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VOL 2 | ISSUE 2 | APRIL - JUNE 2016
WWW.BUFFALOTREK.COM
Maze Runner: Seeing Buffalo One Mile at a Time WESTERN NEW YORK’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND FITNESS GUIDE
Buffalo Trek Celebrates One Year Anniversary We present to you our April 2016 edition. Buffalo Trek is celebrating our first year of print publication. It is our sincere hope that this is the first of many years where we will be able to share stories of outdoor adventure here in WNY with you, our valued readers. Buffalo Trek first debuted with the launch of our website back in October of 2014. To that end, we have strived to provide our readers and online visitors with the most comprehensive calendar of events related to running, biking, paddling, hiking, multi-sport, winter sports and fitness. To all our advertisers, we extend our special gratitude for making our publication a reality. In the span of a year we have doubled our circulation with plans to reach 20,000 copies by the end of the year. Buffalo Trek can now be found in over 100 locations and growing throughout WNY. Lastly, we have also begun preliminary planning for our first outdoor expo. The event is slated to feature speakers and seminars focusing on the latest in running, biking, hiking, paddling, multisport, winter sports and fitness right here in WNY. Please stay tuned for all this and much more for the remainder of 2016. Thanks for Your Continued Support!
Attn. Advertisers - The ad submission deadline for the June edition of Buffalo Trek is Friday, June 3rd at 5:00 PM. Thank you.
P. O. Box 1765 Buffalo, NY 14226 (716) 508-7350 Info@BuffaloTrek.com www.BuffaloTrek.com Facebook.com/BuffaloTrek Twitter.com/BuffaloTrek Buffalo Trek is published six times a year. No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher.
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FEATURE
Seeing Buffalo - One Mile at a Time By: Jim Cielencki Local runner Jim Cielencki is currently training for the Buffalo Marathon by running each street within the city limits. In doing so, Jim will log approximately 700 miles along the streets of Buffalo. So how does one go about running every street in the city of Buffalo? First off, you have to be naive and think it’s possible; especially if you want to complete the feat in the span of five months. That was the challenge I presented to myself last December. I was always intrigued by the notion of visiting every street in Buffalo. Doing it by bicycle or even by car would be a worthy endeavor, but by doing it on foot, it would take on a whole new dimension. My initial plan was to run all 700 miles of city streets throughout the 2016 calendar year. Soon after, I upped the stakes and decided to do it all in the five months leading up to the May 29th running of the Buffalo Marathon. I even went so far as to plot the final 26.2 miles of my quest along the marathon route itself. This unique challenge became a reality by the fact that I could utilize some newer technology and began using
a Strava Heatmap to log my miles. For those of you who are unaware, a Strava Heatmap will show a runner everywhere they have traveled on a map when used in tandem with a GPS watch. If you are planning a run but aren’t sure where to go, a Strava’s Global Heatmap is one of the growing number of tools that can help both runners and bikers in this regard. You simply run with your GPS device and when done, upload it to Strava and your Heatmap updates with your accomplishment. Each run fills in a new section of the map or makes a route that you may have previously travelled a brighter shade of blue. With this new technology in hand, I began my journey on January 1st. Now, a few months into my quest, the question I hear most often deals with safety. People inquire, “Aren’t you worried about running down dangerous streets?” My answer is always “of course”. Safety is a big concern, which is why I generally make it a habit to run early in the morning and on colder days. But to be honest, the vast majority of people I have encountered thus far have been so friendly that I don’t feel as concerned as I did when I first began my journey.
The best way I’ve discovered to ease any issues is by simply being friendly and saying hello to everyone I pass by. That method works 95% of the time, even when large dogs come running out of the industrial garages along Clinton Street to bark at me. My motivation for this odyssey beyond my love to run comes from my passion for taking photos and capturing Buffalo at its best, worst and most inspiring. Some days when my run legs are sore and the miles seem challenging, the thought of finding that perfect spot to take that first photo makes things that much easier. I’m finding the quality of my runs is often in direct proportion to how many good photos I can take. Buffalo is such an interesting place, especially when you go looking for it. Running so many streets has been a great experience thus far because you can explore the city at a comfortable pace. Plus, you can actually absorb all the nuances and details of this amazing city we all call home. Next time you’re out for a run take the opportunity to look around a bit more. I guarantee you will say to yourself, “how did I miss that, I run by there all the time?”
HEALTH REPORT
More People Undergoing Surgery and Taking Opiates to Treat Back Pain By Univera Health More upstate New Yorkers with back pain are undergoing surgery and taking prescription medication such as opiate painkillers even though noninvasive treatments such as simple exercises and over-the-counter drugs usually work, according to a new Univera Healthcare report. “We need to change our thinking when it comes to back pain,� said Richard Vienne, D.O., Univera Healthcare vice president and chief medical officer. “If patients receive the wrong care at the wrong time, it could actually lead to worse outcomes.� In their lifetimes, more than 80 percent of upstate New York adults will experience low back pain, nearly twothirds will experience neck pain, and some will endure chronic suffering. According to the Univera Healthcare
report, Spine care in upstate New York: Ä‘ĆŤ *ĆŤÄ‚Ä€Ä ÄƒÄŒĆŤÄ‡Ä‚Ä‡ÄŒÄ€Ä€Ä€ĆŤ1,/0 0!ĆŤ !3ĆŤ +.'ĆŤ adults ages 18 and older received back and/or neck pain care that added nearly $1 billion to total, direct health care costs in the region. About 36 percent of that amount was spent on surgery, 32.2 percent was spent on diagnostic services and physician visits, and 32.9 percent was spent on non-surgical interventions. Ä‘ĆŤ 1.#!.%!/ĆŤ"+.ĆŤ0$!ĆŤ0.! 0)!*0ĆŤ+"ĆŤ 'ĆŤ pain among upstate New York adults saw a 10 percent rise in utilization from 2010 to 2013. Ä‘ĆŤ $!.!ĆŤ 3 /ĆŤ *! .(5ĆŤ ĆŤ Ä Ä…ĆŤ ,!. !*0ĆŤ increase in spine patients who were prescribed a medication within the first six weeks of diagnosis from 2010 to 2013. Ä‘ĆŤ *ĆŤÄ‚Ä€Ä ÄƒÄŒĆŤ ()+/0ĆŤ$ ("ĆŤ+"ĆŤ, 0%!*0/ĆŤ0.! 0! ĆŤ for spine pain received a prescription for medication to treat the condition
within the first six weeks of diagnosis. More than half of patients who were prescribed medications received a prescription for an opiate. Choosing Wisely, an initiative of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation, collected care recommendations from physicianled medical specialty societies for the purpose of improving the quality of care and encouraging physicianpatient conversations about services that may be unnecessary and may cause harm. Recommendations related to spine pain include the following: Ä‘ĆŤ $!ĆŤ )!.% *ĆŤ !)5ĆŤ +"ĆŤ )%(5ĆŤ Physicians advises spine pain patients to initially avoid imaging, due to the risks associated with radiation, the likelihood that additional and unnecessary tests and procedures without improved outcomes will follow, and also the high cost. Ä‘ĆŤ $!ĆŤ +.0$ĆŤ )!.% *ĆŤ ,%*!ĆŤ + %!05ĆŤ does not recommend magnetic resonance imaging in the first six weeks of care for patients with nonspecific acute low back pain, nor does it recommend bed rest for more than 48 hours when treating low back pain. Ä‘ĆŤ $!ĆŤ )!.% *ĆŤ !)5ĆŤ +"ĆŤ Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation recommends that health care providers only prescribe opiates for acute disabling low back pain after an evaluation and when other alternatives have been tried. Prescribing opiates early for acute disabling low back pain is associated with longer disability, higher surgical rates and a greater risk of later opioid use. “The number of opioid related deaths in Erie County is growing rapidly. The Erie County Department of Health estimates that the number of opioid related overdose deaths will likely more than double in 2015 compared to 2014,â€? said Dr. Gale Burstein, Erie County Department of Health Commissioner. “Legitimate prescription opioid use is associated with an increased risk of long-term opioid use and possibly misuse. Clinicians should incorporate
the addictive risk of opioid prescribing into prescribing decisions and patient counseling,� said Burstein. “The concern from a public health point of view is that the backlash from over prescribing of opiates ends up limiting prescriptions being provided to patients who generally need these medications,� said Daniel J. Stapleton, Public Health Director of Niagara County. “That results in extending the severe pain those patients are experiencing. It also contributes to patients obtaining other forms of illegal and dangerous drugs to relieve their pain symptoms, when they can’t receive opiate prescriptions.� Recommendations for patients with low back pain: If you have low back pain, the research Univera Healthcare compiled in its report advises staying active, limiting bed rest, using pillows between or beneath the knees when you sleep, applying heat for pain management, taking over-the-counter medications when needed, consulting your primary care provider or alternative nonsurgical treatments provider (such as physical therapy and chiropractic care) if needed and remaining relaxed to avoid worsening pain. April 2016
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Yoga by Kathy Zawadzki Kathy Zawadzki, certified Yoga Instructor, has been teaching Yoga for over twenty years to a vast audience. Kathy currently teaches classes in the Seneca/Mill Building on Seneca Road in West Seneca. Her mission is to remove the common misconception that yoga is only for sport enthusiasts and to educate all individuals on the benefits of Yoga. “Yoga is for folks who want to improve flexibility, balance, reduce stress, and introduce the overall wellbeing of your body, mind and spirit” said Kathy. Kathy currently teaches Hatha Yoga. It is the most common form of Yoga in the Western Hemisphere, and is often referred to as the foundation for all yoga. Hatha Yoga incorporates many aspects including movement, relaxation, meditation, and breath training. Once you master the techniques of Hatha, it makes the transition to other forms of yoga easier. It wasn’t until after Kathy’s first son was born when she started practicing yoga through watching Lilias Folan on channel 17 in the 1970’s. “I used yoga as a way to improve my body after pregnancy…it slowly faded away until after my second son, when I did the same thing”. Some years had past and it wasn’t until the 1980’s when she became serious with yoga while working as a substance abuse counselor. “We used to have a summer day where everyone would go for a state of the union address for the company. We invited Rolf Sovik from the Himalayan Institute who did a brief set of stretches and relaxation to help us learn skills to release stress and tension.” What impressed Kathy the most was that the 50 or so people participating were on a cement floor with only a blanket; and they all fell asleep snoring. She thought to herself “If someone can do this on a cement floor while everyone is stressed out, this is for me”. Kathy enrolled in the Himalayan Institute where Rolf was both her teacher and the head of the institute at that time. “He asked if I ever thought about teaching and eventually he Page 4
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convinced me, so I enrolled in the program and attended training in Honesdale, PA and Buffalo, NY”. She obtained her teaching certification and taught voluntarily for a few years at the Himalayan Institute of Buffalo. Then in 1992, Kathy started teaching on her own at various locations around WNY communities and has been teaching ever since. In 2003, Kathy suffered from a Trans Ischemic Attack and her future with
teaching yoga became uncertain. Luckily, after plenty of rehab, she was able to get back into her passion. “I had to make a decision. Do I go back to my job that caused my stroke? Or do I stay on a path to do what I love?”. She decided to follow her dream, quit her job, and has been teaching yoga full-time ever since. “I have never been happier and healthier since making this decision. The stroke really solidified me in what I wanted to do”.
When it comes to her students, Kathy offers a variety of class levels. There is a special class geared towards individuals who have disabilities that prevent them from being able to get on the floor. Beginner classes are for people who are new to yoga or who haven’t practiced yoga in a very long time. Intermediate classes accommodate people who have experience and simply wish to go through the notion with minimal amount of explanation. There is also a meditation class that meets regularly and several workshops are offered from time to time which have included subjects like Laughter Yoga, Yoga Nidra (Yoga Sleep), and yoga for back problems. In the near future, Kathy plans on introducing an Ai Chi class. Ai Chi, which is similar to Ti Chi, is typically conducted in the water but can also be practiced on land. Ai Chi was originally developed by the Japanese Olympic Swim team during the 90’s to help improve balance, strength, and stamina. What’s makes Yoga by Kathy Z unique from other yoga studios is the flexible schedule style and small class size. “There is no start date or end date. My yoga classes are open to anyone at any time. You can jump in whenever you want to. There are many people who choose to take classes that work for their schedule and they may alternate week to week.” Classes are typically 10-13 students which makes it an intimate experience. “It discourages competition and encourages everyone to help each other out.” When new students attend class for the first time, other students will take the initiative to to lend a helping hand. The average age group of students is typically 45-50, but there are also more and more college students starting to attend. Some students are runners and utilize yoga for flexibility. Although most students are female, there appears to be a rise in the number of male students getting involved with yoga. “Men typically do a lot of working out at the gym where their bodies gain muscle. Yoga compliments the gym by adding flexibility to strength”. Kathy
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Yoga by Kathy Zawadski Continued
stresses that yoga is for everyone and she even has several students in their 80’s!
and you do not need to dress fancy. There are so many benefits not only for the old, but for the young.”
Kathy explained that we sometimes push our bodies so far that they shut down and we can become sick emotionally and physically. However, when we become aware of our bodies, we can take things slowly and more gradually and introduce it to new things. It is also very important that you have a good instructor and never be afraid to ask questions, such as “Where did you train? What Kind of yoga do you teach? How many years have you been teaching?”
Classes are offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday and run for about an hour. You can start off by practicing once a week and then gradually progress over time.
“A lot of health professionals are encouraging individuals to do Yoga. Don’t be afraid to try yoga. It’s not all about wrapping yourself up in a pretzel
Several benefits that yoga can provide: đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ
Back Pain and Arthritis Relief Reduce Depression/Anxiety Weight Loss Relieve Stress Improve Balance Increase Memory and Concentration
For more information, please visit her website at www.YogaByKathyZ.com
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WATER SPORTS
Tis the Season for Safety on the Water By: Andrea Vaillancourt-Alder The sun is shining, the kayak is on the car and the destination is set. Before any paddling activity, planning is a key component. Have you checked the weather, shared your paddle plans with someone who isn’t going on the adventure and packed the essentials? The essentials can save your life. Do you have a buoyancy aid or life jacket; will you wear the correct clothing, (i.e. clothes that can tolerate immersion)? The sun may be out and feel warm as we sit in our boats, however, should we end up in the water due to a rogue wave, Jet Ski wake or mis-planted paddle blade, the conditions can change rapidly leading to hypothermia. Even experienced paddlers run into difficulty when least expected. Know your limits. If you are on a paddle and start to feel out of your skill range, head back and allow your paddling partners to accompany you. Exhaustion on the water can lead to difficult situations and the lack of ability to get back into your boat, even if you have practiced self-rescue a thousand times. Paddle with at least two friends, preferably five so that if help is needed, two can paddle back to get help and two can stay with the injured paddler. Why is safety so important? Kayaking is a risk sport and anything can happen on the water. In my paddling career, I have rescued sailboats, rowers and other kayakers. Hypothermia was a factor due to lack of correct clothing. Having experienced hypothermia first
hand, I can attest to the seriousness of being prepared on the water. Why not take a course to get you started? The New York State Parks offer smart start paddling as part of their education programing. You can also take a safety and rescue or a skills development course with local American Canoe Association instructors. Paddlesports North America also has instructors who are able to offer these courses. If you are new to the sport and want to try kayaking, ensure that the company you choose to paddle with employs qualified instructors and licensed guides. Your safety is paramount! When going out on the water for instruction or a guided tour, ask to see proof, i.e. the licensed guide card and instructor qualification card. Being on the water with someone who is not only qualified but knows how to rescue you and will follow safe practice is a great way to start your paddling career. Before venturing onto the water, learn the ‘rules of the road’. The American Canoe Association has great information to help you on your way. Practice your skills with your kayaking friends and never paddle alone. Always wear your pfd/life jacket and let someone know where you are going. Always carry a spare paddle, have a repair kit, marine radio, cell phone
in water proof case, high energy snacks and fluids, a whistle, chart and compass, pump, signal, spare clothing in a dry-bag, be able to swim with your boat, depending on your ability and paddle close to shore and always check the weather before heading out. Learn how to use a spray deck/spray skirt if you are planning on paddling on the lake or ocean and even for trips on rivers. The deck helps keep your boat dry. When paddling in waves or rough conditions without a deck, water can enter your cockpit and cause you to loose balance as the water quickly fills up your boat. Taking a lesson from a qualified instructor will insure that you know what to do in any situation while wearing a deck or not. The spray deck can be a trap hazard if the toggle at the front of it is not out of the boat. Always check that it’s on top so that you can grab it as you lean and pull the toggle towards the bow to exit your boat. If it is trapped, you can release the deck from the side of the cockpit and pull it up to free yourself. As it’s the start of the season and many of us are rusty from lack of paddling over the winter, practicing rescues and working on improving your
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paddling skills will help you avoid the ‘catastrophe curve’. This is something that can happen very quickly on the water with or without paddling partners. An incident may happen leading to the curve, i.e. someone comes out of his or her boat, other paddlers go to assist and others end up in the water. A University of Buffalo student died from hypothermia while kayaking in New Zealand. Sadly and closer to home, a solo paddler got into difficulties. This is not uncommon for the sport and can happen to anyone at any time, be prepared! As a paddler you have a duty of care to others on the water. As your safety, rescue and personal paddling skills develop, so do your responsibilities within the group. Those in the group with the highest level of training and experience can be held accountable in the event of an incident. When paddling in groups, it’s important that the group works together so that any unknown can be met and dealt with swiftly and safely. Know your group and ensure everyone’s paddling skills are suited for the activity. When working in groups, instructors follow strict ratios, one instructor to
WATER SPORTS
Tis the Season for Safety on the Water Continued five paddlers (sometimes the number of paddlers is smaller due to the conditions) - this is to ensure safe group management. Paddlers are no more than two boat lengths away so that a rescue can be dealt with quickly. If you are with a large group, identify who the competent paddlers are and know your limits! While out enjoying the waterway, always consider your impact as this can have safety implications with wildlife. There are reports of bear encounters in the Georgian Bay islands and on the Allegheny River corridor. Black bears have learned that kayakers carry food. Dry bags have been removed from boats and bears wanting to share the food have approached paddlers refueling. Be bear wise and don’t leave food unattended. Never throw food at a bear in an effort to distract the animal as this practice has helped the
bears to associate paddlers with food, use a bear vault and/or bear hang on your adventures. The sun is out, the kayak and gear are packed, the paddle plan has been shared, marine radio and cell phone are charged up, long term forecast is clear and conditions are perfect. With everything planned and packed, the paddle is a go! Paddle safe, paddle smart and enjoy the season! About the Author Andrea Vaillancourt-Alder, ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor, British Canoeing Level 2 BCU coach, NY State licensed guide, Wilderness First Aid, Leave No Trace Master Educator. The digital version of this article on www. buffalotrek.com includes links to the many resources referenced previously.
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
Superhero Race 5k
Adirondack Kayak Adventure Series 2016
Friday, June 10th 2016 @ 6:00PM Delaware Park - Buffalo, NY
PADDLING
RUNNING
Come out with your friends, family, co-workers and/or fellow superheroes on Friday, June 10th, to take part in the only superhero themed race and walk in Buffalo. From 6:00pm until 10:00pm at Delaware Park’s Ring Road and St. George’s Church grounds.
September 15th - September 19th Adirondack Mountains, NY
Previously known as the Road 2 Recovery Superhero 5k Race & Wellness Walk, the Buffalo Superhero Race and Wellness Walk is an annual event that highlights the strength and diversity of the mental health community of Western New York, in addition to offering a premier racing venue for the larger running community. We simplified the event name but the cause remains the same!
This is an ‘all-inclusive’ event with training, kayaks, paddles, buoyancy aids/life jackets, tent camping and meals provided. Participants are responsible for their own travel and kayak clothing, snacks, drinks/water and utensils/dish for meals. Participants are responsible for their own travel. There will be opportunities through this program to gain kayak awards, wilderness first aid qualifications and participate in leave no trace workshops.
FITNESS
Tuesday, June 14th at 6
What is it? Buffalo Paddle Bike Run Training is a 6 week program designed to help you get physically and mentally prepared for the Buffalo Paddle Bike Run 2016.
What’s Included? The program includes both at home workouts and weekly group trainings. Required gear(kayaks, headlamps) for the weekly group trainings is provided. Snacks and refreshments during the weekly group training are also included. What Does it Cost? $299 How Do I Sign Up? Limited spots available. Signup by calling 716-775-7669 or emailing Pat@SurvivaloftheGear.com Survival of the Gear | (716) 775-7669 2463 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst, NY 14228
This event is brought to you by Adventures In Fitness and Seabirds International.
5th Annual Holiday Valley Mudslide RUNNING
When is it? The program starts Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 6:00pm at Survival of the Gear, 2463 Niagara Falls Blvd, Amherst NY 14228.
Want to improve your kayak skills? Always wanted to kayak camp but never knew how? Interested in learning in the outdoor environment? We’ll be working from a base camp in the Fish Creek Ponds and upper Saranac Lake area where we will explore the local waters as we learn new skills whilst enjoying the flora and fauna surrounding us.
Buffalo Paddle Bike Run 6-Week Training Program
Where is it? The weekly workouts are held at Survival of the Gear and will utilize Elliott Creek Park, Amherst Bike Path and University of Buffalo.
Pre-trip kayak courses- June 26th, July 12th, August 28th, September 10th
Saturday, June 18th Holiday Valley Resort, NY
The fifth annual Holiday Valley Mudslide is a mud run that’s FUN. Yes, you’ll get muddy, yes there is running, yes there are 11 obstacles but NO fire, NO barbed wire and NO electric shocks! The 3.5 mile course starts at the top of the mountain at Spruce Lake (we’ll even give you a ride up on a chairlift) and runs along the ridgeline then down the hill. The 5.4 mile course adds a bit of uphill running, just in case you’re feeling especially tough.
SOUND LIKE YOUR KIND OF FUN?
WIN TWO PASSES to Holiday Valley’s 3.5/5.4 Mile Obstacle Trail Runs
Simply go to www.buffalotrek.com & Sign up for our Monthly E-Newsletter for your chance to win. Entries valid until June 1, 2016 at 11:59pm.
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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Buffalo Trek’s Newest Partner: Buffalo Icon Apparel Outdoor enthusiast in WNY know of the many great activities and places to visit for adventure. Now, a new Buffalo based benefit company, Aeon Apparel, Inc ., is capturing the outdoor adventure sports of WNY in casual apparel brands! It released its first apparel brand called Buffalo Icon Apparel. The Brand is a unique take on the typical Buffalo shirt designs, and uses icons to form the shape of a buffalo. There are many designs ranging from sports, fitness, buffalo pride, heritage, and outdoor recreation.
Aeon Apparel will be the next brand to be released by the company, and is an acronym for Adventure, Erie, Ontario, Niagara as well as Adventure, Outdoor, Earth, Nature. The brand will consist of environmentally friendly, organic casual apparel that will return a portion of its profits to environmental causes. The name Aeon means eternal and represents the company’s foundation of outdoor adventure, being an eternal pursuit for enthusiasts, and their connection with and protection of nature!
For you outdoor lovers, Buffalo Icon Apparel has paddle, bike, run, hike, and camp buffalo designs. Our apparel lists the great places for those activities in WNY under each design, and has many styles of T-shirts and Hoodies. They will be releasing ski and boarding designs in the fall, and more designs in the future.
Jeff Morreale the founder of Aeon Apparel says “our apparel designs reflect and celebrate the revitalization in the Buffalo WNY region and everything that is fun to do here. We hope to contribute to local charities, environmental and human rights causes, and bring balance and happiness to everyone in our
community” Buffalo Icon Apparel will be at many festivals and events in the WNY region during the spring and summer, and you can follow them for events on Facebook and Twitter. You can also find them online at www.buffaloiconapparel.com as well as in local stores.
Use Code BUFFTREK to receive 20% off of your next order!
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EVENT CALENDAR: APRIL - JUNE
APRIL Mathletes Cindy Frank Memorial 5K Run/Walk Saturday April 23rd 8:45 am West Seneca, NY Running 4th Annual Mathletes Cindy Frank Memorial Run and 1K Walk Saturday April 23rd 8:45 am West Seneca, NY Running UB Run For Smiles Saturday April 23rd 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Tortoise and the Hair Saturday April 23rd 10:00 am Orchard Park, NY Running Envirun Saturday April 23rd 10:30 am Niagara Falls, NY Running 20th Annual BuffaloRunners 6-Hour Distance Classic! Sunday April 24th 8:00 am Williamsville, NY Running Saps Race Sunday April 24th 9:00 am Franklinville, NY Running Wine Xpress – Niagara Frontier Bicycle Club Sunday April 24th 11:00 am Pendleton, NY Biking Houses of the Holy – Niagara Frontier Bicycle Club Sunday April 24th 11:00 am Elma, NY Biking Catalyst Fitness Race For A Cause Friday April 29th 6:30 pm West Seneca, NY Running Daemen Splash & Dash Saturday April 30th 9:00 am Amherst, NY Biking, Running, Fitness Allendale Columbia School 5K Saturday April 30th 9:00 am Rochester, NY Running Page 10
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Buffalo Undy 5000 Saturday April 30th 9:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Forestville Elementary Running Club Friday May 6th 6:30 pm Forestville, NY Running
Bully Free 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run Friday May 13th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
The 716 Mile Saturday April 30th 11:00 am Amherst, NY Running
Greater Buffalo Track Club Grand Island Half-Marathon Saturday May 7th 9:00 am Grand Island, NY Running
Hospice Gran Fondo Saturday May 14th 8:00 am Olcott, NY Biking
The Nth Degree – Niagara Frontier Bicycle Ckub Saturday April 30th 11:00 am East Aurora, NY Biking Bubaloos (old Billy Bob’s) – Niagara Frontier Bicycling Club Saturday April 30th 11:00 am Clarence, NY Biking Finger Lakes Gravel Challenge Saturday April 30th 11:00 am Springwater, NY Biking Chaffee Sardinia Muckdogs YBO 5K Saturday April 30th 3:00 pm Chaffee, NY Running
MAY Mountain Goat Run Sunday May 1st 9:00 am Syracuse, NY Running Run for Babies Sunday May 1st 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Cinco De Mayo 2016 Sunday May 1st 12:00 pm Lockport, NY Running Running Water 5K/1 Mile Walk Sunday May 1st 1:30 pm Clarence, NY Running NCCC Alumni Association’s 5K Run / Walk Friday May 6th 6:30 pm Sanborn, NY Running Town of Tonawanda 5K Friday May 6th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
DeSales Race For Fitness Saturday May 7th 9:00 am Lockport, NY Running Allegany Adventure Run Saturday May 7th 9:30 am Salamanca, NY Running Happy Half Saturday May 7th 10:00 am Ellicottville, NY Running Nancy Price Memorial 5K Saturday May 7th 10:00 am Youngstown, NY Running Ossian Giant Gravel Grinder Saturday May 7th 11:00 am Swain, NY Biking The Cherry Blossom Challenge Event #1 of The Get Started and Get Out There Series Saturday May 7th 11:00 am Buffalo, NY Hiking Fly By Night Du Saturday May 7th 6:00 pm Watkins Glen, NY Biking, Fitness, Running 10th Annual Elephant Run Sunday May 8th 9:30 am Buffalo, NY Running Knox Farm 5 Mile Trail Run Event #1 of the Erie County Parks Trail Run Series Thursday May 12th 6:30 pm East Aurora, NY Hiking Crouse 5K Challenge Friday May 13th 6:00 pm Gowanda, NY Running
ADP Helmet Heroes Run Saturday May 14th 9:00 am Honeoye Falls, NY Running Jennifer Jones Memorial Saturday May 14th 10:00 am Lancaster, NY Running BEAT the TRAIN down MAIN Sunday May 15th 8:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Miles For Smiles 5K Run Sunday May 15th 2:00 pm Westfield, NY Running Larkinville Challenge 2016 Race 1 Thursday May 19th 6:00 pm Buffalo, NY Biking Brian Dugan Memorial Scholarship 5K Road Race Thursday May 19th 6:30 pm Tonowanda, NY Running Williamsville East 5K Friday May 20th 7:00 pm Amherst, NY Running LockRock Armed Forces Day 5K Saturday May 21st 9:00 am Lockport, NY Running Allegany Arc 5K Community Run/Walk Saturday May 21st 9:30 am Wellsville, NY Running 2nd Annual Lewiston St. Peter’s 5K Saturday May 21st 10:00 am Lewiston, NY Running Chris Griswold Memorial 5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Run Saturday May 21st 10:30 am Lancaster, NY Running
EVENT CALENDAR: APRIL - JUNE Saints Peter & Paul Charge of the Knights 5K Race Saturday May 21st 6:00 pm Williamsville, NY Running Genesee Valley Park Criterium Sunday May 22nd 12:00 am Rochester, NY Biking ECC Kats Sprint Triathlon Sunday May 22nd 7:30 am Buffalo, NY Multi-Sport Grinder Trail Run Sunday May 22nd 10:00 am Glenwood, NY Fitness, Running Niagara Edge 5K Sunday May 22nd 10:00 am Niagara Falls, NY Running Dirt Devil Trail Series Tuesday May 24th 6:30 pm Glenwood, NY Running
ATC Triathlon Series Saturday June 4th 8:00 am Cooperstown, NY Multi-Sport
Trooper Brinkerhoff 5K/10K Saturday June 18th 10:00 am Boston, NY Running
Independent Health Kids Run Saturday June 4th 9:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Raccoon Rally XC Mountain Bike Race Sunday June 19th 10:00 am Salamanca, NY Biking
Strassburg Sock Keuka Lake Triathlon Sunday June 5th 7:30 am Keuka Park, NY Multi-Sport
Ride For Roswell June 24 - June 25 Buffalo, NY Biking
Dirt Devil Trail Series Tuesday June 7th 6:30 pm Glenwood, NY Running
Dirt Devil Trail Series Tuesday June 28th 6:30 pm Glenwood, NY Running
Superhero Race & Wellness Walk Friday June 10th 6:00 pm Buffalo, NY Fitness, Running SteelMan Triathlon Saturday June 11th 8:00 am Darien Center, NY Multi-Sport
Larkinville Challenge 2016 Race 2 Thursday May 26th 6:00 pm Buffalo, NY Biking 2nd Annual Sunset Bay Paddle Festival Saturday May 28th 12:00 am Irving, NY Paddle Event
Tri-Oswego 2016 Saturday June 11th 8:00 am Oswego, NY Multi-Sport
Chestnut Ridge Learn & Practice Event #2 of The Get Started and Get Out There Series Saturday May 28th 10:00 am Orchard Park, NY Hiking
Emery Park Orienteering Event #3 of The Get Started and Get Out There Series Saturday June 11th 11:00 am South Wales, NY Hiking
Buffalo Marathon Sunday May 29th 6:30 am Buffalo, NY Running
Buffalo Paddle Bike Run Program Tuesday June 14th 6:00 pm Amherst, NY Biking, Paddle, Running
JUNE Alden’s 5K Race For Scholarships 2016 Friday June 3rd 6:30 pm Alden, NY Running Western NY Bike Festival June 4 - June 5 Victor, NY Biking Event
Buffalo Paddle Bike Run Sunday July 31st Buffalo, NY For a complete list of outdoor and fitness events, please visit
YMCA SPRINT TRIATHLON AT GREEN LAKES Saturday June 11th 8:00 am Fayetteville, NY Multi-Sport
SUMMER SNEAK PEEK
www.BuffaloTrek.com.
Adirondack Kayak Adventure Series September 15th - 19th, 2016 Adirondack Mountains, NY
Training
Dirt Devil Trail Series Tuesday June 14th 6:30 pm Glenwood, NY Running Raccoon Rally Weekend 2016 June 18 - June 19 Salamanca, NY Biking
Cycling
Festival
Events are subject to change without prior notice. Buffalo Trek is not responsible for any errors or typographical errors in event listings. Please refer to official event websites for complete details.
April 2016
Buffalo Trek
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HIKING & OUTDOORS
Local Adventurer Tackles Summits and Waterways of boats, The first being a solo canoe in 2001, followed by a sea kayak in 2006 and finally in a 27 ft. long canoe as part of an eight man team in 2012. In addition to many short trips, Van Hise has completed two seven day solo canoe adventures - one in the Adirondacks, and the other in Ontario’s Algonquin Park. He has also accomplished a 34 mile overnight kayak trip across Lake Ontario, from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Toronto. Locally, Bob can usually be found kayaking on the Niagara River, with the waters around Strawberry Island and the Lower Niagara among his favorites.
Mount Marcy is New York State’s highest point and boasts an elevation of 5,343 feet. At the top of the world sits Mt. Everest with an elevation almost six times higher at over 29,000 feet. We share these points of comparison as a way to introduce Tonawanda resident and longtime outdoor enthusiast, Bob Van Hise. Bob admits that he isn’t likely to ever take on Mount Everest, but his passion for hiking has led him to reach every summit of the Adirondack’s 46 High Peaks not once, but twice. In doing so, Van Hise has logged over 368,000 feet of elevation gain and a few hundred trail miles. For readers unfamiliar with the Adirondack High Peaks, this is the name given to the 46 mountains in the northeast region of the Adirondack Park that reach an elevation of 4,000 feet or more; most of which are located south of Lake Placid and adjacent to Keene Valley. Cascade Mountain was the first peak Van Hise scaled, but it was not until over a year later, in 2001, during his second High Peaks ascent that his passion to climb all 46 peaks took hold. An avid photographer, Van Hise was captivated by the views atop Mount Page 12
Buffalo Trek April 2016
Haystack. A mere three years later, Van Hise conquered all 46 High Peaks and became an official “Adirondack 46er”. By 2009, Van Hise had climbed all 46 mountains a second time. These hikes were completed during the winter months and thus Van Hise could now claim status as an “ADK Winter 46er”. These are hikers who have climbed each of the 46 peaks during the winter months between December 21st and March 21st. When asked why, Van Hise simply replied, “The peaks are fun to climb and at the same time, physically challenging.” Van Hise who was diagnosed with arthritis at a young age discovered that as he became more active in pursuing his outdoor passions, the effects of his arthritis significantly diminished. In addition to his many hiking accomplishments, Van Hise is an avid paddler. He has successfully completed the Adirondack 90 Miler race three times and will soon begin training for his fourth. The 90 Miler, officially known as the Adirondack Canoe Classic, is a three-day, 90-mile canoe race from Old Forge to Saranac Lake. Each of Van Hise’s three trips to date have been accomplished in different types
Van Hise traces his love for the outdoors dating back to his childhood. He recalls fond memories of vacationing in the Piseco Lake area of the Adirondacks with his parents as a boy. During his early teen years, Van Hise was a Boy Scout and did a lot of camping. Although he grew up near the banks of the Ellicott Creek and purchased his first boat at the age of 20, his love for the outdoors did not begin in earnest until years later. In his mid-30’s, a work acquaintance invited Van Hise to Algonquin Park
where he was reintroduced to canoeing and these twice a year trips renewed his paddling interest. By his late 30’s Van Hise was making trips with friends and sometimes by himself to go canoe camping. Van Hise also shares his knowledge with other hikers and paddlers by giving back considerable time to lend his outdoor expertise to others. In addition to serving as a long time member on the board of the local Niagara Frontier Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK), he also recently completed a six year term as a board member of the club at the state level. His resume also boasts of being a NYS Licensed Outdoor Guide, as well as an American Canoe Association certified instructor in Canoe and Kayak touring. For readers interested in learning more about paddling, Van Hise will be teaming up with Andrea VaillancourtAlder of Seabirds International on May 10th at the ADK’s general monthly meeting at the Snyder Amherst Community Church, 77 Washington Highway. Please visit http://adk-nfc.org for additional information.
RUNNING
Family Run Race Organization (RMS) Making Great Strides In the short four year span since launching Race Management Solutions (RMS), Paul Beatty and his family have become major players in the local race scene. When 2016 draws to a close, RMS will have played an integral part in coordinating some 50 races throughout WNY. RMS caters to both first time and experienced race organizers and events of all sizes. Paul and his family are fully committed to the success of each and every event and it shows in their attention to details. This year alone they have contracted to provide services for 14 additional events, and their many services include what can be best described as a soup to nuts approach to race organization. RMS offers: đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ đƫ
ITSYourRace Online Registration Jaguar Chip Timing Start & Finish Line Arches & Chutes Free Custom Mobile Apps Professional PA & Sound System Pictures & Video at Timing points Integration with Social Media Website Design & Free Event Pages Race Promotion Course Design & Certification Runner Recognition at Finish Line
Runners who participate in an RMS produced event will experience an array of amenities not typically associated with most runs. From a timing standpoint, they can be assured that RMS will provide fast and accurate results. Athletes are tracked using a disposable RFID chip located on the back of each runner’s bib, and times are recorded to the nearest 1/1000th of a second. Instead of timing mats that can pose a trip hazard, RMS uses overhead antennas that activate and receive multiple signals from the chip as runners approach and cross the finish line. At most events, racers are also treated to a professional PA & sound system featuring high-energy music. RMS strives to make the end of each race, a “marathon quality” finish. To that aim, runners are often called out by name when nearing the finish line using Jaguar’s Announcer software. Interactive television monitors, scrolling results, custom mobile apps, and results kiosks are also used on a regular basis so that runners can quickly and easily track their results upon completion of the race.
Brand New Fundraising Platform T-shirts & Runner Rewards Custom Medals & Trophies Touch Screen Race Results Kiosk Scrolling Results TV Monitor Custom Finish Line Banners Road Cones & Barriers Tents, Tables & Chairs Stage Rentals & Sound Engineering Mile Markers w/ Sponsor Options Water Station Supplies & Management
Most of the race directors who work with RMS choose to use the ITSYourRace online registration platform. Beatty said, “Using this platform allows us to provide a number of unique services that further enhance the overall runner experience.” He went on to say “Not only are results streamed live to the platform during the race, our runners can download the ITSYourRace mobile app, print custom finisher certificates, and share Snapshot finish line photos on social media at no additional charge!”
Personalized service and a commitment to quality seem to be their key to success. From initial course mapping and certification to online registration, Jaguar chip timing, and a wide range of finish line services, RMS has the entire race day experience covered. “If our company does not provide a race related product or service directly, we can certainly connect you to one of our business partners who can,” shared Beatty.
While the cutting edge technology has been a major factor in the growth of the organization, Beatty takes great pride in the fact that RMS is a family run business. “Whether a race has a handful of participants or 10,000 runners, we want to make it stand apart and to that end our family takes great pride in our work. On race day, my son Paul and I typically arrive four hours before the official start time to set up and test our equipment. Once
we are setup and ready to go, my wife Joanne will arrive with at least one or two other family members to assist the race director with packet pickup and race day registration. My 79 year old father even comes out to lend a hand from time to time!” Before launching RMS, the Beatty family had been coordinating several popular local events including the Jack Beatty Hospice Memorial Regatta, Hospice Dash 5K Run/Walk and the Mighty Niagara Half Marathon. It was at the Road Race Manager’s Conference in 2012 where Beatty was first introduced to the Jaguar Timing System peaking his burgeoning interest in race timing. Shortly after returning home, he and his wife, Joanne decided to start their new business venture. For his part in giving back to the WNY community, Beatty has been named “Citizen of the Year” by the Town of Porter. He also received the 2012 Niagara Hospice “Helping Hands” Award for his fundraising efforts. Paul and Joanne, with the help of family and friends, have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for a variety of local charities and non-profits. To learn more about RMS, or to view their complete 2016 race calendar, please visit www.racemanagementsolutions. com.
2016’s First Place Male Runner
April 2016
Buffalo Trek
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PHOTOS
Submit your photo to be featured in our next edition!
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Buffalo Trek
April 2016
OUR PARTNERS ADK NFC
Hiking Club
www.adk-nfc.org
Adventure in Fitness
Join an outdoor adventure
www.adventureinfitnessinc.com
Buffalo Nordic Ski Club www.buffalonordic.org
Buffalo Icon Apparel
www.buffaloiconapparel.com
Campus Wheel Works
YMCA
Peek‘n Peak
Independent Health
Eclipse MultiSport
Pro Scuba
www.campuswheelworks.com
www.independenthealth.com
Daemen College Athletics www.daemenwildcats.com
CrossFit Amherst
www.crossfitamherst.com
Sports PT
BikeorBar
www.sptny.com
www.bikeorbar.com
Seabirds International
Indoor Cycling & Barre Studio
Kayak and Canoe Instruction
Dr. Brian Cox Physical Therapist & Chiropractor
www.drbriancox.com
Buffalo Triathlon Club
www.buffalotriathlonclub.com
www.seabirds.co
Eastern Mountain Sports www.ems.com
Univera Healthcare
www.univerahealthcare.com
www.ymcabuffaloniagara.com
Buffalo Niagara Triathlon & Race Series
www.eclipsemultisport.com
Fleet Feet Buffalo Running footwear, apparel, accessories
www.buffalofleetfeet.com
Gear for Adventure Your Outdoor Adventure Experts
www.gerforadventure.com
www.pknpk.com
wwwpro-scuba.net
Runners Roost
www.therunnersroost.com
Saddle Indoor Cycling www.saddlecycling.com
Survival of the Gear Buy & Sell Quality Used Outdoor Gear
www.survivalofthegear.com
Holiday Valley
www.holidayvalley.com
Impact Sports Performance
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BUFFALO TREK CHALLENGE
BE THE ADVENTURE Buffalo Trek focuses on seven primary activities including: Running, Biking, Paddling, Hiking, Multi-sport, Fitness and Winter Sports. To successfully complete the Buffalo Trek Challenge and receive a complimentary Buffalo Trek tech shirt we simply ask you to submit a brief synopsis describing your participation in one of the of these endeavors along with an image. Select submissions will be featured on our website or in our newspaper. Submit your stories and photos at www.buffalotrek.com/buffalo-trek-challenge
April 2016
Buffalo Trek
Page 15
Hiking
Biking
Paddling
Camping
Disc Golf
Snow Sports
Buy & Sell Quality Outdoor Gear
www.survivalofthegear.com 2463 Niagara Falls Blvd., Amherst, NY 14228
716-775-7669