Running
Biking
Fitness
Multi-sport
Paddling
Winter Sports
Hiking
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by using the promo code:
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VOL 1 | ISSUE 3 | AUGUST - OCTOBER 2015
WWW.BUFFALOTREK.COM
EPIC TRAILS AWAIT 305 BUFFALO STREET, HAMBURG, NY 14075
(716) 646-4327 GEARFORADVENTURE.COM
Personal Training · Adventure Trips Kayak & Canoe Lessons · X-Cross Country Skiing Snowshoeing · Red Cross Certification
at Holiday Valley
Kayak Instruction • Guided Tours
716.392.2708
www.seabirds.co
WESTERN NEW YORK’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND FITNESS GUIDE
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.
Page 2
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
“Mountain biking at our resort goes back to the early 1990s,” shared Holiday Valley Marketing Director, Jane Eshbaugh. What began as a simple trail grew into a fivemile race loop and has further expanded into an elaborate network of over 35 miles of trails on adjoining state land. In addition to the crew at Holiday Valley, this elaborate trail system is maintained by IMBA’s local chapter, the Western New York Mountain Biking Association (WNYMBA - www.wnymba.org). “Our affiliation with WNYMBA and their dedication to keeping our trails groomed has been the catalyst for the growing popularity of biking here at Holiday Valley,” added Eshbaugh. The typical demographic of a WNY mountain biker is primarily males in their 20s and 30s. Despite the fact that men outnumber women, more females are now on the trails than ever before. Recent design changes to mountain bikes with larger tires (29ers or two-niners are mountain bikes built to accommodate larger wheels) can make riding easier. The trail network at Holiday Valley primarily consists of single-track trails, narrow in size and comparable in width to a cross country track. Riders at Holiday Valley are left to their own devices but are asked to wear helmets. Weekends attract the majority of bikers but Eshbaugh shared that the trails are never overcrowded. Some more adventurous riders even venture out at night adorned with headlamps. Best of all, access to the trails is free.
“Although riders at Holiday Valley won’t be confronted with a lot of downhill challenges, mountain biking is a high risk sport,” explained Eshbaugh. “Our trails are very challenging and riders need to do some significant uphill pedaling just to access them. We really don’t encourage beginners to ride our trails until they have gained some mastery of the sport.” For families or groups comprised of individuals with different riding abilities, the Art Roscoe trails in Allegheny State Park offer a great network of beginner trails. The park, just a short drive from Ellicottville, is where riders new to the sport may experience over 12 miles of wide, grasscovered trails. In addition to Mountain Bike adventures, Holiday Valley offers other fitness activities
in the nice weather. An on-site Climbing Forest is a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall and the only one of three located in the United States. In addition, the Sky High Aerial Adventure Park offers a series of platforms and “bridges” constructed in the woods. The platforms are built in the trees and bridges and zip lines connect the platforms. The challenge is to figure out how to get across from one platform to the next. Consider making a weekend out of your mountain biking trip with an overnight at the Inn at Holiday Valley. You may then take advantage of the Inn’s hot tub, continental breakfast and use of the Holiday Valley pools (through Labor Day), plus a chance to enjoy all the fun of Ellicottville. You may learn more about these and other activities at www.holidayvalley.com.
Never before have all Western New York 5k winners met head to head in one race to decide who is the best at the distance. The Champions 5K will determine the true champion. Buffalo’s incomparable Labor Day weekend tradition of fine racing, great food and drink, and hanging with good friends on the Parkway continues. Take advantage of the PR-friendly course, then join the party and welcome in the Western New York Running Hall of Fame Class of 2015. http://wnyrunninghof.com/
The culmination of the mountain biking season comes in October with the Fall Festival Mt. Bike Race. This is a fun and relaxed race, but definitely an event where participants get muddy.
Sunday, October 11th Start Time - 10:00 am Holiday Valley Ellicottville, NY
This event helps support HEART Animal Shelters of WNY and the WNY Mountain Bicycling Association’s equipment fund helping keep our area single track alive and kicking. Awards: Novice, Beginner, Sport & Expert Classes Top three in 10 year age groups http://www.heartrateup.com/fallfestmtbrace1011.html
Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Hiking Tour Saturday, October 10th Start Time - 9:15 am Niagara Gorge Niagara Falls, NY
Come join us on these tours as we explore our local watershed to learn about the history and importance of these places. http://bnriverkeeper.org/rivertours/hiking-registration/
Sunday, August 30th Start Time - 7:00 am Lockport Infirmary Complex Lockport, NY 7:00am: ‘Transition area’ opens. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the event. 8:00 am: “The 45” - 20k bike (single clockwise loop of the 20k bike course, East of Lockport) [12.2 miles] - 5k run (2.5k out and back. About 2k on road down to Erie Canal bike/run path, out and back on path, then 2k uphill on roads back to start/finish. [3.1 miles] - 20k bike, same as first bike loop [12.2 miles] http://www.buffalotriathlonclub.com/events/lockport-undu
Buffalo Paddlefest 2015
Fall Festival Mountain Bike Race
HIKING
Attn. Advertisers - The ad submission deadline for the October edition of Buffalo Trek is Friday, October 2nd at 5:00 PM. Thank you.
One of the more popular summertime activities at the resort is mountain biking and, in this instance, “Epic” refers to more than just the majestic views a visitor will encounter. The International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA www.imba.com) includes Holiday Valley as an Epic® designated course. The “Epic” designation is reserved for sites that offer a technically and physically challenging true backcountry riding experience. Epic trails are greater than 80 percent single track and at least 20 miles in length. Epic sites offer riders amazing opportunities to interact with the natural world.
Another added draw to riding at Holiday Valley is Spruce Lake. The unique lake is a protected snow-making reservoir at the top of the Holiday Valley. Be it individuals training for a triathlon or those looking to refresh themselves after a strenuous ride, taking a dip in the lake offers a nice reward.
Friday, September 4th Start Time - 6:30 pm Elmwood Ave & Bidwell Parkway Buffalo, NY
The BTC Lockport UnDu
PADDLING
We encourage our readers to browse these pages and visit www.buffalotrek.com to plan your next fitness outing and drop us a line to share your experience. Your story could be featured in an upcoming edition of Buffalo Trek.
For adventurers seeking a challenging mountain biking experience, an “epic” ride awaits you in Ellicottville. Best known to most WNYers as a premier winter destination for skiing and snowboarding, Holiday Valley has become a full-season destination hub offering an array of fitness activities.
WNY Running Hall of Fame Presents The Champions 5K
BIKING
As the remaining days of summer begin to dwindle, the Buffalo Trek team is busy taking advantage of WNY’s warm weather and all that it has to offer. One of the great aspects of covering outdoor fitness activities is the thrill associated with attempting something new for the first time. Whether experiencing an exhilarating mountain bike adventure or learning how to balance on a Stand Up Paddleboard, the pleasure associated with outdoor adventure is hard to match.
Epic Trails Await Mountain Bikers at Holiday Valley
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
MULTI-SPORT
We are pleased to present you with this, our third edition of Buffalo Trek. Included in these pages are details of upcoming adventures in WNY through midOctober.
FEATURE
RUNNING
A thank you message from our editor
Saturday, August 22nd Start TIme - 9:00 am Gallagher Beach/Buffalo Harbor Buffalo, NY The Mission of the Buffalo Paddle Festival is to bring awareness to the recreational opportunities on Buffalo’s Waterfront and to promote environmental awareness and stewardship for its waterfront. Proceeds from the event will benefit the development of an Adaptive Paddling Program through WNY Adaptive Water Sports a 501 (c)(3) local chapter of Disabled Sports USA organized to promote and advocate water recreation for the disabled. www.buffalopaddlefestival.itsyourrace.com
For a complete list of outdoor and fitness events, please visit
www.BuffaloTrek.com.
GEAR FOR ADVENTURE Gear for Adventure is an independently owned and operated outdoor equipment and clothing retailer located at 305 Buffalo Street in the Village of Hamburg. Opened in 2004, the store owners are the husband and wife team of Kevin and Sarah Beckwith. The Beckwiths have fulfilled their lifelong dream of owning a business that mirrors their outdoor passions. Gear for Adventure sells quality gear like MSR, Osprey, Big Agnes and
kayaks. They focus on needs for camping, hiking, paddle sports and winter adventures. In addition to their Southtowns location, the Gear for Adventure website offers a seamless online shopping experience. Rentals on tents, sleeping bags, backpacks and kayaks are also available.
Save 10% on your next Gear for Adventure purchase by using the promotional code BUFFALOTREK-GEAR FOR ADVENTURE August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 3
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.
Page 2
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
“Mountain biking at our resort goes back to the early 1990s,” shared Holiday Valley Marketing Director, Jane Eshbaugh. What began as a simple trail grew into a fivemile race loop and has further expanded into an elaborate network of over 35 miles of trails on adjoining state land. In addition to the crew at Holiday Valley, this elaborate trail system is maintained by IMBA’s local chapter, the Western New York Mountain Biking Association (WNYMBA - www.wnymba.org). “Our affiliation with WNYMBA and their dedication to keeping our trails groomed has been the catalyst for the growing popularity of biking here at Holiday Valley,” added Eshbaugh. The typical demographic of a WNY mountain biker is primarily males in their 20s and 30s. Despite the fact that men outnumber women, more females are now on the trails than ever before. Recent design changes to mountain bikes with larger tires (29ers or two-niners are mountain bikes built to accommodate larger wheels) can make riding easier. The trail network at Holiday Valley primarily consists of single-track trails, narrow in size and comparable in width to a cross country track. Riders at Holiday Valley are left to their own devices but are asked to wear helmets. Weekends attract the majority of bikers but Eshbaugh shared that the trails are never overcrowded. Some more adventurous riders even venture out at night adorned with headlamps. Best of all, access to the trails is free.
“Although riders at Holiday Valley won’t be confronted with a lot of downhill challenges, mountain biking is a high risk sport,” explained Eshbaugh. “Our trails are very challenging and riders need to do some significant uphill pedaling just to access them. We really don’t encourage beginners to ride our trails until they have gained some mastery of the sport.” For families or groups comprised of individuals with different riding abilities, the Art Roscoe trails in Allegheny State Park offer a great network of beginner trails. The park, just a short drive from Ellicottville, is where riders new to the sport may experience over 12 miles of wide, grasscovered trails. In addition to Mountain Bike adventures, Holiday Valley offers other fitness activities
in the nice weather. An on-site Climbing Forest is a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall and the only one of three located in the United States. In addition, the Sky High Aerial Adventure Park offers a series of platforms and “bridges” constructed in the woods. The platforms are built in the trees and bridges and zip lines connect the platforms. The challenge is to figure out how to get across from one platform to the next. Consider making a weekend out of your mountain biking trip with an overnight at the Inn at Holiday Valley. You may then take advantage of the Inn’s hot tub, continental breakfast and use of the Holiday Valley pools (through Labor Day), plus a chance to enjoy all the fun of Ellicottville. You may learn more about these and other activities at www.holidayvalley.com.
Never before have all Western New York 5k winners met head to head in one race to decide who is the best at the distance. The Champions 5K will determine the true champion. Buffalo’s incomparable Labor Day weekend tradition of fine racing, great food and drink, and hanging with good friends on the Parkway continues. Take advantage of the PR-friendly course, then join the party and welcome in the Western New York Running Hall of Fame Class of 2015. http://wnyrunninghof.com/
The culmination of the mountain biking season comes in October with the Fall Festival Mt. Bike Race. This is a fun and relaxed race, but definitely an event where participants get muddy.
Sunday, October 11th Start Time - 10:00 am Holiday Valley Ellicottville, NY
This event helps support HEART Animal Shelters of WNY and the WNY Mountain Bicycling Association’s equipment fund helping keep our area single track alive and kicking. Awards: Novice, Beginner, Sport & Expert Classes Top three in 10 year age groups http://www.heartrateup.com/fallfestmtbrace1011.html
Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Hiking Tour Saturday, October 10th Start Time - 9:15 am Niagara Gorge Niagara Falls, NY
Come join us on these tours as we explore our local watershed to learn about the history and importance of these places. http://bnriverkeeper.org/rivertours/hiking-registration/
Sunday, August 30th Start Time - 7:00 am Lockport Infirmary Complex Lockport, NY 7:00am: ‘Transition area’ opens. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the event. 8:00 am: “The 45” - 20k bike (single clockwise loop of the 20k bike course, East of Lockport) [12.2 miles] - 5k run (2.5k out and back. About 2k on road down to Erie Canal bike/run path, out and back on path, then 2k uphill on roads back to start/finish. [3.1 miles] - 20k bike, same as first bike loop [12.2 miles] http://www.buffalotriathlonclub.com/events/lockport-undu
Buffalo Paddlefest 2015
Fall Festival Mountain Bike Race
HIKING
Attn. Advertisers - The ad submission deadline for the October edition of Buffalo Trek is Friday, October 2nd at 5:00 PM. Thank you.
One of the more popular summertime activities at the resort is mountain biking and, in this instance, “Epic” refers to more than just the majestic views a visitor will encounter. The International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA www.imba.com) includes Holiday Valley as an Epic® designated course. The “Epic” designation is reserved for sites that offer a technically and physically challenging true backcountry riding experience. Epic trails are greater than 80 percent single track and at least 20 miles in length. Epic sites offer riders amazing opportunities to interact with the natural world.
Another added draw to riding at Holiday Valley is Spruce Lake. The unique lake is a protected snow-making reservoir at the top of the Holiday Valley. Be it individuals training for a triathlon or those looking to refresh themselves after a strenuous ride, taking a dip in the lake offers a nice reward.
Friday, September 4th Start Time - 6:30 pm Elmwood Ave & Bidwell Parkway Buffalo, NY
The BTC Lockport UnDu
PADDLING
We encourage our readers to browse these pages and visit www.buffalotrek.com to plan your next fitness outing and drop us a line to share your experience. Your story could be featured in an upcoming edition of Buffalo Trek.
For adventurers seeking a challenging mountain biking experience, an “epic” ride awaits you in Ellicottville. Best known to most WNYers as a premier winter destination for skiing and snowboarding, Holiday Valley has become a full-season destination hub offering an array of fitness activities.
WNY Running Hall of Fame Presents The Champions 5K
BIKING
As the remaining days of summer begin to dwindle, the Buffalo Trek team is busy taking advantage of WNY’s warm weather and all that it has to offer. One of the great aspects of covering outdoor fitness activities is the thrill associated with attempting something new for the first time. Whether experiencing an exhilarating mountain bike adventure or learning how to balance on a Stand Up Paddleboard, the pleasure associated with outdoor adventure is hard to match.
Epic Trails Await Mountain Bikers at Holiday Valley
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
MULTI-SPORT
We are pleased to present you with this, our third edition of Buffalo Trek. Included in these pages are details of upcoming adventures in WNY through midOctober.
FEATURE
RUNNING
A thank you message from our editor
Saturday, August 22nd Start TIme - 9:00 am Gallagher Beach/Buffalo Harbor Buffalo, NY The Mission of the Buffalo Paddle Festival is to bring awareness to the recreational opportunities on Buffalo’s Waterfront and to promote environmental awareness and stewardship for its waterfront. Proceeds from the event will benefit the development of an Adaptive Paddling Program through WNY Adaptive Water Sports a 501 (c)(3) local chapter of Disabled Sports USA organized to promote and advocate water recreation for the disabled. www.buffalopaddlefestival.itsyourrace.com
For a complete list of outdoor and fitness events, please visit
www.BuffaloTrek.com.
GEAR FOR ADVENTURE Gear for Adventure is an independently owned and operated outdoor equipment and clothing retailer located at 305 Buffalo Street in the Village of Hamburg. Opened in 2004, the store owners are the husband and wife team of Kevin and Sarah Beckwith. The Beckwiths have fulfilled their lifelong dream of owning a business that mirrors their outdoor passions. Gear for Adventure sells quality gear like MSR, Osprey, Big Agnes and
kayaks. They focus on needs for camping, hiking, paddle sports and winter adventures. In addition to their Southtowns location, the Gear for Adventure website offers a seamless online shopping experience. Rentals on tents, sleeping bags, backpacks and kayaks are also available.
Save 10% on your next Gear for Adventure purchase by using the promotional code BUFFALOTREK-GEAR FOR ADVENTURE August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 3
FITNESS
RUNNING
Impact Sports Performance Taking Team & Adult Athletic Training to New Heights
Mighty Niagara Half Slated for September 19th
When asked what differentiates Impact Sports Performance from its competitors, Director of Athletic Development, Jason Jerome immediately replied, “Our staff.” While few could argue that Impact offers the most state-of-the-art training facility in WNY, Jerome stressed that his team is what defines the Impact experience.
What started in 2009 as the Hospice Dash 5k, expanded to a half marathon (13.1 mile) route in 2011 and has never looked back. “What really makes our race stand apart from most is the route itself,” explained Event Organizer, Maureen Rizzo. The race starts in Artpark, proceeds along the Niagara River through Old Fort Niagara and ends at Porter-On-The-Lake Park offering scenic vistas hard to match. The race traverses through the historic and picturesque village streets of Lewiston and Youngstown.
Impact Sports Performance is one of WNY’s newest and most prominent sports performance training facilities. Located in the HarborCenter, the 4500 squarefoot complex provides a commanding view of Canalside for anyone exercising there. As much as one can admire all Terry and Kim Pegula have done with the Sabres and Bills, the HarborCenter and by extension, Impact Sports Performance is a physical manifestation of their steadfast commitment to the residents of WNY. Located just steps away from the HarborCenter’s main rink, Impact Sports Performance is a training mecca that caters to a wide array of clientele. “As most WNYers know, everything Terry and Kim get involved with exceeds expectations. There are some individuals who might have the financial resources to be able to acquire the equipment we have here, but the Pegulas primarily invest in people,” shared Jerome. “Sure, we are proud of the facility and all it offers, but more important is the ‘intellectual capital’ invested here. The educational background of our sports performance team ranks second to none throughout New York State,” added Jerome.
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Go to BuffaloTrek.com and sign up for our monthly e-mail updates
Page 4
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
Whether working with high school or college athletic teams or helping prepare a middle-aged man or women who may be attempting to run their first 5k, the coaches at Impact are committed to helping individuals reach their goals. The staff currently boasts the Athletic Trainers from both the Buffalo Bandits professional indoor lacrosse team and the Buffalo Junior Sabres organization. Impact has also recently added a partnership with the NEXT LEVEL Running Club, as well as a Physical Therapist, to look after all sports medicine related issues. Although many people may associate Impact with hockey-specific training, Jerome and his staff work with a wide variety of teams including those representing football, women’s volleyball, synchronized swimming, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and rowing. Also taking advantage of what Impact offers, both individual athletes and teams from right
Niagara County’s premier annual running event, growing in popularity with runners throughout WNY and beyond, is the Mighty Niagara Half Marathon and Hospice Dash 5k slated for September 19th.
Adding to the majestic scenery, The Mighty Niagara features a mostly downhill course, perfect for anyone attempting their first half marathon. The course, along with the festive atmosphere associated with the
here in WNY and across the country have made their way to the complex. Jerome strongly stressed that training at Impact is not cost prohibitive. Team training can cost as little as $5 per workout per participant. In addition to teams visiting the HarborCenter, oftentimes training is complemented with alternating weekly sessions at the client’s school or practice facility. In addition to team training, Impact offers three adult fitness classes per day. Typical clientele of Impact’s adult classes are those who value the expertise of knowledgeable and experienced staff. Focusing on their sports science background, Impact coaches take athletes both young and old through a proper work-to-rest rotation methodology. This applies to individual classes as well as for those who visit Impact multiple times each week. “Our staff puts an emphasis on energy system development and is also very aware of injury prevention,” said Jerome. Impact also offers corporate training classes for local businesses and accepts Flex cards offered by most local insurance providers. To learn more, visit: www.harborcenter.com/impact
race, makes this a “must-run” for many. Live music greets runners at the starting line and music continues to encourage participants along the route as bands are interspersed about every mile throughout the course. The event drew approximately 2000 runners in 2014, 1500 half marathon participants along with another 500 individuals taking part in the 5k. “Not only does the race continue to grow in size, but we are amazed at the number of runners visiting from outside of WNY. We have attracted runners from across the border in Canada to as far away as Mexico and Great Britain,” shared Rizzo. “Aside from the outstanding race coordination provided by Paul Beatty and his team at Race Management Solutions (RMS) each year, we are so fortunate to have Yahoo back for the second year as our presenting sponsor,” added Rizzo.
The race has always supported Niagara Hospice and as the size of the half marathon continues to grow, Rizzo emphasized that many runners and even casual walkers may support the cause by taking part in the 5k. All proceeds raised through the event stay locally in Niagara County going directly back to support the services of Niagara Hospice. The race will offer a Team Spirit award as well as a Dress Like a Rock Star award. “We do our very best to keep the race fun on a number of levels,” explained Rizzo. A new component of this year’s race, although optional, will be the ability to run as a team and fundraise for Niagara Hospice. For more information or to register for The Mighty Niagara Half Marathon, visit www.mightyniagarahalfmarathon.com
Current programs being offered at Impact Sports include: • • • • • • •
One-hour Individual Training Sessions Fitness Evaluations Injury Predisposition Screenings Nutritional Profile Assessments Youth Performance Trainings High School Performance Trainings Adult Performance Trainings
The facility boasts: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
35-yard, three-lane indoor turf track UCS Olympic Training Racks TRX Suspension Trainer Woodway Curve Treadmills Woodway Force Treadmill Watt Bikes Keiser Performance Trainers Fit Light Trainers Keiser Air Runners Power plate UCS Glute and Ham Machines Ultra Slide Boards VertiMax Platforms A variety of resistance training accessories A variety of speed, agility and power training equipment
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 5
FITNESS
RUNNING
Impact Sports Performance Taking Team & Adult Athletic Training to New Heights
Mighty Niagara Half Slated for September 19th
When asked what differentiates Impact Sports Performance from its competitors, Director of Athletic Development, Jason Jerome immediately replied, “Our staff.” While few could argue that Impact offers the most state-of-the-art training facility in WNY, Jerome stressed that his team is what defines the Impact experience.
What started in 2009 as the Hospice Dash 5k, expanded to a half marathon (13.1 mile) route in 2011 and has never looked back. “What really makes our race stand apart from most is the route itself,” explained Event Organizer, Maureen Rizzo. The race starts in Artpark, proceeds along the Niagara River through Old Fort Niagara and ends at Porter-On-The-Lake Park offering scenic vistas hard to match. The race traverses through the historic and picturesque village streets of Lewiston and Youngstown.
Impact Sports Performance is one of WNY’s newest and most prominent sports performance training facilities. Located in the HarborCenter, the 4500 squarefoot complex provides a commanding view of Canalside for anyone exercising there. As much as one can admire all Terry and Kim Pegula have done with the Sabres and Bills, the HarborCenter and by extension, Impact Sports Performance is a physical manifestation of their steadfast commitment to the residents of WNY. Located just steps away from the HarborCenter’s main rink, Impact Sports Performance is a training mecca that caters to a wide array of clientele. “As most WNYers know, everything Terry and Kim get involved with exceeds expectations. There are some individuals who might have the financial resources to be able to acquire the equipment we have here, but the Pegulas primarily invest in people,” shared Jerome. “Sure, we are proud of the facility and all it offers, but more important is the ‘intellectual capital’ invested here. The educational background of our sports performance team ranks second to none throughout New York State,” added Jerome.
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Go to BuffaloTrek.com and sign up for our monthly e-mail updates
Page 4
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
Whether working with high school or college athletic teams or helping prepare a middle-aged man or women who may be attempting to run their first 5k, the coaches at Impact are committed to helping individuals reach their goals. The staff currently boasts the Athletic Trainers from both the Buffalo Bandits professional indoor lacrosse team and the Buffalo Junior Sabres organization. Impact has also recently added a partnership with the NEXT LEVEL Running Club, as well as a Physical Therapist, to look after all sports medicine related issues. Although many people may associate Impact with hockey-specific training, Jerome and his staff work with a wide variety of teams including those representing football, women’s volleyball, synchronized swimming, soccer, baseball, lacrosse and rowing. Also taking advantage of what Impact offers, both individual athletes and teams from right
Niagara County’s premier annual running event, growing in popularity with runners throughout WNY and beyond, is the Mighty Niagara Half Marathon and Hospice Dash 5k slated for September 19th.
Adding to the majestic scenery, The Mighty Niagara features a mostly downhill course, perfect for anyone attempting their first half marathon. The course, along with the festive atmosphere associated with the
here in WNY and across the country have made their way to the complex. Jerome strongly stressed that training at Impact is not cost prohibitive. Team training can cost as little as $5 per workout per participant. In addition to teams visiting the HarborCenter, oftentimes training is complemented with alternating weekly sessions at the client’s school or practice facility. In addition to team training, Impact offers three adult fitness classes per day. Typical clientele of Impact’s adult classes are those who value the expertise of knowledgeable and experienced staff. Focusing on their sports science background, Impact coaches take athletes both young and old through a proper work-to-rest rotation methodology. This applies to individual classes as well as for those who visit Impact multiple times each week. “Our staff puts an emphasis on energy system development and is also very aware of injury prevention,” said Jerome. Impact also offers corporate training classes for local businesses and accepts Flex cards offered by most local insurance providers. To learn more, visit: www.harborcenter.com/impact
race, makes this a “must-run” for many. Live music greets runners at the starting line and music continues to encourage participants along the route as bands are interspersed about every mile throughout the course. The event drew approximately 2000 runners in 2014, 1500 half marathon participants along with another 500 individuals taking part in the 5k. “Not only does the race continue to grow in size, but we are amazed at the number of runners visiting from outside of WNY. We have attracted runners from across the border in Canada to as far away as Mexico and Great Britain,” shared Rizzo. “Aside from the outstanding race coordination provided by Paul Beatty and his team at Race Management Solutions (RMS) each year, we are so fortunate to have Yahoo back for the second year as our presenting sponsor,” added Rizzo.
The race has always supported Niagara Hospice and as the size of the half marathon continues to grow, Rizzo emphasized that many runners and even casual walkers may support the cause by taking part in the 5k. All proceeds raised through the event stay locally in Niagara County going directly back to support the services of Niagara Hospice. The race will offer a Team Spirit award as well as a Dress Like a Rock Star award. “We do our very best to keep the race fun on a number of levels,” explained Rizzo. A new component of this year’s race, although optional, will be the ability to run as a team and fundraise for Niagara Hospice. For more information or to register for The Mighty Niagara Half Marathon, visit www.mightyniagarahalfmarathon.com
Current programs being offered at Impact Sports include: • • • • • • •
One-hour Individual Training Sessions Fitness Evaluations Injury Predisposition Screenings Nutritional Profile Assessments Youth Performance Trainings High School Performance Trainings Adult Performance Trainings
The facility boasts: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
35-yard, three-lane indoor turf track UCS Olympic Training Racks TRX Suspension Trainer Woodway Curve Treadmills Woodway Force Treadmill Watt Bikes Keiser Performance Trainers Fit Light Trainers Keiser Air Runners Power plate UCS Glute and Ham Machines Ultra Slide Boards VertiMax Platforms A variety of resistance training accessories A variety of speed, agility and power training equipment
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 5
EVENT CALENDAR : AUGUST 15 - OCTOBER 15
August Finn McCool 4 Mile Odyssey Saturday August 15th 9:00 am South Buffalo, NY Multi-Sport, Spotlight Events The iWacko / Sarah Johnson Memorial 5K Run Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Wilison, NY Running Erie County Fair 5K Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Hamburg, NY Running 33rd Donald R. Carroll Toys For Kids Memorial Run/Walk Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Batavia, NY Fitness, Running Reach The Beach 5K Saturday August 15th 9:30 am Irving, NY Running Old Forge Triathlon Sunday August 16th 7:50 am Old Forge, NY Multi-Sport Run For Row Sunday August 16th 9:00 am Lancaster, NY Running 29th Annual Moonlight Run Wednesday August 19th 8:00 pm Williamsville, NY Running Kayaking with Tina Thursday August 20th Grand Island, NY Paddle
Rochester Triathlon 2015 Saturday August 22nd 8:00 am Rochester, NY Multi-Sport Page 6
Buffalo Trek
Buffalo Paddle Festival Saturday August 22nd 9:00 am Buffalo, NY Paddle, Spotlight Events
Chautauqua Gran Fondo Saturday August 29th 8:00 am Mayville, NY Biking
Ride for Abe Saturday August 22nd 9:30 am Brant, NY Biking
Tops 5K and 10K Run For Roswell and Family Walk Saturday August 29th 9:30 am Williamsville, NY Fitness, Running
Metro 10 Mile Race Saturday August 22nd 10:00 am Albion, NY Running Where there’s a Jill there’s a way 5k/10k Saturday August 22nd 10:00 am Attica, NY Running Kia Memorial Road March Saturday August 22nd 11:00 am Orchard Park, NY Fitness, Hiking, Running ‘Dam’ Good Trail Race Sunday August 23rd 8:30 am Mt Morris, NY Running Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish 5K Sunday August 23rd 11:15 am North Tonawanda, NY Running Kayaking with Tina Thursday August 27th Grand Island, NY Paddle Lancaster Striders Mile Thursday August 27th 6:30 pm Lancaster, NY Running Celtic Challenge Friday August 28th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
Rendezvous Run Thursday August 20th 6:30 pm Lancaster, NY Running
August 2015
EVENT CALENDAR : AUGUST 15 - OCTOBER 15
Peaceprints 5K Saturday August 29th 8:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
WNY Hispanic-American Veteran’s Memorial 5K Saturday September 12th 11:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Domstock 5k and Pigfest! Saturday September 12th 3:00 pm Gasport, NY Running
Cross Country Crusade Saturday August 29th 10:00 am East Aurora, NY Running Schoellkopf Score-O (Event #2 of the Buffalo Score-O Series) Saturday August 29th 11:00 am Cowlesville, NY Hiking Telegraph Road Race Sunday August 30th 2:00 pm Pike, NY Running
September Kayaking with Tina Thursday September 3rd Grand Island, NY Paddle The Big Sea Kayak, Mount Batten Centre Plymouth September 4 - September 6 Mt Batten, UK Paddle WNY Running Hall of Fame Presents: The Champions 5k Friday September 4th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running Texas Roadhouse Running for the Cure Saturday September 5th 10:00 am Kenmore, NY Fitness, Running The Biggest Lost Half Marathon 5k Sunday September 6th 8:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Dan Feather Memorial 5K and Walk Sunday September 6th 9:30 am Jamestown, NY Running Harvest Moon Run Wednesday September 9th 6:30 pm Pendleton, NY Running Oktoberfest & 5K Nature Run/Walk Friday September 11th 6:30 pm Clarence, NY Running Tour de Farms Saturday September 12th 7:00 am Buffalo, NY Biking Peach Festival 5k Run Saturday September 12th 9:00 am Lewiston, NY Fitness, Running Scrub 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk Saturday September 12th 9:30 am South Buffalo, NY Running Lebro’s Fall Classic Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Getzville, NY Running Glen Iris 5K Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Castile, NY Running Derby Fair 5K Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Evans, NY Running
Food Is Our Medicine Fall Festival 5K Sunday September 13th 9:00 am Irving, NY Running Headway Walk, Run & Wheel 5k Sunday September 13th 9:30 am Buffalo, NY Fitness, Running 8 in the Rough Trail Sunday September 13th 10:00 am Glenwood, NY Running 3rd Annual Chautauqua Ultras Saturday September 19th 7:00 am Mayville, NY Running Hospice Dash 5k Saturday September 19th 9:00 am Youngstown, NY Running Mighty Niagara Half Marathon Saturday September 19th 9:15 am Lewiston, NY Running Connor’s 5K Weiner Run Saturday September 19th 10:00 am Angola-on-the-Lake, NY Running
Derby Snap Fitness 5k Run/walk Sunday September 20th 10:00 am Derby, NY Fitness, Running
Bemus Point 15k Sunday September 27th 9:00 am Bemus Point, NY Running
Olivia’s 5k Wish Run Sunday October 4th 11:00 am Irving, NY Running
Niagara Celtic 5k Sunday September 20th 11:00 am Olcott, NY Running
Run For The Grapes Sunday September 27th 9:00 am St. Catharines, Running
Vietnam Vets 5K Sunday October 4th 11:00 am Lockport, NY Running
24th Annual Shea’s Run For the Arts Sunday September 20th 11:30 am Buffalo, NY Running
Linda Yalem Safety Run Sunday September 27th 9:30 am Amherst, NY Running
St. Mark’s, Get Set, Go! 5K Saturday October 10th 9:30 am North Tonawanda, NY Running
Tanya’s Trot for Epilepsy Sunday September 20th 2:00 pm Akron, NY Running
Step Up For Kids Sunday September 27th 10:00 am Cassadaga, NY Fitness, Running
2015 Lucy Town Half Marathon Sunday October 11th 9:00 am Jamestown, NY Running
Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival September 26 - September 27 Schroon Lake, NY Running
Ronald McDonald House Tuesday September 29th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
Fall Festival 5K Run Saturday October 10th 10:00 am Ellicottville, NY Running
Run In The Country Saturday September 26th 9:00 am Amherst, NY Running
October
Seabirds Saturday Tour Long Point Park, Chautauqua Saturday October 10th 11:00 am Bemus Point, NY Paddle
Step Up for Autism Saturday September 26th 9:00 am Jamestown, NY Fitness, Running Autumn Challenge Saturday September 26th 10:00 am Glenwood, NY Running The Ellicottville Adventure Run & Hike Saturday September 26th 11:00 am Ellicottville, NY Hiking
Tails on Trails Saturday September 19th 10:00 am Orchard Park, NY Running
Outrun the Dark 5k Saturday September 26th 7:15 pm Jamestown, NY Running
Rochester Marathon and Half Marathon Sunday September 20th 7:30 am Rochester, NY Running
Woods Walk & Fonni Fest 2015 Sunday September 27th 8:00 am Portville, NY Hiking, Running
Marilla Trail Race Saturday October 3rd 9:30 am Bradford, PA Fitness, Hiking, Running 6th Annual Flight 3407 Memorial 5k Race Saturday October 3rd 9:30 am Clarence, NY Running Maggie Lee Memorial For Epilepsy Awareness 5K Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Run for the ACORNS 5k Trail Run/ Walk and 10k Trail Run Sunday October 11th 8:00 am East Bethany, NY Fitness, Running
For a complete list of outdoor and fitness events, please visit
www.BuffaloTrek.com.
Dr. Brian Cox 4164 N. Buffalo Rd Orchard Park, NY 14217
Ryan Purcell Memorial Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Niagara PAL Cops & Kids Run/Walk Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Niagara Falls, NY Running 5k & Chowder Challenge Saturday October 3rd 11:00 am North Tonawanda, NY
716-826-2766 drbriancox.com August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 7
EVENT CALENDAR : AUGUST 15 - OCTOBER 15
August Finn McCool 4 Mile Odyssey Saturday August 15th 9:00 am South Buffalo, NY Multi-Sport, Spotlight Events The iWacko / Sarah Johnson Memorial 5K Run Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Wilison, NY Running Erie County Fair 5K Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Hamburg, NY Running 33rd Donald R. Carroll Toys For Kids Memorial Run/Walk Saturday August 15th 9:00 am Batavia, NY Fitness, Running Reach The Beach 5K Saturday August 15th 9:30 am Irving, NY Running Old Forge Triathlon Sunday August 16th 7:50 am Old Forge, NY Multi-Sport Run For Row Sunday August 16th 9:00 am Lancaster, NY Running 29th Annual Moonlight Run Wednesday August 19th 8:00 pm Williamsville, NY Running Kayaking with Tina Thursday August 20th Grand Island, NY Paddle
Rochester Triathlon 2015 Saturday August 22nd 8:00 am Rochester, NY Multi-Sport Page 6
Buffalo Trek
Buffalo Paddle Festival Saturday August 22nd 9:00 am Buffalo, NY Paddle, Spotlight Events
Chautauqua Gran Fondo Saturday August 29th 8:00 am Mayville, NY Biking
Ride for Abe Saturday August 22nd 9:30 am Brant, NY Biking
Tops 5K and 10K Run For Roswell and Family Walk Saturday August 29th 9:30 am Williamsville, NY Fitness, Running
Metro 10 Mile Race Saturday August 22nd 10:00 am Albion, NY Running Where there’s a Jill there’s a way 5k/10k Saturday August 22nd 10:00 am Attica, NY Running Kia Memorial Road March Saturday August 22nd 11:00 am Orchard Park, NY Fitness, Hiking, Running ‘Dam’ Good Trail Race Sunday August 23rd 8:30 am Mt Morris, NY Running Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish 5K Sunday August 23rd 11:15 am North Tonawanda, NY Running Kayaking with Tina Thursday August 27th Grand Island, NY Paddle Lancaster Striders Mile Thursday August 27th 6:30 pm Lancaster, NY Running Celtic Challenge Friday August 28th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
Rendezvous Run Thursday August 20th 6:30 pm Lancaster, NY Running
August 2015
EVENT CALENDAR : AUGUST 15 - OCTOBER 15
Peaceprints 5K Saturday August 29th 8:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
WNY Hispanic-American Veteran’s Memorial 5K Saturday September 12th 11:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Domstock 5k and Pigfest! Saturday September 12th 3:00 pm Gasport, NY Running
Cross Country Crusade Saturday August 29th 10:00 am East Aurora, NY Running Schoellkopf Score-O (Event #2 of the Buffalo Score-O Series) Saturday August 29th 11:00 am Cowlesville, NY Hiking Telegraph Road Race Sunday August 30th 2:00 pm Pike, NY Running
September Kayaking with Tina Thursday September 3rd Grand Island, NY Paddle The Big Sea Kayak, Mount Batten Centre Plymouth September 4 - September 6 Mt Batten, UK Paddle WNY Running Hall of Fame Presents: The Champions 5k Friday September 4th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running Texas Roadhouse Running for the Cure Saturday September 5th 10:00 am Kenmore, NY Fitness, Running The Biggest Lost Half Marathon 5k Sunday September 6th 8:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Dan Feather Memorial 5K and Walk Sunday September 6th 9:30 am Jamestown, NY Running Harvest Moon Run Wednesday September 9th 6:30 pm Pendleton, NY Running Oktoberfest & 5K Nature Run/Walk Friday September 11th 6:30 pm Clarence, NY Running Tour de Farms Saturday September 12th 7:00 am Buffalo, NY Biking Peach Festival 5k Run Saturday September 12th 9:00 am Lewiston, NY Fitness, Running Scrub 5k Run & 1 Mile Walk Saturday September 12th 9:30 am South Buffalo, NY Running Lebro’s Fall Classic Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Getzville, NY Running Glen Iris 5K Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Castile, NY Running Derby Fair 5K Saturday September 12th 10:00 am Evans, NY Running
Food Is Our Medicine Fall Festival 5K Sunday September 13th 9:00 am Irving, NY Running Headway Walk, Run & Wheel 5k Sunday September 13th 9:30 am Buffalo, NY Fitness, Running 8 in the Rough Trail Sunday September 13th 10:00 am Glenwood, NY Running 3rd Annual Chautauqua Ultras Saturday September 19th 7:00 am Mayville, NY Running Hospice Dash 5k Saturday September 19th 9:00 am Youngstown, NY Running Mighty Niagara Half Marathon Saturday September 19th 9:15 am Lewiston, NY Running Connor’s 5K Weiner Run Saturday September 19th 10:00 am Angola-on-the-Lake, NY Running
Derby Snap Fitness 5k Run/walk Sunday September 20th 10:00 am Derby, NY Fitness, Running
Bemus Point 15k Sunday September 27th 9:00 am Bemus Point, NY Running
Olivia’s 5k Wish Run Sunday October 4th 11:00 am Irving, NY Running
Niagara Celtic 5k Sunday September 20th 11:00 am Olcott, NY Running
Run For The Grapes Sunday September 27th 9:00 am St. Catharines, Running
Vietnam Vets 5K Sunday October 4th 11:00 am Lockport, NY Running
24th Annual Shea’s Run For the Arts Sunday September 20th 11:30 am Buffalo, NY Running
Linda Yalem Safety Run Sunday September 27th 9:30 am Amherst, NY Running
St. Mark’s, Get Set, Go! 5K Saturday October 10th 9:30 am North Tonawanda, NY Running
Tanya’s Trot for Epilepsy Sunday September 20th 2:00 pm Akron, NY Running
Step Up For Kids Sunday September 27th 10:00 am Cassadaga, NY Fitness, Running
2015 Lucy Town Half Marathon Sunday October 11th 9:00 am Jamestown, NY Running
Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival September 26 - September 27 Schroon Lake, NY Running
Ronald McDonald House Tuesday September 29th 6:30 pm Buffalo, NY Running
Fall Festival 5K Run Saturday October 10th 10:00 am Ellicottville, NY Running
Run In The Country Saturday September 26th 9:00 am Amherst, NY Running
October
Seabirds Saturday Tour Long Point Park, Chautauqua Saturday October 10th 11:00 am Bemus Point, NY Paddle
Step Up for Autism Saturday September 26th 9:00 am Jamestown, NY Fitness, Running Autumn Challenge Saturday September 26th 10:00 am Glenwood, NY Running The Ellicottville Adventure Run & Hike Saturday September 26th 11:00 am Ellicottville, NY Hiking
Tails on Trails Saturday September 19th 10:00 am Orchard Park, NY Running
Outrun the Dark 5k Saturday September 26th 7:15 pm Jamestown, NY Running
Rochester Marathon and Half Marathon Sunday September 20th 7:30 am Rochester, NY Running
Woods Walk & Fonni Fest 2015 Sunday September 27th 8:00 am Portville, NY Hiking, Running
Marilla Trail Race Saturday October 3rd 9:30 am Bradford, PA Fitness, Hiking, Running 6th Annual Flight 3407 Memorial 5k Race Saturday October 3rd 9:30 am Clarence, NY Running Maggie Lee Memorial For Epilepsy Awareness 5K Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running
Run for the ACORNS 5k Trail Run/ Walk and 10k Trail Run Sunday October 11th 8:00 am East Bethany, NY Fitness, Running
For a complete list of outdoor and fitness events, please visit
www.BuffaloTrek.com.
Dr. Brian Cox 4164 N. Buffalo Rd Orchard Park, NY 14217
Ryan Purcell Memorial Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Buffalo, NY Running Niagara PAL Cops & Kids Run/Walk Saturday October 3rd 10:00 am Niagara Falls, NY Running 5k & Chowder Challenge Saturday October 3rd 11:00 am North Tonawanda, NY
716-826-2766 drbriancox.com August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 7
PADDLING
PADDLING
Seabird’s International Aims to take WNY Paddling to New Heights Many individuals share a genuine excitement about the sports they love; few share their passion as Andrea Vaillancourt-Alder did when recently discussing her lifelong love of paddling. A native Western New Yorker, Vaillancourt-Alder’s love of watersports began in Grand Island where she lived as a youngster. Family holidays in Lake George further contributed to her passion for water activities as she learned to canoe and sail during family vacations. It was during a summer job in the Chesapeake Bay in the 1980s that Vaillancourt-Alder’s love of being on the water grew to include a respect for the environment. Teaching sailing with sea turtles, dolphins, pelicans and bald eagles nearby and canoeing through marshland where the wildlife was teeming had a significant impact on her teaching style and understanding of the marine ecosystem. In 1995, Vaillancourt-Alder’s moved to the United Kingdom and was introduced to sea kayaking. In 2003, she retrained as a kayak and canoe instructor with Canoe England (www.canoe-england.org.uk). In North America, British Canoeing is known as Paddlesports North America (www.paddlesportsnorthamerica.org). With a group of motivated female coaches, Vaillancourt-Alder established the Seabirds Network in 2009. Andrea was fortunate to kayak into Merlins Cave under Tintagel Castle, paddle with basking sharks and sun fish. One of the most memorable kayak experiences was paddling in amongst a huge colony of seals among the cliffs and rock faces of Boscastle famous for its flood in 2004. Paddling other parts of the globe opened up Vaillancourt-Alder’s eyes to the fragile nature of the marine ecosystem. Paddling in South Africa exposed Andrea to some of the largest sand dunes in the world not to mention the exhilaration of kayaking close to hippos and their young! Upon relocating back to WNY, Seabirds International was established in 2014. Vaillancourt-Alder has been busy since that time networking and partnering with other paddling facilities in her effort to grow the sport here locally.
Page 8
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
Seabird International Courses Include: • •
• •
•
Introduction to Paddle Sports - Learn to paddle in a sheltered location. Developing Your Boat-Handling Skills/Improvers Session - Discover new skills and learn how to blend your strokes for better paddling efficiency. Boat Safety - Develop safety and rescue skills for a safe kayak experience. Guided Tours - Tours are available in WNY. Themes tailored to your interests, location dependent on the weather. The Basics - New to kayaking or a bit rusty on your skills? This session will take you through the basics you need to be safe and comfortable on
• •
the water. Kayak Rescues Demo Sessions
You may also learn more about Seabird’s numerous guided tours by visiting their website at www.seabirds.co Although Seabirds very much caters to men and women paddlers, a unique aspect to Vaillancourt-Alder’s approach is to grow the sport among the female population. “Support for women’s-only sporting events is growing,” shared VaillancourtAlder. “This is great news as the benefits of encouraging female participation in sport (any sport) is evident. For women and girls the world over, there is a strong
link between participation in sport and physical activity and their health and general well-being. Being active not only improves health but self-worth. There is evidence that mental health may also be improved by becoming involved in sport,” added Vaillancourt-Alder. Barriers to sport are often to blame for lack of participation. Lack of time, cost, lack of courses and opportunities, and a general fear of being physical in front of other people, may all have a negative effect on females in sport. One of the women involved with the Seabirds Network shared her own experience of learning a new kayaking discipline and how, once the women decided to train separately from the
Seabird’s continued... men, her skill levels improved much more rapidly. Gender ‘norms’ may lead to a lack of confidence in sport; sometimes participating with other genders may lead to feelings of inadequacy. Having mixed courses has tremendous value as both genders may challenge each other to promote learning. Having all female groups however brings a new dynamic to a course. One that naturally lends itself to a less competitive learning environment and is often more suited to potential paddlers who might be a bit unsure of their skills. Clearly there’s no shortage of female interest in paddle sport especially paddle boarding which has the largest number of qualified female instructors compared with kayaking and canoeing. For now, however, kayaking is male-dominated. The 2014 Outdoor Participation Report highlighted that both females and minority groups are significantly underrepresented in every paddle sport category. “I have had many women say to me ‘my husband is out paddling, we bought a boat and share it’. Others say that ‘my husband/boyfriend is out fishing with his friends, and I want to try
kayaking’,” said Vaillancourt-Alder. Seabirds International is working in partnership with the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation as part of their Becoming Outdoors Women Program in WNY, www.dec.ny.gov/ education/68 to provide women’s-only kayaking opportunities, www.seabirds. co. Women’s Wednesdays and Seabirds Saturdays will be held throughout the 2015 paddling season. Private and group sessions are also available at the reduced BOW rate. Contact Andrea for more information. Having a female-focused activity provides an opportunity to improve paddling skills and learn new ones in a supportive, fun and non-competitive environment. When participants were asked what the best thing about participating in an all-female course was, they responded freely: • • • •
Similar learning style, no one person was trying to show off. Training with like-minded people. Coaches that understand females. It was a more relaxed atmosphere and a more honest learning environment because everyone seemed happy to talk about their strengths and
• •
• • • •
weaknesses openly. It was empowering and made me feel proud to be a female paddler! Great as a confidence builder as I realized that I am not the only one who has self-doubt. I don’t think that men would verbalize this fact. Can’t learn if you’re fearful! Having the confidence to practice without feeling intimidated. Atmosphere feels supportive and not competitive. I can be me! Considering I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t be up to standard it’s been far from intimidating, very open, and I’ve learned a lot!
Kayaking is a wonderful sport for exploring the amazing and beautiful waterways here in WNY. It’s also a great sport for developing core muscles as your entire body is used when kayaking. This little known fact can help paddlers develop their skills as they embark on a lifelong new paddling career. Contact Seabirds International to book an adventure and consider joining us in England in September when Seabirds will be working with the Big Sea Kayak Event September 4-6.
EXPERT ADVICE
The Importance of Scapular Stability for Healthy Shoulder Mobility By: Wesley Weaver, PTA Sports PT In the human body, the shoulder is the most mobile joint and the most susceptible to injury. This ball-and-socket joint is made up of the scapula (shoulder blade) and the head of the humerus (arm bone). The scapula contains the glenoid fossa, which is the socket of the shoulder. When the arm moves, the scapula also moves to position the glenoid to assist in shoulder movement. Because the scapula has no bony articulations, muscles attached to the scapula are responsible for its movement and its stabilization. Scapular muscles contract in coordination with the rotator cuff to anchor the scapula and move the shoulder efficiently. Consequently, imbalances and/or weakness of the scapular musculature can result in shoulder dysfunction and lead to injury. Resistance exercises can be done to strengthen the scapular muscles and reduce the risk of injury.
The main stabilizers of the scapula are levator scapulae, rhomboids major and minor, serratus anterior, and trapezii. These muscles can be strengthened through exercises using resistance as well as body weight. Some examples of exercises are shown below: D1 flexion/extension and D2 flexion/ extension are proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) diagonal patterns that mimic functional movements of the shoulder joint. www.hygenicblog.com/2012/04/30/ which-is-better-for-shoulder-diagonalsthera-band-or-dumbbells/ The prone I, T, and Y exercises target the main stabilizers of the scapula. These exercises are begun lying face down with the arms hanging freely. The arms are then brought up as shown in the pictures below, with an emphasis on squeezing
the shoulder blades together. www.fitnessandfreebies.com/exercise/ exercises/ystsis.jpg Shoulder injuries typically occur when the muscles of the shoulder girdle are fatigued. For this reason, these exercises should be performed for 2–3 sets of 10–15 repetitions in order to increase muscular endurance in the shoulder girdle. The muscles of the shoulder work in coordination with the scapular muscles for proper functioning of the shoulder joint. If scapular muscles are not balanced or strong enough, shoulder injury may result. PNF patterns and prone I, T, and Y exercises can aid in the recovery and prevention of a shoulder injury. Try these exercises at home or visit a Sports PT of NY office if you feel that you may suffer from weak scapular muscles! See more at: www.sptny.com/blog
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 9
PADDLING
PADDLING
Seabird’s International Aims to take WNY Paddling to New Heights Many individuals share a genuine excitement about the sports they love; few share their passion as Andrea Vaillancourt-Alder did when recently discussing her lifelong love of paddling. A native Western New Yorker, Vaillancourt-Alder’s love of watersports began in Grand Island where she lived as a youngster. Family holidays in Lake George further contributed to her passion for water activities as she learned to canoe and sail during family vacations. It was during a summer job in the Chesapeake Bay in the 1980s that Vaillancourt-Alder’s love of being on the water grew to include a respect for the environment. Teaching sailing with sea turtles, dolphins, pelicans and bald eagles nearby and canoeing through marshland where the wildlife was teeming had a significant impact on her teaching style and understanding of the marine ecosystem. In 1995, Vaillancourt-Alder’s moved to the United Kingdom and was introduced to sea kayaking. In 2003, she retrained as a kayak and canoe instructor with Canoe England (www.canoe-england.org.uk). In North America, British Canoeing is known as Paddlesports North America (www.paddlesportsnorthamerica.org). With a group of motivated female coaches, Vaillancourt-Alder established the Seabirds Network in 2009. Andrea was fortunate to kayak into Merlins Cave under Tintagel Castle, paddle with basking sharks and sun fish. One of the most memorable kayak experiences was paddling in amongst a huge colony of seals among the cliffs and rock faces of Boscastle famous for its flood in 2004. Paddling other parts of the globe opened up Vaillancourt-Alder’s eyes to the fragile nature of the marine ecosystem. Paddling in South Africa exposed Andrea to some of the largest sand dunes in the world not to mention the exhilaration of kayaking close to hippos and their young! Upon relocating back to WNY, Seabirds International was established in 2014. Vaillancourt-Alder has been busy since that time networking and partnering with other paddling facilities in her effort to grow the sport here locally.
Page 8
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
Seabird International Courses Include: • •
• •
•
Introduction to Paddle Sports - Learn to paddle in a sheltered location. Developing Your Boat-Handling Skills/Improvers Session - Discover new skills and learn how to blend your strokes for better paddling efficiency. Boat Safety - Develop safety and rescue skills for a safe kayak experience. Guided Tours - Tours are available in WNY. Themes tailored to your interests, location dependent on the weather. The Basics - New to kayaking or a bit rusty on your skills? This session will take you through the basics you need to be safe and comfortable on
• •
the water. Kayak Rescues Demo Sessions
You may also learn more about Seabird’s numerous guided tours by visiting their website at www.seabirds.co Although Seabirds very much caters to men and women paddlers, a unique aspect to Vaillancourt-Alder’s approach is to grow the sport among the female population. “Support for women’s-only sporting events is growing,” shared VaillancourtAlder. “This is great news as the benefits of encouraging female participation in sport (any sport) is evident. For women and girls the world over, there is a strong
link between participation in sport and physical activity and their health and general well-being. Being active not only improves health but self-worth. There is evidence that mental health may also be improved by becoming involved in sport,” added Vaillancourt-Alder. Barriers to sport are often to blame for lack of participation. Lack of time, cost, lack of courses and opportunities, and a general fear of being physical in front of other people, may all have a negative effect on females in sport. One of the women involved with the Seabirds Network shared her own experience of learning a new kayaking discipline and how, once the women decided to train separately from the
Seabird’s continued... men, her skill levels improved much more rapidly. Gender ‘norms’ may lead to a lack of confidence in sport; sometimes participating with other genders may lead to feelings of inadequacy. Having mixed courses has tremendous value as both genders may challenge each other to promote learning. Having all female groups however brings a new dynamic to a course. One that naturally lends itself to a less competitive learning environment and is often more suited to potential paddlers who might be a bit unsure of their skills. Clearly there’s no shortage of female interest in paddle sport especially paddle boarding which has the largest number of qualified female instructors compared with kayaking and canoeing. For now, however, kayaking is male-dominated. The 2014 Outdoor Participation Report highlighted that both females and minority groups are significantly underrepresented in every paddle sport category. “I have had many women say to me ‘my husband is out paddling, we bought a boat and share it’. Others say that ‘my husband/boyfriend is out fishing with his friends, and I want to try
kayaking’,” said Vaillancourt-Alder. Seabirds International is working in partnership with the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation as part of their Becoming Outdoors Women Program in WNY, www.dec.ny.gov/ education/68 to provide women’s-only kayaking opportunities, www.seabirds. co. Women’s Wednesdays and Seabirds Saturdays will be held throughout the 2015 paddling season. Private and group sessions are also available at the reduced BOW rate. Contact Andrea for more information. Having a female-focused activity provides an opportunity to improve paddling skills and learn new ones in a supportive, fun and non-competitive environment. When participants were asked what the best thing about participating in an all-female course was, they responded freely: • • • •
Similar learning style, no one person was trying to show off. Training with like-minded people. Coaches that understand females. It was a more relaxed atmosphere and a more honest learning environment because everyone seemed happy to talk about their strengths and
• •
• • • •
weaknesses openly. It was empowering and made me feel proud to be a female paddler! Great as a confidence builder as I realized that I am not the only one who has self-doubt. I don’t think that men would verbalize this fact. Can’t learn if you’re fearful! Having the confidence to practice without feeling intimidated. Atmosphere feels supportive and not competitive. I can be me! Considering I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t be up to standard it’s been far from intimidating, very open, and I’ve learned a lot!
Kayaking is a wonderful sport for exploring the amazing and beautiful waterways here in WNY. It’s also a great sport for developing core muscles as your entire body is used when kayaking. This little known fact can help paddlers develop their skills as they embark on a lifelong new paddling career. Contact Seabirds International to book an adventure and consider joining us in England in September when Seabirds will be working with the Big Sea Kayak Event September 4-6.
EXPERT ADVICE
The Importance of Scapular Stability for Healthy Shoulder Mobility By: Wesley Weaver, PTA Sports PT In the human body, the shoulder is the most mobile joint and the most susceptible to injury. This ball-and-socket joint is made up of the scapula (shoulder blade) and the head of the humerus (arm bone). The scapula contains the glenoid fossa, which is the socket of the shoulder. When the arm moves, the scapula also moves to position the glenoid to assist in shoulder movement. Because the scapula has no bony articulations, muscles attached to the scapula are responsible for its movement and its stabilization. Scapular muscles contract in coordination with the rotator cuff to anchor the scapula and move the shoulder efficiently. Consequently, imbalances and/or weakness of the scapular musculature can result in shoulder dysfunction and lead to injury. Resistance exercises can be done to strengthen the scapular muscles and reduce the risk of injury.
The main stabilizers of the scapula are levator scapulae, rhomboids major and minor, serratus anterior, and trapezii. These muscles can be strengthened through exercises using resistance as well as body weight. Some examples of exercises are shown below: D1 flexion/extension and D2 flexion/ extension are proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) diagonal patterns that mimic functional movements of the shoulder joint. www.hygenicblog.com/2012/04/30/ which-is-better-for-shoulder-diagonalsthera-band-or-dumbbells/ The prone I, T, and Y exercises target the main stabilizers of the scapula. These exercises are begun lying face down with the arms hanging freely. The arms are then brought up as shown in the pictures below, with an emphasis on squeezing
the shoulder blades together. www.fitnessandfreebies.com/exercise/ exercises/ystsis.jpg Shoulder injuries typically occur when the muscles of the shoulder girdle are fatigued. For this reason, these exercises should be performed for 2–3 sets of 10–15 repetitions in order to increase muscular endurance in the shoulder girdle. The muscles of the shoulder work in coordination with the scapular muscles for proper functioning of the shoulder joint. If scapular muscles are not balanced or strong enough, shoulder injury may result. PNF patterns and prone I, T, and Y exercises can aid in the recovery and prevention of a shoulder injury. Try these exercises at home or visit a Sports PT of NY office if you feel that you may suffer from weak scapular muscles! See more at: www.sptny.com/blog
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 9
READER SUBMISSIONS
BUFFALO TREK CHALLENGE Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run - An Out of Towner’s Perspective By: Shelly Wells This past Sunday I participated in the first Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run event. I left Silo City at 8:30 a.m. and paddled approximately 2.3 miles up the Buffalo River to a turnaround point, and then returned to Silo City to bike (18 miles) along the Outer Harbor, and then came back to Silo City again to run four miles through silos, trails and rails. When I read about this adventure, I knew it was a “must do” . . . and I am so thankful I did! From the moment I dropped off my kayak in Silo City to the minute I crossed the Finish Line, I enjoyed Buffalo! In fact, I enjoyed the training and anticipation from the moment I registered for PBR!
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As the sun sparkled on the calm water, I entered my kayak and readied myself to make the trek up river. I enjoyed every moment of the journey . . . soft rustling of the vegetation along the shores, noises from the industrial venues, a train crossing one of the bridges, three blue herons watching from different vantage points along the river, the songs of various other birds, the sight of many colorful paddles coming and going, the tall and expansive silos rising from the river . . . it was just a fabulous paddle on a gorgeous morning. If you paddle, you know that feeling of the sun shining on your face, the paddle sliding through the sparkling water . . . to me, it is spiritual. (Even though it was the first leg of an adventure race.) As Silo City drew nearer, I hated to leave the river, although I knew the remaining pieces of the event would not disappoint . . . and I was right. This was an absolutely awesome event. I will participate again . . . in a heartbeat! In my opinion, Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run promoted fitness, raised awareness of the environment and showcased the waterfront. I don’t live in Buffalo, but I return often because of the fabulous things I have found! Thanks for sharing your city and your river.
Conquer your own challenge. Buff alo Trek focuses on seven primary activities including: Running, Biking, Paddling, Hiking, Multi-sport, Fitness and Winter Sports. To successfully complete the Buff alo Trek Challenge and receive a complimentary Buff alo 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 Buff alo Trek blog or in our newspaper. Submit your stories and photos at buffalotrek.com/buffalo-trek-challenge
One-Tank Trek Getaway The Saranac Lake 6er Program - Saranac Lake, NY Celebrate the outdoors in the Saranac Lake region of the Adirondacks by climbing the six peaks that surround Saranac Lake: Mckenzie, Ampersand, Scarface, Haystack, St. Regis, and Baker. Hike all six peaks to become a ‘6er’! Clockwise from top from left: Michael Dziadaszek enjoys an afternoon creek walking at Zoar Valley; Kerri Bagley learns to kayak in Springville, New York; Zak Krug carries three campers worth of supplies on the Finger Lakes Trail in Central New York; Runners cross the finish line at the Color Run Shine - Canalside, August 1st. Page 10
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
http://saranaclake6er.com/
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 11
READER SUBMISSIONS
BUFFALO TREK CHALLENGE Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run - An Out of Towner’s Perspective By: Shelly Wells This past Sunday I participated in the first Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run event. I left Silo City at 8:30 a.m. and paddled approximately 2.3 miles up the Buffalo River to a turnaround point, and then returned to Silo City to bike (18 miles) along the Outer Harbor, and then came back to Silo City again to run four miles through silos, trails and rails. When I read about this adventure, I knew it was a “must do” . . . and I am so thankful I did! From the moment I dropped off my kayak in Silo City to the minute I crossed the Finish Line, I enjoyed Buffalo! In fact, I enjoyed the training and anticipation from the moment I registered for PBR!
Share your story.
Visit buffalotrek.com/social-share to have the chance to be featured in our next paper.
As the sun sparkled on the calm water, I entered my kayak and readied myself to make the trek up river. I enjoyed every moment of the journey . . . soft rustling of the vegetation along the shores, noises from the industrial venues, a train crossing one of the bridges, three blue herons watching from different vantage points along the river, the songs of various other birds, the sight of many colorful paddles coming and going, the tall and expansive silos rising from the river . . . it was just a fabulous paddle on a gorgeous morning. If you paddle, you know that feeling of the sun shining on your face, the paddle sliding through the sparkling water . . . to me, it is spiritual. (Even though it was the first leg of an adventure race.) As Silo City drew nearer, I hated to leave the river, although I knew the remaining pieces of the event would not disappoint . . . and I was right. This was an absolutely awesome event. I will participate again . . . in a heartbeat! In my opinion, Buffalo Paddle, Bike, Run promoted fitness, raised awareness of the environment and showcased the waterfront. I don’t live in Buffalo, but I return often because of the fabulous things I have found! Thanks for sharing your city and your river.
Conquer your own challenge. Buff alo Trek focuses on seven primary activities including: Running, Biking, Paddling, Hiking, Multi-sport, Fitness and Winter Sports. To successfully complete the Buff alo Trek Challenge and receive a complimentary Buff alo 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 Buff alo Trek blog or in our newspaper. Submit your stories and photos at buffalotrek.com/buffalo-trek-challenge
One-Tank Trek Getaway The Saranac Lake 6er Program - Saranac Lake, NY Celebrate the outdoors in the Saranac Lake region of the Adirondacks by climbing the six peaks that surround Saranac Lake: Mckenzie, Ampersand, Scarface, Haystack, St. Regis, and Baker. Hike all six peaks to become a ‘6er’! Clockwise from top from left: Michael Dziadaszek enjoys an afternoon creek walking at Zoar Valley; Kerri Bagley learns to kayak in Springville, New York; Zak Krug carries three campers worth of supplies on the Finger Lakes Trail in Central New York; Runners cross the finish line at the Color Run Shine - Canalside, August 1st. Page 10
Buffalo Trek
August 2015
http://saranaclake6er.com/
August 2015
Buffalo Trek
Page 11
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Paddling
Winter Sports
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VOL 1 | ISSUE 3 | AUGUST - OCTOBER 2015
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