December APRIL 2003 2003
www.runnersandwalkers.com WWW.RUNNERSANDWALKERS.COM
Double trouble 2003 Cross country course popular with runners
Upcoming Events New Year’s Eve Fun Run, 4 pm, Clubhouse January 17, Bold In the Cold
Saturday Night Live 5:00 pm
(First Saturday of the month) Check the bulletin board on our website for last minute changes. January—Thai Chili, Southlake Town Square
A group of area runners gathered at the Clubhouse on November 15th to experience a new twist on RAW’s annual Double Trouble race. Instead of the traditional 5k/10k format, this year’s double whammy came in the form of a 5mile combination road and crosscountry race. It was harder than many expected, but the results were terrific.
The Double Trouble benefits Camp I-Thonka-Chi, Parkland Hospital’s burn camp for children. The camp provides a place where severely burned children can find acceptance and experience the joys of summer camp among others who share a common bond. Several RAW members volunteer their time in support of this worthy cause.
The overall female winner was Yolanda Hopping, with a time of 34:40. Masters female winner was Marisa Quinones, finishing in 39:57. Juan Rodriguez took overall male honors, with a blistering 26:48, and Bob Kolbaba was the male masters winner, with a time of 28:53.
A special thank you goes to our sponsors: Just for Feet, Saltgrass Steak House, Clif Bar, FastFrame, Brooks, Rainforest Cafe and Breadhaus. Thanks to our great volunteers and to race director Terry Marcott, the race went off without a hitch.
February—Joe’s Pizza & Pasta, 114 & Carroll March—Macaroni Grill, Grapevine
Renewals Your membership expiration date is shown on your Footprint mailing label. When it’s time to renew, fill out the membership application in the newsletter and mail it back to RAW along with your check.
Off they go! Kathy Mac, Major Mike and the crowd
Arizona rock n roll marathon
Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers Club
Win a free entry Our club was given one free entry to the inaugural Arizona Rock N Roll Marathon, to be held January 11 in Tempe/ Phoenix/Scottsdale.
P.O. Box 2982 Grapevine, Texas 76099
To win the race entry (sorry, airfaire and hotel are not included), please write an essay (300 words or less) on why you should be selected. Send your essay by December 27 to President@RunnersAndWalkers.com. The RAW Board will make the final decision on who will be awarded the entry. The decision will be announced by January 1, 2004. The official race website is http://www.rnraz.com/.
RAW Board and Committees
Relay For Life 2004 Coming April 30 Make plans now to join the RAW team at the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. Not only will we raise money for a great cause, we’ll have a blast doing it. We’ll be camping overnight on the Colleyville Heritage High School football field, and making sure we have at least one team member walking on the track from 7pm to 7am.
President Kelly Richards President@RunnersAndWalkers.com First Vice President Terry Marcott VP1x@RunnersAndWalkers.com
Watch for more info! Contact: Debbie Bryant, stevendebbie2@comcast.net
Second Vice President Rick Sanford VP2x@RunnersAndWalkers.com
New year’s eve fun run
Chief Information Officer Jack Hase CIOx@RunnersAndWalkers.com
December 31 4:00 pm RAW Clubhouse
Treasurer Craig Minyard Treasurerx@RunnersAndWalkers.com Officers At Large Rick Fogle MAL1x@RunnersAndWalkers.com J.W. Keeling MAL2x@RunnersAndWalkers.com Tia Metzger MAL3x@RunnersAndWalkers.com Stacie Sauber MAL4x@RunnersAndWalkers.com Curtis Woodard MAL5x@RunnersAndWalkers.com Courtney Noell MAL6x@RunnersAndWalkers.com
BYOB and a snack to share MISSING OUT ON THE RAW NEWS? SEND YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS TO KELLY: PRESIDENT@
RUNNERSANDWALKERS. COM.
WE’LL ADD YOU TO
OUR DISTRIBUTION LIST.
Footprint Editor Susan Barnett Editorx@RunnersAndWalkers.com
DON’T MISS OUT ON ANY OF THE FUN!
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This is a great family event, and the perfect time to get in a quick run, so you won’t feel so guilty when you’re lying around watching football the next day. You’ll be in the party mood nice and early as you snack on chips and hot chocolate (spiked with peppermint schnapps, of course). Afterwards, a group of RAW members are going to Grapevine’s Runway Theatre’s New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Gala and Dinner. This semi-formal event features plenty of food and dancing, and was a big hit with those who went last year. You can learn more about the event at www.runwaytheatre.com. Tickets are $75 before December 15, and $85 after. For more info about the fun run, contact Ray Harris at rayharris00@yahoo.com. Major Mike can tell you more about the New Year’s Eve bash, and can be reached at Mike.W.Eccleston@fritolay.com.
In step with … Kelly Eppelman How long have you been a RAW member? I think about 2 years. I was an official member for awhile before I was an active member (Scott and I had a family membership). It took me a little while to come out and run with the group because I was afraid that everyone would expect me to be a great runner like Scott. I'm not; I'm a social runner. I run only as far as I have someone to visit with while running. I've found that RAW is a perfect running group for both the fast, elite and the slow, social runner.
K2 to you From Kelly Richards, RAW President From baby steps to national recognition, RAW reached new heights of achievement in 2003. No awards are given for these accomplishments, but I think they speak volumes about who we are:
How long have you been running? I started running in 1993. I worked for Boeing, who had a running team. It sounded like fun, so I joined. By the way, another club member, Mary Simon, was the driving force behind that Boeing running team. We ran 5 & 10Ks. My first marathon was White Rock in 1997.
• • •
I understand biking used to be "your thing.” Why the switch to running? I thought running would be easier on my body! Just kidding. I used to race USCF road and NORBA mountain bike races. I had a bad crash in a road bike race and broke my arm, skinned my face, and got a concussion. I lost my nerve after that. I met Scott a couple of weeks later and had a fluorescent green cast on my arm I think it might have helped me by getting his attention!
As we head into a new year, I look forward to the opportunities for RAW to reach the next level. In 2004, our goal to adopt a road through the park will come to fruition. We plan to grow the attendance at each race, which will allow us to increase our charitable donations to record highs.
Complete this sentence: My most embarrassing running moment was... It took me awhile to remember this because mostly anything goes in running, so why be embarrassed? I was running a 50K point to point race in Niagara Falls, Canada and the only other 50K I'd done was SunMart, so I just expected that there would be bathrooms along the course. There weren't, and it was all pretty urban and residential - no bushes or trees and I didn't have toilet paper. I was dying. I spotted a house that was having a garage sale, and begged to use their bathroom. They were very gracious and allowed me to use it, but I was very embarrassed. What has been your fondest running memory? The day after I ran my first 50K, SunMart, I ran my second White Rock Marathon with Scott. I knew Scott was planning on running the 50 mile one day and White Rock the next and I had it in the back of my mind that if I felt okay after SunMart, I'd try the marathon. I only had one pair of running shoes and they were covered in mud from SunMart, so I washed them as soon as we got home and stuffed them with newspaper, so they'd dry by morning. I didn't tell Scott until we got up that morning that I was doing the marathon too. We got to the marathon and I went and registered both of us. When I got back, Scott was wearing a huge Afro wig and ridiculous sunglasses, which he wore the whole marathon. We ran White Rock together and it was so much fun. (Continued on page 12)
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Increased membership Increased number of volunteers Increased social attendance (man does not live by running alone—nor does this woman) RAWear is everywhere
What it will take to accomplish these goals is involvement by every one of us. Even a few hours once or twice a year, if contributed by each member, would make a tremendous impact in our community. It’s been gratifying this year to see the number of people who have been introduced to our sport, or who have reached levels of achievement they never dreamed they could. It’s that spirit that we want to keep intact as we continue to grow. As Richard Craft says in his article this month, “It’s charisma...competition...drama... camaraderie...heroism...dreams.” Those are the attributes that our club was foundedon, they are what make us special, and they are what we need to keep close to heart. Here’s to more in 2004….
K2
Marathon madness and more Ironman Hawaii October 19, 2003 Kona, Hawaii By Alan Walker Hélène and I were very excited when we found out we’d both been selected in the lottery for Ironman Hawaii. We both started training for this race and actually blew off other races to prepare. I’d had a few foot problems over the summer, but things were coming together until we had a lightning strike and fire at our house in August. It is amazing how much conditioning you can lose in two months of dealing with the insurance company, chasing builders, feeling depressed and not getting in the long workouts that you need for this type of race. Still, there was never any question about going to Hawaii; this was a once in a lifetime chance for both of us to do the race. We were in Hawaii a few days before the race and got to swim a few mornings, and we also drove the bike course in its entirety. This is the world championship of triathlon, so all the elite athletes you’ve seen on TV and in magazines were there. Since I was under-trained and facing a hard day, I took the drastic and hitherto unprecedented measure of giving up beer for the week before the race. The swim start is really interesting – the start line is over 100m out in the water, so you swim out to it and tread water while you wait for the starting cannon to go off. The Pacific is warm and clear, and for the first few hundred meters you can see small coral reefs and tropical fish, but the water gets deeper as you get to the turn-around. I had decided to stay to the left and avoid the crowds, so even though my swim felt slow, I finished it in 1:10, which was pretty reasonable.
just starting to be a little overcast, so we’d avoid the blazing sunshine. I took it fairly easy in the transition, made sure I was hydrated and stretched a little, then started out on the run. The first section is a hilly part through town, and about two miles into the run my stomach was knotted up and I thought I was going to be sick. I did some quick calculations and figured I could walk 20 minute miles and finish before the Hélène and Alan (right) with the 25th Anniversary cutoff, so I started Ironman Hawaii champion Peter Reid walking and actually made 15 minute miles. Most of this section is a long out-andThe first few miles of the bike course back along Ali’i drive. I couldn’t face are around town, with some big hills. Gatorade at all and drank mostly CocaFortunately, it started out very calm. Cola. There was a beautiful sunset over Once we were up on the Queen K the ocean by the time I was back up on highway, the ride started to feel good. the Queen K highway and it rapidly got The road is hot-rolled asphalt, very dark. Once you’re in the dark, they also smooth, wide and has virtually no hand out hot chicken-broth, which was traffic. It’s mostly rolling hills, with infinitely better than Gatorade or Cocaalmost no flat sections, bordered by Cola. At mile 16, coming into the vast expanses of black lava. About 40Natural Energy Lab, I was feeling a lot 50 miles into the ride, approaching the better, so I ran from there to the finish. turnaround at Hawi, I was getting My marathon time was 5:38 and my dehydrated and my quads started cramping. The bike turnaround at Hawi overall time was 13:54. is always windy, with all the trees Overall, the race was a great experience. leaning towards you as you climb the I’d really like to do it again and be able hill into town, gaining nearly 600 feet. I to prepare properly. For a triathlete, this stopped for a few minutes after the is “the” race and it didn’t disappoint. turn, took a salt tablet and worked the There were certainly challenges to deal cramps out a little. Coming back, the with on the course, but the hordes of wind had picked up and the last 40 enthusiastic volunteers, the other miles or so was into a headwind the competitors and the general energy level whole way. The locals call the winds, make it really special. “ho’o mumuku” – now, I don’t speak Hawaiian, but I’m convinced it’s a swear word. I stopped again near the 90 In retrospect, maybe giving up beer was my problem…. mile mark, but started feeling better around mile 100. I finished the bike with a (slow) 6:47 split. When I got into T2, the fluids and salt tablets seemed to be kicking in and I actually felt like running. The sky was 4
(Continued on page 5)
Once out of the ocean, we ran towards the transition area (T1), grabbed our bike bag, and changed in the tent. Coming We got up at 5 am so that we would have plenty of time to get body-marked out of the tent, I was literally assaulted by 5 volunteers who slapped sunscreen and do the last check-ups. Or so we thought! When we got to the pier, it was all over me. Another volunteer accompanied me to covered with the athletic crowd. Apparently, everybody had had the same my bike, helped me strap on my helmet, and off I went for thought. an easy 112 miles in full sun, amid black lava and gusty The pre-swim wait was filled with headwinds rising to 20 mph. Tahitian music and the songs were so powerful that it gave me goose bumps. A calm day, by Hawaiian We stood in the water until the 5-minute standards. flag was raised. Then Alan kissed me The bike was uneventful. good luck, and swam towards the starting line. I waited a little longer, then There were lots of rolling slowly breaststroked towards the starting hills, 10 of which were pretty tough. I knew about the hills, line. The cannon finally sounded, and so they did not bother me, off we went! The swim was nice, with but the wind …. The winds lots of coral and tropical fish—blue, were so powerful in some yellow, silver. I felt strong and good, there was no one around me, and I kept areas that I couldn’t go faster than 10 mph downhill! I kept up a good pace until after the computing the remaining turnaround. I remember thinking that distance and time, and I knew they must keep moving the buoys further and further, because it felt longer that it was going to be close every time I had to reach the next buoy. to make the cutoff (5:30 pm). (A sad note: The father/son Hoyt team did not make it. Dad competes in triathlons pushing / pulling his 30+ year old son who has cerebral palsy and is unable to move. They flipped over somewhere around 85 miles when Dad tried to put his bottle back in the bottle holder. They both ended up in the hospital with some stitches, but nothing major. It reminded me of something I saw hanging from a tree: “Love Suffers Much.”) By Hélène (LN) Walker
Great job by Alan Walker! I finally made it back to the pier, and although I felt strong, I swam the distance in 1:44, which was disappointing.
After the bike, it was back to the transition area (T2) to change into running gear. Boy, was I glad to leave my bike! My left pinky, ring finger and part of my palm stayed numb for 4 days after the race! The run is my favorite event, and after 112 miles of biking, a marathon actually appealed to me. At the 14-mile 5
turnaround, located at the Energy Lab, I started counting the people behind me—there were 12. I passed another 8 people, which made me pretty happy. Every mile, I checked my watch to make
Ecstatic Finisher Hélène Walker sure I was under the cutoff. At mile 25, I finally picked up the pace, and ran a 9:05 mile! Going downhill towards the pier, you can hear the spectators and the Ironman announcer, and you can feel the adrenaline rush through your body! All along the pier, people are giving you the high five or running with you—it’s a wonderful feeling. And then: the lights, the bleachers with the delirious crowd, the finish line, the announcer talkng about you, the camera flashes, the TV crews, the volunteers rushing towards you, the doctor, and then Alan … What a glorious ending! After hugging Alan, I spotted two teenaged volunteers carrying pizza, and I rushed towards them, feeling like a vulture circling a carcass. And I don’t even like pizza! On Sunday night, we went to the awards banquet. On the big screen, they showed some athletes going through the Finish line. One of these athletes was … me!
Marathon madness and more They couldn't stand it, and actually went back to help her. It was her first marathon and she was sobbing her heart out. They stayed with her all the way to the finish! ‘Best Race Supporter’ goes to Susan Barnett for her timely and much needed water and cheering along the course. She drove two hours from Stillwater, Oklahoma the night before just to get to the race to help. She saved some RAW that day fer sure!
Wichita Marathon October 19, 2003 Wichita, Kansas By Kelly Richards On October 19th, a RAW contingent emerged onto the blazing plains of Kansas for the Wichita Marathon. We clearly didn’t see the forecast that called for a high around 90. Or perhaps we did, but were in denial. Regardless, you know you’re not in Boston when...
… the only reason you finish is because you can’t find the “sag-wagon.”
David Ball 3:29:11 Kelly Richards 3:49:17 Mel Crafton 4:05:09 JW Keeling 4:47:50 Brian Griffin 5:15:14 Steve Grady 5:15:14
Hats off to David Ball, Mel Crafton, Steve Grady, Brian Griffin, and JW Keeling for gutsy efforts under difficult circumstances.
New York City Marathon November 2, 2003
By David Ball
By Marybeth Crane
Ready to race: David Ball, JW Keeling (sporting the latest in RAWear), K2, Mel Crafton, Steve Grady, Brian Griffin
… you’re 100 yards from the start and you have to ask a traffic cop where the marathon is. … there’s no race expo, chip timing, or any other sign of civilization. … the whole town gives you a blank stare when you ask where you can go “carbo-load.” … you pass the signs on the Air Force base that say, “Danger! Do Not Enter! Firing Range” – and it seems like a good alternative to finishing the race. … the buzzards circling the dead dog start to follow you.
October 19, 2003. Wichita, Kansas is usually quite chilly by mid October, but not on this marathon day. At start time the temp was warmer than you'd hope the finishing temp to be, mid 50 degrees. No wind, thank goodness. Sun was blinding. No clouds. You ran under shade wherever you could find it. The 9mile Air Force base segment was completely exposed to the sun. Finish temp was close to 90 degrees. In past years, their water station placement of every 2 miles may have been adequate, but for this weekend, it spelled disaster for many runners. Still, LGRAW performed well and even came home with hardware, (K-2 placed 4th in the female 30-34 age group; D Ball almost placed, but finished 47th overall).
New York, New York.—what a weekend! 34,000 runners, and it felt like all of them were squished into a one lane road. Heather Wallace and I were off to NYC—no kids, no husbands, just a girls’ weekend out (and a marathon, of course). Heather and I started the weekend on Friday night by going to a Broadway show and then having dessert in Times Square while people watching (yes, it was Halloween....and yes, the freaks were out!). Christine Carman caught up with us on Saturday. We were off to the expo at 9am. Thank God our internal Mom clocks get us up early, because we were able to get our 4th place age group: K2 numbers in less than 20 minutes and by the time we left, the line was out the … you see three spectators taking IVs. door and down the street . We bought … the finish line announcer stops one of everything (or maybe it only calling out finishers to announce that the Of course, there’s some touching stories seemed that way) and then it was off to that go with this race like all races. Steve 5th Avenue. Lots of window shopping course is closing in 15 minutes and would you all please pick up your bags and Brian were at mile 16 when they passed a young woman who was crying. so that Mrs. Johnson can go home. (Continued on page 7) 6
Ruyle! s Tom n io t la atu Congr 4 e 50-5 d in th RP r 3 d e A ish Tom fin roup at the A g lo e h n ag al Triat Nation ionship! p Cham
I must have looked pretty pathetic (and one really cool pair of shoes) later, in the last few miles, because at least 3 people asked me if I wanted we were in the biggest Macy's in the world. I have never seen that many pairs to drop out. At the finish, a large black of shoes in one place! And as a podiatrist, man actually picked me up and carried me to the medical tent. No permanent I love shoes. Saturday night we had a great damage, but I was definitely out for a few pasta meal with all the gang. War stories weeks. Heather and Christine fared much of other marathons are always fun the better. Christine relates a fun filled race night before. through the NYC scenery and Heather did manage a PR! Sunday morning was 55 degrees and sunny. We went to the start by limo (much better than the bus!) It was way too crowded and had the longest bathroom line I have ever seen. It took us only about 3 minutes to get over the starting line, but we were bunched up tight for almost 8 miles. Heather and I were weaving in and out of traffic and were on pace for a 3:40 by 3 miles. We passed P. Ditty at 8 miles and took his picture—what a funny story that was. (Continued from page 6)
buying a pair of shorts. When we were out and about in Times Square that Halloween night, I figured it would be a WILD scene, but it wasn’t. That is, not much wilder than usual. The next day we bought souvenirs, saw a matinee (Chicago), and generally took it easy. For the big pasta dinner, we went to a very interesting diner – complete with singing wait staff. I hit the hay early and tossed and turned most of the night.
Marathon morning came early, as the last bus leaves at 7am. This leaves plenty of time to mill around, because the race doesn’t start until 10:10. The race organizers did a good job of clearing the first corral (seeding is based on your recent marathon time), making all of us show our number, then checking anyone else who wanted to get in. As the start Heather and I were on pace and time drew near, we began a slow feeling good until the Queensboro march to the start line. The sun bridge. It was 1:49 at the halfway was blazing high in the sky and I mark and we were psyched for a was perspiring slightly before Two Texas girls in the big city: PR! The crowd was awesome the race even began. Not a good Marybeth Crane and Heather Wallace and loud. The bridge seemed to omen! The announcer, obviously go on forever and I was talking a non-runner, said “Don’t drink nonstop all the way up... unless you’re thirsty” (?!?!) Finally the gun unfortunately, I got to the crest of the By Duncan Stewart boomed and we were off, sort of. There bridge and turned to say to Heather it was Well, the 2003 New York City Marathon was a bit of chaos for the first mile or so all downhill from here, and found the is in the books. The weather was great for due to a large group of slower runners person I had been talking to wasn't between us and the starting line – some Heather (She did thank me for the words watching a marathon, but not so great for logistical mix-up, I guess. Mile 1 went by running one. But hey – if it were easy, of encouragement.) I was on my own with me “only” behind schedule by a everyone would be doing it. from there, but was feeling pretty good minute. Not that it was to matter in the and had only lost about 30 seconds in the end. hilly mile. I was just starting to get into a My wife and I flew up on Friday, and a good groove and feeling optimistic about buddy met us at the airport and took us to Despite this being my 21st marathon, I our hotel. That sure was nice! After a PR when I fell on the grated bridge at made a few mistakes. The first was trying checking in, we strolled over to Times about 19.5 miles. They had covered the to squeeze more miles out of my flats, bridge with a carpet and I caught my toe Square and got a couple half-price theatre which were a year old. The second was in on a carpet lump. Very gracefully, I fell on tickets for Cabaret (not a show for kids!), trying to make up ground on a lousy day. then walked over to the expo. I was my right knee, rolled onto my right The third was in allowing myself to get disappointed – here I was, ready to load shoulder, and smashed my left kneecap dehydrated, which led to cramping and up on NYC merchandise, and most of the into the grate. I got up and walked for a some slight dizziness and nausea later. stuff they had was of mediocre quality. while, knee stiff and bleeding, but still Lastly, I underestimated the toughness of Oh, and they were very proud of their working. I realized I could still run, so I the course. It didn’t look so hard on the slowly progressed my way to the finish. So stuff. The jacket, which was only a (Continued on page 8) much for a PR, but I still beat the rapper! windbreaker, was $160!! I ended up only 7
Marathon madness and more (Continued from page 7)
elevation map! By the halfway point I knew I was in for a bad day, and by 18 I was struggling. If it weren’t for the crowd support, I would have finished 5-10 minutes slower. Even so, I lost 12 minutes on the back half and finished with a 3:05. I could barely walk afterwards, but managed to hobble the 30 blocks back to the hotel. On Monday we went to Ground Zero, which is a big construction pit now. I didn’t feel solemn like I did at the USS Arizona Memorial (Pearl Harbor), probably because there isn’t a special area set aside for remembrance yet. Visits to Central Park and the Empire State Building rounded out our day. Next time, we’d like to check out the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim.
Palo Duro Trail Run October 18, 2003 Palo Duro State Park, Texas 20k distance: Tia Metzger Courtney Noell John Bush
2:49:27 PR Distance 2:48:19 2:48:22
50k distance: Mustafa Varol Doug Noell Marty Metzger
7:16:34 PR Distance 6:48:06 PR Distance 7:29:25
White Rock Half Marathon November 1, 2003 Dallas, Texas
Duncan Stewart chases down the competition at the New York City Marathon
New York Marathon Results: Duncan Stewart 3:05:26 Clay Cox 3:31 Marybeth Crane 3:52:26 Heather Wallace 3:53:38 (PR) Andrea Lorden 4:53:49 Christine Carman 5:14:54 Tony Dominiec 5:21:19
Bob Kolbaba 1:22:01 1st Age Group Jon Korte 1:26:52 5th Age Group Dana Bullard 1:30:05 5th Overall Yolana Hopping 1:34:01 3rd Masters Mike Eccleston 1:43:25 Lee Miller 1:47:56 Ryan Burns 1:58:28 Mel Crafton 1:58:55 Lesley Bruce 2:00:15 Noreen Henry 2:00:38 Jack Green 2:01:28 Tina Covington 2:05:46 Mustafa Varol 2:12:15 Roy Lange 2:31:00 Susan Barnett 2:36:38 Rick Fogle 2:36:37 Amy Hopkins 2:40:45
Rockledge Rumble November 8, 2003 Grapevine, Texas 10k distance: Tom Zack
1:07:33
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25k distance: Yolanda Hopping 2:16:24 Steve Bryant 2:23:38 Tom Ruyle 2:23:39 Rick Sanford 2:39:05 Scott Decker 2:39:28 Lee Miller 2:41:21 Jay Teinert 2:58:06 Rick Fogle 3:23:02 Deborah Evans 3:23:40 50k distance: Scott Eppelman 4:18:15 Mustafa Varol 7:14:09 Marty Metzger 7:36:07
Toronto Marathon October 19, 2003 Toronto, Canada Liz Shanks 3:51:12 4th Age Group
Marine Corps Marathon October 26, 2003 Washington, DC Lee Rebodos Dan Cole Shelley Minnis Chris McConnell
3:16:46 3:34:30 5:38:30 3:54:42
First marathon for Shelley and Chris!
Big D 30K November 16, 2003 Dallas, Texas Julie Sheridan 2:41:05 2nd Age Group Lee Miller 2:22:02 Terry Marcott 1:53:43 Ryan Burns 3:14:52 Diana Hager 2:40:57
RAW celebrates the holiday season t t coun s lo e W eople! at 85 p
Alan & Lisa Noell
Gary Howsam, Joe &Evelyn Luccioni
Susan & Mike Eccleston
Thank you for the POF race RAW goes to Austin to present checks
Joe and TonyThanks for taking the time to come to our office and personally deliver the trophy and your contribution. I really enjoyed visiting with you, and we are very touched that our scholarship fund was chosen to receive a good portion of your fundraising efforts. I meant to offer a TSAFF golf shirt to each of you while you were here, but it slipped my mind. Please let me know your sizes and an address that we can send it to.
Joe Luccioni and Tony Dominiec recently made a trip to Austin to present the proceeds from the Protectors of Freedom 5k. They presented checks for $3350.00 each to the Peace Officers Memorial Foundation and the Texas State Association of Firefighters. A donation of $1800 went to the Michael Lynch Foundation.
I will send you a copy of our newsletter with the article featuring the event as well. Thanks again and God bless.
Joe and Tony are shown above with Rebecca Harkrider of the POMF, and a thank you letter from Mike Higgins, Chief of Staff of the TSAFF, is shown to the left.
Mike
The Protectors of Freedom race honors those who serve us every day, and was established in memory of Michael Lynch, a firefighter who lost his life in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. 9
Baby steps...the early days of RAW By Richard Craft
Those of you new to RAW may not know Richard Craft, the founder of our club. Richard has graciously agreed to write a series of articles about the beginnings of RAW. In the next few issues of the Footprint, he has promised to share some of the more memorable and humorous moments in RAW history.
there’s my friend Jack who not only looks like Kramer (hair and all) but also has the knack for getting himself into “situations.” Then there’s Gene, my dentist and a dead ringer for George Castanza in appearance and mannerism as well. While my friend Jenna bears no physical resemblance (6 foot blonde CHAPTER ONE: triathlete) to the Seinfeld character DINNER WITH FRED Elaine, she embodies her spirit perfectly (she used to flash the New This is the story of how I was touched York Rangers in Madison Square by the late Fred Lebow, Founder of the Garden). So….I guess that leaves New York City Marathon and me… as Jerry…ugh! President and Chairman of the New York Road Runners Club. I met Fred The Big Tent by chance, but it changed the way I For several years, Jack, Gene, Jenna looked at running and contributed to and I met in Central Park for Road the foundations of RAW. Runner events and to train for the New York City Marathon. The marathon was an annual celebration of our friendship, and we had many Seinfeld-like rituals, phobias and stories. But there was one event we avoided after our first year: The Pasta Party sponsored by the official NYCM pasta company.
RAW Founder Richard Craft The Seinfeld Factor For much of the 80’s and 90’s, I was a marketing exec for a company just outside New York City. During that time, my family lived in Dallas, Southern California and New Jersey, but I spent about half of my time in the Big Apple, home of the show “Seinfeld”! I mention this because my friends and accomplices in this tale could have come directly from the show. Let me introduce you to the cast. First of all,
NYC marathon literature made the pasta party sound like a big deal— Central Park, Tavern on the Green, celebrities, carbo-loading. But in reality it was not in Tavern on the Green, but next to it and resembled a military chow line. A giant tent…long tables of tin-foil containers of noodles and bread…ladled onto disposable plates….served with paper cups of Gatorade to be consumed quickly in the cold at one of the dozens of long tables and benches. Efficient? Yes. An Event? No. Tavern on the Green Next to the big tent was Tavern on the Green, an elegant restaurant, brightly lit, and nestled in the heart of Central Park. While the runners were herded through the chow lines, the Tavern hosted dignitaries, world class runners,
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shoe reps and pasta company execs, all being served the newest in noodle creations from silver platters on fine crystal with an open bar and soft music. It was 1992, the night before the marathon. Jack, Gene, Jenna and I were in The City, on our way to enjoy our own pasta party in Little Italy, and then it happened. Jack (Kramer) decided that this would be the year that we went to the Pasta Party—but not in the tent. No! We were going to the Tavern on the Green—all we had to do was follow his lead. Thank You, Carl Lewis! Our cab arrived at the Tavern at the same time as several limos. As the four of us tumbled from our dented yellow monster, a crowd gathered to see the contents of the newly arrived, smooth, shiny stretch. “Carl Lewis! Carl Lewis is here!” As we headed for the door to the Tavern, throngs of people passed us—going the opposite direction—to meet Carl’s car. We entered the now deserted lobby of the restaurant and found it plastered with marathon posters and pasta promotional items. “Official Pasta of the New York City Marathon.” (Huh?) Boxes of pasta had been stacked like Legos to form clever sculptures. To our left was an unguarded door to our objective, The Tavern on the Green. With a few confident steps, Jack was inside. Gene, Jenna and I watched with amazement as no alarms or sirens sounded. Jack plucked a long stemmed glass of champagne from a table and stuck his tongue out at us. We shrugged and followed. Pasta People Stealthily we slipped into the milling sea of the marathon elite. There were tuxedos (lots of black tuxedos), there
were thin people in shiny running suits emblazoned with foreign flags, hip looking former jocks with colorful jackets, and more black tuxedos. Name badges revealed that these were the “Pasta People.” And there we were, plucking exotic carbo-laden creations from passing attendants, sipping sparkling water and living large.
His head swiveled. His eyes darted. There, next to us in the crowd was a thin, frail man in a tattered beanie, dressed in sweats. Like us, he seemed out of place amongst the finery and tuxedos. But this was Fred Lebow, Founder of the Marathon and Chairman of the NYRRC. He was dying of brain cancer, but still working the crowd. In a blink, Jack had one arm around Fred “Every jogger can’t and the other arm dream of being an gathering the three of us to his side. In Olympic champion, his best Brooklyn but he can dream accent, he boomed, “Fred, there you of finishing a are. We’ve been marathon.” looking all over for you!”
While Carl Lewis had provided the cover for our entrance, we were easily exposed once inside. First, we had no name badges and second, our attire stood in stark contrast to the polished look of the Pasta People. Jack sported the layered look—a Yankees t-shirt, an orange hooded sweatshirt and an acid washed jean jacket. Gene looked like a squat, green Michelin man in his quilted JETS jacket and hat. Jenna was sporting the latest in Grunge flannel ala Pearl Jam…and I was wrapped in black leather and denim (hey, I lived in LA). The black-clad Pasta People were everywhere…. watching us…staring… whispering…pointing…first in small groups, then in a large huddle. More stares…whispers…and then they sent forth the King of the Pasta People. He marched straight towards us with a fixed stare and a determined stride. The alpha male was going to protect His territory from the interlopers.
Foundations of RAW This thing Fred had created—this marathon, this running club—wasn’t about winning or tuxedos or celebrities. It was about giving everyday people like Jack, Gene, Jenna and me—and the 60year-old grandma—a dream we all could share. Our friendship was centered on Fred’s gift and we will forever be grateful.
Years later, after Fred had passed away, I read an article that quoted him: “The marathon is a charismatic event. It has everything. It has drama. It has competition. It has camaraderie. It has heroism. Every jogger can’t dream of being an Olympic champion, but he can dream of finishing a marathon.” Charisma…Competition…Drama… Camaraderie…Heroism…Dreams! Fred lit up. “Hey, These are Fred’s elements of a Hey! Good to see you!” And you know, marathon, and the foundations of RAW. he made us believe it. In an instant, Jack and Fred had completely transformed us from four scraggly interlopers to Friends of Fred (F.O.F.), protected by some invisible bubble. The Pasta King halted his attack, stood staring in disbelief, and returned to his tribe defeated. Dinner with Fred
Soon it was time for dinner to be served. Fred, obviously weak from standing, grabbed the closest chair. His aide sat on one side, Jack on the other. Whether Jack meant to continue the ruse or just make small talk, his next question elicited an answer that Fred Lebow changed everything for me. “So Fred, F.O.F. who’s your favorite in tomorrow’s I moved back to Texas in 1996. I Jack and Gene were busy snarfing race?” missed the City and Jack, Gene and snacks and schmoozing with people Jenna, but I immediately started who had no idea who they were. Jack With calmness and clarity, and with the working on something to replace them. even conned a young watch company tone of a college professor imparting a And while Lake Grapevine is not rep to give him a freebie. But Jenna and grain of truth, Fred replied, “I don’t Central Park (where Fred’s statue now I knew the “jig was up” from the care who wins. Those guys can take overlooks the runners) his spirit lives in minute we entered. We sensed the care of themselves. But somewhere out RAW, and in the many new friends it glares of the Pasta People and saw the there tomorrow will be a 60-year-old has brought to me. approach of their leader. “Dude, we are grandmother running her first sooo busted,” whined Jenna. It didn’t marathon. This is all for her. That’s Thanks, Fred...for everything! take long for Jack to grasp the situation. what I care about.” 11
(Continued from page 3)
Volunteers were throwing themselves at "AfroMan" and we'd run into an aid station and the volunteers would yell "Water, Gatorade, Vaseline" and Scott would yell back "Where's the AfroSheen?" It is one of the few times ever that I was able to run with Scott without feeling like I was really slowing him down. I think that was the first and last time that we comfortably ran the same pace—slow.
Anti-turkey trot 2003 By Fireman Ken MacInnes
Where is the most unique or unusual place you've run? Through the drainage/sewer access system under Fort Worth - it was a Hash House Harriers run. What do you consider your biggest running achievement? Finishing MiWok 100K, my first 100K, after falling at mile 55 and severely dislocating my little finger. It was at a 90 degree angle. I had to walk the last 6 miles, but I still finished 1 hour and 20 minutes ahead of the cutoff time, which I think was 16 hours. What about your non-running life would most surprise club members? I don't know. Maybe the quantity of habaneros and garlic cloves that I put in my green bean stir fry. No running after eating that dish! I'll have to bring it to the next RAW party, but not for the faint of heart and stomach! Anything else you'd like to add? Yes, what a great and friendly club RAW is. I was so proud of this club for all the hard work and support of one another in putting on the first Protector's of Freedom. That's when I really decided that this group is wonderful and special. I had to become more involved because I wanted to be an active part of it.
RAW LOGO
SWEATSHIRTS ARE IN!
SEE K2 FOR MORE INFO
There is a nearly famous running club named RAW Who’s logo looks a lot like a paw. On weekends they do meet It’s often considered a treat Then they gather and discuss what they saw. On Turkey day every year Before opening the beer At Rockledge they do gather To run up a big lather Then eat non-stop without fear. The benefits of the run having been sold Gathered 30 runners ages young, medium and old Slow, in-between and the fast From amazingly varying pasts They planned to be Bold in the Cold. There were doctors and others and kids with their mothers Who’s goal was not to race but visit with each other Ray did the Hound Dog Hustle with his best pet Along the trail was there no need to fret Then everyone ran back to the start to take cover. Someone might consider a Duct-Tape Duet Next time it might be a good bet Saves doing the trail over After watering the clover For a man with his keys in a set. Flashing off down the trail, trying not to look stupid On Donner, on Blitzen, on Comet and Cupid (Oops, sorry, wrong holiday). A Protector of Freedom is in charge of the annual race A humorous article he must produce in order to save face Next year we will see more Hard runner to the core And a better article to keep up the pace. 12
Giving back to the sport This is the second installment of a new feature in The Footprint, which highlights someone who has done something above and beyond the call of duty for our sport, or for a fellow athlete.
runners commented about what a lift it gave them to see and hear their club cheering them on.
We want to hear about your race, regardless of distance or time!
As the lead runners approached the aid station, there was a mishap between the media truck and the RAW banner which was spanning the road. Alan Engisch took the brunt of the accident and got a trip to the hospital in the bargain. It was great to see the way the club responded, staying calm, recovering quickly, and making sure Alan was cared for. (He’s fine, except for some lost sunglasses.)
There were several good candidates this month, including Rick Fogle for sticking with Susan at the White Rock Half when she cratered at mile 8, Major Mike for coming back to find them, and Lee Miller and David Ball for pulling each other through a tough race at Sunmart (more to come on this next issue). But this month’s winners are the volunteers at the White Rock Marathon Aid Station. It’s wonderful to see how our club members support each other. First of all, thanks to JW Keeling and Congratulations to all the volunteers— his cohort in crime Tom Byno, for you are our “Giving Back to the Sport” agreeing to be the organizers of the award winners! station. It’s a thankless job that’s a lot of work, and they came through like the To nominate someone for the “Giving Back to champs they are. Nearly 60 RAW the Sport” award, send an email to Marty members volunteered, and many of the Metzger at mmetz@ix.netcom.com..
Send your race stories to Editorx@RunnersAndWalkers.com
The other holiday races Turkey trots and jingle bell runs While the anti-turkeys were busy antirunning at Rockledge Park, a few other RAW members ran the more traditional events. Fort Worth Turkey Trot: Terry Marcott: 1st Masters Overall Dallas Turkey Trot: Noel Widdowson Eileen Fontaine Richard Fontaine Susan Barnett Fort Worth Jingle Bell Run: Craig Minyard: 4th overall, 2nd age group Jeanne Minyard Terry Marcott Doug Noell Courtney Noell Pat Noell Richard Fontaine: 2nd age group Eileen Fontaine: 2nd age group Susan Barnett: 3rd age group 13
A family affair: Sam Barnett, Eileen & Richard Fontaine, Susan Barnett, Craig Fontaine, Carlon Doyle Guess which one is taking this WAY too seriously? Dallas Jingle Bell Run: Lee Rebodos: 1st age group
Presented by:
The Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers Club
Saturday, January 17, 2004 Oak Grove Park, Grapevine, TX Start 8:00 am (5K & 15K)
COURSE
Both courses are on park roads along the southern shore of Lake Grapevine.
LOCATION
Oak Grove Park, at the north end of Dove Loop Road. Take Highway 121, 114 or 26 to Main Street, Grapevine. Drive North through historic downtown. Turn Left on Northwest Highway @ Elliot’s Hardware. Drive ½ mile. Turn right at PDQ at Dove Road. Drive North 2 miles (no other turns) to the softball field’s parking lot. The RAW Clubhouse is across the street. Start/Finish Line is in front of the RAW clubhouse.
ENTRY FEES
Adults (early registration, received by Jan 12th) - $13.00 Adults (late and race day registration) - $15.00 Students or LGRAW Member - $10.00 Group Rate (minimum of 5 mailed together and received by Jan 12th) - $12.00
AWARDS
Trophies will be presented to the 1st overall male & female winners and 1st masters male & female winners in the 5K & 15K. Top three male and female finishers in each of the following age groups will receive awards: 10 and under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and Over. All participants receive a 2004 Bold in the Cold coffee cup. (Guaranteed to the first 250 registered participants.)
CONTACT
John Bush at 817.545.8183
http://www.runnersandwalkers.com
“Bold in the Cold” Entry Form - Saturday, January 17th, 2004 NAME_______________________________________________ ADDRESS ___________________________________________ CITY _____________________________STATE ____________ AGE ________ SEX _______ E-mail ______________________
15K ___ 5K ___ PHONE __________ ZIP ______________
Race entry fees: ____ $13 adults (received by 1/12/04)
_____ $15 adults (late& race day registration) _____ $10 students & LGRAW members _____ $12 group (minimum of 5, received by 1/12/04)
_____ Grapevine Community Center – Jan 15th and 16th from 3-7 p.m. _____ Race Day Morning at LGRAW
I will pick my packet up at:
Make check payable to “LGRAW” (Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers Club) Mail your check and entry form to: LGRAW, P.O. Box 2982, Grapevine, TX 76099 WAIVER STATEMENT: In consideration of the acceptance of this entry, I assume full and complete responsibility for any injury or illness which may directly or indirectly result from my participation in the January 17, 2004 Bold in the Cold 15K and 5K runs and I hereby release and hold harmless the directors, sponsors, promoters, officials, and all persons and entities associated with this event form any and all injury and damage. I state that I will run or walk at my own risk.
Signature: ________________________________________________________ Date: ____________ Signature of participant or parent, if participant is under 18 years old
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Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers Club Membership Application Name: ___________________________________________
____ Male ____ Female
DOB:____/____/____
Address: _________________________________________
____ New Membership
____ Renewal
City: ____________________________________________
Is it okay to publish this information in the club directory?____
State: ______________________
Participating Family Members: Name:_______________________ Name:_______________________ Name:_______________________ Name:_______________________
Zip Code: _________
Home Phone: (____)_______________________________ E-Mail Address: __________________________________
___M ___F ___M ___F ___M ___F ___M ___F
DOB:___/___/___ DOB:___/___/___ DOB:___/___/___ DOB:___/___/___
I know that participating and volunteering to work in club events can be potentially hazardous. I assume all risks associated with running, walking, and volunteering to work in club events. Having read this waiver and knowing these facts, and in consideration of your acceptance of my application for membership, I, for myself and anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the Lake Grapevine Runners and Walkers, Inc., United States of America Track and Field, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors from all claims of liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in club activities. I grant permission to all of the foregoing to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings or any other records for any legitimate purpose.
Membership Dues: _____ $20 Single _____ $30 Family Check here if you need two membership cards: _____ Signature____________________________________________________
Mail to: LGRAW P.O. Box 2982 Grapevine, TX 76099 Date:_____/_____/_____
Welcome to LGRAW!
New members
Renewals
Mark Everett Katie and Mike Knowlton Noreen Reese Pat Saunders
Ted Ray Amyx David and Becky Aungst Richard and Susan Brooker Steve and Debbie Bryant Suzi Cope Marybeth Crane Babette Derendinger The Eccleston Family Richard and Eileen Fontaine Steve Grady Randy Hall Susan and Ray Harris Yolanda Hopping Gary Howsam Chuck Kennard Kandy Kobar Hector Lora Ken Macinnes Mark Miller The Pugliese Family Lee Rebodos Tim and Roxanne Schroeder Duncan Stewart Dixie Terry John Vinings Noel Widdowson 15
Personal touches Who’s that gorgeous blue-eyed guy we’ve been seeing around the clubhouse? It’s Alek Agoranos, recently arrived from Russia. Paul and Michaelann are the proud (and tired) parents. By the time you read this, Alan and Hélène Walker will be back in their house, which was struck by lightning last August. Hélène’s mother Fanny is here and has already become an honorary RAW member. The Walkers asked us to express their sincere thanks for the Christmas ornaments, which will put them on their way toward replacing those lost in the fire. Curtis and Katie Woodard will soon be leaving us for the mountains of Colorado. We will miss them, and wish them the very best. We expect you to stay in close touch with us! Annette Collins is recovering from foot surgery. Get well soon!
Lake Grapevine Grapevine Runners Runnersand andWalkers Walkers P.O. Box P.O. Box2982 2982 TX 76099 Grapevine, TX 76099
Bold in the cold 5k/15k
PRSRT STD PRSRT STD AA U.S.Postage Postage Paid Paid U.S. Grapevine, TX Grapevine, TX PermitNo. No.243 243 Permit
January 17
8:00 am
RAW clubhouse
Hang your stockings and say your prayers By Dennis Novak A cartoon in my daughter’s swimming magazine shows a young swimmer on Santa’s lap, asking for 5 seconds off his 100 freestyle. If that’s all we needed to improve our times – there’d be a long line of runners at the malls. But since Santa is probably not dispensing PRs this year, I thought I’d submit some alternate suggestions for filling some RAW stockings (the CoolMax kind purchased from K2, of course). Byron: A subscription to the witness protection program’s official list of fake names. (I think Joe Valachi was the first to use “Randy Wholeway.”) K-2: A can of spray-on minivan repellant. Dave Aungst: A 9-year training program to prepare him for running those two marathons when he turns 60. Eileen: A sedan chair (with bearers) to carry her over the Rockledge trails.
Tom Byno: A beer that’s brewed for breakfast. Polar Bear: An overdue Boston medal “1st Place – Broken Foot - Male.” Terry Marcott: The lead role as a small-town track coach with a troubled past in the movie, “Hoosiers 2.” The Harley Boys (Tony and Joe): Matching black leather racing singlets. Guy: A Snakey Lane Starbucks.
Gabe and Rick F: Matching Boston marathon t-shirts that say, “Hey man, it’s just a training run.” Alan and LN: Poi-flavored Power Bars (for next year). Scott E: A list of all the short-cuts. Fireman Ken: Some anti-pumpkin pie for dessert. For the whole club: A margarita machine at the first water stop.
Stacie S: (Santa’s already brought her year-round bathrooms at both ends of the course – what more could a girl ask for?)
An escalator on that hill just before the 3-mile mark.
Lee Miller: Assertiveness training.
For me – I’ll just take a box of assorted punctuation and wish everyone in RAW a healthy and joyous holiday season.!!!
Susan B. A well-deserved Pulitzer. Major Mike: A long-desired howitzer. 16
Our old front porch back.