www.marathonmakeover.com
The Official Hotel of the 2009 Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon Embassy Suites Jackson - North/Ridgeland 200 Township Place, Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157 Tel: 1-601-607-7112 Fax: 1-601-607-7116
contents 7 features 7 Eat Right Marathon Makeover inspires new dish at The Auditorium Restaurant in Ridgeland
8
8 Kossman’s Crossing Battling obstacles, runner meets new challenges, faces life anew By Jack Criss
12 Local car dealership takes part When Robert Mack showed up for work at Patty Peck Honda of Ridgeland one day last spring, he had no idea that he’d be training for a marathon less than a year later. By Natalie Criss
14 Todd Starnes
Fox News anchor survives heart surgery, loses 300 pounds and runs a marathon Interview by Paula K. Parker
16 Mark & Robin Simpson
14
Mississippi entrpreneurs tranform lives, turning couch potatoes into marathon finishers By Jack Criss
extras 22 Team Vicksburg
www.marathonmakeover.com
A look at the Vicksburg Marathon Makeover program
26 Marathon Seen Photos of Marathon Makeover events and participants
On the Cover
Mark and Robin Simpson founders of Marathon Makeover. To find out more, visit www.marathonmakeover.com. MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 1
from the publishers
This is our story and we’re sticking to it
I
n January, 2004 we began the journey of a lifetime. However, we had no idea what steps we had really taken until we were well along our way. Marathon Makeover began as a challenge, one given to Mark by a friend to run a marathon. This friend offered to train Mark personally if he could gather five more people who would also train. Being the natural recruiter Mark is, he set out to work to do just that. By January, he had recruited two dozen or more people, including Robin. We began our training with a room full of eager people, ready to get their training underway, completely ignorant of what the next few months would bring. We muddled through that first year, faithfully following the schedule and instructions our coach set before us. It was a tough schedule which, at times, had us doing 10-mile runs during the week along with our long runs on Saturday. It was a grueling training season. All of us learned a lot that year. Most importantly, we learned how much desire, commitment and perseverance it takes to stick to marathon training and how little actual running has to do with it; it’s much more a case of training yourself mentally. When we crossed the finish line we were different people than the ones who had begun at the start line just a few hours earlier. We had found out what it meant to be a marathoner. After returning from that initial race, family members and friends of our marathoners wanted in on the fun and asked if we were going to do it again. It did not take long for us to see this as an incredible opportunity to motivate others to get up off of the couch and get moving. We got to work, revised the schedule and in 2005 began our second training season. Each year, Marathon Makeover has experienced growth and improvements; since 2003, we have helped over 1000 people train for and complete a marathon. Standing at the finish line, cheering our participants on, has afforded us some of our favorite moments. Seeing all of their months of hard work pay off and carry them through the race to the finish line is amazing! Our Marathon Makeover team has brought an overwhelming amount of joy into our life. Now, in our sixth year of Marathon Makeover, we cannot imagine doing anything else. We are constantly inspired by our participants who get up each day, lace up their shoes and head out the door to put in their miles. A few months ago, they were couch potatoes…but not now. They are our heroes and they are marathoners. This magazine is for them and those who want to be like them.
Mark and Robin Simpson Couch potatoes turned marathoners
MAGAZINE
Volume 1, Issue 1 Published by Marathon Makeover, LLC Publishers Mark and Robin Simpson Consultant Jack Criss Layout Pevey Publishing, LLC publisher@mssportsmagazine.com Contributing Writers Jack Criss, Natalie Criss, Paula K. Parker, Scot Long Photographers Jeff Sanders, Clark Ethridge, Thomas Beck, Robin Simpson, Matt Broome Cover Photo by Tim Little Advertising Sales For advertising information contact Mark and Robin Simpson at 601-594-1486
Marathon Makeover Magazine is a bi-monthly supplement to the Marathon Makeover wellness program designed to promote health and wellness in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all labeled materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Marathon Makeover Magazine are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any and all advertising. For information, call our office at 601594-1486. © Copyright 2009 Marathon Makeover, LLC.
MARATHONMAKEOVER www.marathonmakeover.com
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715 South Jefferson Street Jackson, Mississippi 39201 (601) 948-3333
MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 3
mississippi race reviews
To run or not to run?
A closer look at statewide races
The following is a guide to road races in the state of Mississippi over the next few months. With the many area-wide track clubs in our state and the ever-growing number of road races to choose from, we will try in every issue to pick the “must compete” races and offer our reviews of the events themselves. Never have there been so many choices, on any given weekend, to partake in a 5 or 10K or other race. Marathon Makeover magazine sorts it out for you so the only thing you’ll have to sweat is the race itself!
Highway 61 Blues 5K Run & Walk
The Courthouse Celebration 5K
Saturday, June 6, 2009 Leland, MS 5K Run/Walk Start: 8 am Fun Run Start: 9 am Rating: NNNN 1/2
Saturday, June 20, 2009 Jackson, MS. 5K Run/Walk Start: 8 am Rating: NNNN
Overview: In its second year, the 2009 Highway 61 Blues 5K Run & Walk has the potential to be a major destination for those runners who also happen to be blues fans. The extremely flat course, which goes along Deer Creek in Leland a few miles east of Greenville, gives 5K runners a good opportunity to score a PR. Held in conjunction with the city’s Highway 61 Blues Festival, this race offers a small town feel and friendliness that are sometimes missing from the bigger races. This year, pizza, door prizes, live blues music, kids games and a nice selection of post-race recovery bars (a great plus) will again be offered. Be prepared, however: temperatures are extremely warm at this race and sunscreen might be necessary for the slower runners. Stay in Leland after the race for the great downtown music fest which has become a major draw over the last ten years and visit the new Highway 61 Blues Museum just a short walk from the race. Positives: Great feel, flat course, not overly crowded, good post-race snacks and blues. Negatives: Scenery is so-so, hot, watch the uneven asphalt as you run. For more information on this race, including costs, call Wynn Loudon at 662-822-9700 or go to www.mstrackclub.com
Tomato Festival 5K Run/Walk/One Mile Fun Run Saturday, June 27, 2009 Crystal Springs, MS 5K Run/Walk Start: 8 am Rating: NNNN
Another race held in conjunction with an annual city event, the Tomato Festival 5K in Crystal Springs benefits the Beautification of the City of Crystal Springs. The 5K Run/Walk kicks off the day’s events and many runners choose to stay in town and participate in the other activities that are offered. The race itself is another “good feel” small town event that is steadily growing in attendance. There is a charm about this run that you can pick up on even while competing: the spectators, while not huge in number, are very encouraging and supportive. Positives: Another nice, small town run that benefits that city itself. The Tomato Festival 5K can be considered a nice training race as well as a getaway daytrip. Negatives: Have we mentioned that it’s hot in Mississippi in June? For more information on the Tomato Festival race, including costs, go to www.mstrackclub.com. 4 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
Another race, which has grown in popularity, is The Courthouse Celebration 5K. The field has become rather crowded over the past few years and, in keeping with what seems to be a trend in 2009, will probably be even bigger this year. This run goes through a Northeast Jackson neighborhood and provides little shade so, again, be prepared for heat and sun if the clouds don’t appear. Thankfully, fluids are in good supply at the Courthouse 5K. Nevertheless, even seasoned runners can “feel the heat” at this time of year and during this particular race. Positives: Relatively flat and quick course, pleasant to run. Big crowd, if you like your competition a little tougher. Negatives: Hey – it’s Mississippi in June! This race is steamy. Be prepared and hydrated. You might even want to slip some sports goo in your pocket for the run. For more information on The Courthouse Celebration 5K, including costs, go to www.mstrackclub.com or call 601-956-1300.
Watermelon Classic (Baptist Health Systems Watermelon Classic) Saturday, July 4, 2009 Jackson, MS 5K Run/Walk start: 7:30 am plus Blue Cross &Blue Shield of Mississippi One-Mile Wellness Run and Tot Trot Rating: NNNNN The Watermelon Classic has certainly lived up to its name. The biggest 5K road race in the state seems to grow in attendance every year. With the Fourth of July falling on a Saturday this year expect even more participants. Yes, it’s very crowded but runners and walkers can feed off the energy level and the patriotic themes that are all around them. The course is moderately challenging but the adrenaline level will carry you through the tough spots. If you’re planning on doing this race get your entry in early to insure you get a tank top. Positives: Exciting, challenging and patriotic. A real runner’s race and a fun taste of the bigger events for the newer runner and walker. One of Mississippi’s best. Negatives: Some problems have occurred with timing over the years, but this is a minor issue that has probably been corrected. Make sure your place in the starting line is secured early and don’t get up front if you’re not a speedster! Oh, and it is hot.
You need a Getaway.
Escape to Renaissance.
Your shopping and dining destination. It's All Right Here. World Class shopping, dining and EntErtainmEnt.
Nothing Else Comes Close.
Ann Taylor Ann Taylor Loft Anthropologie Apple Aqua the Day Spa Banana Republic BankPlus Barnes and Noble Booksellers Barnette’s Salon Bath Junkie Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano Caché Cellular South Chico’s Ethan Allen Furniture Francesca’s Collection The Fresh Market Hallmark Hyatt Place Hotel I. O. Metro Furniture J. Crew J. Jill Judith Lee’s Justice for Girls Learning Express Toys Lucky Brand Jeans Maggie Moo’s Material Girls Merle Norman Migi’s Mint the Restaurant P. F. Chang’s China Bistro Pink Bombshell Portrait Innovations Red Square Men’s Clothing Company Ridgeland Visitors Center Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Solstice Southern Breeze Art Gallery Sleep Store by Miskelly Smoothie King Sweet Peppers Deli Talbots Vintage Wine Market White House | Black Market Williams-Sonoma I-55 at Old Agency Road, Ridgeland, Mississippi For leasing information, contact The Mattiace Company at 601.352.1818. See all our new retail stores online at www.renaissanceatcolonypark.com
speaking out
Fitness
?
MYTHS Debunked H
By Scot E. Long
ello Marathon Makeover Magazine readers! I know that many of you are turning into athletes and at least becoming partial to total fitness nuts like Mark and Robin Simpson and myself. That being said, I wanted to make sure some of the more pervasive myths concerning fitness did not involve our special group and those who are interested in joining Marathon Makeover. The fitness world involves both exercise and nutrition and like most sports many falsehoods are unfortunately believed. Following are a few common myths (and facts) you may have heard of: Slowly walking or jogging burns more fat calories than if done faster. Wrong! It is true that percentage-wise more fat is burned at rest than during exercise but the number of calories (and that’s what counts) is nowhere NEAR the same. Humans burn around 1.2 calories per minute at rest, however during exercise this increases drastically. So yes, as exercise intensity (usually judged by heart-rate for aerobic exercise) goes up less fat is burned PERCENTAGE-WISE. The fact is, though, that many, many more fat calories (total) are burned with higher intensity exercise than with lower. Would you rather have 1% of Bill Gates money or 50% of the average Mississippians’ money? Now you get the picture. Carbohydrates make you fat. Absolutely the biggest myth in the past century concerning fitness. You must, I repeat, MUST have carbohydrates to function. The brain and nervous system rely on carbohydrates for optimal functioning and athletes, especially marathon runners, must have a rather high (55% +) carbohydrate intake every day to both train and recover from training. Rice,
pasta, potatoes, breads, cereal and grains are but a few of the excellent sources you should be consuming on a daily basis. Too many calories of any kind (protein, fat, carbohydrates or alcohol) will cause weight gain. In science that’s called the “energy-equation.”
Runners don’t need to lift weights. That was a very common belief back in the 1970’s and 80’s and even persists today. At one time, humans thought the earth was flat and that running would wear out your heart. Weight lifting is vital to the performance of running AND to your health. Marathon Makeover participants receive a video that demonstrates weight-lifting exercises designed just for running and Marathon Makeover. If you would like to purchase a copy contact Marathon Makeover. If you are NOT weight lifting you are only hurting yourself. Running is bad on the knees. Baloney! Being lazy is what’s bad on the knees. Running is actually very good for the knees, heart, mind and overall health. Make sure that you have the proper shoes and that they are not too worn. Make sure that you are getting proper advice along with a good program and not just running and trying to “wing-it’ by yourself— after all, that’s what Marathon Makeover is all about. Everyone is different. Just because one person can run a 5-minute mile or log in 100 miles every week doesn’t mean you can. Seek advice from Mark, Robin or myself if any problems occur. If you have medical problems request a physician’s help. Eat and sleep well. There are many variables to follow but as Bruce Springsteen so famously sang in the 1970’s we humans are, “Born to Run”. - MM
Scot E. Long, MSS, CSCS is an Exercise Physiologist and a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Southern Mississippi as well as a member of the Kinesiology Faculty at Mississippi College. 6 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
EAT RIGHT
Marathon Makeover Inspires NEW Dish at The Auditorium Restaurant The New Shrimp and Grits at The Auditorium Restaurant.
Great food and music abounds at The Auditorium Restaurant in Ridgeland.
W
ho says that eating healthy can’t be delicious? That was the goal when Executive Chef Nathan Glenn and Sous Chef Nate Ballard of The Auditorium Restaurant first met with Mark and Robin Simpson of Marathon Makeover. What developed from that meeting was a delectable dish that not only satisfies but will also help diners reach their fitness goals. Marathon Makeover Pasta combines healthy eating along with appetizing southern cuisine. The Marathon Makeover dish is a whole wheat pasta primavera that includes fresh seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, artichokes, grape tomatoes and shitake mushrooms topped with feta cheese and fresh mint. For those wanting to add more protein to their diet, the Chefs suggest adding shrimp. Other protein options that pair well with the pasta include tuna and chicken.
Glenn says that he is proud to create this dish for Marathon Makeover. “It’s simply delicious food that turned out healthy.” Sous Chef Nate Ballard states that the lightness and freshness of the dish “tastes like finishing first.” For a dish that goes the distance in taste and beats out the competition for healthy entrees, be sure to stop by The Auditorium Restaurant and ask for the Marathon Makeover Pasta. This flavorful dish guarantees to give you the energy to cross the finish line. The Auditorium is located at 622 Duling Avenue; Jackson, MS 39216. For more information on The Auditorium and upcoming concerts and events go to www.theauditoriumrestaurant.com or call 601-982-0002. MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 7
portrait of a runner
Kossman’s By Jack Criss Magazine Consultant
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Crossings Battling obstacles, runner meets new challenges, faces life anew
C
arol Kossman was expecting something a little different from her first Marathon Makeover meeting.
“My friend, Sally Cohen, kept trying to talk me into doing this
thing called Marathon Makeover and I was very non-committal,” she says. “Finally, after so many attempts, she talked me into going to a kick-off meeting. Well,” she laughs, “I thought it was a ‘makeover’
with clothes and hair, that kind of thing. These people start getting up and talking about 26.2 miles and I remember looking at her and saying, “Oh, my gosh!’ I didn’t know what she had gotten me into!” MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 9
Since that fateful – and funny – 2005 day, Kossman is now a veteran of the runner’s circuit, having competed and completed four full marathons and several halves. In fact, at the time of this interview, Kossman had just that day returned from competing in the Country Music Half-Marathon in Nashville. Describing her pre-Marathon Makeover self as a typical “coach potato” (and a busy mother of four children), Kossman, 56, says the only exercise she used to give was reaching for another book to read. “I was not athletic growing up,” she says, “and just was never inclined to do any exercise. I really didn’t have time.” Some personal life changes presented themselves, however, and Kossman found herself in dire straits emotionally. “There were some issues going on in my family and it was an extremely difficult time,” Kossman says of the period right before attending the Marathon Makeover meeting. “Looking back, signing up for the program and doing all the training couldn’t have come at a better point. I was exercising six days a week and it kept me focused on a goal; it kept the extraneous problems at bay a little bit more.” Additionally, Kossman says, the camaraderie and friendships that developed during all that training was really the highpoint of her entire Marathon Makeover experience. “I think more emphasis is placed on the exercise and the marathon than the friendships you make while participating,” Kossman notes, “but, for me, the people I got to know is what I treasure most. These are amazing, diverse people I never would have gotten to know otherwise and yet here we all were, working together toward a goal, many of us dealing with life issues and supporting each other. What’s wonderful is that I’m still friends with most of that initial group of people I trained with,” she adds. Besides the emotional bonds she developed, Kossman – herself a doctor – points to the many physical benefits she received in her training, as well. “I have always battled weight gain, especially since my teen years,” Kossman admits, “and right before I joined Marathon Makeover I was putting on more pounds due to the stress I was going through.” She shed 17 pounds during her first marathon training without dieting and has not looked back. “People would see me and comment, ‘you look wonderful, what are you doing to yourself?’ My weight loss was that obvious,” she says. Kossman completed her first marathon, the Chicago Marathon in October of 2005, with her Marathon Makeover group in five hours and thirty-two minutes. “We were training in the summer months here in Central Mississippi so Chicago was a pleasant change!” she says. Her friends were impressed with her time – even the fact that she finished – due to a problem that had developed prior to the race. “I was battling muscle injuries in my legs as 10 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
a result of having to take Lipitor at the time for high cholesterol; when you’re on Lipitor and are exercising heavily, sometimes that type of injury can occur and it did to me. But I kept on training and running, or ‘swaying,’ as much as I could and it paid off,” Kossman says (Incidentally, Kossman was able to temporarily get off the Lipitor as a result of her running. She also tossed her high blood pressure meds for good). As many first-time marathoners do, Kossman was overcome with emotion crossing the finish line in Chicago in 2005. “The fact that you went that far is an amazement,” she says. “During your training you just incrementally increased your mileage, doing distances you’d never done before, completing another ‘first’ with each week. To have all that preparation lead up to a marathon is truly unbelievable.” Kossman went on to compete at the 2006 Chicago Marathon, also with the Marathon Makeover team, although due to other commitments she was not able to train as much with the group. “Still, I knew what to expect having already competed in one marathon,” she says. “And with the second one, I had a goal to shoot for. I so wanted to break 5:30 – just take two measly minutes off my time,” Kossman laughs. “Unfortunately, I had developed a stress fracture in my foot during training and, after 13 miles, I knew there was no way I could beat my original time.” She ended up finishing in 5:38 – eight minutes off of her goal. “Oh, I was mad!” she laughs. “Still, I’m thankful I even finished that second marathon. I cried after I crossed the finish line…it was such a relief.” Many will remember Kossman as the “balloon lady” at the inaugural 2008 Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon that Marathon Makeover put on in Ridgeland last June. It was Carol’s job to be the slowest pacer at the race so that runners and walkers knew what time that had to beat. This was an equally emotional period for her as she had, just months earlier, discovered she had breast cancer and had to undergo a partial mastectomy. “I competed in other races and events even during my radiation treatment,” Kossman says. “I knew I could never stop my running and exercising. My doctors told me I could continue as long as I didn’t hurt or feel bad, so I did. I was moving slower, though, and that’s one reason why I volunteered to be the four-hour balloon lady at the Renaissance Half. All of the participants were trying to stay ahead of me.” Currently, Kossman says she is in remission from her cancer. “My running has kept me going. Running is actually my form of entertainment now,” Kossman tells us. “I feel that it has also kept me alive. Mark and Robin Simpson (directors of Marathon Makeover) and my former teammates have been so supportive of me, as well. I’m thankful to be alive and running, and to have the friends I’ve made makes me feel more alive.”
Having signed up for the 2009 Renaissance Half this June, Kossman is also contemplating her fifth marathon, the October Marathon Makeover race in Ridgeland. “Despite my cancer, I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in,” she says. “I can say that the Marathon Makeover experience was the greatest thing I have ever done. Not only do you get the obvious physical benefits but also the emotional lifts you receive
are just amazing. You feel so much happier, more confident and better about yourself.” A brave woman and great competitor, Carol Kossman truly embodies the Marathon Makeover spirit. “I don’t know what I would have done in my life without the Marathon Makeover program, to be honest,” she says. MM MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 11
business spotlight
Ridgeland car dealership takes part in more ways than one By Natalie Criss Contributing Writer
Mark Simpson, Kathleen McNeil, Robert Mack, Donna Ransdell, Bob Aubrey
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W
hen salesman Robert Mack showed up for work at Patty Peck Honda of Ridgeland one day last spring, he had no idea that he’d be training for a marathon less than a year later. Now, not only is he—and three of his coworkers, including General Manager Bob Aubrey—training as a part of Marathon Makeover’s family of reformed couch potatoes, Patty Peck Honda is sponsoring this 40week wellness program and giving away a car after the in augural Marathon Makeover Marathon on October 17, 2009. “Mark [Simpson, founder of Marathon Makeover] and his wife became my customers that day, and at the time, we spoke briefly about Marathon Makeover,” Robert recalls. “He came back several weeks later to speak with Bob about Marathon Makeover sponsorship, but he had already sold me on the idea of participating.” Bob was equally enthusiastic. “This was the first time I had met Mark, and I was just really impressed with him and the way he has grown Marathon Makeover overall and his vision and ideas of where the program is going to go. By the time he left, I was convinced that I needed to get involved with Marathon Makeover in addition to the dealership’s sponsorship. He didn’t realize he was selling me on participating as well.” Patty Peck Honda of Ridgeland is giving away a 2009 Honda Fit to a Marathon Makeover participant after the marathon on October 17. Registrants for the Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon on June 13th will automatically be entered to win. Additionally, participants who register for the Marathon Makeover Marathon or Half Marathon will increase their chances of winning the Honda Fit with an extra entry. “Everyone knows what the Honda Accord is and the Honda Civic, but not many people know about the Honda Fit,” says Bob. Internet Manager Donna Ransdell is excited about the partnership as well and adds, “We feel good promoting a solid product like the Fit with such a great organization like Marathon Makeover.” In addition to the chance to win a car, Marathon
Makeover participants will receive a certificate after the October marathon certifying them in “Patty Peck Honda Fit” condition from Patty Peck Honda. A fit and healthy lifestyle is another benefit these colleagues are realizing. Robert Mack, Bob Aubrey, Donna Ransdell and Business Manager Kathleen McNeil have been training together as Patty Peck’s own Marathon Makeover team since January. “Kathleen and Donna had just started working out together,” Bob says. “Since they had a newfound interest in getting in shape, I thought they would be interested in being a part of our team. Mark Simpson had been Robert’s customer, so I thought that Robert might want to join in, too. That’s how we all got involved in participating in the wellness program. It’s been really good for all of us.” “I actually had a friend who trained with Marathon Makeover last year, which is one reason I was so interested in participating in the program this year,” explains Kathleen. “I had only walked,” says Donna, a novice runner. “But Kathleen and I were already working out together so I wanted to give it a try.” “These ladies have really been working hard and toning up well,” Robert adds, “but Bob has truly shown the most improvement.” “I’ve lost about 50 pounds since January. And I feel better, too,” Bob says. “I’m wearing clothes that I haven’t gotten to wear for the last four years or more!” Although the Patty Peck Marathon Makeover team may not always get to train together, they are all very supportive of one another. “Each of us probably handles training a little bit differently, especially since Donna and Kathleen were already exercising and getting a bit of cross training,” says Bob. “I’ve been pretty much following their schedule, though probably not religiously. I’ve missed a few runs due to colds or rainy days, but the training has gone really well for me.” “Well, we’ve been running and keeping moving,” Donna adds. “It’s been a challenge on Saturdays, because that is our busiest day at the dealership, but even if we can’t make it to one of the meetings, we still get out there and run earlier in the mornings.” “Yes, and on some Saturday mornings, we do get to run together,” Robert explains. “Last Saturday morning, Bob and I ran together and bumped into Kathleen.
“I’ve been getting up early to run on Saturdays, and I really enjoy it,” (Left to Right): Kathleen McNeil, Donna Ransdell, Kathleen says. Robert Mack, Bob Aubrey They all credit support from one another as well as Marathon Makeover’s meetings and phone calls from their coaches with keeping them motivated. “For me, I have previously—for about the last year— been trying to take better care of myself and pay more attention to my physical health,” Robert says. “But with Marathon Makeover, there is more accountability and support. I have people calling to ask me if I’ve done my runs. On our team, we check in with one another to see if everyone has been keeping up with their training. It makes it a little bit easier to keep it up. And I feel so much better.” “Yes, the meetings have been beneficial,” Bob agrees. “Attending them has educated and encouraged me—not just about the training but about life in general. I’ve only missed a few of the meetings because of work, Marathon Makeover that I have starting paying but I really wished I could have been there.” closer attention to my diet.” “The meetings are informative, too,” says But what happens after the training is over? Donna. “You know, it’s not just about exercising Are these lasting changes? but also about eating well too. When you’ve “Oh yes, absolutely,” Kathleen enthuses. “I’d done all this work, you don’t want to blow it be already made the decision to get in shape, and eating something that is bad for you.” training with Marathon Makeover has helped “Exactly,” confirms Robert. “Just last week, I me make it a habit.” was with my kids in the mall, so they wanted to “Yes, this is a lifestyle change for us,” eat in the food court. There I was with all this Donna agrees. “I probably would have been fast food trying to decide what is the healthiest participating in this even if Patty Peck Honda thing for me to eat. I ended up getting a grilled hadn’t sponsored it. But I’m so glad we did this chicken sandwich. It is definitely because of together.”
Patty Peck Honda of Ridgeland is giving one lucky Marathon Makeover participant a new 2009 Honda Fit basic model. With standard front, front side and side curtain airbags and 35 highway miles per gallon, the Fit is as fuel efficient as it is safe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently gave the 2009 Honda Fit a 5-Star frontal crash safety rating, the highest possible. The 2009 model has also been awarded Car and Driver’s BEST10 distinction for its “combination of thrift, practicality and fun-to-drive.” For more information about entering to win the 2009 Honda Fit from Patty Peck Honda, visit www. marathonmakeover. com.
“I agree,” echoes Robert. “I feel so much better now and I want to keep this up. And Mark sold me on this idea and made me want to participate before we even agreed to the sponsorship.” “I think any time you get involved in an exercise program, it has a very positive effect on your attitude and makes you just feel better about yourself,” Bob concludes. “And I think I see that affect in the three of them, also.” This Marathon Makeover team will be “Patty Peck Honda Fit” for years to come. - MM
MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 13
success stories
Todd Starnes Fox News Anchor Survives Heart Surgery, loses 300 pounds and runs a Marathon Todd Starnes on the air.
Interview by Paula K. Parker Reprinted courtesy of Lifeway
T
odd Starnes is a network news reporter and anchor for Fox News Radio. He’s used to seeing the good and the bad that happens to people and he’s experienced a lot of it himself. His first book, They Popped My Hood and Found Gravy on the Dipstick releasing with Pathway Press in March, shares his experiences. Written in the humorous, storytelling style of a true Southerner, this is Starnes’ personal story of his journey from a 300 pound guy with a bad heart to a 150 pound guy who ran the New York City Marathon. It opens with being diagnosed with a 14 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
near-fatal heart condition, being told his weight was killing him, losing both of his parents and ending with running the marathon – all within a three-year span. Paula K. Parker recently had the opportunity to talk to Todd about his book, his approach to weight loss, and the source of his strength to endure. Parker: In your book, you talk a lot about your heart surgery, your weight, your weight loss, your family, people you’ve met, and your faith. If you were asked to condense the message of your book to one or two sentences, what would it be? Starnes: I guess the message would be that you could go through a lot of bad stuff in your life
– and we all go through bad stuff – whether it might be health issues or losing a family member or friend; but you can go through all of that and come out on the other side of it with a smile on your face. You can come out of it knowing that life is going to be okay. For me, it was okay ultimately because of my faith in Christ. Parker: You mention a very practical weight loss approach in your book. What I like about it – and what you said about it – is that it allows for a lifestyle change without a sense of depravation, which appears to be why so many people fall off the weight loss wagon. Starnes: I think that is exactly why people fall off the wagon. I’ve seen people on diets walking
around with celery dangling from their lips and they look miserable. I don’t think that God calls us to be miserable. I think we’re called to take care of our temples – the body is the temple of Christ. I think that the way we present ourselves is a reflection of our relationship with Christ. I have great grandparents who’ve never even heard of the word ‘diet.’ They lived very long and healthy lives eating fried, greasy foods, because they had healthy exercise everyday where they worked out in the fields and they were very active. Parker: And they didn’t have video games and computers. Starnes: Exactly. That is something that is really important. A lot of young kids today don’t
know about going outside and having fun and creating your own entertainment, using their imagination. They’re stuck in front of the Xbox or they’re stuck in front of the Wii and they don’t get out there and exercise and play. That’s why I think we’re seeing a real epidemic obesity, not only of young people but adults as well. Parker: Have you had any feedback from nutritionists and weight loss experts on your suggestions for weight loss? Starnes: I have, and it’s been very positive. One thing I mentioned in the book was, why pay somebody else [to help you lose weight] when you have to do all the work? I surrounded myself with people who encouraged me and held me accountable. This has been a gradual thing. One of the first things I did was cut my portions in half; that was one of the quick things I did. Another was I stopped going to all you can eat buffets, places that provided opportunities to be tempted and stray from my diet plan. I was really deliberate about the places I went and the food I put into my mouth. Parker: Because you’re not a female, I’m going to be rude and ask, have you reached your goal weight yet? Starnes: No I haven’t and it’s interesting because losing as much weight as I did, you fall into this lull and this false sense of security. I look in the mirror and think, “Oh, I really like how I look right now,” but ultimately that is not where I need to be. I probably could have lost all this weight in a year’s time, but the threat would have been to put it back on a lot quicker. The way I’ve done it has been slow and deliber-
ate and I think it will ultimately stay off. Parker: Is there anything else you’d like to add? Starnes: You know, this is a tough time in our country. People are scared about their jobs and they don’t know what’s going to happen next. I talk about that in my book, that you can go through crisis times and come out okay. I did it through my faith in the Lord and also through a wonderful group of family and friends. I hope when folks read this book, they can connect and identify with some of the characters that I introduce to them. - MM Paula K. Parker covers entertainment for LifeWay.com from her home in Middle Tennessee. Todd Barnes book is available for purchase online and at bookstores everywhere, including Lifeway, Barnes and Noble, and Borders. Todd Starnes will be at The Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon and will be signing copies of his book. MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 15
cover story
Mississippi entrepreneurs transform lives, turning couch potatoes into marathon finishers By JACK CRISS Magazine Consultant
M
ark and Robin Simpson turned a challenge from a friend into a statewide health and wellness program that has exploded into the Mississippi athletic environment changing countless lives along the way. Marathon Makeover is a 40-week wellness program that takes “couch potatoes” off the couch and transforms them physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually through the process of training for a marathon. “It’s really about transforming one’s total wellness within a supportive community toward an audacious goal,” says Clinton-based Simpson. Mark and his wife, Robin, founded and now direct the organization. Why a marathon? “The marathon is a point of reference that, seemingly, all things in life are judged by,” Simpson answers. “You so often hear things referred to as being a ‘marathon’ – the connotation is that it’s the 16 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
ultimate definition of accomplishment or perseverance.” There are other marathon programs out there for individuals to choose: Why did the Simpsons start this one? And in Mississippi of all places? “I was talking to a marathon fanatic one day,” Simpson relates the story, “a guy who ran a marathon once a week. He was complaining about how no one in Mississippi wanted to ever train for and run a marathon. I told him that it’s not so much that no one here has the desire, it’s just that they wouldn’t know where to start. He laughed and said to me, ‘Simpson, I could have you ready to run a marathon in six months. I’ll even train you if you can find five other people to do it – but you won’t be able to.’ That was the gauntlet being thrown down,” Simpson says. And he picked it up. It took Mark and Robin a little bit longer than six months – nine, to be
Simple disciplines repeated over time lead to success!
exact – but they did, in fact, find some twenty-two people to train alongside them as they prepared for the Chicago Marathon in 2004. “Twenty of those folks finished the marathon with us,” Simpson says. “That gave us the impetus to do this type of training on a regular basis. There was such a groundswell of interest and support from that first group that my wife, Robin, and I decided to formalize Marathon Makeover.” (For the record, Mark completed the 2004 Chicago Marathon – his first race – in five hours and three minutes and Robin completed hers in six hours and thirteen minutes. They have completed nine marathons between the two of them.) Charging a nominal fee for their time, the Simpsons officially kicked off Marathon Makeover in 2005 taking 54 participants to Chicago that year. Marathon Makeover currently has over 460 people training for a marathon. “Robin and I have pulled together a team of coaches to help us,” Simpson says, further explaining the program. “The group outgrew just the two of us as far as providing the necessary training and tools. Last year we broke our local groups into area groups and now have a Clinton, Ridgeland and Brandon Reservoir team in the Metro Jackson area. We have a turnkey training system which is DVD based that all of our coaches use equipping them with the program’s consistency and sharing the insights we developed in the previous years.” Marathon Makeover has expanded further in 2009, becoming a franchise with new teams in Vicksburg, MS and Mobile, Alabama. For those individuals wanting to participate in Marathon Makeover, Simpson says it’s essentially “wide open.” With a doctor’s go ahead, the only requirement of the program is that participants must be over the age of 21 (unless 16 and over training with a parent) and in good health. “We’ve had several participants and finishers over the age of 70,” Simpson says, “and people from all other ages and backgrounds.” The Simpsons and their Marathon Makeover team were participants in the now-infamous 2007 Chicago Marathon in which one runner died and many others were hospitalized due to the extreme heat and fluid shortage. Did having a group of first-timers in the middle of the worst marathon disaster in the sport’s history cast a pall over the program? Quite the opposite, according to Simpson. “It was one of those defining moments, without a doubt,” he says. “It served to build our characters and resolves I see in retrospect. I think it highlighted the effectiveness of the Marathon Makeover program, honestly. We arrived with 135 participants and all of us felt ready. Yes, it was hot, but we trained in heat. Although the race was called off in midstream, the amazing thing is that we had over a dozen of our people finish and they ALL would have finished if it had been allowed to continue. We ended up saying that Mississippi was ready for Chicago but Chicago wasn’t ready for Mississippi!” Last year, Marathon Makeover put on its own road race at the Renaissance at Colony Park in Ridgeland, a half marathon. “Of course you have to hit the 13.1 mile mark in training for a full marathon,” Simpson says, “and with our previous groups we would always celebrate and acknowledge that momentous step with our members. It was suggested to me that a really special way of acknowledgement would be for us to have our very own half-marathon. Chuck Gautier, an alderman in Ridgeland, actually was the one who encouraged us to start this road race and open it up to the general public. So, we put the ball in motion, and with the help of the City, H. C. Bailey Company and the people at the Renaissance, we put on our first half marathon in June of 2008.” Over 830 people registered for the race resulting in one of the state’s largest races and a post-race survey undertaken by Marathon Makeover rated it a Nine out of Ten. Simpson says the 2009 half marathon will be a bigger and better one. “For this year’s half we’re bringing in a race director from Austin, Texas who was the logistics coordinator for that city’s half marathon as well as other races,” Simpson says. “His expertise and experience will add a whole new level to the Renaissance race this June.” In addition, Marathon Makeover will be putting on a full marathon in October to replace the group’s yearly trip to Chicago. The race will be open to the public. MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 17
Over 830 runners registerd for last year’s Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon in Ridgeland.
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“We did the math,” Simpson tells us, “and realized that, in 2008, by taking over 300 people to Chicago resulted in over $200,000 being dropped in that city’s economy. We thought: why not do that locally and invest in our home? Plus, it would afford our participants the opportunity for more of their family members and supporters to witness their accomplishment and cheer them on.” The inaugural Marathon Makeover Marathon, which will also include a half, will be held on October 17 in the Highland Colony area. Registration will open at the Renaissance at Colony Park Half-Marathon in June. Avid and enthusiastic promoters, Mark and Robin host their own Marathon Makeover talk show Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on SuperTalk FM Radio. “Additionally, one of our partners, Don Warren, is a professional videographer and is continually shooting video for promotional purposes and future products to compliment our program.
Top Left: ‘09 runners participate in their first Marathon Makeover 5K. Bottom Left: Robin prepares to hand out medals. Top Right: Mark congratulates a 5K finisher. “Marathon Makeover can drastically improve people’s lives,” Simpson says. “We’ve seen so many wonderful, inspiring stories of people who, perhaps going through life changes or difficulties, have participated with us, reached a challenging goal, and came through it transformed. That’s why we use as many media means available to us as we can to get the word out. We want people happy and motivated and we’ve seen that happen so many times.” Marathon Makeover is a true community in every sense of the word, Simpson says. Not only do people complete the program having accomplished a major athletic event, becoming happier and healthier in the process; they also establish ties and relations that will last lifetimes. “We stay in touch with so many of our participants and can’t tell you all of the great success stories we’ve heard. It is so gratifying to me and Robin,” Simpson says. “That was our purpose in creating Marathon Makeover and it moves us to see so many instances where we’ve accomplished our mission.” - MM
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Running for a cause...
Our group, at the first 5K run of 2008, all wore pink bandanas in support of Carol Kossman and the fight against Breast Cancer. The group raised $1000 for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.
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team vicksburg
Getting Vicksburg and Warren County into shape Kim Barnes coaches Marathon Makeover group, becomes first franchise owner and makes a difference Kim: Yes, it is hilly, so I can’t remove hill work from our program; but I do try to balance it out with some flat areas so that we reduce injury. I try to plot out the slow and steady inclines and do most of our running in the downtown Vicksburg area, even running up Washington Street, the great business district in the heart of town. It’s quite a workout, there’s no doubt! MM: Would you recommend buying a Marathon Makeover franchise to other interested people? How has it been for you?
Kim Barnes (right, orange shirt) running with her brother Stacy (left) in the 2007 Chicago Marathon.
MM: So you’re a coach and Marathon Makeover franchise owner, Kim? And what got you interested in doing both? Kim: Yes, I’m both. Mark Simpson offered franchise buy-ins and I was the first one to take advantage of the opportunity. It’s such a wonderful program. As a nurse, and being concerned about health, I wanted to bring Marathon Makeover into my community. I personally wanted to continue exercising and running but I also wanted to bring the program to Vicksburg and not have to drive to Jackson to participate. I saw how this program could assist me in helping my community establish a fitness program that was continual and life changing. MM: Had you been a Marathon Makeover participant yourself? Kim: Oh, yes. I participated for two years as a runner and then bought into the franchise in my third year. I went with Marathon Makeover to Chicago in 2007, when the race had to be called because of the heat, and didn’t finish. But I returned in 2008 to Chicago and finished the full marathon in just over five hours. MM: How has the reception been in Vicksburg? How many people do you have on your team? Kim: The reception has been very good. I’ve 22 - MAKEOVER MAGAZINE
had fifty participants sign up and have had great participation in our group runs, which we hold on Saturday mornings. Usually 65 to 75 percent of the group members come out every Saturday to do the long runs and that’s a high percentage. MM: When did your franchise/group actually get going? Kim: We had our kickoff meeting on January 10 and our first group meeting and one mile run was on January 17. Our group is participating in both the Renaissance Half Marathon in June and the full marathon on October 17 that Marathon Makeover is putting on in Ridgeland. MM: I realize that all of your team members are special and have to be unique and dedicated people. But is there one specific person who stands out in your mind for whatever reason? Kim: Well, Penny Frith, one of our participants, began with us in January and lost over 40 pounds over the course of her training! That has been such a tremendous life change for her and only goes to show that the Marathon Makeover program does work. MM: Vicksburg is a mighty hilly place! Are there any particular places where you and your group train?
Kim: Oh, I’d definitely recommend it, especially if you’ve been a past participant. It’s so gratifying because our program has a fit for anyone at any level. You can walk, you can run…it’s up to you. The knowledge I gained from Mark and Robin Simpson and what I learned personally while training prepared me for my own group and gave me even more incentive. I can identify with the runners and share my experiences and inspiration with my group now. I wanted to coach because I believe fully in the program and I wanted my community of Vicksburg and Warren County to share in it. MM: Any final thoughts to share with us? Kim: Well, running is a simple fitness activity for all fitness levels. It can be a time for contemplation or group social interaction – you can make it into whatever you want it to be, really. One of the beauties of running is that is doesn’t necessarily require any special athletic skills. It does, however, take discipline, determination, motivation and organization and that’s why I became a coach. Marathon Makeover is a life changing experience and can help people on some many levels, whether for fitness, social, stress reduction or other personal goals. Everyone has a unique “why” but, once you finish the marathon, it’s the journey with your group of Marathon Makeover friends that brings it all home. For more information on becoming a Marathon Makeover franchise owner or coach contact Mark or Robin Simpson at www.marathonmakeover. com.
team vicksburg
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runners turn
The Art of the Run By Jack Criss Consultant & Runner
O
ne important aspect of this magazine, and of the great program Mark and Robin Simpson started, is what it encourages and promotes: exercise, specifically running. Unlike any other sport, running is surely the most personal and private. Even amongst other runners, it is YOUR pace, YOUR goal and YOUR finishing time. There are no X’s and O’s with running: there is you, your spirit and determination and your path and goal. While Marathon Makeover promotes a sense of team spirit – and surely encouragement, friendship and camaraderie are critical components of marathon training – running remains an individualistic endeavor. Ask any runner their story and then be prepared to hear – they will have one. All of us as individuals bring with us a myriad of stories to the finish line. I certainly did. As a high school cross-country runner, I had participated in the sport for a few years but, as adulthood approached, gave up exercise entirely. Like so many others, I spent years building a career and not giving fitness much time. As the twenties faded and the thirties came to be, however, I slowly began running (jogging!) again. It was not until a doctor’s visit for a physical six months prior to my fortieth birthday, though, that I adopted a lifestyle that I still maintain today four years later. Having gained unnecessary pounds and with ominous cholesterol levels, I took to the streets to train for my first marathon. In the process, I lost 30 pounds and dropped over 40 points on my cholesterol readings. So while I have not participated with the Marathon Makeover group specifically, I can surely identify with the changes the runners experience. And all of those experiences are for the better. I would bet Mark and Robin have never heard any of their team members say they regretted their decision to run a marathon. When I run today, I sometimes get depressed that my times never seem to improve much, that I’m not keeping up with some of my running partners, that those I USED to outrun are now burning up the road. But then I shake it off and remember what running is really about: my health and well being. My contentment. My goals and dreams. It’s easy to get caught up in the competitive spirit especially when all of those young, good-looking bodies go whizzing by. Just look down at your feet and then up at the sky, though, and remember that the race is really already won because you’re out there doing it in the first place. My greatest pleasure as a runner now is not so much the race day or the double-digit workout. I find myself feeling more enjoyment as I slowly go around the neighborhood with my 17 yearold, Katie, on her bike alongside me. We laugh at the Canadian geese so in abundance around the Reservoir, smell the cookout aromas, point at the various birds that zip by us and dodge the dogs that sometimes want to join us! My head seems to clear as my arteries open and I remember why I love this sport so much. Mark and Robin Simpson have introduced hundreds of people to the sprit of the run, the competition and the joy of accomplishment through Marathon Makeover. I applaud them for that. What they may not know, though, is they’ve probably produced a lot of lifetime runners as well, folks who continue to plod along like me. We want to hear from you and learn about your experiences! Submit a column to Marathon Makeover by emailing mark@marathonmakeover.com.
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2007 chicago marathon
Scotty Rogers and Hugh Thompson share a handshake befoer heading out to the ‘07 Chicago Marathon.
Marathon Makeover participants head out to the starting line.
Donna BRown and Fran Dickie just after the start.
Shelley Fitzpatrick and Cheryl Jones during the marathon.
Marathon Makeover participants at mile 3 of marathon.
Dorothy Thompson stops to pose for the camera at mile 13.
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2008 chicago marathon
Marathon Makeover in Chicago before race start.
Chuck Gautier
Richelle Huggins, George Anna Griffin and Sheila Gold
David Lyle
Kim Lyle and Celeste Williamson finishing.
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2008 rennaisance at colony park half marathon
Curb Crew cheers runners
Runners on Old Agency Road
Water stop at Bridgewater was one of nine water stops.
Oranges!
Cellular South Water Stop
Michael Chandler receives a much earned hug from wife, Cindy.
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2009 mississippi blues marathon
Kelvin Jones, Kim Brewer and Mark Simpson before the race.
Betty Davis, Wendy Hardwick, Martin Harrison, and Eric Omerza of Team Clinton.
Lisa Davis of Raymond
Jeff Vargas
Heather Rowland and Bryan Chase
Kim and Carey McCoy, ‘08 MM Coaches, finish strong. MAKEOVER MAGAZINE - 29
2009 marathon makeover 5k
Stretching before the Marathon Makeover 5K
Starting Line of the Marathon Makeover 5K
Michael Perry
Jana Ethridge
Marathon Makeover 5K
Cheering on 5Kers
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We would like to thank all of our sponsors who helped with the success of the
2009 Renaissance at Colony Park Half Marathon
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