One foot in front of the other.
I was chatting with Laminator last night and I realized that my site, as well as my show are both about to turn two years old! I began writing about my life as a wannabe athlete on February 13, 2008, recorded my first podcast on March 9, 2008 and I cannot believe how far this thing has come!
So, as Lam and I were talking about that and other things, he made a VERY cool suggestion to me and I want to run (excuse the pun) with it! So, here it is:
So that’s it! Lam did this same thing on his site a while back and it is a great read!
EMAIL THE LAMINATOR ANY QUESTIONS FOR ME!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Date: 2/8/09
Consecutive Days Run: 39
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quick
Time of Day: 6:48 PM EST
Distance Run: 2.03 miles
Time Run: 00:14:29
Average Pace: 7:08 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (31 degrees Fahrenheit), Windy
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/24293254
About the Run: When I was a kid, my brother and I would come out of movies like The Karate Kid and do our best imitations of the people on the screen. If we were lucky, no property or bones were broken in the process. A similar thing still happens to me these days. This evening I had an interview with the one and only Pip Taylor. Pip is an absolutely amazing professional triathlete and, as it happens, a nutritionist! After I got off the phone with her, I was so inspired and honored to speak with her that I got totally amped up to go for my run.
I left my building feel fresh legged, which was nice considering my long run yesterday, and took off. I began at a pace that was quick but comfortable and felt more like gliding than running. I hit my one mile turn around feeling good and looking forward to pushing it a bit on the return trip. I held my pace at about 7 minutes flat and for the last third of a mile, I pushed it down to around 5:40. I felt good and winded, in that really cool, “Hey, I just did that!” way.
04-Feb-2010: Gord Pauls of Hamilton, Ontario is an Ironman athlete and Cervélo customer who will be undertaking a truly remarkable feat in an effort to raise money for the people of Haiti. Pauls has been an advocate for Haiti for many years, organizing charitable initiatives through his store, The Runner’s Den, to support initiatives to bring improved nutrition and education to the children of Haiti. This year, the need in Haiti is far greater, and Pauls has challenged himself to raise $250,000 by completing 3 Ironman distance challenges on 3 consecutive days. On Friday, August 27 and Saturday, August 28, Pauls will complete a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike, and 42.2 km run (2.4 miles, 112 miles and 26.2 miles, respectively). He will follow those up by competing in Ironman Canada on Sunday, August 29.
We wish Gord all the best in his training and fundraising, and look forward to reporting on his successful completion of the challenge. For more information on Gord Pauls, the triple Ironman, and his fundraising, please visit www.gordpauls.com.
February 8, 2010 (FPRC) — Stradalli Cycle, the high performance carbon bicycle manufacturer, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a partnership with HED Cycling to use HED’s wheel designs and technology on their 2010 Milano Strada-PRO carbon road bikes.
The fruit of this partnership is the HED 4 Stradalli 60mm or 90mm front and 90mm rear full carbon clincher wheel set. The front wheel has 18 spokes and weighs an incredible 774g, while the rear wheel uses 24 spokes and weighs just 1025g. The wheels, which are made for 23mm tires, are natural carbon fiber black with white and red lettering.
HED Cycling, which has over twenty years of manufacturing experience in making aerodynamically efficient wheels, designs and manufactures sixteen different models of composite wheels, exported worldwide and used in events from the Tour de France to the Hawaii Ironman to the prestigious North Oaks triathlon championship. Every single wheel HED wheel, including the new HED 4 Stradalli wheel, is handmade.
“We are very proud to have an exclusive model of wheels designed specifically for our bike by such a reputable wheel maker as HED” said Thomas Steinbacher, CEO Stradalli Cycle. “The quality of the Milano Strada-PRO road bike demands we make compromises.”
The HED 4 Stradalli wheel set is the perfect solution for the Stradalli’s Milano Strada-PRO carbon road bike. Using ultra-light carbon fiber components its frame weight is just 997g while the fork weight comes in at under 400g. The Milano Strada-PRO is the bike of champions.
About The Stradalli Cycle Company
Based in Florida, Stradalli is an official SRAM OEM and fits SRAM Red or SRAM Force to all of its 2010 bicycles. The Stradalli Cycle Company sells worldwide to the keen athlete who demands the best equipment. With years of experience in both high tech manufacturing and design as well as a passion for cycling, Stradalli brings dedication and innovation to the road racing bicycle market.
Contact
http://www.stradalli.com
sales@stradalli.com
February 08, 2010
EDMONTON–A freak accident on an island off of the coast of Africa has cost an Edmonton triathlon athlete her life.
Laura MacKay lost control of the bicycle she was riding Thursday on the Canary Islands and crashed into a rock face.
The 37-year-old was training alongside her husband, who works as an Edmonton police officer.”It’s not just the loss of a person, (she was) a special person,” said Bert MacKay, father of the Ironman racer.
MacKay headed to the islands two weeks ago for a bit of training, some relaxation and to celebrate her birthday.
She crashed after losing control of her bike on a winding mountain road that was lined by a wall of rock on one side. MacKay died before she could be reached by paramedics, who had to fly in because a rainstorm washed mudslides onto the road.
She died the day after her birthday.
Laura MacKay participated in as many as nine Ironman competitions, said her father. Competitors swim about four kilometres, bike 180 km, then run a marathon.
Based on all that experience, she always wore safety gear while riding, her father said. He remembered Laura for her gentle personality.
“She was most unique because she was non-judgmental. If you met her in a room, in five minutes you’d be impressed.”
Laura worked as a counsellor at the Strathcona County Health Centre’s mental health unit in Sherwood Park, Alta. Her husband, Travis Eltom, was to arrive home Sunday with his wife’s ashes.
Serves: 6
To make the filling: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a large shallow casserole dish, or 6 individual casserole dishes with cooking spray.
Season the chicken with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of the oil over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer the chicken with its juices to a bowl. .
Add 2 more teaspoons of oil to the same pan and heat it over a medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots and celery and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the green beans, garlic and remaining salt and pepper and cook for 2 minute more. Add the milk. Stir the flour into the broth until it is completely dissolved and add to the pan. Cook, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes more. Return the chicken with its juices back to the pan. Add the peas and thyme and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spoon the mixture into the baking dish or individual dishes.
To make the crust: Put the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt into a food processor and pulse a few times to combine. Add the butter and pulse about 12 times, or until pebble sized pieces are formed.
Add the buttermilk then oil to the food processor and pulse until just moistened. Do not over mix. Drop the batter in 6 mounds on top of the chicken mixture (1 mound on each individual dish, if using) spreading the batter out slightly. Bake until filling is bubbling and the biscuit topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Excellent source of: Protein, Fiber, Vitamin A, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Selenium
Good source of: Thiamin, Vitamin B12, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc
Date: 2/7/09
Consecutive Days Run: 38
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Long (ish)
Time of Day: 1:55 PM EST
Distance Run: 15.44 miles
Time Run: 02:00:18
Average Pace: 7:47 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (32 degrees Fahrenheit), Windy
Disposition: Good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/24201299
About the Run: In running the letters LSD do not stand for “lysergic acid diethylamid” or “acid”, rather it stands for either Long Steady Distance or Long Slow Distance. One way or the other, I was really looking forward to getting out and going long(ish) today. It was my first long day since the Manhattan Half-Marathon and I feel like my legs were ready to just take it easy and go.
Since today was cool and I was going for a while, I ran with my Fuel Belt Helium, with both bottles filled with blueberry-pomegranate Gu Electrolyte Brew. You see, I sweat in EPIC proportions, even on cold days and rather than my typical method of ignoring my nutrition, I wanted to play it smart. The reason I mention that particular flavor is because it contains double the sodium of any of the other flavors of Gu Brew and considering my copious amounts of sweat, I need it. So, with my Fuel Belt loaded and dressed for the occasion, off I went.
The day was absolutely gorgeous. It was a bit cold, but the sun shining made up for that and then some. As I have mentioned before, my hands get very hot when I run, regardless of the temperature, and this in turn affects my overall body heat. However, this only happens when I start with gloves. As I got to the point where my hands began to feel like they had been tossed into a microwave oven, I decided to try something. I took off one glove, the left glove, and held it in my right, still gloved, hand and a wonderful thing happened. My fingers which I expected to get rather cold instead acted like foils on a car radiator, dissipating heat and cooling down my whole body. It was awesome! At one point after I made my turn back home, the wind I was facing began to sting that hand a bit and I put my glove back on until it got to that “oven” feeling again and again, it was perfect!
The run itself felt really great. Running down the West side of Manhattan is always beautiful and at this time of year almost devoid of everyone but the most devoted athletes. To be completely honest, I never once looked at my pace, but rather, I just did what felt comfortable, which turned out to be faster than I thought it would! As I was about to exit the West Side Greenway I even ran into (or ran BY as the case may be) @AnnaCBee which was so nice as my day is always brightened seeing people I know out and tearing up the roads!
Craig Alexander has won the Geelong Ironman 70.3 for the second year running. Clayton Fettell exited the swim in first place closely followed by Michael Murphy, Paul Ambrose and Jan Rehula. The swim proved to be slower than the 2009 Geelong 70.3 swim leg with all swimmers approximately 1-2 minutes slower out of the water.
Leon Griffin finished in second place 1:20 behind Alexander with the run proving to be the deciding factor. Alexander set a blinding pace to finish the run in 1:11:57. A further two minutes back were Tim Berkel, Peter Schokman and Clayton Fettell. After posting the fastest swim and second fastest bike leg of the day, Fettell was 7:31 behind Alexander on the run.
Peter Schokman put in a stunning race with only 22 seconds in the swim and 3 minutes in the run seperateing him and Alexander.
|
Pos
|
First Name
|
Last Name
|
Gun Time
|
Category
|
Swim
|
Cycle
|
Run
|
|
1
|
Craig
|
ALEXANDER
|
3:53:15
|
0:23:01
|
2:15:39
|
1:11:57
|
|
|
2
|
Leon
|
GRIFFIN
|
3:54:35
|
0:23:13
|
2:15:29
|
1:13:21
|
|
|
3
|
Tim
|
BERKEL
|
3:56:10
|
0:23:24
|
2:15:06
|
1:14:51
|
|
|
4
|
Peter
|
SCHOKMAN
|
3:56:25
|
0:23:23
|
2:15:15
|
1:14:59
|
|
|
5
|
Clayton
|
FETTELL
|
3:56:39
|
0:21:54
|
2:12:37
|
1:19:28
|
|
|
6
|
Matty
|
WHITE
|
4:00:02
|
0:23:26
|
2:15:04
|
1:18:44
|
|
|
7
|
Paul
|
AMBROSE
|
4:00:39
|
0:22:56
|
2:15:39
|
1:19:25
|
|
|
8
|
Jason
|
SHORTIS
|
4:01:12
|
0:25:07
|
2:13:18
|
1:19:42
|
|
|
9
|
Damien
|
ANGUS
|
4:01:51
|
0:25:56
|
2:15:50
|
1:16:53
|
|
|
10
|
Jason
|
CROWTHER
|
4:02:42
|
0:23:28
|
2:15:12
|
1:21:11
|
|
|
11
|
Richard
|
THOMPSON
|
4:03:15
|
0:25:09
|
2:13:18
|
1:21:54
|
|
|
12
|
Adam
|
HOLBOROW
|
4:05:53
|
0:24:53
|
2:13:43
|
1:24:19
|
|
|
13
|
Richard
|
MUNRO
|
4:06:36
|
0:25:08
|
2:13:22
|
1:25:03
|
|
|
14
|
Michael
|
MURPHY
|
4:07:20
|
0:22:54
|
2:15:48
|
1:25:57
|
|
|
15
|
Chris
|
DMITRIEFF
|
4:09:09
|
0:24:43
|
2:18:46
|
1:22:27
|
Date: 2/6/09
Consecutive Days Run: 37
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quick, short
Time of Day: 7:33 PM EST
Distance Run: 2.24 miles
Time Run: 00:15:56
Average Pace: 7:07 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (26 degrees Fahrenheit, “Real feel” of 6), Windy
Disposition: Preoccupied
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/24104809
About the Run: First, Danielle is feeling better, though still a bit tired, as expected. Thank you for your kind words.
Today was an oddly busy day. Danielle had a baby shower today to which I drove her. Since men were strictly prohibited (until after the festivities had wrapped up), my brother-in-law and I went walking around the alien universe that is the Upper East Side of Manhattan. I say the day was oddly busy because I really didn’t have anything to do except be nearby for when we were allowed back into the “clubhouse”.
Once we fought our way through traffic caused by and accident on the FDR and finally got our myriad precious pink things unloaded, I need a moment to decompress…from my day of doing nothing.
I knew it was a cold evening, one that I had hoped would be spent running in either falling or freshly fallen snow. However, while Washington, D.C. was blanketed in record amounts, New York City wound up with barely a flurry. I bundled up in my cold gear and headed out to my short, two mile loop. As I got to about .5 miles in, I noted that my lungs were actually so cold from my inhalations that my lungs hurt. This was probably because I was pushing the pace a tiny bit and because I was going right into a pretty hefty wind.
As I made the turn back toward home, my pace quickened but due to the wind now being at my back, my lungs thawed a bit. I felt good on this run and pushed it the last half mile or so down into the sub-6:30 range. Tomorrow is another odd day. We have family coming throughout the day, and though I may be busy, I have to find the time to get in a two hour run, my longest since the Manhattan Half-Marathon. Should be fun!
Date: 2/5/09
Consecutive Days Run: 36
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quick, short
Time of Day: 8:32 PM EST
Distance Run: 2.08 miles
Time Run: 00:16:07
Average Pace: 7:45 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (34 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Preoccupied
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/24020443
About the Run: As I walked out the door this evening the last thing that was on my mind was my run. About twenty minutes earlier I hung up the phone with Danny Abshire, co-founder of Newton Running, after having an amazing interview. I stepped out of my studio (daughter-to-be’s nursery) and began regaling my wife, Danielle, with the details of my conversation with Danny.
As I began to get changed to go for my run I noticed that Danielle was looking a bit out of it. In case you don’t know, she is currently almost 8.5 months pregnant. This kind of raised an alarm in my mind, but I didn’t want to play it up to her and make her worry. I asked if she was feeling ok and she said, “No”. She told me she was feeling a lot of “pressure” and tightness. I asked if there was anything I could do to which she responded once again, “No”.
My assigned run today was: “Very, very easy! just form and relax” for a time of one hour. I headed out the door worried about Danielle and whether she would be ok for that hour while I was gone. About .75 miles into my run I decided that I could not leave her unattended for that hour in the state she was in. So, I hit my one mile mark and turned around and headed back home completing my usual short run of just over two miles.
She feels better now, just a bit tired. We have a lot of family and friends in town this weekend for a baby shower on Saturday, so she will be busy. Let’s hope Little One stays put!
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Triathlon is pleased to announce the 2009 Accenture Paratriathletes of the Year. Sarah Reinertsen and J.P. Theberge were selected for this honor by USA Triathlon’s Age Group Commission.
Paratriathlete of the Year – Women
Sarah Reinertsen, 34, Mission Viejo, Calif.
Top Performances:
2nd at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-2)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-2)
“I am honored to be selected as the 2009 Paratriathlete of the Year, especially amongst such an incredible group of athletes on the team. I have been racing in triathlon for the past six years, and the paratriathlete division has grown tremendously. We have the most competitive field of women to date, so it’s a true delight to receive this distinction.”
Honorable Mention: Robin Caruso (43, Ridgefield, Conn.), Megan Fisher (26, Missoula, Mont.), Ivonne Mosquera (32, New York, N.Y.)
Paratriathlete of the Year – Men
J.P. Theberge, 37, Carlsbad, Calif.
Top Performances:
1st at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-5)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-5)
“It is a great honor to be voted Paratriathlete of the Year by USAT. It is a honor to me but also a tribute to the burgeoning paratriathlon movement which is making great strides around the world featuring talented disabled athletes around the U.S. and internationally who work hard to promote and to increase awareness of the movement in countries such as Morocco, Hungary, the UK, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Spain, Austria, New Zealand among the many other countries involved. We all thank you so much for the honor.”
Honorable Mention: Paul Martin (42, Boulder, Colo.), Matt Perkins (35, Boise, Idaho), Aaron Scheidies (27, Seattle, Wash.)
The sponsorship of the 2009 Paratriathlete of the Year Award showcases Accenture’s ongoing commitment to the sport of Paratriathlon. “What we are all about is high performance, so we always look for opportunities to work with others that exemplify that,” said Cathinka Wahlstrom, Accenture’s N.Y. Metro managing director. “We love Paratriathletes because absolutely everyone involved is exhibiting high performance.”
Accenture is committed to helping enhance Paratriathlon competitions and grow the Paratriathlete base. They have sponsored the Accenture USAT Paratriathlon National Championships in New York City for the past four years and will do so again in 2010. “Part of the reason Paratriathlon is now considered an elite sport and is on the verge of Paralympic inclusion is the great support of Cathinka, Justin Model and everyone at Accenture.” said Jon Beeson, co-chair of the USAT Paratriathlon Committee. And there is a real side benefit to its involvement. Along with Accenture’s partnership with the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), it’s support of high-performing, non-profit organizations like USAT also promotes an environment of healthy living and lifestyles for their employees and clients. Many of them have taken up the sport after helping out as ParaTri handlers at the NYC race.
La Sportiva N.A., makers of technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking footwear, announces its Mountain Running® team roster and associate sponsors for 2010.
“Supporting the La Sportiva Mountain Running® team is one of many ways in which we aim to improve the vitality of the sport,” says Laura Fryer, La Sportiva’s Marketing Manager. “Ever since our Mountain Running® team’s inception in 2003, our goal has been to provide a network of support to regional race directors, volunteers, talented athletes and quality races throughout North America. We are very grateful for the assistance that our associate sponsors will be providing in 2010, as this mission would be impossible without their help.” La Sportiva’s running team roster includes over 25 athletes from around North America and includes such ultrarunning notables as Karl Meltzer, Luke Nelson, Leor Pantilat as well as the 2009 La Sportiva Mountain Cup Champions Matthew Byrne and Megan Kimmel. New additions to the La Sportiva team for 2010 include Andy Jones-Wilkins of Ketchum, Idaho, Nathan Yanko of San Francisco, CA, Ellen Parker of Seattle, WA, and Natalie Simms of Chattanooga, TN.
Associate sponsors for the 2010 La Sportiva Mountain Running® team are Greenlayer Sports and First Endurance with support from Ultimate Direction and Petzl. Additional sponsors include Julbo, Headsweats and DeFeet.
Melissa O’Kelley, Greenlayer Sports Marketing Director, states “Sponsoring the La Sportiva Mountain Running® team is a perfect fit for us, not only because of the high caliber of athletes on their team, but also because of pro-environmental philosophies that exist between our brands and the loyal following of active enthusiasts we both share. We hope that our inaugural partnership with La Sportiva will raise awareness about the environment and help shape a better world where we all live and run, locally and globally.” Greenlayer will serve as the official apparel sponsor of the La Sportiva team.
“At Ultimate Direction, we sponsor only the most passionate running teams and dedicated athletes. La Sportiva’s team roster for 2010 includes some of the best endurance athletes in the world,” states Sue Edmiston, Ultimate Direction’s Marketing Manager. “Water is an essential element for peak training, racing and performance. With our innovative array of hydration products we plan to keep Team Sportiva running fast in 2010.”
Go to http://mountainrunning.com for a complete list of the 2010 La Sportiva Mountain Running® team roster, associate sponsors and calendar of racing events.
As you may know, I have been coaching recently with Jeff from PRS Fit and I have never been faster or stronger and I exceed myself almost daily. Well, for those of you who were didn’t think you could ever afford a coach, now you don’t have to! Jeff has given me the following announcement:
After a lot of thought and soul searching I have decided to release all my beginner training plans to the public for free. I get so many questions from first time runners and triathletes doing plans from books and magazines, that don’t answer critical training questions at critical times. It has always been my practice to stand behind my plans just like I stand behind my one on one clients. If you have a plan from PRS FIT, I will be there for you from start to finish. You can email me, the coach and plan designer with any question you may have, and you will receive an answer the same day.
To contact Jeff, please visit his website HERE. To see some of Jeff’s video insights into different aspects of training, click HERE!
Date: 2/4/09
Consecutive Days Run: 35
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quick, short
Time of Day: 5:06 PM EST
Distance Run: 2.00 miles
Time Run: 00:14:34
Average Pace: 7:16 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (34 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Hurried but good
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/23962231
About the Run: One of the biggest challenges I am finding with this mission is finding the time in the day to do all the things that I have to get done. Today was one of those day where I wish there were six more hours in the day. This is basically the way my day went:
So, as you can see it’s bee one heck of a long day. On top of that, this Saturday is a baby shower for my wife, and a bunch of people will be in town, so tomorrow, I get to: work, swim, work, interview Danny Abshire (Co-founder of Newton Running), run and then clean our whole apartment. Ouch.
My run today was a good one. I honestly don’t mind the quick runs as they give me a chance to see just how fast I can do my 2 mile loop. One of these days, when I have the time and am feeling up to it, I will go flat out and see if I can do it in under 12 minutes. I bet that will hurt. A lot.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Triathlon is pleased to announce the 2009 Garmin Age Group Athletes of the Year and Accenture Paratriathletes of the Year, an honor awarded annually by the USAT Age Group Commission and the USAT Duathlon Committee.
Triathlon and duathlon athletes were selected in various categories, including overall, masters, grand masters and juniors.
“These talented athletes displayed fantastic results at various distance races which set them apart from others,” said Lee Zohlman, co-chair of the USAT Age Group Commission. “Each year, a panel of USAT member volunteers meet and look at a group of athletes and their results. Based on performances across various race distances, depth of fields and quality of races the panel chooses the AOY. We congratulate these athletes on their hard work and dedication and wish them the best in 2010.”
Overall Triathlete of the Year – Women
Cathy Yndestad, 31, Apple Valley, Minn.
Top Performances:
1st elite amateur at Lifetime Fitness Triathlon
1st AG / 3rd overall at USA Triathlon Age Group National Championship
“Wow! Considering all the other outstanding amateur triathletes in contention for this award, I am truly honored and grateful to be named Athlete of the Year. I owe a great deal of thanks to my fellow competitors for keeping each race challenging and more importantly, for keeping it fun!”
Honorable Mention: Mandy McLane (30, Windermere, Fla.), Lindsey Whalen (28, Chicago, Ill.), Kathleen Calkins (34, Gold River, Calif.), Bethany Handley (28, Oklahoma City, Okla.), Kaitlin Shiver (20, Satellite Beach, Fla.)
Overall Triathlete of the Year – Men
Chris Thomas, 37, Easton, Conn.
Top Performances:
1st overall at St. Anthony’s
2nd amateur at 70.3 World Championship
“I am truly honored to receive this award. I have been competing in triathlon events for 10 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I feel very fortunate to be able to participate in the sport. I would like to thank my father, who introduced me to endurance sport when I was six years old. My family has been my foundation throughout. My wife’s support has allowed me to chase my dreams. I have three little boys and they inspire me every day to do my best and have fun. I would also like to thank my coach, Paul Regensburg from Lifesport Coaching. His guidance has been invaluable over the past two years. Finally, it has been a privilege to be a member of the Timex Multi-sport team for the past seven years. ”
Honorable Mention: Brian Duffy, Jr. (21, West Chester, Pa.), Tim Hola (35, Highlands Ranch, Colo.), Doug Clark (41, Morristown, N.J.), Mark Harms (34, Madison, Calif.), Nathan White (26, Waukee, Iowa)
Masters Triathlete of the Year – Women
Linda Robb, 45, Juno Beach, Fla.
Top Performances:
1st AG at USAT Age Group National Championship
2nd AG at 70.3 World Championships
“I feel extremely honored to be chosen by USAT for this award. There are so many incredible masters athletes in our sport which makes this very special. As a long standing member of USAT, it is truly an honor to be recognized. I’d like to thank my husband, my coach and all of my training buddies for keeping it real and keeping it fun.”
Honorable Mention: Laura Sophiea (54, Atlanta, Ga.), Cassie McWilliam (43, Rye, N.Y.), Peggy Yetman (41, Beaumont, Texas), Ellen Hart (51, Denver, Colo.), Ann Davidson (46, Portland, Ore.)
Masters Triathlete of the Year – Men
Doug Clark, 41, Morristown, N.J.
Top Performances:
1st AG at Hawaii Ironman World Championship
2nd AG / 1st American overall at ITU Short Course World Championships
“It’s a real honor to win this title. Having at some point been a middle-of-the-packer in all three disciplines, I hope I can offer some inspiration to others that perseverance and smart training can get you a long way without doing huge hours. Also, being over 40 doesn’t stop you from recording PRs. Having a full time job, most of my training last season was carried out during my commute or at lunchtimes and my daughter’s nap times. If you get creative you can always find time.”
Honorable Mention: Dean Harper (56, Walnut Creek, Calif.), Kevin Moats (55, Atlanta, Ga.), Tim Sheeper (46, Menlo Park, Calif.), Kim McDonald (55, Del Mar, Calif.), Greg Taylor (55, Mankato, Minn.)
Grand Masters Triathlete of the Year – Women
Lauren Binder, 62, Portland, Ore.
Top Performances:
1st AG / 2nd overall grandmaster at USA Triathlon Age Group National Championship
1st AG at ITU World Championship in Gold Coast
“I am very excited and honored to have been chosen Grand Masters athlete of the year for 2009. It’s times like this when all the hard training and discipline pays off, but most of all, I have enjoyed every minute of it! I am so thankful for all the emotional support from my partner, family, friends and USAT.”
Honorable Mention: Cherie Gruenfeld (65, Cathedral City, Calif.), Diane Ridgway (61, Arvada, Colo.), Elizabeth Brackett (68, Chicago, Ill.)
Grand Masters Triathlete of the Year – Men
Steve Smith, 62, Granger, Ill.
Top Performances:
1st AG at USAT Age Group National Championship for the sixth consecutive year
2nd AG at 70.3 World Championship
“This really caught me off guard. Training with great friends, traveling to great places and competing with great athletes is the multisport lifestyle! I love every minute of it. 2010! Game on!”
Honorable Mention: Roger Brockenbrough (75, Pittsburg, Pa.), Jon Adamson (72, Alpharetta, Ga.), Bob Scott (79, Naperville, Ill.)
Junior Age Group Triathlete of the Year – Women
Kailand Cosgrove, 19, Tarpon Springs, Fla.
Top Performances:
1st AG at St. Anthony’s Triathlon
1st AG at the Longhorn 70.3
“For the past seven years I have had a blast racing triathlons from which I leave with unforgettable experiences; Alcatraz, Pan American Games in Mexico and Canada, Longhorn 70.3, and many more. For me, triathlon is not just a sport; it is a lifestyle that has shaped me as a person academically and athletically. I have made amazing friends and have met some outstanding people in the sport of triathlon. I am so honored and proud to be named USA Triathlon’s Junior Triathlete of the Year and without the support of my family, friends, and my dad (Dean Cosgrove) as my coach, I would not be where I am today.”
Junior Age Group Triathlete of the Year – Men
Joseph Welsh, 19, Cordova, Tenn.
Top Performances:
1st AG / 15th overall USA Triathlon Age Group National Championship
12th AG ITU World Championship in Gold Coast
“This past season, I’ve met some amazing people, enjoyed the hard work of brilliant race directors, and had fun every step of the way. I am honored to receive this award, and I would like to thank a number of people who helped me on my journey: my parents who have supported me emotionally and financially every step of the way; my sisters who have spent dozens of summer days sitting in the southern heat cheering for me; Bert Hull of Alpha Q for keeping me supplied; Walt Rider of Rider Bikes for planting my feet into such an exciting sport; my coaches Eddy Hilger, Brian Sheedy, Dave Smith and Dee Baker for always pushing me to the limit; Los Locos Triathlon Team; Marx and Bensdorf Cycling Team; Lees-McRae cycling team; all those who I have ever raced or trained with; and God, for whom is solely responsible for every step that I take.”
Overall Duathlete of the Year – Women
Suzanne Huelster, 35, Riverton, N.J.
Top Performances:
1st overall at USA Triathlon Duathlon National Championship
1st overall amateur at ITU World Duathlon Championship
“Receiving Duathlete of the Year is a delightful and humbling way to top off a whirlwind season. I want to thank everyone in the duathlon community for providing so much support and encouragement both on and off the course. I share this award with them.”
Honorable Mention: Gail Kattouf (36, Greenville, S.C.), Alicia Parr (39, Durham, N.C.), Kristine Kuss (41, Newark, Del.)
Overall Duathlete of the Year – Men
Kevin O’Connor, 38, Medina, Minn.
Top Performances:
1st amateur / 6th overall (world’s qualifier) at Apple Duathlon
1st amateur / 2nd AG / 9th overall at Duathlon World Championship
“I am not certain I deserve this award as there are a number of talented men who raced well, often, and hard. I am quite honored and humbled by this recognition. Thank you to USAT for honoring all of the athletes, both elite and amateur, who work very hard every year to reach their potential. After 20 years of racing this is my most prized athletic award and for that I thank USAT.”
Honorable Mention: Dirk Heinze (33, High Bridge, N.J.), Matthew Sheeks (26, Woodinville, Wash.), Todd Wiley (39, Pipersville, Pa.)
Masters Duathlete of the Year – Women
Kristine Kuss, 41, Newark, Del.
Top Performances:
1st AG / 7th overall female at USA Triathlon Duathlon National Championship (short course)
1st AG / 6th overall female at ITU Duathlon World Championship (short course)
“I’d like to thank USAT for the recognition, and also thank those who’ve made me realize how important it is to do what we love, while we can, in the time we’re given.”
Honorable Mention: Kristin Villopoto (49, Chapel Hill, N.C.), Janet Howard (48, Clackamas, Ore.), Stacy Creamer (50, New York, N.Y.), Julie Deery (44, Bala Cynwyd, Pa.)
Masters Duathlete of the Year – Men
Jeff Miller, 42, Lewistown, Pa.
Top Performances:
1st master / 12th overall at USA Triathlon National Duathlon Festival (short course)
2nd master / 8th American / 14th overall at ITU World Duathlon Championships (short course)
“It’s an honor to receive this award considering the level of competition in the masters duathlon field along with a season plagued with nagging injuries. I would like to thank 2008 Masters Duathlete of the Year Casey Williams for his positive encouragement throughout the season and his level of competition. He makes me strive to be the best that I can be. I would also like to thank my wife, Shari, and my son, Lance, for all their support and understanding.”
Honorable Mention: Chris Giordanelli (45, Simpsonville, S.C.), Casey Williams (41, Boiling Springs, Pa.), Shane Thread (46, Evansville, Ind.)
Grand Masters Duathlete of the Year – Women
Anne Mitchell, 55, Bala Cynwyd, Pa.
Top Performances:
1st AG at USAT Duathlon National Festival (short course)
1st AG at ITU Duathlon Worlds
“It is an absolute pleasure to be nominated and selected as a Duathlete of the Year! I am sure all will say that I love to play, and competition is just one big giant recess for me!”
Honorable Mention: Anne Viviani (60, Arlington, Va.), Ann Erickson (67, The Woodlands, Texas), Heysoon Lee (65, Stuart, Fla.), Sharon Roggenbuck (71, Hillsborough, N.C.)
Grand Masters Duathlete of the Year – Men
Steve Ruckert, 60, Woodbine, Md.
Top Performances:
1st AG at Duathlon National Championship
1st AG at ITU Duathlon World Championship
“I’ve just been informed by USAT that I am the recipient of the award Grandmaster Duathlete of the Year. In receiving this award I acknowledge that I represent the competivive spirits of thousands of duathletes from around the world. I am honored and have much to be thankful for. Thank you.”
Honorable Mention: Gordon Holt (61, Matthews, N.C.), Tony Marshall (65, Carlsbad, Calif.), Roger Brockenbrough (75, Pittsburgh, Pa.)
Junior Duathlete of the Year – Women
Katie June, 16, Roswell, Ga.
Top Performances:
Junior Duathlon National Champion
8th place at the Junior Duathlon World Championship
“I am really honored to be chosen for this award. Winning at nationals and then representing the United States at worlds have been the high points of my multisport experience, and I am grateful to many people for their support and guidance along the way. ”
Honorable Mention: Kate Buss (16, Blacksburg, Va.), Erika Gates (19, Vestal, N.Y.), Katherine Shields (16, Salisbury, N.C.)
Junior Duathlete of the Year – Men
Ryan Peterson, 16, Richmond, Va.
Top Performances:
1st overall at USA Triathlon Junior Duathlon National Championship
2nd U.S. finisher / 12th overall at the ITU Junior Duathlon World Championship
“It is a tremendous honor to have been named Junior Duathlete of the Year. I want to thank my family and coaches for all the encouragement and commitment they have provided in support of my multisport activities. It was a privilege to represent the U.S. at the 2009 World Junior Duathlon Championships, and I hope to have that opportunity again this year at the World Duathlon Championships in Edinburgh, Scotland.”
Honorable Mention: Lukas Verzbicas (16, New Lenox, Ill.), Josh Evans (18, Galt, Calif.), Kody McCracken (15, Wellsboro, Pa.)
Paratriathlete of the Year – Women
Sarah Reinertsen, 34, Mission Viejo, Calif.
Top Performances:
2nd at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-2)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-2)
“I am honored to be selected as the 2009 Paratriathlete of the Year, especially amongst such an incredible group of athletes on the team. I have been racing in triathlon for the past six years, and the paratriathlete division has grown tremendously. We have the most competitive field of women to date, so it’s a true delight to receive this distinction.”
Honorable Mention: Robin Caruso (43, Ridgefield, Conn.), Megan Fisher (26, Missoula, Mont.), Ivonne Mosquera (32, New York, N.Y.)
Paratriathlete of the Year – Men
J.P. Theberge, 37, Carlsbad, Calif.
Top Performances:
1st at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-5)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-5)
“It is a great honor to be voted Paratriathlete of the Year by USAT. It is a honor to me but also a tribute to the burgeoning paratriathlon movement which is making great strides around the world featuring talented disabled athletes around the U.S. and internationally who work hard to promote and to increase awareness of the movement in countries such as Morocco, Hungary, the UK, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Spain, Austria, New Zealand among the many other countries involved. We all thank you so much for the honor.”
Honorable Mention: Paul Martin (42, Boulder, Colo.), Matt Perkins (35, Boise, Idaho), Aaron Scheidies (27, Seattle, Wash.)
Date: 2/3/09
Consecutive Days Run: 34
Runner: Brandon Wood
Shoes: Newton AW Trainers
Location: New York, NY
Type of Run: Quick, short
Time of Day: 6:56 PM EST
Distance Run: 2.01 miles
Time Run: 00:14:45
Average Pace: 7:21 per mile
Weather Conditions: Cold (32 degrees Fahrenheit)
Disposition: Distracted
Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/23891765
About the Run: This afternoon, I got an email from a listener of my show that kind of upset me. I won’t go into the details too much here, but, suffice it to say that my mind was not on running this evening. I would like to say this: Over the past two years I, by way of Brandon’s Marathon, have come to be part of a wonderful community of athletes. These athletes come from all over the world and from right around the corner. I have become quite close with some people whom I never would have me if it were not for the incredibly embracing and encouraging athletic community that the internet has helped to foster. So, today, when I was informed that one of my listeners was unhappy, I took every word in with the desire to improve what I do.
As I went out the door, I hesitated to pick up my pace. You see, one of the thing that this person said was that I have forgotten what it means to be “slow”. I told him that speed was relative and that he only need look at my PR half-marathon results from two weeks ago to discover just how far down the list I am in terms of speed. Once I got over that, I got into a mind to push my pace as I further contemplated how to respond to this email that was capturing my thoughts. I feel like I had a good run, but I was not connected to my body. To be completely honest, my head is still spinning a bit.
TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 3, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owners of the global Ironman Triathlon and 70.3 Event Series, announces its Ironman 70.3 U.S. Pro Championship, an event open to all professional athletes within the sport. For the first time, pros will have the opportunity to earn a coveted title, while competing for a prize purse of $75,000. Houston’s Memorial Hermann Healthcare System, the largest not-for-profit healthcare provider in Texas, will serve as title sponsor and official sports medicine provider for the inaugural event.
“Memorial Hermann and Ironman share a common interest in helping athletes achieve their personal and professional goals. We are looking forward to joining them for this world-class event,” said David Bradshaw, chief marketing officer, Memorial Hermann.
Memorial Hermann Ironman 70.3 Texas, formerly known as Ironman 70.3 Lone Star, will take place on Sunday, April 25, 2010 on historic Galveston Island, along the Texas gulf coast. Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, situated among 242 lush, tropical acres, will play host to athletes from around the world. The saltwater swim will be in the protected waters of the Offats Bayou, while the bike course will lead athletes on a flat and scenic ride along the coastline. Athletes will also see a flat run course, as it meanders through tropical gardens and towering glass pyramids. A total of 50 slots for the 2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 will be awarded to top age group and pro finishers.
“Ironman brings together the best athletes in the world, and physicians, trainers and other experts from the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute will be there throughout the weekend to offer education and provide medical services,” said Walter R. Lowe, M.D. Lowe is co-medical director of the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute, chief of Orthopedics at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.
During the event, the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute will demonstrate VO2 Max analysis for both running and cycling, as well as gait assessments. Additionally, exercise physiologists, physical therapists, athletic trainers, nutritionists and strength and conditioning experts will be on site to answer questions. Massage therapy and medical care will be provided for participants.
“We are very excited to provide professionals with an enhanced prize purse and the chance to sport the title of Ironman 70.3 U.S. Pro Champion. The launch of this event allows us to further highlight our professional field, offering greater visibility and recognition for these athletes. In addition, the timing is ideal as it provides pros with an event to test their early season fitness among a world-class field,” said Heather Fuhr, WTC’s Pro Athlete Liaison and former Ironman World Champion.
The weekend will also include the Lone Star Sprint and Olympic-distance events on Saturday, April 24. For more information on event weekend, visit www.ironmanlonestar.com. All Ironman-related media inquiries can be directed to Blair LaHaye at Blair@ironman.com or Jessica Weidensall at Jessica@ironman.com. Inquiries about Memorial Hermman can be directed to Alejandra Rodriguez at Alejandra.Rodriguez@memorialhermann.org.
Thanks so much for visiting my site! My name is Brandon Wood and I am an opera singer living and trying to make it in New York City. This site and podcast follow my adventures on the way to competing in and training for all kinds of endurance events, especially triathlon and running. Click the "About Me" tab for more info!
