Competitor November 2014 Issue by Pocket Outdoor Media

NOVEMBER 2014

GOTTA-HAVE-IT GEAR GUIDE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE // RUN A TURKEY TROT // FREE STAY-FIT-THROUGH-THE-HOLIDAYS TRAINING PLAN

107 OF THE BEST GIFT IDEAS FOR RUNNERS

Go Pro Hero 4 p. 60

Suunto Ambit3 Sport p. 55

PLUS Stay Fit Through the Holidays— Free Training Plan p. 36

competitor

NOVEMBER 2014

Newton Kismet p. 50

Deena Kastor / Shalane Flanagan

RECORDS BROKEN

P. 12, 22

and Dennis Kimetto’s new 26.2 record

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Intelligent at its core, the new 860v5 is built for more comfort and is even more excellent than its predecessor. It’s plush, it’s stable, and it’s anything but ordinary.

THIS IS #RUNNOVATION.

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STREET, MEET SMARTS.

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contents NOVEMBER 2014

Check out the lifestyle and performance apparel in our holiday Gift Guide.

features

on the cover NOVEMBER 2014

GOTTA-HAVE-IT GEAR GUIDE

Gift ideas? We got ’em! From warm layers, to the latest shoes, to gadgets and gizmos, we’ve assembled an “ultra” holiday gift guide for your own wish list, plus plenty to please every runner you know. 61 Watches With More

52 Women’s apparel

58 Racing: 5K to marathon

62 Stocking stuffers

54 Mud and obstacle racing

59 Recovery

63 Splurge-Worthy

55 Trail running

60 Travel

NOVEMBER 2014

56 Cross-training

Suunto Ambit3 Sport p. 55

PLUS Stay Fit Through the Holidays— Free Training Plan p. 36

competitor

50 Men’s apparel

OF THE BEST GIFT IDEAS FOR RUNNERS

p. 60

Newton Kismet p. 50

Deena Kastor / Shalane Flanagan

RECORDS BROKEN

P. 12, 22

and Dennis Kimetto’s new 26.2 record

These are the 107 things we can’t live without this holiday season. For expanded Gift Guide coverage, visit competitor.com. 201411_Cover.indd 1

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Photos: James Cassimus

Justin Galloway

2014 Holiday Gift Guide

107

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE // RUN A TURKEY TROT // FREE STAY-FIT-THROUGH-THE-HOLIDAYS TRAINING PLAN

Go Pro Hero 4

Competitor | NOVEMBER 2014

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There’s a coach in every watch. Meet the GPS running watches with coaching features so dialed-in, they might know your abilities better than you do. 220 gives you essential running data like distance, pace and heart rate. The 620 adds a touchscreen, VO2 max estimating and a recovery advisor. And when you pair 620 with HRM-Run you have access to advanced running form coaching data like cadence, vertical oscillation and ground contact time. Both 220 and 620 are compatible with free training plans from Garmin Connect™, which you can send to your watch, for real-time coaching. To learn more, visit Garmin.com/ForerunnerCoach

Forerunner 220 | 620 ®

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CONTENTS

CLICK HERE to find a race in our online calendar!

NOVEMBER 2014

WARM UP

BACK PAGE

FUEL

departments 10

• Marathon Meb

Editor’s Letter

How to keep a spring in your stride during the holidays.

• Training

Captured

That moment when you realize you’ve just broken a world record.

Starting Lines • Warm Up

We look at why Thanksgiving is one of the biggest running days in America, and offer tips on acing your Turkey Trot. We also talk Berlin with Shalane Flanagan and run the rule over Dennis Kimetto’s world-record-setting marathon. Plus, we can’t take our eyes off of Maggie Vessey’s track apparel, and we look back to some of the most iconic outfits from the past.

America’s best marathoner (and our resident columnist) explains why he’s extra thankful this year. Tips and a plan to help you stay fit through the holidays, performance advice from Deena Kastor on training into your 40s, how to travel in style for destination racing, and Alan Culpepper explains how to manage your off-season.

Destination

We run San Diego County and tell you why you’ll love it as much as we do.

Your Region

Local knowledge on faces, places, where to run and mustdo races.

• Gear

Three new shoes debut at the New York City Marathon’s expo and then hit stores nationwide. • Fuel

Try our delicious, healthy soup recipe for fall, plus check out the calorie count of your Thanksgiving spread dish by dish—along with our tailored training tips for burning it off. And get an inside look at what’s in a package of one of the new flavors of Gu.

BACK PAGE

I’m a Competitor

Singer and actress Jana Kramer on mandatory runs for her band, her favorite place to run, and why she doesn’t listen to music while working out.

You could win this GoPro Hero 4! We’re giving away a brand-new GoPro Hero 4 (as seen on our cover and in our Holiday Gift Guide on Page 60) to one lucky reader! For contest rules, visit Competitor.com/GoProContest.

COMPETITOR | NOVEMBER 2014

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SOME THOUGHT WE WERE CRAZY TO INVENT AN OVERSIZED RUNNING SHOE BUT IT’S CRAZY FOR A REASON BECAUSE CRAZY ISN’T CRAZY CRAZY IS SMART CRAZY CAN’T GET ENOUGH CRAZY IS CHANGING THE GAME CRAZY IS CONTAGIOUS CRAZY NEVER QUITS CRAZY LIVES THE DREAM

The Bondi 3. 50% more cushioning material than standard running shoes. Ultra light. Smooth, stable ride. Learn more at hokaoneone.com

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Editor’sLetter

’Tis the Season

6 ways to keep a spring in your stride during the holidays. Run a local charity-based race. It’s easy to find a race

or group run from a running store that donates canned goods, warm clothing or money to local charities that help the homeless.

Donate your shoes. If you’re ready to ditch the trainers you’ve

been running in all year, don’t let them wind up in a landfill. Instead, donate them to a local race, running shop or organization that will get them to people in need. (Go to competitor.com/donateshoes for info.)

Give the gift of running. Check out the drool-worthy gear

in our Holiday Gift Guide (Page 48), but try to remember that the holidays are about giving first and “oh, I should buy one of those for myself” a distant second. Want to give a real gift to someone? Take them for a run!

Run with the turkeys. Read Susan Lacke’s funny piece about running a Turkey Trot with family members (Page 17) and consider inviting a sibling, parent, nephew, aunt, cousin, in-law or friend out to the nearest 5K on Thanksgiving morning. Only good will come of it, even if you fall asleep watching football or listening to your in-laws blabber later that day. Stay in shape. Read “9 Stay-Fit Tips for the Holidays” (Page 32)

and the training plan that follows (Page 36) to avoid falling prey to holiday weight gain, missing workouts or becoming a pie-eating sloth.

Plan for next year. Now is the time to start planning for

2015. Which races do you really want to do? The running-related trip you want to take? Do you want to run a new PR in the half marathon next May? Run an ultra-distance race in August? None of it will happen without a plan. The time is now to start the process.

Bri a n M etzler, E d itor-i n-Chi ef

competitor Editorial

Editor-in-chief Brian Metzler Senior Editor Mario Fraioli Managing Editor Adam Elder Web Editor Ryan Wood Associate Editor Caitlyn Pilkington Editorial assistant Emily Polachek Senior contributing editors Allison Pattillo, Jason Devaney Contributing editors Courtney Baird, Jeff Banowetz, Giannina Smith Bedford, Sarah Wassner Flynn, Julie Kailus, Duncan Larkin, Mackenzie Lobby Contributing Writers John Bingham, Alan Culpepper, Jay Dicharry, Dan England, Scott Jurek, Max King, Susan Lacke, Linzay Logan, Amanda McCracken, Greg McMillan, Kelly O’Mara, Claire Trageser, Peter Vigneron

art

Photo Editor Scott Draper Graphic Designer Valerie Brugos Contributing Artists/Photographers Matt Collins, Neil Numberman, Victor Sailer, Brad Walters

Circulation & Production

Production Manager Meghan McElravy Advertising Production Manager Gia Hawkins Audience Development Manager Cassie Chavez product innovation MANAGER Aaron Hersh

digital services

VP, Digital services Dan Vaughan Director, Web Development Scott Kirkowski Director, SEO/Analytics Johnny Yeip associate Director, Web Design Matthew McAlexander Web Developers Grace Cupat, Joey Hernandez Web Designers James Longhini, Thomas Phan, Justin Wilson system administrator Bruno Breve Senior Video Producer Steve Godwin

Advertising

SVP, media Sales Manager Doug Kaplan • 312-421-1551, dkaplan@competitorgroup.com SVP, Partnership Sales Mark Buntz • 858-768-6460, mbuntz@competitorgroup.com VP, regional Partnership Sales Molly Quinn • 858-768-6468, mquinn@competitorgroup.com Director, Partnership Sales Melissa Zavislak • 858-768-6789, mzavislak@competitorgroup.com VP, NATIONAL Sales Ian Sinclair • 860-673-6830, isinclair@competitorgroup.com VP, national Sales Susie Miller • 310-463-5837, smiller@competitorgroup.com National Endemic Sales Alex Jarman • 858-768-6769, ajarman@competitorgroup.com National Endemic Sales Jeff McDowell • 858-768-6794, jmcdowell@competitorgroup.com National Endemic Sales Justin Sands • 858-768-6747, jsands@competitorgroup.com National Endemic Sales Gordon Selkirk • 858-768-6767, gselkirk@competitorgroup.com events senior Sales Kelly Trimble • 858-768-6749, ktrimble@competitorgroup.com east senior Sales Michael Proulx • 860-919-3448, mproulx@competitorgroup.com Northwest senior Sales Daemon Filson • 541.292.1450, dfilson@competitorgroup.com Midwest Regional Sales Tom Borda • 312-421-1551, tborda@competitorgroup.com southwest Regional Sales Richard Hurd • 512-364-1703, rhurd@competitorgroup.com east Regional Sales Dave Ragsdale • 561-838-9060, dragsdale@competitorgroup.com Rocky Mountains Regional Sales Matt Steinberg • 303-525-6702, msteinberg@competitorgroup.com

PARTNERSHIP MARKETING VICE PRESIDENT Sean Clottu Director Jennifer Sugarman Manager Erin Ream Graphic Designer Marc Mejia Coordinator Liz Centeno-Vera

Finance

Controller, Media Gretchen Alt

Coming in December

We run the Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast on the Hawaiian island of Kauai with top-tier ultrarunners Stephanie Howe and Sage Canaday, offer an insider’s look at the trail running scene on Mount Tamalpais north of San Francisco, explore social running trends and offer tips on how to train through the winter.

Get a Free Subscription! Go to competitor.com/digital and sign up for a free subscription to the digital edition of our magazine. In addition to what you’ll find in the printed edition, you’ll get more stories and photos, plus links to cool videos, photo galleries and other related content. 10

SVP, group publisher Kurt Hoy a publication of

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER David N. Abeles CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Barrett Garrison Chief Revenue Officer Bill Pedigo Chief marketing Officer Keith Kendrick Executive VICE PRESIDENT, global events division Josh Furlow SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, SALES John Smith 9477 Waples Street, Suite 150, San Diego, CA 92121 • 858-450-6510 For distribution inquiries: 858-768-6493 Digital Issue support: support@zinio.com Distribution management: TGS Media Inc. • tgsmedia.com, 877-847-4621 No part of this issue may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. Competitor is a registered trademark of Competitor Group Inc.

A Member of official magazine

Competitor | november 2014

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captured

ere Click h hotos p re o m for year’s is th m fro Roll Rock ’n’ hia lp e d a il h P race!

Competitor | november 2014

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Dominant Deena

Deena Kastor Left No Emotion to the imagination when she set a new masters half-marathon world record in 1 hour, 9 minutes, 36 seconds—smashing the previous mark by 20 seconds—at the Sept. 21 Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon. Along the way, Kastor, the 2004 Olympic bronze medalist in the marathon, broke three other masters world records—15K, 10-mile and 20K— along with her own masters American half-marathon record (1:11:38). Ecstatic coming down the homestretch, she was greeted with a roaring, energized crowd and race crew, who handed her an American flag after she crossed the finish line. Kastor plans to run the New York City Marathon on Nov. 2 and has her sights set on the U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon in 2016. Photos by victor sailer/Photorun.net competitor.com

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Find more stories, photos and videos online at Competitor.com

Connect With Us

Train the Right Way

Find the perfect training plan, use our pace calculators and other tools, get strength-training advice and pick up tips from expert coaches at our one-stop shop for all things training. competitor.com/training

Get Started in Running

How often should you run? What kind of apparel do you need? What races should you sign up for? Our section strictly for beginners will get you started in this lifetime sport. competitor.com/beginner

Stay Sa f e

Join the conversation at facebook.com/ competitor.running

See what we share on Instagram: @RunCompetitor

Shoes and Gear

What are the hottest shoes on the market? Which cold-weather running gear should you buy? Get our expert advice on all different types of shoes and apparel. competitor.com/shoes

Make sure you stay safe out on your runs! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve teamed with self-defense expert Todd Williams to provide safety tips that will help you if you encounter danger. competitor.com/runsafer

Plan Your Next Running Trip

The U.S. is full of exciting travel destinations that can revolve around running. From memorable routes to top-notch races, check out some of the best places weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found at

competitor.com/travel

Competitor | november 2014

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Ghost 7

Lightweight ride. Cushioned landing.

ÂŠ2014 Brooks Sports, Inc.

brooksrunning.com/ghost7

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SET A GOAL. REACH IT. REPEAT. MARCH 20-22, 2015 Virginia Beach,VA ShamrockMarathon.com Party at the Beach Over 30,000 Runners Plenty of Yuengling Beer

Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Anthem Half Marathon TowneBank 8K Operation Smile Final Mile CHECK OUT OUR OTHER RACES AT JANDARACING.COM

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STARTING LINES INSIDE 17 WARM•UP 28 TRAINING 42 GEAR 44 FUEL

ICK HERE

CL san for more of Su mns! colu Lacke’s humor

TURKEY JERKIES

Give your cocky cousin a chance to prove his running superiority at his first trottin’ 5K—otherwise known as his first race ever.

Matt Collins

BY SUSAN LACKE THANKSGIVING IS THE BEST. Obviously, gluttony factors heavily into this greatness, but that isn’t the only thing. Thanksgiving is a time for friends and family—more importantly, it’s a time for alcohol with friends and family. How else are we supposed to tolerate each other for a four-day weekend? When libations come into play, people start to get a little braggy. “It can’t be that hard!” my kinfolk drunkenly insist when it comes to running and triathlon racing. “I bet I could do one tomorrow!” Luckily, Thanksgiving weekend provides ample opportunity for such a wager. As the biggest running holiday of the year, races are everywhere on Thanksgiving morning. You can’t throw a Jell-O mold without hitting a Turkey Trot. Every year, the order of events is the same.

If you’re coming to my house this year, be thankful for what to expect: • Succumb to peer pressure. A Turkey Trot tomorrow, you say? How hard could it be? After all, you once ran a 6-minute mile in high school. • Drink a beer to toast your new athletic endeavor. Heck, drink four! Instagram a picture of your empties: #carboloading. • Set a reasonable goal. Remind your family of your 6-minute mile in high school. Based on that, you expect to finish your 5K in about 18 minutes. Say 19, just

in case it takes you a while to get into “the zone.” • Don your stretchy pants on race morning. They’re not just for dinner anymore. • Do a quad stretch as your warm-up. It’s cool. You see it on the cover of running magazines all the time. • Be confident. It can compensate for any lack of training. That invincible feeling you have in the first 100 meters? Go with that. • Close gaps. You will not be passed by a 12-year-old. Do you hear me? You will not.

COMPETITOR.COM

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STARTING LINES

WARM•UP

• Check in. Between gasps, ask a fellow runner how far you’ve run. Keep a straight face when she tells you there’s still two and a half miles to go. • Save face. Slow down to point dramatically at your timepiece— “Can you believe this?!?”— until you catch your breath. Or “tie your shoe.” Or “stretch” a “cramping muscle.” Ignore the 12-year-old laughing at you as she blazes by. • Hydrate! Never slow down at an aid station. Between heaving breaths, gulp down two cups of Gatorade, and throw a third over your head like a champ. A sticky, lime-scented champ. • Stay strong. Resist the urge to die, duck out to the car, and/or murder the person who suckered you into racing. Didn’t she know you were under the influence when you agreed to this? • Hang on to delusions of grandeur. You will totally run the third mile in 6 minutes. Totally. The “second wind” is real, and it is coming.

• Eat. Running burns, like, a thousand calories a minute. You pretty much have free license to eat anything you want, up to and including an entire pie. In fact, for the next six weeks, you should remind people between bites of Christmas cookies: “I just ran a race. Yup, gotta fuel my raging metabolism.” • Buy new stretchy pants. Your old ones don’t fit anymore, and you need a new pair for your next race anyway. It’s your New Year’s Resolution. You’re totally going to run 6-minute miles at that half marathon.

NEED A REASON TO TROT THIS TURKEY DAY? HERE ARE OURS: 1. MOTIVATION.

Worried about winter weight gain? Sign up for a Turkey Trot and vow to stay fit through the holiday eating.

2. TRADITION.

Make the festive 5K an annual affair with family and friends (if it isn’t already!) before football and food.

3. ATMOSPHERE.

Thanksgiving Day is one of the most popular roadracing days of the year, with an estimated 870,000 participants. Enjoy the good cheer!

Rich Cruse

• Sprint like hell. OK, so you walked the third mile. But when you see the finish line, you better haul it. Make sure to gloat when you pass people in the finishing chute. Perhaps perform a crotch-chop for emphasis of your badassery.

O'side Turkey Trot, Oceanside, Calif.

COMPETITOR | NOVEMBER 2014

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DUANE SOLOMON | US Olympian – 800 m | Team Saucony Athlete

STARTING LINES

WARM•UP

THE GREAT DAY OF RUNNING Think Thanksgiving is a day for football, overeating and relaxation? OK, you’re

How the Pros Spend Thanksgiving

distance, also have ties to food banks, homeless shelters and other related charity programs that tug at heartstrings. Often, families use the holiday season to get their children involved, and family fun runs are a great outlet for that. It’s also not a bad way to burn some extra calories after a large second helping!

”

—Rich Harshbarger, CEO of Running USA

TOP 5 TURKEY TROTS BY PARTICIPATION (2013)

From 2008 to 2013, the number of Turkey Trot finishers have more than

Turkey Trots are the original theme runs. “ So many of these events, regardless of

DOUBLED.

right. But it’s also one of the most significant running days on the calendar—the numbers don’t lie.

Americans ran 3.4 million miles in Turkey Trot races on Thanksgiving Day in 2013

—Jenny Simpson, two-time U.S. Olympian and 2011 world champion in the 1,500-meter run.

Thanksgiving Day finisher totals* “I did my first Turkey Trot this past Thanksgiving, a trail race that a bunch of us [in Bowerman Track Club] did. We said we were just going to have some fun—but then each person slowly picked up the pace just a little bit, and it turned into an all-out sprint in the last hundred meters. We’ve made our lives out of being competitive, and it’s hard to turn it off sometimes!”

1. DALLAS: Capital One Bank Dallas YMCA 5K, 8 mile (30,150) 2. SACRAMENTO: Run to Feed the Hungry 5K, 10K (24,706) 3. DETROIT: Fifth Third Bank Mile, 5K, 10K (20,204) 4. AUSTIN: ThunderCloud Subs 5K, 1K (19,729) 5. SAN JOSE: Applied Materials 5K, 10K (19,320)

“After a disappointing NCAA crosscountry championships my senior year at the University of Colorado in 2009, my future husband convinced me to run the local Turkey Trot with him. It was a total blast—quickly the shame of NCAAs melted as I experienced the communal atmosphere that draws so many of us to the sport in the first place!”

*118% FINISHER INCREASE FROM 2008 TO 2013

The five-year increase of Turkey Trot events nationwide 20

Top 10 states for Thanksgiving Day finishers (2013)

8 10

2 Source: Running USA powered by Athlinks

“My family has a somewhat unique Thanksgiving tradition. On Thanksgiving we get up early and do an arduous hike in the foothills to an old abandoned gold mine, where we scour for fortune. Nothing better for family bonding than sharing gold fever!” —Rory Bosio, ultrarunner, UltraTrail du Mont-Blanc winner, 2013 and 2014

From top: photorun.net(2); Michel Cottin

—Chris Solinsky, former American record holder, 10,000m

COMPETITOR | NOVEMBER 2014

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MOLLY HUDDLE | American Record Holder â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5000 m | Team Saucony Athlete

STARTING LINES

WARM•UP

RECORD-SETTING RACE: A RECAP OF THE 2014 BERLIN MARATHON ON THE POTENTIAL OF A SUB-2-HOUR MEN'S MARATHON …

ON 2015 RACING GOALS …

“The fact that they think about it in their training and that I never thought I’d see the day that someone breaks 2:03, I truly believe that if they think they can, they can. It was pretty exciting to hear that kind of discussion in Berlin.”

ON SNAGGING THE 25K AMERICAN RECORD …

“I did run a really great 30K, I ran great until really the last 8K before the wheels started to fall apart. It’s a reward for some good, hard work early on, so I would call it a good overall consolation prize.”

ON LESSONS LEARNED IN BERLIN …

“I feel like I’ve been in great shape to run some really great half marathons, but I’ve always had marathon buildup legs, so I can’t necessarily execute a great fast half marathon. So maybe the halfmarathon record would be something to look at and even the 10K record on the roads.”

CLICK HERE

for the full interview with Shalane Flanagan!

“Toward the end I started to compete for second after I lost sight of first. I thought, I can get second, and I started going into surges after I told myself not to do that prior to the race. But I just couldn’t help myself once I saw the record slip. So I went from running a 2:20 marathon to a 2:21:14 literally in the last 2K, which is unfortunate.”

ON RETHINKING WORKOUT STRATEGIES IN 2015 …

“I tend to run a lot of my workouts, because they are so long, at a very even pace—I save the racing part for the race. But maybe I need to start focusing on closing harder at the end of workouts, and that will translate to the races. The men did it in Berlin, so I know it can be done, but I know I need to practice it more. I need to do more simulators in practice, where I’m doing long endurance running but really closing hard at the end.”

ON POSTBERLIN SPLURGING …

“I’m obsessed with pastries—I think there was one day where I just ate pastries and no real food. Being in Europe, there’s some really good ones, so I was basically taste testing all over!”

HOW FAST IS WORLD-RECORD PACE?

At the Berlin Marathon on Sept. 28, DENNIS KIMETTO of Kenya became the new world-record holder with a time of 2:02:57, shattering the old mark by 26 seconds. How fast did he cover 26.2 miles? We crunched the numbers.

• Kimetto could have run two marathons in the time it takes the average marathon finisher in the U.S. to complete one (4:16) and still have a few minutes for a brief cool-down.

• In the time it took Kimetto to tour Berlin, you could have flown direct from there to Athens or London. * ON A 400-METER TRACK, KIMETTO’S PERFORMANCE IS EQUIVALENT TO RUNNING 105 CONSECUTIVE LAPS AT 69.93 SECONDS PER LAP.

• Kimetto’s second halfmarathon split of 61:12 would have won the 2014 U.S. half marathon championships by

11 SECONDS.

• KIMETTO MAINTAINED AN AVERAGE SPEED OF 12.81 MILES PER HOUR FOR 2 HOURS, 2 MINUTES AND 57 SECONDS. FOR THE AVERAGE AMERICAN, THAT’S A PRETTY GOOD BIKE RIDE!

American Dream

Check out the full interview with Shalane Flanagan at competitor.com/shalaneinterview 22

CLICK HERE

for more information on marathon world record holder Dennis Kimetto!

photorun.net(2)

Finishing less than 2 minutes shy of Deena Kastor’s American marathon record, SHALANE FLANAGAN nabbed another American mark with her 2:21:14 PR performance: the 25K record. Bonus points: Her marathon time dubs her the second-fastest American female marathoner ever. With the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon on the horizon, we checked in with the Team USA hopeful on things learned in Berlin, goals to look forward to and just how good European pastries are for a recovering marathoner. –Caitlyn Pilkington

COMPETITOR | NOVEMBER 2014

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BEN TRUE | 5x US Road Race Champion | Team Saucony Athlete

Starting Lines

warm•up

A flashy legacy

Maggie Vessey isn’t the first athlete to flaunt eye-catching garments and accessories on the track. Track fashion has evolved over the years, reflecting the style influences of its time—and in some cases, becoming as iconic as the athlete who wears it.

Track Suit Hoodie

Hurdler Roger Kingdom wore the first hooded tracksuit designed to be more aerodynamic for Team USA at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea. He won gold in the 110-meter hurdles.

heads with her in-vogue racing kits. By Emily Polachek Chanel, Luis Vuitton

and Juicy Couture are no longer just for Fashion Week runways. Pro middle-distance runner Maggie Vessey, who moonlights as a fashion designer, sported a creatively cut blue, yellow and orange one-piece, Juicy Couture aviators and Chanel earrings during the 800-meter

one for the preliminaries, one for the semifinals and the blinged-out look for the finals. “From my perspective as an athlete that’s trying to do their part to help grow the sport, I like that I can do something different to show the individuality of each athlete, to rally a fan base and have people become

“When you’re trying to do something different and bold, nothing goes without somebody scrutinizing what you’re doing.” — Maggie Vessey finals at the U.S. outdoor track and field championships this past June in Sacramento, Calif. The added glitz and attention didn’t seem to weigh down the runner, however—she finished in fourth place. The 32-year-old has garnered plenty of attention around her colorful, chic and high-fashion-inspired outfits worn during her 2014 races. Vessey showed three different looks during her time in Sacramento (pictured above)— 24

more excited and interested in track and field,” Vessey says. After ending a four-year sponsorship with New Balance in January, the fashionista partnered with Los Angelesbased designer Merlin Castell to combine her two passions—running and fashion. Together, Vessey and Castell bring each outfit to life, from sketches on paper to fabulous skintight Lycra flying around a track. Although Vessey’s designs have received enormous

positive feedback, critics fail to praise the runner for her unique approach to uniforms, instead encouraging her to hide “distracting” short tan lines. “When you’re trying to do something different and bold, nothing goes without somebody scrutinizing what you’re doing,” she explains. Vessey’s speedy comeback after being injured for most of the 2013 season is earning her just as much attention as the outfits on her back. She won the 400-meter dash at the Los Angeles Occidental Invite in May, clocking a 52.85 PR. A week later she ran 1:59.96 for 800 meters at the USATF High Performance Distance Classic, her fastest time since 2011. Combined with her flashy presence on the track, Vessey’s blistering times are bringing more eyes to the sport as she looks toward the 2015 IAAF World Championships and 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials. “If there’s great running, then there’s great running and a colorful kit will be secondary to that,” she says.

The One-Legged uniform

The late Florence Griffith Joyner, aka "Flo Jo," donned a one-legged body suit at the 1988 U.S. Olympic Trials in Indianapolis, where she ran 100 meters in an eye-popping 10.49 seconds—shattering the world record and earning her the title “fastest woman of all time.”

Feet of Gold

Legendary sprinter Michael Johnson broke both the 200-meter and 400-meter world records while wearing gold spikes designed by Nike at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. There was so much hype around both his feats and feet on the track that the shoes made it onto the cover of TIME magazine.

Furry Flight

Five-time Olympic high jumper Amy Acuff shocked spectators in her gray fur two-piece designed by Anne Klein at the 1999 Millrose Games in New York.

Glasses of the Future

Ato Boldon, a four-time Olympic medalist for Trinidad and Tobago, sported the appropriately named Overthetop Oakley sunglasses during the men’s 4x100 relay semifinals at the 2000 Olympic Games.

From left: photorun.net(3); Courtesy of IOPP

Functional Fashion Free of sponsor ties, trackster Maggie Vessey is turning

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WHOA. – Triumph | ISO •SERIES –

Light, responsive and oh so comfortable. Step into a pair and feel whoa for yourself. | SAUCONY.COM/ISOSERIES

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warm•up

Click here

to read about The Mystique of Meb!

[ Marathon meb ]

Thoughts on Giving Thanks By Meb Keflezighi

3Meb Keflezighi is the only runner in history to win both the New York City Marathon and Boston Marathon and earn an Olympic medal. This is the fourth installment of his new "Marathon Meb" column for Competitor. Follow along each month in the magazine and also find regular training tips and inspiration at competitor.com/runmeb.

photorun.net

Recently I met a runner who told me he had broken his foot while getting ready for the Chicago Marathon, and, because of his injury, he wasn’t able to train and would have to miss the race. Understandably he was disappointed, but he also told me that if he hadn’t broken his foot, he wouldn’t have as much of an appreciation for the times that he was healthy and able to train hard. There’s a great lesson that we can all learn from as runners: While we are all trying to improve, run a personal best and get to that finish line as fast as we can, we can’t take for granted that we have good health and able bodies. Sometimes it takes a setback, such as injury, to be thankful for the times when everything is clicking and going smoothly. It’s nice to be able to give thanks on the fourth Thursday of November, but it’s important to realize that every day is an opportunity to be thankful. Be thankful for the air you breathe, the food that’s on your table. Be thankful for the opportunity to run, whether it’s 1 mile, 10 miles or 15 miles. Often we take running for granted, and when it’s over, we just move on with our day. After a run, I like to take a few minutes to be thankful for my health, beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to inspire others through the gifts that have been given to me. This year, my Thanksgiving will be extra special. In the months since I won the Boston Marathon, a lot of people have come up to me and said, “Thank you. Thank you for what you have done.” They appreciate what I did for Boston and the United States on that day in April. For me, I feel that solidifies that I was put on this earth to touch people, to inspire them through running. I’ve achieved my personal goals of winning races and earning medals, but with Boston, people are appreciative on a deeper level beyond victory, and that makes it extra meaningful to me. When I reflect on the life I have, I sometimes wonder what it would be like if I hadn’t left Eritrea and came to the U.S. as young boy. Every year at Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for the opportunities my country has given me—for my family, my kids, my health and what I’ve been able to accomplish throughout my career. I’m thankful not just for what I have done, but also for what I can still do.

Competitor | november 2014

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CLICK HERE

for more training wisdom from

[ COACH CULPEPPER ]

Alan Culpepper!

MANAGING YOUR OFFSEASON Use time off to your advantage this winter.

BY ALAN CULPEPPER THERE IS NO SHORTAGE of dialogue on training, workouts, mileage, long runs, footwear, mechanics or cross-training, but taking downtime and resting after a fall marathon or long racing season is a topic that rarely gets discussed. A recovery period is valuable, but what does that look like? What should you do? And how much time off is appropriate? Recovery is key—our bodies need a break from the rigors of training in order for future improvement to take place. The key to this discussion is finding the right balance between time off and recovery without losing too much fitness.

POST-MARATHON

POST-RACING SEASON

really is nothing like it; I’ve found that most folks recover quicker from a full Ironman or ultra-distance event than they do from an intense marathon. There are plenty of reasons for this, but the recovery time needed after racing a hard marathon is definitely longer than any other race. Two to three weeks off—meaning no running whatsoever, or just a few miles every 4-5 days—is a good standard. During this period, I also advocate a minimal amount of cross-training, maybe a light swim or spin once every 3-4 days. Earlier in my competitive career, I took three weeks off without even thinking about it. As I got older, I shortened that period of no running to two weeks and slowed my progression back into training. I was more likely to get injured if I took three full weeks off; most people falter in the first few weeks of returning to training.

include a marathon, you can take your rest as an active recovery period. Unlike the marathon, there is no need for multiple weeks off, and cross-training during this period is a great idea. You need to de-emphasize the harder running-specific workouts, but keep active and continue to include some running in your routine. Mixing cross-training and some running (about 50 percent of your highest weekly mileage during the competitive season) is a good combo. Taking a two-month period to just enjoy running without the physical (and mental) burden of intense workouts is a great way to recover during the off-season. Crosstraining lessens the stress on the body but allows for continued aerobic and muscular benefit. Gym work with weights, lower intensity spinning or elliptical workouts or moderate swimming along with easy running is a good combination for this two-month period during the winter. From there, you can build your mileage back up by 15 percent each week and start to include harder workouts again.

A COUPLE OF MISTAKES TEND TO HAPPEN DURING THE NEXT PHASE: 1. Runners jump right back into training too aggressively and risk injury. 2. Runners build up too slowly and miss the opportunity to build off the fitness they developed during marathon preparation. THE KEY IS BALANCE: You need to build back into your training slowly to avoid injury, but you also want to continue capitalizing on your fitness. Your initial focus should be on building mileage back up, not as much on doing faster workouts. Your first week should be about 40 percent of your biggest training week during your marathon preparation. If you ran upward of 50 miles a week during training, you should start back up around 20 miles per week. From there, you can increase your volume by about 15 percent each week. After four weeks of mileage, start reintroducing speed workouts; one faster workout a week until you reach your maximum weekly volume is enough. The focus is on gaining your strength back, ensuring you stay injury-free and preparing to focus on another specific training block. Ideally you want to get to full volume first, then add the workouts. This will prevent your fitness level from plateauing over and over again.

kAfter finishing up a racing season that doesn’t

3Running coach and two-time U.S. Olympian ALAN CULPEPPER is a vice president and race director for the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series. For more of his coaching insights, go to competitor.com/culpepper.

istockphoto.com

kThe toll the marathon takes on the body is unmatched by any other event. There

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LOVE YOUR SPORTS BRA? YOU SHOULD. THE BRA YOU DESERVE IS HERE.

MOVINGCOMFORT.COM / #MOVINGCOMFORT

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While compression socks can stimulate circulation and add warmth, you're only as fast as you feel.

CMY

Will Compression Socks Make Me Faster?

Compression socks deliver graduated pressure—they’re tighter around the foot and ankle than they are around the calf— which helps improve circulation in the surrounding muscles and pushes blood back toward the heart. In fact, athletic compression socks were inspired by similar socks made for elderly patients suffering from poor circulation in their lower legs. For runners, increasing the blood flow to your legs helps speed up the healing process after a hard run. 3Mario Fraioli is the author of The Official Rock 'n' Roll Guide to Marathon and Half-Marathon Training (VeloPress, 2013) and coach of 2012 Olympic marathoner César Lizano.

Ryan Bethke

The short answer is probably not, even though plenty of fast runners can be seen wearing them on the starting line. Scientific studies have failed to validate the performance benefits of compression socks, but the tight-fitting garments will keep your lower legs under wraps, literally, promoting blood circulation and keeping muscles warm. The snug fit can also provide positive psychological effects, helping your legs feel sleeker, a little leaner and, as a result, perhaps a little bit faster. Whether or not they actually make you faster in a race, compression socks will aid in the all-important recovery process after a long race or tough workout. Competitor | november 2014

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STAY-FIT TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS BY MARIO FRAIOLI

EVERY YEAR, the last week of November represents something of an invisible cliff for even the most active person, and for the next six weeks or so, our fitness falls at a fast pace amid an influx of holiday parties and social gatherings until it’s time to make a resolution to start working out again at the turn of the year. But what if you resolved right now to not let yourself get to that point come Turkey Day? Here are nine top tips for maintaining a strong baseline level of fitness through the new year—all you need is the desire to keep fit and 30 to 60 minutes a day.

A 2 GRAB BUDDY.

kAs athletes, it’s natural to set big outcome goals for ourselves (lose weight, set a personal best, qualify for Boston, etc.); the trouble with this is the end result is largely out of our control. The holiday season is a great time of year to focus on process goals—smaller, actionable items you can check off your list daily that will help bring you closer to your outcome goals. Examples include: work out for 30 minutes daily, do 10 pushups every morning, get to bed by 10 every night, lift weights twice a week … the list continues. Focus on executing your process goals this holiday season, and chances are you’ll be happy with the end result. 32

A 3 ESTABLISH ROUTINE.

kRunning around to holiday parties, visiting friends and traveling to see family can make it easy to fall out of rhythm, but establishing a consistent weekly routine to follow can help keep you on track amid the chaos. Assign a specific focus to each day of the week— even the rest days—and carve out 30 to 60 minutes to run or work out at the same time every day. No exceptions, no excuses. Use the sample schedule on page 36 as a guide for setting up your own holiday workout routine.

istockphoto.com(3)

PROCESS 1 SET GOALS.

kThe holidays are a great time to catch up with out-of-town friends who might be home visiting their own families for a few days. What better way to make the most of your time together than by going for a run? Or pushing one another through a tough strengthtraining workout? Not only can you catch up on a lot of things over the course of 30 to 60 minutes, but you’ll also be doing something good for yourselves too.

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5 PLAN AHEAD.

UP THE 4 CRANK INTENSITY ONCE A WEEK.

kSticking to a schedule of highly structured speed workouts can be tough at the end of the year, and many runners use that as an excuse to only log easy miles until spring rolls back around. Winter running doesn’t have to be all slow and boring, however. Once a week, crank up the intensity of one of your running workouts with a short, fast interval session on the roads or a progression run on the treadmill. Not only will these types of workouts break up the monotony of running easy all the time, but they will also give your fitness level a quick boost and set you up to start the new year off in better shape than ever before.

kTraveling to visit family or friends and not sure when you’ll be able to run or work out? Do your research ahead of time and scope out popular running routes where you’ll be heading, or confirm that your hotel or host family has a treadmill or workout area you can take advantage of for 30 to 60 minutes a day. Let those you’re visiting (or that are visiting you) know ahead of time you’re planning to work out—heck, even encourage them to join you! If you announce your intentions ahead of time, it will create the time and space you need, but it will also create an added level of accountability to actually get off the couch!

6 AVOID TEMPTATION.

kIt’s easy to get carried away at a loaded buffet table, which is why it’s important to know what you’re in for and plan ahead prior to holiday happy hours, Thanksgiving dinner and the like. Avoid the temptation to overdo it when the options in front of you are aplenty. While it’s OK to allow yourself to splurge on drinks and dessert every once in a while, don’t allow it to become a regular habit. Going to two parties on the same night? Eat dinner at the first and save room for dessert at the next. Finding a healthy balance is the easiest way to sidestep the lure of holiday food.

8CROSS-TRAIN.

kSpending the money to join a gym toward the end of the year isn’t always a reasonable investment, but there’s no reason to dismiss a once- or twice-aweek routine of functional strength and mobility exercises that will help improve strength, burn fat and ward off injuries. Check out Competitor On Demand for a series of instructional how-to strengthtraining and stretching videos you can use to create your own routine at home. No gym—or even weights—required! competitor.com/ondemand 34

EASY ON THE 9 GO ALCOHOL.

kCatching up with friends over a cold pint or sharing a bottle of wine with family from out of town is a fun way to celebrate the season, but excessively imbibing over a short period of time is one of the main reasons people pack on unwanted pounds. Limit yourself to one drink at holiday gatherings and have your next day’s workout in mind before the reverly begins.

istockphoto.com(6)

ADOPT AN AT-HOME, 7 STRENGTH-TRAINING CIRCUIT.

kWith the exception of your annual turkey trot or other festive events, the holiday season is usually a slow time for racing, which can be a welcome relief between a busy fall season and the upcoming spring campaign. Want to remain active and fit but just not feeling up for a run? No problem. Thirty to 60 minutes of aerobic non-running activity, such as swimming, a spin class or boot camp, can be a great way to replace a handful of your running miles during the off-season and give your body and mind a break from pounding the pavement.

COMPETITOR | NOVEMBER 2014

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world record adizero adios boost 2.0

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8-Week â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stay Fit Through The Holidaysâ&#x20AC;? Training Plan Week

Find more training plans at

competitor.com/ondemand

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

REST

Run: 30:00 easy

Crosstraining: 40:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Intervals: 15:00 warm-up, 5 x 1:00 hard/1:00 easy, 10:00 cool-down

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 40:00 easy

Run: 60:00 w/ last 10 at moderate effort

REST

Run: 35:00 easy

Crosstraining: 50:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Progression Run: 15:00 warm-up, 10:00 steady, 5:00 fast, 10:00 cooldown

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 45:00 easy

Run: 60:00 easy

REST

Run: 40:00 easy

Crosstraining: 60:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Intervals: 10:00 warm-up, 5 x 2:00 hard/2:00 easy, 10:00 cool-down

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 40:00 easy

Run: 60:00 w/ last 15 at moderate effort

REST

Run: 45:00 easy

Crosstraining: 40:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Progression Run: 15:00 warm-up, 20:00 steady, 10:00 cool-down

Crosstraining: 30:00

Run: 45:00 easy

Run: 30:00 easy

REST

Run: 30:00 easy

Crosstraining: 50:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Intervals: 15:00 warm-up, 5 x 3:00 hard/2:00 easy, 10:00 cool-down

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 40:00 easy

Run: 60:00 w/ last 20 at moderate effort

REST

Run: 35:00 easy

Crosstraining: 60:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Progression Run: 10:00 warm-up, 10:00 steady, 10:00 fast, 10:00 cooldown

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 45:00 easy

Run: 60:00 easy

REST

Run: 40:00 easy

Crosstraining: 60:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Intervals: 10:00 warm-up, 5 x 4:00 hard/2:00 easy, 10:00 cool-down

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 40:00 easy

Run: 60:00 w/ last 30 at moderate effort

REST

Run: 45:00 easy

Crosstraining: 40:00 or Strength Training: 30:00

Progression Run: 10:00 warm-up, 30:00 steady, 10:00 cooldown

Strength Training: 30:00

Run: 45:00 easy

Run: 30:00 easy

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Competitor | november 2014

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RUN WITH CONFIDENCE THIS WINTER

1.866.YAKTRAX | WWW.YAKTRAX.COM

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three pieces of training advice from the master: 1. Maintain quality workouts. “I still do mile repeats, tempo runs and quality long runs. On top of resting well, I am also innately happy with my life. When there is joy, there is success.” 2. Ditch the “junk miles.” “Since having my daughter, Piper, three years ago, I have cut my mileage considerably. I used to run 120 to 140 miles a week consistently. Now, I run 80 miles a week with a couple 110-mile weeks leading up to marathons.”

For 41-year-old Olympian Deena Kastor, age is just a number. The American marathon-record holder added the masters world half-marathon record to her résumé on Sept. 21, clocking a swift 1:09:36 at the Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia Half Marathon. Despite lingering doubts, Kastor once again impressed the crowd with her ageless competitive nature and drive—and for the wife and mother of one, she says prioritizing family over miles is her secret to success. –Caitlyn Pilkington

[ S p e e d R e a d ing ]

Books Worth Resting For

Pose for Me

• Nearly 80 percent of all runners

suffer an injury every year, a statistic for which the running industry has produced an endless number of shoes, orthotics and other corrective measures to aid in the healing and preventive processes. Amid the proliferating array of recent books and programs focusing on running technique as a cure-all, Dr. Nicholas Romanov,

3. Sleep. “I think I have more energy now, even though I have more obligations. I think this is a combination of lowering my mileage, staying on top of great nutrition and making sure I sleep about 10 hours each night…more if I can!”

creator of The Pose Method, was way ahead of the curve—suggesting that a forefoot-strike style is the platonic ideal of running form. In his latest book, The Running Revolution ($17, posemethod.com) the Soviettrained sports physiologist offers in-depth instruction on transitioning to a forefoot strike, as well as advice on the correct footwear, proper stretching techniques and weaning off wedge-sole

shoes and orthotics, along with training plans and a healthy dose of testimonies from newly injury-free runners. Despite his scientific background and method, it’s breezily written and full of straightforward photos and diagrams. As polarizing as running gurus often are, Romanov’s new book is nonetheless a useful addition to any serious or recreational runner's library. –Adam Elder

Top photo: photorun.net

Master Tips

Competitor | november 2014

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competitor competitor

TRAVEL TIPS FOR DESTINATION RACING There’s plenty to consider when traveling to a race. By Jason Devaney

What are some must-have items when traveling to a race?

Katherine Hopper: “I have a packing list that I use every time I travel for racing. The list includes all of my travel basics plus some racespecific necessities.” Hofheimer: “When I travel for a race, I always pack my foam roller and massage stick. I am a big list maker, and I put even the most obvious items on my list so I don’t forget a thing (socks, shoes, etc.). I always make sure to bring a few race-day outfit choices, something to change into after the race, my camera, my watch and its charger.”

How many days out should a runner travel? Hopper: “If I’m going to be changing time zones, I like to travel at least 2-3 days ahead of time to let my body adjust. If I’m taking a weeklong trip, I like to plan to have my race at the front end of the trip so that I can relax afterward.”

Hofheimer: “Ideally, I would love to arrive at my destination with at

least one full day before my race, more if there is a time change. That’s not always possible, but it is so helpful.”

What other tips do you have for the traveling runner?

Gonzalez: “Stretch as often as you can when you are traveling. Get up and walk the aisles on the flight or make a few pit stops to walk around if you are driving—which you’ll probably have to do anyway with all the water you will be drinking!” Hofheimer: “The two times I’ve run Boston, my good friend Meghan rented a little apartment for us. It was perfect because we could make our own food, we felt more at home and it cost a lot less.” Hopper: “If you’re traveling and racing with friends, make sure you decide ahead of time where you want to meet after the race.” 3Seventeen of the 26 members of the Saucony 26 Strong program will run the Honolulu Marathon on Dec. 14. For more, visit 26Strong.com.

Kyle LaFerriere Photography

Have you ever planned a vacation around a race, combining one day of racing with a few days of rest and relaxation? That’s destination racing in a nutshell. Destination racing is a hot commodity, with many runners escaping to warmer climates in the winter or taking off for a weekend in wine country with friends. The particularly adventurous might sign up for a race on an island—say, St. Croix—and make a vacation out of the trip. What’s better than finishing a race and spending a worry-free week with your toes in the sand? Even if the trip is a short getaway between Friday and Monday, however, there are plenty of added stress factors to consider when roaming to a race. “I typically travel for 1-2 races a training cycle; I’ve gone as far as New York City to Los Angeles, Texas to New York City and Texas to Boston,” says 26 Strong coach Michele Gonzalez. “In an ideal world, I would make them destination races, but with having kids and a husband back home, I try to minimize my time away. So I often just return the day of or day after the race.” Another 26 Strong coach, Jessica Hofheimer, has flown crosscountry several times for a race—she has even flown to the other side of the Atlantic to toe the line. “I have traveled for races a few times,” Hofheimer explains. “I’ve flown to Chicago and Boston twice for marathons, to the Seattle/ Portland area for the Hood to Coast relay, and most recently to Ireland for the Saucony Race to Kinvara. I’ve driven to races too, but never more than a few hours away and an overnight stay.” Regardless of your preference and comfort level of traveling, three 26 Strong coaches offer key advice for a successful run away from home.

Competitor | november 2014

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Looks like somebody’s been taking their Solgar NO. 7 ®

They increased their flexibility, mobility, and range of motion.* Even better, they improved joint comfort in just 7 days. * 1

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THE COM PLE TE LINE OF SOLGA R NUTR ITION A L SUPPLE M E NTS IS AVA IL A B LE AT FINE HE A LTH FOOD R E TA ILE RS WOR LDWIDE. FOR STOR E LOC ATIONS A ND A DDITION A L INFOR M ATION, VISIT SOLGA R .COM OR C A LL 1.80 0.645.2246 1. Based on two human studies with 5-LOXIN ® Advanced where subjects rated their joint health over time, subjects’ joint health improved within 7 days and continued to improve throughout the duration of the studies. 5-LOXIN ® is a registered trademark of P.L. Thomas-Laila Nutraceuticals LLC and is used under license. International patents pending. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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GEAR

New Kicks Every fall, shoe brands unveil new

shoes in time for the New York City Marathon race expo to create buzz within the running community. Here are a few new kicks that debuted in the Big Apple and will be in stores throughout the winter and spring. —Brian Metzler

Looking fo new shoes r ? Check out ou r fall reviews at competitor.c om/ shoes

• How do you improve on a classic after 20 years? ASICS replaced a layer of midsole foam with FluidRide, a lighter, more resilient cushioning material, and inserted a state-ofthe-art sock-liner that disperses moisture, reduces odor and promotes more energy return. It kept the best features—namely the Gel cushioning inserts throughout the midsole, the medial stability structure and the plush, enveloping fit—to create a shoe with a stable yet luxurious ride. 10.9 oz (men’s size 9), 8.9 oz (women’s size 7) 10mm heel-toe offset (22mm forefoot, 12mm heel)

2 Saucony Triumph 12, $150

• The neutral-oriented Triumph 12 has been completely overhauled with 20 percent more cushioning than the previous edition, and a more plush fit and ride. The key feature is Saucony’s new IsoFit technology—a wrap system in the upper that creates a nearcustom fit with a soft inner sleeve and a “floating” support cage that adapts to the precise shape and movement of the foot. The result is a locked-down fit and spongy-soft ride. 10.3 oz. (men’s size 9), 8.3 oz (women’s size 7) 8mm heel-toe offset (29mm forefoot, 21mm heel)

3 New Balance Fresh Foam Zante, $100 (shown in NYC Marathon colors)

• New Balance is unveiling its first shoe in decades named without a number—the lightweight Fresh Foam Zante. (It’s named after a beach in Greece!) This go-fast neutral trainer has a much lighter buildup than the original Fresh Foam 980 that debuted in early 2014, a softer ride, considerable toe spring and an interior bootie construction to keep the foot in place. It’s cushioned enough for long training runs, but light and nimble enough for racing and fast workouts. 7.5 oz (men’s size 9), 6.3 oz (women’s size 7) 6mm heel-toe offset (16mm forefoot, 10mm heel)

Scott Draper

1 ASICS Gel-Kayano 21, $160 (shown in NYC Marathon colors)

Competitor | november 2014

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Cross the line from runner to hero.

Become a St. Jude Hero and run for a reason. Experience an act greater than finishing a race, become a hero for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. St. Jude is working

ST.JUDE HEROES

towards a day when no child dies in the dawn of life. You can help us close the distance.

Participate as a St. Jude Hero at one of these upcoming events.

stjudeheroes.org

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Miami Beach, FL

March 15, 2015 Los Angeles, CA

April 25, 2015 Nashville, TN

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Starting Lines

Fuel

Plate by Plate:

How to Burn It Off Turkey:

180 calories per serving (white meat)/323 calories per serving (dark meat)

Workout: 3-mile tempo run. Whether you go light or dark on the turkey this Thanksgiving, a 3-mile tempo run at your goal half-marathon pace will burn roughly 300-350 calories. Warm up and cool down with an easy mile or two, and don’t feel guilty about your choice of meat.

Stuffing:

190 calories per serving

Workout: 400M intervals. Eight one-lap repetitions of the track at your 5K pace with 60 seconds recovery between each will burn right around 200 calories. Add a couple miles of warm-up and cooldown to justify a second serving.

Mashed potatoes: 190 calories

High-Nutrition, Low-Calorie Squash (or pumpkin) Soup Add a festive twist, sans calories, to your diet this holiday season. By Adam Elder The end of the year doesn’t have to equal added inches to your waistline. Our friend Biju Thomas, chef to the biggest names in cycling, shares a flavorful and nutritious yet low-calorie soup recipe, perfect for a light Thanksgiving appetizer, or anytime during the fall months.

Ingredients:

1 cup squash and/or pumpkin, cooked 1 cup stock (your preferred type) 1 tbsp. curry (to your taste) Yogurt Salt and pepper to taste Optional: minced ginger, garlic, chiles, fresh cilantro

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Carefully split squash/pumpkin in half lengthwise from the stem down. Scoop out the seeds. Liberally coat in olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. In an oven-safe dish, roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until “fork tender.” Remove and let cool. Once cool, scoop out the cooked pumpkin or squash, avoiding burnt pieces of skin. Put all ingredients into food

processor and blend to an even consistency. Adjust thickness using stock and yogurt to your liking. Pour the blended soup into a deep pot. Add the curry powder and other optional ingredients. Bring to a gently rolling boil, taste and adjust flavors to your liking. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs and a dollop of yogurt. Enjoy as a side dish, a base for sauces, a filling for pot pies, or as a basic soup for cool fall and winter days. Serves: 2-4 187 calories, 32g carbs, 1g fat, 19g protein, 491mg sodium, 10g sugar

For more nutritious recipes for all runners, visit competitor. com or check out Biju Thomas’ The Feed Zone Cookbook at velopress.com.

Gravy:

50 calories per serving

Workout: Lunges. A great warm-up for any run, perform 5 minutes of lunges with both legs— forward, backward and to each side—before heading out the door.

Cranberry sauce: 110 calories

Workout: Pushups and sit-ups. Burn off that cranberry sauce and improve your core strength with three sets of 10 pushups followed by three sets of 20 sit-ups. Take 60 seconds recovery between each set.

Pumpkin pie: 316 calories

Workout: Easy Run. How long you go is up to you, but 4 or more miles at a comfortable pace will burn off a slice of pie. Want a second slice? Run a little longer!

From top left: Courtesy of VeloPress; istockphoto.com(6)

Fall Food:

Workout: 30-minute spin. A half hour on the spin bike at a moderately intense aerobic effort will burn 200–300 calories and help give your legs a break from pounding the pavement.

Competitor | november 2014

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Starting Lines

Fuel

[Inside Knowledge]

Dissecting Gu It fuels endurance athletes, packs nicely and comes in

a plethora of flavors—but how do the ingredients of the popular energy gel actually work? By Emily Polachek

Amino Acids: Gu comprises four protein-building amino acids that fight muscle fatigue. Histidine works against metabolic acidosis, aka a buildup of too much acid in the body, by producing protein that allows the muscles to endure longer workouts. The Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA)—leucine, valine and isoleucine—aid protein synthesis, or the conversion of protein into usable fuel. Citric Acid: When muscles are fatigued, the citric acid cycle is responsible for breaking down and processing amino acids, glucose and fatty acids into ATP—the energy molecule required to keep the body going. The acid itself leaves a tangy, tart taste. Antioxidants: Anti-aging vitamins E and C (ascorbic acid) slow the body’s oxidation, or decay, process. In Gu, these antioxidants protect muscle tissue from cell damage caused by an oxygen increase in exercising muscles.

Electrolytes: As in most energy fuel products, electrolytes are key to replenishing the loss of salts in the body from excessive sweating. The potassium citrate, sodium citrate and sea salt found in Gu all work to replace electrolyte concentrations in the blood stream, which is regulated by the kidneys. Sea salt also enhances flavor and satisfies the body’s craving for it. Gellan Gum: This gelling agent thickens and increases the liquid’s viscosity, producing a clinging sensation in the mouth that allows the flavors to linger longer. Similar to flour or starch, it is a polysaccharide—or a long chain of carbohydrate-based molecules that can withstand higher temperatures. It also contributes to the gel’s opaqueness. Pectin Powder: Pectin powder enhances the distinct silky sensation of the gel. Pectin is also a soluble dietary fiber—it slows glucose absorption by binding to cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract and adding bulk to the stool, which may explain any sudden bout of runner trots. Caffeine: Not all Gu energy gels contain caffeine and most packages stick to a 20-milligram dosage in addition to the green tea leaf extract ingredient. The new seasonal Carmel Macchiato flavor packs 40 milligrams of caffeine for an extra boost of speedy fat-metabolizing stimuli. Herbs: For recovery, chamomile and ginger extract target the muscles and stomach respectively. Chamomile, a natural antiinflammatory, helps decrease muscle swelling, while ginger soothes the stomach during the rapid digestion of Gu pre-, midor post-run.

Source: Energygelcentral.com

Scott Draper

Maltodextrin and Fructose: Depending on the flavor, a single Gu packet contains 70 to 80 percent maltodextrin and 20 to 30 percent fructose. When maltodextrin is combined with fructose, a main sugar naturally occurring in fruit and vegetables, runners reap the carbenergy more quickly—meaning more energy during a long run with less blood being diverted from muscles to aid digestion. Maltodextrin’s high concentration of carbs, combined with very little sugar, makes this pairing ideal, enhancing the sweet factor without the consequences of a sugar crash.

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Competitor | november 2014 | 2014 Holiday gift guide

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FOR THE GUYS: TRAINING q Oakley Valve, $200, oakley.com Sport and lifestyle become one in these lightweight, full-frame sunnies with anti-slip ear and nose pieces. w Mountain Hardwear Winter Momentum Running Gloves, $48, mountainhardwear.com Keep your hands toasty and visible with tonal print and touch-screen functionality. e Headsweats Race Visor, $22, headsweats.com Shine bright in dim light when wearing this hi-vis yellow visor with reflective piping. r Sugoi Alpha Hybrid Jacket, $170, sugoi.com Wind and water resistance combine with warmth and breathability for a puffy that stays warm even as you sweat. t ASICS Lite-Show Favorite Long Sleeve, $50, asicsamerica. com Thumbholes and 360 degrees of permanent high-visibility make this a must-have piece for low-light days. y Patagonia Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Strider Pro Shorts 5â&#x20AC;?, $59, patagonia.com These quick-drying shorts have five pockets to carry all you need for a long, sanity-saving run. u

Newton Kismet Shoes, $129, newtonrunning.com With five energy-return lugs and a broad platform, the Kismet blends responsiveness and stability for a reliable everyday trainer that can stand up to race day. 50

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FOR THE GUYS: CASUAL q Icebreaker Escape Men’s Hood, $175, us.icebreaker.com Look sharp and stay warm in a color-blocked merino pullover. w Nike Not Running Sucks T-shirt, $35, nike.com Every runner needs some downtime, but you don’t have to like it. e Lululemon ABC Pant,

$128, lululemon.com ABC=anti-ball-crushing with a roomy gusset. With roll-up reflectivity on the cuffs and four-way stretch fabric, these will become your new favorite pants. r Tommy John Second Skin Trunk, $29, tommyjohnwear.com Silky-thin fabric is outfitted with a contour pouch. t ECCO Urban Slip On, $130, us.shop.ecco ECCO’s comfort fit midsole is hidden in a sleek slip-on with a rugged tread. competitor.com

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FOR THE GIRLS: TRAINING q Smith Optics PivLock Asana, $159, smithoptics.com Achieve both style and comfort with full-coverage shades that have a no-slip nose bridge and three interchangeable lenses. w Athleta Stripe Slouchie Beanie, $32, athleta.gap.com Cover your noggin on cold morning runs with a lightweight cotton beanie that offers a soft, “slouchie” fit. e Zensah Smart Running Gloves, $30, zensah.com A smart design for those who run with a smartphone—these moisture-wicking gloves are touch-screen-compatible. r MPG Motivate, $138, us.webstore. mpgsport.com Run in rain, sleet or snow in this slim-fit, waterproof jacket with quilted sleeves for extra warmth. t Skins A200 Long-

Sleeve Compression Top, $100, skins.net/usa This skin-tight nylon and spandex top helps improve blood circulation and retain body warmth on chilly days. y InkNBurn Robot Capris, $85, inknburn.com Channel your inner droid for endless energy in stretchy capris that give human legs a bionic print boost. u La Sportiva Crossover 2.0 GTX, $175, sportiva.com Winter weather won’t slow you down thanks to an integrated snow, slush and grit-shedding gaiter, and a grippy sole that holds on tight to slippery surfaces. 52

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FOR THE GIRLS: CASUAL q Run Pretty Far Running Is for Lovers Trucker Hat, $23, runprettyfar.com Express your love for running in a brightly colored mesh trucker hat. w Skirt Sports 261 Fearless Runner Pants, $88, skirtsports.com Inspired by the sweatpants Kathrine Switzer wore at the Boston Marathon in 1967, these have a comfortable fit with a technical edge. e Oiselle Randies 3-Pack, $48, oiselle.com Motivation comes from the rear in the Randies underwear collection with moisture-wicking panties that â&#x20AC;&#x153;run your butt off.â&#x20AC;? r Boom Running Ringer

Racerback Tank, $29, boomrunning.com This lifestyle tank that captures the vintage look of the 1970s running boom is perfect for post-run lounging. t Saucony Ridge Runner Hoody, $95, saucony.com A warm wool exterior keeps out the cold, and the insulated interior maintains optimum coziness. y Merrell All Out Bold, $100, merrell.com A supportive midsole means these fun kicks are functional too. (Tip: Order a half-size smaller as they tend to run large.) competitor.com

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mud AND obstacle racing q X Racewear Running Shirt With Bib Protector, $31, xracewear.com Why bother with safety pins when you can zip your number in a secure, see-though mesh pouch? w UA Run Compression Shorts, $45, underarmour.com These second-skin fit compression shorts have a 10-inch inseam to keep you covered and a zip pocket so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose your beer ticket or car key in a mud pit. e Salomon Speedcross

3 CS, $145, salomon.com A secure fit and solid grip give the confidence you need to scale walls, climb ropes and navigate the obstacle du jour. r 110% Play Harder Katalyst Short Sleeve, $75, 110playharder.com Seamless, zoned construction and a slim fit help regulate body temperature without chafe. t Pearl Izumi Wâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ultra Short Tight, $50, pearlizumi.com With a secure and snug fit, all you have to worry about is passing the racer in front of you. y Inov-8 Roclite 295, $115, inov-8.com The women's-specific fit of this lightweight trail flyer means you can charge even on unpredictable terrain. u Prosok V2, $20, prosok.com Made from a naturally breathable and anti-microbial organic bamboo blend, these socks provide a plush feel with a thin, durable fit. i Ryders Eyewear Face, $80, ryderseyewear.com Full frames provide protection from mud and barbed wire, while photochromic lenses adjust to variable light conditions.

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TRAIL RUNNING q Smartwool PhD Run Ultra Light Mini Socks, $16, smartwool.com Offering warmth, form-fitting design and natural moisture-wicking performance, these socks keep your feet comfortable and dry out on the trails. w Ultimate Direction AK Race Vest 2.0, $100, ultimatedirection.com Modeled after the minimalist pack worn by Anton Krupicka, this carries fuel and other essentials without weighing you down.

e Hal Koernerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Field Guide to Ultra Running, $19, velopress.com Ultra-distance champion Hal Koerner serves up amazing insights for training, gear, fueling and trail technique in this comprehensive book. r Yaktrax Pro, $30, yaktrax.com These easy-on, easy-off rubber and coiled-wire crampons are ideal for winter running on snowy trails or icy streets. t TASC Performance AT Tech Long Sleeve, $50 Made from a buttery soft, stretchy blend of bamboo and cotton fabric, this moisture-wicking shirt is warm, breathable and odor-resistant. y The

North Face Kilowatt Jacket, $130, thenorthface.com Durable, weather-resistant and very breathable, this sharp two-tone jacket is built for cold-weather mountain running. u New Balance Heat Tight, $75, newbalance.com Made from a lightweight, fleece-lined fabric, these tights will keep you cozy on cold winter training runs. i Light & Motion Vis 360+ headlamp, $180, lightandmotion.com This crazy-bright headlamp system is ideal for running in both trail and urban settings, plus can be affixed to a bike helmet. o Suunto Ambit3 Sport, $400, suunto.com This state-of-the-art GPS watch and heart rate monitor has advanced swim, bike and run tracking functions, receives text messages and syncs wirelessly to an iPhone or iPad. 1) Skechers GOrun Ultra Extreme, $85, skechersperformance.com Built off the same chassis as Skechersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; award-winning GOrun Ultra trail shoe, this version has a water-resistant upper to keep the inclement weather at bay. 1! Merino Wool Buff, $32, buffusa.com This versatile tube of stretchy merino wool fabric can be worn as a hat, headband, scarf or even a balaclava in fierce conditions. competitor.com

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CROSS-TRAINING q SKLZ Quick Change System, $60, sklz.com This portable resistance system comes with four bands, a door hook and a complete training guide. w ReXist360 Training System, $99, rexist360.com Detachable cuffs, color-coded intensity bands and travel-friendly packaging make this perfect for the nonstop runner. e Vew-Do Balance Boards Zippy, $135, vewdo.com This versatile board offers sweet balance practice to any runner looking to increase agility, strengthen core muscles and maybe get better at surfing. r Gaiam Classic Balance Ball Chair, $90, gaiam.com Keep your gut and posture in check when you swap out your old desk chair for this ergonomic wonder.

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CROSS-TRAINING q Reebok CrossFit Nano 4.0 shoes, $120, reebok.com The cage overlay construction delivers the lateral stability needed for dynamic workouts. Rope climbs, anyone? w Beachbody PiYo DVD, $60, beachbody.com Blend the best of Pilates and yoga with this bodyweightbased resistance program for a low-impact, effective off-day workout. e Quick Strength for Runners by Jeff Horowitz, $20, velopress. com Run coach Jeff Horowitz teaches readers how to work key muscles for increased strength on the roads. r Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless

earbuds, $200, jabra.com Carry your coach with you via a built-in biometric heart rate monitor, real-time voice coaching and a built-in fitness-tracker app. They even play music! t SOUL Electronics Transform Headphones, $99, soulelectronics.com The Transforms serve up over-ear comfort rugged enough for on-the-go listening. y Yurbuds Inspire 400 earphones, $50, yurbuds.com With soft yet secure fit, volume control, voice control, music control and magnetic-click technology for a tangle-free cable, if you can think of it, these probably do it! competitor.com

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RACING: 5k to Marathon q Competitor Magazine Premium Training Plans, $25, competitor.com/trainingplans Get daily guidance, plus exclusive instructional videos that complement the workouts and maximize your training. w Pacebands, $9, pacebands.com Available for a variety of distances and goal finish times, Pacebands help runners stay on pace during their race with beautifully designed multicolored bands. e Ultraspire

Isomeric Pocket Handheld Water Bottle Carrier, $30, ultraspire.com The Isomeric Pocket is an adjustable, breathable handheld water bottle carrier that stays cool against the skin and comes with a 20-ounce bottle. r SpliBelt Race Number Belt, $12, spibelt.com The SpiBelt Race Number Belt securely holds your bib in place on race day while also giving you a place to put gels, a cell phone, keys or a credit card. t Tough Girl Tutus, $30, toughgirltutus.com Constructed with comfort in mind and engineered for performance with a built-in race belt, Tough Girl Tutus make race days more fun. y myTaT Racing Tattoos, $5, mytat.com These temporary tattoos have inspirational themes to help you and those around you go the distance. u Armpocket Ultra i35, $45, armpocket.com This oversize armband can carry large phones and has room to spare for credit cards, cash and more. i Hoka One One Huaka, $150, hokaoneone.com Providing a lightweight, fast ride with a welcome boost of soft cushioning, the Huaka helps you fly to the finish line. o Skratch Labs Exercise Hydration Mix, $19.50, skratchlabs.com This all-natural sports drink replaces both the fluid and electrolytes you lose in your sweat while providing just enough calories to help fuel muscles. 1) Zoot Recovery 2.0 CRx Sock, $65, zootsports.com Featuring graduated muscle-specific compression zones, these socks put direct pressure on your lower leg muscles to help flush lactic acid.Â

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RECOVERY q TriggerPoint GRID STK, $35, tptherapy.com For those who love a hardcore roll-out, the stick gives you the same massage effects in places a bulky roller can’t reach. w RumbleRoller Foam Roller, $45, rumbleroller.com Don’t let the big knobs intimidate you—this new roller digs where you need and releases right when you want it. e Race-Pak Nutrition, $60, race-pak.com A one-stop grab for all of your post-race recovery needs, this box is fully stocked with runners’ favorite bars, gels and everything in between. r SKINS RY400

Recovery Tight, $140, skins.com Wear these pants to bed for maximum recovery—the gradient material increases oxygen-rich blood flow and decreases dreaded DOMS. t OSMO Acute Recovery for Men/Women, $35, osmonutrition.com Replenish tired muscles with a gender-specific recovery supplement so you can perform at your best. y Swiftwick ASPIRE Zero, Four and Twelve socks, $13, $18, $36, swiftwick.com Slip into these for a glovelike fit and light support. We like Zero for road, Four for trail and Twelve anytime. u CEP Progression+ Run Socks, $50, cepcompression.com Keep your stride snappy with wicking compression socks that keep muscles happy for running and relaxing. i Pro-Tec Athletics Orb Massage Ball, $20, pro-tecathletics.com Get deep-tissue release on your massage therapist’s day off with this simple yet effective multidirectional massage tool. competitor.com

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TRAVEL q STM Bags Drifter Laptop Backpack, $140, stmbags.com This retro backpack comfortably holds shoes, running gear, fresh clothes, toiletries and a water bottle—and even has separate padded pockets for a tablet and laptop. w Ogio Hampton’s Felt Tote Bag, $90, ogio.

com This stylish tote with ample storage carries everything women need for an overnight race weekend, including a fleece lined laptop compartment, an outer tablet pocket, and plenty of accessible zippered pockets for makeup, wallet, phone and sunglasses. e Brooks PureProject Shelter Jacket, $200, brooksrunning.com The runner in transit will appreciate this suit-like and functional women’s jacket that has a water- and windproof herringbone shell. r Gore Urban Run Windstopper Soft Shell Jacket, $180, goreapparel.com Trendy and versatile, this travel-ready jacket features a flip-up magnetic collar to block the elements and reflectivity when you are ready to run. t SeaVees Legend Sneaker, $78, seavees.com Lined with a bamboo canvas, the footbed of these throwback sneakers keeps feet dry and odor-free. y Keen Uneek Sandals, $100, keenfootwear.com Constructed from two cords and a sole, these travel-ready sandals adapt to the shape of your feet for a worn-in feel. u GoPro Hero4 Black, $500, gopro.com A waterproof, easy-to-use GoPro is just the ticket for recording a stunning view or your finish-line perspective with 30 frames per second. i Vapur Element, $12 for .7L size, vapor.us/element Hydrate on the go with a portable, foldable and reusable water bottle. o Probar Meal Variety Pack, 12 pack for $39, shop.theprobar.com Substitute plane food with a 3-ounce Probar Meal bar (or two) packed with 6 grams of fiber, 9 grams of protein and 390 calories of organic fruits and seeds. 1) Scrubba Wash Bag, $55, thescrubba.com Weighing less than 5 ounces, this pocket-sized washing machine cleans sweaty running clothes quickly and effectively. 60

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WATCHES WITH MORE q Garmin Forerunner 920 XT $450 ($500 for HRT package), garmin.com It's all here—track cadence, oscillation, ground contact and

estimated VO2 max in a GPS watch. With live tracking, smart notifications and up to 40 hours of GPS battery life, this is the ultimate missioncontrol device for your wrist. w Timex One GPS+ Watch, $400, timex.com The One GPS+ smart watch tracks speed and distance, monitors heart rate, plays music and even connects with AT&T’s wireless network so you can check email and connect with your favorite social media platforms and tracking apps. e TomTom Runner Cardio, $270, tomtom.com No chest strap necessary! The all-new TomTom Runner Cardio has a built-in heart rate monitor to track your effort in real time. r Soleus Chicked Watch, $55, soleusrunning.com A women’s-specific watch with a 30-lap memory and slim wristband, the Chicked has five interval timers for maximum aerobic efficiency training. t Mio FUSE, $149, mioglobal.com Large and small band sizing allows for a custom fit on this chest-strap-free heart rate monitor, watch, timer and fitness tracker in one, with room for up to 30 hours of data. y Magellan Echo Fit Sports Watch, $149, magellangps.com Working in sync with your smartphone, the Echo streams data in real time and allows you to see your time, pace, distance and more. competitor.com

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STOCKING STUFFERS q Lifeproof Nüüd smartphone case, $90, otterbox.com Protect your smartphone from inclement weather and accidental spills with a weather-proof and impact-resistant phone case. w Inspired Endurance Classic Wing and Race Necklace with Pearl, $75, inspiredendurance.com Show off your favorite distance with some silver bling in this running-inspired jewelry. e BeeCause Runner Girl Sneaker Charms, $15 each, beecausecharms.com Dress up your kicks with a pair of eye-catching shoelace charms. r Body Glide, $6, bodyglide. com For long runs or long-distance races, keep things smooth and avoid chafing from your head to your toes. t TheraPearl Sports Pack, $12, therapearl.com Whether you need heat or cold, this sports pack delivers with 20 minutes of therapeutic relief. y Massage Envy Gift Card, massageenvy.com Recover right with a reflexology session, deep-tissue or sports massage. u Strava Premium Membership, $59 annually, strava.com Filter your leaderboards, find friends out on a run, set goals and more with Strava’s premium edition. i Ibex Indie Quick Link, $30, ibex.com This essential cold-weather item is a balaclava, hat or neck-warmer, depending on how you use it. o Road ID

Bracelet, $30, roadid.com An ID bracelet will give you and your loved ones peace of mind while you brave darkness and winter elements. 1) Pura Naturals Soap Infused, 3-Pack, Active Slice $9, puranaturalsproducts.com Get squeaky clean with handy soap-infused sponges, perfect for quick showers at the office or gym. 62

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SPLURGE-WORTHY  Varidesk Pro Plus, $350, varidesk.com Place the Varidesk on top of your existing desk for ergonomic adjustability and workstation comfort whether sitting or standing.  Precor TRM 455, $5,999, precor.com With a range from a 2 percent decline to a 15 percent incline,

a belt that automatically adjusts tension to work with changes in your stride and 23 preset workouts as well as the ability to create your own, this is one treadmill you won’t mind using.  Trip with Run the World Adventures, prices vary, runtheworldadventures.com What better way to reward yourself for another year of training than with a once-in-a-lifetime custom-run vacation in Spain, Italy, Tanzania, Iceland, New Zealand or Guatemala?  Recon Instruments Jet, $599, reconinstruments.com This personal optimization computer disguised as a sleek pair of sunglasses lets you connect with all of your apps in real time, plus has an onboard camera, gyroscope, thermometer, altimeter, accelerometer and touch-sensor functionality—just what every information hound needs!  Compex Edge Sport Elite, $849, compex. com Recover like the pros by using powerful and targeted electrostimulation to improve recovery, increase circulation, clear lactic acid and massage muscles.  Sleep Number FlexFit 3 Adjustable Base, $2,000-$4,800, sleepnumber.com This bed lets you select your sleep number and choose your sleep position, the top half is even split allowing for a personalized sleep position. Plus it has a built-in massager!  Podium Legs, $800, podiumlegs.com Enjoy masseuse-quality full-leg massage with Podium Legs’ air chamber compression—set it for a light massage if you have a big workout planned, or increase the setting for a recovery day.  Rock ’n’ Roll Tourpass Global, $449, runrocknroll.competitor.com With a Global Pass there’s no need to choose between races—just say yes to all Rock ’n’ Roll tours in North America and Europe for 2015!  ElliptoGO 11R, $3,499, elliptigo.com Maintain running fitness and reduce impact while logging on the miles you want—this model can climb inclines as well as a road bike!

COMPETITOR.COM

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DESTINATION SAN DIEGO COUNTY

BY CAITLYN PILKINGTON

SUNNY SAN DIEGO COUNTY OFFERS all the highlights for a stellar endurance vacation: endless run options, outstanding weather—and excellent food and craft beer for post-run fueling. With a sun-kissed reputation of being outdoorfriendly and active nearly year-round, America’s Finest City holds true to its label when it comes to the picture-perfect scene of runners, bikers and surfers dotting every coastline, from small-town Oceanside south to the U.S.-Mexico border. “San Diego is really America’s Finest City for running and training,” says Paul Greer, head coach of the San Diego Track Club and San Diego City College cross-country team, as well as a 1992 U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier in the 1,500 meters. “Recreational enthusiasts of all ages and abilities have easy access to beaches down the coastline and the beautiful mountains from the east county. The city is truly a paradise, offering runners this great opportunity to train and race year-round.” With 360 days of sunshine per year (an overzealous estimate, but pretty darn accurate), it’s unnecessary to ever step onto a treadmill. Follow the coastline for miles, win a quick uphill battle along the beachside cliffs of Torrey Pines State Reserve, and satisfy those runner munchies at the best Mexican joint in town— because they are all arguably unbeatable. If you’re thirsting for a post-run brew, take advantage of San Diego’s thriving craft beer scene, which, with nearly 75 locally brewed brands, consistently gives every other hub a run for its beer money. 66

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• Vibrant neighborhoods and colorful beach towns fill San Diego County, from the historic Gaslamp Quarter downtown, to the eclectic vibe of North Park just east of Balboa Park, to the laid-back attitude of coastal, suburban Encinitas 30 miles north of the city.

where to

Running along the san diego waterfront offers views of the harbor and city skyline, plus easy access to downtown.

John Trice

RUN

vRoutes are plentiful; it simply depends on what type of run you want. Duck into the rolling trails in and around Balboa Park, which offers 65 miles of exploring. There are five main entries, including Morley Field, which hosts the national high school cross-country championships every year. For some elevation and killer seaside views, tackle the Torrey Pines State Reserve from the north side. Park on 4th Street in Del Mar and chase the water to the beach lot, continuing up the curvy access road. Continue down any of the winding trails toward the ocean before heading back to your car. If you’re itching for an authentic So Cal experience, get a one-way ticket on the Coaster commuter train from Solana Beach to Oceanside on a Saturday morning—your on-foot return trip is 15 miles through six chill surf communities. On a sunny morning, Mission Bay is a perfect spot to park, run for miles and indulge in a waterside picnic. To mix trails with mountain climbs, head east to Mount Laguna and tackle the Big Laguna Trail, a 6-miler that hovers around 5,500 feet of elevation for the whole run.

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SAN DIEGO COUNTY

DESTINATION WHERE TO

EAT&DRINK

x Bull Taco (bulltaco.com) is the place to go for great tacos, which has four locations along the coastline north of San Diego. If sushi strikes your fancy, Sushi Ota (4529 Mission Bay Dr.) is a unanimous favorite on the outskirts of Pacific Beach. For a caffeine boost, Zumbar Coffee (zumbarcoffee.com) is a local favorite for its artisanal approach to brewing, with two locations: Cardiff by the Sea and Sorrento Valley behind the train station. Fuel up at Claire’s on Cedros (246 N. Cedros Ave., clairesoncedros.com) in Solana Beach—the Clairecakes, along with the quaint atmosphere, are to die for. The Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego hosts tons of restaurants and nightlife options. If it’s the third Thursday of the month, head to 30th Street (30thstreet.org) in North Park, where a plethora of brew spots and restaurants offer deals. And of course, there’s San Diego’s beer scene—and visiting Stone Brewing Company (stonebrewing.com) is a must. Head to Escondido, northeast of the city, to tour the brewery gardens; for just beer and food, the Liberty Station location near the airport offers a huge spot for sipping.

WHERE TO

j Locals get kudos for completing the Triple Crown Half Marathon Series, comprising the Carlsbad Marathon & Half (Jan. 8), La Jolla Half Marathon (Apr. 26) and America’s Finest City Half Marathon (Aug. 16). The Xterra Trail Run Socal Series offers two San Diego installments for its trail series: the Mission Gorge Trail Run (Feb. 1) and the Black Mountain Trail Run (Apr. 12). Of course you can always run a mile with your dog or by yourself at The Encinitas Mile (Mar. 15)—see how fast you can complete the 1,609-meter distance. For more off-road options, complete the Dirt Devils Progressive Series next year, including the Foxy 5K (Apr. 12), Wildhorse 10K (June 14), Stairway to Heaven 15K (Aug. 16) and the Raptor Ridge Half Marathon (Oct. 4). Don’t miss the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego Marathon & ½ Marathon (May 31), the original race for the popular series, starting at Balboa Park and finishing at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres.

SUJA ROCK 'N' ROLL SAN DIEGO MARATHON & 1/2 MARATHON

WEATHER

k San Diego is pretty much perfect year-round. The harshest element is an occasional heavy rainfall, and temps rarely dip below 45 in the dead of winter. Be wary of the “May Gray” and “June Gloom” months, when San Diego is notoriously overcast (but still great for running); the best months to escape to the beaches are August and September, when the water is warmest. Summer highs may hover around the high 80s and low 90s, but for the majority of the season, temperatures only reach the high 70s.

CLAIRE’S ON CEDROS

BULL TACO

CAMP PENDLETON, THE MAJOR U.S. MARINE CORPS BASE ON THE WEST COAST, HOSTS ITS WORLD-FAMOUS MUD RUN OVER TWO WEEKENDS EVERY JUNE, SENDING RUNNERS THROUGH THE RUTS AND OBSTACLES INSIDE THE BASE. k With three shops located across the county in Pacific Beach, Encinitas and La Mesa, Movin’ Shoes (movinshoes.com) is the go-to local shop for runners. Olympians Bob Kennedy and Meb Keflezighi, a San Diego resident, purchased the chain in 2013, and it continues to provide top-notch service with shoe fittings, clinics for local charity teams and weekly group runs. A newer addition to the running community is Milestone Running Company (2545

Arts

DID YOU

KNOW?

1,400-acre Balboa Park hosts 15 major museums and the San Diego Zoo, making it the largest urban cultural park in the nation.

STONE BREWING COMPANY

El Cajon Boulevard, Suite D, milestonerunning.com), which dubs itself the most conveniently located store in the city and offers customers assistance in all areas of running. Road Runner Sports (roadrunnersports.com), with locations in Carlsbad and Clairemont Mesa, is another great option for a larger variety of apparel, including the store’s own performance line. Be sure to check out Road Runner’s once-a-month Adventure Run.

Pop Culture

Comic-Con International trade show takes over San Diego’s downtown every July, with attendance topping 130,000 enthusiasts—most in costume.

History

Built in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island is one of the oldest wooden structures in the country and a popular tourist destination.

Clockwise from top left: Ryan Bethke; Courtesy of Claire’s on Cedros; Kevin Yoshimitsu; Courtesy of Stone Brewing Co.

RACE

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My Favorite things MID-ATLANTIC

HERE ARE SOME OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE RUNNING ROUTE Mount Vernon Trail, between Rosslyn, Va., and Mount Vernon, Va. “I can jump on it near my house and run all the way to George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon. In the early morning, it’s so peaceful.”

FAVORITE LOCAL RACE George Washington Parkway Classic 10 Mile in Alexandria “In the first few moments of the race, all you hear is the sound of thousands of runners’ feet hitting the ground. It’s so surreal.”

FAVORITE GEAR

“My ratty, old Brooks running hat. It’s like my security blanket. I put it on and then I can run. It’s my lucky charm.”

FAVORITE LOCAL RUNNING SHOP Pacers Alexandria

1301 King St., Alexandria runpacers.com

“It’s my second home.”

About 1 million people in the state of Virginia do not know where their next meal will come from. This is a stat that doesn’t sit well with 32-year-old Alexandria resident Amos Desjardins. So he decided to do something about it. And what else would an ultrarunner with multiple marathons and 50-milers under his belt do to make a statement other than, well, run? This past September, Desjardins did just that, logging 500 miles in five days throughout Virginia to raise awareness and funds to fight hunger within the state. “I figured I’d be taking about a million steps, which equates to a step per every individual who struggles with hunger,” he says. “Running is something I’m good at, and I wanted to use it for a purpose.” Supported by the Federation of Virginia Food Banks—a nonprofit for which Desjardins, a geospatial analyst, regularly volunteers—he raised about $5,000 for the cause. His five-day journey took a circuitous route from Alexandria to Richmond and back, in which Desjardins endured an Indian

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summer heatwave, ran alongside a Supreme Court Justice, and received a hero’s welcome into the state capital by Virginia’s Governor Terry McAuliffe. “The heat made it tough, but I just had to push on as hard as I could every day,” Desjardins says of the 107-degree temperatures. “Even if I had to walk, I wanted to keep moving. When you’re not running just for yourself, there’s a lot more pushing you.” Sometimes escorted by friends and supporters, but often alone, Desjardins ran on isolated roads and highways, and scaled more than 2,000 feet in elevation throughout his 500-mile run. At the end of each day, ice baths in the hotel may have cooled his core temperature, but Desjardins’ passion for his cause continued to burn. “I think it takes something really out there to get people’s attention,” he says of his adventure. “People have told me, ‘If you’re willing to go out and run 500 miles, the least I can do is donate some canned goods or money to a shelter.’ That shows me I was able to achieve what I set out to do.” —SARAH WASSNER FLYNN

2928 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington

woodlandsveganbistro.net

“Their garlic kale is addicting.”

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A POST-RACE TREAT Sticky Fingers Bakery

1370 Park Rd. NW, Washington stickyfingersbakery.com

“Their coconut cupcakes remind me of a cake my dad and I used to get as a kid.”

FAVORITE WORDS TO RUN BY

“‘The measure of who we are is what we do with what we have.’ It’s a Vince Lombardi quote. It speaks to why I did 500 miles in five days. Something I can do is run, and I really care about this cause.”

FAVORITE WORKOUT

“A nice, steady, long run in the early morning, all alone.”

Courtesy of Abi Desjardins

Amos Desjardins

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Woodlands Vegan Bistro

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Trailhead MID-ATLANTIC

by the numbers

Bonus offered to anyone who sets a course record at the NCR Trail Marathon in Sparks, Md., on Nov. 29. The times to beat are 2:25:18 for men and 2:47:25 for women.

The cost of a 3D gait analysis at the University of Virginia’s Speed Clinic, a lab that uses detailed biomechanical data to help runners improve their speed.

Schaeffer Farm Trail Area

Pairs of flannel boxer shorts given out to early registrants of the Nearly Naked Mile in Reston, Va., on Nov. 8.

Not too long ago, this region of upper Montgomery County was nothing but farmland and fields. While most of the land has been developed into subdivisions and soccer fields, Schaeffer Farm remains virtually untouched, lending itself to a delightful system of trails. Designed by a team of local mountain bikers in 2011, the 12-mile trail system features twisting

singletrack, wide open fields, stream crossings and plenty of sharp climbs and curvy descents too. Though implemented with bikers in mind, just as many runners as bikers flock to this farm, and has become the site of several trail races, such as the Schaeffer Scramble 5K/10K/10-mile on Nov. 8. To register for the race, visit runreg.com/3975. For trail maps, check out maryland.gov. —S.W.F.

The 12K American women’s record set by Molly Huddle at the 2013 US National Road Racing Championships. This year’s event returns to Alexandria, Va., on Nov.16.

’Tis the season for Turkey Trotting, So which race serves up the best swag? buzz worthy!

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Among the local events, the 5-mile Alexandria Turkey Trot on Nov. 27 (alexandriaturkeytrot.com) is the largest, attracting more than 5,000 runners, including a cadre of elites, for its $2,000 prize purse. The 10K Fort Belvoir Trot on Nov. 15 (belvoirmwr.com/Facilities/SportsFitness) offers a turkey to the top finishers and a pie for age-group winners. And at the Balmoral Greens Turkey Trot in Clifton, Va., on Nov. 27 (balmoralgreens.org), you can win gift certificates to local restaurants in case you don’t feel like cooking this year.

Brian Knight, courtesy of Swim Bike Run Photography

Germantown, MD

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RACE READY MID-ATLANTIC

MUST-DO RACES LIGHTS ON THE BAY 5K

Nov. 21; Annapolis, Md. annapolisstriders.org Run your way into the holiday season with this nighttime race along the Chesapeake Bay. More than 60 dazzling light displays— flashing snowflakes, dancing reindeer and illuminated sailboats—as well as views of the Bay Bridge will serve as a sparkling background while runners race around Sandy Point State Park. At the finish line, toast your efforts with hot chocolate and other delicious holiday treats. Cheers!

REHOBOTH BEACH MARATHON

RUN WITH SANTA 5K

Dec. 6; Rehoboth Beach, Del. rbmarathon.com • Stretch your marathon season out a little longer with this late-season 26.2-miler. A low-key race, it features a smaller field compared to major marathons (last year’s race saw less than 2,000 finishers in both the marathon and the coinciding half marathon). The flat and swift course starts and ends on the famed Rehoboth boardwalk and takes you to the nearby town of Lewes, through Cape Henlopen State Park and along the Junction and Breakwater Trail. An ideal course to aim for a new PR, it’s also a certified Boston Qualifier for those with even loftier goals.

Think you’re speedier than Santa? Find out at this 5K, where you can keep pace with the jolly guy or just don your own Santa suit, Rudolph nose or elf tights, and jingle all the way to the finish line. Get creative because prizes go to the best costumes. There will also be awards for top teams (must be comprised of a minimum of four people with at least one female) and cash prizes for the top three individuals, plus age-group awards.

To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Jon Valentine; Courtesy of Potomac River Running

Dec. 7; Reston, Va. potomacriverrunning.com

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MY FAVORITE THINGS MIDWEST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE PLACE TO RUN

“The Lakefront Path before the sun comes up. Even in the winter it’s beautiful.”

FAVORITE WAY TO CROSS-TRAIN

“Climbing stairs in my office building … killer.”

FAVORITE RUNNING ADVICE

“The only people who are slow are the ones still on the couch. I tell all of my runners and run-walkers that whenever they say that they are slow, they have to add a mile to their weekly mileage. And have fun. This is our discretionary free time and it is a blessing!”

FAVORITE EVENT THAT YOU’VE DONE Antarctica Marathon

DENISE SAURIOL, 46, RUNS with the joy of someone who knows how easily the sport can be taken away. In preparation for the New York City Half Marathon in 2009, she was warming up in Central Park and focused squarely on what she hoped would be her PR. She came upon an intersection with a construction wall that made visibility difficult. After noticing a hose perpendicular to the sidewalk, she made a point to avoid tripping on it. Instead, she was hit by a car. She smashed into the hood and cracked the windshield. She never made it to the half marathon start line. “We think we can control our lives by planning things,” Sauriol says. “But anything can happen at any moment.” Sauriol recalls remaining conscious throughout the whole experience. “Thank God I could breathe,” she says. “Thank God I could feel my legs. And thank God someone called an ambulance and I got attention right away.” Despite the fact that she was just hit by a car, Sauriol realized how fortunate she had been. “I had broken five vertebrae, but they were at the end of the spine,” she says. “The doctors at the hospital all told me to buy a lottery ticket because it was my lucky day.” Later that fall, while wearing a back brace, Sauriol walked the first mile of the Chicago Marathon that she had been training for. “Then I went back

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and cheered on the finishers,” she says. “I was just so happy that I was able to be a part of it.” This fall, she’ll be on the same course, running in her 57th marathon. But the sport is much different for her since that life-changing day in New York. “I’ve gone as far as to call it my rebirth day,” she says with a laugh. “Before the accident, I was focused on the finish time, not the finish line. I was so focused on trying to hit my times that I’d let it take precedence over everything.” Having run cross country in high school in Oak Forest, Ill., Sauriol was not considered one of the faster girls on the team. She then started working with coach Greg Demontay, and gradually increased her speed. She ran a 3:15 marathon in 2006, followed by a 3:20 in 2007 at the Chicago Marathon, the same year the race was halted due to the heat. And in 2008, she was the top Illinois masters woman to finish the Chicago Marathon. These days Sauriol, a coach for Chicago Endurance Sports and her own coaching program, Run for Change, is more focused on introducing people to the sport than on her personal finishing times. “When I was growing up, running was used as punishment, and some people still think of it that way,” she says. “They come to you with this deer-in-the-headlights look. But it’s just conditioning your body. And then you start to feel better. And that look disappears. And you see someone transform.” —JEFF BANOWETZ

FAVORITE PRO ATHLETE Steve Prefontaine FAVORITE SHOES Brooks Adrenaline

FAVORITE WORKOUT 10 by 1 mile repeats with 90-second recovery

“This is great to have under your belt at the start line of a marathon.”

FAVORITE WAY TO UNWIND (BESIDES RUNNING)

“Live music, my other addiction.”

FAVORITE POST-RUN INDULGENCE Pizza and beer

Lawton Warzala

Denise Sauriol

FAVORITE CHICAGOAREA RACE Chicago Marathon

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TRAILHEAD MIDWEST

BY THE NUMBERS

The approximate value of Pi. It’s also the distance of the Rotary Pie Run on Nov. 27 in LaGrange, Ill. The first 2,000 runners to register receive a Sara Lee pie to bring home for their Thanksgiving dinner.

The length of the racetrack in miles at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Ill., which is the second largest in the U.S. It’s also the host of the annual Autobahn 5K Cruise, where runners take over the track on Nov. 22 to benefit the Cure It Foundation that helps fight pediatric cancer.

Deer Grove Forest Preserve

PALATINE, IL

OFFERING THE BEST TRAIL RUNNING in Chicago’s northern suburbs, the Deer Grove Forest Preserve offers nearly 10 miles of offroad trails, in addition to several miles of paved routes that have made this a popular escape. Some have even nicknamed the preserve as “Palos North,” in reference to the bigger trail system in the southwest suburbs. The volume of trails isn’t as plentiful as Palos, but for north suburban runners this is certainly the gem of the forest preserve system.

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MILLION

Annual visitors to Navy Pier in Chicago in 2013, making it the top tourist destination in the state. Join the crowd at Chicago’s Perfect 10, a 10-mile and 10K race that starts and finishes at the pier on Nov. 8.

LOOKING TO STAY FIT THROUGH A CHICAGO WINTER? The Chicago Area Runners Association offers a 12-week winter half-marathon training program to keep you going through the cold season with the F^3 Lake Half Marathon on Jan. 25 as its target race. Enjoy fully supported long runs, experienced group leaders and coached speed workouts throughout the process. You’ll come out the other side of winter in even better shape than you are now. cararuns.org

Betsy Vera

BUZZ WORTHY!

Located just north of Dundee Road in Palatine, the preserve is bisected by Quentin Road, creating east and west sections of the park. The west side is slightly larger, and has the longer uninterrupted trail loop of 5.4 miles. The hilly terrain features mostly hickory and oak trees, several steep ravines as well as creeks and lakes. You’ll find the usual park amenities—restrooms and water fountains— which help to make it a good choice for fall long runs. fpdcc.com —J.B.

Distance in miles of the original Route 66, which stretched from Chicago to Santa Monica, Calif. Participants only have to run 13.1 miles of it at the Litchfield Route 66 Half Marathon on Nov. 9 in downstate Illinois.

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RACE READY MIDWEST

MUST-DO RACES NAPERVILLE NOON LIONS TURKEY TROT Nov. 27; Naperville, Ill. napervilleturkeytrot.com

This turkey trot has grown into one of the largest Thanksgiving Day races in the area, and with good reason. The event, which starts and finishes at Naperville Central High School, features a scenic neighborhood course with just enough hills to make it interesting. All participants receive long-sleeve performance T-shirts and can enjoy a pancake breakfast after the race. The event routinely sells out at 7,500 participants, so don’t wait until the last minute to register (it’s usually closed before race day). Race proceeds benefit the Lion’s Club.

UGLY SWEATER RUN

Dec. 6; Chicago santahustle.com/Chicago

This may be the weekend of turkey trots, but this 5K race that starts and finishes at Soldier Field and runs along the Lakefront celebrates another holiday tradition—the ugly Christmas sweater. So grab one from the back of your closet and put it to some use! The event features holiday music, hot chocolate on the course and post-race festivities that include Sam Adams beer and Angry Orchard Hard Cider. Awards for the best and worst sweater will follow the race, and every runner receives a custom vintage knit hat.

• This may not be a race for a PR when candy and cookies are handed out on the course. Or maybe that’s obvious from the majority of participants racing in Santa hats, beards and technical red hoodies. Now that there’s no pressure to set any records, racers can enjoy the holiday atmosphere at this 6th annual Christmasthemed 5K, which draws thousands of runners and walkers to the lakefront to celebrate the holiday season and find out just how itchy it is to run in a fake beard. The race starts and finishes at Solider Field, and is also a donation drop-off point for Toys for Tots.

Nov. 29; Chicago theuglysweaterrun.com

To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top Chuck Koch; Evan Semon

SANTA HUSTLE

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MY FAVORITE THINGS MOUNTAIN WEST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE RUNNING SITE Mapmyrun.com

“This website uses Google maps to let me identify routes, exact distances and elevation gains before I run.”

FAVORITE RUNNING SHOE Brooks Ravenna FAVORITE HYDRATION TOOL Nalgene water bottle “I don’t usually carry water on a run, but afterward I need a ton of it. My Nalgene is tough as nails, has lasted me years and keeps water cool.”

KEVIN STANOWICK’S JOB is simply to keep people on the run. A committed runner himself, the corporate fitness and wellness program manager at Longmont-based Seagate Technology just relocated to Colorado from Ohio and couldn’t be more excited about the task at hand. “After being exposed to the amazing races available in Colorado, the terrain, supportive culture and amount of sunshine, I smile every time I lace up my shoes,” says Stanowick, who competes in distances up to a half marathon with a 20:46 5K PR and respectable 49:48 in this year’s Bolder Boulder 10K. In addition to running fast races, Stanowick’s main mission is to compete in every kind of race—and inspire others to do the same. “I chose my career to help people improve and enjoy their life by involving fitness,” he says. “After racking my brain on how to get or keep people active, I learned that it’s crucial for people to connect the three root components of staying active. “First, you must run,” Stanowick explains. “Almost every sport or activity involves running in one shape or form. Running is truly foundational. Second, as long as there’s camaraderie, there are

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accomplishments, objectives and enjoyment. The third component is competition. Competition is one of the backbones of running as a sport, whether among yourself, your friends or family, or with 50,000 other people.” Thus, the employee wellness fitness program implemented by world-class Health Fitness Corporation at Seagate Technology has helped Stanowick to teach these components to others. Tools include a custom health-tracking portal, bike storage and locker rooms, on-site fitness center, volleyball courts and a paved trail looping the building. “During lunch hour, walkers, cyclists and runners pour out of the building,” Stanowick says. There are group classes, pre-work group runs that consist of a 13-mile trek from Boulder to Longmont every Friday, and a run conditioning class. “A couple of the regular attendees are running better and more than they ever have in their lives,” Stanowick says. “I simply try to make running fun for them, too, while keeping a competitive focus. We all tend to keep each other on track, excited and motivated.” —JULIE KAILUS

“It lets you select a playlist from hundreds of songs based on tempo, genres and length. No advertisements, no random slow songs and no hours spent compiling a playlist that goes stale after a few runs.”

FAVORITE RUNNING SHIRT USA T-shirt

“Some say clothes don’t inspire, but I swear I run faster and stay cooler in my Team USA shirt than I do in any other. It’s a Nike performance-style, slim-fit T-shirt that I bought at the Olympic Training Center. Go USA!”

FAVORITE LOCAL CAFFEINE FIX Ziggi’s coffee Multiple locations ziggiscoffee.com

“I definitely enjoy a cup of coffee an hour before or after a run, especially on the weekend.”

FAVORITE LOCAL HANGOUT Left Hand Brewing 1265 Boston Ave., Longmont lefthandbrewing.com

“They have a weekend running group, great beer and people with similar interests, all in a friendly, lodge-like atmosphere.”

Caitlin Anderson

Kevin Stanowick

FAVORITE RUNNING APP RockMyRun

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Trailhead MOUNTAIN WEST

by the numbers

Years since former pro triathlete Nicole DeBoom introduced the world to the now-ubiquitous running skirt through her Coloradobased company Skirt Sports. Number of upcoming Winter Distance Series races in Littleton, Colo., the Santa Stampede 5K/10K on Dec. 20; Frosty’s Frozen Five and Ten on Jan. 15; and the Snowman Stampede 5- and 10-Miler on Feb. 21. Minutes between ultrarunner Rob Krar’s second-fastestever winning time (16:09:32) and Arvada, Colo.-based Michael Aish’s second place finish at Colorado’s Leadville 100 in August.

Commerce City, CO

This greenway runs nearly 14 miles through parts of northeast Denver that few may know exist. Designed to return land to its native habitat, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway is considered a piece of “wilderness in the city.” This accessible trail with plenty of forgiving terrain is ideal for escaping the rat race without driving to the mountains. From the west, the path—a combination of pavement, crusher gravel and sidewalk—starts at the junction of the 28-mile South Platte Greenway in Commerce City. As it meanders through the beauti-

buzz worthy!

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ful Stapleton neighborhood to Aurora in the east, it eventually meets the 66-mile High Line Canal Trail, another popular urban trail system. In addition to vast views, there are plenty of biological backdrops along the way, including the Pepper Riparian Area, three nature centers, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, a conservation center and an urban farm. To experience running on the greenway for an environmental cause, watch for updates on the third-annual Race for Open Space 5K/10K/Half Marathon in the spring. sandcreekgreenway.org —J.K.

The notable exponential growth in the nation’s largest road running races over the last 13 years, including the 40,000-strong Bolder Boulder 10K.

Pounds of unhealthy weight of 63-year-old Shirlee Webb, a mom of eight from Utah, before she found running and qualified for the Boston Marathon three times after turning 60.

Reflecting a growing demand for longer-distance running races, the U.S. Snowshoe Association has approved the addition of half marathon and marathon events to its National Snowshoe Championship Program this winter. It remains to be seen if top snowshoe race destinations like Colorado’s Beaver Creek Resort will follow suit, but watch for more endurance-on-snow events in the near future. snowshoeracing.com

John Fielder

Sand Creek Regional Greenway

10/15/14 5:31 PM

RACE READY MOUNTAIN WEST

MUST-DO RACES ROCK 'N' ROLL LAS VEGAS MARATHON & 1/2 MARATHON

Nov. 14–16; Las Vegas runrocknroll.competitor.com/ las-vegas Can you think of anything more fun than running your legs off, then partying your buns off on the Vegas Strip? If not, head to this annual Rock 'n' Roll event in Sin City, benefiting the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. The weekend has turned into an all-out bash with a festive pre- and postrace scene, health and fitness expo, and live music. There are distances suited for runners of all levels, including a “half of half” marathon (or roughly a 10K) and a 5K. It’s also been confirmed that rapper Snoop Dogg will be performing at the start-line festival stage and Meb Keflezighi will be leading a 1:45 pace group.

BLACK FRIDAY 5K

WINTER SUN 10K

Nov. 28; Centennial, Colo. runningguru.com/ EventInformation. asp?eID=BlackFriday

Some desert sunshine is provided at Moab’s popular winter 10K race. “We don’t anticipate any changes for the event this year, other than we’re hoping not to have 8 inches of snow on the ground,” race director Ranna Bieschke says with a laugh about last year’s unexpected weather. Part of a town triple crown running series, the Winter Sun’s point-to-point, mostly flat and downhill 10K course takes in majestic mountain views from the Moab Golf Club, finishing with a spectator-friendly lap around the track at Grand County High School.

• A nice alternative to the traditional turkey trot, this 5K—part of the chip-timed South Suburban Parks and Recreation District Race Series—will burn off that last leg of turkey, or even a little post-shopping stress. The flat, out-and-back, crusher-trail course runs along the scenic High Line Canal and deKoevend Park, ending with a short downhill sprint to the finish. The dogand family-friendly event also features a special entry rate for kids 15 and under, music, fitness challenges, children’s activities and some tasty post-race carbs from the Great Harvest Bread Co. To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Lester Cacho; courtesy of Action Sports Images

Dec. 6; Moab, Utah moabhalfmarathon.com/ wintersun

10/16/14 1:57 PM

MY FAVORITE THINGS NORTHEAST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE RESTAURANT Olive Garden Multiple locations olivegarden.com

FAVORITE DISH Olive Garden’s manicotti FAVORITE DESSERT PLACE Bonomos Dari Creme 7589 State Route 5, Kirkland, N.Y. bonomosdc.com

“It’s a place nearby. They have the best ice cream in town.”

FAVORITE ICE CREAM Cookie dough

SIT DOWN WITH11-year-old Jason Robinson for 5 minutes, and it becomes obvious this kid is on a mission and isn’t going to let any obstacle get in his way. The Westmoreland, N.Y., resident was born with Spina Bifida, which limits the movement of his legs and impairs his ability to walk. But this challenge doesn’t stop Jason or even slow him down. He’s dreaming big. “My biggest goal is to become a Paralympian,” he says proudly. “I’ve always watched the games on television, and I remember turning to my mom, saying ‘I want to be one of those people someday; I want to be the best; I want to win a gold medal. That would be awesome.’” Since he was 4 years old, Jason has been attending the Boilermaker 15K in Utica, N.Y., watching the thrilling wheelchair racers from the sidelines. However, that wasn’t enough for him. He wanted to be in the race.

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Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Jason’s classmates at Westmoreland Elementary School, the Robinson family was able to purchase a racing wheelchair for him and he competed in last year’s race, clocking in at 1:13. In the next two to five years, Jason hopes to build up mileage so he can tackle a marathon. He’s currently training on the roads three days a week and has been branching out by competing in other races such as the Falmouth Road Race on Cape Cod, Mass., which he said was extremely challenging due to the hills on the course. “I think that Jason can do whatever he sets his mind to,” says his mother, Erin, who leads the J-Rob Foundation, a nonprofit committed to providing adaptive sporting equipment for children with physical disabilities. “I have seen him have that attitude about him since he was born. There isn’t any “can’t” in Jason.” —DUNCAN LARKIN

FAVORITE SONG “The Man” by Aloe Blacc FAVORITE SPORTS HERO Paralympian Tatyana McFadden, multiple winner of the Chicago, Boston and New York City marathons

Donna Petrie

Jason Robinson

FAVORITE MOVIE Percy Jackson Sea of Monsters

10/15/14 5:39 PM

Trailhead NORTHEAST

by the numbers The American Heart Association’s goal to improve the cardiovascular health of all Americans by the year 2020. Proceeds from the Haddon Holiday Heart Run on Dec. 13 in New Jersey will help the Association in meeting this goal.

Runners who registered for this year’s Nittany Valley Half Marathon in State College, Pa., on Dec. 7. According to organizers, due to wintry conditions on the day of last year’s race only 666 runners were able to finish.

Santas will be running the Santa Claus Shuffle on Dec. 6 in Manchester, N.H. Runners who sign up for this festive, 3-mile event are given Santa suits as part of the pre-race swag.

Philadelphia

Just about any weekend of the year, many runners who live near Wissahickon Valley Park turn to one of the most beautiful trails in the city for their long run—a 7-mile path called Forbidden Drive. Though its name sounds ominous, nothing could be further from the truth. The wide gravel path winds along the banks of the city’s Wissahickon Creek. The creek’s steep ravines, gushing waterfalls and unique geological formations give runners plenty to look at.

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As an added bonus, a challenging singletrack network of trails runs alongside the main path. “There are miles and miles of technical trail on either side of Forbidden Drive that snake up and down the gorge,” says Mike Rinard, manager of the Philadelphia Runner store in Center City. “You can easily put together 15- to 20-mile runs without repeating any trails, and it is all runnable.” phillyrunners.org/forbidden.html —D.L.

Days old (or 78 years) that the Manchester Road Race will be on Nov. 27. This annual 4.748-mile race kicks off in Manchester, Conn., and boasts a field of 15,000 participants.

Or 10 quintillion, is the estimated number of water molecules in a snowflake. There may be a lot of these on the course at the Winter Wonder Run 6K, a cross-country race held at the Institute Woods in Princeton, N.J., on Dec. 6.

On the second Wednesday of every month, Mike Collins, the regional director of Nova Care and a licensed physical therapist, volunteers his time at the Chester County Running store in West Chester, Pa. Collins offers a free injury-prevention clinic to runners at 7 p.m on a first-come-firstserve basis. So attend his next clinic on Nov. 12 and stay injury-free. runccrs.com

Duncan Larkin

Forbidden Drive

10/15/14 5:39 PM

RACE READY NORTHEAST

MUST-DO RACES HOT COCO 5K

Nov. 22; Cheshire, Conn. jbsports.com/?page_id=5112 With an average low temperature of 36 degrees at this time of year in Cheshire, this annual race is aptly named. All participants receive a welcoming cup of delicious hot chocolate at the finish line. A portion of the flat and fast course runs along the Farmington Canal, a historic waterway that dates back to 1821. Many of the runners in this race will have received a complimentary entry thanks for their efforts in raising at least $100 for the Abilities Without Boundaries nonprofit organization.

Nov. 23; Philadelphia philadelphiamarathon.com/ races/marathon • A perfect running tour of the famed City of Brotherly Love, this marathon begins in front of the storied Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, where the iconic movie scene of Rocky running up those same steps was shot. The course takes participants through some of the city’s most well-known neighborhoods, including Fairmont Park. Throughout the second half of the race, it also sends runners along the idyllic Schuylkill River and into the hip city of Manayunk. Those not interested in the full marathon can participate in the half or a shorter 8K held the day before.

GMAA TURKEY TROT Nov. 27; Burlington, Vt. gmaa.net/schedule. php?raceid=TT2014

This turkey trot will celebrate an impressive 38 consecutive years of racing in November. Unlike many Thanksgiving races that take place on the roads, this festive race is run on the University of Vermont’s women’s cross-country course with soft turf and welcoming cinder track. The entry fee is a meager $5 or food donation that goes directly to the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf. In keeping with the race’s simplicity, results are not recorded and prizes go out to the top three male and female runners.

To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Courtesy of Abilities Without Boundaries; Pat Hendrick Photography

PHILADELPHIA MARATHON

10/15/14 5:39 PM

MY FAVORITE THINGS NORTHWEST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE TRAINING SHOES

“I have two. I really like to race in the Nike Zoom Wildhorse, and the Altra Olympus is also a favorite of mine.”

FAVORITE RUNNING GEAR Patagonia Houdini Jacket “That’s all I need.”

FAVORITE WORKOUT

AS DIRECTOR OF strategic planning and communication for Citigroup, Todd Janssen, now 46, had spent a fair bit of time living in Denver, Japan and finally New York. However, he was growing tired of the corporate world. So in 2008, he took a risk, decided to forgo security and moved to Portland without another job lined up. In Portland, Janssen began race directing here and there and even started a chip timing company. One thing led to another, and eventually he founded Go Beyond Racing with Trevor Hostetler and Renee Seker. The company, which officially launched last year, offers trail races and series, a marathon in Portland’s Forest Park and a 24-hour relay. “I started working with Renee and Trevor and we thought, ‘Hey, let’s just start our own company and do races,’” Janssen says. “I’m doing that fulltime now, and that’s my only job.” Delving into Janssen’s background, it’s easy to see why he eventually found himself working in the running industry full-time. He ran his first marathon at the age of 16, and became heavily involved in adventure racing while he worked for Citigroup.

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He was even the token tall, blond “white guy” running races in Japan, such as the Kasumigaura Marathon, which earned him a lot of curious looks. “I’m 6 feet, 3 inches—kind of huge, anyway, with blond hair. It’s a weird thing for them to see. They’d be like, ‘Oh wow!’ But not in a bad way— not in a negative way,” he says with a laugh. Now that Janssen is overseeing races, he doesn’t do much racing himself anymore. But he still runs and mountain bikes regularly, often while marking courses or performing a number of other race directing duties. These duties also include doing his best to bring the sort of professional approach you see in road racing to the trail-racing world. During a recent race that was interrupted by a typhoon, Janssen and his co-workers were able to swiftly and safely evacuate their racers. “People were really shocked, actually, that we were able to pull it off,” he says. Of course, the chances of a Go Beyond Racing event getting cancelled because of a typhoon are extremely slim, but it’s not surprising when Janssen approaches a race participant with a Popsicle or ice cream at the finish. “We try to make it personalized,” he says. —COURTNEY BAIRD

FAVORITE LOCAL TRAIL

“In Portland, the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park, which is kind of cliché. In the Columbia Gorge, the Eagle Creek Trail.”

FAVORITE PLACE TO GET A BEER Lucky Labrador Brewing Company Multiple locations luckylab.com

FAVORITE POST-RACE MEAL “I shouldn’t want to have it, but I love getting a cheeseburger and an IPA.”

FAVORITE RACE FUEL Salted caramel, vanilla and strawberry banana Gu, and Gu Recovery Brew

Paul Nelson

Todd Janssen

“A two-hour workout that consists of an hour mountain bike ride that is pretty hard and fast, followed by an hour run.”

10/15/14 5:46 PM

Trailhead northwest

by the numbers

Age of high school runner Alexa Efraimson of Camas, Wash., who is giving up one year of prep and college eligibility after recently signing a contract to run professionally for Nike.

Cities participating in the National Veterans Day Run on Nov. 16. The race in Seattle starts at 7:11 a.m., in Portland, Ore., at 4:11 p.m. and in Spokane, Wash., at 8:11 a.m.

Kenmore, WA

This state park is only 15 minutes from downtown Seattle, but once you’re there, you’d never know you were so close to bustling city life. “The most unique thing is we’re just outside of Seattle, but it’s like you’re four hours away,” says Mohammad Mostafavinassab, a park ranger. “It’s as if you went for a drive for hours and hours. You flip that switch off, and it’s like, ‘Oh my God, I’m outside!’” Popular among the Seattle-area cross-country teams, St. Edward State Park features a seemingly endless number of well-maintained trails spread

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across 316 acres.“You could virtually run a different path every day,” Mostafavinassab says. The park also includes 3,000 feet of Lake Washington shoreline, and several of the trails provide runners visual access to the water. In addition to running, visitors can picnic, swim, boat, fish or visit the park’s special facilities, such as the Grotto, a secluded garden, and The Grand Dining Hall, which is held within the park’s Seminary building, once home to the Sulpician Order of Catholic priests from 1931 to 1977. parks.wa.gov/577/Saint-Edward —C.B.

Events in the Grass Lawn Park Fall 5K Series in Redmond, Wash. The final event in the series is on Nov. 12. The price to enter is $10.

Light displays runners will see at the Portland Winter Wonderland of Lights event on Nov. 29, which features a 2-, 4- and 6-mile run.

Bike valets at running events—where participants are able to travel to and from a race via a loaned bike, alleviating traffic and unwanted carbon emissions—have been getting a lot of buzz lately. Big events such as the San Francisco Marathon and the Los Angeles Marathon will be offering the service to their participants. If you’re a northwest-area runner interested in trying out the bike valet at a large race, the 2015 Rock 'n' Roll Portland Half Marathon is teaming up with Go By Bike to offer it in May. gobybikepdx.com

Rosetta Greek Photography

St. Edward State Park

10/15/14 5:46 PM

RACE READY NORTHWEST

MUST-DO RACES OREGON TURKEYTHON

Nov. 27; Portland, Ore. turkeython.com On a day when everyone overeats, give yourself the gift of at least assuaging the food guilt by participating in a turkeython on Thanksgiving Day. This year, the Oregon Turkeython, which offers a 10K, 5K and 10K Relay, will feature an entirely new course start at Bridgeport Village. Once you’re done burning pre-turkey and stuffing calories, enter your kids in the free kids dash event.

SEATTLE TURKEY TROT

12K’S OF CHRISTMAS

• This turkey trot is known as an informal 5K (the event organizers aren’t even sure that the course is exactly 3.1 miles) that began in 2007 when a few local runners simply wanted to burn some calories together before the massive eating began. The event grew from there, and these days it’s organized by the Ballard Food Bank. All proceeds from the race go toward feeding those in need in the Seattle area.

This year’s 12K features a new course that includes the Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail, providing participants sweeping views of Kirkland with a flatter course than last year. The event, which also features a 5K, culminates at the finish line with a Christmasthemed festival that includes a kids dash, music, free food, a costume contest, vendor booths and a rumored visit from Santa Claus himself. For the adults, the race will also host a Grape Choice Winter Warmer Wine Garden, serving hot mulled and spiced wine as well as other seasonal grownup beverages.

Dec. 21; Kirkland, Wash. promotionevents.com/12Ks/12K_ Info.htm

To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Casey Jeffrey; Courtesy of Pro-Motion Events

Nov. 27; Seattle seattleturkeytrot.org

10/15/14 5:47 PM

MY FAVORITE THINGS PACIFIC WEST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS

FAVORITE TRAINING SHOE Saucony Kinvara FAVORITE RACING SHOE Brooks T7

FAVORITE RUNNING GEAR His running hat

“There’s nothing special about it—it just keeps the sun off my face,” he says. “I don’t race in it, but I’m not without it in my training.”

FAVORITE LOCAL RUN The American River Parkway bike path in Carmichael, Ca.

FOR 53, SACRAMENTO RESIDENT Ian Mickle is fast. Just how fast exactly? Recently, he’s run a 17:01 5K, clocked in 5 minutes for the mile, and ran a 2:38:38 at this year’s Boston Marathon. With times like these, there isn’t any wonder why Iain Mickle, a corporate and securities attorney, won the 2014 Intermediate Masters LongDistance Runner of the Year award for the 50 to 54 age group. “I put a lot of time and effort into it,” Mickle says of his speed. Mickle ran in high school and college, but stopped racing seriously after he entered the working world, got married and had kids. That all changed when he turned 42 and hosted a benefit for the UC Berkeley track and field team at his house. A group of guys at the benefit got him interested in running more seriously again, and introduced him to a series of races hosted by the Pacific Association of USA Track and Field. “Throughout all of this, the most important thing is the power of the group, being with a

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bunch of people who I enjoy being with, who push me and who have workouts we plan to do together,” Mickle says. “Without those guys I could never do it.” The group Mickle seeks motivation from is the River City Rebels, and they meet up regularly on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays for either a track workout or a workout on the grass field. A favorite of his is a 5- to 6-mile tempo run at JohnsonSpringview Park, which features grass, a dirt path and rolling hills. Mickle is also inspired by his daughter, Olivia, who ran collegiately and just joined the Bowerman Track Club in Portland, Ore., where she hopes to launch a successful career as a pro runner. In fact, when they’re in the same city, the two often run and sometimes race together. “I feel extremely lucky to be able to run with her,” says Mickle, who typically runs about 80 miles per week during a big training cycle. “We’re both actually about the same level—it’s just a matter of time before she blows me away.” —COURTNEY BAIRD

“It has beautiful scenery and is marked every half-mile.”

FAVORITE POSTRACE MEAL Burger, fries and a beer FAVORITE MARATHON FUEL A gel or Gu

“I have to force myself to eat it, because my stomach is usually pretty wound up.”

Marathonfoto

Iain Mickle

10/15/14 5:45 PM

TRAILHEAD PACIFIC WEST

BY THE NUMBERS

The dollar figure amount Gameface Media, which provides free race photos, raised in a recent round of funding. The San Francisco Marathon this year worked with the company to become the first big-city marathon to provide free race photos.

The prize purse given out at the Big Sur Half Marathon in Monterey Bay, Calif., held on Nov. 16, which offers prizes to masters and pro runners alike.

MOUNT SHASTA, CA

ALTHOUGH IT’S LOCATED IN the Northern California hinterlands, this trailhead within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is one worth exploring. “In addition to its amazing beauty, what I appreciated most about the trail was its accessibility,” says David Thesell, a NorCal trail runner. “You can access the trail at multiple points, each easily reached from CA Highway 89. Yet, even with it being so easy to get to, I saw very few people, even on a Saturday morning.”

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Most people begin the trail at McCloud River’s Lower Falls, with only about a 4-mile round-trip visit to the trail’s ethereal Middle Falls and Upper Falls. Despite the short distance to these waterfalls, they’re infrequently visited. “While the Lower Falls get plenty of visitors, the remainder of the trail was practically devoid of people. If this is a secret—don’t let it out!” Thesell says jokingly. For a longer run, travel 12 miles from Lower Falls to the Algoma Campground. hikemtshasta.com/ mccloud-river-trails/mccloud-river-falls-trail —C.B.

The earthquake magnitude runners who participated in the Santa Rosa Marathon this past August experienced just hours before rising to race.

The start time of the Illuminations Half on Nov. 22 in Phoenix, which is run on illuminated golf-cart paths.

There are few things that scream “fall” more than cross-country season, and now you can get your kids in on the fun as well. For the first time ever, this year’s San Diego/Imperial USATF Association’s Open and Masters Cross Country Championships held at East Mission Bay Park on Nov. 16 will include a youth race for kids 12 and under. It’s a 2K, so get your kiddos ready to run. sdusatf.org/xc.html

Spencer Dykstra

McCloud River Trail

10/16/14 2:24 PM

RACE READY PACIFIC WEST

MUST-DO RACES MALIBU INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

Nov. 16; Malibu, Ca. malibumarathon.com/indexen.htm It’s hard to think of better running conditions than a relatively flat course with light, salty sea winds and temperatures in the 60s. Barring the rare SoCal rainstorm, these are the most likely conditions at this beach race. Better yet, both the marathon and half marathon courses are run along the historic Pacific Coast Highway, so participants will experience views of Malibu’s famous beaches, mansions and even some sea life. Ice your legs in the cool ocean water for a post-race recovery, and who knows, you may just spy Malibu celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston or Bruce Jenner walking in the waves with you.

Nov. 27; San Diego thanksgivingrun.org

DEATH VALLEY TRAIL MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON

In San Diego on Thanksgiving Day, it’s difficult to tell which is a more popular tradition—eating pumpkin pie or participating in this 13th annual 5K turkey trot held in Balboa Park near downtown. Every year, more than 10,000 runners file into the park to feel the burn in their legs before they feel the heartburn later in the day. In the process, they help feed homeless families and veterans, as all proceeds from the race are donated to the nonprofit Father Joe’s Villages. Even better, Father Joe’s will be selling apple, pumpkin, pecan, strawberryrhubarb and blueberry cream pies for $15 each at the event. Bonne chance and bon appetit!

• A trail race that begins in Beatty, Nev., runs through Titus Canyon and finishes in Death Valley, this marathon’s course meanders along a gravel jeep road in relatively mild temperatures. Prep your quads before you run this race, though, as the marathon begins at 3,460 feet of elevation and ends at 250 feet (the last 14 miles are downhill). The half marathon is approximately 6.5 miles up and then 6.5 miles down.

FATHER JOE’S TURKEY TROT

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From top: Patrice Stephane Fauliau; Courtesy of Father Joe’s Villages

Dec. 6; Death Valley, Ca. envirosports.com

10/16/14 2:25 PM

MY FAVORITE THINGS SOUTH

HERE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE PLACE TO RUN Old Settlers Park in Round Rock

“There’s a nice trail along Old Settlers Boulevard, nice wide sidewalks and great residential roads that are very peaceful.”

FAVORITE LOCAL RACE Austin Half Marathon FAVORITE RUNNING SHOP Fleet Feet Round Rock 3750 Gattis School Rd., Ste. 500, Round Rock fleetfeetroundrock.com

FAVORITE SONG “Eye on It” by Toby Mac

AT 40, SARAH BERG’S PASSION for running is only superseded by her devotion to her family. That’s why she jumped at the chance to merge recreational and familial interests at the Austin Half Marathon earlier this year in February. Thanks to a little inspiration from her 7-year-old son, Trevor, Berg trained for the 13.1-mile journey to help raise money for the Children’s Heart Foundation’s (CHF) Texas Chapter. Berg’s involvement with CHF starts with Trevor. Born with five different heart defects, he lives a life filled with open-heart surgeries. CHF was an obvious place for Berg to turn to, with its mission of funding research to advance the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of congenital heart defects. Upon moving from Florida to Round Rock, Texas, in 2011, however, she discovered there was not a state chapter established yet. “It was nerve-racking and I was terrified, but determined,” Berg says about starting the chapter. “You can’t pass up an opportunity to start something like that, so we have been learning as we go and doing anything and everything to spread awareness about congenital heart defects, especially to raise money toward research.” With no fundraiser too big or small, Berg leads the

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CHF Texas Chapter in organizing activities ranging from charity walks to silent auctions. “I would love to be able to say that this is the last surgery Trevor is going to need and that the technology is out there to prolong his life without extreme intervention,” she explains. “Every heart mom and heart family wants that for their children and once you’ve experienced this firsthand, you don’t want anyone else to go through it.” As a runner, having her organization selected as one of the charities in partnership with the Austin Gives Miles program organized in conjunction with the Austin Marathon was a perfect fit. CHF rounded up a team of runners, including Berg, and they set out to fundraise and train for the marathon and half marathon earlier this year. “I thought, ‘I don’t know if I will ever get the chance to run for my own charity and my own child again.’ So I couldn’t miss that opportunity,” Berg says. “For me, it was a physical way to show my support, although it was nothing compared to what Trevor and the other children have been through.” With plans to recruit more runners and raise more money, Berg hopes that this is only the beginning and that the CHF Texas Chapter will have an even larger presence at the race next year. —MACKENZIE LOBBY

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q

2400 N. IH-35, Round Rock rudys.com

FAVORITE MIDRACE FUEL Island Boost Passion Fruit Gel

“I can tell it works during a race because I always feel replenished.”

Courtesy of Sprout Imagery

Sarah Berg

“It’s about keeping your eye on the prize, and it reminds me of the big goal of crossing the finish line.”

10/15/14 5:49 PM

TRAILHEAD SOUTH

BY THE NUMBERS

The amount raised in 2014 through the Crescent City Classic 10K charity program held in New Orleans.

Finishing time for Christian Perez of Waco, Texas, who placed third in the 18–19 age group at the 2014 ITU Duathlon World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain.

Years the Cajun Cup 10K on Nov. 8 has been held in downtown Lafayette, La.

Big Bend National Park

Minutes that Nicole Studer of Dallas shaved off of her own 2013 time at this year’s USA 100 Mile Trail Championships to defend her Rocky Raccoon 100 Mile title.

BREWSTER COUNTY, TX

BUZZ WORTHY!

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back route with 1,200 feet of climbing. This may seem like a short run, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in elevation gain. Since desert temperatures can reach 120 degrees in the summer, this area is best for fall and winter running excursions. Keep in mind that with trails of varying levels of difficulty, this is a remotely wild place, which may require a map, compass and perhaps even a running buddy. For those interested in exploring the adjoining 310,000 acres of Big Bend Ranch State park, consider signing up for the Buena Suerte 50 Miler or the Quick Silver 30K held in January. bigbend50.com —M.L.

Year the Lubbock-based West Texas Running Club was founded.

Scholarship money presented to local high school runners this year at the New Orleans Track Club’s Anniversary Race.

In search of a new challenge? Next spring, join a group of athletes running 100 back-to-back marathons from California to Washington, D.C., by running border-to-border across Louisiana. Starting in late March, this event challenges runners to complete 52 miles in four days throughout Bayou country all the way to the border of Arkansas. Along the way, runners will visit local schools with a mission of inspiring health and fitness. raceacrossusa.org/races/race-across-louisiana

Hans de Grys

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR a vast expanse of land for your next run, consider making a trip to Big Bend National Park in the Chihuahuan Desert of west Texas. Larger than the state of Rhode Island, this national park is made up of 801,163 acres of hills, mountains, mesas, ponderosa pine and plenty of amazing views. Named after the large bend the Rio Grande takes along the Texas-Mexico border, runners will encounter deeply cut canyons and imposing limestone formations in the park. At mile marker five off of Basin Road, the Lost Mine Trail takes you on a 4.8-mile round-trip, out-and-

10/15/14 5:49 PM

RACE READY SOUTH

MUST-DO RACES MUD CHALLENGER Nov.15; Houston mudchallenger.com

This race is all about friends, fun, beer and, of course, mud. Setting this mud run apart from the rest, obstacles and even the race distance are kept secret until race day. While the event ranges from 3 to 6 miles, the terrain and obstacles dictate whether the race is shorter or longer. Obstacles include everything from an ice tank gauntlet to a quicksand pit, a lake jump and a cargo net trap. Afterward, finishers are rewarded with a post-race party. Cold beer, gourmet food trucks, live bands and plenty of revelry always manage to keep the party going all day long.

Nov. 22; Abbeville, La. • Offering 5K and 10K trail runs, this race invites runners to explore the Live Oak Plantation in Abbeville. Showcasing the natural beauty of the area, it provides a unique alternative to pavement-pounding road races. Run on mostly grass and gravel terrain, the course is non-technical and accessible to runners of every experience level. Additionally, proceeds from the event go to Hearts of Hope, a nonprofit agency that assists children and adults who have been victims of sexual abuse and sexual assault.

ROCK 'N' ROLL SAN ANTONIO MARATHON & 1/2 Dec. 6–7; San Antonio runrocknroll.competitor.com/sanantonio

If you’re gunning for a PR, this Rock 'n' Roll event offers a flat and fast course. Whether you’re an out-oftowner or a local, this race provides a fascinating tour of all San Antonio has to offer. Taking runners past important landmarks, including the River Walk, the King William District, San Fernando Cathedral, the Alamo and a number of other historic missions, it’s an ideal way to see the city. Furthermore, a new Saturday 10K course has been added as part of the Remix Challenge, in which participants who complete two days of running during the Rock 'n' Roll race weekend will receive a third Remix Challenge medal. To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Courtesy of Fathom Producers; Rick Kern

RUN LIVE OAK

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MY FAVORITE THINGS SOUTHEAST

HERE ARE A FEW OF HER FAVORITE THINGS FAVORITE PLACE TO RUN South Beach and Key Biscayne

“A great route I have here is to go to South Beach and then to Key Biscayne and through Bill Baggs Park. I really enjoy that trail.”

FAVORITE RACING FUEL Gu

“I like the Salted Caramel or Lemon Lime flavors.”

FAVORITE POST-RUN CRAVING Water or a smoothie FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Katana Japanese Restaurant 920 71st St., Miami Beach fl-news.com/ katana

FAVORITE THING ABOUT RUNNING IN MIAMI

ALYSON VENTI MAY HAVE BEEN the women’s winner of this year’s Badwater Ultramarathon, one of the world’s toughest foot races, but her first ultramarathon attempt was anything but ideal. In 2011, the Boston native, who now lives in Miami, entered the Keys 100 in Florida—a 100-mile race from Key Largo to Key West— and ran out of gas halfway through. “I was stupid and didn’t really know what I was doing at all,” says 32-year-old Venti, who has been running since middle school. Determined to make up for underperforming at her first ultramarathon, Venti returned in 2012 and won the race, setting the female division record with a time of 16:07:06. In 2013, after competing in the Keys 50 and setting a courserecord time of 6:51:08, she pointed her running shoes toward Badwater, a grueling 135-mile race from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, Calif. But first, she had to be one of the 100 athletes invited to take part. To qualify, participants have to have finished the race previously or completed at least three 100-mile races within the past 12 months. This meant Venti had less than six months to run two more 100-mile races

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before the February application deadline. At the time, she was also in the middle of finishing her doctorate in chemical oceanography at the University of Miami. Thus, Venti signed up for her first trail race, the New Hampshire’s Ghost Train 100 later that October—which she won—and in January of this year she won the Long Haul 100 in Land-OLakes, Fl., as well as set the course record. Applying with the bare minimum required, Venti gained entry into Badwater and began running up to 250 miles a week, in between labs and classes, to train for the mid-July event. In May 2014 she ran the Keys 100 once more, logging a time of 14:42:45—the second-fastest 100-mile time ever by an American woman. “That gave me a lot of confidence going into Badwater, but I was really nervous. I’d never run that distance before. I’d never run in the mountains before, it was a completely new experience for me,” says Venti, who finished eighth overall in 28:37:28. “Part of me had hopes of placing really high up and part of me just wanted to finish the race. I think I would have been happy with anything in between.” —GIANNINA SMITH BEDFORD

FAVORITE LOCAL RACE The Keys 100

“It’s a beautiful course. You couldn’t ask for anything nicer than running down the Keys on those causeways with the water that is so crystal blue.”

FAVORITE RUNNING SHOE Pearl Izumi N2

FAVORITE HOBBY Surfing

“I love going to the beach and surfing, but unfortunately there aren’t a lot of waves here in Miami.”

Bob Schnell

Alyson Venti

“The running community is really a family. You always see them out there and everyone is always cheering each other on. It’s really supportive, and it’s really inspiring and motivating.”

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TRAILHEAD SOUTHEAST

BY THE NUMBERS Number of feet across Treasury Street in St. Augustine, Fla., touted as the narrowest street in the U.S. Walk, the famed thoroughfare that takes place after the St. Augustine Half Marathon on Nov. 16.

Spots available in the Tortoise and the Hare 50K on Nov.15 in Blue Ridge, Ga. This event aims to have both fast and slow runners finish at (approximately) the same time.

Calories the average American will consume on Thanksgiving Day, according to the Calorie Control Council. Run at least some of the calories off at the Five Star Turkey Trot 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon on Nov. 27 in Johns Creek, Ga.

ORLANDO, FL

THIS TRAIL TRAVELS THROUGH a variety of residential communities in Seminole County, including Oviedo, Winter Springs, Longwood and Lake Mary. Used by locals for foot travel and as a place to exercise, the trail is made up of three separate sections that will eventually connect to create a 23-mile continuous route. Currently the open sections already offer more than 18 miles and connect to other area rail-trails, such as the 14-mile Seminole Wekiva Trail to the west and 6-mile Cady Way Trail to the south. Sections of the trail are designated as part of

BUZZ WORTHY!

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the Florida National Scenic Trail, and, despite the urban landscape, the route features plenty of wildlife viewing points along the way. Take a break in one of the many shady sections and look out for points of interest like Big Tree Park, home of “Lady Liberty,” a 2,000-year-old bald cypress tree. Spring Hammock Preserve is another off-road scenic stop where you can stroll through cypress forests on a boardwalk to Lake Jesup. Restrooms, parking and water can also be found at most of the trailheads. seminolecountyfl.gov/parksrec/trails_streetscapes/ trails_crosssem.aspx —G.S.B.

Inches in a quarter-mile, the distance traveled by “mini gladiators” at the Mini Gladiator Obstacle Course on Nov. 15, part of the Gladiator Challenge Youth Adventure Race in Tallahassee, Fla.

People expected to compete in, volunteer at and watch a Chosen race in 2014. The nonprofit’s four races— including the Tampa Half Marathon on Nov. 15—benefit orphans and adoptive families worldwide.

Orlando-based Race Joy is popping up at events across the nation, including Florida’s Fort Myers Marathon on Nov.9. The free mobile app for iPhones, iPads and Android devices offers race participants and supporting spectators interactive features such as instant results, live GPS phone tracking, progress alerts, audio cheer clips and more. Now there’s no excuse for missing a loved one at the finish line! racejoy.com

Erin Maciejewski

Cross Seminole Trail

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RACE READY SOUTHEAST

MUST-DO RACES ATLANTA HALF MARATHON AND THANKSGIVING DAY 5K

Nov. 27; Atlanta atlantahalfmarathon.org Earn your turkey and pumpkin pie at this race, which has become a holiday tradition. The event, hosted by the Atlanta Track Club, is one of the largest half marathons in the U.S. Start the 13.1-mile race just outside Turner Field in downtown Atlanta and take in views of Centennial Olympic Park, Atlantic Station, Piedmont Park, Oakland Cemetery and the iconic Olympic Rings along the course. The festive race also includes a 5K, Mashed Potato Mile and Gravy Gallop, ensuring that runners of all levels (and ages) can participate.

HILL COUNTRY TRAIL RACE 15K AND 5K

ST. AUGUSTINE HALF MARATHON

Nov. 22; Palmetto, Ga. hillcountrytrailrace.com

This trail race is a great excuse for a visit to the quaint Serenbe community, situated about 30 miles southwest of Atlanta. The 15K and 5K courses travel the private trails of the 900-acre community, which was designed according to environmentally sustainable principles. The beginner-to-advanced trail takes you through woods and past a waterfall before crossing open pastures into the town center. Post-race, stick around for a stroll through Serenbe’s quaint shops or visit The Hil restaurant for a feast of delicious farm-fresh cuisine. Doors open early at 10 a.m. for hungry race participants.

• In an effort to appeal to the entire family, this event offers a free kids’ race, 5K, 10K and half marathon that travels through the historic environs of St. Augustine’s Old City. Begin the 13.1 miles near the Castillo de San Marcos, then make your way across the Bridge of Lions and around Anastasia State Park before heading back to the center and finishing at Francis Field. Participants receive a T-shirt and commemorative finisher’s medal along with post-race food and refreshments. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city’s storied streets. To submit regional content, email epolachek@competitorgroup.com

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From top: Courtesy of Atlanta Track Club; Jason Brewer

Nov. 16; St. Augustine, Fla. staugustinemarathon.com

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i’macompetitor

not-your-everyday runner

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More about jana

Jana Kramer

to see photos of celebrities who run!

By Allison Pattillo

With her recently released single “Love” climbing the charts, a busy touring schedule and an album in the works, award-winning country artist Jana Kramer has a lot to think about, which is exactly why she likes to run. Running has been a constant outlet for the 30-year-old Michigan native who’s now a successful actress in Los Angeles—you may recognize her as Alex Dupree from “One Tree Hill”—and a musician in Nashville, Tenn. We caught up with Kramer between gigs and even got a glimpse of her competitive side.

When did you start running? I was probably 8 years old when I started. It was something we did as a family, but it took me until my teen years to actually like it. There was a 2-mile circle around my subdivision in Michigan. I got to the point where I would do two laps. Now I really like slow, steady runs because they give me time to think and clear my mind. Even if I don’t feel like running, I know I’m always happier for doing it. How does running fit into your touring schedule? I’ve made runs and walks mandatory for the whole band. At first they complained—a lot! But now they

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like it. You can spend a lot of time sitting around on tour. It feels so much better to move, and it’s a great way to see the places where we’re playing. I’ll also run on a treadmill if I need to. I actually like them. Seeing the clock pushes me to go faster. What’s it like knowing people have your songs on their running playlists? It’s so cool! I love knowing I’m helping others to get healthy and fit. I’ve heard you do something called “Meet-and-Competes.” What are they? I’m a really competitive person and love playing

Gear to Go

Lululemon ¾ running pants are comfy, cute and don’t stink.

Tunes or No Tunes?

I prefer no music when I run. It gives me time to process and think through ideas; it’s time for myself. But sometimes I need a musical boost!

games. We carry games with us on the bus because I like to play games before shows. And it turned into a fun way to connect with fans. Instead of meet-and-greets, we do Meet-and-Competes and play Ping Pong, Cornhole and Jenga.

Post-run Chow

Have you run a race? I did my first half marathon, the Country Music Half Marathon in Nashville, in 2011. I always told myself I couldn’t run more than 6 miles. So I decided I would run the first half then walk the rest of the way. My brain was saying no, but my body felt great. The power of the crowd and music really helped carry me to the finish line.

Percy Warner Park in Nashville is my home base. I love trails and being in nature. It’s just you and the woods. Although I played at Red Rocks in Colorado last year and it was beautiful—I want to go back there and run.

My favorite is a banana with peanut butter for the sugar and protein.

Favorite Place to Run

Scott Draper

Click here

10/20/14 5:32 PM

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