Run It Fast®

The following is a guest post by RIF #124 Michelle Walker:

Road to Boston

by Michelle Walker

Do you have a bucket list? Do you have goals to check off? My big dream for the past 5.5 years has been to qualify for the Boston Marathon. I thought this would be an easy goal to check off.  With the proper training, I knew I could accomplish this goal 5.5 years ago when I ran my very first marathon in Phoenix, AZ.

When I stepped up to the starting line of the 2007 PF Chang’s RnR Marathon in Phoenix, I was very hopeful that I could qualify. I had never run a marathon before, but I have always been a hard worker. I knew that I put in the proper training to earn a spot at the starting line.  Thanks to the encouragement from one of my fellow travelers, I was even confident that I could achieve my Boston Marathon time goal. When the starting gun was fired, I took off. I ran fast. I ran hard. I was feeling good. The sun was shining; temps were unusually cool; and the course was flat. My “I’m going to Boston” euphoria kicked in right away and lasted until well, just mile 16 where I had my first encounter with the infamous “Wall”. I had 10.2 (and the .2 is significant) miles to go; yet, my legs would not move. They were done. Finished. Kaput.  I was quickly humbled as the pace teams who I had hoped to beat progressively passed me. How was I going to make it to the finish line, let alone finish under a BQ standard?

My first effort to remedy the situation was to grab an energy gel. At this point (mile 17), I was on the brink of nausea. A voice inside my head told me not to take the gel packet the smiling race volunteer handed to me. I had never taken this brand or flavor of gel before: a big “no no” in marathon running. (We are taught to mimic our race day during our training runs. There should be no new elements during the race.) In desperate need for energy, I threw the cardinal rule of marathoning out the window.  I inhaled the Cliff brand gel pack as if it were my ticket to the finish line. My upset stomach immediately revolted. I had to move to the sidelines where I literally started to gag. Hundreds of runners passed me while I tried to regain my running composure. Some how, I kept the contents of my stomach inside, as I alternated between walking and running for the next nine miles. I made it to the finish line, but I did not experience the euphoria that so many runners have when they complete their first marathon. Instead, I felt deflated.

The Boston Marathon is the mecca for many long distance runners. The race has a rich history. Having to qualify with a time from a previous marathon creates an exclusive environment. This race is the big badge of honor in the marathon world. The exclusive entry is coveted by most long distance runners.

Due to the increasing popularity of marathon running, the Boston Marathon has become more stringent on their time qualifications. The marathon has set the bar even higher on its standards, making it more difficult to get in. For example, I am in the 40-44 year old age group for females. When I started marathon running, my qualifying time was 3:50. I spent several years training hard, trying to break the 3:50 barrier. About two years ago, the Boston Marathon tightened everyone’s time qualifications because the race was filling up at record pace. To my dismay, my qualifying time of 3:50 was changed to 3:45. When this change occurred, I must admit. I started to lose hope. A time of 3:45 or less seemed like an impossibility.

After the near disaster first marathon experience, I was on a mission. I would train even harder and eventually qualify for Boston! Ironically, my second marathon proved to be even more of a tragedy than my first. I was unable to complete the race, despite my efforts. I learned quickly that the marathon distance was to be respected. I have never been a natural athlete, but I had no idea how much work was ahead of me in order to check the Boston Marathon from my bucket list.

I spent the next five years of my fitness life working on my running endurance. Granted, I did have a baby during that time but even during my pregnancy I trained (under my doctor’s guidelines). I immediately went back to marathoning after the birth of my sixth child, running the WDW Marathon six months postpartum.

Over time I found the more marathons I ran, the better my endurance. The better my endurance, the faster my marathon times. The infamous “Wall” disappeared as I adjusted to the distance. Since January of 2012, I have run 24 marathons. This high frequency of marathon running is not recommended by the experts. For me, however, it works.

I am fortunate that over my 5.5 years of marathoning, I have never had an injury. Nothing. Nada. For me, the best form of training has been the marathon itself. I found myself using each marathon as a training run for the next race. I kept plugging away; logging marathon after marathon. Progressively, I was getting faster and faster.

Five years and 29 marathons after my first race disaster in Phoenix, something clicked. I started consistently running each of my marathons below the 4 hour time mark. This is generally considered to be a quick pace in the marathon world, but my times were still not meeting the new stringent BQ standards.

It wasn’t until I ventured to the mile high city of Denver (where altitude was a factor) in May of this year that I finally crossed the finish line about 15 seconds under the time I needed to qualify for  Boston. I was elated! It took me 38 marathons; five years and 4 months for my dream to become reality.

Since May, I have run ten other BQ times. Little by little, I am shaving even more time off my marathons. I am occasionally placing in my age group; sometimes even placing as one of the top three overall females in the marathon.

On April 15, 2013 when I step up to the starting line of the Boston Marathon, I am sure I will be flooded with a myriad of emotions. What I originally thought to be a short term goal turned into a very long and arduous journey. My road to Boston is one that I will never trade. I have learned so much about myself during the process of seeing this dream come true. I am not the same person who stepped up to the starting line of a marathon in Phoenix more than 5.5 years ago. The confidence that I have gained by realizing how strong, tenacious and persistent I am has been life changing.

If you don’t already have one, I encourage you to make a bucket list. It is rewarding to have goals. It is even more fulfilling to accomplish the goals through your own efforts, no matter how long the journey. Dream big and work hard!

BQing at Colfax Marathon

***

If you’d like to know more about Michelle, you can follow her on Twitter @MarathonMomof6 and/or check out the profile we did on her here: Run It Fast – Club Member Profile – Michelle Walker #124

RIF #191 Kristy Escue

This week’s Run It Fast – The Club profile is Kristy Escue #191. Kristy is one of our newest members. She recently decided to transform her life and she joined Run It Fast – The Club get motivated to push herself even more and to learn all she can from other members and be inspired. I find her story pretty inspiring too.

Meet Kristy:

INFO

Name: Kristy Escue
RIF #: 191
Blog: Flying With The Unicorns
Twitter: @Kristy_Runs

STATS

Years Running: Consistently 1. Since the end of Sept 2011. 5+ years prior I would just walk/slowly run around my neighborhood to clear my head, try to lose weight & stroll my youngest son around. I was never consistent with it because I didnʼt know anything about pacing, distance or proper hydration. -An idiot runner really.
Favorite Race Distance: So far, 13.1
Favorite PR: GreenLine Half Marathon Oct 14, 2012. PR 1:59:11. My 1st Sub2. 😀

Favorite Race: Well I have two. The Germantown Half Marathon March 2012. That was my 1st race ever. Finishing that was a huge accomplishment for me. I set a semi-high goal of 13.1 because Iʼm very competitive with myself & wanted to see if I could actually do it. I did it in 2:12:57. I love proving things like that to myself. My other favorite was Elvis Presley 5k in our Memphis hometown. I ran it with my 15 year old son Joey. He beat me by 5 seconds lol, but it was a lot of fun. It was his first race & my first 5k. That was a great day.
Favorite Bling: Germantown Half Marathon

Next Race: St. Jude Marathon (1st marathon) December 2012, then Swamp Stomper 50k January 2013.
What Makes You FEEL Fast?: lol Ridiculous music, crowd cheering, & sometimes funky color shoes.

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

Who inspires your running and why?
A lot of people Iʼve met on Twitter have really helped inspire & motivate me, but I think my family & myself are the main inspiration. I want to be healthy & fit – Not just for myself, but for my kids, my husband & the future. My original goal was to lose weight & get active again. So far Iʼve lost 53 pounds & am finally feeling good about my size again.

Which of your running routes makes you the happiest and why?
Running trails makes me the happiest. Nature, water, birds cheering me on, challenging terrain. I donʼt know… itʼs a great time to reflect. I love trails.

What is the thing you splurge on after a race?
I donʼt really splurge on food anymore, but I always have my chocolate whey protein shake.

Why do you race?
To push myself faster & farther, to set & reach a new goal, to inspire others who think running is impossible. I used to think the same thing until I learned itʼs not about speed, miles, or time, itʼs about the journey & accomplishing something for yourself. For me, the journey has completely changed my life.

What was your biggest “donʼt” of a race?
Never start out too fast.

Whatʼs your pre-race routine?
I always gather clothes & gear to have ready the night before. After Iʼm dressed I sit outside a few minutes, sip my coffee, appreciate the day & reflect on my goal. A small pep-talk to myself usually happens. Sometimes Iʼll have a banana or small bowl of oatmeal. I know some say oatmeal pre-race is a no-no, but it works for me.

What running moment are you most proud of?
Finishing my first Half Marathon this year was a BIG deal. Iʼd never raced anything before. Iʼve been on a relentless lifestyle change & was losing weight consistently, but still felt 13.1 might be a little out of reach. Iʼm learning to stop doubting myself because I know I can do just about anything I put my mind to.

We asked Kristy if there’s anything else she’d like the rest of the club to know and she had this to say:
If I were asked to give one piece of advice to a new runner or a ʻwanna be runnerʼ it would simply be to never give up. Just because you donʼt know ʻhowʼ to run, or ʻthinkʼ you canʼt, doesnʼt mean you physically canʼt.. it simply means that you just have to find a way to make it work. Walk then run, walk more, run more. Get out there & stop making excuses why you canʼt. Stop worrying if people are judging you because of your size, age or speed… no one cares about any of that. Itʼs between you and yourself. If you want it, go get it. You CAN become the runner you want to be.

***

I loved this interview with Kristy. We can learn so much from all the club members who have run dozens of marathons and ultras but some of the best lessons/reminders come from those who have just started their journey. Kristy has a lot of great lessons in her interview like “itʼs about the journey & accomplishing something for yourself” and “Stop worrying if people are judging you because of your size, age or speed”. I love this quote the most: “Iʼm learning to stop doubting myself because I know I can do just about anything I put my mind to.” That is one of the best lessons you can learn from running. Running is empowering and gives you confidence to do things you never thought possible. You can see that Kristy really believes that too because not only did she sign up for her first marathon but her first ultra too! You go girl!

Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished so far Kristy! Thank you for taking the time to share with us and good luck at St. Jude!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

Run It Fast – The Club (JOIN TODAY)

[All photos submitted by Kristy Escue]

Kenneth Williams #28

This week’s Run It Fast – The Club profile is Kenneth Williams #28. Kenneth, aka MarathonKoach, has been running for a long time and has traveled the world to do it! But it’s not about what he gets from running that matters most to him…it’s what he can give back.

Check out his amazing story:

INFO
Name:  Kenneth Williams
RIF #:    28
Website:  www.team26pt2.com
Twitter: @marathonkoach
Facebook: Kenneth Williams

STATS
Years Running:  35
Favorite Race Distance: The marathon
Favorite PR:  I ran two 3:34s at age 66.  They were only 9 minutes off my marathon PR, 25 years before.
Favorite Race:  Coke 10k, Corinth, MS.  I’m founder and Race Director of the 32 year old 10k

Favorite Bling:  Boston Medallion

Next Race:  Dublin Marathon, Dublin Ireland.  Oct. 28th
What Makes You FEEL Fast?:  Getting a Boston Qualification!

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

Who inspires your running and why?
My runners!  I coach (Koach) marathoners and have for years. It gives me a huge thrill to see runners accomplish a life-goal like finishing a marathon (or qualifying for Boston).  It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.  (I have my RRCA Coaching Certification and I coach free, but often my quota is full)

If you could go for a run with any famous person (living or dead), who would it be and why?
One of my running heroes came tipping up beside me at the Germantown Half Marathon a couple of years ago.  “Boston Billy” Rogers.  We chatted for 5 minutes or so before he eased away.  Obviously, he was just out for a morning jog, but it gave me a thrill!  Like most world class runners, he was so nice and personable.

What is the strangest/funniest thing you’ve ever seen while running?
I was deep in the bush in Africa a few years back and determined to run.  After a few dusty miles, I glanced over my shoulder to see a pack of wild African Cape Hunting Dogs jogging along just off to my side. Don’t know who it frightened more, me or my guide who came rushing to get me in a jeep.  I’ll never forget the sight of seeing the feared pack of wild dogs.

What’s the most beautiful place that you’ve run? 
The most beautiful sight I’ve seen was at the Kilimanjaro Marathon a couple years ago. I was running up a gradual 6 mile ascent and a part of the great mountain broke free from her usual cloud cover and appeared like a gigantic mirage, covering a good portion of the horizon. Awesome sight.

Which of your running routes makes you the happiest and why? 
We have a challenging stretch of highway near my community called Hwy 350.  It’s very difficult, but has taken on rather a cult following of area runners.  New runner’s goals are to “get good enough to where I can run on #350”. We run it every Saturday, sometimes with as many as 30 runners of all abilities.

What running moment are you most proud of? 
I over-took my friend and running student, Joy, at the 25 mile mark in Memphis and begged, fussed and screamed her to a BQ.  She had to have a sub 3:40 and ran a 3:39:54.  I followed her across at 3:39:57.

***

There were a lot of very cool things in Kenneth’s profile (hello? Kilimanjaro…WOW!) but the one thing that stood out the most is that his proudest moment was about another runner’s achievement. Loved that! He is using his experience as a runner to help other runners achieve their dreams and goals. And he not only encourages his runners but countless others as well with his Coke 10K. The other thing I loved about his responses is all the adventures he’s had with running…and outside of running too. From running in wild places like Africa to kayaking, scuba diving, and sky diving! That’s the kind of life I want to live! Here’s one more photo of him to inspire you. 🙂

Live your dreams!

Thanks for sharing Kenneth and good luck at Dublin (I’m SO jealous!). Run It Fast!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

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[All photos submitted by Kenneth Williams]

Carmen Hudson #93

This week’s Run It Fast – The Club profile is Carmen Hudson #93. Carmen is our first international RIF Club member to be profiled! One of the great things about running and RIF – The Club is that there are no boundaries. A runner is a runner no matter where they are and that brings us all together!

So let’s meet Carmen from Canada:

INFO

Name: Carmen Hudson
RIF #: 93
Twitter: @carmenh18

STATS

Years Running: 3
Favorite Race Distance: 1/2 Marathon
Favorite Race: Miami ING Marathon

Favorite Bling: Miami spinning medal

Next Race: Banff Winterstart
What Makes You FEEL Fast?: That cool down jog after speedwork. You look at your pace and realize that your “jog” is actually faster than race pace. Always feels awesome!
     

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

What’s the most beautiful place that you’ve run? Right here in Medicine Hat Alberta. The Fall season in my fair city is truly spectacular with the changing of the leaves. Breathtaking running along the river.

What is your favorite go-to pre-race meal? Sprouted grain toast with almond butter and banana

Why do you race? I love the feeling of camaraderie. The cheering volunteers always bring tears to my eyes.

What is the one piece of running gear you can’t leave the house without? My garmin. It’s my pace buddy!

What was your biggest “don’t” of a race? Don’t try anything new on race day!!

What running moment are you most proud of? My first race. It was slow and painful. But it was my start into a new journey, a new and healthy addiction.

***

I have to share with you a story that Carmen shared with me: Carmen told me about how when she first started running, the running group she’d joined wasn’t ideal for a starting runner (not a lot of support and not a lot of information). But there was one runner in the group who took her under his wing and helped her train for her first 5K. She recently returned the favor and helped him train for his first half marathon! I know that the support and encouragement from all the Run It Fast Club members means a lot to her…and me as well. Sometimes that kind of support and encouragement is all someone needs to keep going instead of giving up. We can all remember how frustrating running can be when we start out, right? But if we can offer encouragement to a new runner or answer their running questions, we just might be able to get them to a point where they enjoy running and get to feel that same sense of accomplishment that Carmen felt after her first race. And started her healthy “addiction”. 😉

Thanks for sharing Carmen! Good luck at the Banff Winterstart!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

Run It Fast – The Club (JOIN TODAY)

[All photos submitted by Carmen Hudson]

Todd Shadburn #35

This week’s RIF Club profile is Todd Shadburn #35! Todd just became a newly minted ultrarunner! He completed the North Face Endurance Challenge 50K on Saturday, September 15, 2012 in Madison, WI. Welcome to the ultra club Todd!

Let’s see what else Todd has been up to:

INFO

Name: Todd Shadburn
RIF #: 35
Facebook: Todd Shadburn

STATS

Years Running: 6
Favorite Race Distance: All of them!! 🙂 But if I have to pick: the marathon!!
Favorite PR: 3:56 at the Mississippi Blues Marathon 2012, Jackson MS  – 1st time I broke the four hour mark in a marathon, music was great also!!!
Favorite Race: Memphis St. Jude Marathon – Love running for St. Jude Kids. It was my first marathon and I have run four times as a St. Jude Hero 🙂
Favorite Bling: Ha- I like them all!  I hang them all up in my office, this is as close as I can get to being an artist! 🙂 
Next Race: In the morning, North Face Endurance 50K, Madison WI my first Ultra and Indianapolis Marathon in October.
What Makes You FEEL Fast?: Easy question – Extra bold Starbucks coffee before a morning run and a rocking playlist on my I-Pod: Tom Petty & The Heart Breakers, U2, Foo Fighters, 3Doors Down, Black Keys and Red Hot Chili Peppers are some of my favorites 🙂 
 
FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

Why do you race? About seven years ago, on a business trip to Indianapolis, I developed a blood clot in my left leg.  I got it checked out in the emergency room and thankful it is was not too serious.  After I recovered I took up running and living a more healthy life style.  I wanted to set a good example for my two boys of how to take care of yourself and have balance in your life. 
 
Who inspires your running and why?  My two boys Jake and Zach!!  Dean Karnazes, Ultra Marathon Man – First running book I ever read 50/50, which motivated me to run.  I got to meet Dean in Nashville this year in Nashville at the Country Music Marathon, great guy and incredible athlete.  Dean gave me some advice “Never Stop Running”!  Joshua Holmes, met him several years ago before the club at a couple of races (maybe the Tupelo Marathon), always friendly and encouraging!!  Joshua is very inspirational but I have often wondered if he is really a cyborg or a machine the way he knocks out the miles!!  Haha   

Todd and Dean Karnazes

 Todd and Joshua RIF #1

If you could go for a run with any famous person (living or dead), who would it be and why?  Maybe Dean!  90% of the races I run in, I don’t know anyone, so I really enjoy running with our RIF Club, Carmel IN running club and people from work – Anthony Ohrey (RIF), David Beach and Robert Eaton.  Really famous enough people for me.  

Anthony RIF #27, Todd, and David.

What running moment are you most proud of?  Ha – My most proud running moment has nothing to do with a PR or what place I got during a race.  It was my son’s Jake’s first big 5k race, the Gibson Guitar 5k charity race in Memphis down Beale Street.  At the beginning of the race, he asked me if he could run it alone.  I struggled with it but I agreed!!  When the race started, he shot out like a bullet and it nearly killed me trying to keep him in sight.  About mile 2 he was exhausted and I passed him, encouraging along the way but I ran on up shortly ahead to give him his freedom.  As the finished line approached, Jake yelled, “hey dad wait up and let’s cross the finish line together”. ”.  As the finish line came in sight, Jake bolted for the finish line to beat me across!!  We both ran with everything we had while the crowd cheered and a photographer took the photo below.  My favorite photo of the two of us and my one and only FB profile picture!!  Just can’t change it!! 🙂

 ***

I think a lot of us started out running for health reasons – to manage weight, blood pressure, pain or chronic illness, or because of a scare like Todd had. Luckily, some of us come to love running for itself…just like Todd has. His enthusiasm for our sport is infectious. 🙂 He also has great taste in running music, friends, and inspirations! And what a great photo of him and his son at the 5K. THAT is how you Run It Fast!

Thanks for taking the time to let us get to know you, Todd. Good luck at the Indianapolis Marathon and Run It Fast!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

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[All photos submitted by Todd Shadburn]

Michelle Walker #124

This week’s RIF – The Club profile is Michelle Walker #124. I had the pleasure of meeting Michelle at the Leading Ladies Marathon in August. I also got to see her take home some age group bling at that race! It was at that race that I also realized Michelle is a Marathon Maniac (and I heard she reached Platinum/ 8 -Star status – Woo! Congrats!) so she obviously runs A LOT of marathons. I thought it would be fun to see which ones were her favorites…and how she finds the time.

Meet Michelle, the marathoning machine:

INFO

Name: Michelle Walker
RIF #: 124
Twitter: MarathonMomof6
Facebook: Michelle Moreland Walker

STATS

Years Running: Marathons – 5.5 years, Half Marathons – 8 years, Shorter Distances – 25 years
Favorite Race Distance: 26.2 – The marathon distance never fails to provide me with a challenge, even after running 48 marathons.
Favorite PR: Leading Ladies Marathon – 3:35:20
Favorite Race: Missoula Marathon
Favorite Bling: Minneapolis Marathon (2011), Leading Ladies Marathon (2012), Rock n Roll Mardi Gras (2012)

Next Race: Omaha Marathon – Sep 23
What Makes You FEEL Fast? Breaking race time barriers I once thought to be impossibilities.

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

What’s the most beautiful place that you’ve run? Missoula, MT: I love the West and its jaw dropping, natural beauty.

Have you ever worn a costume during a race? What was it and for what race? The 2011 Marine Corps Marathon was held the day before Halloween. Thinking many runners would be in costume, I dressed up as a bumblebee. To my dismay, very few runners were in costume. Once the race started, so many people (spectators, Marines, and other runners) were cheering for the bee that I felt like an entertainer rather than a runner. The positive reinforcement I received from the bumblebee costume encouraged me to dress up more. I helped pace the 2011 RnR Las Vegas Marathon in a Mrs. Claus outfit.

What is the thing you splurge on after a race? Starbucks’ Mocha Light Frappuccino! Actually, I’m addicted to Frappuccinos and have one almost daily after a workout. (Who needs chocolate milk when you can buy a $5 Frappuccino? :)) After a race, I really indulge – adding the whipped cream and chocolate drizzle.

Why do you race? I have six kids! Yes, that’s right: a half dozen! Being the mother of six is often stressful and overwhelming. Training and participating in races not only serves as my stress reducer, but it fulfills my need for accomplishing measurable goals. My family and I have greatly benefitted from my passion for running.

Big races or small races? Why? I prefer mid size races. I enjoy the social experience of the marathon. A medium sized race allows me to meet and connect with people, without feeling lost in the crowd.

What is the one piece of running gear you can’t leave the house without? My iPod Shuffle! Music motivates me! My running playlist is filled with fast, upbeat music. I have opted not to pace marathons because I am too reliant upon my music to get me to the finish.

What running moment are you most proud of? I was the third overall female to finish the 2012 ET Marathon. I am especially proud of this accomplishment because I wasn’t feeling well during most of the race. I had forgotten my headlamp, as well as the suggested hydration. Despite feeling dehydrated and nauseated, I met my goal time. When I crossed the finish line, I realized I had a mental toughness that I previously didn’t know existed.

***

So…Michelle has run 48 marathons so far…and she has 6 kids! It kind of makes any excuse about not running I might have fly right out the window! What I find very cool about Michelle is that even after 48 marathons, she is still excited about running them, having fun (like the bee & Mrs Claus costumes!), and pushing hard at each marathon. She’s setting PRs and bringing home age group awards. Here’s one more of Michelle at the Tupelo Marathon with some of that very bling:

Thanks for sharing Michelle. Good luck and I know you’ll Run It Fast at the Omaha Marathon!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

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[All photos submitted by Michelle Walker and Joshua Holmes]

#27 Anthony Ohrey

This week’s Run It Fast – The Club member profile is #27 Anthony Ohrey! I bet you didn’t know Run It Fast – The Club had superheroes in it? Well, there are quite a few! And Anthony is just one of them. There’s even a picture for proof! So read on to meet this week’s superhero, Anthony:

INFO

Name: Anthony Ohrey
RIF #: 27
Facebook: Anthony Ohrey

STATS

Years Running: 2.5 years
Favorite Race Distance: Half marathon
Favorite PR: Lexington KY half marathon 2011  1:41:55  third in age group
Favorite Race: Mercedes Benz Half Marathon

Favorite Bling: St. Jude Country Music Marathon Nashville (1st full marathon)

Next Race: Southern Plunge half/full marathon
What Makes You FEEL Fast?: Having strangers on a course yelling encouraging words during any race!

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

What is the strangest/funniest thing you’ve ever seen while running?  I was running in the Mercedes Benz Half Marathon 2011 and it started to warm up to where runners were dropping coats and scarfs off.  A lady about ten feet in front of me had seen a guy drop a Northface  vest and stopped to pick it up.  She said “Oh look, it’s a Northface vest!”  put it on and started running with it.  I thought that it was a little tacky since the clothes left during a race were going to people in need.

Have you ever worn a costume during a race? What was it and for what race? If not, would you?  I went as Captain America to the Warrior Dash 2011 in Manchester TN.  I’m a really big comic geek and had seen the Captain America movie before and I decided to run as him.  I bought a mask and a plastic shield because I had seen pictures of people dressed in all sorts of outfits.  I fit right in!  It was a blast and I plan to break out the costume again (not sure when though).

What is your favorite go-to pre-race meal? I really love a Snickers bar and Monster before 5Ks and half marathons.  I have a blueberry muffin before a marathon.

What is the thing you splurge on after a race?  Chinese food.  I really love Chinese!!!!

Big races or small races? And why?  I really enjoy the small races that have more of that hometown feel like the Coca Cola 10K in Corinth, MS.  It has a very good turnout and all the people are very friendly.  The big races are cool but sometimes it feels like you get lost in all the people!

Anthony with RIF #35 Todd Shadburn

What is the one piece of running gear you can’t leave the house without?  MP3 player.  The music helps move me to the finish line.

What running moment are you most proud of?  I’m most proud of my first marathon in Nashville.  I started off great sticking to my plan of trying to pace myself.  About mile 14 or 15 my legs started to cramp.  By mile 18 I was cramping bad.  I would walk a little and stop, walk a little more and stop and stretch, then try and run some more but I could not go far.  I wanted to stop and just give up but I worked through it and with the help of another runner towards the end I was able to finish my first marathon.

If you can’t run, you’re ________? Prob working.

Finally, is there anything else you would like the rest of the club to know that we didn’t cover in the questions? I really enjoy being part of Run It Fast.  Everyone in the club is a valuable asset to ask questions, get information, and great people. I have met some of the most inspiring people through this club and they have given me helpful advice for my running. I think that I wouldn’t have tried any longer distances than half marathons if it wasn’t for RIF.  Its great to see everyone always encouraging each other and helping out where they are needed.  Thanks

RIFers at The Jackal

Anthony with RIF #4 Marj Mitchell

***

Having just run as Minnie Mouse at the Disneyland Half Marathon, I am so happy to see another RIF – Club member has also run in a costume. I was beginning to think no one else had. Kudos to Anthony for having fun as Captain America! The best part…he is his own hero. Not only did he not plan on ever running a marathon, but he finished one under tough circumstances. Just goes to prove: we can do more than we think we can…and that is what Run It Fast is all about.

Thanks for sharing Anthony and I hope you share photos of your next race in a costume. Good luck at the Southern Plunge and Run It Fast!

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[All photos submitted by Anthony Ohrey]

Joshua Holmes  (RIF #1) has taken the lead in the Extreme Racer Standings with 889 points thanks to his epic 314 mile run at Vol State 500K in July!  Hideki Kinoshita (RIF #88) is in second place with 813.2 points.

In third place overall is Emily Conley (RIF #24) who is leading the women with 426.4 points.  She is followed on the women’s board by Diane Bolton (RIF #159) with 377.8 points and Laura Raeder (RIF #20) with 340.8 points. David Wingard (RIF #101) is in third place on the men’s board with 365.4 points.

Each runner is awarded 1 point for each race mile. (More details HERE)

Top Ten Overall
1.   Joshua Holmes – 889  (RIF #1)
2.   Hideki Kinoshita – 813.2  (RIF #88)
3.   Emily Conley – 426.4  (RIF #24)
4.   Diane Bolton – 377.8  (RIF #159)
5.   David Wingard – 365.4  (RIF #101)
6.   Laura Raeder – 340.8  (RIF #20)
7.   Scott Stader – 304.6  (RIF #40)
8.   Heather Shoemaker – 303  (RIF #44)
9.   Robin Mancinelli – 298.3  (RIF #134)
10.   Rick Jarvis – 296.8  (RIF #18)
 
Men’s Leader Board
1.   Joshua Holmes – 889  (RIF #1)
2.   Hideki Kinoshita – 813.2  (RIF #88)
3.   David Wingard – 365.4  (RIF #101)
4.   Scott Stader – 304.6  (RIF #40)
5.   Rick Jarvis – 296.8  (RIF #18)
6.   Alvin Lee – 250.6  (RIF #30)
7.   Jason Howard – 242.7  (RIF #150)
8.   David Donald – 203.96  (RIF #54)
9.   Wade Anderson – 170.6  (RIF #22)
10.   Jonathan Bobbitt – 154.4  (RIF #3)
11.   Kevin Leathers – 143  (RIF #12)
12.   Trent Rosenbloom – 141.6  (RIF #57)
13.   Nicholas Norfolk – 139.01  (RIF #116)
14.   Rick Thiounn – 125.4  (RIF #111)
15.   Perry Ligon – 123.3  (RIF #146)
16.   Dennis Arriaga – 86.56  (RIF #140)
17.   Mark Sikkila – 84.1  (RIF #108)
18.   Naresh Kumar – 83.4  (RIF #2)
19.   John Hudson – 79.6  (RIF #63)
20.   Brian Wooldridge – 74.8  (RIF #141)
21.   Robin Robbins – 71.9  (RIF #33)
22.   Victor Fleitas – 71.12  (RIF #21)
23.   Scott Lochridge – 65.5  (RIF #32)
24.   Stewart Crouch – 64.8  (RIF #89)
25.   JD Leman – 39.3  (RIF #139)
26.   Steven Reagan – 31  (RIF #157)
27.   Nathan Bass – 29.5  (RIF #174)
28.   Scott Gorski – 25.5  (RIF #107)
29.   Mark Watson – 24.9  (RIF #173)
30.   Kevin Ronayne – 19.3  (RIF #11)
31.   Chris Nelson – 19.3  (RIF #135)
32.   Patrick Johnson – 10  (RIF #87)
33.   Josh Liggett – 9.32  (RIF #147)
 
Women’s Leader Board
1.   Emily Conley – 426.4  (RIF #24)
2.   Diane Bolton – 377.8  (RIF #159)
3.   Laura Raeder – 340.8  (RIF #20)
4.   Heather Shoemaker – 303  (RIF #44)
5.   Robin Mancinelli – 298.3  (RIF #134)
6.   Nadia Ruiz Gonzales – 267.1  (RIF #69)
7.   Mikki Trujillo – 250  (RIF #13)
8.   Lisa Gonzales – 233.5  (RIF #5)
9.   Michelle Mitchell – 230.4  (RIF #133)
10.   Jennifer Whitley – 184.9  (RIF #160)
11.   Alicia Eno – 173.4  (RIF #126)
12.   Daniela Obregon – 107.7  (RIF #49)
13.   Nicole Knutson – 104.8  (RIF #47)
14.   Donna Pittman – 102.7  (RIF #181)
15.   Amber Goetz-Bouchard – 64.55  (RIF #15)
16.   Christy Bowers – 57.2  (RIF #60)
17.   Marj Mitchell – 48.8  (RIF #4)
18.   Lisa Edwards – 44.9  (RIF #122)
19.   Natalie Torres – 42.4  (RIF #72)
20.   Meredith Yox – 24.7  (RIF #128)
21.   Debra Jacildo – 17.39  (RIF #98)

Thanks to everyone who submitted their points so far! It’s exciting to see how much everyone is running!

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Nicholas Norfolk RIF #116

This week’s RIF Club member profile is Nicholas Norfolk #116. Nicholas is another Marathon Maniac which is amazing considering the short time he’s been running! Kind of makes me feel like a slacker. But seriously, he is an awesome runner. Better than that, he is a huge presence on Twitter. He’s always encouraging other runners, tweeting great articles, and sharing fun races. He’s a great inspiration to the running community and has a fun attitude about running, which you probably noticed from the picture above and you’ll see in his answers below:

INFO
Name: Nicholas L. Norfolk
RIF #: 116
Blog: http://www.icedotathletes.com/author/nlnorfolk/
Twitter: @absolut_zer0
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nlnorfolk

STATS
Years Running: 2

Favorite Race Distance: Half marathon

Favorite PR: This is also my worst PR. The mile at the Go! Mile. Why? I didn’t know what it was like to push myself to the brink. I ran hard and although I reached my goal, it was not without consequence. It was the first time I ever thought I was going to pass out. The world was spinning. It was like I had an out-of-body experience. I left it all out there and for that I’m proud. Now, I’m hesitant to do it again. I may actually pass out next time.

Favorite Race: Jesse is Awesome Half Marathon / Soaring Wings Half Marathon – Both are races that exemplify why we race. Both RDs create an atmosphere that we cherish. I get to witness friends achieving goals and I can cheer them. You don’t run these races. You experience them.

Favorite Bling: 5th Mississippi Blues Marathon – A nice, quality medal and it was my Marathon Maniac qualifying race.

Next Race: Full mOOn Midnight 50k

What Makes You FEEL Fast? This is one of those questions for the “fast” people, right? Do I get to pass on this one? When I feel my hair blowing in the wind I feel fast, but that could also just be the wind blowing fast, eh? I got it! When I “sprint” to the finish. I feel my body take over and my mind reluctantly obeys.

FUN RUNNING QUESTIONS

Who inspires your running and why? Similar to what Ivan Drago said in Rocky VI, I run “For me! For me!” This may sound like a selfish statement, but it’s the truth. Before I became part of the running community, knew about races, or had any idea of the great, elite runners, it was only me.

Each day we all inspire at least one person. You know the answer to this. We inspire ourselves. For if we don’t inspire ourselves, how can one inspire someone else? I love running, but I love inspiring others even more. The will to inspire myself is just as important to my personal well being as it is for me to inspire and motivate my fellow runner.

If you could go for a run with any famous person (living or dead), who would it be and why? I’d love to run with Ted Corbitt. He affected running in so many ways. He’s been called “the father of long distance running.” Not only did he compete, win races, and hold records, but he also gave back.

He served as president of the RRCA and founding president of the New York Road Runners (NYRR). His prowess in running can only be overshadowed by his dedication to the sport. He was instrumental in the growth of the sport at a time when it was unpopular. He was a force to be reckoned with and his legacy lives on through us all. I can only imagine the treasure of knowledge he possessed.

Have you ever worn a costume during a race? What was it and for what race? If not, would you? I have yet to wear a costume for a race, but I definitely would. I enjoy having fun and I think adding a costume to the mix would be great. Not sure if I have the body for some of those costumes, but I’m working on it. I’m telling you I could rock a skort! LOL!

What is your favorite go-to pre-race meal? I’m a seafood guy, so my staple meal is salmon, baby carrots, broccoli, and rice pilaf.

What is the thing you splurge on after a race? I’m not really the splurging type, but if sleep counts as a splurge, that’s what I indulge in.

Big races or small races? And why? I crave the intimacy of small races. I’ll do a big race if I must, which is mainly with friends, but they can get out of hand. Who wants a generic race with generic swag? It’s personal to me. That’s why I love trail races. We look out for one another. The goal for everyone is to finish, but we all want to slay the beast! If I can help someone do that, I’m thrilled to do so.

What is the one piece of running gear you can’t leave the house without? I sweat like crazy, so I need my headband and something to organize my hair. It’s not fun to run when you can’t see because of sweat or hair.

What running moment are you most proud of? Albeit stupidly, I set a goal to run 50 races, including all of the Arkansas Grand Prix Series races. Yes, I did it, but my body has yet to forgive me for the torture I put it through. It was a great way for me to spend my rookie season in the series and to learn about the different races, towns, and people scattered across the great state of Arkansas.

***

I think it’s awesome how Nicholas throws everything he has into something, whether it’s at the Go! Mile or doing that 50 race goal. He is living my favorite mantra: Go Big or Go Home. I also agree with Nicholas when he says we have to inspire ourselves first. No one can run for us. Friends might get us started running or make it fun but in the long run (pun intended…sorry! 😉 ), it’s our own drive that gets us out the door when we are tired or busy. Find what inspires you and remember it for those days when you don’t feel the energy or desire to run.

Thanks for sharing, Nicholas. Good luck at the Full mOOn Midnight 50K! Run it fast!

If you’d like to join Run It Fast – The Club or would like more information about it, please click this link:

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[All photos submitted by Nicholas Norfolk]

Hideki Kinoshita (RIF #88) is back on top of the Extreme Racer Standings with 681.6 points.  Joshua Holmes (RIF #1) is in second place with 575 points.

Third place is Emily Conley (RIF #24) who is leading the women with 426.4 points.  She is followed on the women’s board by Laura Raeder (RIF #20) and Nadia Ruiz Gonzales (RIF #69).

Each runner is awarded 1 point for each race mile. (More details HERE)