Missouri Runner and Triathlete - Fall 2015

Fall 2015

Volume 13, Number 4

Simpson, Willis Win NYRR 5th Avenue Mile

FALL SHOE GUIDE

EVAN JAGER: Getting Ready for Rio

Evan Jager PhotoRun.net

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ON THE COVER: Evan Jager, 26, from Algonquin, IL, is the current American record holder with his 8:00.45 in the 3000m steeplechase.

Photo by PhotoRun.net www.morunandtri.com

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

There’s No Place Like Home It’s mid-September, and I’m back home in my Wisconsin farmhouse. It was built in 1905 and moved to a city lot in 1948. The last two years have gone by quickly with much change. I resigned from the Running Network in December 2013, then negotiated the purchase of it in August 2014. Along with my son, Adam, my brother, Brian, and our team of Alex Larsen (design) and Chuck Bartlett (web), the five of us are pursuing a crazy dream: developing a global group of websites and magazines. I spend part of my time in Europe, some in California, and now, one week a month in Wisconsin. I have missed the quiet of my little house and I love the time with my parents in California. They’ve supported me through thick and thin, and now at 57, they have their oldest back in the house for a week or two each month.

I recently returned from China where the World Championships were amazing to watch. The locals were very nice to me, and as curious about me as I was about them.

For two weeks I had more vegetables to eat than I thought possible, and my (diabetic) blood sugar was the lowest it’d been in months! My walks around Beijing were daily adventures, especially walking back through the quiet stadium at 2 a.m. many mornings, where I’d say hello to a nice Chinese soldier who stood at attention each night from midnight until 6 a.m. without a break. Kind gestures go a long way in making our world a better place. He’d open the gate for me and say hello back. It will be one of my most enduring memories of China.

Last month in Sacramento I enjoyed a coaching clinic lead by Ben Rosario, who now coaches Northern Arizona Elite. Rosario’s a runner from our fine state who’s taken his elite skills and developed national champions on the roads and in cross country. Watch for a Northern Arizona Elite runner to make a name for him- or herself in the U.S. Olympic Trials next February.

Missouri Runner and Triathlete came back to life thanks to my faithful designer, writers, and editors. We hope you enjoy our fall issue. It’s full of stories on our global sport, plus some timely information on the sport in the “Show Me State.”

Please pass our magazine along—we’d love to see some new readers! And stay tuned for our winter issue, to be available in November.

Enjoy cross country season.

Larry Eder Publisher, Missouri Runner and Triathlete Publishing Director, FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Available at your local run specialty store.

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SHOE REVIEW

by Cregg Weinmann

Cross Country Shoes Fall 2015 With fall right around the corner, it’s time to put your summer cross country training program to the test. Here to get your adrenaline pumping is our review of the latest and best racing shoes available for your upcoming cross country season. We feature six updated shoes for your consideration. In finding the brand that best fits your foot, your first stop should be at a specialty running store. As we’ve said for almost two decades, remember to ease into wearing them before your first cross country meet, adapting to them gradually by wearing them for some of your speed work in the last couple weeks before you begin racing. Look for updated information and additional reviews at runningproductreviews.com, on Facebook at Running Product Reviews and Twitter @shoes2run.

adidas XCS 6 $65 The updated XCS 6 is sweet because, as with each previous round, it’s focused squarely on high performance. Essentially a brawnier version of the adidas distance spikes, Round 6 throws in a few new features to keep the shoe up-to-date. The close-fitting upper uses a cross-hatch of printed overlays called Sprintweb to support the mesh while smoothing the interior and allowing good flexibility to the upper. The low-profile, molded EVA midsole carries over to this round as it’s proven effective for cushioning. The lugged Traxion® outersole grips well in both spikeless and spiked versions, where a six-spike setup adds extra grip. The fit, low profile, and traction of the XCS 6 deserve serious consideration.

Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: Men’s 6.3 oz./6.5 oz. (size 11, spikeless/with 6 spikes); Women’s 5.0 oz./5.2 oz. (size 8, spikeless/with 6 spikes) Fit: Snug throughout

ASICS Cross Freak 2 $85 The Cross Freak, introduced last season and aimed at elite athletes, has been completely revised from top to bottom. The upper is closed, ripstop mesh with laminated no-sew overlays to support the shoe and shed mud when the conditions get sloppy. The new sueded tongue adds comfort to the fit, along with the seam-free interior. The midsole is single-density EVA with co-molded medial and lateral shank supports that meet beneath the outersole. The redesigned outersole is aggressively lugged, with a 5-spike setup to handle the muddiest of conditions. The fit, protection, and traction result in a successfully updated racer.

Sizes: Men 4–13,14; Women 5–10,11 Weight: Men’s 6.9 oz. (size 11, with 5 spikes); Women’s 5.6 oz. (size 8, with 5 spikes) Fit: Snug heel, close forefoot

BEST SHOE

Brooks Mach 17 $100 The Mach series has displayed Brooks’ commitment to top-level competition footwear. Round 17 is a complete overhaul, so only the name and purpose remain. It’s now available only in a spiked version, but takes a jump up in design and execution. The upper is a closed mesh, sleekly designed to hug the foot securely, with a small partial cage of thermoplastic anchoring the heel.

The reshaped midsole is a slender wedge of foam that cushions the foot while keeping the shoe light. The carbon rubber outersole sports small, diamond-shaped lugs down the center of the forefoot and a horseshoe-shaped four-spike plate at the perimeter. A small sharkskin patch in the heel completes the setup. The Mach 17 is, in a word, legit for cross country. In fact, it’s so legit, it won our award for Best Cross Country Shoe.

Cross Country FALL 2015

Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 6–12 Weight: Men’s 5.4 oz. (size 11, with 4 spikes); Women’s 4.3 oz. (size 8, with 4 spikes) Fit: Snug heel, very close forefoot www.morunandtri.com

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New Balance 700 v3 $70/$65 New Balance offers its cross country shoes in three tiers, all of which provide outstanding performance at three budget levels. The entry-level 700 receives some update attention, continuing to narrow the gap among the three tiers. The upper is a closed, stretch mesh with traditional overlays at heel and toe. The remaining support derives from no-sew overlays that make for a smooth, barefoot-friendly interior. The midsole has geometry similar to the v2, but with a bit more refinement and the performance to go with it. The outersole is thin solid rubber, lugged with triangle-shaped molding in the midfoot and heel. The forefoot features chisel points and four spikes in the spiked version ($70), or round nibs in the spikeless version ($65). The result is a well-done cross country racer.

Sizes: Men 7–12, 13,14; Women 5–10,11 Weight: Men’s 5.2 oz./5.4 oz. (size 11, spikeless/with 4 spikes); Women’s 4.1 oz./ 4.3 oz. (size 8, spikeless/with 4 spikes) Fit: Snug heel, close forefoot

Nike Zoom Rival

$65/$50

The Rival is Nike’s entry-level cross country offering, available in spiked (XC, $65) and spikeless (Waffle, $50) versions. The second round nudges this shoe closer to its top-end sibling, the Victory XC, even adopting some of its componentry. The upper is a closed mesh, and as in the Victory, it uses Nike Grind welded overlays to support the shoe while upcycling. The midsole is unchanged: a low-profile layer of Phylon for a measure of protection. The outersole carries over as well, mini waffles and either four spikes or four rounded nibs, which are equally successful on natural surfaces and tracks. The fit is unchanged, close and snug for the racing foot. While aimed at the high school runner, the Zoom Rival is a rock solid cross country racer.

Sizes: Men 4–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: Men’s 7.5 oz./7.7 oz. (size 11, spikeless, wtih 4 spikes); Women’s 6.0 oz./6.2 oz. (size 8, spikeless/with 4 spikes) Fit: Snug heel, close forefoot

Saucony Carrera $110 The Carrera is targeted at elite cross country performers, as it’s the best in Saucony’s good-betterbest offerings. The upper receives significant attention, with improved fit from the ISOfit system, wrapping the foot securely. Here it’s more effectively integrated with the mesh than in other iterations of the technology, which were more cage-like. The midsole is the same single-density EVA, thin and flexible. The outersole continues with the same minimal, full-length plate from Round 1 and a six-spike layout with excellent traction. Round 2 emerges as an effective cross country shoe that has taken a step up in fit and performance.

Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 Weight: Men’s 4.9 oz. (size 11, with 6 spikes); Women’s 4.0 oz. (size 8, with 6 spikes) Fit: Snug heel, close forefoot

Tips for Selecting Cross Country Shoes cross country racing shoes are more alike than they are between spiked and spikeless models should be based on • While • Choosing the racing surfaces you’ll encounter during your season. different, we can’t emphasize enough that the differences in fit and cushioning are crucial to individual comfort and performance.

•

Try on shoes from a variety of shoe companies. Differences in fit from one brand (or model) to the next allow most runners to find a racing shoe best suited for their particular foot type.

factors should influence your selection of a cross country • Two racing shoe: how well it fits you and how it feels when you run in it. your racing shoes before the actual race, since the low profile • Wear of the shoe coupled with the intense effort of racing can be tough

country spikes are slightly better than spikeless shoes at • Cross gripping muddy or soggy ground, but they are limited to use on all-natural courses. In California, they aren’t allowed for cross country at the high school level; however, they are permitted during track season. models work almost as well as traditional spiked shoes in • Spikeless the mud. In addition, they can manage pavement, sidewalks, and rocky surfaces as well as indoor and outdoor tracks.

on your soft tissue if you haven’t prepared well.

Cregg Weinmann is footwear and running products reviewer for FORTIUS Media Group, LLC. He can be reached via email at shuz2run@lightspeed.net Copyright © 2015 by FORTIUS Media Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of FORTIUS Media Group, LLC. Reprinted here with permission.

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Kenyan Sweep at Chicago Marathon

By David Monti of Race Results Weekly Photos by Bank of America Chicago Marathon Chicago – The Windy City lived up to its name, further challenging the elite athletes who competed in the 38th Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 11th. And there was a big change in this event—for the first time in 25 years, there were no pacemakers.

Given the conditions, the men and women contenders responded differently. The men ran cautiously, and race champion Dickson Chumba of Kenya’s winning time of 2:09:25 was the slowest here since 2007. The women, however, ran aggressively, and Kenya’s Florence Kiplagat got her first victory with an impressive 2:23:33. Both Chumba and Kiplagat won $100,000 in prize money, while Kiplagat also earned a $5,000 time bonus.

When the gun went off, the men were in no hurry to get to the finish line in Grant Park, at least by Chicago Marathon standards. Sammy Kitwara, the fastest man in the field with a personal best of 2:04:28, didn’t like the slow pace. He said later it felt like a training run, and it, along with the lack of pacemakers, was affecting his strategy.

The race changed completely between 30 and 35K. Chumba put in a surge, and ran that 5K segment in 14:36, easily the fastest of the race.

“From 30 [kilometers] I tried to push, but the wind was coming,” Chumba told the media after the race. “It was a problem; the wind was coming.”

But the wind proved a bigger problem for the others. While Chumba slowed a bit to 14:51 for the next 5K, that was still good www.morunandtri.com

enough to put 19 seconds on the chasing Kitwara. Chumba kept looking behind him, just in case Kitwara was closing.

“When I looked back, I was looking for Sammy,” Chumba said.

“Maybe he was coming.”

But he wasn’t. Chumba entered the finish straight alone, breaking the tape with arms raised. It was his second Abbott World Marathon Majors victory (he also won in Tokyo in 2014). He lamented later that he was in shape to run faster had there been pacemakers.

In the women’s contest, Kiplagat was content to follow Japan’s Kayoko Fukushi through halfway in an honest 1:10:27. Seven women were in contention, including Ethiopia’s Birhane Dibaba, Yebrgual Melese, and Amane Gobena. Kiplagat was right where she wanted to be.

“I was controlling everything to make sure,” she said.

“More tactics are involved when it comes to a marathon without pacemakers.”

Indeed, Kiplagat controlled the race perfectly. She reached 35K in 1:58:44, and decided she’d waited long enough. She ran the 5K between 35 and 40K in 17:14, and put the race away. She had ample time to enjoy her run to the tape, and after falling to the ground in exhaustion after finishing, she got up and jumped up and down several times, something she said was inspired by her two daughters, Faith (11) and Asha (7).

“I jumped because I love my kids,” she told reporters. “I told them when I win I have to jump. I was jumping because I love my kids very much.” © 2015 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved, used with permission.

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Each pair is created by us, made by the exhausting, exhilarating, unique miles that every runner gets out of them. With a twin cushioning system, plus stability from top to bottom to allow for 360° support, this new version of the 860 will carry you for more—and more memorable—miles than ever. #MadeByMiles FALL 2015

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BEIJING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015:

The Good, the Bad, the Ugly (and the Great)

By Cathal Dennehy Photos by PhotoRun.net

THE GOOD

THE BAD

The Hosts

U.S. Men Botch Baton Change

Beijing can hold its head just as high and proud as it did seven years ago, when the greatest show on earth came to town for the 2008 Summer Olympics and the world was left with a lifetime of good memories. This time the task was smaller, but the hosts did just as well with the IAAF World Athletics Championships.

The locals came to the Bird’s Nest Stadium in droves from the first morning’s action until the last, and things were run with the kind of precision you’d expect from the Chinese. The volunteers were exceptional: polite, deferential, helpful, and—crucially when you’re a foreign writer whose only knowledge of Mandarin is that it’s also a fruit—English-speaking. Kudos to all involved.

In the end, the climactic clash we were all hoping to see was never reached. Just moments before it was all going according to plan, a rerun of the world relays in which the U.S. gained an unassailable lead on Jamaica before the final leg, except with higher stakes. Jamaica was down by 2 meters, and we all knew what— who—was coming next. Perhaps that was the reason Michael Rodgers set off too early and Tyson Gay simply couldn’t get the baton in his hand. Perhaps, as some suggested, it was a little sprinkle of karma for the team which ran three athletes who’ve served doping bans. Either way the race as a contest was ruined, with Usain Bolt cruising home to take yet another gold medal.

China’s Men of Bronze Although the championships had been good, with two nights left in the Bird’s Nest, we writers started to wonder whether we’d have that crucial moment, the one that all events like this have, where the whole place ignites. It finally happened at the men’s 4x100m final, when China took the silver medal. The Bird’s Nest screeched, roared, and cheered their men over the line in a photo finish for third, a noise only exceeded all week by the following moment, when their bronze was confirmed on the scoreboard. China’s bronze was soon upgraded to silver when the U.S. was disqualified for breaking the zone. The silver medal was a just reward for the Chinese squad who’ve made great progress in recent years.

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Kenya’s Marathon Men Standing on the start line of a World Championships marathon, it seems major titles and world records are more of a burden than a boost. It certainly appeared that way for Dennis Kimetto and Wilson Kipsang, who faded timidly out of contention soon after halfway and stepped off the course shortly after the 20-mile mark. Their teammate Mark Korir could only finish a lowly 22nd in 2:21:20, nine minutes behind race winner Ghirmay Ghebreslassie of Eritrea.

Hats off to Kipsang and Kimetto for attending, but it’s hard to imagine they prepared for this race the same way they did for a London or New York marathon. Speaking of which, expect to see them on a marathon start line again this fall, showing up as very different incarnations of themselves from those who toed the line in Beijing.

THE GREAT Taylor’s Historic Leap The stage was set to be a six-round slog between Christian Taylor and Pedro Pablo Pichardo for triple jump supremacy, and that’s exactly how it played out, with only 8cm separating them going into the final round. But then Taylor landed his leap of 18.21m, an effort to which his Cuban rival simply had no response. It was the second longest jump in history, only 8cm behind Jonathan Edwards’ 20-year-old world record.

THE UGLY Huddle’s Horror Run through the line—it’s the advice every athlete, even Molly Huddle, is told in their formative years in the sport. The fact that Huddle didn’t, and as a result lost the 10,000m bronze to teammate Emily Infeld, may haunt her for a long, long time. But Huddle, 30, handled the situation with her typical good grace, even though there was the inevitable pang of remorse in her words. “I just wish I had that one last step,” she said. “That race was an opportunity for someone to medal who might not get that chance again. I didn’t want to mess up on the last lap, and I did. I blew it.”

Eaton’s Final 200m Midway through the 1500m men’s decathlon, Ashton Eaton began to slip off the pace required to break his own world record.

The fans settled back in their seats, their enthusiasm waning a little, given that Eaton had already secured the gold medal, and it appeared he was content just with that. However, the competitor in Eaton took over and when he entered the last 400m, he let it rip.

Doping Duo Found There we were enjoying top-class athletics without the doping cloud blocking our view, when up popped the storm again: two positive test results from Kenyans Joyce Zakary and Koki Manunga. The news came as a reminder that not everything we watched was real.

It’ll likely always be this way, but in a week when Kenya enjoyed a run of dominance across several events—even in previously unconquered territory like the 400m hurdles and javelin—the positive test results cast a shadow on others’ achievements.

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Eaton accelerated into the back straight and by the time he turned for home, he’d pried deep into his near-exhausted energy reserves and churned out his last 200m in 29.6 seconds for a 4:17.52 finish.

His final tally of 9,045 points was a world record, which left him with 350 points to spare over silver medalist Damian Warner.

Super Schippers

Yego’s Monster Throw Julius Yego proved he was anything but a one-hit wonder when he heaved his spear 92.72m in the javelin’s third-round final and took Kenya’s first gold in the event. The 26-year-old’s throw was one of the most jaw-dropping performances of the week, and he was rewarded with an African record and moved to third place on the all-time list.

Twenty-three-year-old Dutch sprinter Dafne Schippers shocked the stadium when she came from behind and took the 200m gold in 21.63 seconds, becoming the third fastest of all time. Until now she’d focused primarily on the heptathlon, but when competing at the Glasgow Diamond League last year, she began to reconsider her future. In Beijing, her decision paid off in style.

Afterward Schippers and her coach, Bart Bennema, faced questions about whether she could be believed in light of other athletes’ failed drug tests. Both dealt with the prying questions admirably. “I know I’m clean and I work very hard for it,” said Schippers. Until someone can come up with something more than running fast as a cause for suspicion, there was little else to be said.

Bolt’s Brilliance The 100m final between Jamaican Usain Bolt and American Justin Gatlin turned into a melodramatic, good-versus-evil battle for the gold. The crowd had an overwhelming desire for Bolt, double Olympic 100m champion who’s never failed a drug test, to come out on top over Gatlin, who’s twice been banned for substance abuse.

While Gatlin showed off with needless exuberance in his qualifying rounds, Bolt saved it all for when it mattered most. When the time came, he kept his head as Gatlin lost his, the American straining for the line with arms flailing wildly, and Bolt grabbed gold by 0.01 seconds in 9.79. The injury-ridden Bolt overcame doubters and beat his controversial rival, also ending Gatlin’s 2015 fastest-man-inthe-world, 28-race winning streak. Bolt still holds the 100m world record at 9.58 seconds.

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Photorun.net

Simpson, Willis Claim Fourth, Third Titles at 5th Avenue Mile

By Chris Lotsbum of Race Results Weekly New York – Experience reigned supreme at the 35th running of the NYRR 5th Avenue Mile, as American Jenny Simpson claimed her fourth title and New Zealander Nick Willis took his third. Both used late kicks to separate from their competition and broke the tape in 4:29.0 and 3:54.8, respectively.

Simpson First Woman in Event History to Record Fourth Victory After a long season that saw Simpson (a) win the USA 1500m national title, (b) narrowly miss setting an American 1500m record in Monaco, and (c) finish a devastating 11th at the IAAF World Championships with only one shoe and a badly bruised left foot, the 29-year-old wanted to conclude her season with a resounding victory at the 5th Avenue Mile. Having raced two days prior in Brussels, Simpson came to New York a bit fatigued, but with more intrinsic motivation than anyone else in the field.

“Anything less than winning here was going to be a disappointment for me, personally, so I said the year would be complete when I really put my nose down and got this one done,” Simpson told members of the media.

At the start line, Simpson and fellow pre-race favorite Shannon Rowbury lined up on opposite sides of the road. Little did anyone

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know that their starting spots nearly played a key factor in the race’s outcome: Rowbury, the American 1500m record holder, narrowly avoided disaster as the television motorcycle stalled at the start.

Quickly darting to her left to avoid a collision, Rowbury went to the front and was joined by Simpson and Heather Kampf.

Through the quarter mile in 68 seconds and halfway in 2:20.3, the entire field was cautiously preparing for a fast second half. First across halfway was 800m specialist Alysia Montano, pacing herself for the $1,000 prime if she could dip under 4:32 at the finish.

As soon as the group began its slight downhill charge for the stripe, Simpson and Rowbury established a modest gap up front.

Susan Kuijken was just behind to their right and Kampf to their left—both battling for podium spots as well. Simpson’s strategy coming in was to wait as long as possible before kicking, and that’s exactly what she did.

With the crowd’s cheers growing, Simpson found an added gear that carried her to finish first in 4:29.0, a mere 0.03 seconds up on Rowbury. With her win, Simpson became the only woman in event history to earn four titles. (Spain’s Isaac Viciosa is the only male to win four, with consecutive crowns from 1995–98.)

“It just felt good the last 15 seconds knowing I was going to be able to grind to the win,” said Simpson, who picked up a $5,000 winner’s check. “Winning here was really important to me.”

Simpson’s victory was even more meaningful considering she

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battled rival Rowbury for supremacy. The pair has raced neck and neck all season long, finishing close week after week. Rowbury is a two-time champion of this race.

“I hope it’s been fun for everyone [to watch] because it’s really hard and really stressful, but I think it’s good for our sport to have us facing [each other] every weekend and battling it out,” said Simpson, noting how she’s always cherished one-on-one rivalries against other athletes. In college she always went up against Sally Kipyego, and when she specialized in the steeplechase, it was Anna Willard. Now it’s Rowbury. “I think it’s good, especially for a race broadcast on ESPN. It makes a great television story to bring to the starting line. I just hope everyone enjoyed it, because it was stressful for me!”

Photorun.net “Jenny got me at the end today!” said Rowbury, sporting her signature pink lipstick. “I figured it’d be the two of us battling for the win, and that’s how it turned out. If I look at the sum of the season, it’s been a big plus!”

While Simpson and Rowbury were happy with their races, their weekends paled in comparison to Kuijken’s. Her third-place podium spot was the sundae cherry on top of a memorable weekend. While pausing by the iconic Central Park reservoir during a run with her boyfriend, Andrew Krumins, he proposed marriage to Kuijken, who said yes.

“It was a beautiful, perfect setting, and I was doing what I love to do most, running, so I couldn’t think of a better time for him to propose!” Kuijken told Race Results Weekly, smiling from ear to ear.

“Now we get to celebrate here in New York!”

Kampf finished fourth in 4:30.2. Rowbury also won the halfway prime (Montano, who led at 880 yards, placed 11th in 4:35.4).

Kampf was followed by Heather Wilson (4:31.7) and Treniere Moser (4:31.9).

Willis Ends Season with Big Victory Having already run this race four times with wins in 2008 and 2013, Nick Willis was considered a seasoned veteran in the men’s field. Well aware of the race’s slightly uphill profile through halfway, the Kiwi sat back comfortably and waited until late to make his winning move.

With the field eight abreast approaching 880 yards, it was Americans Ford Palmer and Riley Masters who surged hard to reach the halfway point first. Palmer, a former football player, led with 2:04, but narrowly missed breaking 4 minutes for the prime bonus, finishing in 4:00.9. The field fell back into form through the kilometer, a giant blur of multicolored singlets taking up one and a half lanes of the roadway.

While a number of athletes in the field had been racing the European circuit in recent weeks, Willis was back in Michigan.

He’d returned home after finishing sixth at the IAAF World Championships, a frustrating performance for the 2008 Olympic

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silver medalist. After acing a grueling 2x800m, 2x400m, and 600m workout earlier in the week, he came to New York with confidence in his kick.

“I knew [that] whatever the pace was I should be ready for anything,” he told Race Results Weekly. “But you’re never licking your chops when Matt Centrowitz is in the race. He’s got a lot of very, very good credentials. It often comes down to who’s more committed at this stage of the season, and he’s raced a lot this year, and I’ve only had three or four races.”

Down the final stretch Willis exemplified what a world-class surge looks like, leaving Centrowitz, past champion Bernard Lagat, and the rest of the field in his wake. Taking over the pole with a vengeance, he extended his lead and raised his arms to pump up the crowd as he approached the finish. Breaking the tape in 3:54.8, Willis tied running legend Peter Elliott with three victories over the iconic Museum Mile stretch.

“It’s a really nice way to finish the season,” said Willis, who lost to Centrowitz at New York’s other iconic mile, the NYRR Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games last February. “I was quite dismayed after what happened in Beijing, so I wanted to make sure I hung my shoes up for the year with a high.”

Britain’s Chris O’Hare took second in 3:55.9, with Norway’s Henrik Ingebrigtsen and USA’s Centrowitz a step behind (both timed 3:56.1, with third place ultimately going to Ingebrigtsen).

Australia’s Ryan Gregson rounded out the top five in 3:56.2.

After two tough races this week—a DNF in Zagreb and a 10th place 3:43.97 showing in Brussels—O’Hare gained a bit of momentum to take into the off-season.

“My other two races were pretty dreadful. Today I felt terrible at the start, but I was, like, ‘Just get in the mix,’ and instincts take over,” he said.

“Everybody’s waiting and waiting, and I wanted to make sure I got a jump in. ... It’s a long last 50 meters though.”

A bit of drama played out regarding the men’s halfway prime, as both Palmer and Masters failed to dip under the required four minutes (4:00.9 and 4:00.2, respecPhotorun.net tively). Next up was Christian Soratos, who missed it by the slimmest of margins, hitting 4:00.0 on the dot. Therefore, the $1,000 went to Garrett Heath, eighth overall in 3:57.3.

Earlier in the day Reed Connor of the New Jersey/New York Track Club and Valentine Kibet of Westchester TC claimed NYRR Road Mile Championship titles in 4:06.2 and 4:47.6, respectively.

Former high school standout Mikey Brannigan placed fifth in the men’s race with 4:09.9. Jenny Simpson’s husband, Jason, was also in that race and finished 14th in 4:13.7.

Most of the elites who ran the NYRR 5th Avenue Mile are now done for the season. © 2015 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved, used with permission.

FALL 2015

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

15

MOTION STABILIZING—3 • PERFORMANCE—4 • NEUTRAL—5

People make the shoes you run in. There are people who design them; people who develop them; people who assemble them; and people who sell them.

We’re the people who get an early look, take the opportunity to test, and then review the shoes that eventually make their way to the stores which sell them to you. We thank you for your trust, and we hope that our efforts are valuable to you. The process of developing the content for our shoe reviews involves a lot of running, meetings, running, phone calls, running, emails, running, research, running, travel, running, writing, and finally, running. If it seems as if there’s a theme about running, you can rest assured that first and foremost, running shoes are about running.

There are improvements in the materials we’re seeing in these shoes, as well as some new approaches, new patents, and the adoption of new practices. What results is a tremendous amount of parity among many of the brands. Because there are so many good shoes, it’s more important than ever to find the shoes which work best for you. I’m frequently asked, “Who makes the best running shoes?” I can honestly say that there are some shoes from each of the brands that work for me. That said, there are some that fit and work better than others, and just like you, I’m always looking for the shoes which work best for me. We’ve said it many times before, and it remains true: Use this guide as a starting point, then try to make your first stop a running specialty store to find the best running shoes for you.

— Cregg Weinmann, Running Shoe Reviewer for the Running Network, LLC

presented by

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MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

FALL 2015

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FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Partners

2015 Fall Shoe Review Welcome to our 2015 Fall Shoe Review, your guide to some of the best running shoes in the marketplace. It’s the result of a lot of hard work by our team, but remember that it’s only a start. Read through our reviews, then head to your local running store. Try on 6–7 different shoes, run in them, talk to the staff, and figure out which is the best shoe for you.

Local running stores are a huge part of the running culture. In the early days of the first running boom, the local running store was a place to hang out, check out products, find your next race, and get training tips. My store was Goettelmann’s Ryan’s Sports in California’s Silicon Valley.

Gary Goettlemann was—and still is at heart—a real runner, doing track, cross country, and marathons. Through runs with him, talking with him, reading from his stack of old magazines (full confession: I still have one of his Track & Field News issues from July 1974), I learned about our sport.

It was perhaps 1977 or ’78 when I first went to Gary’s store. Now a few decades later, Gary and his son Steve run the shop together. If you want to be patronized, please go to another running store. But if you want honest comments on what shoes could work for you, how to improve your training, and how running can positively impact your life, then by all means ask Gary or Steve.

Gary influenced me in many ways. One of my favorite memories was when I was trying to break 33 minutes for the 10K. I had tried and tried, and it just wasn’t happening. Gary looked at me and said, “Maybe it’s not to be.” Those words got me so wound up that I focused on the training I was missing and about a month later I broke 33 minutes for the first time.

When I returned to the store to show Gary, he smiled and said, “I knew you could do it.”

Read our reviews, then go ask some questions at your local running store. If you need help finding a great store in your area, email me at runblogrun@gmail.com with the subject line “running stores,” and I’ll help you find one.

All of the good running stores have characters—and we all need a few good characters in our lives.

Larry Eder Publishing Director FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

361º Sensation

adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8

18

Project Coordinator/Editor: Christine Johnson Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann Designer: Kristen Cerer Proofreader: Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial Services Shoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña, Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales: FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Publishing Director: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785, fortiusmedia@gmail.com Ad Manager: Adam Johnson-Eder, 608.556.9164, adamlawrenceeder@gmail.com Legal Counsel: Perry F. Goldust

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 2 NEW SHOE

RENOVATION

Fall 2015

Fall 2015

New Balance Vazee Pace

This 2015 Fall Shoe Review is produced independently by FORTIUS Media Group, LLC for its partner publications and websites. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matched to the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

Mizuno Wave Enigma 5

Copyright © 2015 by FORTIUS Media Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of FORTIUS Media Group, LLC.

Motion Stabilizing

Performance

Neutral

Fall 2015

Fall 2015

Fall 2015

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

FALL 2015

American Track & Field www.american-trackandfield.com Athletes Only www.atf-athlete.com Athletics-Africa www.athletics-africa.com/s/ Austin Fit www.austinfitmagazine.com California Track & Running News www.caltrack.com Club Running (RRCA) www.rrca.org/publications/ club-running Coaching Athletics www.coachingathleticsq.com Colorado Runner www.coloradorunnermag.com Footnotes (Long Island, NY) www.glirc.org Get Active! & Club Business International www.healthclubs.com Hawaii Sport www.hawaiisportmag.com Latinos Corriendo www.latinoscorriendo.com Michigan Runner www.michiganrunner.net Missouri Runner & Triathlete www.morunandtri.com New England Exchange Zone www.usatfne.org Race Packet DC www.racepacket.com RunMinnesota www.runmdra.org Running Journal & Racing South www.running.net RunOhio www.runohio.com Track & Field News www.trackandfieldnews.com US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association www.USTFCCCA.org Winged Foot (NYC) www.nyac.org Winged M (Portland, OR) www.themac.com Youth Runner www.youthrunner.com www.ePodismo.com (Italy) www.ePodismo.com/USA www.HalfMarathon.net www.JumpingTheGun.com www.MarathonGuide.com www.PhysicalMag.com www.RunBlogRun.com www.issuu.com/RunDenmark www.RunJumpThrow.com www.RunningProductReviews.com www.SlowTwitch.com www.WomenTalkSports.com www.WorldWideRunning.com

FORTIUS Media Group, LLC and its partner publications and websites suggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meet with a healthcare professional before beginning or changing your fitness regimen.

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MOTION STABILIZING 361º Sensation

NEW SHOE Fall 2015

120

$

adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8

Motion Stabilizing Fall 2015

130

$

ASICS GT-1000 4

The new Sensation is a shoe from a brand that’s new to the U.S. market, though 361º isn’t new to shoemaking, having produced some award-winning shoes for other companies.

The details in the Sensation evidence a mature approach to design and a familiarity with the craft of shoemaking. The upper is straightforward, with open minimesh and traditional overlays offering a well-supported fit and good breathability. The midsole is a two-part system: a lower portion of quality dual-density EVA with a post to stabilize the foot and an upper element that’s a new proprietary process of plastic-coated foam, called Quickfoam, that offers an outstanding ride. The outersole is a proven setup of blown rubber in the forefoot and carbon rubber in the heel, resulting in good flexibility and durable traction. The sole is well-segmented, allowing the foot to flex throughout the gait.

The effectiveness, ride, and quality construction of the Sensation earned it our award for Best New Shoe.

“Has a good secure fit and a quality feel to it. Good amount of cushion—bouncy even—and a good stable base.”

The art of the update is a delicate dance in which both designer and runner hope for the best. The Supernova Sequence Boost 8 is updated with some new touches that will be appreciated as all of the vital parts of the previous version remain intact. The upper is closed mesh with no-sew overlays in the forefoot, more open than previously and with better toe room. The gusseted tongue continues, and the saddle is brawnier, although the pliable material holds the foot well without feeling stiff or irritating. The interior’s lining is smooth enough for sockless wear, if that’s your preference, and it offers a fairly plush feel. Minor adjustments have been made to the midsole components so there’s a bit more support medially, and the lateral side exposes more Boost foam, adding a bit more flexibility in the forefoot. The Continental rubber outersole continues as before, with its proven durability and effective traction. The fit, stability, and ride of the Supernova Sequence Boost 8 earned our award for Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“The heel surrounds and holds the back of the foot very securely. Fits well with good toe room. The Boost foam gives the shoes a lively feel despite being a stability shoe.”

For more than two decades, the foundational shoes of the 1000 series have represented value and performance to runners. Round 4 of the GT-1000 has developed into a full-featured stability shoe, providing value without cutting corners. The upper is an engineered mesh (with a bit of stretch to it) that breathes well and holds the foot securely without needless friction. The midsole features a traditional medial post, which shores up the arch and stabilizes the overpronating foot. The midsole is sculpted to flex with the foot, and a crashpad under almost the entire heel facilitates the touchdown of heelstrikers in a most accommodating way. The outersole is AHAR+ carbon rubber in the heel, with blown rubber in the forefoot and segmented throughout to allow foot flexion in its most natural manner. All in all the GT-1000 4 delivers stability, solid performance, and value without stressing the budget.

“Really good fit, roomy and flexible in the toes, and cupped the heel well. Nice cushion; good stable feel. It was a really good shoe for me.”

The Paradox carries on Mizuno’s tradition of motion stabilizing shoes, managing the heavy-duty motion end of the tandem, the counterpart to the Wave Inspire. The upper has been completely rebuilt, gone are the welded overlays that covered the entire upper in Round 1. Instead there’s a uniformly woven fabric supported by traditional overlays and is tied to the Runbird logo, which forms a saddle-like midfoot support. The midsole is U4ic foam, sculpted for support, but a nicely cushioned layer that responds well to the road. The asymmetrical wave plate is solid for stability; here it’s a full-length version with a springy forefoot. A foam Strobel board offers a cushier feel. The outersole is full-contact, X10 carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot with Mizuno’s Smooth Ride technology laterally. The flex grooves are oriented to forward motion, with an eye to curbing excess inward roll. Round 2 Paradox is deserving of your consideration, as its aesthetics belie its seriously stable nature.

“Really, really stable. No, I mean really stable. Fit great, springy, this one is for serious mileage.”

Saucony has had a strong reputation for motion stabilizing shoes. As has been true since its introduction near the turn of the millennium, the Omni does its job effectively without much fanfare. The upper continues with a stretch mesh similar to Round 13, with some of the traditional synthetic leather overlays replaced by no-sew suede with a softer feel to the support. The midsole is slightly reshaped, deeper flex grooves into the sidewall allow for better flexibility, and a larger crashpad softens the touchdown. The second density extends a bit further, stopping behind the first metatarsal region. The outersole features the same placement of flex grooves in the same radial design as before, but the sculpting of the lateral side allows more give to the pods. The medial side is slightly more supportive, with new shaping, which also lends a bit more durability. The nudge from the accumulated changes wrings out a little more performance from a shoe that was already a successful performer—good news to those in need of a supportive shoe.

“Super solid feel, and nicely finished—pretty plush interior. Really stable through the arch, and really flexible where it needs it.”

100

$

Mizuno Wave Paradox 2

135

$

Saucony Omni 14

130

$

20

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

FALL 2015

New Shoe Sizes: Men 6–12,13,14; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 11.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.5 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Supernova Sequence Boost 7 Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation

Updates the GT-1000 3 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15,16,17 D,2E,4E; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 10.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Wave Paradox Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 D,2E; Women 6–12 B,D Weight: Men 13.5 oz. (size 11); Women 10.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semistraight Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, U4ic foam Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with moderate to severe overpronation

Updates the Omni 13 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 D,2E; Women 5–12 A,B,D Weight: Men 11.4 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

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COMING 2016 Š 2015 Flex Pharma, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

MOTION STABILIZING Under Armour Charged Bandit

100

$

The Charged Bandit is a bit of a hybrid in the Under Armour running line, with a more mainline approach than its siblings. Using a traditional construction approach, the upper is engineered mesh called Armour-Vent, with no-sew welded overlays lending structure and support (as well as prominently displaying the UA logo). The midsole is a multidensity EVA, with an insert of UA’s Charged foam under the forefoot. A thermoplastic medial support lends a touch of stability to the ride, effective for minimal wobble (though for many that’s enough), especially when it’s coupled with full-contact geometry as it is here. If you’re flat on the ground, it’s hard to wobble. Add another layer of Charged foam in the insole that rides on top of an EVA Strobel board, and the package is complete. The full-contact outersole has been pared back, both saving weight and improving flexibility.

The rubber compound is pretty sturdy—all the better to pile on the miles. Overall, the Charged Bandit is quite a good buy, delivering cushioning and durability.

“Fit was pretty good, room for the toes, and flexed well. Good cushion and pretty stable. They even look pretty decent.”

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–12,13,14,15; Women 5–11,12 Weight: Men 11.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.2 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

PERFORMANCE adidas Boston Boost

120

$

Altra Torin 2.0

125

$

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 2

RENOVATION Fall 2015

130

$

New Balance Vazee Pace

Performance Fall 2015

110

$

22

What do you do when you’re named after the world’s most iconic marathon? If you’re the Boston Boost, you wear it with pride. In this round (the second to be “Boosted”), the focus is on lightening things up. The upper features two kinds of forefoot mesh that are layered with a small mesh near the foot, a more open mesh on the outside, with a traditional overlay at the toe of microsuede and a saddle of the same, incorporating the logo stripes. The rearfoot uses a thin, minimesh and a stitched heel counter to provide support. Breathability is maximized: The linings are kept to a minimum, but are sufficient for comfort. The midsole is still Boost foam supported by a frame of EVA, though the percentage of the heavier Boost is increased for better rebound. Even so, the overall weight is reduced a bit, and the improved cushioning adds to the bargain. The outersole is the same proven Continental rubber, which continues to be effective for adidas users.

The Boston Boost is a great choice for faster running, long races, and even a share of your daily training.

“Close-fitting, stripped-down upper, but not uncomfortable. The ride is totally the ‘thing.’

They have great cushioning and they’re fast.”

Altra is known for zero-drop running shoes that match the shape of your foot. The Torin was the first of the Altra shoes to dip a toe into the mainstream running shoe scene.

Round 1.0 employed a traditional approach with materials, but used a flat last with an oversized toebox and, like many of the brand’s shoes, has gained a growing following of runners. Version 2.0 steps things up a notch. The upper is a closed minimesh with no-sew overlays, minimal heel and toe structure (though enough to do the job), and a smooth, roomy interior, especially up front. Taking a page from almost every brand on the market, they have a proprietary midsole foam—called A-bound—and it’s nicely resilient with good cushioning underfoot and, of course, zero-drop geometry. The outersole is carbon rubber, used sparingly in strips on the lateral side, at the heel, under the metatarsals, and at the big toe. The remainder of the sole is toughened A-bound, and it does the trick well. With attributes like these, the Torin is definitely a shoe worth considering.

“Very comfortable. The fit has ample room for the toes and is secure enough in the heel. Plenty of bounce and pretty stable. I liked the feel.”

The Clifton was a surprise when it came out last year: It was crazy light and cushioned to the max. Round 2 shares the ride and feel more broadly, thanks to some minor tailoring changes, but it really ups the performance level for more runners. Round 1 had few options to secure the shoe. Now an extra eyelet on either side allows the shoe to fit better, and the addition of foam in the tongue and ankle collar and a beefier insole improve comfort. More runners can experience the Clifton’s ride with these changes, but runners who found the forefoot snug before will probably have to size up. The midsole and outersole are unchanged: Again, don’t fix what ain’t broke. The shoe remains about as light as you get and with as much cushion as you need (or even a bit more). So recover to your heart’s content—or rock some big miles if that’s your thing. The Clifton 2 won’t care; but it’ll take care of you. No surprise that the Clifton 2 earned our award for Best Renovation.

“The upper fits snugly, securely, and [is] pretty smooth. Light[weight] and well-cushioned. They are really cushy.”

The range of New Balance performance shoes has expanded over the past several seasons. The Vazee Pace replaces the 890, though it has a different fit, ride, and function.

Its name is a play on French slang meaning “let’s go,” because it can really go. The upper is mostly minimesh with traditional overlays over most of its surface. The heel employs a bellows-like construction that flexes as the foot moves, and allows the shoe to fit and adapt to the foot’s motion through the gait. The midfoot fit wraps the arch more effectively than previous New Balance shoes have—particularly for those runners with higher arches. The midsole is Revlite foam that’s lightweight, resilient, and nicely cushioned. The outersole is carbon rubber at the heel and toe and is segmented to better cover forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot. Blown rubber provides durability in the midfoot section. The combination of fit, ride, and value earned the Vazee Pace our award for Best Performance shoe.

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

FALL 2015

Updates the Boston Boost Sizes: Men 6.5–13; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 9.4 oz. (size 11); Women 7.7 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Torin 1.5 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 9.8 oz. (size 11); Women 7.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Clifton Sizes: Men 7.5–14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 9.5 oz. (size 11); Women 7.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, perforated EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

“Perfect fit—and moves with the foot—with really great cushioning. Great for tempo runs, intervals, going for an iced beverage … you get the idea.”

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14 D,2E; Women 6–11 B,D Weight: Men 8.9 oz. (size 11); Women 6.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

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PERFORMANCE Mizuno Sayonara 3

The Sayonara fills an important niche in Mizuno’s performance running line. Although Round 3 may look different, it functions similarly. The upper changes from the no-sew overlays over the entire surface to an open mesh with traditional overlays. The fit is a bit freer with the flexible stretch mesh, and the overlays and internal strapping effectively support the foot. The midsole maintains its 10mm geometry with the usual minor tweaks to the molding, but its effective cushioning continues, as does its good, full-contact stability—though with less of an assist from the waveplate. The outersole is X-10 rubber in the heel with a change to blown rubber in the forefoot. This combination provides reliable traction and good durability. The net effect here is a reasonably lightweight shoe that can hold up to all types of daily training.

“Good all-around shoe. Light enough for long races. Good cushioning. Fits well. Comfy for long runs. Have to say they did everything I needed.”

The Elite name has adorned Nike shoes for 40 years, with one thing in common: performance.

The Nike Zoom Elite 8 shares that legacy and backs it up quietly and efficiently. The upper is an engineered material called Flymesh, though here it’s two separate pieces seamed together and married by Flywire, which supports the fit of the lacing. The interior lining is smooth enough for sockless use, and the tongue is gusseted so that it stays in place and makes the lining almost continuous. The midsole is molded Phylon with a forefoot Zoom bag, and they combine well for protection and responsiveness and give the ride a good bounce. The outersole is divided into three zones: a forefoot of soft but durable blown rubber that holds up well, a midfoot that’s supported medially by waffles molded into the toughened Phylon midsole, and a heel and lateral midfoot of durable carbon rubber which provide an extra touch of stability. This is one of those “the sum is greater than its parts” equations, whether speeding through the fast stuff or adding some zip to your daily training.

“Fit well in the toes; secure in the heel. Has a gofast feel, but also plenty of cushion, traction, and it adds in good looks to boot.”

110

$

Nike Zoom Elite 8

115

$

Updates the Sayonara 2 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 10.3 oz. (size 11); Women 8.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

Updates the Zoom Elite 7 Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 10.4 oz. (size 11); Women 8.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

NEUTRAL 361º Spire

As a new brand, all 361˚ shoes are new to our market, but they’re not unproven, having done factory work for other top brands. As its name suggests, the Spire is 361˚’s pinnacle shoe. The upper features quality stretch mesh, with a combination of traditional synthetic leather/suede and no-sew overlays. The midfoot benefits from a secure saddle, while the external thermoplastic heel counter keeps the rearfoot aligned. The midsole is where this shoe really shines: A new compound called Quickfoam produces a comfy ride and makes the shoe more responsive and bouncy than expected. The outersole is a typical setup: carbon rubber in the heel, blown rubber in the forefoot, and a thermoplastic shank for torsional support. The finish work here polishes the shoe with some quality touches, and the ride points to even better shoes to come.

“Very comfortable fit with good quality linings.

Has a very smooth feel to the ride: plenty of cush but with really good rebound. They are really nice to run in.”

Long the workhorse in ASICS’ Neutral lineup, the Cumulus sports upgrades from top to bottom, improving its stock with Round 17. The upper is open mesh with no-sew overlays extending along its full length; only a stitched toe bumper and ankle collar take a traditional approach. The quality ankle and tongue linings give the interior a luxe feel.

The reshaped midsole employs the FluidRide system that features two layers of foam sandwiching heel and forefoot Gel elements. Each component contributes to the ride, providing a well-cushioned feel. The outersole is newly configured in a wavelike pattern that exposes more surface area, offering excellent grip and a touch more cushioning. The thorough overhaul of the Cumulus 17 has reinvigorated and raised the capabilities of this proven performer.

“Good ASICS fit, as expected. Snug heel with plenty of room for the toes. I was impressed by the great ride to the shoe.”

140

$

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 17

120

$

Brooks Ghost 8

The Ghost has figured prominently in the success of Brooks’ running line, and Round 8 shows the good result of much effort. The upper shifts to an engineered mesh supported by no-sew overlays, and minimally stitched overlays at heel and toe lend necessary structure to those critical areas, improving the fit in the process. The midsole now features a full-length, lateral crashpad which aligns with the Omega groove and allows the foot some freedom to move in its gait. The good news for Ghost fans is that the cushy ride they relied on continues in Round 8—perhaps even a bit better. The outersole is similar to Round 7: a luggy series of carbon rubber strips on the edges with a section of blown rubber under the ball of the foot, each grouping segmented to allow the foot to flex and move. Put simply, it works. The result is a shoe that continues to provide cushioning, fit, and overall durability to a wide variety of runners.

120

$

www.morunandtri.com

FALL 2015

New Shoe Sizes: Men 6–12,13,14; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 11.5 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Gel-Cumulus 16 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15,16,17 D,2E,4E; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 10.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

“Snug in the heel and soft inside. They feel good and protective. I’ve really piled on the miles in these.”

Updates the Ghost 7 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

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NEUTRAL Round 13 of the Glycerin retains the best elements of its design and forges ahead. The midsole from Round 12 was then a step forward with new geometry, a new compound, and a new platform, all of which were well received. So why mess with success? The expectation that things can be improved sometimes pushes a good technology out too soon, so maintaining the midsole here is a positive move. The upper now features a closed minimesh with a stitched toecap, saddle, and heel. However, the upper has better stretch, and 3D-printed overlays shape and support the shoe with little impact on the interior. The ankle collar has a smoother feel, and the shoe’s interior (including the gusseted tongue) is uniform as well. The full-contact bottom continues as before: Its wellsegmented, omnidirectional design allows the foot to flex pretty much as it likes. While relatively lightly touched, this update is quite well done.

Brooks Glycerin 13

150

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Mizuno Wave Enigma 5

Neutral Fall 2015

150

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On CloudCruiser

150

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Pearl Izumi Road N3

“Fit snug, but felt great. They have good traction and durability. Overall, this is a great distance training shoe.”

On has gained a reputation for the ride provided by its unique Cloud technology. The new CloudCruiser is designed for heavy wear, hard surfaces, and high mileage. The upper is similar to other On shoes: a sturdy, slightly stiff, closed mesh that features a sueded saddle that securely wraps the foot with adequate conformity, becoming more comfortable after a few runs. The midsole is a thin layer of EVA, which contains the Speedboard, a thermoplastic plate that adds rigidity and flex to the sole. The outersole adds both cushioning and traction, with its 15 Clouds positioned and shaped to ameliorate the forces of touchdown and toe-off. The Clouds in the heel are the thickest variety, and those on the lateral side are the largest yet used, effectively encouraging proper alignment for a variety of heel strikes. For weight savings without a loss in performance, the interior of the loops now engages teeth that are molded into the EVA layer instead of rubber. The CloudCruiser treads where others have gone, but it does so longer.

“Has a really sturdy feel to it, and a very consistent ride. It seems the farther you go, the more responsive the shoe becomes in shielding the foot. I was impressed with the shoe.”

The new Road N3 is a Pearl Izumi shoe with a laser-like focus on cushioning. In fact, it’s the cushiest of all PI’s shoes. While similar to other very cushioned shoes on the market, it offers the Pearl Izumi approach as part of its EMotion line. The upper is closed mesh supported by 3D-printed overlays that maximize a smooth interior without sacrificing support. The midsole is the tallest of the Pearl Izumi line at 27 millimeters, but has a lower feel, while providing a well-cushioned and neutral ride. The outersole is tough rubber that flares in two directions: in the forefoot toward the lateral side and in the heel toward the medial. This keeps the weight down while effectively providing traction, flexibility, and durability. The upshot is that the N3 is a well-cushioned shoe that handles long runs, recovery runs, and daily training with ease.

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The Skechers Ultra has found a following, and many of those runners have been waiting for a road version. Well, the wait is over. The Ultra Road takes its cue from the GOrun line—and particularly its trail counterpart—providing a ride that’s springy as well as ultra cushioned. The upper is an engineered mesh called GOKNIT, which has open and closed areas across its surface to offer a good fit and breathability. The midsole has a tall stack height of 32 millimeters in the heel. It’s soft, but surprisingly responsive, and of course well-cushioned, though it’s not designed for wobbly feet. The outersole is full-length Resalyte, which is tougher than it looks, but even so, it’s backed up by strategically placed dots of carbon rubber for added durability, as per other GOrun road models. Whether it’s big road miles or recovery days the Ultra Road has got you covered.

115

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24

Updates the Glycerin 12 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 B,D,2E; Women 5–12 2A,B,D Weight: Men 12.1 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

The Enigma has been the premier Neutral shoe in Mizuno’s line and features its most straightforward and signature waveplate. Round 5 has taken a serious step up in performance and comfort, which is a pleasant surprise and should be good news to Enigma fans. The upper returns to a wide-open mesh, with traditional overlays providing most of the support. The midsole continues with the same full-length waveplate and U4ic foam. New here is U4ic-X, a second full-length insert layer that adds a plusher feel to the ride. Another hidden upgrade is the foam Strobel board that adds another subtle comfort layer to the shoe directly beneath the good quality polyurethane insole. The outersole continues as before with X-10 carbon rubber in the heel, blown rubber in the forefoot, and segmented for good flexibility. The bottom line? The performance, fit, and ride of the Enigma 5 earned it our award for Best Shoe in the Neutral category.

$

Skechers GOrun Ultra Road

“Great silky smooth interior. Really hugs the foot well, but with plenty of room where needed.

Responsive bounce makes training as easy as possible.”

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

FALL 2015

Updates the Wave Enigma 4 Sizes: Men 7–14,15,16; Women 5–11 Weight: Men 11.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.1 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 12.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.7 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

“Very comfortable upper that feels good enough to wear without socks. Easy to run in. Smooth from heel to toe. Great shoe for high mileage.”

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 Weight: Men 12.1 oz. (size 11); Women 9.8 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

“Fit really quite well; snugged up with good wiggle room. Super squishy, but not too mushy.

Weird, but they run really well, and keep you going on easy days or long days with protection from the road.”

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–10,11 Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

www.morunandtri.com

Huddle Wins Boston Tufts 10K in Event Record

By Chris Lotsbom of Race Results Weekly Boston – Molly Huddle’s theme at the Tufts Health Plan Women’s 10K was plain and simple: grind. The 31-year-old had Shalane Flanagan’s 31:03 national record on her mind, and her goal was to eclipse it on her home soil in New England. Though she ultimately came up short, Huddle’s winning mark of 31:21 was a course record, championships record, and personal best. It was her fourth win at this event, and she collected her 19th national title.

“I was just grinding the whole way so that I wouldn’t slow down,” said Huddle, holding the winner’s wreath. “I have a certain goal for every race, and today it was trying to run fast.”

From the gun, Huddle and training partner Emily Sisson went to the front, splitting the mile in 5:00 with Ethiopia’s Sentayehu Ejigu a step behind. Crossing the Massachusetts Avenue bridge with Boston’s sun-splashed skyline off her shoulder, Huddle continued to hammer step after step. She was alone a mere seven minutes into the contest, well out in front.

Huddle had hoped to have someone with her to keep the pace fast. Huddle and Sisson, who both train under coach Ray Treacy in Providence, had planned to start off with a five-minute pace and see how long they could hold it. Yet Huddle was the only one who could keep that tempo, reaching two miles alone in 9:58.

“It was challenging. That’s pretty fast to do all by yourself, so I thought I’d give it a go and see what’d happen,” she said. “I just looked down and tried to grind as long as I could. [Flanagan’s record] was on my mind, and I knew it’d be a tall order unless there was someone with me. But I thought, ‘Maybe you’ll feel good and maybe you’ll be able to do it.’”

Through 5K in 15:37, Huddle ran along the Charles River with an extra pep in her step. Her arms pumped a bit harder than usual, and her eyes stayed glued on the asphalt ahead; they would only lift when she tapped her watch each mile. By four miles, Huddle’s lead on Sisson was 19 seconds.

Taking the inbound turn back onto the Mass. Ave bridge, Huddle hit a wall of sound. Women still running through their second mile were screaming encouragement for her. www.morunandtri.com

Despite the extra encouragement, Huddle couldn’t quite get back on national record pace. Whether it was due to the lack of a competitor alongside her or the lingering fatigue from last week’s 10-mile national championships (which she won in a national best of 51:44), Huddle simply said she didn’t have the extra gear needed to eclipse Flanagan’s mark.

Even so, she put a shellacking on the competition. In her final mile, Huddle’s lead was greater than a city block. She zoomed past the Public Garden and through the finish in 31:21, breaking Ejigu’s event record by 12 seconds.

“I’m just happy to win and get a road PR, so that’s nothing to be disappointed about!” said Huddle, who joins Lynn Jennings as the only athletes to have won this race at least four times (Jennings has six titles). Huddle took home a total of $12,050

thanks to her win. When noted that this was her 19th USA national title, she laughed.

“I think that just means I’ve run for a lot of years now, which means that I’m getting a little further along in my career. But if you told me that 10 years ago that’s where I’d be now, I wouldn’t believe you. It’s pretty special.”

In her post-race interview, Huddle was quick to give credit to Sisson, celebrating her 24th birthday with a runner-up finish in 32:18. Sisson has quickly made the transition from collegian to professional, training alongside Huddle a majority of the time.

“I was happy to finish second to Molly.

That was the goal going into today,” said Sisson. “I know I’m going the right path following them [Sisson and coach Treacy], so it’s really comfortable. The transition has been smooth.”

Rounding out the top three was Ejigu (32:37), with a healthy Kim Conley and Brianne Nelson completing the top five in 32:38 and 32:48, respectively.

In the team competition, the Boston Athletic Association earned a six-second victory over adidas Rocky Mountain Elite, 1:40:45 to 1:40:51 (the top three finishers’ times were totaled to come up with scores).

The B.A.A. retained its title thanks to the finishes of Katie Matthews (10th, 33:09), Sarah Pagano (15th, 33:42), and Emma Bates (16th, 33:54).

“This year we had two different girls run this race and we still won,” said Matthews, noting that a year ago Jen Rhines, Matthews, and Juliet Bottorff made up the winning squad. “I think it speaks to our depth and that we can have three girls ready to go at any given time ready to win.”

For Bates, this race served as her professional debut. Despite battling illness earlier this week, she was encouraged with today’s showing.

“It was a whole different can of worms.

It was really fast at the beginning and really hard,” she said. “I started to move up the last two miles, but it was hard. It was a great experience. Very fun, tough, but good. I’m really excited for the next one and I think I’ll fare a little bit better.” © 2015 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved, used with permission.

Photorun.net FALL 2015

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EVAN JAGER: Getting Ready for Rio

Photorun.net

By Cathal Dennehy When Evan Jager walked off the track at the Zurich Diamond League in early September having finished a tired third in 8:18.39, he knew his season was over.

The residual fatigue from a summer in which he climbed some lofty peaks, but never quite reached the highest summit, was apparent in his performance. The psychological sucker punch from failing to medal at the World Championships was still evident in his words.

Jager was supposed to run the 5000m at the Brussels Diamond League a week later, but with his tank running low and his Achilles tendon flaring up, he decided that with only 11 months left until the Olympic Games, it was time to rest.

“I’m feeling pretty spent right now,” he said. “I’m okay with shutting it down, taking my break early, and gearing up for next year.”

But before the grind toward 2016 begins, the 26-year-old plans to luxuriate in being able to do something he hasn’t done in a long time: nothing.

“I just finished college,” he said. “I went part-time when I turned pro, so this will be my first fall with nothing to do—my first true break since I turned pro.”

Jager, who completed a degree in health studies at Portland State University, will turn his focus from the track to his upcoming vacation—likely to include plenty of outdoor exploring in Oregon— and, he said, “drinking a lot of beer.”

Beer is something he’s deprived himself of all season in his bid to reach the top. Although he didn’t quite make it, he got close.

Rewind a few months to early July, on a warm Saturday evening in Paris.

Thousands of French fans jumped to their feet, creating the biggest cheer of the night as they threw their support behind an American—a long-haired, long-striding steeplechaser from Algonquin, IL—trying to achieve the unthinkable and beat the Kenyans at their own game.

Jager went into the race as the American record holder, and hav-

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ing run a world-leading 1500m in 3:32.97 earlier this summer, the Bowerman Track Club athlete seemed primed to rewrite his 8:04.71 mark, and possibly even challenge the 8-minute barrier.

There were nine Kenyans in the field, including many of the best examples of their steeplechasing supremacy—athletes like Jairus Birech, Conseslus Kipruto, Ezekiel Kemboi, and Brimin Kipruto.

The early pace was strong, but when it began to lag with two laps remaining, Jager was the first to take action, moving to the front and opening up that long stride of his, daring the Kenyans to give chase. Birech was the only one able to match his pace, but even he had to give way as the American poured it on at the front.

“I didn’t really know what was going on until I looked at the screen with 300m to go,” he said afterward. When Jager did steal a glance on the final lap, he could see he’d drawn clear of Birech and was on his way—not only to his first Diamond League victory—but also his first sub-8-minute clocking.

He turned into the home straight with a 10-meter lead, but having stumbled off the final water jump, it was clear his tank was close to empty. At the final barrier, his trailing foot brushed the top causing him to stumble, and given the fatigue, his legs buckled on landing.

“I don’t know if I was running too fast or was too tired,” he said.

“I gave it everything I had to get over the barrier, but my toe just barely clipped it. I couldn’t stop myself from falling. I just tried to get up as fast as I could.”

As he rose to his feet, Birech powered past en route to victory in 7:58.83, with Jager gathering himself for one final sprint to the finish, crossing in 8:00.45.

His run proved a surprise to many, but afterward Jager was aware that the Kenyans would be ready for him when it mattered most—in Beijing.

“Kenyans have absolutely dominated the steeple since they started running,” he said. “They’re extremely proud, train really hard, and a lot of them are very talented. There’s a pride thing with them.

I’m worried that I damaged that pride tonight, and they’re going to come back and tear my head off at the World Championships.”

Fast forward seven weeks, and Jager’s standing in Beijing’s Bird’s www.morunandtri.com

Nest Stadium, facing up to the realization that his prophecy was painfully fulfilled—the Kenyans indeed came back with a vengeance. Their quartet of Kemboi, Kipruto, Kipruto, and Birech all left him in the dust on the last lap of the 3000m steeplechase final.

Jager finished an exhausted sixth in 8:15.47, getting passed by teammate Dan Huling on the run to the line.

“I don’t know if I lost form or if the way I ran tonight just sucked the energy out of my legs,” he said. “It’s really disappointing.

I wanted to be the type of athlete I was in Paris and I feel like I didn’t show that at all.”

The race, unfortunately for Jager and fourth-placed Birech, was nothing like Paris. In Beijing, the field ran the opening kilometer in a pedestrian 2:49.50. The race essentially boiled down to a 300m dash to the line with Kemboi, who proved he’s the master of the championship setting.

Jager meanwhile was left to consider his options, wondering how he could reload and rethink his strategy to conquer the Kenyans.

In the absence of different race tactics, the key would be speed.

“Kicking that fast over those barriers is really hard at this point, so I’ve got to figure out how to change that,” said Jager. “Kemboi is the greatest championship runner of all time. I’m sure he’s straight up faster than me over 200 meters, and it’s hard to sprint with someone like that.”

After Beijing, Jager admitted that falling below his expectations proved a thumping blow to his morale.

“It took about a week for me to not want to quit for the year,” he said. “I was in a rough place, and my body generally felt like crap.”

Nonetheless, there were races to be run, Diamond League points to be won, and how better to get over a recent fall than climb straight back on the horse and try again?

With that in mind Jager took himself to Zurich. On a cold, drizzly night, his mind was willing but his flesh was weak.

Jager took to the front in the early part of the race, but had no answer when Paul Kipsiele Koech turned on the heat over the final lap. Jager finished third in 8:18.39, eight seconds behind the Kenyan.

“I’ve got to figure out how to do it my way.”

www.morunandtri.com

“I tried to run tough from the front as that’s more my style race than sit and kick, but I was always tired and struggling,” said Jager.

“Everyone’s head wasn’t in the right mentality. It was a controlled death at the end, just hanging on, trying to run tough and stay as close as I could.”

Once again Jager had turned in a bold effort, but it wasn’t enough to defeat the best of the Kenyans.

“I’m fine with it,” he said. “It doesn’t really mean a whole lot, but I’m glad I ran tough and didn’t give up when it started hurting early on.”

Unsurprisingly, Jager pulled the plug on the 5000m in Brussels the following week, feeling the challenge of a sub-13-minute race would prove counterproductive to his long-term goals.

Instead he went home to America to relax, recover, regroup, and eventually refocus for the year ahead.

When he sits down with coach Jerry Schumacher to review the year, there will likely be two main areas of discussion. The first is whether he peaked too soon this summer, running as well as he did at the Diamond League in Paris, a performance he’d much rather have produced seven weeks later in Beijing.

“I did all the training prescribed by my coach, so it’s not like I missed training or was out partying or anything like that,” he said. “I was totally focused on [Beijing].”

The most likely adjustment, however, may come in the form of race tactics. Although Jager is fast—confirmed by his 3:32-pace 1500m—he doesn’t possess the blinding finishing speed of the Kembois or Kiprutos of this world.

Having proven in Paris he’s good enough to beat them, it’s now a matter of finding a strategy to do so in Rio. “I’ve got to figure out Photorun.net how to do it my way,” he said. “I don’t think I can do it their way and beat them. I’m not as good at [kicking] as I am at going out and riding that red line and putting myself out there.

They just have that quick step and can put five meters on you in no time, so it’s really hard to play their game.”

In 2016, Jager will need a new plan of attack if he’s to reach the ultimate summit.

It’s not as far away as you’d think.

FALL 2015

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

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Kipchoge Wins 2015 Berlin Marathon

By Larry Eder In the end, two of the fastest men in history couldn’t stop him, nor could the blisters and cuts he endured on his feet after a shoe malfunction early in the race.

At the Berlin Marathon in September, nothing could stop Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, who destroyed the field to win in a personal best of 2:04:00, crossing a whopping 81 seconds clear of runner-up Eliud Kiptanui.

Kipchoge’s supremacy was astonishing, his focus and resilience in the face of adversity—which came in the form of an insole problem more than with his rivals—was simply incredible.

After witnessing his dominance, there’s little left to debate: Eliud Kipchoge is currently the world’s greatest marathoner.

It’s almost hard to imagine that here’s an athlete who’s spanned two distant eras in the sport, and somehow remained at the very top during both of them.

Twelve years ago, Kipchoge was outkicking Hicham El Guerrouj and Kenenisa Bekele to win the 5000m at the IAAF World Championships in Paris. Back then we really should have recognized his greatness—an 18-yearold defeating two all-time greats at the peak of their powers—but the years that followed often saw him play second fiddle on the track, picking up many silver and bronze medals over 5000m and 10,000m races.

It was only when he decided in 2013 that it was time for him to move up in distance that we remembered just how outrageously talented Kipchoge was.

In Berlin, Kipchoge had 10K left to run when the former track man made his decisive move.

As his insoles flapped around, half-in, half-out of his shoes, Kipchoge surged to the lead, and in an instant, his superiority was clear.

The 30-year-old eased ahead of Emmanuel Mutai and Feyisa Lilesa and built his lead all the way to the finish, which was 2015’s fastest time in the world and the 11th-fastest marathon of all time.

When Kipchoge removed his Photorun.net unfortunate shoes at the finish,

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the world got to see just how difficult his performance had been beneath the calm, cool exterior he displayed throughout the race.

“There are blisters on the left foot, and my big toe is cut, with lots of blood,” said Kipchoge. “It was there the whole race but what can I do? I had to finish. In the first 800m, the left [insole] came out, and by 10K the right sole was also out.

“I had a problem running [correctly], because the left insole was really flopping and moving smoothly was a problem. The sole impacted with the tarmac, and I got some blisters. I got to 31K and tried to adjust, but the last 7K my foot was a little bit painful. I tried my best to maintain the pace and forget the foot, but both of them were painful.”

Given the apparent ease with which he won, the question everyone kept asking Kipchoge post-race concerned how fast he could have gone without the shoe malfunction, but the Kenyan didn’t want to get specific.

“I think I would’ve run faster than that, but I don’t know the time,” he said. “It was a personal best, and the outcome was the most important thing.”

Kipchoge revealed he’d tested the shoe in training without fault and he wasn’t keen to lay the blame on anyone. “The glue on the insole didn’t stick,” he explained. “It’s a good shoe, the best in the world, but that’s sport. I have to accept it.”

So far, a super-fast time at the distance has eluded him, but his form in Berlin was indicative of an athlete who, with the right conditions—and shoes—can threaten the world record.

Kipchoge, though, is more focused on titles than times. Next year when he runs for Kenya at the Olympic Games, as he surely will, it’ll have been 13 years since he ascended to the top of the world in Paris.

If he can strike gold again, there’s no doubt he’s an all-time great of the sport. Kipchoge took one giant leap toward that status while in Berlin and as he explained afterward, there’s only one thing in his thoughts from here on out.

“My mind,” he said, “is in Rio.”

www.morunandtri.com

Genzebe Dibaba Wants to Double at 2016 World Indoors

By Sabrina Yohannes World 1500m title holder Genzebe Dibaba of Ethiopia was still feeling the effects of her World Championships double. She secured the 3000m/5000m IAAF Diamond League trophy at the Zurich Weltklasse on Sept. 3.

Dibaba placed second in the 3000m with 8:26.54 to winner Almaz Ayana’s 8:22.34, who also became the new 5000m world champion. However, Dibaba earned enough points in the Diamond League to take the series trophy. “After Beijing I was fatigued and so I came in second [in Zurich],” said Dibaba in an interview with RunBlogRun. “My foot was sore as I had just ran five races in 10 days,” said Dibaba, who had competed in three rounds of the 1500m and two of the 5000m the previous month at the Beijing World Championships. There she lost the 5000m final to her compatriot Ayana on the last day of the Championships, and finished with bronze after teammate Senbere Teferi beat her in the race to silver.

Dibaba began the 2015 outdoor season planning to only contest the 5000m in Beijing, but changed her mind after running two fast 1500m races in July, including a new 3:50.07 world record.

Despite the toll the ambitious double took on her, she has no regrets about choosing to tackle both events in Beijing.

“I’m pleased with my decision because I won the first gold ever for my country in the 1500m,” she said. “And I also have a 5000m bronze.”

Ethiopian athletes, including Dibaba herself, have earned a few 1500m titles indoors, but the only world medal in outdoor distances was Deresse Mekonnen’s silver in the men’s 2009 Berlin World Championships—until Dibaba made history in Beijing.

“It’s my first time doubling, and I knew it would be a learning experience,” said Dibaba. And it won’t intimidate her from attempting it again next year, but Rio 2016 won’t be the venue.

“At the Olympics, I doubt the schedule will allow me to double, as the 5000m [heat] and 1500m [final] take place on the same day,” said the reigning 3000m champion. “But I’d like to double at the Portland 2016 World Indoor Championships.”

Dibaba won the 1500m title at the 2012 World Indoor Championships and contested the 3000m at Sopot (Poland) 2014.

At the time she wanted to double, but was discouraged by having to run heats in both events.

www.morunandtri.com

Photorun.net After scoring two medals in a demanding double attempt in Beijing, Dibaba is drawn to the idea of making a similar bid at Portland 2016, where she’d like to run both the 1500m and the 3000m.

As in 2014, the Portland Indoor World Championships include heats in the two events, taking place on the first day of the Championships within five hours of each other. Since they’re elimination rounds, they should pose less of a challenge for Dibaba than running a heat and a final on the same day. She’ll get a little time to rest her legs as the 1500m takes place on Day 2, and the 3000m final is on the closing afternoon of the Championships on Day 3.

Haile Gebrselassie, Dibaba’s compatriot and the two-time Olympic champion and breaker of many world records, won double gold over the same two distances at the 1999 Maebashi World Indoor Championships in Japan, but the two events didn’t overlap on the timetable.

Dibaba will be taking on an ambitious challenge again in March 2016, but for the woman who’s attacked and achieved world records or bests over the 1500m, 3000m, 2-mile, and 5000m indoors during the last two seasons, that would be par for the course.

FALL 2015

MISSOURI RUNNER AND TRIATHLETE

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Making the Brand a Hero

By Larry Eder Part of the build-up to major events are the press events, or “pressers,” provided by various brands around championships and the Olympics. adidas is the global sponsor of IAAF and folks there put together several events around the World Championships. I interviewed David Rudisha, Jessica Ennis-Hill, and Tori Bowie at the adidas presser, and based on the info they provided me, I put together this behind-the-scenes glimpse.

There’s an art to how brands present their athletes and products to media. Do they oversell it and lose their credibility and interest in their products? Or, do they find how best to provide content and context to the media while also providing a positive experience with their brand?

In my mind there have been several great examples over the years of how to access athlete content while promoting the brand. The best was Nike at the 1995 Göteborg World Championships. (A rival shoe company sponsored the events, but didn’t manage the opportunity well.) Nike provided access to athlete interviews each day, with content, product access, and interviews. Some early digital content and brand stories were woven in, but they weren’t shoved down our throats. For the media 1996 was pretty good too, but Olympic venues can be a challenge.

The content from Nike during the 2000 Sydney Olympics allowed me to provide daily content to our then-growing web presence, even though I was in the U.S. with a busted eardrum. Nike did it better than anyone else, giving us stories on each athlete, pictures of uniforms, and product information.

In 2004, adidas provided content well in advance, along with access to their iconic athletes. What with adidas, Reebok’s daily press conferences, and a few pressers with Nike, we had access to most of the brands.

Reebok in 2005 Helsinki and 2007 Osaka were two of the best-managed events. Access to athletes in a quiet, easy-to-find media center made a lot of sense. By this time Nike was offering some fine interview opportunities, but fewer than in previous times, and they were more oriented to the Nike brand and its product stories.

In 2008, Nike had some fun opportunities in Beijing around athletes and products. adidas provided access to some of its iconic athletes and a historical context to the brand’s commitment to the Olympic movement. The adidas launch in 2008 in Beijing was one of the best-managed opportunities I’ve ever experienced.

Over the years, the Steve Jobs/Mark Parker collaborations with Nike running were pretty spectacular—part of it was the chemistry

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between Jobs and Parker—Parker once noted he asked Jobs how to make Nike better, and the Apple meister said, “Stop making crappy shoes.”

For several years, Nike did spectacular events around the Nike running application, Lunar products. The biggest was its 2012 Olympic product launch. There was a large media presence and a well-run, focused event promoting the complete line Nike had built around the Olympic events.

It’s a challenge to put all of those pieces together. In the successful times, I have seen, and several have done this with very modest programs. (I don’t understand what he means!)

In 2012 ASICS offered afternoon access to athletes and a chance to interview ASICS’ new president. Access to athletes, a brand story, and talking with executives about the brand and sport make for a nice event.

At the World Championships adidas did three media events with unique approaches. I attended one where the media accompanied my informants for this article, Rudisha, EnnisHill, and Bowie, as they walked us through the call areas under the stadium, took us to see the track, and showed us some of the behind-the-scenes operations of the Beijing National Stadium, affectionately known as the Bird’s Nest. It was fun and a different way to weave in the brand story. The interviews with Rudisha, Ennis-Hill, and Bowie were short and focused, and I enjoyed the access.

Sometimes the most unrehearsed situations are the best. I remember a 2011 event in Daegu, South Korea where Trey Hardee won the gold medal and Ashton Eaton took silver.

Nike did a quick press event. The communication between Hardee and Eaton was amazing.

The honesty about their performances was telling, and it provided a fine moment between the two athletes. Likewise, in 2007 in Osaka, Carolina Kluft, a heptathlon champion, did a presser after her win that was both telling and startling in its honesty. Moments like that are few and far between.

In 2000 David Mingey had a public relations disaster dealing with Marion Jones and her then-husband C. J. Hunter and their involvement in the BALCO scandal. Mingey didn’t become unglued, but handled it well in public and tried to control what was quickly becoming a disaster. In retrospect I believe it may have been, along with Keith Peter’s comprehension of where content and context could support the Nike brand, one of the best moments in support of the Swoosh.

I am reminded of this when I saw Bowie in awe of the Beijing Stadium. I forget sometimes that these young athletes are human too, and besides running, jumping, and throwing, they can take the time to see the wonder and beauty in such a stadium and their sport.

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