- 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
This month we're running way back to 1983, the semi-historic year when the Interval was first "computerized". Check it out!
Either the archives are missing the January and February 1983 issues, or no Interval was made in those months. There was an invitation for the Striders annual banquet that was sent out in January, but that seems to barely count as an issue of The Interval (the greatest central Maine-based running newsletter over the last 40 years or so).
However, the March issue featured a major Striders announcment -- the club entered the COMPUTER AGE!
However, the March issue featured a major Striders announcment -- the club entered the COMPUTER AGE!
Back in 1983, the Striders' annual banquet seemed like a pretty impressive affair. 63 people attended! The newly elected board of officers included Dean Rasmussen, Gene Roy, and Geoff Hill (all of whom are still active members to this day). Current member Sarah Roy won an award for Most Improved Strider. The 1983 club even had a New Balance representative speak at the banquet! And they ended the banquet with a showing of a movie about the 1981 Hawaii IronMan Triathlon (remember, this was long before Netflix or even DVDs existed). Sounds like it was a pretty exciting night.
The January Thaw Road Race was postponed that year due to bad weather. Geez... that never happens in Maine in January. Oh wait, (...checks January Thaw archives...) it happened this year and last year.
I usually don't include old finance information in these flashbacks, but the balance of $96.53 from February 2, 1983 has to be the lowest that I have ever seen the club's balance get, and I'm guessing that all of the current and former club Treasurers would agree.
The April 1983 newsletter included coverage of that year's Killarney's 10k, which saw a new course records set for both the men and the women. Current member Rick Stuart ran sub-35 minutes.
It turns out that Fred Judkins wasn't using just any computer for the new Striders member database. He was using an all-caps APPLE computer. Fancy stuff. [As a side note, I think I got my first computer, an Apple IIe, around that same time]
It seems that the city of Auburn tried to pass an anti-joggers and skiers law. No word on how a law against joggers and skiers would affect runners. Also, how often were people skiing down the side of the road an actual problem? I know this is Maine and all, but..... really?
In the May 1983 Interval, the newsletter editor announced that they were going to start profiling one member each month, selected at random. [The 2020 newsletter editor is thinking about implementing this "random" method to choosing members to profile in the "Meet Our Members" section.]
They were also looking for articles from members [Another note from the 2020 editor: Time may have moved forward by 37 years, but we're still looking for article from members. If anyone would like to help out by writing an article for our newsletter and webpage, send an email to run@centralmainestriders.com.]
And, they were looking for someone with a copier that could copy onto both sides of paper. [The 2020 editor would like to let you know that we are no longer searching for two-sided copying capabilities.]
Gene Roy was looking for Striders to join him for a Mount Washington road race team. This was the year that Ron Paquette and Dean Rasmussen succumbed to Gene's pleas to get a Striders team for this uphill race. Apparently, they've been addicted to that hill since that year, considering that they've ran it every year from then until now. As you all know, the race has been cancelled this year due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Let's hope these two fine gentlemen get a chance to continue their streak next year.
It's hard to believe that a couple Striders in 1983 ran the London Marathon, but that's exactly what Susan Adams and Linda Snow did. This was only the third year that the London Marathon was run. Unfortunately, these two women are no longer members of our club, but I'd love to hear where they are now and if they're still running.
In other "international" news, there were some Striders preparing for the Boston Marathon. Rick Stuart was gunning for a sub-2:30 marathon and Geoff Hill was aiming to be a bandit.
In other "international" news, there were some Striders preparing for the Boston Marathon. Rick Stuart was gunning for a sub-2:30 marathon and Geoff Hill was aiming to be a bandit.
Rick Stuart primed his way to the Boston Marathon by capturing 7th place in the Readfield Boston Primer 15-miler. That must have been quite the field if Rick only got 7th.
The Striders fielded a stellar team for the Great Downeast Maine Half Marathon back in 1983. The team featured long-time Strider all-stars Gene Roy, Geoff Hill, Ron Paquette, Sarah Roy, and Donnjean Pohlman. Not to be outdone, Rick Stuart finished 5th in the marathon that day with a nice sub-3-hour time. Wait... I thought Rick was preparing for Boston. [Editor's Note: He was.]
In the "New Members" section of the May 1983 newsletter, none other than current member Gust Stringos was introduced. Gust did run the Maine Coast Marathon that year, and still enjoys beekeeping and gardening.
By June of 1983, it seems that Fred Judkins was getting into his APPLE computer. Based on the amazing font seen below, it looks like he started using the computer for typing newsletters, besides just keeping a member database. Also, it seems like this issue marked the point in time where the club found a way to print/copy on both sides of a piece of paper.
Oh, and you gotta love the very dated title "Data Processor".
Oh, and you gotta love the very dated title "Data Processor".
That same issue featured a profile on longtime member Jim Moore. 37 years since this article was written and Jim is still probably one of the most consistent runners in CMS. Jim, I think you've made your goal of continuing running through the age of 65 and we're extremely thankful to have been with you the whole way! Also, has anyone else out there commuted to work in Augusta by running the 21 miles? Now, that's dedication!
It looks like Rick Stuart didn't make his sub-2:30 goal at Boston, but 2:37 ain't too shabby!
Speaking of not shabby, Gene Roy ran a 22:13 at a 4-mile race in Portland.
While Gene was running his 4 miles in Portland, it looks like a large chunk of the Striders membership was running a 10k in China. Current members Geoff Hill, Jim Moore, and Donnajean Pohlman were listed in the results.
As the club's data processing and computerizing skills advanced, they started printing newsletters on colored paper. The colored paper trend in the newsletter continued until 1993 or so.
The June 1983 issue also included a list of all the current members, along with their addresses and phone numbers. We cut off the contact info here, but are showing you the members' names. We're very thankful for all the names that are on this 1983 list AND still on our 2020 member list.
The June 1983 issue also included a list of all the current members, along with their addresses and phone numbers. We cut off the contact info here, but are showing you the members' names. We're very thankful for all the names that are on this 1983 list AND still on our 2020 member list.
Besides switching around the color of paper that the newsletters were printed on, they also seemed to go through several iterations of how the return address was printed on them. Perhaps even more surprising is how many different post offices across the state were used to mail these out. Newsletters were postmarked in Waterville, Augusta, Portland, and Bangor that year.
There were some familiar names amongst two back-to-back Saturday 10k's in May of 1983.
At the Emden 10k, Rick Stuart came in second with a nice 5:36 pace. Dean Rasmussen, Donnajean Pohlman, Ron Paquette, and Gene Roy also placed in the top 10. No offense to Gene, but were there only 10 runners in this 10k? The Striders held 8 of the top 10 places, and there was 14 minutes between first and tenth place.
At the Emden 10k, Rick Stuart came in second with a nice 5:36 pace. Dean Rasmussen, Donnajean Pohlman, Ron Paquette, and Gene Roy also placed in the top 10. No offense to Gene, but were there only 10 runners in this 10k? The Striders held 8 of the top 10 places, and there was 14 minutes between first and tenth place.
The next weekend, there was a bigger turnout of not just Striders, but of runners period. Our current club clerk, Alton Stevens, finished with an impressive 33:44 time. Gene Roy avenged his last(?) place finish from the previous week by cutting nearly 13 minutes off his time. We'll give Gene the benefit of the doubt and assume the Emden 10k was just a training run for the Boothbay 10k. It's too bad, though, that his place dropped from 10th to 31st. Numbers, places, and running can be strange like that sometimes. Geoff Hill, Jim Moore, and Sarah Roy were also part of the large CMS contingent at the race.
Susan Adams finished the London Marathon in a time of 4:19. No word on how Linda Snow fared. She's also not included on the list of members from the June Interval. Hmmmm... conspiracy theorists could probably come up with a great explanation for this.
Gust Stringos, introduced to the club back in the May 1983 newsletter and still a club member, finished the Maine Coast Marathon in 3:04:55. Jerry Allanach, another longtime Strider and current Chicago-area resident, came in at 3:18:06.
In the August issue that year, it was announced that the Striders would be hosting the 1st ever Sugarloaf Marathon. Of course, along with that honor came responsibility, so they were asking for volunteers.
Results from the first year of "The One-Hill Streak" for Dean Rasmussen and Ron Paquette were also in that August issue. Gene Roy and some other guys were also on the team, but had streaks that ended much earlier than 37 years.
So, you may be asking yourself, "who is this Dean guy?" Well, here's how he was profiled in that August 1983 Interval. Dean, thanks for continuing to be a Strider for all of these years!
Rick Stuart ran a high-altitude 10k out in New Mexico that year. Unfortunately, the Interval and/or the computer skills of the club weren't advanced enough to include pictures in the newsletter, so we'll never know whether the mentioned picture was a "real" road runner or if it was Rick.
In the President's Comments of the October 1983 Interval, Dean Rasmussen thanked all of the members that volunteered for the first Sugarloaf Marathon. We all know that volunteers are probably the most critical component of a successful race.
That issue also included race results for several CMS members, including Donnajean Pohlman's sub-4-hour marathon in San Francisco.
Gust Stringos seems to have had a good showing at the Twilight 5-miler with pace just under 6-minutes-per-mile. Ron Paquette and Donnajean Pohlman were also amongst the large group of Striders that ran the race in Skowhegan.
Those same three current Striders ran another race in Skowhegan that month and were joined by Sarah Roy and several other members.
The only current Strider to be listed in the results for that first Sugarloaf Marathon was Dean Rasmussen. He grabbed 14th place overall with a nice sub-3-hour finish. However, the date in these results was listed as 1982, even though the first Sugarloaf Marathon was held in 1983. Hmmmm..... do we have another conspiracy theory here, or was it just an innocent typo on an old APPLE computer?
A month later in Kingsfield, a giant group of Striders showed up for the Kingfield 10k. Alton Stevens, Geoff Hill, Dean Rasmussen, Jim Moore, Donnajean Pohlman, Ron Paquette, Sarah Roy, and Gene Roy were all there. Ron and Donnajean beat Gene and Sarah by about 20 seconds for the title of "top Striders couple".
The Kingfield and Sugarloaf area continued to be a popular area for Striders to race in that fall, with another big group running the Sugarloaf Uphill race. Gene Roy grabbed 6th place overall with a finish time of an even 32 minutes. Usual suspects Geoff Hill, Dean Rasmussen, Ron Paquette, and Jim Moore also finished the uphill race.
In October 1983, Geoff Hill ran the Casco Bay Marathon with a nice time of 3:12:32.
And in November 1983, CMS member Chris Bovie tied a course record at the Veterans Day 5k with a time of 16:04! Geoff Hill came in 6th with a time of 18-minutes flat. Gene Roy and Jim Moore opted for the half marathon that day and finished with times of 1:24:40 and 1:33:17, respectively.
- 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
So far "Running Backwards" has taken us to 1981, 1982, and 1999. Continuing our sprint forward in time, we're heading to 2011 in this issue. Don't worry, sooner or later, we're bound to stumble back into the 80's.
In 2011, the Interval newsletter was being cranked out on a monthly basis by Linda Benn, who had taken over the newsletter duties back in the middle of 1994 and kept at it until the end of 2014. During 2011, the newsletter always had the masthead you see above and the clipart logo you see to the left. Each month the front page also included a "front page" article written by a rotating cast of novelists.... oops, I meant "runners". These articles would start on the first page and then be continued on the second page (and sometimes even onto the third page too). As interesting as all of them are, we unfortunately don't have the space to reprint all of them here. So, we're going to skip Craig Lewis's "The Health Benefits of Running" front page piece that was published in the January edition and move right into Jerry Allanach's article on the "2500th Anniversary of Phidppedies" (which wikipedia tells me is actually spelled "Pheidippides" or "Philippides" or "Φιλιππίδης" if you prefer Greek) and his experience running the Athens Classic Marathon. We edited it a little bit for length. The original filled most of the first three pages of the newsletter.
Greek legend has it that in 490 BC, the Athenians overcame enormous odds to defeat the Persians on the plains of the village of Marathon. As most of you know, the legend claims that the Greek soldier Phedeppides ran back to Athens and upon announcing that they had won a great victory fell dead. I have been blessed with the opportunity to celebrate the 2500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon by running the Athens Classic Marathon this year.
While I learned a few things about the facts versus myths, in this article I'll share with you my experience of running a marathon that began at the site of the ancient battle field and ended on the track of the 1896 Olympic Stadium in Athens.
The journey actually began almost a year ago when Marathon Tours sent me a promotional email about a group tour that included this historic run. Knowing that age, wear, and tear are taking its toll on my body, I figured if I only have a few marathons
While I learned a few things about the facts versus myths, in this article I'll share with you my experience of running a marathon that began at the site of the ancient battle field and ended on the track of the 1896 Olympic Stadium in Athens.
The journey actually began almost a year ago when Marathon Tours sent me a promotional email about a group tour that included this historic run. Knowing that age, wear, and tear are taking its toll on my body, I figured if I only have a few marathons
left, this one was just too unique to pass up.
When we got there, we discovered that there is actually a track that runners can warm up on. While I don't usually warm up anymore for marathons, I couldn't resist jogging a lap in the track and field stadium in Marathon, Greece. Numerous people dressed in 490 BC warrior attire.
I think this was my 4th marathon measured only in kilometers and I have to confess I like it. When runners get tired in the 2nd half (not that it happens [to] you), I think the majority of us really look for the mile markers to prove to ourselves that we are still making progress toward that finish line. I've found that even if I have to walk some, those kilometer markers come a lot quicker than mile markers, even though there are more of them. (26.2 miles = 42.2 kilometers) Based on my training runs, the inevitable slide with age, and the fact that it's a fairly hilly course, I had estimated that I would likely be between 4:05
When we got there, we discovered that there is actually a track that runners can warm up on. While I don't usually warm up anymore for marathons, I couldn't resist jogging a lap in the track and field stadium in Marathon, Greece. Numerous people dressed in 490 BC warrior attire.
I think this was my 4th marathon measured only in kilometers and I have to confess I like it. When runners get tired in the 2nd half (not that it happens [to] you), I think the majority of us really look for the mile markers to prove to ourselves that we are still making progress toward that finish line. I've found that even if I have to walk some, those kilometer markers come a lot quicker than mile markers, even though there are more of them. (26.2 miles = 42.2 kilometers) Based on my training runs, the inevitable slide with age, and the fact that it's a fairly hilly course, I had estimated that I would likely be between 4:05
and 4:15 depending on how much the hills slowed me.
One thing that was a first for me after 30 years of marathons, the water stops passed out bottled water, generally with the caps still on. I would guess they were the equivalent of our 12 or 16 ounce bottles. I drank about half each time before tossing the bottle. Another thing that I had not seen before was runners pulling over to the side and having the backs of their legs sprayed by race volunteers with something. The only thing I could think of was sun screen, but I found out after the race it's something that will almost instantly help loosen stiff and cramping muscles.
From about the 8k to about the 18k it was gently rolling and I was consistently under the 5:35 [per kilometer goal pace]. Then from there to about 31.5 k it was pretty much uphill. It was warm (about 70) but not hot and the hills were long but not steep as the net gain over those 13 kilometers was about 700 feet. My training and
One thing that was a first for me after 30 years of marathons, the water stops passed out bottled water, generally with the caps still on. I would guess they were the equivalent of our 12 or 16 ounce bottles. I drank about half each time before tossing the bottle. Another thing that I had not seen before was runners pulling over to the side and having the backs of their legs sprayed by race volunteers with something. The only thing I could think of was sun screen, but I found out after the race it's something that will almost instantly help loosen stiff and cramping muscles.
From about the 8k to about the 18k it was gently rolling and I was consistently under the 5:35 [per kilometer goal pace]. Then from there to about 31.5 k it was pretty much uphill. It was warm (about 70) but not hot and the hills were long but not steep as the net gain over those 13 kilometers was about 700 feet. My training and
experience paid off as I was able to keep the splits between 5:25 and 5:50. As we got closer to Athens, the cheering crowds got progressively larger and louder.
As expected, the hills had taken a toll but the good news was that the last 10k was mostly downhill. Of course downhill hurts sore muscles more but it sure helps with pace. Only the 42nd and final full kilometer was over 6 minutes. Entering that 1896 Olympic Stadium will always be one of the highlights of my long running career. It literally gave me goose bumps and I yelled as I crossed the finish line "Rejoice, we are victorious!" I significantly exceeded my expectations with a finishing time of 3:56:42, an unexpected Boston qualifier. I did try to check my official time but the website was "all Greek to me." It wasn't until Thursday that I was told by another runner that there was a little British flag in the upper right corner that converted it to English.
As expected, the hills had taken a toll but the good news was that the last 10k was mostly downhill. Of course downhill hurts sore muscles more but it sure helps with pace. Only the 42nd and final full kilometer was over 6 minutes. Entering that 1896 Olympic Stadium will always be one of the highlights of my long running career. It literally gave me goose bumps and I yelled as I crossed the finish line "Rejoice, we are victorious!" I significantly exceeded my expectations with a finishing time of 3:56:42, an unexpected Boston qualifier. I did try to check my official time but the website was "all Greek to me." It wasn't until Thursday that I was told by another runner that there was a little British flag in the upper right corner that converted it to English.
The front page of 2011 newsletters also always had a section called "Editor's News" at the bottom of the page, where Linda Benn would share short bits, club announcements, requests for more people to write front page articles, thanks to those who had submitted front page articles, and would often include a holiday greeting in months where holidays were coming up. Here are some excerpts from throughout the year:
Gene Roy had the front page honors for May 2011 and waxed philosophically about whether or not running is a sport. You may notice that Page 2 starts out by saying that it was continued from Page 2. No, the Striders did not succeed in bending the fabric of newsletter space-time. Surprisingly, this ultramarathon-lasting copy-and-paste error persisted throughout every issue of The Interval from July 2008 until December 2011.
I don't personally know Mike Brooks, but I do know that he raced a lot, traveled a lot, and wrote three front pages of The Interval in 2011 (and is still a CMS member today). Although all of his front page articles are interesting race reports from various corners of the US, it was his article on the back-to-back races he ran in Hawaii that was the most exciting to me. Here are some of the highlights of that article:
The Hilo to Volcano 50k is mostly a relay race and this year had 28 solo runners. If you are running solo, you can start when you want and tell the officials at the finish line your time.
Outside a bar, there were a bunch of drunks getting ready to fight, one had a knife, this quickened my pace for a short distance.
I thought the race started on Coconut Island, but it actually starts in the parking lot for the island on the other side of the bridge to the island. My friends hollered and screamed out my name, but I never heard them. They waited a few minutes, then started without me. I waited for them about ten minutes, then started. Outside a bar, there were a bunch of drunks getting ready to fight, one had a knife, this quickened my pace for a short distance. Catching my friends a few miles later made me feel a little better knowing I would have some company in the race. There are no aid stations on the course, so Denise drove the course supplying us with what
we needed.
It stayed dark until 6:30, the clouds kept the temperature in the 60's and at times there was a light drizzle. Once it got light I noticed Walt [Mike's brother], a very experienced ultrarunner, had new shoes. They were on sale for $40, big mistake. As we continued towards the Volcano, Walt's feet started to blister badly. The last 4 miles is when the sun came out, it was in the 80's and Walt was doing a painful run/walk routine.
After crossing the finish line, we told the race director our times and thanked him for putting on a race for 30 bucks which included a long sleeve tech shirt, finisher's medal, and lei.
It was then a shower and off to the airport for our flight back to Honolulu for a connecting flight to the island of Maui.
[The next morning,] I walked from the hotel to where the bus would pick us up and drop us off at the early 4:30am start. We got there late and the race had already started.
Once sunrise arrived, we were treated to
It stayed dark until 6:30, the clouds kept the temperature in the 60's and at times there was a light drizzle. Once it got light I noticed Walt [Mike's brother], a very experienced ultrarunner, had new shoes. They were on sale for $40, big mistake. As we continued towards the Volcano, Walt's feet started to blister badly. The last 4 miles is when the sun came out, it was in the 80's and Walt was doing a painful run/walk routine.
After crossing the finish line, we told the race director our times and thanked him for putting on a race for 30 bucks which included a long sleeve tech shirt, finisher's medal, and lei.
It was then a shower and off to the airport for our flight back to Honolulu for a connecting flight to the island of Maui.
[The next morning,] I walked from the hotel to where the bus would pick us up and drop us off at the early 4:30am start. We got there late and the race had already started.
Once sunrise arrived, we were treated to
Walt wore sandals in this race because his feet were so blistered. I bet he does not wear new shoes in a 50k again.
ocean views for 20 miles and saw whales in the distance several times.
Walt wore sandals in this race because his feet were so blistered. I bet he does not wear new shoes in a 50k again.
It was now time to relax. The next three days were spent lounging around the pool, snorkeling, and whale watching.
In conclusion, let me say that I think most runners would like the Maui marathon. It is a very scenic course, lots of aid stations and just a few steep hills. On the downside, it will probably be hot and all the races are expensive [there's also a half marathon and 5k]. The Hilo to Volcano 50k is not scenic, has 4000' of elevation gain, no aid stations or spectators. On the upside, it's only 30 bucks, you can start whenever you want and it is one of the easier ultras in the Hawaiian Islands.
Walt wore sandals in this race because his feet were so blistered. I bet he does not wear new shoes in a 50k again.
It was now time to relax. The next three days were spent lounging around the pool, snorkeling, and whale watching.
In conclusion, let me say that I think most runners would like the Maui marathon. It is a very scenic course, lots of aid stations and just a few steep hills. On the downside, it will probably be hot and all the races are expensive [there's also a half marathon and 5k]. The Hilo to Volcano 50k is not scenic, has 4000' of elevation gain, no aid stations or spectators. On the upside, it's only 30 bucks, you can start whenever you want and it is one of the easier ultras in the Hawaiian Islands.
In April 2011, several Striders ran in the Unity Spring 5k and in the Fly Like an Eagle 5k (which was a race held at Erskine Academy in South China).
Ron Paquette took over the front page article in June of 2011 and offered his thoughts on the cost of running.
The July edition of the newsletter featured an early version of "Running Backwards", or at least a look back at the results of the Joseph's 5k from 20 years earlier. We're not sure what top secret information got redacted here.
Gene Roy used the front page of the October 2011 Interval to tell a story about telling stories.
My Dad used to tell stories. Usually this happened while we were riding in the car or sitting around a campfire in the dark of night. There weren't many choices for my brothers and I when it came to avoiding a story we'd heard before. We could step outside the car or wander around in the dark. I'm certain that your Dad told stories too. Most of the time they weren't bad, they were just re-runs. We'd heard them all before. He would relate incidences that had taken place some years before; many of these were reports of weather, personal achievements, or his experiences. My brothers and I would look at each other and roll our eyes. To his credit, the stories he told never changed nor did they get exaggerated with age. There was of course no way to corroborate the facts.
So now I find myself telling stories to my kids. I realize I'm doing it as soon as I start and I can't stop myself! My kids listen politely and they don't stop me to say they've heard it before. When I recognize it's a told tale, I still have a hard time stopping.
If you're wondering what this has to do with running, well let me tell you a tale.... don't roll your eyeballs!
So now I find myself telling stories to my kids. I realize I'm doing it as soon as I start and I can't stop myself! My kids listen politely and they don't stop me to say they've heard it before. When I recognize it's a told tale, I still have a hard time stopping.
If you're wondering what this has to do with running, well let me tell you a tale.... don't roll your eyeballs!
This is a story about racing, then and now. "Then" happened in the early 80's, I will refer to this time as the "Golden Age of Road Racing". The "Now" is the year 2010 for which I have data for all the races that are still around.
During my competitive years, I kept all my racing results and the complete results for that race. I also kept data on weather, and type of workout for each day. I kept track of weekly, monthly, and yearly mileage. I did this for more than ten years. I have plenty of hard data to back my claims.
My point here is that racing in the 80's was more competitive than it is now. The fields in many of the races today are larger than they were then. Though many of the races from that era are gone now, many new races have taken their places.
[Gene then goes on to provide several examples of his race times from "Then" and how that same race time would earn him a better finish position in that race "Now".]
So what's different? I believe it's the approach to training. Does anyone take their pulse
During my competitive years, I kept all my racing results and the complete results for that race. I also kept data on weather, and type of workout for each day. I kept track of weekly, monthly, and yearly mileage. I did this for more than ten years. I have plenty of hard data to back my claims.
My point here is that racing in the 80's was more competitive than it is now. The fields in many of the races today are larger than they were then. Though many of the races from that era are gone now, many new races have taken their places.
[Gene then goes on to provide several examples of his race times from "Then" and how that same race time would earn him a better finish position in that race "Now".]
So what's different? I believe it's the approach to training. Does anyone take their pulse
every morning? Run 70 mile weeks? run two a days? Do two speed workouts a week? Average 2700 miles a year or own a pair of skin calipers? Can you expect great results on casual training? Or, without reading the latest research results on training? I'm saying the level of commitment to training has lowered a lot. The selection of races reflects this casual approach to training, most 10k's are gone and in their places are 5k's. Many of the longer runs are gone too and you don't see 6-10 runners running a 20 on a Saturday morning.
Many of the best races are gone now and it wouldn't be fair to compare times in different races. For now at least the 5k reigns as a popular race distance, but I must tell you that I don't have a personal best for a 5k. I never ran one in those days, they were very rare. I think the only place they were run was on a track.
Will we ever return to the days of hard nosed training and racing? Probably, everything goes in cycles. Maybe 10k's will make a comeback. Runners will look at their times and wonder what they can do to become faster. At that point, the "Then" will be now and the "Now" will be then.
Many of the best races are gone now and it wouldn't be fair to compare times in different races. For now at least the 5k reigns as a popular race distance, but I must tell you that I don't have a personal best for a 5k. I never ran one in those days, they were very rare. I think the only place they were run was on a track.
Will we ever return to the days of hard nosed training and racing? Probably, everything goes in cycles. Maybe 10k's will make a comeback. Runners will look at their times and wonder what they can do to become faster. At that point, the "Then" will be now and the "Now" will be then.
Gene, I think some runners "Now Now" (2020) would disagree with some of your claims about "Now" back then or even "Then" back then, but you're still more than welcome to tell us some stories, regardless of whether they're from "Then" or "Now" or "Now Now". We won't even mind if you've told them before. We're happy to have you as a Central Maine Strider, for both the contributions you made back "Then" and the contributions you continue to make to the club "Now Now."
In 2011, The Interval even had a random Sudoku puzzle published in it. We're sorry that we no longer have one without the solution already written into it.
The November 2011 issue of The Interval featured a front page article by Ron Paquette, which featured a nice piece about crickets that he found in Ultrarunning Magazine.
David Benn used his time to write the front page Interval article in December 2011 to cover the Champions Thanksgiving Day 10k.
Mike Brooks had been mentioned several times in this edition of Running Backwards. For those of you who don't know who he is, Ron Paquette has this great writeup about Mike in the December 2011 newsletter.
And just like that, we've made it to the end of 2011. Thanks for jogging back with us. We hope you enjoyed it!
- Published on
The Central Maine Striders are excited to announce that on October 11, 2020, they will be hosting a new 10k road race in Waterville, Maine.
More details, including information about registration, are coming soon!
Fall Classic 10k Webpage
Fall Classic 10k Facebook Event Page
More details, including information about registration, are coming soon!
Fall Classic 10k Webpage
Fall Classic 10k Facebook Event Page
- 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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Our last two editions of "Running Backwards" went to 1981 and 1982, and were huge hits with our readers. Thank you again for all the positive feedback. This month we're going to sprint forward to 1999. Pace yourself. It's a long one. And don't worry, we'll stumble back into the 80's and early 90's soon enough.
The Interval opened 1999 with an intro letter from Club President David Benn. He mentioned some info on three races that him and his wife (Club Secretary Linda Benn) ran over the previous month, went over some club administrative stuff, and had an obligatory plug for the January Thaw.
To see the full results from the 1999 January Thaw Road Race, click here.
In the February newsletter, David Benn shared that Al Sproul, a longtime Central Maine Strider, lost his battle with cancer. Several Striders attended a celebration of his life. Al was obviously a very loved and respected member of the Striders, because he's mentioned in nearly every newsletter in 1999.
Rick Stuart (who coincidentally has recently moved back to Maine) wrote a quick note giving the Striders updates on his west coast running adventures.
Welcome back, Rick!
Welcome back, Rick!
Amanda Russell wasn't listed as a member of the Striders, but in the March 1999 issue of The Interval she wrote this race report about the Boston Marathon (perhaps it was reprinted from another publication?).
Ron Paquette & Donnajean Pohlman and Gene & Sarah Roy can never be thanked enough for their contributions to the Central Maine Striders. That's just as true now as it was in 1999.
Many of the older issues of The Interval included a list of all the members. We've been thinking about doing this for current members, but in the meantime, you'll just have to settle for seeing the list of 1999 Central Maine Striders.
In April, The Interval had the results, a quick writeup, and some photos from the 20th Annual Killarney's 10k. The race director was none other than Tom McGuire. Rumor has it that he's been working hard to give some other current Striders the chance to start a new Striders 10k race.
The results included Striders regulars Jim Moore and Ron Paquette, as well as a young guy named Pat Guerette.
The results included Striders regulars Jim Moore and Ron Paquette, as well as a young guy named Pat Guerette.
Above: Tom McGuire and Ron Paquette, a couple good men.
Left: Random Strider photo from the May 1999 issue of The Interval with no caption. It looks like it could be Julie Millard, but if so, she says this photo is not from 1999.
Left: Random Strider photo from the May 1999 issue of The Interval with no caption. It looks like it could be Julie Millard, but if so, she says this photo is not from 1999.
Amongst the race results published in the May issue were those from the Unity College 5k, where the Jim Moore and the Roy family represented the Striders. I'm just going to guess that Gene was also there, but busy helping with the race timing or other volunteer task.
A few weeks later, Gene got his chance to race at the St. John Family 5k in Winslow. It looks like having Gene on his tail helped Jim Moore take 5 seconds off his Unity 5k time.
This was another photo in the May issue without a caption, so I'll just caption it: "Man in awe as to how Ron Paquette could be such a great representative of the Central Maine Striders for so many years."
In the June 1999 newsletter, Club President David Benn gave a shout out to some of the volunteers from the Joseph's 5k, including current Striders Ron Paquette, Donnajean Pohlman, Geoff Hill, Susan Brooks, and Lynda McGuire.
The Roy family made another appearance at the Rangeley 5-Mile Moose Run at the end of May. Luc Roy finished 3rd overall. And Sarah seems to have substituted Gene for Rebecca as the family member she wanted to tie.
That same weekend, current Striders Jim Moore and Ormond Irish competed in the Monmouth Apple Blossom 15k. Tom McGuire seems to have opted for the shorter Apple Bud 4.7 Miler.
At the Joseph's 5k in Fairfield, 40-year old Susan Brooks was the third fastest woman (25th overall). The only two women in front of her were teenagers. Jim Moore slowed down a bit from his previous two 5k's that year. Perhaps it was because this time around, he didn't have any members of the Roy family chasing him. And with mom Lynda volunteering along the course, Kate McGuire edged out her dad Tom by a couple seconds.
Let's just call this one "Four men, four fonts."
By August of 1999, it seemed that Club President David Benn had grown tired of writing a column on the front page every month, so the "President's Page" duties started rotating amongst former club presidents. Here's a bit of what Tom McGuire had to say in that August issue:
There was another tribute to Al Sproul in the August 1999 newsletter. Al seems to have had a pretty prolific career on the "corporate circuit". I wonder if these corporate running competitions still exist.
Some youngsters may find it hard to believe, but Strava didn't exist back in 1999. Also, DOS was a computer language that some programs were still written in. In the summer of 1999, Teresa Nightingale reached out to all RRCA clubs and offered a new computer program called RUNLOG for tracking miles. This was is an excerpt of what was published in the August 1999 Interval newsletter:
Distinguished Gentlemen:
The Striders made a great showing at the Loon Call 5k, with six current club members representing that day. Rick Stuart came in 3rd overall with an impressive 17:50 time as a 41-year old. Jim Moore edged out Tom McGuire by a few seconds. And, Donnajean Pohlman and Ron Paquette seem to have used a little teamwork to keep Gene Roy a couple seconds behind them.
Ron Paquette took the honor of filling the President's Page in the September 1999 newsletter:
Club Secretary Mardie Brown shared some news about the club's annual meeting, including plans to update the bylaws to conform to the 1999 structure of the club:
Striders masters runners Bob Strout and Rick Stuart finished one-two at the Fairfield Community Fun Fest 5k. Some kid named Pat Guerette finished third, nearly two minutes behind the 40-something-year-olds. Susan Brooks beat Julie Millard by 10 seconds to take home the women's prize.
Striders Susan Brooks, Jim Moore, and Mardie Brown were amongst the 142 runners that ran the New Balance 5k in Skowhegan in 1999.
Some random race photos from the September issue. It's unclear as to why Bob Strout is the only Strider in the first photo who gets named.
There was a photo of Gene Roy running Mount Washington to close out the September '99 Interval, and then the October '99 issue opened with his turn filling the President's Page, where he shared a good mix of wisdom, humor, and advice on winter running.
The October '99 Interval included the results from the Bar Harbor Half Marathon with some familiar names that are still active club members.
Jerry Allanach gave an update from Illinois in the October newsletter. To this day, Jerry is still a proud member of the Striders, still lives in Illinois, and still occasionally turns up at a Maine race. This past year, a few of us got to meet him at the Save Your Breath 5k in Augusta.
Although Mardie Brown was never the President of the Central Maine Striders, she still got the honor of writing the President's Page in the November 1999 issue of The Interval.
In 1999, tips for running safely included "carry coins for a phone call". Other than the fact that carrying coins won't do much for you these days (unless you use them to throw at any potential attackers), these are still good tips for running safely.
Apparently, Susan Brooks decided that her Bar Harbor Half Marathon on September 18 wasn't enough, because two weeks later she ran the Casco Bay Half Marathon in Portland. She did manage to take nearly two and a half minutes off her time, so it seems it was probably worth it.
David Benn took the reins back for the President's Page in the final Interval issue of 1999. He made a plea for a couple volunteers to take over the Killarney's 10k and Gasping Gobbler 10k. From what I can tell, 1999 was the last year that the Killarney's race was run. The Gasping Gobbler seems to have taken the year 2000 off, but then returned in 2001, only to disappear again from 2002 through 2005. In 2006, the Gasping Gobbler returned as a 5k at Cony High School in Augusta and continues to this day.
The Striders never began a road race series, even though it seems to have been being explored at the end of 1999. However, that "kid" Pat Guerette that showed up at a few races in 1999 came back to Maine and started the Quarry Road Trail Race series in 2013.
The Striders never began a road race series, even though it seems to have been being explored at the end of 1999. However, that "kid" Pat Guerette that showed up at a few races in 1999 came back to Maine and started the Quarry Road Trail Race series in 2013.
That's all for 1999! If you made it this far, thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed this edition of Running Backwards. Candidates for next month's jog into the archives include 1987, 1988, 1990, 1996, 2009, and 2013.
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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.
- Published on
by Harold Shaw
Over the past few years, I have bought far too many pairs of running shoes (about 20-25 pairs a year since 2012) - hoping or is that dreaming about the "right" shoes that will magically allow me to become the runner that I have always wanted to be.
A typical runner’s dream, isn’t it?
Unfortunately, as I have learned the expensive and hard way, there is no such thing as a pair of magical running shoes that are going to make you or I, a better runner. If you buy into that line of thinking you will spend a LOT of money searching for that magical shoe.
I have.
Besides, just like everyone else my body changes a little each year and what would have worked for me as a younger person, doesn’t work for me now. Those Asics Excalibur GT’s that I loved in the ‘80s would kill my feet now and so many other shoes that I have loved over the years would not work at all for me in the body that I have now.
This is something I think that we tend to overlook when we look at running shoes, how much our bodies do change as we get older. The reality is that it really doesn’t matter what our age is, our bodies are always changing whether we 25, 43, 62 or 75 and the type/style of running shoes we need constantly change as well.
What have I learned
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So think twice and then think again about what you are reading, watching or being told.
Over the years, I have learned that there are no magical running shoes (although some claim otherwise as the current controversy over the Nike Vapor Fly line shows) and that the best ways to improve as a runner are to focus more on:
Although I gotta admit that the wrong running shoes really do screw things up royally from time-to-time! The litany of injuries I have had over the years are a testament to bad shoe choices, training mistakes and just being stoopid.
Then you have the fun issue of when the brands update that style/model that you love and the new version is a different shoe than the one you loved. It sucks big time and happens all too often. Then we have to go out and start looking for a new running shoe all over again - it has happened to almost all of us who have been running for a while and yeah, it does suck.
The reality is that...
All runners are different, we have different likes, needs and wants from our running shoes and in today's world, most brands have a shoe that will satisfy that need.
The primary purpose of running shoes, in my opinion, is to protect our feet from the ground, tar, concrete, trail or whatever you are running on, which in turn allows us to run more safely or comfortably than without them (no I do not believe in running barefoot other than for drills - it doesn't work for most of us, especially in Maine in the Wintah).
While I believe that proper running shoes can make a difference (good or bad) for a runner, at the same time I strongly believe that I (and other runners) put too much emphasis on the importance of their running shoes and how much of a difference they actually make.
The biggest lesson I have learned over the past few years is that my running shoes are a lot less important to my running than what I am doing as a runner, but even so, I am ever hopeful that someday, I will find that running shoe that works for me and hope against hope that its updates continue to work for me.
Hmmm let me see what Running Warehouse has on sale this week. :-)
Yeah, I know I am an incorrigible running shoe geek. Hehehee
A typical runner’s dream, isn’t it?
Unfortunately, as I have learned the expensive and hard way, there is no such thing as a pair of magical running shoes that are going to make you or I, a better runner. If you buy into that line of thinking you will spend a LOT of money searching for that magical shoe.
I have.
Besides, just like everyone else my body changes a little each year and what would have worked for me as a younger person, doesn’t work for me now. Those Asics Excalibur GT’s that I loved in the ‘80s would kill my feet now and so many other shoes that I have loved over the years would not work at all for me in the body that I have now.
This is something I think that we tend to overlook when we look at running shoes, how much our bodies do change as we get older. The reality is that it really doesn’t matter what our age is, our bodies are always changing whether we 25, 43, 62 or 75 and the type/style of running shoes we need constantly change as well.
What have I learned
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So think twice and then think again about what you are reading, watching or being told.
Over the years, I have learned that there are no magical running shoes (although some claim otherwise as the current controversy over the Nike Vapor Fly line shows) and that the best ways to improve as a runner are to focus more on:
- Running consistently - the more uninjured miles run - the better, in other words, training smarter, is more important to being a better runner, than what running shoes I am wearing.
- Lose weight/eat better - getting rid of the extra 5-10-15 or more extra pounds of flubber and looking at what we eat, are far more important to running better, than how much different shoes weigh.
- Be aware of the BS factor - When it comes to running shoes, we have to wade through the ever-present marketing hype, discussions, bluster, believe it or not maybe even a few facts -- in magazines, ezines, blogs, forums and yes even on Twitter or Facebook, along with our ever-present running buddies about running shoes over the past few years. So much so that most of us runners do not really know what works versus what is hype most of the time.
- Have an open mind - we need to figure some things out for ourselves by doing the research, actually thinking about what we are seeing or doing and even be willing to go beyond our usual authors, friends, coaches, websites or brands for information related to running. It might even mean - heaven forbid, that we need to think outside of the box from time-to-time and look at brands or ideas we have not used in the past. I know that I have been surprised by what works and does not work several times.
- Don't jump on the next great bandwagon shoe or shoe style. Just because it is a certain design, style or the next best thing since whatever, it doesn't mean that it will work the same for you or that it is even the right thing for you and the way you run. The minimal, maximal, carbon plate bandwagons come to mind pretty quickly. All have led to mixed results and caused more or different injuries than have been reported or talked about.
- That all the major brands have at least one running shoe style that we can or could run in - Not really what we want to believe, after all, such and such a brand couldn’t possibly work for me. While it is true that I run better in certain styles of running shoes and I tend to stay with the brands that have those styles.
- BE COMFORTABLE - this is the most important thing, find a shoe that you run comfortably in - one that you put on and forget about. Get beyond brand marketing, the salesperson's prejudices or preconceptions, the running store's limited selection and find the pair of running shoes that feel comfortable to you when you are running.
Although I gotta admit that the wrong running shoes really do screw things up royally from time-to-time! The litany of injuries I have had over the years are a testament to bad shoe choices, training mistakes and just being stoopid.
Then you have the fun issue of when the brands update that style/model that you love and the new version is a different shoe than the one you loved. It sucks big time and happens all too often. Then we have to go out and start looking for a new running shoe all over again - it has happened to almost all of us who have been running for a while and yeah, it does suck.
The reality is that...
All runners are different, we have different likes, needs and wants from our running shoes and in today's world, most brands have a shoe that will satisfy that need.
The primary purpose of running shoes, in my opinion, is to protect our feet from the ground, tar, concrete, trail or whatever you are running on, which in turn allows us to run more safely or comfortably than without them (no I do not believe in running barefoot other than for drills - it doesn't work for most of us, especially in Maine in the Wintah).
While I believe that proper running shoes can make a difference (good or bad) for a runner, at the same time I strongly believe that I (and other runners) put too much emphasis on the importance of their running shoes and how much of a difference they actually make.
The biggest lesson I have learned over the past few years is that my running shoes are a lot less important to my running than what I am doing as a runner, but even so, I am ever hopeful that someday, I will find that running shoe that works for me and hope against hope that its updates continue to work for me.
Hmmm let me see what Running Warehouse has on sale this week. :-)
Yeah, I know I am an incorrigible running shoe geek. Hehehee
Harold Shaw lives in Sidney, ME and retired from the U.S. Coast Guard a long time ago. He has been a Striders member since 2012 and a running shoe geek for way too many years before that. When he isn't injured he tries to run 30-40 miles a week and someday will finish another marathon if he can ever stay healthy long enough. Maybe he will even find that magic shoe that will help him achieve that goal.