Youth Runner Magazine Nov-Dec 2015

CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING NOV-DEC 2015 $4.95

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THESE GIRLS ARE REALLY FAST

MARATHON KIDS Celebrating 20 years

Laura Muir and Camille Napier PLUS:YOUTH RUNNER HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

IZZY FAURIA SHE’S SMALL BUT FAST!

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1 | NOV/DEC 2015

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YR MOMENTS THERE’S A LOT GOING ON IN THIS START It looks like these runners at the Valley Youth Conference are just figuring out what happens when the starting gun goes off.

The race was held at the Central Park in Santa Clarita, California.

SMOTHERMAN IMAGES

2 | NOV/DEC 2015

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 3

YR CONTENTS: NOV-DEC 2015

READY.SET.GO IZZY

CHECK IT OUT

FAURIA SMALL BUT FAST!

Vol. 20 issue 5

8

INSTAGRAM FAN SHOTS FALL XC HIGHLIGHTS

16 18

MARATHON KIDS SUBMIT AN ATHLETE

22 27

FEATURE LAURA MUIR 11 CAMILLE NAPIER 13 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

MORE

20

2

PHOTO BY HAR RAI KHALSA

TRAINING SIDE ACHES

6

GUEST EDITOR CASEY LUM

7

YR BLOGGER ESPEN LEHNST

24

CHAMPIONSHIP XC MEET TIPS

YR MOMENTS

14

26

29

POSTER COMING UP

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 5

YR GUEST

EDITOR

VOL. 20 ISSUE 5 | NOV/DEC 2015 PUBLISHER/EDITOR Dan Kesterson EDITOR AT LARGE Ian Kesterson GUEST EDITOR Casey Lum

LETTER FROM THE

GUEST EDITOR

Thank you, cross country.

Thank you for every warm up run, every hill workout, every stride, every bang of the starting gun, every sprint to the finish, every bus ride, every moment spent with my teammates. Thank you for challenging me, making me face obstacles I've never faced before.

Thank you for rewarding me, for letting me feel the glory of finishing, the joy of a PR. Thank you for helping me survive high school.

This week, I’m running districts-- the last meet of my last season of cross country. Looking back, I realize I’m indebted to cross country. It’s made me a stronger, happier person and I wouldn’t give up my experiences in the sport for the world.

Before freshman year, the only time I ran was in P.E. or for soccer. When I joined cross country my first year of high school, I was in for a rude awakening. My first season was hard, but it forced me to start to enjoy running.

EDITOR'S NOTES 6 | NOV/DEC 2015

I also learned a lot about how to run cross country- how to get strong and be injury-free. From there, I’ve learned more and worked harder to keep improving. I know that if I work at it, distance running is something I can do for a long time.

Cross country has also led me to the most amazing people. Some of the strongest, most meaningful relationships I’ve made throughout high school developed running hill workouts, bonding at pasta feeds, and racing and cheering at meets. My teammates are some of the most positive, kind, and supportive people I know. I still keep in touch with juniors and seniors I was friends with when I was a freshman.

My teammates helped me grow as a runner and as a person. My coaches are also amazing individuals that have taught me countless lessons about running and about life.

Cross country has taught me many valuable lessons about patience, positivity, and perseverance. It’s made me stronger, both mentally and physically.

It’s led me to some of my best friends.

I am so grateful to the people I have met and the experiences I have had in my four years of cross country. So thank you, cross country. Thank you for changing me.

Casey Lum

Hey Youth Runners! We hope you're all enjoying the muddy trails and fallen leaves this cross country season. When you take a break, check out our new Youth Runner app for tablets and smartphones. It has so much interactive Youth Running content that you'll wanna put down the phone and go for a run. Stay dry out there... or not (sometimes that's half the fun.)

PHOTOS BY DINGO IMAGES

Casey Lum, Youth Runner Intern & Blogger

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Quincey Hettinger, Espen Lehnst, Mick Grant, Casey Lum, Drew Wasmund, Cregg Wienmann, Jordan Schilit, Lea Paragas, Emma Smith, Jesse Lambrecht, Michael Bergmann, Mike Fleming, Keinan Briggs, Dr. Dean Clark ART DIRECTOR Sean Kesterson CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Eric Skelton PHOTOGRAPHERS Klotz Images, Har Rai Khalsa, Smotherman Images, Nike, Eric Ward, Colleen Thompson, Photo Run, Dingo Images, Tony Wichmann, Alex Barr, Disney, Dingo Images, Sammy Salcedo, Colin Ely, Instagrammers, Fans WEBSITE-DIGITAL-VIDEO Sean Kesterson

THANKS TO: Sponsors, Emily Martin, Jill Zanger, Christine Pollei, Caitlinn Morris, Trey Hardee, Ashley Spencer, Blue Goose Productions ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIPS mediakit@youthrunner.com SUBSCRIPTION RATES US One Year: Print $14.95 Subscribe at www.youthrunner.com PUBLISHED BY: Youth Runner Magazine is a registered trademark of GoSportz Media LLC. Published 5 times a year by GoSportz Media, LLC Copyright 2015 all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. Editorial contributions are welcome, submit queries to editor@ Youthrunner.com. Gosportz Media LLC and it’s publisher assumes no liability for the content or opinion of it’s writers or advertisers and reserves the right to reject any advertising at it’s own discretion.

Youth Runner recommends that you consult with your coach and your physician on any changes with your training, fitness and health issues.

YOUTH RUNNER

BLOGGERS ESPEN'S FAVORITES

Race

YR BLOGGER ESPEN LEHNST

XC RUNNER

My name is Espen Lehnst and I’m a Youth Runner. I am 11 years old from East Lansing Michigan and currently in 6th grade. My favorite hobbies are playing outside with my friends, writing, playing video games and sports. In addition to running I play soccer and basketball. My favorite food is chicken tacos and my favorite movie is Godzilla 2014.

My first experience with running was when I was 9 months old at the Flying Pig Marathon.

I did the 20-foot diaper crawl race and won my heat, even after rolling off the mat. The first race I ever ran was a 5k when I was 5 year old with my Mom, I finished in 36 minutes and fell in love with the sport.

My favorite experience with running is going to Nationals in both track and cross country.

I really enjoy traveling to different states for the events and hanging out with my running friends that I compete against. My best race experience was winning the USATF Cross Country Nationals Bantam 3k last December in South Carolina. I focused all year and worked hard preparing and I ran my best time of the season running 10:23.

My worst race was the 1500 meter in Iowa

at the 2014 AAU track nationals. I had a really poor start and was in last place during the first lap of my heat. I had to really work hard to catch back up and finish 5th place.

Although I was disappointed in how the race started, I was really proud of myself for not giving up and still medaling in the race. I learned that not all races will go as planned but by never giving up and trying your best you can overcome any challenge.

Food

Movie

WHAT ARE ESPEN'S

FAVORITES

Interests

Race: USATF XC Nationals in South Carolina Food: Chicken Tacos Movie: Godzilla 2014 Other Sports: Soccer and Basketball

Fun

Interests: Writing Fun: Video Games My best advice for all youth runners is to always challenge yourself by setting goals and never give up chasing them.

TAG PHOTOS #YOUTHRUNNER

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 7

Klotz Images

Espen Lehnst 6th Grade East Lansing, Michigan

ISABELLA

"IZZY" F AURIA

HAR RAI KHALSA 8 | NOV/DEC 2015

SHE STARTED RUNNING TO SPEND MORE TIME WITH HER FRIENDS AND REALIZED SHE LOVES RUNNING. Q&A WITH IZZY:

YOUTH RUNNER: LET'S START WITH THE RACE ON SATURDAY AT PORTLAND MEADOWS WHERE YOU PLACED 3RD IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS RACE. IT WAS YOUR FIRST TIME ON THE COURSE IN OREGON, YOUR TIME WAS A LITTLE SLOWER THAN YOU USUALLY RUN AND YOU SEEMED DISAPPOINTED. BUT WITH 263 GIRLS IN THE RACE I'M THINKING IT WAS A GOOD DAY. ESPECIALLY WITH LEXY HALLADAY FROM BOISE, IDAHO RUNNING A 10:04.76 FOR THE WIN. IT TAKES A SPECIAL BOWL OF BREAKFAST CEREAL AND EVERYTHING GOING RIGHT TO RUN THAT TIME. THE QUESTION IS, SINCE YOU WERE DISAPPOINTED DID YOU SHAKE IT OFF BY THE TIME YOU GOT TO THE AIRPORT? IZZY: Yes, I was a little disappointed after my race because I knew I didn’t run my best and because I have high expectations for myself. A little while after my race when I had time to reflect I realized I came to this race looking for competition, which I ended up getting. I think it will help me work harder at practice and races and I know I will come back even stronger.

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 9

Anything you really liked about the course?

I liked the course a lot. It was fun because I have never run over hay bales and it was a fun new experience.

Besides the Junior Olympics coming up in New Mexico are any other big meets you are looking forward to this season?

My middle school PAL league Championships is another race that I am looking forward to. I’m hoping to break the Varsity Cross Country record.

What is your typical training like right now? How many miles a week or how many minutes do you run in a daily workout?

I run from 3 miles on an easy day to 6 miles on a harder day. I will start building up my mileage as the Junior Olympic start getting closer.

How many days a week do you run?

My Coach Aaron Rios has me run about 5 days a week.

Other Youth Runners are wondering how you got started in running and how old you were?

UNIQUE, ENERGETIC, ATHLETIC

I was in 4th grade when my school, St Rose, allowed 4th graders to participate in Cross Country. I really didn’t want to run but went out there so I could spend more time with my friends. After winning my first race, I realized I loved the sport.

When you're racing what kind of thoughts are going through your head? Is it all about the race or your homework or what?

I think about the race. I think about when to speed up or trying to keep my steady pace going.

What do you do to prepare for a race?

I have my routine which includes warm up, drills, leg swings, strides and then right before the race I take a few moments to think about the race and my strategy.

What are three things that inspire you to run?

1.The enjoyment of the sport 2. Knowing that you gave it your all.

3. The thrill of winning.

Describe yourself in three words.

Unique, Energetic and Athletic One word.

Competitive.

Favorites: Phone app - Instagram & Snapchat Breakfast Cereal - No cereal, instead ham and egg burrito.

XC Course - Willow Hills in Folsom Running Shoe - New Balance for trainers and Nike for Flats and Spikes School Subject - Lunch…..ha ha English!

Movie -Titanic Things you like to do besides running.

Eat, Sleep and play on my phone!

Other sports you participate in or compete in: Basketball

Any idea on what you want to be when you grow up?

"IT'S NOT ABOUT WHAT PLACE YOU CAME IN...

IT'S ABOUT KNOWING YOU LEFT IT ALL ON THE COURSE AND GAVE IT ALL YOU HAVE" 10 | NOV/DEC 2015

Not yet Your advice for other Youth Runners.

To always have fun and never give up.

It’s not about what place you come in, it's about knowing you left it all on the course and gave it all you have, because running is not a sport, it is a passion.

LAURA MUIR An interview with

and Coach Andy Young

by: Mick Grant a single session. A couple years ago if it was a friend’s birthday or was away on a day trip or even just feeling tired I might miss a session every now and again. Now running comes 100% first and everything else is organized around it

MICK RECENTLY TALKED WITH BRITISH 800 METER RUNNER LAURA MUIR. SHE RECENTLY WAS 5TH AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. SHE STARTED RUNNING AROUND 10 YEARS OLD AND WE THOUGHT YOU’D LIKE TO GET TO KNOW HER. Mick: How old were you when you began running and why did you get into it?

Laura: I must have been about 10 or 11 years old. We had regional cross country races at the end of primary school, I would finish quite high up, not winning but running well and I really enjoyed it so started at an athletics club soon after.

What were the most important factors that helped you stick with the sport and improve?

What advice do you have for young runners in terms of training and balancing multiple priorities?

Be organized. When you have lots of things to do, make a list, then put numbers next to the points in order of importance. On my list training is at the top! I also plan my meals well in advance so that if I am back late from a training session the meal is more or less ready to go avoiding unhealthy fast foods.

Do you still get nervous before races?

What do you tell young athletes about nerves and staying focused?

Number 1 thing - enjoy the sport. When I was younger I barely ever won races only really local school ones. So it was never about the winning for me I just simply really enjoyed running.

So when I moved up age groups and was finishing further down the field I did not find it disheartening. Now that I am winning races that’s a bonus really!

What is your philosophy?

One of my keys to success is ensuring athletes are consistent with their training, it doesn’t have to be huge amounts of mileage or a ton of sessions, but athletes if they want to reach their potential need to do what is scheduled week in and week out without excuses. If something else comes up they need to figure out how they can still get their training done and fit in whatever else they need to do.

What is the most important part of your training now?

Consistency. I train 6 days a week every week not missing

COURTESY PHOTO, CREDIT ALEX BARR, THE BIG PARTNERSHIP

Yes, I still get nervous. It depends on the level of the competition and how important the race is but I think nerves are a good thing as it shows you care about your performances. For young athletes try not to worry too much on the day as this can tire you out mentally and physically but try and enjoy the experience. At the end of the day training is the hard part so try and go out there and enjoy yourself!

Contact Laura or Mick and ask your own questions @lauramuiruns and Mick@funfirst.com. Check out Mick and John’s book “The Youth and Teen Running Encyclopedia” Special thanks to Reto Meier for his help, as well as John Molvar, Mark Behan, Jane Lewis, Keir Murray, BBC, Alex Barr, The BIG Partnership, David Christie, Ewan Mowat, Winning Students/ Alistair Devine, Dundee Hawkhill.

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 11

12 | NOV/DEC 2015

WAY TO GO CAMILLE! CAMILLE NAPIER JOINS CIARA MARTINEZ, JONAH GOREVIC, JJ HERRERA AND OTHER YOUTH RUNNERS WHO HAVE BROKEN WORLD RECORDS RECENTLY. SHE RAN IN THE HOUSTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY 5K BREAKING THE WORLD RECORD FOR 12 YEAR OLD GIRLS OF 18:02 WITH A TIME OF 17:59. SIX DAYS LATER SHE COMPETED IN THE DISNEY NEW BALANCE CROSS COUNTRY CLASSIC TAKING FIRST IN THE WOMEN'S OPEN 5K BEAST DIVISION.

YR: Were you going after the record or just have a really good day?

Camille: I had set my sights on the 5K record after finishing my last 3K during the summer Olympics. I ran a couple of 5Ks around Houston getting close to the record running 18:14 in Alvin, Texas and 18:19 in Conroe, Texas. On October 3rd, I ran in the Houston Baptist University 5K and I got my PR and the world record of 17:59 for 12-year old girls. The Disney Cross Country Classic race was a tough course but I was able to get first place in the open 5K Women's Beast division on Friday, October 9th.

Describe the record, what were you thinking during the race?

In the weeks before I was close, the morning of the HBU race we had a cool front and it felt very nice outside.

Once I got to the race I knew I was going to break 18:00 for the first time.

TO "ONCE I GI OKTNEW I THE RACEG TO BREAK WAS GOIN E 18:00 FORIMTEH" FIRST T

How about the Disney race, were you riding on the record or was it just another race against some fast girls?

I'm in the sixth grade so Disney would not allow me to run with the High school division so I entered in the Open Women's Beast 5K. This race was a mix of all ages and had both Women and Men running together. Of course coming off my new PR I wanted to break it again.

However this course was very difficult with a lot of sand and a huge stretch of hills, I ran 19:15 and was top female. Any time that you are fortunate enough to win you have to be satisfied so I loved it. You can't beat a Mickey Mouse trophy either! I was very excited to get it.

Besides the WR what is your next best race experience so far?

Two come to mind. I set the 3000 meter indoor world record for a 12 year old last March at the Hershey's Indoor Youth Championship with a time of 10:29.52 and the second time would be when I ran in the 2014 Jr. Olympics 4x800 relay with some of my best friends from Track Houston. I was the anchor leg and we won 1st place. This was the most exciting race that I have ever been a part of, it was very close and was in front of my home town of Houston.

Any advice for other Youth Runners?

Make sure you are having fun. You won't win every race but you will get something out of each one.

Anything else you'd like everyone to know about yourself, or the races?

I was born with a rare liver condition and do not know how many years I have to run. I look at each race like a gift and always give everything that I have.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DISNEY

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 13

IZZY FAURIA SMALL BUT FAST “ALWAYS HAVE FUN” AND NEVER GIVE UP. IT’S NOT ABOUT WHAT PLACE YOU COME IN, IT’S ABOUT KNOWING YOU LEFT IT ALL ON THE COURSE AND GAVE IT ALL YOU HAVE, BECAUSE RUNNING IS NOT A SPORT, IT IS A PASSION.” - IZZY FAURIA

HARI RAI KHALSA

14 | NOV/DEC 2015

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 15

XC HIGHLIGHTS Depending on what part of the country you live in, when the weather starts to change and school starts back up you know that Cross Country season is here.

It’s when you and your friends run together as a team but you are still out to beat them every meet. XC is a team sport and an individual sport.

What’s really fun about XC is that you never know how challenging the next course may be.

Some courses are on cushy soft fields of grass and others will take you through river crossings and muddy hills so slick you need to claw your way up to the top.

This year we checked out a crazy course called the Ultimook with a huge mud bog, two river crossings, and trails. Another we went to is the former home of the NXN’s and is now called Nike Portland XC, the hale bales and the whoop-deedoos are still there waiting for you.

Whatever course challenges you this season give it everything you’ve got. We will be going to Foot Locker, NXN’s AAU and USATF Junior Olympics. Hope to see you there!

16 | NOV/DEC 2015

COLUMN 1: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ROADRUNNERS

always bring some competition to their meets.

This one was held at Cal State San Bernadino.

Photos by: Smotherman Images

COLUMN 2: THE HEALTHY KIDS RUNNING SERIES wrapped it up

at this meet in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Lots of happy kids participate in HKRS. Photos by: Colin Ely

COLUMN 3: EISENHOWER MIDDLE SCHOOL XC IN KANSAS shared

these photos from their meets.

Photos by: Tony Wichmann

COLUMN 4: SOUTHERN CA. YOUTH TRACK & FIELD CONFERENCE got to-

gether for a youth meet at Central Park in Santa Clarita.

Photos by: Smotherman Images

COLUMN 5: THE ULTIMOOK INVITATIONAL

is rising up towards the top of our toughest cross country courses in the U.S. It’s got the mud pit, river crossings, trails, but could use more hills.

Photos by: Dingo Images

COLUMN 6: NIKE XC at the former NXN course get some serious middle school and high school competition along with some hay bale jumping and the whoop dee doos.

Photos by: Klotz Images

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 17

INSTAGRAM

FANPAGE

18 | NOV/DEC 2015

KIDS RULE THE WORLD! WE JUST SHOWCASE THEM! HERE ARE SOME OF YOUR BEST SHOTS THIS SEASON! WANNA SEE YOUR OWN PHOTOS IN THESE PAGES? IT'S EASY! ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS HASHTAG #YOUTHRUNNER WHEN YOU POST TO INSTAGRAM!

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 19

YR GEAR

GEARGUIDE GIFT

HOLIDAY WISH LIST 2

0

1

5

FROM OUR BLOGGERS & INTERNS THE LIST WAS LONG BUT HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE ITEMS THAT THE YOUTH RUNNER TEAM IS ASKING FOR THIS YEAR. If you have a specialty running store in your area be sure to give them your support. If not we found most everything on Amazon or each product’s website.

2

NIKE T/F MESH BOMBER WOMEN'S JACKET

1

KANTO CATCH ME RUN JACKET BY LULUMON ATHLETICS $148 A little rain won't get us down! This jacket was designed with wind-and water-resistant Gylde fabric panels, oft, sweat-wicking Rulu™ fabric and 360° reflectivity, we stay dry, cozy and visible when we pound out runs after dark. shop.lulumon.com

20 | NOV/DEC 2015

4

FITSOK RUNNING SOCKS

$65 The Nike T/F Mesh Bomber Women's Jacket helps you stay cool and comfortable with allover mesh in an iconic silhouette.

Mesh fabric gives you ventilated comfort, Zip side pockets secure your small item, Gradated front zip for modern style, Rib mock neck zips up to the chin for coverage and comfort, Raglan sleeves enhance your range of motion, Stretch cuffs and hem for a better fit.

$20 The best of the Fitsok lineup in a fast new hi-viz 3-pack. Each pack of CF2, CX3 or F4 come with a Hi-Lite Green pair, a Blaze Orange pair and Electric Yellow pair. These socks utilize all the same engineering and tech loaded into Fitsock's standard colors. They’ll keep your feet looking as fast as they feel.

store.nike.com

fitsok.com

3

NIKE EPIC LUX PRINTED WOMEN'S RUNNING TIGHTS $94.97 Support your stride with a tight, streamlined fit that stays in place and a smooth feel made for miles. $110 The fabric's higher spandex content adds more stretch, creating a tight, ultra-supportive fit that enhances your range of motion as you run. Sleek Dri-FIT fabric helps keep you dry and comfortable by wicking sweat away to the fabric's surface, where it quickly evaporates. store.nike.com

8

5

MEB FOR MORTALS $15.42 Meb For Mortals describes in unprecedented detail how three-time Olympian Keflezighi prepares to take on the best runners in the world. More important, the book shows everyday runners how to implement the training, nutritional, and mental principles that have guided him throughout his long career, which in addition to the 2014 Boston win includes an Olympic silver medal and the 2009 New York City Marathon title.

ZENSAH COMPRESSION LEG SLEEVES $39.95 These leg sleeves help provide runners and all athletes with calf support, shin splint relief, and decreased fatigue. They are the best selling compression leg sleeves worldwide. zensah.com

amazon.com

6

2XU ALL SEASON RUN GLOVES $22.95 Color: Black, 100% Polyester, Integrated key pocket, The perfect running companion for all conditions, Lightweight, breathable, Quick Drying.

2xu.com

7

9

OLLOCLIP 4-IN-1 QUICK CONNECT LENS

NEVER GIVE UP - MEDAL HANGER

$69.99 Unleash the power of your iPhone camera like never before with an Olloclip 4-in-1, Quick Connect Lens for iPhone 5. This all-in-1 iPhone camera lens has 10x and 15x macro lenses as well as wide and fisheye lenses to perfectly capture all of life's most important moments.

Designed to easily attach to the corner of your phone, the compact design makes it convenient enough to throw in your pocket or purse while on the go. So leave your big bulky camera at home and make your life easier with an easyto-use Olloclip lens.

$49.95 Not sure what to do with all your medals?

You can display them with this cool Medal Hanger. Holds 16-20 medal and you can easily install on your bedroom wall. amazon.com

olloclip.com

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MCFARLAND THE MOVIE DVD

UNBROKEN THE MOVIE DVD

$19.96 The story of Coach Jim White who moved to McFarland California and put together a Cross Country Team that went on to win the CIF-State Championship. It’s a great story and every xc runner should see it.

$11.13 This is about Louis “Louie” Zamperini who was an Olympic runner who survived in a raft for 47 days after a near-fatal plane crash in World War II—only to be caught by the Japanese Navy and sent to a prisoner-of-war camp. It’s a story of courage and of a man who just never gave up.

amazon.com

amazon.com

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 21

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF

MARATHON KIDS TWENTY YEARS AGO the Marathon Kids Run-

ning Program was born in Austin, Texas. Since then over 2million kids have participated in four different states by running the equivalent of one marathon 26.2 miles during the school year. What’s changed is that this year kids have a goal of running the same mileage as four marathons or 104.8 miles. At milestones along the way they’ll receive rewards from the Marathon Kids sponsor Nike to encourage them to their goal. On April 9th, 2016, will be the National Finisher Celebration in Los Angeles recognizing all that Marathon Kids running clubs have accomplished. If you live close to one of these areas, they would love to see you there!

THE KICKOFF

At the Kickoff in Austin kids Mascots led everyone in warm up exercises, Olympian Trey Hardee and Elite Athlete Ashley Spencer talked. Then they lined up and ran a lap to start the journey of 104.8 miles. At the finish the track & field athletes from Texas University cheered them in.

For the cool down kids learned some fun stretching and movements that they can take back to their own schools and do after every run.

22 | NOV/DEC 2015

HOW YOU CAN SIGN UP The Marathon Kids program is based on a unique, low-cost, easy-to-set-up model of incorporating running as part of a school, community organization or family. Through the program, miles are achieved one lap at a time, one day at a time, and tracked by the kids in their MK mileage logs with adult “coaches” challenging kids to reach marathon milestones—26.2 to 104.8 miles—over the course of a running club season (or school year).

You can go to their signup page and get started. marathonkids.org/sign-up/

Nike is proud to partner with Marathon Kids to get more kids running and active for life. Together with Marathon Kids, Nike will help introduce more kids to running in a fun, positive way that will set them on the path for a healthy, physically active lifestyle. This partnership aligns with Nike’s belief in the power of sport and physical activity to help all athletes achieve their full potential. If you have a body, you’re an athlete.

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 23

ASK A

COACH

TIPS FOR:

SIDE ACHES Wondering how to get rid of that side ache or side stitch while you are running? Dr. Dean has some suggestions.

Dr. Dean Clark

Q I HURT IN MY SIDE

Available at your local run specialty store. ©2015 New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. - 15-08775

FILE: DATE: FINISHED SIZE: BLEED: DESIGNER:

NB_860_Third_AustinFit Sep 9, 2015 2.25” x 9.875” .0” all 4 sides C.GOULD / colin.gould@newbalance.com 617.783.6758

24 | NOV/DEC 2015

WHEN I RUN. IT IS NOT EVERY TIME, BUT MANY TIMES MY SIDE ACHES AND MY GUT HURTS OVERALL. DR. CLARK: Many people feel this un-

explained pain. This is most often a distress in the organs of the abdomen.

It is not air trapped in the gut somewhere unless you are belching.

The organ can ache and is tense when you feel your gut. When you run and the abdomen expands and contracts,

the diaphragm can become stressed and create a cramp like response and make the rib cage sore. Sometimes pushing on the abdomen deeply as much as you can stand, and then leaning away from the pain will lessen the effect immediately.

Dr. Dean Clark: Served on the staff of three Olympic Games Medical Teams.

Former Head XC and Track Coach at Stanford University and Oregon State.

Currently the clinic director of Comprehensive Pain Clinic of Portland and team physician for several local high school and college teams.

WANT MORE? Go to “ASK A COACH” at Youthrunner.com for more great answers from coaches.

Abbey D’Agostino Team NB Athlete

The new 860v6.

Each pair is created by us, made by the exhausting, exhilarating, unique miles that every runner gets out of them. With a twin cushioning system, plus stability from top to bottom to allow for 360° support, this new version of the 860 will carry you for more—and more memorable—miles than ever. #MadeByMiles YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 25

ASK A

COACH

TIPS FOR:

CHAMPIONSHIP XC MEETS

Ask a coach how to prepare for post season competitions.

Q I MADE IT TO STATE

AND MY GOALS ARE SET ON REGIONALS AND MAYBE EVEN NATIONALS. SHOULD I BE DOING ANYTHING DIFFERENT IN MY TRAINING?

MIKE: First and foremost enjoy the experience of competing as a team and with yourself. Believe to achieve.

Visualize the race you want to run and reenact it on race day. Your mind is a powerful tool to benefit your

26 | NOV/DEC 2015

Mick Grant: Youth Coach

performance. Use any race anxiety to your advantage and know that all competitors are going to push you to a new level of excellence. Perfect pacing prevents poor performance. Be Pre-Strong! Mental Toughness is a must on this one day. You can do it!!

JORDAN: Advice for big meets: Stay relaxed, and have fun. Be happy that you have the opportunity to race at a championship meet. Be thankful that you're healthy and ready to compete. Focus on doing your best, and leaving all of your energy on the course. Soak up the memories, and enjoy this race just like any other race you've run beforehand. Don't forget to breathe at the starting line (and smile). Good luck!

MICK: Congratulations,

It sounds like you are already good enough to compete in the race, be-

Mike Fleming: Middle School Coach

cause you were invited! Don't lose your focus. Race focus should be on executing your race plan and allowing the other kids help you reach your goals. It is an OPPORTUNITY, not a threat! Everyone is there to improve.

For training, my general advice is Build Base, Learn Pace, Execute the Race. That is to say, put in your miles to develop your aerobic endurance and master your goal race pace. On race day, let the competition help you to be your best. Don't go crazy and over train. You probably have over a month to get ready.

Have Fun!

WANT MORE? Go to “ASK A COACH” at Youthrunner.com for more great answers from these coaches.

Smotherman Images

Jordo Schilit: Professional Athlete

SUBMIT AN

ATHLETE

AIDEN CARICHNER This athlete didn’t break any school records but he did something really good.

When Aiden had an emergency appendectomy he was unable to run track during his freshman year. He couldn’t do any vigorous activity or training for six weeks. Instead of sitting at home waiting to get better, he initiated a shoe drive to collect 100 pairs of used running shoes to donate to the Nike Better World Reuse recycling program. The soles are ground up and the material is used to make tracks and other running surfaces.

Then he found out that his coach was looking for people interested in cheering on athletes with special needs 5K. Aidan couldn't run with his team, so he cheered for the athletes from the sidelines at Walk, Run, Roll.

He also helped by posting the event on media calendars and hanging up flyers. On race day, he marked the course.

Way to Go Aiden!

YOUTH RUNNER TOP-DOG OF THE MONTH TOP DOG OF THE MONTH

#1 SOPHOMORE OHIO XC

FIRST AT MT. SAC

Miguel Angel Pantojas De Jesus, 10

Dustin Horter, 15

Dede Salcedo, 14

San Juan, PR National Champion Miguel holds his age group record for the 400m 600, 800, and 1000 meters in Puerto Rico. He was 3rd at AAU Orlando in the 1500m.

Besides being #1 3200m runner in nation as a freshman Dustin was top 5 in the 1500 and 1600. As a sophomore he is the #1 cross country runner in Ohio. Keep a watch out for Dustin.

Dede hasn’t slowed down since we first met her at the Mt. Sac Invitational she took first place in the Girls 3 Mile D4 and turned in a time of 18:10.

ARE YOU A YR-KID? Let us know what makes you a Youth Runner. Submit an Athlete at: youthrunner.com/ events/athlete/ submit

YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 27

ELITE MIDDLE

SCHOOL

CAMP

AUGUST 6-12, 2O16 OPEN TO BOYS & GIRLS ENTERING 6TH-8TH GRADE THIS FALL LEWIS & CLARK COLLEGE PORTLAND, OREGON

LIMITED TO 6O MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETES SCHOLARSHIPS MAY BE AVAILABLE EMAIL CAMP@YOUTHRUNNER.COM

REGISTER NOW AT: YOUTHRUNNERCAMP.COM PHOTO BY KLOTZ IMAGES 28 | NOV/DEC 2015

COMING UP! HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP MEETS YOU’LL WANT TO ADD TO YOUR CALENDAR:

REGISTRATION

AAU XC AAU CROSS COUNTRY NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP | DANVILLE, AL.| DECEMBER 5th Regional and Association Meets go to aau.youthrunner.com aauathletics.org

HIGH SCHOOL BORDER MEETS BATTLE OF THE POTOMAC | SMOKEY GLEN FARM, VA | NOVEMBER 21st NIKE BORDER CLASH | BEAVERTON, OR | NOVEMBER 22nd

FOOT LOCKER CROSS COUNTRY MIDWEST REGIONAL | KENOSHA, WI. | NOVEMBER 28th NORTHEAST REGIONAL | BRONX, NY. | NOVEMBER 28th SOUTHEAST REGIONAL | CHARLOTTE, NC | NOVEMBER 28th WEST REGIONAL | WALNUT, CA. | DECEMBER 5th NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS | BALBOA PARK-SAN DIEGO, CAL. | DEC 12th

FOR THE DETAILS AND REGISTRATION LINKS GO TO YOUTHRUNNER.COM YOU CAN ALSO CHECK OUR FRIENDS AT COACHO.COM FOR DATES

NIKE CROSS NATIONALS HEARTLAND | SIOUX FALLS, SD | NOVEMBER 15th NORTHWEST REGIONAL | BOISE, IDAHO | NOVEMBER 14th MIDWEST | TERRE HAUTE, IN. | NOVEMBER 15th SOUTHWEST | CASA GRANDE, AZ | NOVEMBER 21st SOUTH | THE WOODLANDS, TX | NOVEMBER 21st SOUTHEAST | CARY, NC | NOVEMBER 28th NORTHEAST-NY | WAPPINGEERS FALLS, NY | NOVEMBER 28th NATIONALS | PORTLAND, OR | DECEMBER 5th

The Leader in Online Registration for Youth Athletics Entries and payments accepted via secure network Technical support available 24-7 Entry fee payments sent out three days after the meet Clients in 47 states and several international countries Combined experience of over 100 years in online registration, software development, Hy-Tek meet management, and event management

We simplify things for you with online registration for youth, college, and masters track meets, sport camps, clinics and cross country meets.

We host online registration for over 2,000 events annually.

USATF JUNIOR OLYMPICS XC NATIONALS | ALBUQUERQUE, NM. | DECEMBER 12th Regional and Association Meets check youth-usatf.youthrunner.com or usatf.org

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD USATF NJ YOUTH INDOOR | TOMS RIVER, NJ | DECEMBER 6th UAGTCA INDOOR DEV MEET 1 | CHESTER, PA | DECEMBER 19th ARMORY YOUTH HOLIDAY CLASSIC | NEW YORK, NY | DECEMBER 20th ARMORY MIDDLE SCHOOL INV | NEW YORK, NY | DECEMBER 22nd COLGATE WOMEN'S GAMES FINALS | NEW YORK, NY | FEBRUARY 13th

Join us.

Success is our partner, not our rival.

coachoregistration.com (865) 255-6548 coacho@coacho.com YOUTHRUNNER.COM | 29

YOUR 5 AGAINST THE COUNTRY.

Test your team’s fitness over 2-miles.

HOKA ONE ONE will provide free

Results determined by average time for top-5 runners.

Register your team at hokaoneonepostalnationals.com

shoes to each team’s head coach.