Michigan Runner, November / December 2011 by Great Lakes Sports Publications, Inc.

November / December 2011 Publisher and Chief Executive Officer

Art McCafferty artmccaf@glsp.com Editor

Scott Sullivan scott@glsp.com

Associate Publisher

Jennie McCafferty jennie@glsp.com Editors Emeritus

Dr. Edward H. Kozloff Grant Lofdahl Sheryl Lozicki Richard Magin Ron Marinucci Riley McLincha Charles D. McEwen Gary Morgan Jim Neff Rachael Steil Tamara Steil Nick Stanko Anthony Targan Cregg Weinmann Composer

Dave Foley Mike Duff

Jamie Fallon

Senior Photographer

Carter Sherline Columnists

Paul Aufdemberge Desiree Davila Ian Forsyth Tom Henderson Scott Hubbard Daniel G. Kelsey Herb Lindsay Laurel Park Robin Sarris Hallop

Chief Financial Officer

Cheryl Clark

Contributors

Tracey Cohen Cynthia Cook Peter Derby Heather Dyc Larry Eder Gale Fisher Michael Heberling Jeff Hollobaugh Dean Johnson Tyrin Johnson Bill Kahn William Kalmar

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Michigan Runner © is published six times yearly for $17.00 per year by Great Lakes Sports Publications, Inc., 4007 Carpenter Rd., #366, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. Third Class Postage paid at Dearborn, MI and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send Address changes to Michigan Runner,4007 Carpenter Rd., #366, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. All contents of this publication are copyrighted all rights reserved. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. All unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, and illustrations will not be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope, bearing sufficient postage; publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited materials. The views and opinions of the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect endorsement and/or views of the Michigan Runner. Address all editorial correspondence, subscriptions, and race information to: Michigan Runner, 4007 Carpenter Rd., #366, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, (734) 507-0241, FAX (734) 434-4765, info@glsp.com, www.glsp.com. Subscription rates: Continental U.S. $17.00 per year: Payable in U.S. funds. Single issue $3.00, back issues $5.00. Change of address: Send your magazine label and your new address to Michigan Runner, 4007 Carpenter Rd., #366, Ypsilanti, MI 48197.

Calendar November - December 2011 Featured Future Events

p. 40 p. 43

Features and Departments Editor’s Notes: The Dollar Squirrel By Scott Sullivan For Verran, Physical Therapy is Next Step By Ron Marinucci Running Shorts with Scott Hubbard Lessons, More Emerge in First College Meet By Rachael Steil Beyond the Chip: Alma Mater By Laurel Park It’s Always Something By Dean Johnson Reviews: Trail Shoes By Cregg Weinmann Running with Tom Henderson

Photo / Video

John Brabbs Judith Cutler Pat Davies Brandon Degrouchy Peter Draugalis Anthony Hanks Greg Sadler Victah Sailer Matt Yacoub

Vol. 33, No. 5

p. 9 p. 10 p. 12 p. 16 p. 18 p. 23 p. 26 p. 44

At the Races Tahqua Trails Tough, Gorgeous Beyond Belief By Tom Henderson Crowds Soar at Park2Park on Perfect Day By Scott Sullivan Kogo Defends Title, But Nderebas Still Great By Anthony Targan Crim is Treasured Rite Each Year By Bill Kalmer Recovery Palooza: Small Package, Big Rewards By Tamara Steil Romanowski, John Lead Somerset Stampede By Charles Douglas McEwen Onsted Ringers Keep Rolling at Dances with Dirt By Charles Douglas McEwen Mt. Baldhead Challenge Soars Again By Scott Sullivan Goodrich Remembers Departed Star By Anthony Targan Record Crowds, Sunny Skies Highligh Brooksie Way By Ron Marinucci Sites, Sounds from Brooksie Way By Bill Kalmer Wildlife Marathon Photos by Carter Sherline Heat, Humidity Take Toll at Milford Labor Day Events By Charles Douglas McEwen Run for Hills Reverses Courses, Steams Ahead By Ron Marinucci Strong Winds Buffet, Don’t Break Runners at Grosse Pointe Run By C. D. McEwen Red October Run Sets Turnout, Volume Marks By C. D. McEwen Sylvania Triathlon / Duathlon Photos by Carter Sherline 2,000 Mitchell’s Runners Fight Duchenne MD By Scott Sullivan Peters Leads 2,750+ Running Wild for Zoo By Charles Douglas McEwen Fall Fest Frolickers Find Ways Fine By C. D. McEwen Witch’s Hat Celebrates 20 Years By C. D. McEwen Red Carpet Runners Dress for (and Find) Success By Heather Dyc Playmakers Autumn Classic Photos by Carter Sherline Drink Deep of Harvest Stompede Wines, Views By Tom Henderson Run Woodstock Photos by Carter Sherline Melon Run Photos by Carter Sherline Rivamonte, Robert Roar to Wins in T-Rex Tri By C. D. McEwen St. Mary Mercy Hospital 5K Run/Walk for Cancer Photos by Carter Sherline Heart of Detroit Photos by Carter Sherline Running the Rails Photos by Carter Sherline Hensley Remembered, Run Thru Hell Returns By Tracey Cohen

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Cover: Joanna Hathaway, 39, of Coldwater, grabs a drink at the Park2Park Half Marathon in Holland. Joanna placed third in her 35-39 age group in 1:38:04. Photo by Scott Sullivan.

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Michigan Runner Congratulates Greg Meyer

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Editor’s Notes

The Dollar Squirrel By Scott Sullivan

I © Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

’m in awe of the marketer who dreamed up the Dollar Squirrel. Want to make a multi-billion-dollar endeavor cuddly? Get a mascot. The 2009 track world championships in Berlin had “Berlino,” an anthropomorphic teddy; the 2011 worlds in Daegu had “Sarbi,” a rainbow-haired doglike something.

one word for you, Benjie: plastic,” he’ll sadly say. Woe be to marketers who miss out on the Mastercard Muskrat, Visa Vole and Discover Dormouse.

out the Hewlett-Packard Hamster, Walmart Wombat and GE Gerbil. Wall Street in no time will be inhabited by human-size rodents gnawing, hoarding and reproducing rapidly.

Fortune 500 firms, courting investors who have grown up with money mascots, will trot

The same as it is today.

- MR -

Carrollton Marathon & Half-Marathon

So it stood to reason a Fennville bank would roll out a warm, fuzzy rodent for cold, hard cash. Picture donning your costume and clocking in at the branch as Mom enters with little Johnny. “Hug the Dollar Squirrel, Johnny. Sit on his lap,” she orders. As the lad, hands sticky from his sucker, grabs your faux fur, you teach him that if he squirrels away enough dollars, someday he may found Nike and be a track mogul. I read about the Dollar Squirrel in the weekly newspaper that I edit, so I know it’s true. He appeared at a Fennville museum to teach kids savings tips. You could quiz little Kyle afterwards about yield on the 10-year T-note. Trends used to start in New York, Paris and Los Angeles. Now it’s Fennville. If the Dollar Squirrel can make it there, what’s next? Other banks, struggling to win hearts since taxpayers covered their assets rolling out TARP, will follow. Look for the Chase Chipmunk, Goldman Sachs Gopher and Bear Stearns Teddy. The Dollar Squirrel will lead them. “Don’t run out on wires peddling subprime loans,” he will teach. “With legal acrobatics you can rob the bird feeder.” Remember going to discount stores and riding the Penny Pony? Times change. Soon the Dollar Squirrel will become passé. “I have

Sunday, November 6, 2011 8 AM Certified course • Carrollton, Michigan (near Zilwaukee Bridge)

Sponsored by Carrollton Education Foundation Support from: • The Saginaw News • NBC 25 • Anguiano-Moreno Agency Farm Bureau Insurance Phone: (989) 399-8860 Contact: Craig Douglas

Events: • Marathon • Half Marathon • 6 person relay

All events, on-line registration: www.marathonguide.com

Artwork by Carrollton High School Student Blake Mossner michiganrunner.net

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

By Ron Marinucci

lint Verran the athlete has been well known in running circles for almost two decades. The longtime Hansons-Brooks Project member has been a top-10 finisher at the Boston Marathon, twice among the top three at the U.S. marathon championships and has personal bests of 1:04:00 for the half marathon and 2:14:12 for the marathon.

the usual suspects: plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis, iliotibial band friction syndrome and piriformis pain. He also performs post-surgery rehabilitation.

Less known is Verran the physical therapist, although he is building a reputation in that field too.

After finishing the runner-up at the 2008 Detroit Free Press Marathon, “I felt a pain in my hip,” he remembered. “I’d never stumbled upon this injury.”

When Verran enrolled at Eastern Michigan University in 1993, he had his eye on more than the many Mid-American Conference championships he would win in track and cross country. He planned to earn a degree in accounting, more specifically in sports medicine finance. Those plans changed quickly. “During my freshman year,” he remembered, “I was sitting in my second economics class and realized how bored I was by it. I couldn’t take the idea of another semester in business school. “I began looking at career options,” he said. “I wanted one that would be a fit for my interests, not just a means to a paycheck.” Verran’s research led him to physical therapy. A week after graduating from EMU with a Bachelor of Science in sports medicine and exercise science, he enrolled in the Wayne State University physical therapy training program. Three years later, he earned his Masters degree and was off to work — at first for others before setting off to be his own boss. Verran offers typical treatments such as active release techniques and functional soft-tissue mobilization/massage. “Sometimes my hands are sore from the work,” he stated. He also does exercise prescription, EPAT/Shockwave therapy, digital computer gait analysis and even coaching. Perhaps his favorite piece of technology is the AlterG, “an amazing tool,” he said. “It’s the world’s most expensive treadmill.” 10

FAI has only recently been accepted and identified by the medical establishment, perhaps gaining a more credibility after New York Yankee superstar Alex Rodriguez was diagnosed with the ailment.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Operating out of his clinic, Clint Verran Sports Medicine in Lake Orion, where he went to high school and won a state cross country title in 1993, Verran treats athletes with a variety of diagnostic tools, technology and methods. He has been at it for almost 11 years.

One of the many injuries he’s successfully treated was personal: a case of femoral acetabular impingement he himself experienced.

“I exhausted the research sources on the Internet,” Verran remembered. “I talked to others. Then, while watching YouTube surgeries, I found one I wanted. It took me about nine months.” He found a doctor to perform the arthroscopic procedure and recovery has been complete.

Clint Verran competes at the 2011 Crim 10 Mile. The AlterG, an anti-gravity device developed at NASA, permits running even with injuries to weight-bearing parts of the body. “It allows running with stress fractures by changing somebody’s body weight,” said Verran. The machine can lessen one’s body weight to 20 percent of actual weight and increase that by 1-percent increments. Verran might find an injured athlete who can run without pain on the AlterG at, say, 50 percent of her body weight. As the injury heals, he can gradually increase the percentage of the weight-bearing load. “It keeps the body moving, not missing any workouts,” he said, “which often helps the psychological part of recovery. “It’s the only AlterG in Oakland, Macomb and Wayne counties, as far as I know. I’ve invested a lot in technology,” he said. Among runners’ ailments Verran treats are

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“Since I found out about FAI, I’ve seen it in about two dozen of my clients,” said Verran. “Before my own experience, I wasn’t picking up on it in my customers. Now, if they walk into my office with FAI, I’m all over it.” Both Verran and his clients have had “a high satisfaction rate” with FAI recovery. “It’s still ignored by many doctors and physical therapy schools,” he said. With gait analyses, he evaluates runners’ forms by using new Dartfish software. “I had to develop this skill on my own,” he recalled. “There’s not a lot out there.” He uses videotape and a digital hard drive, among other tools. “They do it in other sports,” he said. “Why not running?” But Verran is always cognizant of what he calls the human factor. “Is the gait changeable?” he asks. “There are some things we can change — how we carry the body, control of the stride length, frequency of strides. But other things, such as how the bones line up, aren’t as changeable.” Verran and associate Jackie Rzpecki (2010 Michigan Runner Female Runner of the Year) also offer coaching services. “I’m the ‘big pic-

Tahqua Trail Run, Paradise

Tahqua Trails Tough, Gorgeous Beyond Belief By Tom Henderson PARADISE 8/13/11) — An aptly-named town, no, to serve as host community for the bit of running paradise that is the Tahqua Trail Run. It’s two runs, actually, a 25K and a 10K, both of which share an incredibly splendid 6.2 miles from the Lower Tahquamenon Falls to the Upper Falls. It’s just a ridiculous cool, tough, wild, weird stretch of running. Single track through high wildflowers next to the rippling Tahquamenon River, interspersed with steep ups and downs on the cliff face that lines the river when the single track halts for one reason or another. Tough? Ryan Book, 39, of Boyne Falls led the field of 80 in the 10K in a course record of 49:29. No that “four” isn’t a typo. A hair under 50 minutes was a course record.

stuff. I actually wish it was longer,” he told the Sault Evening News. “I was told it will make you feel alive until you’re done, and then it will make you die,” said Linda Walsh, 44, of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, the women’s 25K winner in 2:17:57. And? “It was exactly as I expected.” Lorri Walch, 53, of Portage won the women’s 10K in 59:24. The men’s masters winners were Michael Hebner, 48, in 10K in 57:21, and Darrin Clark, 40, of Grand Rapids in the 25K in 2:04:57. This was one of those races where everyone really was a winner. The courses have to be run to be believed. Roots, rocks, preposterous ascents and descents, spectacular views (don’t do more than glance or down you go) and a great finish line.

A course record was set in the 25K, too, which drew a field of about 120. Tyler Noble, 20, a runner at Saginaw Valley State University, took nearly 12 minutes off the old standard with his 1:40:02. Surprisingly, it was his first trail race. Uh, Tyler, they’re not all so beautiful, nor so tough.

You pop out of the woods, there’s a parking lot, there’s the finish line and there’s the blueberry muffins and cherry juice to help with your recovery. And, for a post-race bit of stretching out the muscles, you’re just a short walk down a blacktop path to the grand Upper Falls.

Or maybe not so tough if you’re Tyler. “I wasn’t too concerned about time. I just wanted to enjoy it. It was really fun. I like the longer

And along the way to the falls? Ripe raspberries waiting to be plucked, a nice touch for a perfect morning.

ture’ guy,” he noted. “Jackie does most of the day-to-day nuts and bolts. She has a lot of years of experience. She does the daily training plans.”

“I don’t have anybody to answer to other than myself when I need to take a week off to participate in something like the Olympic Trials.

They now coach about 20 runners, whose levels vary. There are those aiming for their first 5K and Olympic Trials qualifiers. Some are returning from injuries and want to start running again. The coaching varies from runner to runner. “Some just want us to hand over their training plans. Others want day-to-day work with Jackie,” Verran said. He also does diagnostic work, “unusual for a physical therapist,” he said. “Having dealt with runners for a long time, I have a unique knowledge base in picking these things out.” Having his own business has the great perk of “a very flexible schedule,” Verran said.

All four winners were first-time visitors to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, which was music to the ears of park manager Craig Krepps. “Events like this are the types of things we need to do,” he said. “If we don’t do that, what are we doing here?” And music to Jeff Crumbaugh’s ears. Jeff started putting on his crazy series of trail runs in Wisconsin and Michigan more than a decade ago as a way to get more runners to see the kinds of terrain he’d fallen in love with as an avid trail runner. This was the fifth Tahqua and it brought trail aficionados from eight states, including Colorado, California and Georgia. For those who only picture one thing when they hear the word “Michigan” — a rust belt/Detroit — well, they’ve got a different image, now. - MR -

“I’m still able to compete at an international level in the marathon and be a full-time physical therapist,” he said. Verran is thrilled with the success of the clinic so far. Most of his patients come from word-of-mouth referrals. Referrals from doctors “are dwindling, since they are getting more and more physical therapy (facilities) in their offices.” Runners’ injuries are personal to Verran. “Your running is important to us,” he emphasized. He knows from experience how runners feel when they’re not running. “I want to grow as a physical therapist,” he said. “I’m better now than I was ten years ago. And I hope to be better ten years from now.” - MR michiganrunner.net

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Running Shorts with Scott Hubbard building, awaiting construction of the new school along the Huron River. During my junior year, the school day was divided with AAP students attending from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Huron students from 1 to 6 p.m.. Since I ran cross-country and track, which met before school for practice, I couldn’t take the bus. So I walked the two miles to school. It was uphill from my home near the Huron River to AAP and took about 30 minutes to make the trek. I’d usually get a ride home.

Scott Hubbard Trivia: The international governing body for track and field, race walking, mountain running, ultrarunning and road racing is the IAAF. What do the initials stand for?

Correction. I had the wrong answer for half of my last trivia question in the September/October issue. Anne Marie Letko was the last American woman to win the Crim 10-mile in 1994, not Lynn Jennings in ‘93. I regret the error. HOF. Congratulations to Greg Meyer for getting inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame Sept. 15 in Novi. Greg becomes the first distance runner in the hall. Meyer was an all-state runner at Grand Rapids West Catholic High School and allAmerican at the University of Michigan in the mid-‘70s. He went on to a stellar road racing career including a couple American records (among them the still-standing 10-mile record of 46:13) and a 2:09 win in the ‘83 Boston Marathon. In news reports Greg expressed how humbling it felt to be inducted and was quick to thank supporters, including his parents and UM coach Ron Warhurst. He remains active mentoring prep runners in the Grand Rapids area and is elite coordinator for the Fifth Third River Bank and Crim races.

Hoofing It. I don’t remember if I’d heard the old refrain, “I used to walk two miles to school, uphill both ways,” before or during my high school days, but if I had it didn’t convey personal hardship. Here’s why: I did walk two miles to high school in my junior and senior years. When I was in 10th and 11th grades, Ann Arbor Huron was housed in the AA Pioneer 12

During my senior year Huron was open, but for some reason buses didn’t run near my home, so I walked downriver the two miles to school. Like before, I’d usually get a ride home. Even in winter the walk didn’t seem like a big deal — it was simply something that had to be done. I was lucky to have sidewalks and bike paths to use the whole way to each school. I was wondering recently if any Michigan school kids walk as many as one or two miles to school. I’m guessing it’s rare since I never hear from them and bus routes seem to gather up even the farthest-flung students these days. I was a “victim” of scheduling and bus routes, but it wasn’t so bad. I’ve concluded the walks didn’t hurt my running and only good came from them. Since high school days, I probably haven’t walked two miles nonstop more than 25 times in 40-plus years.

Overwear. Following work at the Mackinac Island 8-mile race each September, I’ve made wide swings through the Upper Peninsula in recent years. The UP is a vast stretch of land and water from east to west, south to north. My favorite destination is Copper Harbor, “at the end of the road” on top of the Keweenaw Peninsula. In a sense it is in the Upper Upper Peninsula, because the Portage River bisects Houghton County from east to west, connecting to Lake Superior on each end. The City of Houghton and Michigan Tech University sit on the south side of the river and are connected by the only bridge spanning the river to Hancock on the north side. Copper Harbor is 50 miles north of Hancock. Since 2005 I’ve cycled a 37-plus-mile loop that starts by hugging Lake Superior to Eagle Harbor from Copper Harbor, a deceptively difficult route along M-26. Then I head south and up, up to U.S. 41. From there I head east back to my start. The last 10 miles are through the aptly named “Tunnel of Trees,” a shaded, heavilyforested, winding and rolling road. It passes beatific Lake Medora before peaking at the

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Depression era-built Keweenaw Mountain Lodge. then the road tumbles 1.4 miles back into Copper Harbor. This year I hit 41 mph in a tuck position down the slope, grateful no wildlife crossed my path. Before my ride this year, really cold weather had me scrambling for something to cover my hands and ears. Socks would do for my hands (over cycling gloves), but what I settled on for my ears will make you laugh. I did. After about 15 miles, I was pleased with how the improvised apparel worked and mostly forgot what was covering my head. Mostly. I took the socks off in the last 15 miles but kept my coat zipped up and ear warmer on. There isn’t much traffic that far north and even less after Labor Day. I wondered if drivers could tell what I had under my helmet and decided I didn’t care. The arrangement worked; my ears weren’t frozen. After dismounting when done, I took my off helmet, quickly snatched the clean underwear from my head and tossed it in the car — after looking around to see if anyone was watching. Clean underwear earmuffs: I’ll bet McGyver couldn’t top that!

Law on the Run. En route to Copper Harbor Sept. 12, I passed the Michigan Law Enforcement Torch Run near Calumet for at least the fourth year in a row. Participants were headed south, me north. The event involves officers taking part in a nonstop, 5-day relay run, 750 miles, from Copper Harbor to near near Detroit. Begun in the mid-1980s, the relay is held to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. Runners are led by a local county sheriff’s car and trailed by a large motor home with a banner on its side touting the relay. Passing back into the Lower Peninsula Sept. 14, I overtook the Torch Run entourage just north of Cheboygan on U.S. 23/Old 27. After pizza at Vivio’s in Indian River, I stopped in Wolverine for provisions before heading to my campground at Weber Lake, seven miles west. Exiting the store, one of the Torch Run motor homes circled the block and parked. I went over and chatted up the occupants about where I’d seen them and asked questions about the run. They planned to stay on Old 27 to Clare, then follow Mission Road to Mt Pleasant, home of the Michigan Special Olympics, arriving Sept. 15. From there, south to Lansing, then Grand River Road to M-59 and east toward Detroit for a Friday finish. It’s a daunting, well-organized, very impressive effort on behalf of all involved, partic-

ularly the officers pounding the pavement from one end of our Great Lake State to the other. Many newspapers along the route feature pictures and stories in their next editions. Those 4:30 a.m. relay legs and climbs up many of the UP big hills can be challenging, but the goal of awareness for S.O. is enough to keep spirits up and ease the ‘burden.”

Park2Park, Holland

Crowds Soar at Park2Park on Perfect Day By Scott Sullivan

Cycling in hot weather isn’t as rough as running in it. I create my own cooling breeze and carry fluids. I can account for dealing with the weather, but was surprised how good I felt, how eager I was to get out until I got to thinking about the restorative powers of time off.

Photo by Scott Sullivan

That July was the hottest of its kind ever. It took me a week to feel comfortable again, with residual aches in my right arm and hand. After that, despite the heat, the miles came easily, piling up at a steadily-increasing rate.

Photo by Scott Sullivan

Unintended Healing. I wasn’t going to mention a race bike crash I had the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend except that it had a happy spinoff outcome, not entirely unexpected. I broke my collar bone badly and cracked my helmet in the crash, forcing me to miss four weeks. Naturally I was restless to get going again, but worried how my break might hamper a return. Turns out the bone had mended nicely into a small knot — and I was good to go!

At the end of July through mid-August I had a series of solid, pleasing group training rides and bike tours. No doubt the month of forced down time had a recuperative, refreshing effect.

Pictured here are winner Matt Smith and friend/runner-up Keith Shoemaker just before 8 miles.

Eventual women’s champ Mandi Zemba takes water.

HOLLAND (9/24/11) — Matt Smith and Mandi Zemba put it in drive to win Park2Park.

Smith finished in 1:13:33, Shoemaker 1:13:55. “His goal was 1:14. That’s a PR for him by a minute and a half,” Smith said.

Over the years I’ve read of others returning from injury as good or better than ever, claiming the time off had allowed them to recover fully. While I don’t advocate a bike crash or bad injury requiring weeks off, I’m certainly appreciative of the acquired benefits.

The two former college standouts — Zemba from nearby Grand Valley State and Smith from faraway Northern Arizona — topped a record field of 645 finishers in this seventh annual half marathon, which derives its name from:

Zemba, 28 — an eight-time Division 2 national champion for Grand Valley and 2008 Michigan Runner magazine women’s runner of the year — finished fourth overall and first woman in 1:20:51. Next was Alicia Sherwood, 24, of Holland in 1:23:49.

Truth is, I’d rather not have missed four weeks, but if I had to, this was a welcome upshot. While we’re here, I do advocate wearing a helmet if you ride.

• The lakes Macatawa and Michigan parks beside and through which it runs.

Pacing the masters were Joe Reitz, 48, of Schoolcraft in 1:21:40, and Debbie Lenters, 43, of Holland in 1:31:26.

Thirty. This installment wraps up 30 years writing this column for MR. My mind drifts into a black hole considering another 30 years — until the end of 2041. The writing exercise has been fun. It’s been a long run with a few good years left.

Answer: International Association of Athletics Federation. Outside the U.S., the sport is often referred to as “athletics.” Also, it used to be known as the International Amateur Athletic Federation. After prize money was made legal, the term “amateur” was dropped in 2001. - MR -

• Park Township, where it starts and finishes. • The fact that even though total entries, including a 5K, rose from last year’s record 890 to 1,165 on a perfect fall running morning, sponsors had shuttles prepared so all found a place to park. Smith, 37, winner for the third straight year, was as pleased with the efforts of runnerup Keith Shoemaker, 34, as his own. The Team Twitch friends and training partners, both of Holland, gapped the field early, ran together and continued to pull away. “Keith wanted to run sub-5:40-minute miles,” Smith said. “I paced him for eight or nine miles, then surged some to sharpen for my next marathon.” michiganrunner.net

Why has Park2Park grown exponentially in so few years? “It’s become a big race, but the route is still beautiful and peaceful,” Smith said. “The course is flat and fast, with just a few rollers on Lakeshore Drive (between miles nine and 11). “The timing for a race this length is perfect if you plan an October marathon. Runners know and appreciate when an event is wellrun,” he said. Nathan Fujioka, 27, of Grand Rapids repeated as 5K champion in 15:59. Amy Bryant, 31, of Plymouth paced the women’s 5K in 21:56. For complete results, visit http://www.classicrace.com. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Crim Festival of Races, Flint

By Anthony Targan

Now in its 35th running, the Crim Festival of Races (“The Crim” for short) keeps runners coming back year after year, including its 79year-old patriarch. This year Crim ran the 10mile race that bears his name in 1:47:39, taking third in the men’s 75-79 age group. (He planned to run his first marathon this fall in Grand Rapids at age 80.) The 10-mile race is The Crim’s premier event, traditionally won by Kenyan-born elite runners, but part of the race’s charm is that it continues to honor those who have run it at least 30 times by giving them a slight head start. Daniel Michels, running his 33rd Crim, crossed the finish line reciting his mantra, “Working hard, running slow.” He keeps coming back each year because it’s a “great day for Flint.” The hilly 10-mile course is challenging, which is part of the attraction. It’s inconceivable to most of the 9,000-plus finishers that the winners will cross the finish line before most runners reach the infamous Bradley Hills at the halfway mark.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Last year’s winner, Julius Kogo, defended his title by breaking the tape in 47:15, easily outpacing runners-up Samuel Nderaba (47:39) and Linus Chumba (47:46). Boaz Cheboiwo

Dot McMahan 14

(Kenyan-born, but now residing in Ypsilanti) finished a disappointing eighth in 49:21, but won a nice consolation prize as the top Michigan runner, taking home a one-year lease on a new Buick Regal.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

FLINT (8/27/11) -- In 1977, former House speaker Bobby Crim created the Crim Road Race to raise money for the Michigan Special Olympics. Crim hoped to raise the profile of the Vehicle City by hosting a world-class road race.

The women’s finish was much closer as Everlyn Lagat (55:15) held off a late surge from Catherine Ndereba (55:19) and Dayna Pidhoresky (55:26). Everlyn is the sister of top U.S. runEverlyn Lagat beats 6 time Crim chamner Bernard Lagat. Julius Kogo pion Catherine Ndereba by 4 seconds. Likewise, Samuel and Catherine Ndereba form a formidable Olympics, in which she pair of running siblings, both finishing second expects to compete in the 800 meters. in this year’s race. (Catherine “The Great” Ndereba won the Crim six times between 1996 Gall acknowledged that her first 10-mile and 2002 and has hardly lost a step at age 39.) road race was “not what I’m used to” distance-wise, but she “had a great time.” Despite Dot McMahan was the first Michigan going out too fast -- which she said was “inwoman, finishing in 55:52, good for fifth overevitable” -- she finished in 1:04:46. “I really all. “I could see the lead pack all the way,” she respect distance runners … who have to be said. “I was 15 to 20 seconds behind them but strong minded to compete” on hard road surcouldn’t close the gap.” faces, she said. McMahan felt that the “lead pack pulled me along” to her goal of running sub-56:00. The Hansons-Brooks Project runner said she was beginning her training segment for the 10mile championship in Minneapolis and the Philadelphia half-marathon.

Among many other notable Michigan runners were Angela Matthews of Westland, who broke one hour for the first time (59:53), and Doug Goodhue of Milford (1:07:09) who won the men’s 65-69 age group for the fifth consecutive year.

Geena Gall is another elite runner with Michigan ties. Since graduating from the University of Michigan in 2009, she has run for Nike while training in Oregon for the London

Goodhue believes this was his 24th or 25th Crim 10-miler. “I love this race distance,” he said. “I like to run (10 miles) because it tests my speed, endurance and race strategy.”

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Geena Gall

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This was his longest race this year as he trains for U.S. 15K agegroup championship.

Crim is Treasured Rite Each Year

While the 10-mile event is the biggest draw (and includes wheelers and a competitive walk), the Crim Festival also includes 8K, 5K and 1mile runs and walks, plus a Teddy Bear Trot. Youth ruled the day in the shorter running events, as all the 8K and 5K winners were teenagers. Evan Carter, 17, of Southfield smoked the 8K competition with a time of 28:40, beating Bryan Heid (28:57) and Scott Ratkowski (29:20). Despite his plans to go out conservatively, Carter was “really mad” when he finished the first mile in 5:30. However, a friend challenged him to keep pushing the pace, saying “why back off … let’s go with it.” Carter passed his closest competitor on the hills near the 3-mile mark before pulling away. For the women, Shelby Jackson, 17, of Romeo topped two other teens to take the 8K in 31:35, outrunning Christina Firl (31:59) and Amanda George (34:35).

In the 5K, Mickey Davey, 14, of Troy ran a blazing 16:35, his personal best for that distance. “I went out at a decent pace and picked it up at the half-mile mark. I felt really good,” he said.

“I tried to pace myself,” said Jackson. “The hills were tough but I got through them OK.” She was not familiar with the course, but is “used to hills from training in Romeo.” Her long-term goal is to complete a marathon someday.

By Bill Kalmar The 35th running of the Crim Festival of Races Aug. 27 drew 16,800 runners, with close to 10,000 in the 10-mile race alone. I’ve run 24 of them and, as with past Crims, it was spectacular. A few highlights: • Race packet pickup is always flawless. I drive in Thursday, when the expo opens, determine my number from charts on the wall, then move to the appropriate line for the shirt and number, quick and easy. I have never heard anyone complain about the process. Hats off to the hundreds of volunteers who assemble the packages. • Parking on Saturday morning has never been a problem for me. I park on a side street and marvel at the number of runners who arrive at around 6:30 a.m. Flint police, unlike peers in other cities that host major events, do not make a habit of ticketing cars, even ones parked in a questionable manner. Other cities can learn a lot from Flint. • The camaraderie among runners as we await the start is exceptional. A shirt from a run in the Upper Peninsula or Marine Corps Marathon encourages runners to engage in a conversation. • The 7:30 a.m. start for the wheelers is always a moment to remember. These tough athletes don’t let physical impediments stop them from competing. The cheers and applause that accompany the start of the wheelers is always heartfelt. • There are always walkers, despite exhortations of management, who infiltrate the front at the start of the 10-mile race. When the gun goes off, they become like bumpers in a pinball machine. I would announce beforehand that walkers who mingle up front with runners risk being trampled. Maybe that would encourage them to retreat to where they belong.

Boaz Cheboiywo won a lease on a Buick Regal from Patsy Williamson Buick in Flint.

Davey separated himself from the field on a turn near the 1.5-mile mark, outpacing second-place finisher Robert Cameron (16:55) and third-place Michael McCarty (17:28). When I asked him, “Why run the Crim?” Davey replied, “Why not? The Crim is the biggest, funnest race … the best road race I’ve done. It has a great atmosphere. Even the other runners cheer for you. I will definitely be back next year.” For the women, Addie May, 15, of Flushing ran as if she was fleeing a burning building, crossing the finish line in 19:27 before nearly collapsing.

• It seems that whatever the race, there are runners who don’t follow street markings and cut corners on the turns. At the first mile, a young lady took a nasty fall trying to cut the corner, hitting the pavement without any hand bracing. That attempt to carve a second or two off her finishing time resulted in her missing the entire race. • One of the welcome sights on the run is around the two-mile mark when we pass in front of the U.S. post office. The presence of postal workers is always entertaining. • The sound of Riley McLincha “drubbling” three basketballs while he runs 9:30 miles is entertaining yet disconcerting. It’s fun to watch him never drop a ball, but troubling because I know he may pass me. • The residents along the route route are always energetic and seem to be having a great time. I wear my “I need more cowbell” t-shirt from the “Saturday Night Live” skit and those clanging their cowbells respond accordingly.

May didn’t want to take chances after finishing second last year, so she, “went out hard. I was really hurting by the second mile and had to back off a little.” Even after separating herself from the field near the two-mile mark, she kept pushing hard to the finish.

• As I approached the nine-mile mark, I saw a runner being shuttled across the street on a gurney on his way to an ambulance. Close but no cigar. Hope he is well.

May’s closest competitors were nearly two minutes behind, as Tessa Fornari, 13, took second in 21:15 and Lynsie Gram, 14, third in 21:55.

• The approach down the brick street to the finish line is invigorating. And if your name is called out over the loudspeaker, it is a special moment.

May won’t let this success go to her head, reciting what her mother told her: “You’ll be the same Addie May before the race and the same Addie May after the race. All that matters is how hard you try.”

• The pizza and soft drinks or a cold beer form the perfect ending to a great event.

Anthony Targan is a regular contributor to Michigan Runner magazine. He has run the Crim 10-miler more times than any other race (10), with a personal best of 1:08:52 in 2009. - MR -

The Crim management team and Flint residents deserve praise for hosting one of the premier events in our state. And I hope the Kenyans are grateful to me for allowing them to beat me again. I like to be a good host! - MR -

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Lessons, More Emerge in First College Meet

Photo by Pete Draugalis / draugalisphotography.com

By Rachael Steil For me, this part of the uniform was a sign of a true competitor, a serious runner, a bold, strong athlete. It meant I’d carry less fabric (thus less weight) in the race. With these bottoms I would have everything going for me — until I was 100 meters into the race and feeling the effects of minimal fabric.

“Quick feet, quick feet!” Woj seemed to be popping up out of nowhere on the course to remind me to increase my turnover. We had worked all summer towards me losing my lunging, loping stride from high school — now it felt like I was becoming the runner I was meant to be.

But I was wearing the Aquinas uniform. This college choice was mine. I was representing the school I trusted, the team I would fight for. I could not have toed the starting line with more confidence and pride.

The summer training, the wisdom of my new coach and confidence I had built was creating this beastly, happy running machine. I felt unstoppable — until I approached The Canyon.

Little did I know that by running this race, I was running toward my future, toward realizing who I would become as a new college athlete.

If I felt beastly, it was nothing compared to this animal of a hill. You had to tumble down to the depths, then battle a hill on steroids — if you could call it a hill. It was either that, a mountain or face-planting death match (funeral march instrumental, please).

The race continued with this garment mishap as I pushed to increase the gap between me and my competitors. But I grew less concerned over what I must have looked like from behind and more focused on the race at hand — I was winning my first college invitational and feeling great doing it.

Rachael Steil

he maroon bun-huggers were not fitting right. They were riding up so much that I felt I had to be showing skin.

It didn’t help that my competition had full view of my emerging cheeks as I ran to the front of the pack. I was leading my first college race and mooning my foes while doing it. This was all new for me — and I don’t just mean wearing ill-fitted bun-huggers. I had transitioned from high school to college runner, representing Aquinas in a newly-trained body. I felt light and toned, strengthened from Egypt Valley hill training and interval workouts at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. My mind was stronger, confidence higher. I had been a high 18- to low 19-minute 5K runner in high school. But today would be different. I was running for a different team and had a new school identity. The uniform colors were the same, but instead of the large Grandville “G” I had “AQ” stamped to the chest of my maroon top. And I was wearing what I thought was the most-anticipated part of the entire uniform, the prized bun-huggers. I had been waiting my entire high school career for those babies, and now it was time to wear them proudly. I was the only freshman, and one of the very few on the team, who decided to wear what some people (with a smirk) call “running underwear.” 16

Whether it was the help of the bun-huggers or not, I felt as light as a feather. I was flying over the course with the greatest range of motion I had ever felt. My legs were churning without the extra fabric of shorts to constrict them. This offset my concern that my butt was no longer completely covered. As I floated over the rolling, grassy Calvin College cross country course (no golfing allowed, it was for runners only) I felt free at last. Coach “Woj” advised me beforehand to stay with the front group and not take the lead until later, but I couldn’t resist pulling ahead after half a mile. Staying with these front girls wasn’t an option; I felt as if we were jogging. I came through the first mile in 5:38 — the fastest I had ever started a 5K but I felt as if I were barely breathing. The only person ahead was the guy driving the golf cart. “Let’s go, Rachael!” I was surprised to see Aquinas track team peers there to cheer us on. They already knew my name! Other parents and spectators called to me as well, while others cheered, “Go Aquinas!”

Slippery mud did not help the situation. I made it down to the canyon OK (I think the bun-hugger ordeal was embarrassing enough; Life was giving me a break). As I began powering up the hill, exhaustion hit. I lifted my knees as I forged through the mud that clogged my spikes, losing momentum. For a moment I thought how foolish it was to have gone out so hard, even though I had felt fine earlier. Dumb freshman, the spectators would think. Did I run beyond what I was capable of? “You won’t reach your potential at Aquinas …” These words crept into my mind. Not only was this hill a physical test, but a mental one. Negative words made their way from my brain and seeped into my tiring muscles. I had to push them away to prove how strong I could be competing for a smaller school. I’d been told I would need a Division 1 atmosphere to get where I wanted to be with running. I was out to prove these people wrong, to prove to myself I had chosen right going where I felt that I best belonged. With that realization I surged up the final crest of the hill, focused on my swinging arms, and took off. I had a race to win.

It was hard to take in at first — was I really representing Aquinas? How cool was it to be called out like that, to be leading and making my school proud!

I did not know how close my competitors were, but back at the two-mile mark I’d sensed one girl was gaining on me. Indeed she was. With half a mile to go, she reached me.

I could not believe how many people were screaming my name, encouraging and supporting me. I felt empowered and in control. This new name, this identity of being an Aquinas Saint was a beautiful thing — I was representing a choice I had made and was proud of it. I wanted to show everyone what I was capable of doing and lead my team to a great finish.

I heard her breathing hard as she approached, but her breathing was steadier than mine. She had energy left. She would pass me, ruin me, I feared. But college is different, as I learned many times that day.

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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“Nice job, girl” she breathed as she ran beside me. Her voice was encouraging; her words had emotion, a genuine feel. I was

shocked — this competitor was supporting me? Helping me during the race? From the moment she said that, I knew I was in a different atmosphere. A bun-hugger, friendly-competitor atmosphere. I tried to stay on the blue-uniform-girl’s shoulder, but my legs would not respond. She pulled away, her swinging auburn ponytail shrinking in the distance. With a quarter mile to go, my energy was at an all-time low until I heard, “Come on Rach! You’re at 16:45!” Woj was bent low to the ground, almost squatting. He clapped his hands with wild energy, as excited as I was to discover how well I was actually running. As I turned the corner and sprinted into the final straightaway, I watched in disbelief as the 17’s clicked away on the clock. The 17’s! Never before had I been that close to the finish to see those digits. But I watched with exhaustion as those beautiful numbers clicked over to an 18. Seven seconds later I crossed the line with a new personal best and officially become an Aquinas cross country runner — loose bun-huggers and all.

Recovery Palooza Dry Run/Walk, Grand Rapids

Recovery Palooza: Small Package, Big Rewards By Tamara Steil GRAND RAPIDS (9/15/11) – Enthusiastic race director Susan Smith hoped to draw at least 50 entrants to the third annual Recovery Palooza Dry Run/Walk 5K, put on by Network 180 at Riverside Park. She was thrilled when 47 people signed up for the run and 10 more came to walk. The weather was a perfect 50 degrees for a Thursday night jaunt through the flat, fast and scenic park. There was little or no traffic since much of the course was on a bike path next to the Grand River. After the panic brought on by a city computer crash which wiped out any knowledge of the race or city obligations to it (traffic control, cones and police supervision for the part of the course on the street), Smith shrugged and enlisted others to cone the course and keep

the race a success. To her knowledge of past races at this venue, the course was accurate. Susanna Gaunt, 40, was the overall winner in 18:40. It’s always fun when a woman can battle to first place overall. The second woman was Tamara Steil, 57, quite a ways back in 24:49. The top male and second overall was Kevin Vredeveld, 45, in 19:47, followed by Orellana Aben, 36, in 20:30. The race was truly about recovery, with several participants running their first race and celebrating sobriety and good health. It was inspiring to watch them, a great experience shared by all. This would be a fun race to put on your calendar next year. - MR -

Little did I know how much support I’d had on the course. Voices had intermixed as I’d forged the grassy, bumpy ground. But their encouragement surrounded me at the finish. Family friends hugged and congratulated me, even the ones who often confused the sport of “track“ with “cross country.” A former, younger cross country teammate in high school was there to cheer for me. Even one of the freshman high school girls on the team I had met just weeks ago was there to support me. Text messages from other Grandville teammates and my high school coach filled my cell phone inbox. Even though I was away at college and embracing a new life, I was still connected to the past, friends and family. I was still remembered at the nest, but spreading my wings to fly successfully on my own. My parents were ecstatic when I approached them, of course. But I was less concerned about my time than with that mishap out on the course. “Oh my word, did you see my butt? Were my bun-huggers bad?” I asked frantically. They laughed. “Just a bit, but not too awful,” my mom answered as she hugged me. Luckily, what I felt had looked like a thong showed only minimal skin. I was beginning a new life as a runner. I had the support of friends and family, a body developed from all the years of hard work and improved training, and the confidence to keep soaring, bun-huggers and all. - MR michiganrunner.net

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Beyond the Chip

Alma Mater By Laurel Park

My own high school career was middling at best. In retrospect, I was my own worst enemy. One of my teammates was a state champion and another was just a few notches below her on the talent chart. I convinced myself that I could never be as good as either of them, and darn if I wasn’t right. Yet what I remember most from those years was how much fun we had, not just in hanging out and going to meets and team picnics and such, but in working hard, setting goals and pushing ourselves. The satisfaction of a race well run and the frustration of making mistakes. The importance of developing discipline, creating a plan and sticking with it. Attention to details. Loyalty and teamwork. I warmed up for the race along streets that are familiar, but only vaguely so. Many of the horse farms that I remember are now subdivisions. Dirt roads have been paved and new ones are popping up everywhere, with cutesy names like “Buckboard Circle” and “Hackney Court.” While a few old businesses remain, strip malls and shopping centers clutter the area. I recognized most of the buildings in the old downtown district, but not their tenants. It was a strange feeling, like being a visitor in my own home. I’m not really sure when I started to think of myself as a “runner.” After graduating from high school, I took a few months off but knew I’d be back. Fresh from some time away and free from the weight of my teammates’ accomplishments, I started to enjoy running again. I entered some local races, just for fun, and did pretty well. At the beginning of my junior year, I joined the University of Michigan track team. There, guided by excellent coaches and sur-

gun sounds, the adrenaline surges and everyone takes off like a shot. By the time the course turns into the subdivision, which coincides with a very gentle uphill, the adrenaline has worn off and the real work begins. This is the point at which being passed by someone as old as your mom makes for a vicious reality check. After college, I continued to train and race with the Ann Arbor Track Club. My running caught the eye of Bill Stewart, a former worldclass miler who was looking to assemble a training group for his girlfriend, Ann Boyd, an elite marathoner. Bill’s goals for me were even higher than my own. Under his tutelage, and pushed by motivated training partners, my running improved exponentially. In 1995 and 1996, I was chosen to represent the United States at the half-marathon world championships. My teammates included two Olympians and people I’d seen on the covers of national running magazines. I was standing on the starting line, wearing a team “USA” uniform, surrounded by some of the best runners in the world. Wow.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

n early September I ran the 20th annual Witch’s Hat Run, held in my hometown of South Lyon. I’ve attended all 20 events and participated in 19. Ever since its founding, Witch’s Hat has been one of my favorite races: well-organized, an interesting and not-terriblychallenging course, and plenty of free parking just steps from the finish line. The biggest draw, however, is the chance to mingle with current South Lyon High School athletes. The race benefits the South Lyon cross-country program, and both the boys’ and girls’ teams are present en masse throughout the event. They help out where needed beforehand, then toe the line and battle it out with parents, friends and numerous other people who own race shirts that are a lot older than they are. Sometimes they run it for fun and sometimes they run it to win. As a former South Lyon runner myself, I get a kick out of seeing the kids and I feel a bit of a bond with them.

Laurel Park won the Witch’s Hat 5K in 2010 in 18:42. rounded by talented teammates, my times dropped and my confidence rose, culminating with a sixth-place finish in the 10,000 meters at the 1985 Big Ten track meet. I left college convinced that the best was yet to come.

he Witch’s Hat 5K starts from the high school, goes for about half a mile down a paved road that used to be dirt, winds through a subdivision that used to be a farm, loops back along a path that used to be a railroad track, and finishes behind the school in a field that, if I recall correctly, has always been a field. Milling around prior to the start, I kept an eye on the high school kids. The boys usually wear their team uniforms, and like most males, travel in a pack. The girls sometimes wear uniforms, sometimes not, and usually cluster in groups of three or four, scattered throughout the rest of the runners. There is some whooping and hollering among the boys, like warriors preparing for battle. The girls giggle nervously among themselves. Then the

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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It has been 30 years since I graduated from South Lyon High. The building where the race takes place is not “my” high school, which is located on the opposite side of town and now serves as one of two middle schools. The current high school was constructed in 1990, with a second high school, South Lyon East, added in 2004. One individual class in the new high school has almost as many students as the sophomore, junior and senior classes combined back in the day. My own class had about 110 kids, which seems awfully small, yet it created a sense of community where -- for better or worse -- everyone knew each other, and most of us had grown up together. Some kids came from families that had been in the area for generations, so certain names popped up like clockwork every ten yearsor so. When the Witch’s Hat race first began, I would bump into classmates, or siblings of classmates, and maybe a former teacher or two. It happens less frequently now, although every so often I’ll have an encounter that sets my brain scrambling to match a 2011 face with a 1981 name. Last October my husband and I attended the Bucknell University Athletics Hall-of-Fame Ceremony. Among the inductees was a runner, class of 1983, who had joined the BU crosscountry team as a walk-on. At that time, the school provided only enough money for the top seven runners to stay in the team hotel at overnight meets. The Bucknell coach would call upon his network of friends, colleagues and probably even a few enemies, to find sofas and floors where the rest of the team could

The years since those world championship races have brought both extreme frustration and tremendous satisfaction. I’ve battled numerous injuries, including a few that kept me sidelined for months at a time. Yet between injuries, I’ve had some wonderful races, notching unexpected victories and recording times that I no longer thought possible. Correcting the problems that caused those injuries has made me a stronger, more efficient runner, so for at least a little while, the impact of age has been mitigated by improved biomechanics. When I turned 40, I discovered the fun of master’s racing, which presented a new set of goals and introduced me to yet another group of terrific people. I’m still determined to beat as many open runners as I can, but it’s tempting to look at some of the master’s age-group records and think, hmmm, that might be worth a shot. I‘m just as motivated as I was 30 years ago, though hopefully much wiser (that’s open to debate) and more aware of the fine line between “just enough” and “too much.”

fter finishing the 5K and changing my shoes, I jogged back along the course until I found the race director, who is also the boys’ cross-country coach, who was also my classmate and a friend since about second grade. He saw me coming and started to wave. “Gentlemen!” he hollered, summoning his athletes who were scattered in the area. They formed a loose circle around us. “Guys,” he said, “this is Laurel Park. She graduated from South Lyon and is now a nationallyranked runner.” The kids murmured their hellos. “So, you’re the infamous Laurel Park,” one of them said with a smile. “We hear a lot about you!” “All good things, I hope,” I responded. “Yep, I graduated from this program, and I’m still competing. I still enjoy it, too.” They nodded in agreement and wandered back to the race. In truth, there was a lot more that I wanted to say. I wanted to encourage them to stick with running, to discover all the great things that running can bring to their lives. I wanted to describe the valuable lessons that running has taught me: discipline, perseverance, the ability to appreciate success for what it is worth and failure for what it can teach. I wanted to tell them to enjoy their high school days, but also to realize that even better ones lie ahead. Mostly, I wanted to tell them to aim for the damn hotel. - MR -

Somerset Stampede, Somerset

Romanowski, John Lead Somerset Stampede By Charles Douglas McEwen SOMERSET (8/20/11) — The sixth annual Somerset Stampede Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk started at Somerset Beach Campground with the University of Michigan marching band performing fight songs. Then 280 runners went to battle against a sometimes unforgiving course. “Everyone in that crowd (at the start) had a smile on their face when they heard the band perform,” race director Dave Parham said.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

crash. Being one of the top seven athletes not only meant running in the varsity race, it meant sleeping in a comfortable bed the night before. By the start of his junior year, Dave said, he had only one goal: “I wanted to sleep in the damn hotel.” By the time he graduated, Dave had run the second-fastest 1500-meter time in Bucknell history and was a member of several school-record relay teams. And, he was sleeping in the damn hotel.

Hills are tough and scenery is beautiful along the course.

Smiles turned to grimaces when runners tackled the 13.1-mile race. The half marathon had paved and dirt roads, a backwoods trail and lots of hills (not necessarily in that order). ‘It’s the toughest course I’ve ever run,” said Dalila John. “I wasn’t expecting it to be hills the entire way. About mile nine, my legs were pretty tired.” Still, John, 32, of Adrian and Tom Romanowski, 41, of Hudson handled it pretty well. They were the overall winners in the half marathon. John set a PR in winning the women’s race in 1:34:56. “That makes it a little sweeter,” John said. “It definitely shows that I’ve improved.” Mandi Hohnstadt, 23, of Macomb finished second in 1:41:11, almost 12 minutes faster than her time last year. Marcy Sacks, 41, of Albion, third overall in 1:43:25, won her second straight women’s masters crown. Romanowski, who finished second last year after leading for the first 11 miles, led the whole way this year, winning in 1:21:38. “I usually go out hard and see if I can hang in a race,” he said. “Lately, I’ve learned to conserve a little.” The Hudson High School math teacher es-

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tablished a big lead early, then began hearing footsteps of Austin Taylor, 22, of Ann Arbor toward the end of the race. “He kept closing on me,” Romanowski said. “And that last mile, when we came out of the woods, he was coming pretty hard. I knew I was going to have to kick it in.” Taylor finished 13 seconds behind Romanowski in 1:21:51. “That last mile or two, he was really cooking,” Taylor said of Romanowski. David McComb, 23, a second-year medical school student who lives in Lansing, took third in 1:23:39. “It’s peaceful out there,” he said. “I only saw three cars, and two of them were cops.” With Romanowski winning overall, Brian Mazur, 43, of Jackson, fourth in 1:24:50, was given the masters title. Teenagers reigned supreme in the 5K, as Bryce Bradley, 17, of Chelsea (16:53) and Mindy Freeland, 18, of Albion (23:52) prevailed. The top masters were Joshua Donnelly, 40, of Jackson (20:38) and Becky Dalton, 45, of North Adams (27:47). For complete race results, go to http://somerset-run.com. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Dances with Dirt, Pinckney-Hell

Onsted Ringers Keep Rolling at Dances with Dirt By Charles Douglas McEwen

The Lansing-based Ringers — among them Grant Woodman, Matt Bozung, John Walz, Jerome Recker and captain Pat Mitchell — won the 100K relay for the third straight year. “This is our 16th year doing this race and I think the ninth time we’ve won,” said Mitchell, whose team won in 7:25:52, slower than last year’s 7:18:14. “They’ve had a lot of rain around here in the last three weeks and some of the trails are really torn up,” Woodman said. “We have the advantage of knowing the course pretty well at this point,” Bozung added. Next came The Crusaders (7:34:18), Greenwood All-Stars (7:48:40), Pillow Talk (7:52:06) and Goosed (8:01:18).

Stephanie Schreiber, 25, of Oxford showed patience, persistence and fearlessness in winning the women’s 50-mile ultra. Schreiber fell down “nine or 10 times,” she said. And she briefly got stuck in the mud. But she trekked through muck and deep water too. “We were about waist-high in the river and it was at least a quarter-mile long,” said Schreiber, who ran the race with her coach, Brian Thomas. She trailed another woman who eventually dropped, but Schreiber didn’t know that. “I thought she was ahead of me,” said Schreiber. “That’s what kept me going. I wanted to catch her.” Schreiber had no trouble finding her way around the complicated course. “Running Fit did a great job,” she said. “And the people at the aid stations were wonderful. So helpful.” Schreiber finished in 9:14:10. Next came Clara Clemens, 27, of Indianapolis (9:44:45) and top master Linda Hartman, 42, of Imlay City (10:17:25).

Of the 375 five-person teams that registered for Dances With Dirt, 350 finished. Leading the all-women quintets was The Bobcats in 8:57:48, followed by Turtle Power (9:25:34), Naughty School Girls (9:30:51), Thong Thugs (10:01:26) and Getting Laid (10:20:55).

Dave Eaton, 32, of Grand Rapids paced the men in 7:45:06, followed by masters champ Matthew Condron, 45, Libertyville, Ill. (8:24:51) and Jim Wynn, 43, of Okemos (8:39:09).

Other distaff teams boasted names such as Ivy Off My Hiny, Cardiac Disasters, Obsessive Trail Disorder and The Damned.

Eaton concentrated on orienteering his way through the wilderness. “They make it tough,” he said. “They’ve got a lot of trails and a lot of bushwacking. I’m sure there was poison ivy in there.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

PINCKNEY (9/24/11) — You’ve Been Goosed chased Pillow Talk, who shadowed the Lee Greenwood All-Stars, who pursued the Coney Island Crusaders. In the end, no team could keep up with the Onsted Ringers in Running Fit’s Dances with Dirt at Pinckney Recreation Area.

The Bobcats

“I got a little cut up. It was worth it though,” he said. Eaton ran fast, but didn’t worry much about time. “I don’t even have a watch on,” he said. Runner-up Condron was pleased with his time. “I’ve been doing one (50-mile ultra) a month since February,” he said. “The more I do, the quicker I recover. “I’m not getting any faster, but I’m not suffering at the end as much,” he said.

Angela Justice, 33, of Canton led the women in 5:33:08. Next came Stefanie Newsome, 30, of Cummin, Ga. (5:50:05) and masters queen Wendy Caldwell, 40, of Whitmore Lake (6:12:20).

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Mickey Edwards won the 50K ultra in 4:53:37, followed by Paul Johnson, 25, of Chicago (5:00:47) and masters champ Henry Layne, 42, of Fishers, Ind. (5:03:40).

Onsted Ringers 20

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

Recent Comstock Park High School graduate Jaclynn Haney, 18, finished sixth in 6:27:54. “That run was ridiculous,” she said. “Around every corner there was something new — some new challenge to overcome. “I’ve never even done a marathon (before this). I’ve done one 10K. That’s it,” she said.

It’s fun to be wet. michiganrunner.tv

About 275 ultramarathoners competed in the 50-mile and 50K. For complete race results, go to www.danceswithdirt.com. - MR -

Mt. Baldhead Challenge, Saugatuck

Mt. Baldhead Challenge Soars Again By Scott Sullivan (19:05) and Margaret Chamberlin, 45, of Grand Rapids (28:36).

SAUGATUCK-DOUGLAS (9/10/11) — Runners can’t help but stare at stairs at the Mt. Baldhead Challenge.

Photo by Scott Sullivan

There, midway through the 15K course, they face you: 302 steps up the massive Mt. Baldhead sand dune.

The 15K saw 133 finishers; the 5K 119 — both up, especially in the 5K — from last year’s first Douglas-to-Douglas effort. There was also a Little Feet, Big Feat children’s fun run during sign-ups and packet pickups the night before. Festivities started and ended in downtown Saugatuck during the races’ first 11 years, then went on a 2009 hiatus when the 50-year-old Mt. Baldhead steps were rebuilt that autumn.

At the summit temptation looms: to drink in views of Lake Michigan and the Tonya Book (left) and Amy Baraducci look none-tooSaugatuck-Douglas thrilled about starting the Mt. Baldhead steps. harbor with your cups of Gatorade or water — you have earned Fifth-place Keith Shoemaker, 34, of Holthem — or take off at once down the sandy land, trailed only Barnes entering the wooded trails portion of the Challenge. The race, and Ox-Bow art school campus before the stairs, more scenic adventures, wait. then lost contact. A wrong turn added close to a mile to route he covered. Kyle Barnes, 27, of Auckland, N.Z., separated himself quickly from the other 15K fin“I saw extra scenery for my entry fee,” ishers, especially as the only one fit (or crazy) said Shoemaker. “But I’d rather just run the enough to run the entire stairs. regular course next time.” Barnes won by more than six minutes in 54:40. He was followed by Michael Nasuta, 25, of Portage (1:00:43) and Austin Vondracek, 22, of Holland (1:01:43). Next came the top two masters: Craig Spoelhof, 43, of Holland (1:02:58) and Jim Springer, 46, of Saugatuck, who trains on these trails, roads and stairways, in 1:04:17.

Carrie Hasse, 36, of Dorr finished 10th overall and top woman in 1:09:56. Amy Busse, 38, of Grand Haven edged Kelly Daniels, 37, also of that city, for second, 1:12:31 to 1:12:39. Tammy Bowman, 42, of St. Joseph paced the women’s masters in 1:15:35 — within sight but not reach of Tina Wickert, 43, of Battle Creek, who finished just 25 seconds back.

They resumed last year with Beery Field in Douglas as start and end points and revised courses including Ox-Bow and more trails in the 15K Challenge. Numbers peaked in the mid-2000s, but loss of a major bank sponsor during the 2008 fiscal crisis and momentum the year the steps were rebuilt left organizers with a literal uphill battle.

This year they, and runners — tackling one of the most unforgettable courses in Michigan Roseville Big Bird 0911_Roseville Big Bird 8/10/11 12:0 — came through. - MR -

33rd Annual

Nov. 13, 2011

Photo by Scott Sullivan

Saugatuck High School’s stateranked cross country runners dominated the 5K, with all-state junior Sean Kelly besting coach Rick Bauer for first place among the males, 15:51 to 15:56. SHS all-stater Heather Price did the same to (or with) her coach and Rick’s wife, Angelina Bauer, 19:33 to 19:35.

Leading 15K runners at the start of the Mt. Baldhead Challenge are Keith Shoemaker (bib 174), eventual winner Kyle Barnes (184) and Bob Testa (169). michiganrunner.net

The top 5K masters were Kelly Price, 48, of Holland |

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Kayla O’Mara Memorial Races, Goodrich

Goodrich Remembers Departed Star By Anthony Targan

They came from all over Michigan, but most were coming home to Goodrich to pay tribute to a girl who still means so much to this community; a girl whose life ended tragically five years ago. Kayla O’Mara was just 16. This is a story about a race where no one cared very much who won. It’s about a community that has coalesced, about teammates and siblings who have survived heartbreak and turned it into something positive. The first Kayla Run came together in August 2006 at the initiative of Goodrich High School cross country parents and athletic director Al Martus (recently deceased). That first race was barely six months after the unthinkable occurred one January night on an ice-covered road. As reported by Michigan Runner at the time: “Tragedy struck the Michigan running community Jan. 24, 2006, when Goodrich High School junior Kayla O’Mara, 16, was killed in a Grand Blanc Township car crash that injured her twin sister, Kaitlin, and driver Danielle Bila, 17. “The O’Maras were members of five Division 3 state championship teams at Goodrich, three in cross country and two in track … The girls were headed for a coffee shop to study with other students when the accident occurred, police said. Neither drugs nor alcohol were involved.

a.m., the sun had pumped up the heat and humidity. Undeterred, Alex Ralston set a new course record of 15:13 (a 4:55 pace).

use. This year, nine $1,000 scholarships were granted. Nearly $50,000 total has been awarded since 2006.

“Running in the heat is kind of my thing,” said Ralston, 22. “I didn’t know what kind of shape I was in, but I gave it everything I had.”

This year’s races started with the 10K handcyclists, won by Ben Diaz, 68, of Goodrich. About 200 10K runners took off at 7:30. Benefitting from overcast skies that kept temperatures in check, runners turned in fast times despite a hilly course that included some dirt roads.

Ralston was a classmate of Kayla and Kaitlin, which explains why he came all the way from Jackson to run this race. He spoke for everyone when he said what a “huge loss” Kayla’s death was to Goodrich, so he tries to come back every year to give something back.

Photo by Ted Nykiel

GOODRICH (8/6/11) — They came from Grand Blanc and Grand Rapids, from Flint and Flushing and Fenton. They came from Ann Arbor, Swartz Creek and as far away as Marquette.

Shane Logan, 32, of Kayla O’Mara Pontiac, who led wire-towire to win in 33:31 (a 5:25/mile pace), found the race “harder than I thought.” He was “shocked” to lead the whole way, but managed to hold off the “kids who were right behind me” at the finish. (Six of the top nine finishers were under 20.) Male masters winner Kurt Walrath, 41, of Fenton finished third overall in 34:25. Perennial women’s winner Suzanne Larsen, 33, of Fenton defended her 10K crown in 37:10 and Marybeth Reader, 42, of Bloomfield was the masters winner in 40:34. By the time the 5K runners lined up at 9

Hometown favorite Taylor Pogue, 19, won the women’s 5K in 17:51. Doubling as masters winners were Walrath in 17:56 and Reader in 20:01. Here’s one statistic that says a lot about this race: More than half of the 340 5K runners were under age 25. Have you ever tried to get a teenager up before noon on a weekend? Yet here they were, turning out in droves for their fallen friend, her family and one another. Rachel Reyna, 20, of Swartz Creek came because, “I competed against Kayla and Kaitlin in high school, and I also have a twin sister. It makes me want to come here every year” to support the race and O’Mara family. Kayla was survived by a brother, Jeff, and two sisters, her twin Kaitlin and Erin. Jeff and Kaitlin ran in this year’s 5K, and Erin, the 2009 5K winner, again served as race director. “I try to keep participants returning by offering a good value and a quality event,” said

In the five years since that fateful day, the Kayla Run has become a Goodrich tradition, always held on the first Saturday in August. This year’s sixth running included a 10K (with a new handcycle division) followed by a 5K run/walk — with enough time in between to run both races — and a 1-mile fun run. All event proceeds went to the Kayla O’Mara Memorial Scholarship, awarded to high school seniors involved in athletic clubs or organizations. Recipients must exemplify Kayla’s qualities, including teamwork, academic integrity and abstinence from drug and alcohol 22

Photo by Brandon Degrouchy

“The rise of Goodrich, a 708-student school southeast of Flint, to running prominence coincided with the O’Mara twins’ arrival. As freshmen, Kayla finished second and Kaitlin fifth in the D-3 Lower Peninsula cross country finals, leading the Martians to the first of their string of titles.”

Gathering to celebrate their late Goodrich teammate, Kayla O’Mara, were (from left) Kelsey Krych, Danielle Bila, Kaitlin O’Mara, Kelsey Meyers, Janee Jones and Samantha Minkler.

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Erin. “I try to keep race fees reasonable while still providing a quality medal, above-average post-race food and good age-group awards.” She succeeded on all counts.

By Dean Johnson

Erin started running “shortly after the accident. I ran my first marathon in 2006 and haven’t stopped since.

“Initially I thought of Kayla often while running,” she said. “It was something I did that allowed me to be alone with my thoughts. Now running is just a part of who I am.”

The longest training run I did was 18 miles, which I did twice and seemed re-e-e-ally long. Race day was cool and I went out fast.

“Running in Kayla’s race is an honor,” said her twin Kaitlin. “It’s a great day where I feel everything is dedicated to Kayla and people are able to get a glimpse at how great of a person she truly was.” Their ex-teammates “always get together to decorate sport bras or tank tops in memory of Kayla,” she continued. “The old team recently decided to run the race together every year in Kayla’s memory. “It’s a great day for us all to remember how, back in high school, we would run down the roads of Goodrich with Kayla by our side, talking and laughing the whole time.” Running was also part of Kaitlin’s recovery from the accident. “Erin tells me she used to run with me even when I was still at Mary Free Bed (Rehabilitation Hospital), as part of my physical therapy sessions,” Kaitlin said. On race day, Kayla’s presence was palpable from start to finish. Her high school medals and newspaper clippings were displayed next to the registration table. At the post-race awards, a photo showed Kayla in full stride while running for Goodrich; the same image adorned the medal all finishers received. When the races were over no one hurried home. Hundreds lingered for prize drawings, introduction of the scholarship winners and awards ceremony. Mostly, no one wanted to say goodbye. It was a fitting tribute to a remarkable girl. Anthony Targan is a regular contributor to Michigan Runner magazine. - MR -

ight out of college I was thin and fast, with a 10K PR of 33:27. I decided it was time to conquer the marathon so I entered the Detroit Free Press event, pretty sure I’d qualify for the Olympic marathon trials.

At 10 miles I was cruising toward the front, at 13 I started to fall apart, and at 19 miles I dropped out. Few things are as humiliating in life as climbing onto the stragglers’ bus, especially when you think you’re a really good runner. After a few years of pouting I decided it was time to try again. This time I entered the very flat Chicago Marathon since, you know, the Detroit course is so incredibly hilly. I had put on some weight, which I planned to take off before the race but didn’t. But I did learn the lesson about longs runs, so I did runs of 18, 20, 22 and 24 miles — but that last one I did just two weeks before the race, which was not enough to get the benefit and to fully recover. I also bought “performance trainers” which were basically racing flats, and ran all that pavement in them (for the first time on race day) instead of my sufficiently-cushioned regular shoes. And I didn’t understand anything about taking in calories during the race. You’ve probably guessed that I’m telling you all this because I fell apart again, failing miserably, though I did eventually stumble across the finish line. Ten years later I decided that rather than another road marathon, doing a 50K on difficult trails was somehow a better idea. I did the longs runs again up to 24 miles (three weeks before the race), became an expert on energy gel and entered the Dances with Dirt Ultra.

pened across the Ohio Canal trail, which runs on the flat towpath of the old canal between Cleveland and Akron, and I discovered they run a marathon on it every October. This would be perfect for me! It would be off pavement (because I’m getting old and I’ve still never taken off that extra weight) on a beautiful, shaded, flat crushed-limestone trail. By this time, I knew I had the marathon training and racing process all figured out. I could write a book — in fact, I probably would after I finally conquered the marathon that October day. I did the long runs — even hitting 26 miles one cool September morning on the I-275 bike trail (which was dirt at the time because they were reconstructing it) and the new Lower Rouge River dirt trail through Canton. A 26-miler! Who does that? Only people who are finally going to subjugate the marathon! As the race began I was surprised that I simply could not make my legs run anywhere near my goal pace. I felt fine, but they wouldn’t go. I should mention that I never time my training runs, I just put in the mileage. If I need to run 8:17 mile pace, the honest truth is that I have no idea how fast any of my training miles had been. I had never thought this would be a problem. I’m guessing now that my training miles must have been about 9 minutes each, because that’s what I ran in the marathon 26 times. If I had only done some sprints after my runs or some tempo runs, some fartlek, anything fast. In all my marathon training and racing, I guess I’ve really only learned one thing — that when it comes to marathons, as Rosanna-Rosannadana used to say “It’s always something.” Dean Johnson is pastor of Lake Pointe Bible Church in Plymouth. - MR -

My plan was to run “controlled” for 19 miles, at which point the course comes out of a river and there’s a drop-bag station where I would change my shoes. Then, if I felt good, I would take off. I was indeed feeling great after being refreshed in the river, put on fresh Nikes and boy did I take off, passing dozens of people. Mistake/blunder/faux pas. The masochists who laid out the DWD 50K made the last six miles of the course the “Potowotamie” trail section, the most hilly and difficult part of the course. My legs seized up and dozens of people passed me (I’d seen them before), though I did eventually stumble across the finish line. Last year on a family vacation in Ohio we hapmichiganrunner.net

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

The Brooksie Way, Rochester

Record Crowds, Sunny Skies Highlight Brooksie Way By Ron Marinucci

This was the fourth annual Brooksie Way half-marathon and 5K, held to honor the active lifestyle of Oakland County Executive Brooks Patterson’s son Brooksie, who died in a 2007 snowmobile accident. Organized and directed by Deb Kiertzner and the Crim crew, the Brooksie has grown each year. It began in 2008 with about 3,000 runners and walkers. This year, almost 4,300 completed the half-marathon and 5K. The onemile fun run, which included many junior high school students, pushed the announced record number to more than 5,100.

The featured half-marathon drew a record 4,266 finishers. Due to traffic snarls caused by late-arriving runners, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department requested a 15-minute delay in the start. This year’s races brought together new start and finish areas. The old finish was at Meadowbrook Mansion. Although the new one was not as scenic it was more runner-friendly, leaving entrants much closer to their cars. The course was pretty, beginning on the OU campus and heading east (on this morning, into brilliant sunshine) and south for almost four miles, with some rolling terrain. Runners then followed the crushed-stone Clinton River Trail, exiting for a mile and a half through picturesque downtown Rochester and a jaunt through the municipal park. The soft Paint Creek Trail took runners almost to mile eight.

The 5K looped through the Oakland University campus and had a couple hills to test runners’ mettle. Among the 1,522 finishers were running legends Greg Meyer and Lisa Rainsberger.

The final five miles were on main roads, paved except for three-fourths of a mile of gravel, closed to traffic and well-marshaled. These were hilly miles, with more than half a dozen grinders of varying lengths.

Men’s winner James Abby (18:11) was pushed by runner-up and masters champ Jeff Martin (18:25). Eryn Caton (19:34) led the women. Top master Patricia Collins (20:47)

The first of those grinders brought hoots from some participants.. “Is this a hill?” and “A hill … and into the wind! It doesn’t get any better than this.” By the last one, just about at mile 12, runners were much quieter. Several were seen finishing in minimalist shoes, while one unidentified finisher seemed to be wearing dress shoes, wing-tips at that!

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

“The half-marathon is a great course,” said Brooksie veteran Tracey Rizer. “The first half is pretty easy, which is deceiving because the second half is really hilly. You have to plan for that.” Rizer, who finished fourth in her age group, obviously did. Mike Frank, running his second Brooksie, liked the course and new finish. “It was nice to have the wind at our backs and warm sun in

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Although overnight temperatures dipped into the 30s, by race start they were in the low 40s and climbing under sunny skies. Only an intermittent but pretty stiff wind that cropped up about an hour into the race marred a delightful morning.

nosed out Grace Charnesky, 13, by one second for runner-up.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

ROCHESTER HILLS (10/2/11) — Frost on early-morning windshields was a clue that this would be the chilliest Brooksie yet.

Sarah Gryniewcz

Shane Logan

our face,” he said. Walking from the finish area in matching disco tie-dyed red tee shirts were teammates John Soma, Vince Kania and Steve Swiftney. “We’re on the Hansons team … not the Bteam but the F-team,” they joked. “The race is awesome, well-organized … a machine,” Soma said. The teammates also enjoyed the crowd support. “We need more cowbells,” they laughed. “Hand out cowbells to everyone.” Support came from not only friends and families, but the communities, local businesses and groups. Music was provided by several DJs, more than half a dozen bands and solo performers. Shane Logan (1:11:59) and Sarah Gryniewicz (1:23:38) were the half-marathon winners. Neither was pushed, Logan winning by more than four minutes and Gryniewicz by more than two. Gryniewcz, who is now student teaching, ran for Grand Valley State University last spring, winning the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference 10,000 meters in 35:15.

Michigan Runner TV http://michiganrunner.tv/2011brooksie/ Leo Foley, 2010 half marathon winner, proposes to 2011 runner-up Leah Scharl at the finish line. She said, “Yes.” 24

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Wildlife Marathon

Sites, Sounds from Brooksie Way

he 1962 movie “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner,” patterned after Alan Sillitoe’s book of the same name, told of a rebellious young man in a reformatory who distinguished himself by his isolated runs on the grounds, where he re-evaluated his life. More about that later. On Oct. 2 more than 5,000 runners took part in the fourth annual Brooksie Way half-marathon and 5K. Anyone who has run this course in the past knows having the DNA of a mountain goat helps to negotiate its hills. This is the first-class event you’d expect from the same team that handles Flint’s Crim Festival of Races. The registration process and packet pick-up are flawless.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

By Bill Kalmar

Concord, October 9, 2011

Marathon winners Jake Gillette and Melanie Peters

The half-marathon start was delayed about 15 minutes due to traffic jam that resulted when thousands of runners, families and friends descended on the event site, a problem many races would love to have.

Each mile was clearly marked and the enthusiasm of those handling the water stations was infectious. Lots of hand slapping and cheers. There was an even a beer station, of which few partook. Although community acceptance seems to be growing each year for the Brooksie, there were far fewer residents along the route than at, say, the Crim. At least complaints about road closures have declined, thanks to churches and stores doing a yeoman job of alerting residents beforehand. Still, as I ran the 13.1-mile route, I felt like the runner in the afore-mentioned movie. Come on, folks, come out! The Brooksie Way has provided more than $50,000 for local charities. And what better way to focus on health than participate in this event? There is a one-mile walk, a 5K run and of course the halfmarathon — something for everyone.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

The course traverses some of the most beautiful scenery in Oakland County. Runners enjoyed the bike trails and color cascading from the trees.

Alison Sklarczyk and Craig Hinshaw

Brooksie half-marathon runners-up were Dave Adler (1:17:14) and Leah Scharl (1:25:39). Third overall among the men was masters champ Rick Power (1:18:38). Former Michigan Runner Female Runner-of-theYear Krys Brish snagged the women’s masters title (1:31:08). Senior winners were Bob Horan, another former MR ROTY award recipient (1:19:54) and Donna Olson, who added to her string of fine races in 2011 (1:43:06). The finish area had live music and dancing for those whose legs had recovered, a nice food selection and blow-up rides for kids. Complete results can be found at http://gaultracemanagement.com. - MR michiganrunner.net

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

I hope to see more residents lining the route — even ringing cowbells — in future years. Doesn’t “The Exuberance and Excitement of the Long Distance Runner” sound better? I think so! - MR -

Kevin Bentley |

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Labor Day 30K and 10K, Milford

Heat, Humidity Take Toll at Milford Labor Day Events By Charles Douglas McEwen MILFORD (9/3/11) — The Labor Day 30K Run and 10K Run/Walk always offer hills. Heat and humidity were plentiful this year too, with temperatures climbing to 90 degrees.

Despite the grueling conditions, Veneziono finished more than two minutes ahead of Kelly Gries, 24, of Haslett, runner-up in 2:16:15. Next came Veronica Alatorre, 43, of Grosse Pointe Woods (2:21:34) and women’s masters champ Krys Brish, 48, of Milford (2:26:40). Matthew Folk, 35, of Perryburg, Ohio (a suburb of Toledo) won the men’s 30K in 1:44:29. “We don’t have many hills like these in Toledo,” he noted. Folk jockeyed early for the lead with Ian Forsyth of Ann Arbor. “I was with Ian until about nine (miles),” he said. “Then he hit a rough patch and told me to go ahead.

Race Director Doug Klingensmith congratulates Loganne Foster, age 9, who finished 8th female in 52:17 “It’s a good tune-up for the longer racing coming up in October.

“I threw in a couple quick miles and started feeling real good,” Folk said.

“It’s an honest course. It shows where you’re at,” he said.

Jon Gries, 25, of Haslett joined his wife, Kelly, finishing second in 1:47:57. They were followed by Shane Logan, 33, of Pontiac (1:53:24) and men’s masters champ David Chomet, 42, of Berkley (1:56:53).

Nick Stanko, 30, of Haslett, the 10K winner in 35:17, also used the word “honest” to describe the course. “It’s challenging. It keeps you honest,” Stanko said

“I was having trouble with my Achilles and calf, so I took it out conservatively,” Jon Gries said. “I passed Ian at 11, but couldn’t catch the leader.” (Forsyth eventually dropped out.) “It’s a unique distance,” Gries continued.

Chris Elsey, 25, of Milford and Andrew Porinsky, 26, of Dexter kept Stanko company early. “We were together for about three miles,” Stanko said. “Then it broke down to two of us. With 400 yards to go, I pressed it.”

Michigan Runner TV http://michiganrunner.tv/2011milford/

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

“I was happy just to win today,” she said.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Veneziano won the women’s 30K, the Road Runners Club of America regional championship and part of Michigan Runner magazine’s race series, nonetheless. Her 2:13:54 didn’t approach her 2:05:16 winning time in 2008 or 2:03:47 in 2009, when she finished third overall

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

“These are the toughest weather conditions I’ve ever run in,” said Lisa Veneziano, 46, of Fenton. “And the course is always a bear.”

Nick Stanko

Lisa Veneziano

Elsey finished six seconds behind him in 35:23. Porinsky nabbed third in 37:24. Matt Bedford, 50, of Fenton, fourth overall, topped the masters in 40:26. Denisa Costescu, 35, of Commerce won the women’s 10K for the second straight year and fourth time in the last five years in 40:43. Next came Monica Pagels, 39, of South Lyon (46:13) and Regina Friske, 26, of Milford (47:51). Julie Cauvin, 45, of Brighton paced the masters in 50:43. Michael Green, 47, of Farmington Hills averaged 21 mph through the Milford hills to edge Daniel Yonkus, 36, of Highland in the 30K bike, 53:15 to 53:16. In contrast, women’s winner Danielle Lamb, 35, of Northville easily topped runner-up Jackie Nichols, 54, of Grand Rapids, 1:07:28 to 1:11:38. “I’ve done the 30K footrace twice before, but never the bike,” Lamb said. “I knew the course layout, where the hills were. So I charged up the hills as best I could and tried to take it easy on the downhill recoveries.” For complete results, visit http://laborday30k.com. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Run for the Hills, Farmington

Run for Hills Reverses Courses, Steams Ahead By Ron Marinucci FARMINGTON (8/20/11) — “Our goal is to be your favorite race of the year,” Farmington Run for the Hills director Ed Anderson said. The event is heading the right direction. Last year’s inaugural FRH drew about 400 runners. That number jumped 30 percent to 520 this year. Pre- and post-race comments indicated more growth is in store for 2012. FRH offers 1K (changed from 1 mile in 2010), 5K and 10K races, with the latter two courses challenging. “Oh, there are some hills out there,” agegroup winner John Tarkowski, 58, said of the 10K with arched eyebrows. “Between miles three and four was the toughest part.” The 5K is less hilly, but runners will find many flatter courses. Generally, last year’s start for both courses was this year’s finish, turning a brutal early uphill into a downhill ending. The start was moved to the road. “The start was much better,” said Tarkowski. “Last year it was on grass, almost like cross country.” Anderson was glad to hear that. “I run these 5K and 10K courses all the time because I love them,” the race director said. Runners liked the weather — clear, sunny skies with temperatures in the 60s and 70s – too. It added to the all-morning festive atmosphere, which included post-race Panera bagels, Jet’s pizza and goodies from Whole Foods. Leftovers went to the COTS Shelter in downtown Detroit. The shotgun start, with a literal shotgun, was preceded by a wonderful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by Jenny Fernandez, Miss Farmington 2010. “I loved it,” said 10K age-group winner Bruce Seguin, 60, speaking of the entire event. “The weather was nice and the course was much easier than last year.” Seguin finished in 42:06, age-graded to 33:51, three minutes faster than in 2010. “I have to get faster,” he said. “Doug (Kurtis) and John (Tarkowski) will be in my age group next year.” Eric Green, last year’s 10K winner, finished runner-up even though “I ran 40 seconds faster. I was running 5:30s and then 5:20s the last two miles,” he said. But Kevin Smith, 32, pulled away to win in 33:18. Green’s 34:04 was still good for the masters title, just ahead of David Chomet, also

42, who placed third overall in 34:09. Green was not disappointed. “Last year was great,” he said. “This year was even better.” He liked that the courses were “reversed,” admitting, “There were tough hills the last two miles. But it’s a good Crim workout.” Jerry Mittman, 66, also a 10K age-group winner, liked his morning. “It’s humid, though, and a tough course. I walked part of it,” perhaps doing the latter as a tune-up for an impending week-long, 100-mile hike across the Alps with his son. Donald McLaughlin, who won the 5K in 15:28 (a 4:48/mile pace), was a first-timer here. “The course was nice and well-marked. The race went well,” he said. Eventual runner-up Ruben Maya (16:18) led the first mile. “He really rolled,” said McLaughlin. “I passed him at one mile. “Those first two miles were up and down, the third was downhill. It was a nice finish,” McLaughlin said.

perately Seeking Nemo, comprised of Joseph Kemeny, Alan Boyd, Jacob Groden, Cooper Patterson and Harrison Kenum, running in a shark outfit. Jocelyn Anderson (44:16) was the women’s 10K winner. Winners of the two longer races received running shoes for prizes. An added FRH feature was age-grading, with the top finishers in each race (Donna Olson, 61, in the 10K and Jeff Martin, 53, in the 5K) also getting shoes. The event raises funds for Special Olympics. “We were proud to give $5,000 last year,” said Anderson. Not all donations were complete, but he hoped to match that this year. Runners came from nine states, Ontario, and “as far away as the Marshall Islands — two of them! — and Udine, Italy,” he said.

Complete race results can be found at sixth vertical template_sixth vertical -8/12/11 www.farmingtonrunforthehills.com. MR - 8:17 PM Pa

Angela Matthews defended her women’s 5K title, improving her time by 17 seconds to 17:07, good for third overall. “I liked the course change,” she said. “In the first mile I was going after some guys (McLaughlin and Maya),” she continued. “When they took off, I was caught in no-man’s land. I ran a 10K last week, but I felt strong the whole way today.” Two of the running mother-daughter combos were Pam Zinkosky and Kristen Fleming (age 8) and Michelle and Sydney Hoffmeyer (9). Kristen was excited about running the 1K and receiving a medal. “I had fun,” she smiled. “I ran with my friend Delaine (Butler).” To get ready for FRH, “I was running with Mom, but I was faster than practice!” Mom Pam, the women’s masters champ in 24:07, enjoyed the 5K. “It was challenging,” she noted, “especially the second mile. It was scenic through the neighborhoods.” Sydney Hoffmeyer has run the 5K both years. “The course was eight million times better,” she said. “Mom and I trained last year, but this year we trained off and on.” Michelle, who was running her second 5K, added, “This race is a good motivator. Sydney really motivated me too!” Five teams of five entered, including Des-

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Grosse Pointe Run, Grosse Pointe Farms

Strong Winds Buffet, Don’t Break Runners at Grosse Pointe Run By Charles Douglas McEwen GROSSE POINTE FARMS (9/17/11) — The element of surprise helped Kevin Florey win the 10K at the 32nd annual Grosse Pointe Run. Alex Bieri, 34, who lives a short jog from the starting line, had established what he thought was a healthy lead by the fourth mile. “He (Florey) came like a bullet out of nowhere,” Bieri said.

Florey, 42, of Northville whipped by Bieri and opened a small gap. “He was just 10 seconds ahead of me,” Bieri said. “It was maddening because I couldn’t catch him, but I wasn’t losing ground to him either.” Florey won in 39:05, with Bieri closing to finish two seconds back. “I definitely heard his footsteps,” Florey said.

said the winner. “It was breezy, but you can’t beat this course,” said Florey. (The run starts and finishes at the Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Pier and goes up and down Lake Shore Road, which provides a spectacular view of Lake St. Clair.) Bieri set a PR with his 39:07. “In the end, he (Florey) probably pushed me to run faster,” Bieri said.

A strong north wind slowed the race a bit, Paul Zeichman, 30, of Birmingham finished third in 39:47 and James Combs, 39, of Grosse Pointe fourth in 41:12.

Michigan Runner TV http://michiganrunner.tv/2011grosse_pointe/ third square template_third square 8/11/11 10:21 AM Page 1

Amanda Vintevoghel, 24, a University of Detroit Mercy law student, was the women’s 10K champ in 43:02. Next came Susan Stapleton, 36, of Harper Woods (43:41), Kristin Perlin, 24, of New Baltimore (45:54) and Karen French, 43, of Grosse Pointe (46:07). “It’s always windy here,” said French, who has run this race several times before. The 5K featured two first-time winners. Brandon Tylus, 31, of Flushing took the men’s crown in 17:56, while Susan Bezanson, 43, who recently moved to Grosse Pointe, captured the women’s title in 23:27. “This is not only my first victory, but my first race in about a decade,” Tylus said. “I haven’t ever won before,” said Bezanson. “This 23:27 is my PR as well. I’m ecstatic!” The wind surprised Tylus. “I rounded a corner and it was like, ‘Oh man!’” he said. “The course is flat and fast, though.” Trailing Tylus were John Olszewski, 37, of Macomb (19:07), Nas Dastmaichi, 54, of Novi (20:37) and Conor Sickmiller, 13, of Grosse Pointe (20:40). Grosse Pointe residents Page Cassidy, 9, finished second in 24:26, Stephanie Stallings, 40, third in 24:47 and Jenny Fruehauf, 37, fourth in 25:02. Rick and Shelly Huber of Montrose won the 5K walk in 27:43 and 33:38, respectively. The event is organized by the Grosse Pointe Sunrise Rotary Club. For complete results, go to http://gaultracemanagement.com. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Red October Run, Wayne

Red October Run Sets Turnout, Volume Marks By Charles Douglas McEwen “A lot people participate, help and volunteer here because of Cindy. She’s a runner and knows what makes a great race. She’s phenomenal,” Zatina said.

Sprunger, 26, of Westland, ran fast on a windy morning to win the 5K at this 21st annual event in 17:05. “It was a beautiful day,” said Sprunger, who didn’t seem bothered by the cool, blustery conditions. “And (Oakwood) Annapolis Hospital does a great job putting this race on.”

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

WAYNE (10/1/11) — Josh Sprunger lived up to his t-shirt, which said “I can do all things …,” at the Oakwood Red October Run.

Rick and Shelly Huber, 55 and 51 respectively, of Montrose won the competitive walk in 28:11 and 33:58.

For complete race results, go to http://gaultracemenagement.com. For more information about Red October, visit http://oakwood.org/redoctoberrun. RunRed LikeOctober. the Dickens 2011_Run Like - MR - the Dickens 10/8/ 5K start includes Kevin Sherwood, wearing bib no. 21 for his 21st

The wind did effect Cortney Kosmala-Jackson, 31, of Southfield, who won the women’s 5K in 20:26. “It took some adjusting,” she said. “I haven’t done a race since January and it’s been a couple years since I’ve run a 5K,” added Kosmala-Jackson, who came close to her PR of 19:44 nonetheless. “So I’m happy with it.” Jason Richmond, 29, of Redford (37:13) and Emily VanAllen, 27, of Dearborn (40:48) were the 10K winners. “The wind really slowed things down in the middle,” Richmond said. “Then the last two miles finished quick. I had enough left to kick it in.” The course itself kept things moving despite the wind, said VanAllen. “It’s flat and fast. Every turn is well-marked,” she said. The runs had their best turnout ever with 1,286 participants. And perhaps their loudest. Race director Cynthia Cook handed out cowbells to volunteers beforehand. “We asked marshals and others on the course to cheer runners on in sort of an Olympic fashion,” Cook said. “We had functioning cowbells customized as medals (with neck ribbons and all) in several sizes for our winners. “Our six overall winners received beauti-

ful Moen bells from Norway, produced from spent-ammunition shells, I believe,” she continued. “I hope bells on the course become a tradition.” The turnout thrilled Cook, who has directed the Red October Run since its inception.

Sat, December 10 9:00 am 10K Run • 5K Run • 5K Walk • Tiny Tim Trot

“I was so pleased to see Harrison Hensley register for the 5K,” Cook continued. “I asked Anne and John Gault (of Gault Race Management) to change the bib numbering system for us, so that low numbers were assigned to the 5K instead of the 10K runners. “That way I could assign No. 1 to Harrison and also accommodate Kevin Sherwood (aka Captain America), who had requested No. 21 for his 21st Red October Run.” Entrants ranged from Junior October Mile children’s runners to Sister Beth Wood, 82, of Detroit, who won her 80-and-older age group. “We had a lot of parents run with their kids, which is what our Youth and Family Fitness Initiative is all about,” Cook said. Mary Zatina, Oakwood Healthcare Inc. senior vice president, ran the 5K and has been impressed by Cook’s efforts. “Cindy has run this race with exceptional skill and passion for 21 years,” said Zatina. “She has made it better each year. michiganrunner.net

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Sylvania Triathlon / Duathlon

Colorful Swimmer

Shawn Aker, 3rd sprint distance

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Sylvania,Ohio, August 14, 2011

Alex Russeau Olympic distance winner

Triathletes gather on the beach before the race swim leg.

Mitchell’s Run Through Rockford

2,000 Mitchell’s Runners Fight Duchenne MD By Scott Sullivan

The race was named after Mitchell Peterson, 15, of Rockford, who was diagnosed in 1999 with the ailment. Throngs started on the Bridge Street bridge, looped through downtown, then along the Rogue River on White Pine Trail, finishing on historic Squires Street. Kids for Kids Fun Runs took youngsters ages two through 10 distances ranging from 200 yards to one kilometer. The men’s overall winner was Alex Wilson, 19, of Kent City in 15:14. Two more 19-yearolds, both from Belmont, followed: Drake Veitenheimer in 15:20 and Spencer Gerber in 15:33.

Photo by Scott Sullivan

ROCKFORD (8/20//11) — The 13th annual Mitchell’s Run Thru Rockford 5K drew 2,000 entrants and raised close to $70,000 for Parent Project MD, a nonprofit dedicated to research and finding a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Jennifer Adams, 28, of Hudsonville paced the women in 17:31. Next came Devan John, 19, of Allendale in 18:17 and Taylor Manett, 16, of Rockford in 18:24. Pacing the masters were Kenneth Flannery, 51, of Williamsburg in 18:04 and Laura

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Cooper, 50, of Kent City in 19:35. Complete results are available at www.classicrace.com. For more about Mitchell’s Run, visit www.mitchellsrun.org. - MR -

Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak

Peters Leads 2,750+ Running Wild for Zoo

Stripes & Tails

Melanie Peters

Gavin Smith, 34, of Northville bested Billy Van Vanen, 30, of Canton for the men’s 10K crown, 35:09 to 35:19.

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

By Charles Douglas McEwen

Gavin Smith

Smith took the lead “just before the fivemile mark going up a hill,” he said. “I felt strong and was pushing hard for the second half of the race.” In another close race, Eric Sayers, 40, of Utica (19:03) finished one second ahead of Terry Moller, 48, of Waterford for the masters 5K title. Wayne Dutton, 40, of Trenton (40:17) topped Leigh Chapple, 41, of Brights Cove, Ontario (40:58) for men’s 10K honors.

David Hamway

HUNTINGTON WOODS (9/18/11) — Melanie Peters won both the 5K and 10K by more than a minute at Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo, which drew more than 2,750 runners and walkers.

Antoniou didn’t even try to catch Peters in the 5K. “I watched her pull away throughout the whole race,” the runner-up said. “She’s elite level, so I know I can’t keep up with her. She looked strong with those big thighs of hers.”

Peters, 28, of White Lake started by claiming the 5K in 18:06. Paula Antoniou, 38, of Lake Orion, the 2009 champ and runner-up last year, finished second again with a 19:08 PR.

Rizer led the 10K for two miles before Peters took over. “I knew she was going to win,” Rizer said. “I was just waiting for her to pass me. But I did try to stay with her for a while.”

“This may be the fastest 5K course I’ve seen,” said Peters. “Next year I’ll try to focus on racing it really hard to see what kind of time I get. Today, I tried to leave something in reserve for the 10K.”

Mary Keener, 50, of Ferndale (23:09) edged Donna Olson, 61, of Southgate (23:10) for the 5K women’s masters title., Molly Angel, 43, of Washington Township (45:48) topped Erin Kelly, 45, of Royal Oak (45:57) in the 10K.

About 20 minutes after crossing the 5K finish line, Peters moved on to the 10K, where she clocked 38:43. Her closest rival, Tracy Rizer, 39, of Sterling Heights, timed 41:55.

David Hamway, 40, of Birmingham beat Edward Labair, 51, of Unionville by a split second in the men’s overall 5K. Both timed 17:34.

The sunny, cool morning seemed ideal for racing, but Peters, a former University of Miami star who prefers Florida’s warmer weather, said Run Wild gave her the chills.

”We ran together the whole way,” Hamway said. “He pulled away from me around mile five and killed me on the hills. But I passed him with 30 meters to go.”

“In between races I went in my car and turned the heat on full blast,” she said. “Then I got out and ran the 10K.”

“If I’d known he was coming, I think I could have held him off,” Labair said. “I was basically shutting it down” (when Hamway passed him).

Event proceeds benefited the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex and veterinary care for the zoo’s animals. For complete results, visit http://race-services.com . - MR - 2/6/11 9:52 PM Page 1 MRSub0311_Sixth Vertical

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Witch’s Hat, South Lyon

Fall Fest Frolic, New Boston

Fall Fest Frolickers Find Ways Fine By Charles Douglas McEwen NEW BOSTON (10/2/11) — Directors changed the Fall Fest Frolic’s name (from the Huron Township Applefest Run) and starting line, but runners had no trouble recognizing or finding it.

SOUTH LYON (9/10/11) — Running in wicked weather, David Burkhart and Laurel Park won the 20th annual Witch’s Hat 5K while Joshua Perrin and Caitlin Millis triumphed in the 10K.

Malcomson had originally planned to at least start the race with her sister, Noel, 17, who took third in her age group in 31:00. “We were supposed to go out together,” said Noel. “But Lana is way faster than me. She just sprinted off.” Matt Robin, 28, who grew up in New Boston and now lives in Rockwood, won the men’s 5K in 16:53, beating his winning time from last year by 47 seconds. “This was my fastest time in over a year,” he said. He was followed by Tyler Hamilton, 16, of Trenton (17:42) and Keith Erichsen, 13, of Farmington Hills (17:55). Anthony Lopetrone, 60, of Birmingham (20:48) and Leslie Bodnar, 40, of Trenton (23:32) led the masters runners. Mark Purcell, 52, of Lincoln Park (21:00) and Deanna Blessing, 51, of Allen Park (23:58) topped the grand masters. Senior titles went to Mike Unger, 61, of Dearborn (21:40) and Kathie Hammett, 66, of Wyandotte (56:47).

With most of the first four miles on dirt roads and the final two miles on the Huron Valley Trail, the 10K forced runners to negotiate a muddy, slick, puddle-strewn course.

Matt Robin

Claudio Salas

Lean, long-legged and fast, Malcomson had two women right behind her after the two-mile mark, then tore up the last mile to win in 21:34. Next came Christina Ortega, 33, of Carleton (21:51) and Brandy Smid, 24, of Madison Heights (22:11).

Some 519 registered runners endured pouring rain throughout both events. “I’d rather run when it’s sunny and there’s no humidity,” said Perrin, 25, of Ann Arbor, winner last year in 31:25 and this year in 32:46. “But I’ll take this. I went out hard and faded quite a bit at the end,” he said.

Photo by Charles Douglas McEwen

Flat Rock native Lana Malcomson, 19, did her part. Running her first race ever, she showed a powerful kick in winning the women’s 5K.

By Charles Douglas McEwen

Photo by Charles Douglas McEwen

The Frolic, held at Lower Huron Metropark, had 339 participants, just 19 shy of last year’s record. And the cool, calm, sunny morning offered ideal weather to run fast times.

Witch’s Hat Celebrates 20 Years

Millis, 17, thrived. “It was awesome!” the South Lyon High School student said. Millis first ran the Witch’s Hat kids fun run nearly a decade ago and has run grown-ups races since. She won this year’s women’s 10K in 45:42. “I really surprised myself,” she said.

Masters Claudio Salas, 41, of Allen Park and Laura Maslar, 54, of Grosse Ille paced the men and women in the 10K.

The top masters 10K finishers were Kurt Lenser, 53, of Northville (38:58) and Donna Olson, 61, of Southgate (46:42).

Salas clocked 35:21, topping another masters runner, Tom Yates, 50, of New Boston (35:57) and last year’s winner, Aaron AlSorghali, 25, of Toledo (36:19).

Masters dominated the 5K, as Burkhart, 57, of Brighton (17:47) and Park, 48, of Ann Arbor (18:52) led the way. Burkhart, who has run Witch’s Hat several times but never won before, led the entire way. “I was surprised when I got into the subdivisions and nobody was with me,” he said.

Maslar, who timed 42:53, was trailed by Andrea Hoffman, 21, of Monroe (44:23) and Suzanne Bessette, 34, of Ann Arbor (44:46). Maslar’s coach, Tim Laporte, 64, of Trenton shadowed her during the race, finishing 23 seconds behind her. “Laura was steady all the way,” Laporte said. “I tried to stay as close as I could. But she was too fast for me today.” With Salas and Maslar winning the overall titles, the 10K masters champs were Yates and Beth Gilday, 50, of Woodhaven (47:50). The top grand masters were Robert Hermann, 55, of Rockwood (42:11) and Kathleen Spillane, 54, of Chelsea (49:01). Senior champs were Doug Soliz, 61, of Allen Park (43:01) and Collie Hooper-Yan, 64, of Grosse Ile (1:02:55). Greg Everal was race director. For complete results, go to http://everalracemgt.com. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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All event profits support South Lyon and South Lyon East high schools boys and girls cross country programs. Race director Scott Smith is the boys head coach at both schools. Smith and Park were South Lyon teammates some 30 years ago. Park estimates she has run the Witch’s Hat 5K 19 times, winning 18 times. Coming back from an injury, she wasn’t thrilled to run in a downpour. “You have to be careful where you step,” she said. With Burkhart and Park winning the overall, Brad Armstrong, 48, of Northville (19:10) and Anne Symanzik, 45, of South Lyon (21:39) became the masters champs. For complete results, go to http://raceservices.com. - MR -

Red Carpet Run, West Bloomfield

Red Carpet Runners Dress for (and Find) Success By Heather Dyc strapped dress, similar to Tinker Bell.

WEST BLOOMFIELD (8/11/11) -- Who says runners can’t be fashionable? Not Anna Step, 23, of Ann Arbor, deemed the “brains” behind the Red Carpet Run by her father, Running Fit’s Randy Step.

Entrants were encouraged to dress to impress while racing. They warmed up in dresses, suits, ties, costumes of all sorts and full makeup to sport their look while race officials and fans shouted, “Who are you wearing?” Trevor Step, 26, of Ann Arbor, dressed in a sleek-looking blazer, was the male winner with a time of 16:22. The Ann Arbor Running Fit store manager, who was aiming for a sub16:30, passed his assistant manager, Chris Samborn, who led for the first mile.

If running in a dress isn’t reason enough to race the Red Carpet, there’s always the perfect weather that seems to find it. “I think Randy has a phone line to God,” said photographer Greg Sadler, who shoots the event each year, “because the weather is always perfect.”

Photo by Greg Sadler / Greg Sadler Photography

Anna, who studied fashion at Eastern Michigan University, said the thought of a glamorous 5K came to her at dinner one night when Randy asked if she had any good ideas for a race. Now, five years later, the Red Carpet Run has grown into a stylish night attracting close to 300 runners.

Although he confessed that a friend bought the dress for him, he said he would run the race again. “It was a surprisingly natural feeling,” Degotis stated, referring to running in a dress.

Morgan Hoeffel of Goodrich celebrated her 16th birthday by running the Red Carpet as her first 5K. Hoeffel, an avid swimmer who dressed like a celebrity in sparkles and a crown, was supported by mom Robin Hoeffel. The two enjoy tag teaming at triathlons and pledged to come back for the Red Carpet Run next year. “I’ll encourage my staff to do it,” said Robin, manager of the Ortonville Anytime Fitness Center.

Matt Boucher, Farmington Hills, Jane Brewer, Farmington Hills, and Denise Elowsky, East Tawas appear on the red carpet.

Claire Ford, 14, of Huntington Woods passed Meghan Horgan right before the finish for the women’s title.

male finisher in a dress. Degotis, who referred to himself as “Roberta,” sported a green, spaghetti-

Bob Degotis, 46, of Ann Arbor was the first

Designed as a break from the pressures of everyday summer training, the Red Carpet Run is an energetic, fun-filled evening where classy and goofy costumes meet hard work and dedicated training. For more information and race results, visit http://redcarpetrun.com. - MR -

Playmakers Autumn Classic

Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Haslett, Sept. 25, 2011

Griffin Doran & Paul Schmidt, age 10, each finished the 8K in 38:17.

Emily Johnston 8K winner michiganrunner.net

Christopher Stoddard, Jake Crowe, eventual winner Nicholas Katsefaras and Kyle Johnson are lead pack in 8K. |

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Harvest Stompede, Leelanau Peninsula

Drink Deep of Harvest Stompede Wines, Views By Tom Henderson LEELANAU PENINSULA (9/10/11) — Damn! Look at that view! Ohmigod! We must, based on the accolades, be at Ciccone’s Vineyard, gearing up for the start of the Harvest Stompede. One dumbfounded young guy and his equally dumbfounded wife were overheard talking to a fellow runner, standing on top of the highest terrain for miles around in the backyard of the Ciccone’s wine tasting room, surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery this side of the north rim of the Grand Canyon.

thought all of Michigan was flat, boring, touch of ugly. It’s his first time up north. Damn! Look at that! Ohmigod! This was my ninth Stompede — I’ve only missed it once, and for good reason, being out hiking and running in Glacier National Park and then up in Banff, British Columbia — and every year I am shocked by how stunning the view is from Silvio Ciccone’s backyard. He’s Madonna’s dad, and this is one spot where the singer herself, if she showed up on race day, would go unnoticed. Like our new-to-Michigan auto engineer, everyone is too busy staring at the view.

Truly, without exaggeration. To the north and west, acres of vines laden with clumps of grapes ready for harvest roll down and off to the distance. To the east are expansive views of the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay, glistening blindingly as the sun rises through a cobalt sky.

If there’s one thing that matches the beauty of the starting and finishing area, it’s the coolness of the two courses. And a second thing: How freaking tough they are. The 5K is a relentless series of steep ups and downs through Ciccone’s Vineyard and the neighboring Mawby Vineyard. It is as tough as they come. So this young guy is talking to his The seven-miler has as many tough new friend and he’s pretty shell-shocked. hills, or more, but they’re interspersed He is new to the state, he explains, came with relative flat stretches of trails conhere for a job in the auto industry, lives necting inEvent a suburb of Detroit, close to work, Directors 0311_Third Square 2/6/11 10:39 PM Pageto 1 and from Black Star Farms.

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Only three runners broke 20 minutes in the 5K, which will give you an idea how tough it is. And only five broke 22. Ken Flannery of Williamsburg was third, disappointing for him despite being 51. He’s won this race a handful of times and had hopes of winning again this year. “But some kid from Manton got me. I gotta keep an eye out for him,” he said later. The kid was Thomas King, 25, who clocked 18:09, with another veteran star of the north, Kevin Deyo of Traverse City, 52, finishing in 18:47, 53 seconds up on Flannery. Michelle Verellen, 21, of Livonia was first woman and seventh overall in 22:03, with Kersten Westdorn, 22, of Cadillac one place back in 22:16.

Ron Zywicki, 50, of Traverse City was first, in 41:45, with Darnell Trevor, 37, of Rapid City second in 43:22 and Jason Johnson, 37, of Traverse City third in 44:45.

runningnetwork.com/RNW/index.php/national-calendar then follow link in the right column: “Click here”

This year, the event filled its quota a week in advance, with 270 in the 5K run, another 200 or so in the 5K walk and 250 in the seven-mile run.

There’s something about the seven-mile course, both the distance and terrain, that seems to lend itself to veterans kicking the kids’ butts. The top 16 finishers were 33 or over, including five 50 year olds and three in their 40s.

and

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Both races start and finish in a clearing just before rows of grapes. There’s a long, steep downhill to start, which means a lung-breaking ascent to the finish, where a pit of grapes awaits those runners not too anal to enjoy a jumping in, which is, after all, what gives the Stompede its name.

Laura Wolfgram, 45, of Elk Rapids was first master, in 23:22.

Race Directors:

http://tiny.cc/z5giu

Nearly every year, whether it’s been a coincidence or a midSeptember weather pattern, race day has been perfectly clear, bright sun, deep blue sky, warm but not hot. Last year was an exception, but even then the downpours of early morning stopped in time for the races.

Jessica Tecca, 27, of Lansing was 17th overall and first woman in 54:51, with Katherine Brege, 36, of Traverse City second in 55:07 and Martha Ahluwalla, 49, of Traverse City third and first women’s master in 57:23. Post-race goodies included fresh-picked grapes, cookies and bagels. And plenty of more post-race goodies for those smart enough to sign up for the wine- and food-tasting option that was part of the weekend’s activities. Those who did got to visit 18 wineries on the peninsula over the weekend, each pairing a wine with an hors d’ouevres. Not to mention tasting nearly endless amounts of the rest of their wines, too. I recommend taking a kayak each day of the weekend with you and breaking up the drinking with a nice paddle in the sun to get you sober again. - MR -

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Kade Wirth & Rebecca Tabone 1 Mile Paige McGahan 10K Winner

Eric Stuber, 10K Winner © Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

100 mile winner Jonathan Hastings collects his trophy.

Nina Kelly 1st & Rachel Nelson 1 Mile

Sonia Leung half marathon

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Photo by Carter Sherline / Frog Prince Studios

Run Woodstock

Pinckney, September 9, 10,11, 2011

David Krueger marathon

Josh Partridge, 5K Winner

Julia Demko, 5K Winner

Kelly Walker and Harlan VanBlaricum take a hill during the 5 mile race.

Melon Run

Howell, August 19, 2011

Melon Roll

10K Start

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

T-Rex Triathlon, Brighton

Rivamonte, Robert Roar to Wins in T-Rex Tri By Charles Douglas McEwen

Rivamonte, 20, of Commerce Township stayed consistent throughout the series, timing 1:00:06 in the Triceratops Tri, 1:01:25 in the Pterodactyl Tri and 1:01:15 in the T-Rex Tri, giving him a cumulative time of 3:02:47. For his win in the T-Rex Tri, Rivamonte received a big tyrannosaur head. For winning the series, he was awarded a bigger tyrannosaur, which was more full-bodied although not full-sized. (T-rexes were 40 feet long and lived 70 million years ago.)

ahead of not only all the women but all the men. Phillips powered by her in the 12-mile bike, opening a lead of more than a minute going into the 5K run. But Robert passed her at the two-mile mark and continued to victory.

Photo by Charles Douglas McEwen

BRIGHTON (8/17/11) — Ryan Rivamonte completed his sweep of Running Fit’s threerace T-Rex Triathlon Series at Island Lake Recreation Area by winning its namesake race.

“I’ve been training a lot and it’s paying off,” said Robert, who won the Pterodactyl Tri July 20 but was only seventh in the Triceratops June 15. (All three races take place on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.) Improvement on the bike furnished Robert a key to the winner’s circle. “Everyone used to pass me on the bike,” she said. “Since last year, I’ve been biking a lot more and really see the difference in my splits.”

Ryan Rivamonte swept the three-race T-Rex Triathlon series.

“That was one of the motivating factors for me doing this series,” Rivamonte said. “I love the creativity of the awards that they give.”

Robert timed 1:09:57, followed by Phillips in 1:11:34 and Cristina Noble, 37, of Brighton in 1:12:00. Next came Karen Perzyk, 43, of West Bloomfield (1:13:20) and Leslie Braun, 49, of Grand Blanc (1:13:50).

Jon Bennett, 42, of Royal Oak took third in the race in 1:04:24, followed by Benjamin Stuart, 34, of Midland in 1:04:54. Dave Furey, 53, of Sterling Heights was fifth (1:05:24) and third overall in the series with a cumulative time of 3:17:49.

With his second (in 1:02:31) in the T-Rex Tri, Roman Krzyzanowski, 40, of Plymouth clinched second in the series with a cumulative time of 3:09:46. Krzyzanowski has competed in all 10 T-Rex Triathlons, often encountering Rivamonte in so doing. “Ryan has always looked very good,” Krzyzanowski said. “I saw him in the distance today but couldn’t reel him in. He’s fast.”

The women’s triathlon featured a battle between Chrissy Robert, 30, of Ann Arbor and Anne Marie Phillips, 50, of Northville.

Noble, who won the Triceratops Tri, edged Robert and Phillips for the series title with a cumulative time of 3:32:59. Robert was runner-up in 3:33:31 and Phillips third in 3:37:59.

In the half-mile swim, Robert, a former collegiate swimmer, came out of the water

For complete race results, go to http://runtrextri.com. - MR -

St. Mary Mercy Hospital 5K Run/Walk for Cancer

Vincent Jesudowich 5K Winner 38

Nicole Ozimek 5K Winner

Livonia, September 11, 2011

It’s thumbs up for Craig Rizzolo, 2nd AG & Andrew Stratton, 1st AG.

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Kimberly Sage, Jennifer Lessway, Julie Harden and Erin Hart near 5K finish.

Heart of Detroit

Greta Wengenroth, Jamie Justin & Daisuke Akiba finish the 10K on the warning track.

Comerica Park, August 6, 2011

Angela Matthews, 5K Winner

Matt Fecht, 10K Winner

Running the Rails

Ypsilanti, August 21, 2011

Joe Maki 10K winner

Michigan Runner TV http://michiganrunner.tv/2011runwild/ Erin O’Mara 5K winner

5K runners round a curve near the start of Running the Rails. michiganrunner.net

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

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November - December Event Calendar Date

Event

See past issues of Michigan Runner online: http://issuu.com/michiganrunner/docs/ Distance City Phone

Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11

Bell’s Beer Iceman Cometh Challenge 27MB d’Ear Lake Lansing North 10K Trail Race 10KR,5KW Livonia Turkey Trot 5KR/W

Kalkaska Haslett Livonia

(231) 922-5926 (517) 655-9698 (734) 466-2411

Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11

Meaningful Moments 5K 5KR/W Michigan HS Cross Country L.P. Finals 5KR Mio Baseball Fall Fun Run 5KR/W

Lansing Brooklyn Mio

(517) 975-9900 (517) 332-5046 (989) 826-2420

Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11

Muskegon Turkey Trot 5K Trail Run NCAA DII X-C Midwest Regionals Outrun Hunger

5KR 8KR, 6KR 5KR/W, 1MFR

Muskegon (231) 894-9693 Big Rapids (231) 591-2860 Commerce Twp (248) 887-3700

Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11 Sat, 11/5/11

Randy’s Race SCVMP Veterans Day 5K Run/Walk St. Clair River Turkey Trot

10 MR, 4MR, 1M Kids 5KR/W 5KR

Monclova, OH Saginaw St. Clair

(419) 356-0703 (989) 529-7592 (586) 986-1085

Sun, 11/6/11

Carrollton Marathon & Half Marathon

26.2MR, 13.1MR, relay

Carrollton

(989) 399-8860

Sun, 11/6/11 Highland Rugged Man Sun, 11/6/11 ING New York City Marathon

5MR, 2MW 26.2 MR

Highland New York City

(248) 320-9102 (212) 423.2249

Sun, 11/6/11 Life Time Fitness Indoor Triathlon Sun, 11/6/11 Margaret Peruski Memorial Run Sun, 11/6/11 Poured Out Fall Back 5K

tri: 10minS/ 30minB/ 20minR Commerce Twp (248) 960-0955 4 MR Cross Country Style Dearborn (248) 544-9099 5KR/W, 1MFW New Baltimore (586) 713-6326

Sun, 11/6/11 Bloomer Boogie Sun, 11/6/11 Turkey Trot Cross Country Run Sat, 11/12/11 ANG Road Hawg Classic

5MR/W, 5KR/W, 1KFR 6KR X-C 10KR, 5KR/W

Rochester Hills Mt Pleasant Battle Creek

(248) 651-6267 (989) 772-0323 (269) 969-3441

Sat, 11/12/11 Don Dansereau Memorial Fall Race Sat, 11/12/11 Fall into Fitness 5K Race Sat, 11/12/11 Hoffmaster Trail Run

5KR/W 5KR/W, 1MR/W 4.3MR

Bay City Adrian Norton Shores

(989) 553-6656 (517) 265-8544 (232) 855-1282

Sat, 11/12/11 Michigan Fallen Warrior Memorial 5K Sat, 11/12/11 Mid-Land Half / 10K/ 5K Sat, 11/12/11 Mid-Land Half Marathon / 10K/ 5K

5KR/W 13.1MR, 10KR, 5KR 13.1MR, 10KR, 5KR

Wyoming Midland Midland

(616) 249-2724 (989) 289-2361 (989) 317-5889

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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Ad Reference

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November - December Event Calendar Date

Event

See past issues of Michigan Runner online: http://issuu.com/michiganrunner/docs/ Distance City Phone

Sat, 11/12/11 NCAA DI X-C Regionals - Great Lakes 10KR, 6KR Sat, 11/12/11 NCAA DIII X-C Regionals - Great Lakes 8KR, 6KR Sat, 11/12/11 NJCAA Championship Meet 8KR, 5KR

Toledo, OH Oberlin, OH Hobbs, NM

(419) 530-4925 (440) 775-8525 (864) 587-4237 (419) 699-3364

Sat, 11/12/11 Ohio/Michigan 5K

5KR

Walbridge, OH

Sat, 11/12/11 Original Ann Arbor Turkey Trot

10KR/W, 5KR/W, kids run

Dexter

(734) 213-1033

Sat, 11/12/11 Panther Fall Classic

5KR

Comstock Park

(616) 785-7880

Sat, 11/12/11 Paradise Bound 5K Sat, 11/12/11 Scarecrow Sprint XC Race Sat, 11/12/11 The Alternate Half/ 10K / 5K

5KR/W 5KR 13.1MR, 10KR, 5KR

Allendale Fremont, OH Midland

(616) 340-2451 (419) 334-5906 (989) 317-5889

Sat, 11/12/11 Turkey Trail Trot 5K Run/Walk Sat, 11/12/11 Turkey Trot Sat, 11/12/11 Turkey Trot 5K Run / Walk

5KR/W 5KR, 2KW 5KR/W, kids fun run

Middleville Oxford SS Marie, MI

(269) 795-5535 (248) 628-1720 (906) 322-6314

Sat, 11/12/11 Turkey Trot and Mutt Strut 10KR, 5KR/W, 1MR/W Sat, 11/12/11 Woldumar Nature Center Run-a-Munk 13.1MR, 10KR/W, 5KR/W Sun, 11/13/11 Hogsback Trail Run 5MR, 2MR

Central Lake Lansing Elba

(231) 544-6069 (517) 927-8955 (810) 287-7835

Sun, 11/13/11 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis Sun, 11/13/11 Roseville Big Bird Run

5KR/W, 1/4M kids run 10KR, 1MR/W, 4KR

Portage Roseville

(248) 649-2891 (586) 445-5480

Sun, 11/13/11 The Burg Trail Run

10KR, 5KR/W

Laingsburg

(517) 285-6487

Tue, 11/15/11 Wayne County Lightfest 8K Fri, 11/18/11 Silver Bells Fun Run Fri, 11/18/11 Yule Run, I’ll Walk 5K

8KR/W 2.5MR 5KR/W

Westland Lansing Grand Rapids

(734) 261-1990 (517) 487-3322 (616) 233-3564

Sat, 11/19/11 Blitzen the Dotte Sat, 11/19/11 East Kentwood HS Turkey Trot

5KR/W 5KR/W, 2.5KR/W

Wyandotte Kentwood

(734) 365-4213 (616) 291-3903

Sat, 11/19/11 Grand Finale 5K and Team Invitational

5KR, 5K/8K team

Lansing

(517) 755-8440

Sat, 11/19/11 Grand Valley Turkey Trot 5K Sat, 11/19/11 Hurley Health & Fitness Indoor Tri

5KR 20minS/ 20minB/ 20minR

Allendale Flint

(616) 346-8740 (810) 262-2200

Sat, 11/19/11 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

10KR, 5KR, 1/4M kids run

Bloomfield Hills (248) 269-2895

Sat, 11/19/11 NCAA DII X-C Championships Sat, 11/19/11 NCAA DIII X-C Championships Sat, 11/19/11 One Hill of a Run

10KR, 6KR 8KR, 6KR 10KR, 5KR

Spokane, WA (812) 237-4040 Winneconne, WI (920) 582-7585 Grand Rapids (616) 260-2669

Sat, 11/19/11 Pat Kellerman Memorial Turkey Trot 5KR/W Sat, 11/19/11 USATF Region 5 JO XC Championships 5KR, 4KR, 3KR Sat, 11/19/11 WMU Turkey Trot 5KR

Bad Axe Northville Kalamazoo

Sun, 11/20/11 Life Time Fitness Indoor Triathlon Sun, 11/20/11 New Balance Girls on the Run 5K Mon 11/21/11 NCAA DI X-C Championships

10minS/ 30minB/ 20minR 5KR/W 10KR, 6KR

Troy (248) 267-1000 Ypsilanti (734) 712-5640 Terre Haute, IN (812) 237-4040

Mon 11/21/11 SMC Turkey Trot Thu 11/24/11 YMCA Thanksgiving Day Run

5KR, 3KR 10KR, 5KR/W, 1MFR

Dowagiac Niles

(269)782-1209 (269) 683-1552

Thu 11/24/11 Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

5KR/W

Ann Arbor

(248) 446-1315

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

November - December Event Calendar Date

Event

See past issues of Michigan Runner online: http://issuu.com/michiganrunner/docs/ Distance City Phone/Web

Thu 11/24/11 Boyne City Turkey Trot Thu 11/24/11 Chris Voiers Memorial Run/Walk Thu 11/24/11 Dorks Brothers Turkey Trot

5KFR,1MFR 4MR, 1MR, 1/4MR 5KR, 1MR

Boyne City (231) 582-3416 Mount Clemens (586) 615-3885 Alpena (989) 354-7314

Thu 11/24/11 53 Bank Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

10KR, 5KR, 1MR

Detroit

Thu, 11/24/11 Galloping Gobbler 4 Miler Thu, 11/24/11 Gobble Wobble

4MR, 2MW 4MR, 1MR

Fort Wayne, IN (260) 436-4824 E Grand Rapids (616) 940-9888

Thu 11/24/11 KAR Turkey Trot Prediction Run Thu 11/24/11 Lansing Turkeyman Trot

5KR 5KR

Kalamazoo Lansing

(269) 679-2351 (517) 702-0226

Thu 11/24/11 Smoke the Turkey 5K

5KR

Sylvania, OH

(419) 841-5597

Thu 11/24/11 The ANTI-Turkey Trot Thu 11/24/11 Turkey Trot for a Cause Thu 11/24/11 Turkey Trot for Charities

10MR, 10KR, 5KR/W 5KR/W, kids run 5MR, 5KR/W, kids run

Shelby Twp. Canton Traverse City

(586) 532-1300 (734) 483-5600 (231) 645-8184

Fri, 11/25/11 Fantasy 5K Fri, 11/25/11 Santa Parade Run Sat, 11/26/11 Gobbler Gallop

5KR 2MR 4MR/W, 2MR/W

Howell Alpena Milford

(517) 546-3020 (989) 354-7314 (248) 320-8167

Sat, 11/26/11 Holiday Hustle Sat, 11/26/11 The Downtown Mile Sun, 11/27/11 Hansons Group Run

5KR, 1.5MFW 1 MR training

Maumee, OH Fremont, OH Lake Orion

(419) 360-3709 (419) 334-5906 (248) 693-9900

Thu, 12/1/11 Run Through the Lights Sat, 12/3/11 ChoiceOne Bank St Nick Kick Run Sat, 12/3/11 December Chill Adventure Race

5KR 10KR, 5KR/W 7 hr adventure

Kalamazoo Newaygo Milford

(269) 342-5996 (231) 652-3068 (231) 233-4736

Sat, 12/3/11 Sat, 12/3/11

Dickens of a Run Holiday Fun Run

5KR 5KR, kids run

Mt Pleasant Orion

(989) 772-0323 (248) 393-3085

Sat, 12/3/11

Holiday Hustle

5KR, 1MR

Dexter

(734) 929-9027

Sat, 12/3/11 Sat, 12/3/11

Hot Chocolate 5K Jingle Bell Fun Run / Walk

l5KR 5KR, 2KR

Kalamazoo Port Huron

(269) 491-2663 (810) 987-6400

Sat, 12/3/11

Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

5KRW, 1/4M kids run

Northville

(248) 269-2895

Sat, 12/3/11 Sat, 12/3/11 Sat, 12/3/11

Jinglejog 5K Night Run Manistee Jingle Bell Run 5K Reese Winter Road Race Series

5KR 5KR/W 10KR, 5KR/W

Fenton Manistee Reese

(810) 714-2011 (231) 233-1433 (989) 529-7904

Sat, 12/3/11

YMCA Santa Run

(313) 247-4149

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5KR/W, 1MW

Flint

(810) 232-9622

Sat, 12/10/11 Candy Cane Run

6MR, 3MR, 1.5 MR

Grand Rapids

(616) 459-5085

Sat, 12/10/11 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

5KR/W, 1/4M kids run

Grand Rapids

(248) 269-2895

Sat, 12/10/11 Jingle Belle Women’s 5K

5KR/W

Lansing

(517) 490-2578

Sat, 12/10/11 Run Like The Dickens & Tiny Tim Trot

10KR, 5KR/W, Tiny Tim Trot Holly

(248) 328-3200

Sat, 12/10/11 USATF Nat’l Club X-C Championships

10KR, 6KR

Seattle,WA

(206) 419-0140

Sat, 12/10/11 USATF Nat’l JO X-C Championships Sun, 12/11/11 Anchor Bay Jingle Bell Run Sun, 12/11/11 Reindeer Run / Triathlon

5KR, 3KR 5KR, 1MFW 15minS/ 15minB/ 15minR

Myrtle Beach, SC (843) 918-2305 New Baltimore jinglebellrun.com Monroe (734) 241-2606

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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November - December Event Calendar Date

Event

See past issues of Michigan Runner online: http://issuu.com/michiganrunner/docs/ Distance City Phone

Tue, 12/13/11 Grosse Pointe Christmas Light Run Sat, 12/17/11 B A R C Christmas 5K Sat, 12/17/11 GVSU All-Comers Indoor Two Mile

6MR 5KR/W 2MR

Grosse Pointe Bay City Allendale

(248) 616-9665 (989) 832-2267 (616) 331-3360

Sat, 12/17/11 HUFF 50K Trail Run Sat, 12/17/11 Lifetime Fitness Reindeer Run Sun, 12/18/11 Biggby Coffee Jingle Bell Run

50 KR, 50K Relay, 10MR 5KR, kids run 5KR/W

Albion, IN Troy Shelby Twp.

(260) 436-4824 (248) 267-6610 (586) 484-5523

Sun, 12/18/11 Whoville 5K Run & Walk Mon 12/26/11 Harold Webster Boxing Day Run

5KR/W 10MR

Grand Rapids Hamilton, ON

whoville5k.com (905) 971-6040

Sat, 12/31/11 53 Bank New Year’s Eve Family Fun Run 5KR/W, 1MR/W

Detroit

(313) 886-5560

Sat, 12/31/11 Resolution 5K

Lansing

(517) 882-3550

5KR/W

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Featured Future Events See past issues of Michigan Runner online: http://issuu.com/michiganrunner/docs/ Date

Event

Distance

City

Phone

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Sat, 1/7/12 Sun, 1/8/12 Sat, 1/14/12

Walt Disney World Half Marathon Walt Disney World® Marathon U.S. Olympic Team Trials, Marathon

13.1MR 26.2MR 26.2MR

Orlando Orlando Houston

rundisney.com rundisney.com

Sun, 1/15/12 Sat, 1/28/12 Sat, 2/5/12

Chevron Houston Marathon Bigfoot Snowshoe Race Super 5K

26.2MR, 13.1MR, 5K, kids Houston 10K, 5K snowshoe races Traverse City 5KR Novi

(713) 957-3453 See Ad page 3 (231) 933-9242 (734) 929-9027

Sun, 2/26/12 Sun, 3/11/12 Thu 3/24/12

Disney’s Princess Half Marathon St. Patrick’s Parade Corktown Race Dances with Dirt - Green Swamp

13.1MR, 5KR/W, kids run Orlando 5KR/W Detroit 50, 26.2, 13.1M, 50K, relay Dade City, FL

rundisney.com See Ad page 47 (248) 354-1177 (734) 929-9027

Sat, 4/14/12 Sat, 4/28/12 Sun, 5/6/12

Martian Invasion of Races Let’s Move Festival of Races Kalamazoo Marathon / Borgess Run

26.2, 13.1MR, 10-5KR, kids Dearborn (734) 929-9027 13.1MR, 5KR/W, 1MR/W Mount Clemens (586) 295-1532 26.2 MR, 13.1MR, 5KR/W Kalamazoo (877) 255-2447

Sat, 5/12/12 Sat, 5/12/12 Sun, 5/20/12

Dances with Dirt - Gnaw Bone Fifth Third River Bank Run Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon & 10K

50, 26.2, 13.1M, 50K, relay Nashville, IN 25KR, 10KR, 5KR/W, teams Grand Rapids 26.2 MR, 13.1 MR, 10KR Cleveland, OH

See Ad Sep/Oct’11 See Ad Sep/Oct’11 houston2012.com See Ad page 3

(734) 929-9027 (616) 771-1590 (800) 467-3826 See Ad page 2

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Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

Running with Tom Henderson By Tom Henderson

Maddie!” I don’t know who they were; Maddie’s got her own following these days. The reporter for the Sault Evening News came over, interviewed me, and Maddie was later the star of his story about the race. 2. Ditto re: reading more elsewhere in this issue about the Harvest Stompede runs in September in the Leelanau Peninsula. I’ve run races all over the state, and in some of the most gorgeous places, and nothing competes with the view from the registration and staging area for the race atop a steep hill behind the Ciccone Vineyard. Words fail.

inter went on way too long, May pretty much sucked, July was the hottest on record, September was cold and rainy. In other words, what a grand year for running and racing. The Tara Grant Memorial 10K Oct. 1 was my 30th race of the year counting snowshoe runs last winter, so it’s been a full year, too. I probably wouldn’t have run near that many races if it weren’t for the dog. She’s seven now and going as strong as ever, but I know her years of racing are limited, and, since it’s her favorite thing in the world to do and the highlight of her week by far, I try to get them in as often as possible. Here are some highlights of our running and racing season, at least since the weather got warm. I’m not in the mood to talk about winter events yet, with the rain falling out my window and the temperature on the way to the 40s as I write this a few days into fall. The races are all guaranteed to please. Keep them in mind when you’re on RunMichigan.com looking for races next year.

1. The Tahqua 10K and 25K in the U.P. in mid-August. This is just an amazing event, ridiculously beautiful and god-awful crazy tough. The course record got broken in the 10K this year, with a young stud sneaking under 50 minutes, which tells you all you need to know about the terrain. Read more elsewhere in this issue. Something that made the race even better this year? Maddie was running off leash, much easier that way for her and me to each choose our best up and down the cliff sides when the trail along the river peters out. She takes running very seriously and runs at my side, squirrels, deer or other temptations be damned. As we popped out of the woods and into the parking lot where the finish line was, some women started screaming, “Go, Maddie! Go, 44

3. Running along the escarpment trail in the Porcupine Mountains, with those crazy views of Lake Superior, in August. The footing is so bad it’s dumb to be running there, but you put a runner on a trail and he’s gonna start running. Or she is. Or it will. Me, Kathleen and the dog slipped and tripped over miles of loose rock, steep shale and tree roots, but never fell. Then you add in the kayak later along the Superior shore, with the full-grown but adolescent bald eagle yet to get his white feathers screaming at us from his perch on a rock jutting out of the lake, and his parents atop a nearby tree telling him to calm down with their quiet chirps, which he did, and it was a destination to remember. 4. Running with Kathleen and Maddie a few days later from the Shoreline Motel in Eagle Harbor to the top of Mt. Baldy four miles away. The run follows the old hill climb course of Jeff Crumbaugh’s Keweenaw Trail Festival and is just a very, very cool way to bust your lungs. Up, up you go for a net elevation gain of 830 feet. Best of all, it’s blueberry and thimbleberry season, with a few raspberries left if you’re lucky, so you get to eat all this ripe hot fruit on the way up and down. And, yes, those bluish/purple mounds every 100 yards or so on the trail are proof that bears really do poop in the woods. The wind is so fierce coming off Lake Superior at the top of the climb that you’re above the tree line, and, yes, that long island out there almost to Wisconsin is Isle Royale. 5. Any long run in the Sand Lakes quiet area May through August, with all those lakes for me and the dog to dive into, and all those minnows for her to chase till we get ready to put in another few miles. 6. The Barn to Barn 5K in Oneida, in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in September. A very slow course, lots of steep

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011 |

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ups and downs on sand and dirt, with wonderful views of Lake Michigan. Lots of great food after, a generous raffle and all for a good cause, restoring an historic bank in the park. 8. Eight miles on the Fanny Hooey trail in Copper Harbor, borrowing another stretch of one of Crumbaugh’s races. Really technical running, roots and rocks and dangerous descents, great views you better not try to catch on the run. 9. The Harbor Days 5K in early August, an annual event made special this year because my stepdaughter, Jenny, and her boyfriend, Bobby, both completed the walk. They had lost more than 100 pounds between them and to see them do something that a year earlier would have been inconceivable was very, very cool. Another 100 to go, guys, and you’ll be running 10Ks. 10. The Firecracker 5K in Beulah on the Fourth of July, followed by a kayak in Crystal Lake and dock diving by the dog. The sight of her leaping through the air, her legs tucked under her chest and belly, then smacking into the water 15 feet away never fails to make me laugh. 11. Any of the eight-mile out-and-back runs through the Barton Nature Reserve and Bird Hills Park in Ann Arbor, a great way to wind down from an interview, or to gear up for one. My job sends me to Ann Arbor a lot to talk to venture capitalists or tech entrepreneurs, and I’m not going there without getting in a cool run, too. 12. The Asparagus 5K in Empire in May. A crazy, quirky uphill first mile, a wonderful start and finish area in a parking lot on Lake Michigan, and the best t-shirt in state racing. And lots of fresh, cheap, just-picked asparagus available downtown, a few blocks away. 13. The Run for Shelter 5K in late April, a good cause and a great course, starting at a school just west of downtown Traverse City, looping through rolling hills in the countryside and finishing with a gradual, long downhill through a pasture. Added bonus? Maddie defended her title in a race that encourages folks to run with their dogs. 14. Any of the races through Mayberry State Park and Stony Creek Metropark. The State Police Run in late September in Mayberry is a race I’ve helped publicize over the years, but hadn’t got to run it before. Beautiful day, great cause (a benefit for the families of slain police). Then there were the two mid-week summer races at Stony, a 5K in Stony in September the day after the Mayberry run and the Tara Grant run.

Run Thru Hell, Pinckney/Hell

Hensley Remembered, Run Thru Hell Returns

Runners gather with Harrison Hensley at the post-race Mass for Dolores Hensley. PINCKNEY (8/13/11) — “Ah sh**! Look at that hill!” So many runners commented at the 30th edition of Run Thru Hell “In Loving Memory of Dolores Hensley.” The former co-race director, who heated up like a furnace even in the dead of winter, would have been pleased with the cool, dry, cloudy conditions for the day’s events. “It was a cold day in Hell,” grinned veteran runner Pete Buccos, “though I missed the horse flies.”

Rachel Quaintance

“From the challenge of the hills, the beating on the porta-johns if you took too long and the horse’s-ass award for sixth place, it was worth all the hype!” he said. Race director Harrison Hensley, not one to disappoint, added a seventh award to the age groups, the Run Thru Hell weenie bobblehead. “There weren’t enough people,” he groused, despite the fact there were nearly 1,000 finishers. “If I’m upright, the race will go on!” he said.

Matt Folk, who won the 10-mile in 52:48, had heard stories and was not disappointed with his first experience in Hell.

“Weenie (4.8-mile) run” champion Kyle Henderson (26:42) assured he’d be back.

15. Last, but not least, chatting with Tara Grant’s daughter, Lindsey, who was 7 when her mom was murdered in 2007, before and after the start of the Tara Grant Memorial runs. Lindsey didn’t know who I was; she came over to pet Maddie and tell me what a pretty dog she was.

had. “I ran the whole way,” she said, looking as if she could do another 3.1 miles easily.

Alicia Standifer, Tara’s sister, and Alicia’s husband, Erik, adopted Lindsey and her brother, Ian. Erik is an avid runner and now, especially after Saturday’s 5K, Lindsey is too. She told me before the race, all excited, that she was doing her first 5K. And told me after the race, even more excited, how much fun she’d

I joked with her. “Did you cry?” I asked. “Noooo. It was fun.” And she told me again what a nice dog I had. I got Erik alone a little later. “There are no happy endings to what happened to your family, but thank God you two were there for the kids,” I said. There was something special about seeing the joy on the face of the running community’s michiganrunner.net

By Tracey Cohen

Elise Deroo

Matt Folk

“It was hard and hilly, but I trained over summer. This was a big win for me,” he said. A memorial mass for Dolores Hensley was held after the race at St. Mary’s Church, complete with family, friends, bagpipes, song, prayer and humor. For complete results and information on next’s year’s Run Thru Hell, visit http://gaultracemanagement.com and http://runningfoundation.com. Tracey Cohen can be reached at runtrace2000@yahoo.com. - MR-

newest member, at a fundraiser in her mother’s honor to help abused woman. Joy out of despair.

Since Tara’s sister and brother-in-law had helped me with my recent book on the case, “Blood in Snow,” it was only fair I write a check to support the cause, Turning Point Inc., a Mt. Clemens non-profit that benefits abused women and kids. Jeez, all those highlights and another three months to go. Great to be alive and kicking. Oops, running. - MR -

Michigan Runner - November / December 2011

42nd Annual

Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Family Fun Run

Saturday, December 31, 2011 3:30 pm, Belle Isle Casino, Belle Isle Park Events

Race Entry Includes

3:30 pm - Children’s 1 Mile Fun Run / Walk All children 12 & under receive a trophy All Cub/Boy and Girl Scouts receive participation patches 4:00 pm - 5K Run 4:00 pm- Fitness Walk/ Race Walk

Late Registration and Early Packet Pick-up •

Saturday, December 31, 12 Noon - 3:00 pm, Belle Isle Casino

Start, Finish, Refreshments •

Belle Isle Casino

Free Parking •

Belle Isle Park (except on designated race course)

• • • • • • •

Children receive long-sleeve shirt, trophy Food & beverage Register early to guarantee your long-sleeved shirt First 1200 entrants will receive commorative awards NYE Toast and Festivities D-Tag timing by Everal Race Management 5K results will be posted: http://everalracemgt.com

Children (12 and under) Race Entry

All Others (13 and older) Race entry before December 26 Race entry on race day http://glsp.com/53newyearseve/

Featured on Michigan Runner TV:

http://www.belleislefunrun.com

Race Entry and Online Registration:

Waligorski Roofing 46

Michigan Runner - September / October 2011

michiganrunner.tv

$15 $25 $30

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