SBQ#15

+ 驶FIT FOR LIFE始 INSPIRES FIT4KIDS

| 驶HOT SHOTS始 GALLERY: DOMINION RIVERROCK FREE

DYNAMIC DUO CURTIS & VALERIE BLAIR WORK OUT AT POLE GREEN PARK

Gail Grasso TRAINS FOR THE HALF MARATHON PAGE 15

FROM STROLLING TO SKY DIVING, NBC12 ANCHOR

DOWN & DIRTY: THE HENRICUS DAUBER DASH PAGE 5

DRAGON BOATING @ ROCKETTS LANDING PAGE 14

RYAN NOBLES & OTHER AREA RESIDENTS ARE GOING OUT AND GETTING FIT.

jul | aug VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 5 • 2010 • NUMBER 15

INSIDE THIS ISSUE JUMPSTART .............................................................................. 5 Night Time is the Ride Time: The Anthem Moonlight Ride; Letʼs Get Dirty!: The annual Henricus Dauber Dash; Two Local Companies, One Popular Event:

SBQ

Sports Backers Quarterly: Athletics, Recreation & Healthy Living

Richmondʼs favorite running event is now titled the Ukropʼs Monument Av‑ enue 10k presented by Martinʼs; Itʼs Time to Make Race History: the Patrick Henry Half Marathon; Richmond Sweats It Out as Americaʼs 11th Fittest City; Hoops Anyone?: The Allen & Allen Hoopla 3 on 3.

BODYSMART ..............................................................................7 ASK THE SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN: One Hour or Weight: The hard truth on how much exercise is needed to actually lose weight and maintain an ideal body weight is shocking.

Dominion Riverrock Hot Shots ..................................................8 A gallery of this yearʼs Dominion Riverrock digital photo contest images which document the personality, competition, activity or venue of this uniquely Richmond event.

Fit4Kids Formed to Lead Fight for Healthy Children ..............12 Targeting childrenʼs wellness with an emphasis on reducing the incidences of childhood obesity within the region, the newly formed organization, Fit4Kids, will promote physical activity and healthy eating habits for area youth. SBQ had a chance to talk with Interim Executive Director Townley Goldsmith‑Ray.

Are You Ready for the Dragon Boat Festival? ..........................14 Beautiful Rocketts Landing is the location for Richmondʼs first‑ever Dragon Boat Festival that takes place on July 31.

Nowʼs the Time to Sign Up for the Half Marathon Training Team Program ............................15 If youʼre thinking about giving the half marathon a try, thereʼs still time to join the Half Marathon Training Team (HMTT).

Out and About ........................................................................17 Ranging from the extreme experience of sky diving to the simple and effec‑ tive activity of a nightly stroll, area residents are stepping out and shaping up.

The Water Walker ....................................................................28 Paddleboarding is a relatively new water sports phenomenon that allows you to tailor the workout to your fitness level.

Play Ball! ................................................................................30 While an amateur adult baseball league may not seem capable of harboring a strong pulse, rest assured it does̶a pulse that beats more than 200 play‑ ers strong here in Richmond, believe it or not.

SBQnow.com | 3

SPORTS BACKERS QUARTERLY Athletics, Recreation & Healthy Living

JUL|AUG VOL. 3 ISSUE 5 NUMBER 15 To Advertise in SBQ

Publisher | Executive Editor

Dave Smitherman Publisher | Art Director

Ted Randler Contributing Writers Taylor Hodge Teresa Stadler, MD, FACSM Photography Chris Owens Kacy Smitherman

Contact Chris Woody 804.822.1422 Office

chris@richmondgrid.com SBQ is published by Sports Backers and Palari Publishing LLP

Advertising Chris Woody WWW.

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Sports Backers Quarterly: Athletics, Recreation & Healthy Living is pro‑ duced six times a year (4 regular issues and two special event issues) by Palari Publishing LLP (P.O. Box 9288, Richmond, VA, 23227 Phone 804‑ 355‑1035), Sports Backers (100 Avenue of Champions, Suite 300, Rich‑ mond, VA 23230 Phone 804‑285‑9495). All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without writ‑ ten permission from the publisher is prohibited.

General comments, story suggestions and letters to the editor for publication consideration should be directed to feedback@SBQnow.com.

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SPORTS BACKERS QUARTERLY JUL|AUG 2010

J U M P S T A R T

PHOTOS: SPORTS BACKERS

Night Time is the Ride Time

Last year, the first moonlight biking event in the Richmond area brought hundreds of thrill‑seekers together with the promise of an exciting and unique nighttime adventure. Much more than just a bike ride in the dark, riders even decorate their bikes (and themselves) in hopes of winning the best bike costume award. And because itʼs a nighttime event, there are even prizes for the best decorative bike lights.

The Anthem Moonlight Ride starts and finishes at Sports Backers Stadium and features a short "Half Moon" (8 miles) or a longer "Full Moon" (17 miles) route through the Northside and near West End. At the end of the ride, stick around to enjoy a free concert and a complimentary soft drink or Blue Moon beer. To add to the fun, there will be plenty of exhibitors, food, and interactive activities. It's a

Letʼs Get Dirty!

One of the most popular events anywhere is a good, old‑fashioned mud run, and thatʼs just part of the annual Hen‑ ricus Dauber Dash (Satur‑ day, August 7, 2010), a race that showcases the rugged beauty of Dutch Gap and the his‑ torical splendor of Henricus Park.

Just like the Daubers that built the

mud walls and houses of the Citie of Henricus, you have a chance to relive your childhood with plenty of messy mud on hand.

The course is a unique 5 mile trail run that will have you climbing, crawling, and weaving through several fun obstacles that of course includes a huge mud pit overlook‑ ing the James River.

So get your grungy clothes and old tennis shoes ready for this always‑ entertaining event. And donʼt for‑ get a towel!

great way to spend a summer evening!

SBQnow.com | 5

J U M P S T A R T Two Local Companies, One Popular Event Thanks to an exciting partnership be‑ tween Ukropʼs Homestyle Foods and Martinʼs, Richmondʼs favorite running event is now titled the Ukropʼs Monu‑ ment Avenue 10k presented by Mar‑ tinʼs. The announcement was made at a First Friday Forum hosted by the Retail Merchants Association, Rick Herring, President of Giant/Martinʼs, and Bobby Ukrop, President & CEO of Ukrop's Homestyle Foods.

“Weʼre thrilled that Martinʼs is partner‑ ing with Ukropʼs to sponsor the Monu‑ ment Avenue 10k,” said Bobby Ukrop, president & CEO of Ukropʼs Homestyle Foods.

Itʼs Time to Make Race History

“One of the signature events in Rich‑ mond is the Ukropʼs Monument Avenue 10k,” said Rick Herring, president, Giant/Martinʼs. “It is an event that makes Richmond a national destination and brings everyone̶from young to old̶together as a community. I am de‑ lighted to announce today that Martinʼs will be the presenting sponsor of the 2011‑2013 Ukropʼs Monument Avenue 10k.”

PHOTOS: SPORTS BACKERS

“The success of the Ukropʼs Monument Avenue 10k has been a community ef‑ fort that involves thousands of volun‑ teers, city leaders and great sponsors,” said Sports Backers executive director Jon Lugbill. “The combined commit‑ ment of Ukropʼs and Martinʼs ensures the eventʼs impact on the community will continue to grow.”

The event is the nationʼs 10th biggest running race of any distance and the 26th largest in the world. The 2010 event had a record of more than 37,000 entrants. The 12th running of the Ukropʼs Monument Avenue 10k pre‑ sented by Martinʼs will be held on April 2, 2011.

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Hanover County is fast becoming a favorite of athletes, especially bikers who wind through the country roads every weekend.

For runners, thereʼs the annual Patrick Henry Half Marathon that consists of a 13.1‑mile race that starts off at Poor Farm Park and winds along the rolling countryside and even along Ash‑ landʼs scenic railroad district.

The race is named for Hanover Countyʼs famous Colonial‑era pa‑ triot, Patrick Henry, who pro‑ claimed the Revolutionary Warʼs rallying cry, “give me liberty or give me death.” So runners get to actually mix in a little history while getting their race on.

The fun takes place on Saturday, August 28. Donʼt miss it!

Richmond Sweats It Out as Americaʼs 11th Fittest City Recently, Richmond was ranked the 11th healthiest and fittest city in America in a study called the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Ameri‑ can Fitness Index, cre‑ ated in partnership with the Wellpoint Founda‑ tion. ACSM developed the program in 2007 to provide an evidence‑ and science‑based measurement of the state of health and fitness at the community level throughout the U.S. Communities, organizations and in‑ dividuals will be able to assess factors that contribute to health and fitness and measure the progress.

“Rankings are fun to talk about, but if Richmond really is the 11th healthiest region in America, that is something to cheer,” says Jon Lugbill, executive director of Sports Backers.

The strengths and advantages of the Rich‑ mond area include more parks, playgrounds, recre‑ ation centers, and tennis courts per capita and a lower percentage of people with illnesses like asthma and diabetes. This is the first time Richmond landed on the rankings, so hopefully next yearʼs placing will be even higher.

Hoops Anyone?

Richmond's most competitive and exciting 3 on 3 basketball tournament comes back to the Dominion Resources campus in the Innsbrook Office Park for the third straight year, but this year it brings with it a new name. The Allen & Allen Hoopla 3 on 3 is set for July 24‑25, 2010, and will be played on a specially constructed basketball playground made just for the event.

PHOTO: SPORTS BACKERS

"We are proud to partner with the Sports Backers on this great event," said Doug Barry, Presi‑ dent of Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen.

"We really enjoyed being the sponsor of the Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen Arena Court last year, so we are very excited to be taking our involvement to another level.

We look forward to helping grow the event to its full potential."

Highlighting the big event will be an Arena Court, which will host the high energy elite division games and the rim‑rattling action of the Slam Dunk Contest.

ASK THE SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN One Hour or Weight I am in desperate need of advice to lose weight. I eat well and run 3 miles three times a week and I canʼt seem to drop a pound. Now that I am in my 40s, itʼs time to get rid of this “baby weight” once and for all. I even trained for a race and I think I actually gained weight!

Truly, Frustrated by Fat. Greetings Frustrated, The hard truth on how much exer‑ cise is needed to actually lose weight and maintain an ideal body weight is shocking.

For years the American College of Sports Medicine has made strict recommendations.

These recommendations were confirmed in a study published in the March, 2010 Journal of the American Medical Association. The amount of cardiovascular exercise (that gets your heart rate up like running, biking, or swimming) required to lose or manage a de‑

The Allen & Allen Hoopla 3 on 3 offers basketball players of all ages and skill levels competitive games in a great event atmos‑

phere that features music, food, and sponsor giveaways. The three skill levels offered are the elite, competitive and recre‑ ational divisions, with male, fe‑ male, and co‑ed teams in all three. Co‑ed teams must have one player of each gender on the court at all times. There will also be three age divisions: Youth (Ages 8‑13), High School (Grades 9‑12), and Adult (Ages 18 & older).

Highlighting the big event will be an Arena Court, which will host the high energy elite division games and the rim‑rattling action of the Slam Dunk Contest. Youth and high school players will enjoy competing on the Youth Champi‑ onship Court, which will also serve as the site of the Kid's Slam Dunk Contest. Then, all weekend long, the competitors and specta‑ tors can also show off their free‑ throw shooting, three‑point shooting, and ball handling abili‑ ties on the Contest Court.

B O D Y S M A R T

BY TERESA STADLER

Most Americans are not ca‑ pable of running enough to meet even the minimal require‑ ments for weight maintenance without suffering from an over‑ use injury. But, with cross train‑ ing nearly everyoneʼs joints and muscles are capable of putting in the time. Even if that means get‑ ting into the water up to your chest and just walking. Water ex‑ ercises and group exercises, like spin classes, are a great way to knock out those minutes without beating up your body.

For the more adventurous, Sports Back‑ ers Marathon and Half Marathon Training Teams are starting now for this fallʼs events.

Check it out at sportsbackers.org.

Water exercises and group exercises, like spin classes, are a great way to knock out those minutes without beating up your body. cent size is frequently underestimated.

For simple weight maintenance we should all be doing “30‑60 minutes of cardio‑ vascular exercise on all or most days of the week.” For real weight loss, we need to do “60‑90 minutes of cardiovascular exercise on all or most days of the week.” That is 4‑7 times a week. Thatʼs like taking on a second part‑ time job. Yes, that is what it takes to get the weight off, then keep it off for the next 50 years or more.

Teresa Stadler, MD, FACSM is Medical Director of Commonwealth Sports Medicine, Ironman finisher, active member of Richmond’s athletic community, and mom of three small children.

SBQnow.com | 7

DOMINION RIVERROCK

8 | SBQnow.com

HOT SHOTS GREG GARNER TOOK THIS

FIRST PLACE

IMAGE OF THE

2010

DOMINION RIVERROCK DIGITAL PHOTO CON‑ TEST WHICH ENCOUR ‑ AGED PHOTOGRAPHERS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS TO DOCUMENT THE PERSON ‑ ALITY, COMPETITION , ACTIVITY OR VENUE OF THIS UNIQUELY

RICH‑

MOND EVENT.

THE PANEL OF JUDGES LOOKED FOR IMAGES THAT CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF

DOMINION

RIVERROCK. CASH PRIZES OF

$500, $250

& $100 WERE AWARDED TO THE FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD PLACE CON ‑ TESTANTS .

MAYBE YOUR

PHOTO WILL BE HERE NEXT YEAR !

SBQnow.com | 9

1 0 | SBQnow.com

On the opposite page: The top image by Antonio Sanchez is the 2nd place photo ($250 prize).

The bottom image is by Dave Parrish who earned 3rd place ($100 prize).

Photos this page feature the Honorable Mention images taken by:

Top row: Josh Norris, Nick Ghobashi, Tommy Lynch Middle row: Henry Stern, Tommy Lynch Bottom image: Tommy Lynch

SBQnow.com | 1 1

FIT4KIDS FORMED TO LEAD FIGHT FOR HEALTHY CHILDREN TARGETING

CHILDREN ʼ S WELLNESS WITH AN EMPHASIS ON REDUCING THE INCI ‑ DENCES OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY WITHIN THE REGION , THE NEWLY FORMED OR ‑ GANIZATION, FIT4KIDS, WILL PROMOTE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND HEALTHY EATING HABITS FOR AREA YOUTH . SBQ HAD A CHANCE TO TALK WITH I NTERIM E XECU ‑ TIVE D IRECTOR T OWNLEY G OLDSMITH ‑R AY. What is the overall objective of the program?

Greater Richmond Fit4Kids is a new nonprofit organization that is solely focused on improving children’s health and reducing childhood obesity. Fit4Kids was created to be the organization that addresses the problems facing children in the Richmond region and coordinates the effort of other community partners to more effectively take part in this fight for the health and wellness of kids.

The overall objective of Fit4Kids is to improve the health and wellness of children by increasing physical activity and promoting proper nutrition. There are staggering figures that describe the state of emergency that is childhood obesity.

For instance, more than 23 million American children (or nearly one in every three) are overweight or obese. The current generation of children in America have shorter life expectancies than their parents. Additionally, one in three American children born in 2000 will develop diabetes if they adopt the nation’s inactive and overeating lifestyle.

Among other areas, Fit4Kids will work with local schools to address opportunities for change in physical education curriculum, better food options in school cafeterias, nutrition programs for children and their parents with local community partners that have developed programs to encourage physical activity outside of school. Fit4Kids will focus its initial efforts on impacting children from kindergarten through the twelfth grade. By establishing a coordinated front to promote physical activity and healthy eating habits and developing sustainable programs, a true change in lifestyle and improved wellness all become more attainable goals.

Development and enhancement of programs will lead to a larger effort by Fit4Kids in the future to provide leadership to advocate for change in the fields 1 2 | SBQnow.com

of health, nutrition and physical activity. To promote more change across Virginia in the long term, Fit4Kids may ultimately lead an effort to lobby government officials. The organization will also recognize teachers and members of the community who are doing things right in their little corner of the world to improve the health and wellness of the children in their lives.

How will that be achieved?

During the 2010-2011 school year, Fit4Kids will evaluate existing programs in the community that focus on improving the health of children through physical activity and nutrition and thereby reducing childhood obesity. The assessment will follow programs that support children from kindergarten through twelfth grade in the Richmond region. In order to conduct a thorough assessment of all the existing programs in the Richmond region, Fit4Kids will work with local school systems, parents, local government, the healthcare industry, health and fitness centers, higher education, health departments, Central Virginia Food Bank, American Heart Association, Boys & Girls Clubs and other community organizations.

The project aims to research programs that affect children from all over Richmond, Henrico, Hanover, Chesterfield and the Tri-Cities. Once the assessment is complete, Fit4Kids staff and Board members will work with local partners to determine the best communities to establish new and enhanced programs. The plan will be to incorporate as many communities as possible in the implementation of Fit4Kids programs.

Several school systems, including

Chesterfield County, have started to monitor students' height and weight proportions. Early results indicated that 33% of all students were either overweight or at risk of being overweight. Using school systems and other community organizations as outlets for health, nutrition and physical activity initiatives will provide the most impact on youth ranging in our target age.

Who is on the Board and how were they chosen?

While the Board is still in its infancy, the objective has been to get an initial group involved that could help steer the development of the organization. The Board is a diverse and impressive group of individuals. In order to affect the most change in the Richmond region, we knew it was important for this group to represent different areas of the community that all serve to promote childhood health and wellness. We have Board members that represent the healthcare community, education, school systems, nutrition, hospital systems and the corporate community. We expect to expand the Board as the organization continues to grow.

How did the program originate?

Over the years, the success and impact of Sports Backers events have helped make the Richmond region known as a healthy and active community. Driving improved health and wellness through

We have your rental needs covered: tents, staging, tables & chairs etc.

Bruce Rubin Jessie Ball duPont Professor and Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine

When did the program kick off and are there any events/action items currently Ivan Schwartz scheduled?

Administrative Director of Sports Medicine, The organization ofBon Secours Richmond ficially formed in Health Systems April 2010. Once the assessment of existRobert Ukrop ing programs has President, Ukropʼs Homestyle Foods been conducted, Fit4Kids will determine which programs can be enhanced or developed. It may take three to five years for Fit4Kids programs to be conducted throughout the community on a regular basis.

We are currently in the process of developing a logo and website for the organization. In the meantime, we encourage people to visit www.sportsbackers.org and check out the Youth Programs section to find more information about Fit4Kids.

Call us to get started on your next event.

804-264-6621 CommonwealthEvent.com + ʻFIT FOR LIFEʼ INSPIRES FIT4K

IDS | ʻHOT SHOT Sʼ GALLERY: DOMI NION RIVERROCK FREE

training teams for the SunTrust Richmond Marathon, McDonald’s Half Marathon and the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k has helped the Sports Backers make a difference in the lives of many people.

To more specifically encourage physical activity in children, the Sports Backers launched the Fit For Life program in 2005. Fit For Life is a 10-week training program, which encourages children to run or walk 26 miles. This program reached 8,000 kids during the 2009-2010 school year. Evaluating the impact and opportunities for the Fit For Life program led to the development of two conferences on youth obesity, which Current members of the Board of provided speakers Directors include: and examples of Edward Acevedo best practices from Professor and Chair, Health and around the country Human Performance, Virginia to local teachers, Commonwealth University health departments Tom Byrd and the healthcare Founder, Take Care Group LLC: community.

Past President, Anthem Blue Cross From these conand Blue Shield in Virginia; ferences, the Sports Chairman of Fit4Kids Backers realized that in order to truly imAdele Johnson Executive Director, Richmond Public pact the fight against Schools Education Foundation childhood obesity, there needed to be a Jon Lugbill focus on nutrition Executive Director, Sports Backers along with physical George Martin activity. Not having Partner, McGuire Woods, LLP; the expertise to adSecretary of Fit4Kids dress the area of nuVictoria Miller trition, the challenge President, Virginia Association for became finding Health, Physical Education, people who did. The Recreation and Dance outcome of this Heather Rice search was to create Federal Tax Manager, KPMG; a separate non-profit Treasurer of Fit4Kids organization.

DYNAMIC DUO CURTIS & VALERIE BLAIR WORKOUT AT POLE GREEN PARK

SBQ

Gail Grasso

TRAINS FOR THE HALF MARATHON PAGE 15

DOWN & DIRTY: THE HENRICUS DAUBER DASH PAGE 5

GET HOME DELIVERY OF

FROM STROLLING TO SKY DIVING, NBC12 ANCHOR

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SUBSCRIBE ONLINE @

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ARE YOU READY FOR THE DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL? BEAUTIFUL ROCKETTS LANDING IS THE LOCATION FOR RICH‑ MOND ʼ S FIRST‑ EVER W HAT I F C REDIT U NIONS . COM D RAGON BOAT FESTIVAL THAT TAKES PLACE ON JULY 31. ACROSS THE COUNTRY, GROUPS AND BUSINESSES HAVE EMBRACED THE SPORT OF DRAGON BOATING BECAUSE IT BUILDS CAMARADERIE AND A SENSE OF “ TEAM ” THROUGH PARTICIPATION IN THE EVENT .

PHOTO: SPORTS BACKERS

T

his ancient Chinese sport has been gaining popularity in North America over the past twenty years and has actually become the world’s fastest-growing water sport.

Dragon boats are 40-foot human-powered canoes decorated with ornate Chinese dragon heads. Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams consisting of 20 synchronized paddlers, one drummer, and one steersperson race the canoes 500m down the river. All teams are guaranteed at least three races.

Aaron Soroka, COO of GWN Dragon Boat (which produces races all over Canada and the US) is confident folks will take to the sport.“Richmond is perfectly located between the major hotbeds of dragon boating on the east coast. With a very active community in the Carolinas and Florida and one in the New York/Philadelphia area, this event will attract visitors from the north and south. Locally, considering the support for events currently run by Sport Backers, this fun festival fits nicely with the local outdoor adventure enthusiast.”

According to Chris Miller, vice president for the Richmond Chapter of Credit Unions and committee chairperson for this event’s sponsor, WhatIfCreditUnions.com, this is an ideal activity for the area.“Richmond has a tremendous asset in its physical beauty, a year-round enjoyable climate, and the James River. Outdoor activities help to showcase all the region has to offer.”

“We are so pleased that this ancient sport is coming to Richmond and Rocketts Landing,” says Jason Vickers-Smith, COO of The WVS Companies, the developer of Rocketts Landing. “The James River is Richmond’s greatest resource, and I can think of no better way to show

1 4 | SBQnow.com

Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams consisting of 20 synchronized paddlers, one drummer, and one steersperson race the canoes 500m down the river. it off than this spectacular event.”

Hirschler Fleischer wasted no time signing up for the event.“We have 24 participants, ranging from attorneys to paralegals to administrative staff, and a few family members,” says Judith Harrison, HF Marketing Director. “We are hoping for great weather and just plain fun while supporting and raising awareness for breast cancer, a great cause. The disease has affected a number of people in our Hirschler Fleischer family.”

The WhatIfCreditUnions.com Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival will be the sixth event of the Major League Dragon Boat Series. Not only is the event expected to draw in experienced participants from across the continent and overseas, but it should also attract first-time racers from right here in Richmond.

So why did WhatIfCreditUnions.com become involved? “Credit unions exist to

promote financial health,” says Miller.“We believe physical health is vitally important too, and an active lifestyle is a critical component. Making smart healthy decisions, whether about money or health or exercise is part of what we do.

And we will definitely encourage our Richmond and Southside Credit Unions to form their own team for this event.”

As the sport continues to gain momentum, Richmond will be counted among the innovative cities that helped pave the way for this new activity. “Dragon boating in the United States still has a long way to go,” Soroka admits. “While many communities have embraced the sport, there are still large parts of the nation that have not been exposed to this type of event. The potential is endless; it is just a matter of exposing communities to the sport and the positive benefits.”

For more information or to register a team, visit www.gwndragonboat.com.

NOWʼS THE TIME TO SIGN UP FOR THE HALF MARATHON TRAINING TEAM PROGRAM E ACH YEAR , MORE AND MORE RUNNERS DECIDE WHETHER TO SIGN UP FOR THE 26.2‑ MILE S UN T RUST R ICHMOND M ARATHON , OPT FOR THE 13.1‑ MILE M C D ONALD ʼ S H ALF M ARATHON , OR CHOOSE THE HCA VA 8 K . I F YOU ʼ RE THINKING ABOUT GIVING THE HALF MARATHON A TRY , THERE ʼ S STILL TIME TO JOIN THE H ALF M ARATHON T RAINING T EAM (HMTT).

This year, the events take place on Saturday, November 13, and that is just a few months away. Tackling that kind of challenge takes planning and conditioning. No matter what your fitness level, youʼll need to prepare your‑ self physically, and lots of folks find that the HMTT program helps them get in shape for the big day.

People are sometimes hesitant to take the first step and sign up for the program, but most everyone is ecstatic with the results. “I signed up for it because I had never run a half,” says Grasso of her experience on the

“I decided to join the HMTT and get ʻback in the saddle.ʼ I was a little hesitant whether I could do it,” says Gregory Barch. “I was on last yearʼs HMTT and thoroughly enjoyed the ex‑ perience,” adds Tom Cantone.

Gail Grasso

T PHOTOS: BRIGHTROOM

he 14‑week training program starts in early August with a detailed writ‑ ten schedule thatʼs easy to follow.

Youʼll also get personal guidance from vet‑ eran coach Ro Gammon and her team. “The coaches were all friendly, helpful, and ap‑ proachable,” says Gail Grasso of last yearʼs program. “The training journal, including facts related to training, was helpful and fun for tracking my progress.”

According to Sue Reynolds, “The HMTT train‑ ing log helped tremendously. It gave you a breakdown day by day of what you are sup‑ posed to run.”

Gregory Barch HMTT last year. “I felt I needed the structure and commitment to get the job done. My ex‑ perience truly was life‑changing. A safe, sys‑ tematic plan brought my fitness to a new level.”

Sue Reynolds

Reynolds had a similar experience. “After at‑ tending the first HMTT clinic with my boyfriend, Coach Ro persuaded me into com‑

SBQnow.com | 1 5

ing out on the next Saturday morning to see if I could do it. I never felt pressured into doing the training team; it was a chance for me to see if I could do something I never thought was possible. The coaches never complained that I was the last person in al‑ most every week,” Reynolds remembers.

“They waited around and made sure their whole zoo of animals came home each week (Penguins, Cheetahs, Zebras, Falcons, Splitting Hares, Red Belly Cooters, and few others).”

complish a similar goal.” Reynolds attributed her success partly to the clinics. “Each clinic was a wealth of knowledge that a new per‑ son could absorb. I also believe a lot of the veteran runners were able to get valuable in‑ formation.”

As a testament to the programʼs results and the camaraderie that it provides, a large num‑ ber of people join again the next year. “I am planning to join the HMTT again this August,” adds Grasso. “I would sign up for the MTT, but I am training for my second triathlon.”

Reynolds says, “The coaches try to get to

Who would have thought a non-runner could finish a half marathon with just three months of training?

Tom Cantone Bill Nawrocki had some success with other races, but never got the performance he was looking for until he joined last yearʼs program.

“I signed up for the HMTT and everything changed,” he says. “This was the first time I had formal running guidance and ran with coaches and others that were all trying to ac‑

know you on a personal level. Even though there was a big group, the coaches made an attempt to learn your name and something about you. “ “I was a part of the inaugural (HMTT) in 2009 coached by Ro Gammon,” says Barch. “And it was such a great help to have her as well as my Red Belly Cooter teammates and coaches behind me 100% to finish that race.”

Ready to sign up? Hereʼs what you get: • 14‑week training program starting on Saturday, August 7 at 8 a.m. with a de‑ tailed written schedule for you to follow.

• Personal guidance from veteran coach Ro Gammon and her team of experi‑ enced coaches.

• Organized and supported weekly group Saturday morning runs from Sports Backers Stadium, located next to The Diamond.

• A special Sports Backers Half Marathon Training Team technical race shirt to wear during the race.

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• Entry in the 2010 McDonaldʼs Half Marathon and all associated race benefits.

• Special clinics on subjects like nu‑ trition, running attire and other re‑ lated topics.

Bill Nawrocki Others like Cantone decide to move on to the full 26.1‑mile course after they have the half under their belt. “Almost a dozen of my Fal‑ con HMTT folks from last year are on my novice MTT. Only one has completed a full marathon, so weʼll be getting through the aches and pains together. My primary goal is to complete my first marathon.” Nawrocki agrees, “Iʼve made a lot of great friends from the HMTT and now there are 8 of us doing the MTT together! Iʼm so glad I signed up for the HMTT and canʼt believe Iʼm going to run a marathon! Amazing!” Reynolds is also tack‑ ling the marathon. “I will miss the coaches and teammates of the HMTT this year. I do have plans to return to the HMTT in 2011 and years to come.”

And the great news is that you donʼt have to be left out. If you decide you want to give the McDonaldʼs Half Marathon a try, you have time to find out what everyoneʼs talking about. Just make the commitment, follow the program, and youʼre part of one of the most exciting events in the Richmond area. Grasso sums it up best. “I was SO ready for race day.

I came within 90 seconds of making it into the newspaper. I still feel like I could shout from the rooftops about my experience.”

To register, sign up online. For additional information, call the Sports Backers at (804) 285‑9495. All Training Team entry fees must be received by August 21.

“Who would have thought a non‑runner could finish a half marathon with just three months of training,” Reynolds asks. “Coach Ro and her group of HMTT coaches did from the start! I can not thank them enough much for this experience.”

Motivation is a key factor in all successful wellness regimens. Where you

OUTANDABOUT

work out can be as crucial to your

motivation as when

and how you choose to maintain an

ongoing program.

Fortunately, the

region has a wealth of open‑air options to enjoy the warm weather as you exercise.

Local athletes, at all levels of

experience, offer

ideas and locations

to enhance that all‑

important “me time” to get fit, de‑stress

and enjoy the long days of summer.

Ranging from the

extreme experience of sky diving to the simple and effective activity of a nightly stroll, area residents are stepping out and shaping up.

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OUTANDABOUT

“We motivate each other and it helps us stay even more connected.”

Pole Green Park, Mechanicsville The Blairs

1 8 | SBQnow.com

Motivation & Milestones Staying fit is really essential for this busy couple. Married for 13 years, Curtis Blair Jr., an NBA Referee, and his wife Valerie, an optician with Grove Ave Eye Center, have two children.

Valerie says, “As a mother of kids ages 9 and 5, working, and having a husband who travels for his job, I need all the en‑ ergy I can get to keep up. So staying fit and healthy is very important to me.”

Part of her summer workout is the P90X (12 wk program) and maintaining all year‑round at the gym. “Diet plays a big part too (high protein and low carbs). Most importantly, setting a good example for my kids so that they can make good choices in life.”

“My job requires me to stay fit all year round,”Curtis explains.

“Iʼm constantly running up and down the court, probably about 3 miles per game. In the off‑season, I like to incorpo‑ rate P90X and Insanity in my workout regiments. Diet plays an important part in my overall fitness. “ “Both of us are getting ready to hit a milestone in our lives (The Big 40) so staying fit and healthy is very important,” Va‑ lerie notes. “Curtis's job requires him to travel 6 months out of the year, so we take full advantage of him being home for the summer by working out together. We motivate each other and it helps us stay even more connected. We also feel very strongly about setting a good example for our kids so that they make good choices in life.”

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OUTANDABOUT Family Home on the Chesterfield / Powhatan Border Matt McLaren

Homegrown Gym Matt McLaren, who works for Hanover County Economic De‑ velopment, doesnʼt have to travel far to stay fit. “Summer in Richmond is my favorite time. It opens up so many different ways to stay active outdoors. With the longer days, I can go running, swimming or biking later in the evening when it is cooler. Along with great weather comes great, fresh food from the garden. There is nothing better that an awesome workout outside followed up by a meal with fresh food from your own backyard!”

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Monument Avenue, Richmond Ann Marsh Rutledge City Synergy Ann Marsh Rutledge, Learning Center Manager for College Nannies & Tutors, keeps fit by jogging in the Fan and working out at the Downtown YMCA. She enjoys running in the neigh‑ borhood, on Monument Ave, or down to the YMCA. “I love the active lifestyle that living in the Fan lets me have. Besides being able to run outside, I love being able to walk to dinner, the market, or to get my haircut. Itʼs motivating to see so many other people in the Fan running or walking.”

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OUTANDABOUT Short Pump American Family Fitness 2 2 | SBQnow.com

When Working Out is Your Work

Going to the gym may seem like a bit of a bus manʼs holiday for these associates at American Family Fitness. Fortunately, they are just as passionate about their training as they are about their clientsʼ well‑ ness activities.

“Over the summer I focus on strength training. I do a lot of run‑ ning to build my base track workouts. I also do road races and Sport Backers summer series to stay competitive,” explains David Neal a run‑ ner and NSCA Personal Trainer.

All four have diverse training interests. Fitness counselor Ben An‑ derson takes outdoor activties to new heights with skydiving.

Assistant Fitness Director Bryan Lane takes it to the streets with pickup games of basketball. “Promoting fitness and a healthy way of life is what I love to do. Basketball is a great way to get you moving to‑ wards that cardio‑fit body you've always wanted,” he says.

“I basically try to get into the pool whenever I can,” explains Brit‑ tney Popelier, the Aquatics Director. “Based on my crazy schedule, Iʼll either swim with my coach Dudley Duncan with Quest swimming or hop in an American Family Fitness pool and create my own workout.

I've recently added weights to my training as well in hopes of drop‑ ping some time in future meets.” [opposite page l to r]: David Neal; Bryan Lane; Brittney Popelier and Ben Anderson.

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OUTANDABOUT

Midlothian Robert Harman Midday Miles As a father of 5 with a full time job, Robert Harman, Service Director, Brownʼs Buick Volkswagen Jaguar finds it important to implement exercise into his daily routine. “Weather permitting I run 6 miles a day on average outdoors, completing a vigorous run simply on a lunch break at work,” he explains. “If weather does not permit an outdoor run, I schedule my work out indoors at the local gym. The rewards of a healthy diet and exercise are well worth the effort.”

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“As a family we are trying to walk as much as possible. We try and go 3 or 4 times a week.”

Richmond Ryan Nobles Friends & Family NBC12 anchor Ryan Nobles works both social and family relationships into his fitness mix. “My biggest physical activity is a weekly pick‑up basketball game with a bunch of us from local TV stations,” he says.

“We push it hard in the heat, usually Saturday morn‑ ings.” As for his family time, Nobles takes to the streets. “My wife, Karey, is pregnant and we also have a 6‑month‑old daughter, so as a family we are trying to walk as much as possible. We try and go 3 or 4 times a week.”

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OUTANDABOUT

“Never think that you canʼt do it.

Persistence and patience are key.”

Robious Landing Park, Midlothian Lori Lamb 2 6 | SBQnow.com

Challenges & Rewards How and why did you get into tri‑athletics?

I got hooked on spinning in the winter of 2009, then thought “I spin, I run, why not add the swim and I can do a triathlon?” The Mid‑ lothian Y was hosting the 1st Pink Power Triathlon that August, so I hired a swim coach and signed up for the race. This race was a dis‑ aster for me personally̶I seriously overesti‑ mated my swim time, lost my timing chip in the pool, and could barely run; however, these mishaps inspired me to do another race̶and to hopefully do it better. I signed up for the Napier Realtors Sprint Triathlon in October 2009 and had a much better race and expe‑ rience. And it just continues.

How are you training or your next event?

My next race is the I Love the Tavern Triathlon on June 27, 2010. I train 5‑7 days a week and generally alternate days of aerobic train‑ ing̶swimming, biking, running̶with days of strength training̶TRX, weighlifting. The summer months are nice because I like to do the aerobic training outdooors.

What have been the challenges and rewards?

Time is, of course, a challenge̶making the time to do the training. My biggest challenge initially was learning to swim and practicing that. Now my biggest challenge is improving my running speed. The rewards have defi‑ nitely outweighed any challenges̶triathlon has changed my body and my life. An added benefit is that, at age 44, I am picking up mod‑ eling again. I have just signed with Liquid, an agency founded by Richmonder, Kim Alley, my cousin.

Where do you workout and train in Richmond?

I workout at the Midlothian YMCA. I love the atmosphere, the staff, and the people there. I also enjoyed road biking and mountain biking.

What advice would you give to others who are interested in tri sports?

Never think that you canʼt do it. Persistence and patience are key. If you put in the training time, you will reap the benefits̶physically, emotionally and spiritually.

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THE WATER WALKER

PADDLEBOARDING IS A RELATIVELY NEW PHENOMENON THAT ALLOWS YOU TO TAILOR THE WORKOUT TO YOUR FITNESS LEVEL .

A

fter moving to the Richmond area 3 years ago, fitness enthusiast Ken Peace was looking for a new way to exercise on the water. Already a Red Cross lifeguard instructor and a water safety in‑ structor, Peace wanted to combine his love of watersports with the need to keep fit.

“I got interested in the sport about 3 years ago. I had seen the sport on TV, a surf‑ ing show about Hawaii, and decided to look into it,” Peace explains. “I tried searching the sport on the internet, but had no luck. Only one site came up and that was in Hawaii. Not long after that, I was visiting my sister in the Outer Banks and decided to check with the local rental companies about the boards.

Kitty Hawk Sports had just gotten one in and let me try it out for the day. My kids and I had a great time playing around on the board in the ocean and in the pool. I was hooked.”

Over the next 2 years, he rented several boards and learned quite a bit about the sport. The boards that Peace used had the curve of a surfboard and were difficult to bal‑ ance without a lot of practice. “About a year ago I began to search the internet again for

The boards range in size and shape. Nine to 10 feet is usually for surf and 11 to 14 feet boards are for racing and open water. The 12 foot boards are a little more stable and can be used in both surf or flatwater.

paddleboards. This time, quite a few sites came up. I saw a company in Texas that had developed a board mainly for flat water, rivers and lakes. I ended up getting a couple of these boards and they are great,” he says.

“Paddleboarding is a great sport for al‑ most anyone. It is a great cardio workout and a core workout. You can paddle as hard or easy as you want.”

Peace usually goes early morning or late afternoon. “The convenience of the sport is also great. All you need is the board and the paddle. It is easy to put in at any public land‑ ings and easy to take out. The turn around time compared to skulling or kayaking is much shorter, which works out great for me

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and my schedule. I take the kids out with me quite a bit too. I usually get a lot of looks and attention from walkers and spectators along the river and the reservoir with the biggest comment being "I thought you were walking on the water.”

According to him, paddleboarding is a great cross‑training sport, since it works many different muscles and develops bal‑ ance. “Itʼs fun and easy. It is intimidating to a lot of people who first see it,” he admits.

“But you must experience it to feel the re‑ laxing nature it provides.”

Peace compares the sport to Tai Chi, that he also practices to a small extent.

“They share many of the same benefits,” he explains.

Heʼs planning to promote the sport lo‑ cally. “I have been traveling to a lot of little rivers and waterways in the state and hope to offer a paddleboard tour opportunity for individuals soon, including a lot of beautiful spots right here in Richmond. I am also going to participate on a 12‑mile paddle race in July taking place in Virginia Beach to benefit Autism.“

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PLAY BALL! WHILE AN AMATEUR ADULT BASEBALL LEAGUE MAY NOT SEEM CAPA‑ BLE OF HARBORING A STRONG PULSE, REST ASSURED IT DOES̶A PULSE THAT BEATS MORE THAN 200 PLAYERS STRONG HERE IN RICHMOND, BELIEVE IT OR NOT. KYLE TAYLOR, A 25‑YEAR‑OLD REALTOR WITH REMAX COMMONWEALTH, CAN ʼT QUITE SEEM TO ACCEPT IT EITHER.

BY TAYLOR

I

’ve always had a passion for the sport of baseball,” he says, “so when I started to get this going in Richmond [in 2008], I was surprised how fast it took off.” He adds, however, that it was even more surprising to find that anything similar didn’t already exist. “To see the league grow as quickly as it has, has been a huge success in my book.”

NABA Richmond, affiliated with the National Adult Baseball Association, is an amateur wood bat baseball league for people aged eighteen or older. The season, which runs from June through September, is not limited strictly to Richmond fields. “Our teams have opportunities to play in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Florida, and many more,” says Taylor.

“My main goal is to see the league grow so that we are the [right] size and 3 0 | SBQnow.com

strong competition with the DC and Virginia Beach League,”Taylor explains,“and so that our league holds a strong presence in the city of Richmond. I hope to see our teams grow and that the teams we send to tournaments are able to compete nationally.”

Prospective players and eager spectators can find NABA Richmond teams practicing and playing in fields throughout Henrico. “Henrico Recreation and Parks has done an amazing job in allowing us to use the high school fields in the

HODGE

county,” says Taylor. Currently the team frequents fields at Deep Run, Hermitage, Henrico, Highland Springs, and Varina, as well as Dorey Park. The Championship, announced by Bill Knarr, is held at Bowling Green Stadium.

The first of the NABA’s interleague games begins this summer in DC, in which Richmond teams will be playing.

Don’t let the talk of championships and competition intimidate you, however serious as it may seem, the league is, ultimately, all about baseball. “The only requirement to enter the league is that you must be eighteen years of age,” explains Taylor.

Those interested in joining the league or just looking forward to catching a summer game can visit www.nabarichmond.com.

Howl at Howl at the the full m moon oon and and celebrate celebrate the the joy of of cycling cycling at at the the Anthem Anthem Moonlight Moonlight Ride.

Ride. Let Let your your wild wild side side show show by decorating decorating your your bike bikke an winning the the best best bike bike costume costume award. aw ward. There There will also also be prizes prizes for for the the best best decorative decoorative lights lights for for your your bike. bike. The The Anthem Anthem Moonlight Moonlight andd winning Ride starts starts aand nd finishes finishes at at Sports Sports Backers Backers Stadium Stadium and and features features a short short (9 (9 miles) miles) or or a longer longer (18 (18 miles) miles) route route along along Hermitage Hermitage Road Road and annd Ride Monument Avenue.

Avenue. A free free concert concert awaits awaits a riders riders as as they they finish the the ride. ride. There There will be activities activities before before and and after after the the ride, ride, Monument including live live music, music, exhibitors, exhibitors, food, food, an interractive activities. activities. including andd interactive

Anthem Aug.21 8PM

Moonlight Ride sportsbackers.org

Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. trades as Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and its service area is all of Virginia except for the City of Fairfax, the Town of Vienna, and the area east of State Route 123.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.