. However! The run is definitely part of the incredible experience, from Fireball shot stations, delicious soup, hot Gatorade, and so much more makes for a memorable experience with a huge desire to do it again. I should mention I learned that the speedy shoes can be left at home. This event is more like a slow, long run than a PR opportunity. Of the three marathons, if I could only choose one to run again, for now it would have to be Sugarloaf - just to prove to myself that I can beat the 4-hour mark!!! With assistance from gravity of course!
How did you find out about the Central Maine Striders and why did you join us? I first stumbled across Central Maine Striders on Facebook I think, and then again on Strava. Years ago, in Providence RI, I belonged to a corporate running group, as well as a local running club. I remember the camaraderie, support and energy that we all benefited from, just by training and participating in events. It was a big sense of community, and actually pushed me to train harder and more consistently that I probably would've otherwise done on my own. I decided to join Central Maine Striders one, because the group is relatively close to where I live, and two, because I want to be more active in the running community in general. I find running can be a pretty lonely endeavor - which isn't always bad and often times the one place where I can find peace in an otherwise chaotic world - but I miss sharing the joy of running with others. Non-runners just don't get it, do they? Lol.
What do you do when you're not running?
When I'm not running, I keep myself occupied with work and outdoor stuff. Backpacking in the back-country with my family is my all-time favorite recreational activity. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest with as many rich experiences as possible, in my opinion. Work is just a means to an end. Thankfully, my employer, Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union, gives me plenty of opportunity to do the things I enjoy the most.
I have not been able to hit that BQ objective - YET! Although my PB at the half is pretty decent for my age at 1 hr 41 min, I've had a hard time translating that to the marathon distance. I've always seemed to show up at the starting line completely ready to go. However, I struggle to hold back on first half of the distance. As a consequence, I tend to hit that wall pretty hard. During the Maine Marathon in October, my mile splits were all sub-9 minutes, and even a couple of sub-8, through mile 20. The last 6 were barely sub-12!! Clearly, I need to find more patience for the first half!
Was there anyone who inspired you to start running (a friend, a family members, or a professional athlete)? I've never really thought about that, but I guess my favorite uncle first piqued my interest in running, when I saw him compete in a marathon in Austin, TX, way back in the late 70's. But that was just one of many crazy and adventurous things he's done in his life. I suppose I kinda follow in that same frame of mind. There are definitely a ton of other people that have inspired me along the way. Stories of real people doing really incredible stuff... running-related or not, surviving against insurmountable odds, or overcoming an impossible obstacle... give me strength and determination to push forward, even when I don't want to. I also try remember to be grateful for everything I have - that there are countless humans who suffer, but are still genuinely thankful for the very little blessings they do have - those people inspire me more than any.
Of the three marathons you ran in 2019, which was your favorite and why?
Of the three marathons I ran in 2019, each offered something very special for me, and all were definite favorites for very different reasons. Sugarloaf was special because it was my first and it was an absolute blast. The support from the organizers, to the participants, to the wacky crowds was super cool, and made the event a ton of fun. What wasn't fun was the cold, rainy weather! The Maine Marathon was epic for the dedicated supporters on the sidelines - the live bands, the hilarious signs, folks cheering you on by name - awesome. Pretty nice scenery too. Millinocket....what can I say about Millinocket? It is beyond words really. In my mind, that event is all about giving back and helping that little town come alive. It's less about running. However! The run is definitely part of the incredible experience, from Fireball shot stations, delicious soup, hot Gatorade, and so much more makes for a memorable experience with a huge desire to do it again. I should mention I learned that the speedy shoes can be left at home. This event is more like a slow, long run than a PR opportunity. Of the three marathons, if I could only choose one to run again, for now it would have to be Sugarloaf - just to prove to myself that I can beat the 4-hour mark!!! With assistance from gravity of course!
How did you find out about the Central Maine Striders and why did you join us? I first stumbled across Central Maine Striders on Facebook I think, and then again on Strava. Years ago, in Providence RI, I belonged to a corporate running group, as well as a local running club. I remember the camaraderie, support and energy that we all benefited from, just by training and participating in events. It was a big sense of community, and actually pushed me to train harder and more consistently that I probably would've otherwise done on my own. I decided to join Central Maine Striders one, because the group is relatively close to where I live, and two, because I want to be more active in the running community in general. I find running can be a pretty lonely endeavor - which isn't always bad and often times the one place where I can find peace in an otherwise chaotic world - but I miss sharing the joy of running with others. Non-runners just don't get it, do they? Lol.
What do you do when you're not running?
When I'm not running, I keep myself occupied with work and outdoor stuff. Backpacking in the back-country with my family is my all-time favorite recreational activity. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest with as many rich experiences as possible, in my opinion. Work is just a means to an end. Thankfully, my employer, Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union, gives me plenty of opportunity to do the things I enjoy the most.
Maine Marathon 2019
Maine Marathon 2019
Thanks for joining the Striders and for letting us get to know you better, Kelley. We're looking forward to see you at some of our events in the future (whenever that's allowed again).
- Published on
by Harold Shaw
Let’s think for a minute - for the year 2020 we all probably had goal races, big plans and were going to accomplish many of them.
Basically, my goals in 2020 were to race more than I have in a long time, well as long as the old body held up to the demands of training for an October 18th super-secret race. Unfortunately, like most of you, back in March I put all those great plans, goals, or whatever you want to call them...well to be blunt I and most other runners I know threw most everything out the window when....
The Coronavirus pandemic happened.
Which largely ended many of our plans for spring racing and restarting of Strider group runs (thank you Sapan, Jordan, & Julie), where members were beginning to enjoy the camaraderie of being around our friends or meeting new friends through running again.
Let’s think for a minute - for the year 2020 we all probably had goal races, big plans and were going to accomplish many of them.
Basically, my goals in 2020 were to race more than I have in a long time, well as long as the old body held up to the demands of training for an October 18th super-secret race. Unfortunately, like most of you, back in March I put all those great plans, goals, or whatever you want to call them...well to be blunt I and most other runners I know threw most everything out the window when....
The Coronavirus pandemic happened.
Which largely ended many of our plans for spring racing and restarting of Strider group runs (thank you Sapan, Jordan, & Julie), where members were beginning to enjoy the camaraderie of being around our friends or meeting new friends through running again.
Unfortunately, the way things look now this pandemic has also put both the summer and possibly/probably the fall racing and schedule for any major races in jeopardy, along with Strider plans for group runs as well. This most likely means that our running will not be about preparing for racing (other than virtual races) or spending time running together anytime soon.
That sucks!!!
All those plans, goals and motivation to run - gone...so what are we supposed to do now?
Keep running of course.
Okay, enough whining about COVID 19, it is here, we are dealing with it and we have choices:
Okay, if you are reading this newsletter and are a Strider, #1 is not the answer you are looking for. I don’t know about you, but if I stopped doing the things I still can do, I would gain 20-30 pounds over the next few months and become unhealthy again. Like most of us I have worked too hard to go back to that lifestyle.
#2 is appealing to many of us, constantly training for races either believing that they will probably be canceled or turned into virtual races just doesn’t work for most of us. It will probably only result in injury or burn-out.
Unfortunately, without being too negative, I just don’t see major races happening until there is a vaccine or some miracle cure comes along from the good people over at Colby - which means no major races in 2020. However, I am hopeful that there might be some smaller local races allowed in the fall.
For me, the choice was easy #3.
Base Building - Building a good mileage base is crucial for running better - just the way it is. Putting in the miles necessary to be in shape before the training that we will be doing for races in the future is a great investment in our running - call it prep work. Especially since there is no pressure to perform or get ready for a race anytime soon, we can increase our mileage to higher levels at a healthy progression, versus the usual do too much too fast and finally get off the injured merry-go-round that many of us ride.
Weaknesses - We all have them and yes, we hate to admit it. Whether they are strength training, yoga, pre and post-run routines, improving running form, our diet, learning more about different training methods, attempting something new versus the same old same old that we always have done, looking at changes to running shoes and of course learning more about the mental side of running.
So much to do and so little time...well we have a little more time now to take a look at those weaknesses and make changes or turn them into strengths.
Staying Healthy - Running, in my opinion, does help to improve our health both physically, mentally and, from what I have read lately, probably helps improve the immune system as well. However, in these uncertain times, too much of a good thing can also be detrimental to our health. This is probably not the time to be doing Yasso 800s, 20+ mile training runs, 12x400 at mile race pace, or any of those myriads of workouts we runners do that leave us totally drained and may weaken our immune system at a time when we need it to be at its best.
Personally, I have taken the conservative approach and am attempting to limit my mileage to 25-35 miles a week, with most of the runs at the comfortable effort level, not a certain pace. Once or maybe twice a week, I might go ahead and do a comfortably hard run, but very little running at harder paces and then that is usually by accident. Also, I have limited my longer runs to 6-8 miles. Could I do more - sure, but at this point, I want to be healthy more than I want to increase my speed or mileage.
I know this does seem to conflict with my comments on base building, but if/when I decide to increase my base mileage I can do it intelligently and still be healthy.
Having Fun - How many of us take our running so seriously that we forget that for most of us running is not our day job and we need to look closer at why we run and if we need to make changes to make it a more positive part of our lives. Many of us plan, tinker, read about, study our training logs for trends, pour over graphs, charts and summaries of our recent efforts and we forget that our running is supposed to be something we enjoy...yeah fun, not yet another stressor in our lives.
Think about it, when was the last time you were out on a run where you stopped, looked around and thought to yourself “How lucky I am to be out doing this thing that I love!” Smiled a big smile, laughed out loud, then sheepishly looked around quickly to see who saw you laughing and still felt like the weight of the world has been thrown off your shoulders. If it has been a while you might want to think about what running really means to you. Running should not be another chore that we dread simply to get ready for another race - a means to an end.
Running can be so much more than that.
If you primarily run on the roads, maybe attempting some easier trails (there are several in the area), barefoot strides on grass, running at different times of the day, doing a scavenger hunt while running, stopping to take photos of odd, unusual or stunningly gorgeous scenes that you will see. There are many things that we can do while we are running to make it seem less like drudgery and more fun.
No, it does not always mean to be plugged into your music playlist either, it might be time to listen to nature’s music.
The reality is that
Runners run for many reasons and having the motivation of an upcoming race is great, although not being able to race is not the end of our running journey. Especially, when we are members of the Central Maine Striders because we are also a part of a larger running community that supports and helps each other with our running and often beyond running.
The next time you can - watch how children run. They do not run hunched over, their faces grim and focused on the ground in front of them as they gasp for air - you know like the guy in the photo below.
That sucks!!!
All those plans, goals and motivation to run - gone...so what are we supposed to do now?
Keep running of course.
Okay, enough whining about COVID 19, it is here, we are dealing with it and we have choices:
- Sit on the couch, watch TV, drink adult beverages, mash chips, whoopie pies or other great tasting stuff into our pie holes, add on a lot of lardage, continue to whine and complain about how unfair life is and sulk all the time. Then when you can start to train for those races your body is going to tell you in no uncertain terms I haven’t done this for awhile and probably rebel against your idea of what it should be doing.
- Just keep training for the races and hope that they happen.
- We can keep running and work on building a base, improving our weaknesses, staying healthy, and focus more on simply running to have fun.
Okay, if you are reading this newsletter and are a Strider, #1 is not the answer you are looking for. I don’t know about you, but if I stopped doing the things I still can do, I would gain 20-30 pounds over the next few months and become unhealthy again. Like most of us I have worked too hard to go back to that lifestyle.
#2 is appealing to many of us, constantly training for races either believing that they will probably be canceled or turned into virtual races just doesn’t work for most of us. It will probably only result in injury or burn-out.
Unfortunately, without being too negative, I just don’t see major races happening until there is a vaccine or some miracle cure comes along from the good people over at Colby - which means no major races in 2020. However, I am hopeful that there might be some smaller local races allowed in the fall.
For me, the choice was easy #3.
Base Building - Building a good mileage base is crucial for running better - just the way it is. Putting in the miles necessary to be in shape before the training that we will be doing for races in the future is a great investment in our running - call it prep work. Especially since there is no pressure to perform or get ready for a race anytime soon, we can increase our mileage to higher levels at a healthy progression, versus the usual do too much too fast and finally get off the injured merry-go-round that many of us ride.
Weaknesses - We all have them and yes, we hate to admit it. Whether they are strength training, yoga, pre and post-run routines, improving running form, our diet, learning more about different training methods, attempting something new versus the same old same old that we always have done, looking at changes to running shoes and of course learning more about the mental side of running.
So much to do and so little time...well we have a little more time now to take a look at those weaknesses and make changes or turn them into strengths.
Staying Healthy - Running, in my opinion, does help to improve our health both physically, mentally and, from what I have read lately, probably helps improve the immune system as well. However, in these uncertain times, too much of a good thing can also be detrimental to our health. This is probably not the time to be doing Yasso 800s, 20+ mile training runs, 12x400 at mile race pace, or any of those myriads of workouts we runners do that leave us totally drained and may weaken our immune system at a time when we need it to be at its best.
Personally, I have taken the conservative approach and am attempting to limit my mileage to 25-35 miles a week, with most of the runs at the comfortable effort level, not a certain pace. Once or maybe twice a week, I might go ahead and do a comfortably hard run, but very little running at harder paces and then that is usually by accident. Also, I have limited my longer runs to 6-8 miles. Could I do more - sure, but at this point, I want to be healthy more than I want to increase my speed or mileage.
I know this does seem to conflict with my comments on base building, but if/when I decide to increase my base mileage I can do it intelligently and still be healthy.
Having Fun - How many of us take our running so seriously that we forget that for most of us running is not our day job and we need to look closer at why we run and if we need to make changes to make it a more positive part of our lives. Many of us plan, tinker, read about, study our training logs for trends, pour over graphs, charts and summaries of our recent efforts and we forget that our running is supposed to be something we enjoy...yeah fun, not yet another stressor in our lives.
Think about it, when was the last time you were out on a run where you stopped, looked around and thought to yourself “How lucky I am to be out doing this thing that I love!” Smiled a big smile, laughed out loud, then sheepishly looked around quickly to see who saw you laughing and still felt like the weight of the world has been thrown off your shoulders. If it has been a while you might want to think about what running really means to you. Running should not be another chore that we dread simply to get ready for another race - a means to an end.
Running can be so much more than that.
If you primarily run on the roads, maybe attempting some easier trails (there are several in the area), barefoot strides on grass, running at different times of the day, doing a scavenger hunt while running, stopping to take photos of odd, unusual or stunningly gorgeous scenes that you will see. There are many things that we can do while we are running to make it seem less like drudgery and more fun.
No, it does not always mean to be plugged into your music playlist either, it might be time to listen to nature’s music.
The reality is that
Runners run for many reasons and having the motivation of an upcoming race is great, although not being able to race is not the end of our running journey. Especially, when we are members of the Central Maine Striders because we are also a part of a larger running community that supports and helps each other with our running and often beyond running.
The next time you can - watch how children run. They do not run hunched over, their faces grim and focused on the ground in front of them as they gasp for air - you know like the guy in the photo below.
They run with joy, giggles and abandonment that we have forgotten in our efforts to be grown-up. Their heads are up, big grins and lots of laughter and yes, they do suddenly stop to look at the butterfly flitting around their heads or the thing crawling around on the grass. Maybe we need to lighten up and find some of that joy in our running and make running fun again.
At some point the pandemic will be under control enough so that racing and our training for those goals we have will return, but until it does we can keep running, smile more, remember to stop in the middle of a run and looking around thinking about the idea that “I get to run, versus I have to run” and yes, running can be fun.
Who knows maybe I will get to train for that super double-secret race on October 18th, but I don’t think that I will be holding my breath too long in hopes of it actually happening.
However, I do hope that we get to start up the Strider group runs as soon as we are allowed to. Although I have a feeling that those of us who are in the more at risk group for the Coronavirus will wait until things are even more calmed down.
Stay safe and be well
Harold
At some point the pandemic will be under control enough so that racing and our training for those goals we have will return, but until it does we can keep running, smile more, remember to stop in the middle of a run and looking around thinking about the idea that “I get to run, versus I have to run” and yes, running can be fun.
Who knows maybe I will get to train for that super double-secret race on October 18th, but I don’t think that I will be holding my breath too long in hopes of it actually happening.
However, I do hope that we get to start up the Strider group runs as soon as we are allowed to. Although I have a feeling that those of us who are in the more at risk group for the Coronavirus will wait until things are even more calmed down.
Stay safe and be well
Harold
- Published on
Jordan Castillo moved to central Maine a couple years ago. The first time he attended a Central Maine Striders meeting was last December. By the end of that meeting, he had been voted in as the new club Vice President. In his short tenure as the VP, he's organized several group runs (and brunches), started the club's Instagram account, and generally been one of the more energetic and enthusiastic club members. One weekend at brunch this winter, he shared the story of how he started running. It was such a great story that I asked him if he could write it up for the club webpage and newsletter. So, just in case you weren't at that brunch, here's Jordan's running story:
"Hey, how about we run a marathon?"
One day after school during my 10th grade year, my dad asked me a question that became the spark to a life-changing journey.
“Hey, Jordan, how about we sign up for a marathon?”
I turned to him and gawked at this absurd-sounding question. “Dad, what? Are you for real?”
“Hey, Jordan, how about we sign up for a marathon?”
I turned to him and gawked at this absurd-sounding question. “Dad, what? Are you for real?”
With confidence and excitement, he responded, “Yeah! Your younger brother is going to join, too! C’mon! It’ll be fun!”
After feeling a bit uncertain, I eventually agreed to sign up with my dad and brother for Grandma’s Marathon, set to take place June 20, 2009 in Duluth, MN. I felt like I had no idea what I was signing up for. But if my dad believed I could run a marathon, then so did I.
Training began in January, which means I quickly learned how to brave running with near-zero temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks. Our first run was three miles at a slow, jogging pace. It was a slog. At the end of the run, I probably screamed something like, “Dad, how the heck are we going to get up to 26.2 miles? Three miles is enough, this is crazy!”
Training began in January, which means I quickly learned how to brave running with near-zero temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks. Our first run was three miles at a slow, jogging pace. It was a slog. At the end of the run, I probably screamed something like, “Dad, how the heck are we going to get up to 26.2 miles? Three miles is enough, this is crazy!”
I was so excited to finish my first ever marathon... you can tell how tired I was (I'm on the left)!
Slowly, but surely, my brother and I began to see the results of our training. Three miles started to feel like a warm-up distance. I began to feel like I could slow my breath enough to even carry a conversation while running. The first time I finished a 13.1-mile run, I felt like a straight-up champion. Many times, my brother and I would join my dad’s running club for long runs on the weekends. The runners carried such an encouraging, infectious energy. They loved seeing young people like my brother and I training for a such a big race, and it was always motivating to hear their stories about running accomplishments and the goals they were setting for themselves.
As the weeks passed, I came to believe that finishing a marathon was actually possible—I just had to stick with the training plan and know that my body was capable of carrying me further than I could ever imagine.
Fast-forward to race day. I had barely slept because I was so nervous and excited. With my green singlet and black running shorts, I joined the other runners in the starting area. It was a clear, sunny day and 6,000 of us were about to embark on this 26.2-mile journey along the beautiful north shore of Lake Superior.
As the weeks passed, I came to believe that finishing a marathon was actually possible—I just had to stick with the training plan and know that my body was capable of carrying me further than I could ever imagine.
Fast-forward to race day. I had barely slept because I was so nervous and excited. With my green singlet and black running shorts, I joined the other runners in the starting area. It was a clear, sunny day and 6,000 of us were about to embark on this 26.2-mile journey along the beautiful north shore of Lake Superior.
I also need to take a moment to explain what it felt like to be at that starting line. If you’ve ever participated in a race, you know that the race environment is unreal—full of positivity, motivation, excitement, and thrill. The energy is so electric, it’s almost tangible. Another part of my experience is that some of the runners would give looks of delightful surprise to see my brother and I with our race bibs labeled with the word “Marathon.” I knew I wasn’t about to break any world records or anything, but it felt pretty great knowing that I was one of the youngest people in the race. Standing with the thousands of others about to run Grandma’s Marathon, I truly felt like there was no place I’d rather be, nothing I’d rather be doing than finishing my first marathon.
“3, 2, 1!” Bang. And the race began.
“3, 2, 1!” Bang. And the race began.
The 2011 Minneapolis Marathon was the first race I did with both my brothers and my dad... we all finished together!
One of my strongest memories of the race is the feeling of camaraderie between my dad, my brother, and me. They always kept me focused on the goal, especially near the end when I felt more fatigued than ever and I began to seriously doubt whether I could finish. I also remember all the fans on the side of the road who encouraged us and handed out free water, Gatorade, salty snacks. Some of the fans even had water hoses to cool us off, and some were literally grilling on the side of the road and giving out hot dogs and hamburgers. There were so many moments during the race when I just felt rushes of gratitude and excitement from seeing all the fans. Crowd support makes such a huge difference!
Around mile 23, I started to hit “the wall.” Each step felt like it required ten times the normal amount of effort, and I felt all my muscles ache with each strike of the ground. I actually remember feeling angry and wondering why I was running the race in the first place. My brother was so good at reminding me that this race was possible and that we were going to make it to the end. I was in so much pain, so my brother’s encouragement made a huge difference.
Without a doubt, the final .2 miles of the race was the most agonizing, challenging part. I remember passing the 26th mile marker and thinking, “Wow! I’m done! We are at the finish line!” But the reality is that .2 miles is still .2 miles. It also didn’t help that there were still a few turns after mile 26, so I couldn’t even see the finish line until a minute or so after passing the final mile marker. When I eventually did see that finish line, though, I ran with everything I had.
“From Lakeville, Minnesota, we have Jordan and Spencer Castillo, about to finish their first Grandma’s Marathon!” The announcer was cheering us on, along with the hundreds of fans lining each side of the road. Those last few seconds of the race seemed to last an eternity, and I couldn’t believe that I was actually about to be done running those 26.2 miles. With a time of just under five hours, my brother and I crossed the finish line. My dad and brother were right there, and we grabbed each other with a sweaty, beautiful embrace. I felt a sudden rush of accomplishment, relief, pride, and overwhelming joy like I’d never felt before. At the age of 16, I had just finished my first marathon.
Without a doubt, the final .2 miles of the race was the most agonizing, challenging part. I remember passing the 26th mile marker and thinking, “Wow! I’m done! We are at the finish line!” But the reality is that .2 miles is still .2 miles. It also didn’t help that there were still a few turns after mile 26, so I couldn’t even see the finish line until a minute or so after passing the final mile marker. When I eventually did see that finish line, though, I ran with everything I had.
“From Lakeville, Minnesota, we have Jordan and Spencer Castillo, about to finish their first Grandma’s Marathon!” The announcer was cheering us on, along with the hundreds of fans lining each side of the road. Those last few seconds of the race seemed to last an eternity, and I couldn’t believe that I was actually about to be done running those 26.2 miles. With a time of just under five hours, my brother and I crossed the finish line. My dad and brother were right there, and we grabbed each other with a sweaty, beautiful embrace. I felt a sudden rush of accomplishment, relief, pride, and overwhelming joy like I’d never felt before. At the age of 16, I had just finished my first marathon.
Last year's Moose Mountain Trail Marathon... you can tell it's only mile 2, I've still got so much energy! =D
Moose Mountain Trail Marathon victory photo with the bro's... feeling so fortunate to finish this race with them!
During the drive home, my Dad turned to my brother and me and blurted, “So, who’s ready for the next marathon?”
“Haha, are you kidding me? Too soon, Dad,” I answered. “Maybe in a month, you can ask me then.” And a few months later, my dad did, in fact, ask me about running Grandma’s Marathon again.
“Sure, why not,” I responded with a soft smile.
So, the next year, I ran my second Grandma’s Marathon. The year after that, I ran another marathon with my dad, and the year after that, too. Because of that initial nudge from my dad, I have been running long-distance consistently for 11 years now. I am proud to say that last month I completed my tenth marathon in Napa, California (with a PR of 3:29!), and in less than three months I will go back to where it all began to run Grandma’s Marathon again, this time with the intention of qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
“Haha, are you kidding me? Too soon, Dad,” I answered. “Maybe in a month, you can ask me then.” And a few months later, my dad did, in fact, ask me about running Grandma’s Marathon again.
“Sure, why not,” I responded with a soft smile.
So, the next year, I ran my second Grandma’s Marathon. The year after that, I ran another marathon with my dad, and the year after that, too. Because of that initial nudge from my dad, I have been running long-distance consistently for 11 years now. I am proud to say that last month I completed my tenth marathon in Napa, California (with a PR of 3:29!), and in less than three months I will go back to where it all began to run Grandma’s Marathon again, this time with the intention of qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
Running has become my stress-reliever, my motivator, my opportunity to center myself and reflect on things like gratitude, well-being, and vision for my life. Running reminds me that I am always capable of more than I might think in a moment, and that our realities are largely defined (and sometimes limited) by our minds. Running has become my way to communicate a mantra to the universe: “I can.”
Thanks for reading this story. Each member of the Central Maine Striders community has their own unique “why” behind running, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share about mine.
To close, I’d like to leave you with something to reflect on: What is your “why” behind running? And what might your running experience be teaching you?
Thanks for reading this story. Each member of the Central Maine Striders community has their own unique “why” behind running, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share about mine.
To close, I’d like to leave you with something to reflect on: What is your “why” behind running? And what might your running experience be teaching you?
I convinced my good friend, Luis, to run Napa Valley Marathon with me last month. Running with friends gives me LIFE!
Thanks for sharing your running story with us, Jordan! We love the energy and enthusiasm that you've brought to the club.
If any of you would like to be featured in a "Meet Our Members" article, contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com. We'd be more than happy to publish your running story and/or interview you.
If any of you would like to be featured in a "Meet Our Members" article, contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com. We'd be more than happy to publish your running story and/or interview you.
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"Meet Our Members" is where we get to know a little more about our fellow Striders -- who they are, why they run, and why they're part of the Central Maine Striders.
In this edition of "Meet Our Members", Amy Stabins agreed to answer our questions over email. Amy is 51 years old, joined the Striders about 3 years ago because she'd like to connect with other runners, prefers trail running over road running, and would love it if we'd have more group runs targeting slower runners [Editor's note: We're working on it].
In this edition of "Meet Our Members", Amy Stabins agreed to answer our questions over email. Amy is 51 years old, joined the Striders about 3 years ago because she'd like to connect with other runners, prefers trail running over road running, and would love it if we'd have more group runs targeting slower runners [Editor's note: We're working on it].
Amy running at the Pineland Farms Trail Running Festival
Here's more of what Amy had to say:
Why and when did you start running? I started running in the summer of 2010. I had been a road cyclist, but was starting to feel unsafe on our crumbling rural roads. I also love hiking, but its hard to find the time to travel to the great hiking on a regular basis. I knew several people who had taken up trail running and really loved it. I had always hated running, but decided to give it a try. It could fill my need for exercise (instead of the bike) and my love of being in the woods, exploring local trails.
Why do you run (now)? I fell in love with it! I love running through the woods. Also, having one parent with demetia, and another who had type 2 diabetes and heart issues, I am particularly motivated to make healthy choices when it comes to diet and exercise.
What do you think about when you run? I listen to podcasts or audiobooks.
Why and when did you start running? I started running in the summer of 2010. I had been a road cyclist, but was starting to feel unsafe on our crumbling rural roads. I also love hiking, but its hard to find the time to travel to the great hiking on a regular basis. I knew several people who had taken up trail running and really loved it. I had always hated running, but decided to give it a try. It could fill my need for exercise (instead of the bike) and my love of being in the woods, exploring local trails.
Why do you run (now)? I fell in love with it! I love running through the woods. Also, having one parent with demetia, and another who had type 2 diabetes and heart issues, I am particularly motivated to make healthy choices when it comes to diet and exercise.
What do you think about when you run? I listen to podcasts or audiobooks.
What are your favorite running routes?
In the summer - Start at the Colby tennis courts and run through the arboretum, then through the woods up the hill, around the top and back. About 7 miles.
In the winter - The snowmobile trails through Winslow in a winter with a lot of snow, so its not too icy. Running snomo trails lets you see countryside that is otherwise inaccessible, and its so pretty in the winter.
What’s your favorite running gear? My Nathan hydration pack. As a long-time hiker the backpack doesn’t bother me, and its great for carrying a few extra things for long trail runs (gels, gloves, cleats…. Pepper spray).
In the summer - Start at the Colby tennis courts and run through the arboretum, then through the woods up the hill, around the top and back. About 7 miles.
In the winter - The snowmobile trails through Winslow in a winter with a lot of snow, so its not too icy. Running snomo trails lets you see countryside that is otherwise inaccessible, and its so pretty in the winter.
What’s your favorite running gear? My Nathan hydration pack. As a long-time hiker the backpack doesn’t bother me, and its great for carrying a few extra things for long trail runs (gels, gloves, cleats…. Pepper spray).
Tracey Cote and Amy running on some winter trails.
What’s your favorite race? I like the Pineland 25k. Also can’t beat the cost and proximity of the Quarry road 8k.
What’s your most memorable race? My very first race was in Belgrade Lakes the day after Hurricane Irene. The storm resulted in a low race turnout, and I placed first in my age group. The second woman in my age group would have taken it, but she was running with a dog that wanted to stop and sniff everything. I won a mug and a map of the Belgrade Lakes trails. A great ego boost for my first time out!
What’s your most memorable race? My very first race was in Belgrade Lakes the day after Hurricane Irene. The storm resulted in a low race turnout, and I placed first in my age group. The second woman in my age group would have taken it, but she was running with a dog that wanted to stop and sniff everything. I won a mug and a map of the Belgrade Lakes trails. A great ego boost for my first time out!
Do you have any PR’s that you’re proud of and would like to share? Not really a PR, but I’ve run the Bradbury Mountain Bruiser (12 miles) twice and managed to cut 9 minutes off the second time. Not sure how I managed that!
What are your running goals right now? I’m training for my first marathon, Sugarloaf 2020. I’m totally intimidated and anxious. Not sure how I will manage to find the time for the long training runs, and I’m not thrilled about training on roads to get used to the pounding of the pavement!
What’s the best advice you were ever given about running? Try running trails
What are your running goals right now? I’m training for my first marathon, Sugarloaf 2020. I’m totally intimidated and anxious. Not sure how I will manage to find the time for the long training runs, and I’m not thrilled about training on roads to get used to the pounding of the pavement!
What’s the best advice you were ever given about running? Try running trails
And, what advice would you give to other runners?
- When you are starting out, run as far as you can, then walk as far as you have to, then run again. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t run far at first.
- Read the running magazines with a bit of healthy skepticism. They are full of stories about people who start running late in life and discover that they are super fast and win all kinds of races.
- Try running trails. They are so much more peaceful than road running!
What do you wish the club did more of?
Maybe more group runs targeting slower runners? I’d love to do more group runs, but I’m intimidated by faster runners. A long slow run for me is not 9-10 minutes per mile… it's more like 12-13 minutes per mile.
Tell us a story, preferably about running.
I was about ten miles into the Pineland 25k race when I guy who was passing me said “Oh! Race shirt on race day!”. He and his friends were doing a scavenger hunt during the race. I had volunteered for the races on the previous day, so I’d picked up my race shirt early and was able to wear it for that day’s race. The next year I made my own scavenger hunt list, with things like ‘tie dye socks’, ‘bleeding wound’, ‘running in a dress’, ‘barefoot runner’, etc. It made a long race day a little more interesting.
- When you are starting out, run as far as you can, then walk as far as you have to, then run again. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t run far at first.
- Read the running magazines with a bit of healthy skepticism. They are full of stories about people who start running late in life and discover that they are super fast and win all kinds of races.
- Try running trails. They are so much more peaceful than road running!
What do you wish the club did more of?
Maybe more group runs targeting slower runners? I’d love to do more group runs, but I’m intimidated by faster runners. A long slow run for me is not 9-10 minutes per mile… it's more like 12-13 minutes per mile.
Tell us a story, preferably about running.
I was about ten miles into the Pineland 25k race when I guy who was passing me said “Oh! Race shirt on race day!”. He and his friends were doing a scavenger hunt during the race. I had volunteered for the races on the previous day, so I’d picked up my race shirt early and was able to wear it for that day’s race. The next year I made my own scavenger hunt list, with things like ‘tie dye socks’, ‘bleeding wound’, ‘running in a dress’, ‘barefoot runner’, etc. It made a long race day a little more interesting.
Amy in her costumes at the Hardy Girls Halloween Freaky 5k races.
And, what do you do when you’re not running? My husband and I are raising two teenagers (boy and girl). I also spend time with my mom, who has Alzheimers and lives in the Memory Care unit at Woodlands in Waterville. I’m also an avid amateur quilter.
Thanks for letting us get to know you a little better, Amy. We're glad to have you as a Central Maine Strider!
Would you like to be featured in a future "Meet Our Members" article? Contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com.
Would you like to be featured in a future "Meet Our Members" article? Contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com.
Amy at the start and then the finish of the recent Lamoine Half Marathon.
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Although she lives in Vermont now, Rebecca Roy is a proud member of the Central Maine Striders. As the daughter of Gene Roy, she was basically raised into the Strider family. Although she's been battling an injury lately, she's hoping to get back to running soon. As part of our ongoing series to get to know more about our members, we recently asked Rebecca a series of questions over email. Here's what she had to say.
Thank you so much for thinking of me for this. I am very honored and it means so much to me because I grew up with the Striders, all the old timers are family to me. I feel far away but by being a member of CMS I feel connected which means a great deal.
What do you do when you’re not running? I manage educational programs for Vermont State Parks professionally. I love Nordic skiing, camping, and trout fishing. I am also an avid deer hunter. I have also gotten into mountain biking since I've been injured. I love being in the woods no matter what I am doing.
Why are you a member of the Central Maine Striders? CMS is the best running club out there, the club played a huge important role in my childhood, and want to stay connected. It will be fun to run races in Vermont with my CMS gear!
Thank you so much for thinking of me for this. I am very honored and it means so much to me because I grew up with the Striders, all the old timers are family to me. I feel far away but by being a member of CMS I feel connected which means a great deal.
What do you do when you’re not running? I manage educational programs for Vermont State Parks professionally. I love Nordic skiing, camping, and trout fishing. I am also an avid deer hunter. I have also gotten into mountain biking since I've been injured. I love being in the woods no matter what I am doing.
Why are you a member of the Central Maine Striders? CMS is the best running club out there, the club played a huge important role in my childhood, and want to stay connected. It will be fun to run races in Vermont with my CMS gear!
How long have you been a member of the Central Maine Striders?
I feel like I was born into the club because my dad was an early member. I spent my childhood going to races with my family every weekend, and that thrilled me. I still love going to races to just watch and I love hearing people's play by play stories of their races. Almost all my childhood memories involve adventures at races with the Club. I moved to Vermont nineteen years ago and had a big gap in my membership. I joined again when my dad was honored as Strider of the Year [in 2017], and will continue to be part of the best running club out there.
Why and when did you start running? My first race was a 1k fun run at the China School in China, Maine when I was 3. I vividly remember my mom's red striped tube socks during that race. I was thrilled to race and that hooked me. Running was a huge part of my childhood and became part of my identity. I just love it. I chose my college because my dad brought my sister, Rachel, and I to an Earth Day race there when I was five. That was Unity College and I ended up running cross-country there and made All-American and we won a National small college title.
How old are you? 43, I will be 44 in April. Still a long way to the next age bracket. My fastest times (so far) were in my late 30's.
And why do you run now? Unfortunately I am injured right now, but I am getting close to running again. I got into trail running when I moved to Vermont. I love adventure runs of all kinds. My favorite is a loop on Mt Mansfield, which is a mountain in Vermont with an expansive long summit, the whole loop is just under 9 miles and features the most beautiful views of Vermont. And [in Underhill State Park], we have a super nice state park campground at the trailhead where you can relax around a campfire and sleep in a lean-to after the run adventure. Sorry, I cannot help plugging my employer. I run today to get out in the woods, to wash away the stress of life, and to feel strong. I work with other ultra runners and they all have a zen attitude that gets you hooked on going long.
I feel like I was born into the club because my dad was an early member. I spent my childhood going to races with my family every weekend, and that thrilled me. I still love going to races to just watch and I love hearing people's play by play stories of their races. Almost all my childhood memories involve adventures at races with the Club. I moved to Vermont nineteen years ago and had a big gap in my membership. I joined again when my dad was honored as Strider of the Year [in 2017], and will continue to be part of the best running club out there.
Why and when did you start running? My first race was a 1k fun run at the China School in China, Maine when I was 3. I vividly remember my mom's red striped tube socks during that race. I was thrilled to race and that hooked me. Running was a huge part of my childhood and became part of my identity. I just love it. I chose my college because my dad brought my sister, Rachel, and I to an Earth Day race there when I was five. That was Unity College and I ended up running cross-country there and made All-American and we won a National small college title.
How old are you? 43, I will be 44 in April. Still a long way to the next age bracket. My fastest times (so far) were in my late 30's.
And why do you run now? Unfortunately I am injured right now, but I am getting close to running again. I got into trail running when I moved to Vermont. I love adventure runs of all kinds. My favorite is a loop on Mt Mansfield, which is a mountain in Vermont with an expansive long summit, the whole loop is just under 9 miles and features the most beautiful views of Vermont. And [in Underhill State Park], we have a super nice state park campground at the trailhead where you can relax around a campfire and sleep in a lean-to after the run adventure. Sorry, I cannot help plugging my employer. I run today to get out in the woods, to wash away the stress of life, and to feel strong. I work with other ultra runners and they all have a zen attitude that gets you hooked on going long.
What’s your favorite running route? I have a trail loop at work that is four miles with lots of ups and downs, but my I have lots of real favorites in the woods. These are all in Vermont, I mentioned Mt Mansfield but I also have many fun loops I like to do in Groton State Forest in eastern Vermont. I live in Vermont because I like living in the mountains, I am two miles from a trailhead up Mt Cushman, which is a four mile round trip run. I used to run that weekly when I wasn't injured. My parents have a camp on Pattee Pond in Winslow [Maine], every July when I visit I run around the pond. That run is about 9 miles and 3/4 of it is road running and 1/4 is bushwacking. The last couple years I had to ride a bike around the loop instead.
What’s your favorite running gear? I love my Hoka Speed Goat shoes! I have too many pairs of running shoes. That is my addiction!
What do you think about when you run? I brainstorm ideas to solve problems I struggle with. I also love nature so I spend time watching for wildlife and identifying plants on the fly while trail running.
What are your running goals? They are lower now after micro-fracture ankle surgery, I would like to get up to ten mile adventure runs in the mountains this summer. I would love to do the Millinocket Half Marathon next December.
What’s your favorite race? Sugarloaf Marathon! I ran this when was 21 and then again when I was 41, and I ran it with my mom that second time. Absolutely magical day. My mom won her age group! Plus I grew up going to that marathon and I had family managing the Cathedral Pines Campground. We have lots of family history in that area so it is somehow magically extra special.
What’s your favorite running gear? I love my Hoka Speed Goat shoes! I have too many pairs of running shoes. That is my addiction!
What do you think about when you run? I brainstorm ideas to solve problems I struggle with. I also love nature so I spend time watching for wildlife and identifying plants on the fly while trail running.
What are your running goals? They are lower now after micro-fracture ankle surgery, I would like to get up to ten mile adventure runs in the mountains this summer. I would love to do the Millinocket Half Marathon next December.
What’s your favorite race? Sugarloaf Marathon! I ran this when was 21 and then again when I was 41, and I ran it with my mom that second time. Absolutely magical day. My mom won her age group! Plus I grew up going to that marathon and I had family managing the Cathedral Pines Campground. We have lots of family history in that area so it is somehow magically extra special.
Finishing the Sugarloaf Marathon finish with her mom, Sarah Roy, in 2017.
After the finish of the 2017 Sugarload Marathon, Rebecca and her mom celebrate her mom's age group win.
What’s your most memorable race? Finishing the Vermont 50 was a big deal to me, 50 miles is the farthest I have run. There are other adventure runs I've enjoyed that are very memorable like the Pemi Loop and Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains. I hope I can do things like that again.
What is your favorite memory as a Central Maine Strider? I have so many of these from childhood. One I clearly remember is the Kingfield 10K. That was a huge race when I was a kid, and CMS was well represented. There was always live music, chicken bbq, and lots of happy runners lounging out on the hill in the center of town enjoying the scene. We always camped out for the weekend with CMS friends and it was always a blast.
What’s the best advice you were ever given about running? Run negative splits.
What advice would you give to other runners? I learned a valuable lesson about cross-training at my age. I love running and do not really want to do anything else but it helps your body stay stronger by doing other activities. It makes you a better runner and more resilient. I will continue mountain biking and nordic skiing after I heal well enough to rip it up trail running again.
What’s your favorite running quote? "As every runner knows, running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other; it is about our lifestyle and who we are." --Joan Benoit Samuelson (I adore her!)
Thanks, Rebecca, for taking the time to let us get to know you a little more! We hope your injury heals soon and you can get back to running. We're proud to have you a Central Maine Strider and hope that you can make it back to one of our events in Maine someday. In the meantime, we're happy to have you as an active member of our Facebook group.
Would you like to be featured in a "Meet Our Members" article? Contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com.
Check out that awesome Striders singlet! Rebecca in the first race that she won, the Gasping Gobbler 10K in Augusta on Thanksgiving Day (exact year unkownn, bur around 1997).
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We'd like to welcome one of our newest members to the club. Rebecca Tracy is a 65-year-old runner living in Raymond, who started running about 13 years ago for health reasons and has since ran many races.
"I began running shortly after having surgery for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). in 2007. Prior to that, I had poor balance and sometimes fell. Once I got “back on my feet” I started running 5ks 10ks and everything in between. I’ve run 3 half marathons but probably won’t do any more. 13.1 takes too much out of me. However, this year, I will be part of a 4 person relay team at the Maine Marathon. I’m very active in the Southern Maine Running Community and recently joined the 65+ Run Club. For the last 8 years or so, I’ve run 45-55 races a year, summer and winter. I’m not fast but I finish...and as the photo shows, I like bright colors. I’ve been known to end up dead last and still win my age group. Getting old has its benefits."
She says that her favorite race is the Longfellow Frostbite 2.5k, because "just when you're getting tired, it's over". However, her most memorable race was her first Beach to Beacon 10k, since the neurologist who diagnosed her NPH was on the sidelines cheering her on.
And her advice to other runners is simply, "Enjoy the run!"
Thanks, Rebecca! Good luck at your next race, and we hope to see you at a future Central Maine Striders event!
If you would like to be featured in a future "Meet Our Members" article, please contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com. We'd love to hear from you!
"I began running shortly after having surgery for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH). in 2007. Prior to that, I had poor balance and sometimes fell. Once I got “back on my feet” I started running 5ks 10ks and everything in between. I’ve run 3 half marathons but probably won’t do any more. 13.1 takes too much out of me. However, this year, I will be part of a 4 person relay team at the Maine Marathon. I’m very active in the Southern Maine Running Community and recently joined the 65+ Run Club. For the last 8 years or so, I’ve run 45-55 races a year, summer and winter. I’m not fast but I finish...and as the photo shows, I like bright colors. I’ve been known to end up dead last and still win my age group. Getting old has its benefits."
She says that her favorite race is the Longfellow Frostbite 2.5k, because "just when you're getting tired, it's over". However, her most memorable race was her first Beach to Beacon 10k, since the neurologist who diagnosed her NPH was on the sidelines cheering her on.
And her advice to other runners is simply, "Enjoy the run!"
Thanks, Rebecca! Good luck at your next race, and we hope to see you at a future Central Maine Striders event!
If you would like to be featured in a future "Meet Our Members" article, please contact us at run@centralmainestriders.com. We'd love to hear from you!
Rebecca after finishing the Lake Auburn Half Marathon
Rebecca making good use of her Striders beanie and gloves in the Longfellow Frostbite 2.5k. (Photo by Maine Running Photos)
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Kick off summer running with some fun trail racing, food, and a book signing! On Tuesday, June 12, come out for the Quarry Road Summer Race Series, but stick around for a club social and a book signing with Strider and ultrarunner Mike Brooks.
Tuesday, June 12, is the first race of the Quarry Road summer trail-running series in Waterville. After the kids fun run at 5:30 p.m. and the 3K at 6 p.m., we'll have a casual social with food and drinks to share. The club will provide some sandwich makings and drinks. Bring your favorite post-race potluck (a main or side dish, an appetizer, snack, or dessert) to share if you're able.
Plus, Mike Brooks, our 2016 Strider of the Year, will be on hand with copies of his new book Badwater and Beyond: A Thousand Races, Places & Faces. Through his incredible running efforts, Mike has raised more than $60,000 for children's nonprofits, with proceeds of this book going to support Special Olympics.
Bring a copy for him to sign or get yours there.
Racers, runners, walkers, spectators, friends—all are welcome!
We hope you'll join us on Tuesday, June 12, at Quarry Road Trails in Waterville.
Rain Date is Tuesday, June 19, if the race is postponed due to weather.
Facebook event for updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/199937780728839/
Quarry Road Facebook page for series updates:
https://www.facebook.com/quarryroadraces/
Tuesday, June 12, is the first race of the Quarry Road summer trail-running series in Waterville. After the kids fun run at 5:30 p.m. and the 3K at 6 p.m., we'll have a casual social with food and drinks to share. The club will provide some sandwich makings and drinks. Bring your favorite post-race potluck (a main or side dish, an appetizer, snack, or dessert) to share if you're able.
Plus, Mike Brooks, our 2016 Strider of the Year, will be on hand with copies of his new book Badwater and Beyond: A Thousand Races, Places & Faces. Through his incredible running efforts, Mike has raised more than $60,000 for children's nonprofits, with proceeds of this book going to support Special Olympics.
Bring a copy for him to sign or get yours there.
Racers, runners, walkers, spectators, friends—all are welcome!
We hope you'll join us on Tuesday, June 12, at Quarry Road Trails in Waterville.
Rain Date is Tuesday, June 19, if the race is postponed due to weather.
Facebook event for updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/199937780728839/
Quarry Road Facebook page for series updates:
https://www.facebook.com/quarryroadraces/