JUNE 2018
VOLUME 48, ISSUE 6
TRACK TIME NEWS Â ST. LOUIS TRACK CLUB
UPCOMING SOCIAL RUN/WALKS Third Monday of the Month June 18 Schlafly Bottleworks July 16 Schlafly Tap Room Come out and run or walk 3 or 6 miles with other club members and stay for a free pour of Schlafly beer or cider afterwards!
NEW! Trail Run Second Thursday of the Month June 14 Castlewood July 12 Castlewood No trail experience necessary! All paces welcome. Choose between 3 mile and 6 mile routes.
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6136 Southwest Ave St. Louis, MO 63139 314-781-3926 office@stlouistrackclub.com The Saint Louis Track Club encourages running and walking for people of all ages and abilities. Board of Directors
Race Directors
Rae Mohrmann - President John Harwell - Vice Pesident Renee Parks - Secretary Luke Padesky - Treasurer Amy Cadman Matt Coriell Craig Lindgren Bob Maher Jeff McPherson Jack Riegel Kate Stewart Steve Wasserman
Pace Series Don Denham and Oz Harper Corps of Discovery Mike Orrico St. Louis Half Marathon Kevin Jokisch Marathon Relay Rae Mohrmann and Paul McGee Frostbite Series Mike Bahr and Bob Chitwood
Staff Maggie Siemer - Executive Director Anna Jones - Webmaster ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The Track Time News is produced monthly. Reproduction of this newsletter in any form is strictly prohibited without the permission of the St. Louis Track Club.
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FROM THE PRESIDENT:RAE MOHRMANN Does running define you? For myself, I hope not. Running is a big part of my life along with running related activities like coaching and volunteering but I enjoy other things too. I am a voracious reader and that's what I'd like to talk to you about this month. Over the years I have had several friends write books and to be honest, it has been painful to get through their story from beginning to end. This book is different. I even knew the story of Running into the Dark and still couldn't put it down so I decided to share the story with you. Jason, the author, and his girlfriend, Donna Marie and I met near the start during the Colfax marathon in Denver, CO in May of 2012. Jason's enthusiasm was infectious and I wondered how many miles he could remain so "up!" We began to talk and by mile 20, we all had each other's stories. While we all have one, his a bit more amazing than most. Diagnosed in his early teenage years with retina pigmentosa, Jason vowed to do and see all that he could before going totally blind. I am honored to be a part of his story. Both Jason & and Donna Marie were in St Louis to run my 100th marathon with me in 2015. Amidst hundreds of "accomplishment" books, Running into the Dark stands far above the rest. Jason Romero, a blind marathoner, traces the back story from diagnosis that his vision will fail to his lifechanging decision to run across the U.S. Far from self-aggrandizing, Romero's unselfish decision sought to bring awareness to the blind -- smart, talented, driven, and largely ignored for employment. He accompanies readers through soul-baring incidents as his vision worsens; he involves the reader in heart-wrenching decisions about giving up driving and even his career -- that is, aspects of life most of us take for granted. He also projects his euphoria, heartbreak, anger, and frustration as he does whatever necessary to draw another day closer to his dream, to his calling. As a marathon runner, I know the feeling of fatigue, but it is nothing compared to Romero’s awakening for 60 straight mornings to run 50 grueling miles each day. He lives what Arnold Schwarzenegger said: "The body will quit before the mind will quit.” Running into the Dark is about an extraordinary running feat, but Romero's message is for everyone. He manifests faith, drive, and perseverance throughout, take-aways for anyone, any age, with any goal. The term "inspirational" simply isn't strong enough for Jason Romero's amazing story.
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Matt Coriell SLTC Board Member Hometown: Maplewood Occupation: Bricklayer Average weekly miles: 25 How and when did you get started with running? After my daughter was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2016, I started running as a way to deal with the anger and stress. When did you become an SLTC member and what inspired you to join? I won my membership from the Corp of Discovery race. I'm so thankful for that happening. It showed me how awesome the Track Club is! What are your favorite places to run? I love to run single track trails with technical terrain and lots of hills. What are your favorite running shoes and/or other gear? I’m currently loving my Hoka Challenger ATR’s, they are very comfy and light. I wear Rabbit Running or Last Horse Runners apparel. What is your favorite pre or post run meal? I don’t do anything too special for pre/post run food. I do eat a ridiculous amount of cereal though. What is your favorite SLTC event? What do you like about it? I’m a big fan of the Corp of Discovery trail race. The race is on my favorite trail, and the Track Club keeps it low key and simple. That is exactly how a trail race should be. Anything else you would like to share about yourself? I like to make goofy videos on Instagram. @runmatrun
To be featured in a future Spotlight, fill out this form: http://www.stlouistrackclub.com/member-area/member-profile/
Trail Review: Lewis and Clark Trail By Matt Coriell The Lewis and Clark trails are tucked away in St. Charles County accessible from both HWY 94 and the Katy Trail. With two adjoining trails and having access to the Katy Trail, the possibilities are endless. The Clark trail is a 5.3-mile loop with just under 600 ft of gain. The Lewis trail is an 8-miles loop with around 1200 feet of gain. The trails have multiple trail heads and intersections to which you can easily run a half marathon or more. When starting either loop you will begin running a flat gravel road that will eventually cut into the dirt trail. As you cross over multiple roots and occasional mud puddles you will begin to feel your spirit begin to break free from the stress and worries of the day. As the trail becomes thinner and the trees lean into the trail you start to feel mother nature hug you tighter with every step. The trails progression is almost as if it was planned strategically to invite you from the road to dirt and then to the beautiful single-track switchbacks and creek crossings. Just past your first mile you are faced with a breathtaking view overlooking the Katy Trail and the Missouri river. As you pause your watch to take in the moment you cannot help but feel completely free. When you finally start running again you will be soaring down the first of many downhills of soft dirt and lots of fun trees and roots to dodge. But like most of the great descents, there is a hill to climb once you get to the bottom. On the 5-mile Clark trail there are 3 larger hill climbs and several small rollers. The 8-mile Lewis trail has a quite a few more larger climbs.
One of the best parts of trail running is of course, water crossings! If it has rained in the few days before your run, you will have a few small creeks you can splash through. If water crossings just aren’t your cup of tea, you can normally navigate around the creeks easily on the short loop (Clark). The longer loop (Lewis) is a bit more difficult to avoid the creeks. In the summer they tend to be dry enough to avoid them completely. With several benches constructed in remarkable locations, there is always a place to rest throughout your adventure. If you have never run on trail, or you have run them all, both the Lewis and Clark trails have everything you need. Great singletrack, rocky hill climbs, creek crossings, tree-top views and loads of optional routes to choose from. Be sure to get to the trailhead early, the parking lot is pretty small and fills up quick! Don’t forget, Lewis and Clark Trail is the home of Corps of Discover Trail Race on August 26. Register today!
Ask Styles You've got questions, he's got answers.
Email your burning questions to askstyles@stlouistrackclub.com
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News and notes from the St. Louis running scene. by Donna Springer Margaret “Jean” Wasser passed away on her 91st birthday, April 19th at Breeze Park Care Center, Weldon Spring, MO. Jean’s spunk, humor, infectious, dimpled smile, and bright eyes, graced distances from 1500 meter walks to marathons. Jean racewalked competitively and was a USATF certified official for track and field events. She continued to teach racewalking after stopping her own competitive efforts. “She taught me to racewalk and was a great teacher,” said SLTC member Nancy Sido, Jean authored a Track Time News column, “The Walkabout,” for many years. Her column addressed the needs and issues of walkers, as walkers were becoming more recognized during the early 2000’s. “It made the walkers feel more included in club activities,” commented SLTC President Rae Mohrmann. Another role Jean took during her lifetime was as a professional motivational speaker—her energy transcended into starting areas and finish lines.
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An example of her spunk and persistence comes through in a reminiscence by longtime SLTC member Alison Bourey. “Jean was part of a group that did the Marine Corp marathon in 1995. It was quite an adventure. Jean's son --he was a Marine Corp officer--had checked that walkers got an early start. When we checked in we were told ‘no early start.’ Luckily Jean said something, and a Marine informed his officer that previously, there had been early start, so they made special arrangements for us - to uphold the honor of the Marines.” “After the stress of that registration, we wandered over to the Ritz, and Andy (Alison’s husband) took us for drinks there. Jean did walk and complete that marathon - she was a little wobbly towards the end, but a strapping ultramarathoner made sure that when she finished, she had his services to escort her to us in the family reunion area.” “Jean touched a lot of lives,” Alison said. Jean went back to school in her seventies, completing her Associate Degree in Arts at Forest Park Community College, despite unfamiliarity with College Algebra, and other challenges. She is survived by her son, John, daughters Catherine and Melinda, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. Memorial services were private. Best wishes to Running Niche, as it settles into its first month of operation at 4131 Manchester Avenue. Located in The Grove neighborhood close to Forest Park, Tower Grove Park, The Cortex, SLU and Washington University, the locallyowned Running Niche hopes to provide outstanding personalized service in a fun, supportive and encouraging neighborhood environment. Running Niche strives to be a resource for walkers and runners who are pursuing health and fitness goals. May 15th through 20th was the Official Grand Opening Week. WWW.STLOUISTRACKCLUB.COM
“Runners, cyclists and others enjoying the Dual Path will likely notice a pleasant addition near Forest Park's Round Lake: a brand new water fountain with bottle filler and dog bowl,” reads Forest Park Forever News, May 18, 2018. “We are excited to add another year-round option to a busy section of the Park.” Forest Park Forever thanked its generous donors. Round Lake, located in the northeast area of the Park, is recognized by its historic fountain, installed in 1916. Maggie Siemer, Jack Riegel and Rae Morhmann had a unique running experience at the Frisco Railroad Run April 28th. Maggie ran the 8k; John and Rae ran the half-marathon. The courses covered the historic Frisco Highline Trail, between Willard MO, near Springfield, and Bolivar. Consistent with the railroad theme, the T-shirts and finisher medals featured the Frisco Railroad logo. The top runners and three deep age group winners received model train car trophies. The surfaces of the courses were similar to surfaces of the Katy Trail, with fine-crushed, hard packed gravel. The out-and-back courses included a 50 Mile Ultramarathon, a 50K Ultramarathon - Willard to historic Graydon Springs (Mile 15.5) and back, a marathon, a Half Marathon, and an 8K. All distances are USATF certified; the marathon is a Boston qualifier.
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“Perfect weather,” commented Rae, “quite a contrast from 2017, when the races were cancelled due to weather.” Jack placed third in the 40-49 age group in the half-marathon, time 1:43:58, Rae was Overall Grand Masters winner, time 2:03:17, setting a state half-marathon record for age 70. Rae set another Missouri age group record on May 19th at The Ferguson Twilight Run .“Congratulations on your 10K - Age 70 State Record,” said SLTC’s Lifetime Achievement winner Tom Eckelman. ”That gives you five state age records in the 10K alone!” On the record, or off the record, the Saint Louis Track Club wishes you the best. Share your news and accomplishments with Dsprin5574@aol.com or with the Saint Louis Track Club office.
Most runners have experienced it: your run is going smoothly and you’re feeling great, then all of a sudden you succumb to the dreaded side stitch, calf cramp or that feeling of “having to go.” Muscle and stomach issues can stop a runner dead in their tracks. Find out why you get them and how you can prevent them! Athletico would like to offer COMPLIMENTARY INJURY SCREENS for any aches and pains you may experience. Complimentary Injury Screenings are available at all 400+ locations in eleven states. Click here to request a complimentary injury screening at any of our locations.
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Member and Volunteer Picnic Tomorrow! - June 10 4pm - 8pm
Join us for a fun picnic with other members! We have some special activities planned and will also honor our volunteers and award the Volunteer of the Year award. Bring a side dish or dessert to share with the group! We will provide meat and veggie main dish options. RSVP here: http://evite.me/TWaRBgkmvC
39th St Louis Half Marathon, Clayton Police 5K for Special Olympics & Youth Run 7:30am Sunday, Nov. 4 Clayton Full details at: stlouistrackclub.com/half-marathon
Saint Louis Track Club
2018 Summer Pace Series Where the power of the pace exceeds the need for speed When:
Wednesday nights, June 6 through Sept. 26
Time:
Walkers start at 6 pm, everyone else at 6:15 pm
Place:
The Visitor’s Center in Forest Park
Entry Fee:
$1 per run plus optional donations for snacks
Races are scored based on actual time versus predicted time - of course, you run without a watch! Each month the best 3 of 4 races will be used to determine ribbon winners for the top 10 closest estimators. For the entire series, the best 12 of 16 races will determine trophy winners for the top 15 closest estimators. June series June 6 2M June 13 3K June 20 5K June 27 2.5M
July series 2M July 11 July 18 3K July 25 5K Aug. 1 2.5M
August series 3K Aug. 8 Aug. 15 5K Aug. 22 2.5M Aug. 29 4.2M
September series Sept. 5 2.5M Sept. 12 5K Sept. 19 4.2M Sept. 26 3K
Wednesday, Oct. 3, is the fun run, grab bag, and final series awards.
If you are looking for an easy way to meet new friends or are new to running, the Pace Series is for you! The Forest Park Visitor’s Center is located near the History Museum and Tennis Complex at: 5595 Grand Dr. St. Louis, 63112 No need to pre-register. Just come on out before 6pm to check-in.
2018 St. Louis Track Club marathon training program The St. Louis Track Club announces the return of its popular marathon training program in 2018. Ron Golan (rgolan11@gmail.com) and Bill McCoy (wildbill2553@hotmail.com), each of whom have completed many marathons and ultra-marathons will be your training coordinators. Contact them with any questions, other than the perennial “Am I too slow?” (No, and we don’t care, so long as you commit.) Whether you are training for your first marathon or a repeat customer, we welcome you. You will improve your running, make friends, and learn of new places to run, both on the road and on trails. The program is free, but you must be a member of the St. Louis Track Club: www.stlouistrackclub.com/membership/join-renew To receive details regarding all group runs, directions, training tips, and other important information, please join St. Louis Track Club Marathon Training Group on Facebook. Entry Guidelines: Minimum of 20 miles per week; long run of at least 8 miles without walking; at least 3 runs per week. Runs start at 7:00 a.m. sharp but arrive early because parking can get crowded. Please carry a water bottle. Date 06/23/18
Site Queeny Park — Upper Parking Lot – 2 Loops
Miles 8
06/30/18
Trailhead Brewery — Old St. Charles
10
07/07/18
Babler State Park — 2 Outer Loops & 1 Inner Loop
13.5
07/14/18
Creve Coeur Lake Park — Waterfall (Taco Bell Shelter) 11
07/21/18
Center of Clayton — SLTC ½ Marathon Course
13.1
07/28/18
Lone Elk Park — Chubb Trail
15.5
08/04/18
Weldon Springs — Katy Trail
18
08/11/18
Forest Park Visitor’s Center — Arch Run
14
08/18/18
Babler State Park — 3 Outer Loops & 1 Inner Loop
18
08/25/18
Collinsville, IL — MCT Old School house trail
16
09/01/18
Chesterfield – Monarch Levy to the Katy trail
14
09/08/18
Forest Park Visitor Center — Inside the Park
20
09/15/18
Grant’s Trail (improved) from Kaldi’s in Kirkwood
16
09/22/18
Creve Coeur Lake - Taco Bell Shelter to St. Charles
13
09/29/18
Cliff Cave Park
10
------------------------------------------------------------------------10/07/18 Cowbell/Chicago marathon 26.2 Other summer/fall races you may like: 07/14/18 Get Your Butt Kicked at Route 66 (6 hours) 08/26/18 Corps of Discovery Trail Half marathon & 5 miler 09/02/18 Flatlanders 6/12 hours 09/03/18 Heart of America marathon 10/21/18 GO Halloween Half marathon 11/03/18 Indianapolis Monumental marathon 11/04/18 St Louis Half Marathon & Clayton Police 5K
Member Discounts Check the Member Discount page in the Member Area of our website to find special discounts just for you! 10% off Heart of America Marathon September 3 15% off Kansas City Marathon October 20 $5 off Four Legged Running’s Half Marathon, 5K & Dog Mile November 18 10% off written training plans from Spewak Training.
Log in to the Member Area to find the discount codes.
CALENDAR
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
PACE SERIES WEDNESDAYS BEGINNING 6/6 FOREST PARK
MEMBER AND VOLUNTEER PICNIC
PACE SERIES WEDNESDAYS BEGINNING 6/6 FOREST PARK
JUNE 10, 4PM STACY PARK, OLIVETTE, MO
NEW! TRAIL SOCIAL RUN/WALK JUNE 14, 6PM CASTLEWOOD STATE PARK
SOCIAL RUN/WALK JUNE 18, 6PM SCHLAFLY BOTTLEWORKS
SOCIAL RUN/WALK JULY 16, 6PM SCHLAFLY TAP ROOM
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