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IronBrandon Show: Episode 169

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Chrissie Wellington Taking 2012 Away from Ironman Racing

Ironman 70.3 Kansas

Ironman Canada

Ironman 70.3 Lake Stevens

IronBrandon Show: Episode 134

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LEAVE A COMMENT HERE TO BE ENTERED TO WIN A FREE PAIR OF STUFFITTS!

Newton 24 Hours of Triathlon

Boa Technology

Racers Against Childhood Cancer (RACC)

Ironman Wisconsin

Ironman Lonestar (70.3)

ISM Saddles

PLEASE click HERE to donate to Athletes for a Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation as I train for Ironman Canada 2011!!


 

IronBrandon Show: Episode 132

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PLEASE click HERE to donate to Athletes for a Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation as I train for Ironman Canada 2011!!

Leave a comment HERE to be entered to win a FREE bottle of Vidazorb!

My thoughts on swim training

Swimovate Poolmate Pro

Swimsense by Finis

Light & Motion bike lights

Tridudes

ICAN Triathlon

Challenge Triathlon Series

Tristar Triathlon Series

An interesting start to an interesting time…

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Happy Monday and happy Valentine’s day! Today is the beginning of a very interesting period in my life and I thought I’d take a minute to share some thoughts on where it began this morning and where it may be headed. It does have something to do with running, triathlon and the like so, read on!

Achilles

A few weeks back I mentioned that while out on a run on a day with a lot of ice on the ground I over-extended my trailing leg and “tweaked” my achilles. Since then I’ve had to kind of knock back the intensity of some of my runs and, to be completely honest, I’ve not run 100% pain free since. I’m not sure that I’d call this a true injury per se, but rather a small stumbling block.

I had a run last Friday where I was feeling my oats a little bit and so I took it out quicker than I have been. I wasn’t in pain while running, but I was aware of the tweak. After my run (about 8.5 miles at about 7:00/mile), as soon as I stopped at the front door of my building and began walking in the hallway, my achilles lit up. P-A-I-N. It seemed that the pain came not really when I put pressure on it but rather when I took it off.

I stretched immediately but couldn’t take too much time since I still had to get to work (yes, I managed to make it out for a pre-dawn run). Throughout the day I forced myself to alter my walking gait so as to avoid any pain. I guess I looked like I was limping a bit but it was a self imposed limp rather than my body NEEDING to limp, so that has to be something.

On Saturday morning I headed out the door for a 2.5 hour brick workout. I had spoken to Coach Jeff the night before and he told me to just do the ride and to forget about the run. So my ride, which was scheduled to be 1.5 hours got upped to 2.5 hours. It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to ride outside so this was a welcome change from the monotony of the indoor trainer. Upon getting on the bike my achilles, which had been largely immobilized and set in ice for most of the previous day, was feeling quite tight and sore. I made and effort to gently stretch it out when I could and after about 30 minutes of riding it loosened up and even let me ride some large-ish hills harder than I thought I’d be able to.

When not chasing my daughter and packing/cleaning, the rest of the day was spent, leg elevated and on ice. Sunday’s run was also canceled and we’re now in some odd stasis waiting to see how I feel this week. I don’t have a run scheduled until Wednesday and then I hope my patience and wisdom don’t lose out to ego and pigheadedness. There’s no point in sacrificing an entire season for a few missed runs.

As an aside, and not to go down the technical road; when I was home and able to, I spent the ENTIRE weekend in just socks. I even walked my dogs in just socks on Saturday night. When I was barefoot, I hardly felt anything at all. Today I decided to wear a pair of Newton Gravitas‘ to work since they’re effectively flat and thus far, I’m doing well.

The Subway

I got on the subway this morning (the ever so pleasant downtown 1 train) at my usual stop. The train was not very crowded and I easily got a seat at the end of a row. I tend to go for those seats since that means that I’ll only have one person squeezing in beside me rather than two. The train went from my stop (215th St.) to about 110th St. without incident, or even that much of a crowd. At 110th St. a bunch of people got on the train including one of those people who like to stand IN the doorway and block the door for those trying to get on and off the train even though there is plenty of room to stand elsewhere.

It was this door-standing, super classy individual that started my day off on the wrong foot. This guys elbow was just about level with my ear. Since he was holding onto the rail attached to the seat I was sitting in, this is not out of the ordinary and no big deal. However, as the doors would open, he would lean basically into my seat (yes, I’m aware of the sometimes overstated “American bubble” that we prefer and are spoiled with. That said, I’ve been on a subway in Japan at rush hour and I know what “close” really is). Each time he did this he was coming about 9 inches across where he needed to be and he would push, not very hard but just inconsiderately so, his arm into my head. He did not say, “I’m sorry” or even acknowledge this annoying and obvious invasion of my space.

Now, had this been simply an invasion of my “space” and not an actual instance of me being touched repeatedly in the head by some stranger, I would not really have a problem with it. At about 72nd St. there was a rather aggressive push of my head with this guy’s elbow. So, I put my hand on my head, in between my head and his arm and gently moved his arm away and said, “Excuse me, your arm keeps hitting my head.” I didn’t say this loudly of in any kind of a rude tone. The rest of the conversation went like this:

Douchey McA-hole: Don’t touch me again.

Me: I’m sorry?

Douchey McA-hole: I said, don’t touch me again.

Me: I’m sorry but you’ve been hitting me in the head with your arm for the last forty blocks.

Douchey McA-hole: I’m just trying to let people on and off the train.

Me: Well, you could go stand somewhere where you won’t have to do that and hit me in the head.

Douchey McA-hole: Don’t touch me again.

Me: If you don’t touch me again then we won’t have a problem.

Douchey McA-hole: Don’t touch me again.

Me: Or what?

Douchey McA-hole: *silence*

He got off the train at 59th St. (Columbus Circle) without further incident. I don’t like confrontation, but when I’m put in that situation, with someone literally standing over me (since he was standing and I was sitting) my hackles rise very quickly. However, I did maintain a calm demeanor which was bolstered by the very nice woman next to me who was encouraging me to ignore him since he was clearly “that kind of person”. I just don’t get it. Why do people have to be like that? I was tempted to stand up and just stare at the guy since I had about 20 pounds  and 3 inches on him, but I figured that would only serve to exacerbate an already tense situation.

So, Douchey McA-hole, have a happy Monday and I’m not hoping at all that you get dropped like a sack of potatoes by someone with less patience than I have.

Looking forward

Danielle and I are going to Milwaukee this week to sing Mozart’s Così fan tutte with Skylight Opera. Being there will be a nice break from living in New York for a while, though I must admit that I doubt it will instill in me the affection that some feel for this town.

While there I hope to take Gearist TV on tours of SRAM, Saris and Trek Bikes. Gearist is doing well and is further expanding passions of mine that have been emerging for a while. Upon returning from Milwaukee, we will be looking to the future. Our lease is up in October and we are moving. We don’t know where just yet but to us, anywhere is better than here.

The spring and summer will be spent training hard and racing. The biggest race of the season of course, is Ironman Canada. I’m still toying with the idea of doing a 24 hour live podcast to help raise money for Athletes for a Cure (PLEASE CLICK HERE TO DONATE!!). If I do do a live 24 hours show I am certainly going to need people to call in and stop by to keep me awake!

I’ll be touching more on the reasons and desires of our move in the coming months as well as the direction we’re moving in. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.

Crowie and Macca to battle in Abu Dhabi!

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Much has been made in the past of the Crowie and Macca rivalry. In fact, you may have even heard some hints of it in my interview with Crowie [LINK]. Usually we have to wait until Kona to see Crowie and Macca go head to head, but this year we’ll get to see them early! Both World Champs will be in the Abu Dhabi International triathlon which takes place on Mach 12.

As many have said before (not the least of which is Macca himself), Macca is considered to be a stronger cyclist than Crowie. With that in mind, the unusual distance of the Abu Dhabi course will favore the 2010 Kona champ. The distances are: 3 km swim (approx. 1.86 mi.), 200 km bike (approx 124 mi.) and 20 k run (12.4 mi.).

TriCenter this week did a bit of a highlight on the two heavyweights as they gear up for an early season showdown.

IronBrandon Show: Episode 130

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Click HERE to donate to Athletes for a Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation as I train for Ironman Canada 2011!!

Ironman Canada

TriSports.com Phoenix Triathlon

Amica Ironman 70.3 Rhode Island

New York City Marathon

GoLite Tara Lite

Optygen HP

Leave and episode HERE to win a FREE pair of Stuffitts!

Prostate Cancer Names of Note

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Prostate cancer affects everyone, even those that may seem above it all. Here’s a short, but seemingly long, list of some rather famous people who’ve fought the disease. Some have won and some have tragically lost. Please click here to help me raise money for Athletes for a Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation on my way to the 2011 Ironman Canada.

Harry Belafonte: He was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer in 1996 and successfully treated. He is now a prostate cancer advocate, raising awareness of the disease in men.

Bill Bixby: Diagnosed in 1991. He succumbed to the disease on November 21, 1993.

James Brown: The Godfather of Soul was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 but survived. He died of heart failure in 2006.

Robert DeNiro: The Academy Award winner was diagnosed with early-stage cancer in 2003 at the age of 60. He has kept details of his treatment private. His father died of prostate cancer at the age of 71.

Sen. Bob Dole: Diagnosed in 1991 and successfully treated, he became an outspoken prostate cancer advocate. He became a spokesperson for Viagra because of the problems prostate cancer survivors often experience with erectile dysfunction.

Robert Frost: The poet was diagnosed in 1962, had a radical prostatectomy the same year, and died in 1963.

Rudy Giuliani: The former New York City mayor was diagnosed with prostate cancer in April 2000 and had surgery to implant radioactive seeds in September 2000. Giuliani’s father died from prostate cancer in 1981 at the age of 73.

Robert Goulet: Diagnosed in 1993 at the age of 60 after a routine blood test for insurance purposes, Goulet underwent a radical prostatectomy and is now free of prostate cancer. Robert Goulet died in 2007 of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a lung disease.

Merv Griffin: Diagnosed in 2000 at the age of 75 and underwent 7 weeks of radiation therapy.

Alec Guinness: While battling glaucoma, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in January 2000. In July 2000, he was diagnosed with advanced liver cancer and died a month later on August 5, 2000.

Langston Hughes: Died on May 22, 1967 at the age of 65 after complications from abdominal surgery related to prostate cancer.

John Kerry: The former presidential candidate was diagnosed in late 2002 with early-stage prostate cancer and had successful nerve-sparing prostate cancer surgery in 2003. Kerry’s father died of prostate cancer in 2000 at the age of 85.

Timothy Leary: The 1960s counterculture icon died from the disease in 1996 at the age of 75.

Phil Lesh : The Grateful Dead bassist announced that he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer in October 2006.

Nelson Mandela: Diagnosed in 2001 with early-stage cancer. He underwent seven weeks of radiotherapy and made a full recovery.

Roger Moore: The former 007 was successfully treated with surgery in 1993.

Pablo Neruda: Died of the disease in 1973 at the age of 69.

Laurence Olivier: Diagnosed in 1967 and underwent radiation treatment that successfully eradicated the cancer.

Jerry Orbach: The Law and Order star died from the disease in Dec. 28, 2004 at the age of 69.

Linus Pauling: The Nobel Prize winner was diagnosed in 1991 at the age of 90 and died of the disease in 1994.

Colin Powell: In 2003, he underwent surgery for early-stage prostate cancer and made a full recovery.

Johnny Ramone: The Ramones guitarist died in 2004 at the age of 55 after a five-year battle with the disease.

Telly Savalas: The “Kojak” star died of the disease in 1994 at the age of 70.

Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf: Diagnosed in 1993 and underwent successful surgery.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau: The Prime Minister of Canada died of prostate cancer in 2000 at the age of 80.

Bishop Desmond Tutu: Diagnosed after a routine exam in 1996. He was treated in the United States with hormone therapy and radiation.

Earl Woods: Tiger Woods’ father was diagnosed in 1998 and successfully treated with radiation, but the cancer returned more aggressively in 2004. Woods died on May 3, 2006 at the age of 74.

Frank Zappa: Died of complications from the disease on December 4, 1993 at the age of 52.

IronBrandon Show: Episode 129

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Help get me to Ironman Canada with Team Newton and Athletes for a Cure!

Floyd Landis wants to legalize doping(?)

Baker’s Distance Racer Review

My Kinvara Review

Prostate Cancer Facts

SheROX Triathlon Series

New York City Marathon

IronBrandon Show: Episode 128

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CALL THE SHOW AND TELL ME ABOUT YOUR FIRST RACE! (917) 675-3144

Ironman Canada

Help get me to Ironman Canada with Team Newton and Athletes for a Cure!

Red Bank Triathlon

Amica Ironman 70.3 Providence

Running Lam

IronBrandon Show: Episode 124

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GoLite Contest:Black Mountain Thermal Wind Jacket (Men’s or Women’s)! Here are the way to get up to 3 entries and the rules:

  • Entry one: leave a comment on Episode 124
  • Entry two: refer a friend to leave a comment and mention your name
  • Entry three: tweet the following: Listen to IronBrandon’s episode 123 and be entered to win GoLite! http://tinyurl.com/22u7n25 #IBGoLite
  • The contest is open to US and Canadian residents.
  • The contest closes at 12:00 Noon EST on Monday, January 3, 2011

Boston Marathon Solutions

Kara Races the Boys

Honey Stinger Grassroots Sponsorship Program

Triathlon elites lining up next to Juan Pelota (Lance Armstrong) in his re-entry to triathlon

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When seven time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong toes the line in his return to triathlon in January, he will certainly have to bring his A-game and then some to step up to the competition. New Zealand pro Bevan Docherty will join Lance at the Blue Lake Multisport Festival as well as long distance pros Bryan Rhodes and Kieran Doe.

Not that anyone expects the competition to lay down for Lance, but one has to wonder if he thought he’d be facing athletes of this caliber when he hinted to this event under his alter-ego @JuanPelota when he tweeted:

“I’m thinking the first tri is here… 38°12′S 176°20′E”

If you’re wondering why I keep referring to this as Lance’s “return” to triathlon, it’s because before he was the yellow clad cyclist we know now, he became a professional triathlete at the age of 16. In fact in 1989 and 1990 Armstrong was the national sprint course triathlon champion.

He’ll also be in Kona next October, so this race marks the beginning of a very exciting chapter in his sports career. Oh, and the name “Juan Pelota”? Google translate and a little bit of humor helps.

[Click here to read more]

Sir Richard Branson Racing in the 2011 London Triathlon

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You’ve got to hand it to him, Richard Branson is brilliant when it comes to PR. The event will take place on the weekend of July 30-31 in the Docklands and it will be the 15th anniversary of the race. Branson’s company, Virgin Active, has signed a three year title sponsorship with the event in which 13,000 people take part.

[Click here to read more]

IronBrandon Show: Episode 119

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Philadelphia Marathon

Natural Running: The Simple Path to Stronger, Healthier Running (By Danny Abshire with Brian Metzler)

Haile Gebrselassie UN-retires

London 2012 Olympics runs into Ramadan

Marathon Maniacs Criteria

IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 115

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Please help spread the word about Gearist!

Honey Stinger

Honey Stinger Bar Review on Gearist

SleepTracker

Vidazorb

LeMond Revolution Trainer

Elliptigo

WTC Launches New Global Event Series

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Oct. 5, 2010 (Tampa, Fla.) – Today, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), best known for its worldwide Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races, announces the launch of a new global event series titled 5150. All events within the 5150 Triathlon Series include a 1.5K swim, 40K bike and 10K run. Event information, including online registration details, will be available in the coming weeks on www.5150.com.

Starting in 2011, the 5150 Series will be the largest international distance triathlon series in the world and will be the first non-drafting international race series of its kind, offering a competitive platform for professional and age group athletes. The 2011 event schedule will offer 13 domestic events as well as a handful of international races. The Hy-Vee Triathlon will host the 5150 U.S. Championship, offering professional athletes the opportunity to compete for $1 million in prize money. Additional international race locations in Europe and Asia-Pacific will be announced soon.

2011 5150 Series (United States)

  • March 13 Miami International Triathlon (Miami, Fla.)
  • May 1 St. Anthony’s Triathlon (St. Petersburg, Fla.)
  • May 15 5150 New Orleans (New Orleans, La.)
  • May 22 Memphis in May Triathlon (Tunica, Miss.) June 19 Washington D.C. Triathlon (Washington, D.C.)
  • June 25 5150 Provo (Provo, Utah)
  • July 10 Boulder Peak Triathlon (Boulder, Colo.)
  • August 7 Nautica New York City Triathlon (New York, N.Y.)
  • September 4 Hy-Vee Triathlon/5150 U.S. Championship (Des Moines, Iowa)
  • September 11 5150 Lake Lanier (Gainesville, Ga.)
  • October 2 5150 Lake Las Vegas (Henderson, Nev.) October 23 5150 Galveston (Galveston, Texas)
  • November 12 5150 Clearwater/5150 Series Finale (Clearwater, Fla.)

2011 5150 Series (International)

  • June 5 5150 Frankfurt (Frankfurt, Germany)
  • June 12 5150 Klagenfurt (Klagenfurt, Austria)
  • July 9 5150 Zurich (Zurich, Switzerland)

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 113

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    Honey Stinger

    Smartwool Arm Warmers

    Chicago Marathon

    Philadelphia Marathon

    Newton Running (Come visit me at the Newton booth at the Chicago Marathon!!)

    Runblogger

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 112

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    Leave a comment and win a FREE pair of Stuffitts!

    Philadelphia Marathon (Map and Elevation)

    Newton Running

    Endurox R4

    Black Diamond Sprinter Headlamp

    Chicago Marathon

    Do You Know a Teacher/Administrator/Coach in Staten Island or Queens?

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    Yesterday evening I got the below email from Gabi at Run by Foot Locker:

    We are a sponsor of the Foot Locker Five Borough Challenge- basically a race within the race- at the ING NYC Marathon.  We choose one runner from each of the five boroughs to run the first 13 miles of the marathon together as a team.  This year the theme is teachers/administration/coaches/employees of the Board of Education.  I’m reaching out to you to see if you knew anyone that fit the criteria.  For more info please visit:

    http://www.ingnycmarathon.org/entrantinfo/5_boro.htm

    So, do you know someone?

    Race for Parkinson’s Disease with the Michael J. Fox Foundation

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    I got the following email from my friend TK last night:

    Hello to all my friends in running! I am most likely going to participate in this 10k/5k on September 25th. Proceeds go to the Michael J Fox Foundation to support research to find a cure to Parkinsons Disease. Many of you know this is a cause dear to my heart. I hope some of you will join me. Note the race is a fair distance away — there is transportation provided from Grand Central — near Beacon, NY. It’s $25 for the 10k and $20 for the 5k.

    Link to register is below, and if you have questions you can email Jennie directly (tell her I sent you).

    I know many of you are training for Fall marathons and/or are competing in the 5th Ave Mile the next day. Nevertheless, I hope you’ll be able to fit in this race too–or at least spread the word among your runner friends, too.

    REGISTRATION LINK

    So, let’s help TK and Team Fox! On a side note, if you’re looking for a blog with some fantastic writing and honest wordsmithery (yep, I just made that up), then you MUST check out TK’s site HERE

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 110

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    Philadelphia Marathon

    Newton Distancia Racers

    Chicago Marathon

    Catlike Whisper Helmet

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 109

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    Philadelphia Marathon

    Ironman Louisville

    Newton Running

    Stuffitts

    Please help me get to the Philadelphia Marathon by donating here!!

    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 5 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 6 days to go!

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    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 107

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    My Top Ten Tips for Beginner Cyclists

    Baker’s Review of the Catlike Whisper Plus

    Topeak Multi Tools

    ISM Saddles

    Team Winter

    Newton Running

    Athletes for a Cure

    Rokit Fuel

    Hammer Endurolytes

    Honey Stinger

    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 10 days to go!

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    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 106

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    Xterra Wetsuits

    De Soto Sports

    Swedish Goggles

    Specialized Propero

    Giro Advantage 2

    Sole Dual Layer Performance Socks

    Pivlock V90 Max Sunglasses

    Speedfil

    Trek Equinox TTX 9.0

    Suunto T6C

    Garmin 405

    Infinit Nutrition

    Honey Stinger

    Easton EC90 90mm Wheels

    Newton Gravitas

    Newton Terra Momentus

    Headsweats

    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 14 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 17 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 18 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 19 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 20 days to go!

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    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 105

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    Team Winter

    Ironman Louisville 2010

    Mission Skincare

    Sole (AMAZING SOCKS, and sandals….)

    Smith Pivlock V90 Max Sunglasses

    Smith Pivlock V90 Max with Prescription lenses

    Retul

    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 25 days to go!

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    Ironman Louisville 2010 – 26 days to go!

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    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 103

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    Leave a comment on this post and win a pair of Stuffitts for free! (it takes 2 seconds!!)

    Ironman Louisville

    Speedfil Hydration System

    Newton Running

    Infinit Nutrition (Use code “ironbrandon” for FREE shipping!!)

    What should I call my new supplemental race report show?

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 95

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    Subscribe to IronBrandon in Itunes (It’s FREE!)

    Subscribe to IronBrandon With Your Favorite News Reader (Also FREE!)

    Get Automatic Email Updates From IronBrandon (Yep, STILL FREE!!)

    Help Support IronBrandon!

    Help Kevin and RACC!

    Infinit Nutrition (FREE SHIPPING WITH CODE: ironbrandon)

    Newton Running

    Ironman Mooseman 70.3

    Salinas Valley Half Marathon

    PRS Fit

    PRS Fit Live!

    Comrades 2010 Gets Underway This Sunday

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    Arguably one of the most prestigious events in running, the 2010 version of Comrades Marathon starts this Sunday, May 30, 2010. The event, now in it’s 85th year is one of the most sought after titles in ultra-distance running. The race this year will come in at 89.28 km (55.58 mi.), which makes it 110 meters longer than last year’s version of the event. Runners from all over the world, including the 50 km American record holder, Josh Cox. Best of luck to all those running!

    Click here for the official Comrades site and more info about the race!

    IronBrandon’s Podcast: Episode 94

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    Get Automatic Email Updates From IronBrandon (Yep, STILL FREE!!)

    Donate and Help Support IronBrandon.com!

    Ironman Mooseman 70.3

    Mooseman Bike Course

    Mooseman Run Course

    Suunto T6C

    Help Kevin and RACC!

    Salinas Valley Half Marathon

    Infinit Nutrition (FREE SHIPPING WITH DISCOUNT CODE: IRONBRANDON)

    Coming Up

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    Now that we’re officially in race season across the country, and the world for that matter, I wanted to give a shout out to some friends who’ll be racing soon.

    Kevin from KC Tri’s (and fellow Newton Running devotee), whom you may remember was a massive help to me and my wife during Ironman Wisconsin last year, is about to do his first ever marathon! Kevin will be running the Cellcom Green Bay Marathon this Sunday and his bib number is 929 (race tracking HERE). Kevin has been and continues to be a huge supporter of me and my show and I could not be more excited for him to take this huge step toward his first Ironman (Ironman Wisconsin 2011)!

    Also racing this Sunday is my friend Ari from Run Ansky Run! Ari is always an amazing supporter of my site and show and he’ll be running the Pocono Mountain Run for the Red Marathon! Ari has been coaching with my coach, Jeff, and ALL signs are pointing to him busting out a huge PR!

    Finishing out the across the country marathon weekend is Colin from Resurrected Runner. Colin is also about to do his first ever marathon this Saturday in the Windermere Marathon in Spokane, Washington (for those from the South, like me, that’d be “Warshington”) Colin has been a tireless supporter of me and my site, always in the live chat for my streaming shows. I have a sneaking suspicion that Colin is going to completely destroy his expectations in this race and I cannot wait to see the results!

    On the triathlon front, I am so excited to see Incredible Jane go kill it in the UBC Sprint Triathlon this Sunday! I’ve been following Jane since day one of her quest and through ups and downs and finding that “life happens” more than we can ever expect, Jane has been an amazing force of positive energy. Also coaching with Jeff, Jane has seen herself crossing the finish line at the Rock ‘n Roll Las Vegas half marathon and starting a regular running group and training session with the awesome folks at Sugoi! I’m so excited to see what she can do!

    Not this weekend, but on May 30, Lam of The Running Laminator fame, is debating running the Buffalo Marathon. His original spring marathon had him running the New Jersey Marathon a couple of weekends ago, but alas, the bubonic plague or something saw him shivering in bed for the week leading up to the race (though, I assume he lost several brain cell due to his illness as he STILL found the balls to run the half marathon at the same event!). As you may or may not know, Lam is a very fast and very smart runner. He is aiming for a sub-3 hour marathon this year and I, for one, think he’ll have no problem attaining that time. His body (for the moment) may have other ideas according to him. In any event, I look forward to seeing Lam kick some more ass.

    I’m positive I’m missing people, and if you’re of of the missing, please don’t be offended. Send me your information (name, race name and bib number) and I will be more than happy to put the word out!

    Houston to Host 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials

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    The City of New York and the New York Road Runners who hosted the somewhat infamous Men’s Olympic marathon trials before the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games are a little less than thrilled with some news today. If you recall, it was in those trials that Ryan Shay tragically passed away, five and a half miles into the race. The city was hoping that they would again be given the trials for the 2012 London games, however USATF has granted the trials to the city of Houston.

    One point in favor of Houston was the $1.7 million in private and public funds that were put up for the event. Here is what NYRR CEO, Mary Wittenberg had to say:

    “As an organization fiercely committed to our sport and our athletes, I have to be honest and say that we are disappointed by today’s announcement that both Trials races will be in Houston. It seemed such a win-win to split the genders and to give the fans of two markets the chance to experience the Trials in an up-close-and-personal way. The NY and Boston Trials were unqualified successes. It would have been nice for at least one of us to have had the chance to build on that success and to capitalize on the momentum of the last Trials.

    “For us at NYRR, our commitment to our athletes and our sport has always gone way beyond any one day. All of us at NYRR were, however, hoping to have the chance to work with USATF and the USOC to make the very most of that one Trials day for the good of our athletes and our sport. We will look forward to continuing to host our American athletes often throughout the year at NYRR events.”

    With this, Houston becomes the first city to host both the Men’s and Women’s marathon trials.  The event will be held on January 14, 2012 on a course that has put up some fairly fast times in the past. The top three finishers in each race will go on to represent the United States in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London.

    HOUSTON COURSE RECORDS
    Men: 2:07:37 Teshome Gelana Etana, 2010
    Women: 2:23:53 Teyiba Erkiso Waka, 2010

    Date Set for 2010 San Diego Triathlon Classic

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    Moment Sporting Events has just announced the date–September 18, 2010—for the San Diego Triathlon Classic. The race, San Diego’s original USAT sanctioned Olympic triathlon, is now open for registration (www.sandiegotriathlonclassic.com).

    “The San Diego Triathlon Classic has gained recognition for its spectator-friendly course that winds through some of San Diego’s most precious historic landmarks,” said JT Lyons, president of Moment Sporting Events. “The scenic, yet challenging nature of this premier event has attracted those that simply enjoy the fun and purity of the sport as well as numerous top age groupers and elite triathletes.”

    Lyons added that the company moved the event from its original mid-October date to mid-September to allow those competing at the Ford Ironman World Championships to have one more race option “a final tune-up” before heading off to Hawaii.

    The San Diego Triathlon Classic will begin and end on the water’s edge at Liberty Station in the newly renovated historic NTC Park. The 1.5K calm water swim is in a protected estuary of San Diego bay. The bike course (40k) travels through Cabrillo National Park, enjoying spectacular views of Mexico, downtown San Diego and the Pacific. The two-loop, fast and flat, 10k run winds along the waterfront in NTC Park, passing the USS recruit.

    “We created the San Diego Triathlon Classic course with both the athlete and the spectator in mind,” said Lyons. “All can enjoy the beautiful views of the downtown skyline, historic landmarks and the San Diego Bay. There is a children’s playground, additional park space and shopping just steps away from the start/finish area.”

    Race features include participant t-shirts, a unique finisher medal, goodie bags, five-split timing, gourmet post-race food and a microbrew garden. The travel friendly San Diego Triathlon Classic is minutes from the San Diego International Airport. Many restaurants are within walking distance and hotels are just a step away from the start/finish line.

    The public is encouraged to watch the race and attend the free two-day Fitness expo Friday, September 17th and Saturday September 18th. The expo will showcase the finest in triathlon-related coaching, nutrition, bicycles, wheels, apparel, and more.

    Interested race participants are encouraged to register early as space is limited. To register online, or for more information, including photos and accolades from last year’s race, visit: www.sandiegotriathlonclassic.com.

    2010 Boston Marathon Elite Athlete Field

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    BOSTON, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — John Hancock Financial today announced the elite field of 44 athletes from ten countries for the 114th running of the Boston Marathon on April 19.  A complete field list follows.

    Headlining the field, and recently announced, are defending champions Deriba Merga and Salina Kosgei, and past champions Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, Catherine Ndereba, Dire Tune and Lidiya Grigoryeva.

    On the men’s side, nine have raced under 2:07 with top contenders, Abderrahim Goumri, Evans Cheruiyot, Gilbert Yegon, Robert Kiprono Cheruiyot and Chala Dechase leading the challenge.

    Americans chasing the champions are Ryan Hall, Meb Keflezighi, Jason Lehmkuhle, Josh Rohatinsky and Antonio Vega.  International newcomers to the course include Elijah Keitany, Samuel Mugo, David Mandago, Mohammed Amyn and additional talent.

    In the women’s race the four returning champions will face Teyba Erkesso, Yurika Nakamura, Weiwei Sun, Nailya Yulamanova, Agnes Kiprop and new marathoners Mestewat Tufa and Chaofeng Jia.

    Madai Perez also returns after maternity leave and Burna Genovese, Albina Mayorova, Koren Jelela Yal, American Michelle Frey and Waynishet Girma are among other women in the mix.

    114th Boston Marathon John Hancock’s 2010 Elite Athlete Field

    Men’s Open Field

    Personal Best

    Deriba Merga, Ethiopia

    2:06:38 (London, 2008)

    Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:07:14 (Boston, 2006) CR

    Ryan Hall, USA

    2:06:17 (London, 2008)

    Abderrahim Goumri, Morocco

    2:05:30 (London, 2008)

    Gilbert Yegon, Kenya

    2:06:18 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    Robert Kiprono Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:06:23 (Frankfurt, 2009)

    Evans Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:06:25 (Chicago, 2008)

    Chala Dechase, Ethiopia

    2:06:33 (Dubai, 2010)

    Elijah Keitany, Kenya

    2:06:41 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    David Kipkorir Mandago, Kenya

    2:06:53 (Paris, 2009)

    Benjamin Maiyo, Kenya

    2:07:09 (Chicago, 2005)

    Tekeste Kebede, Ethiopia

    2:07:52 (Fukuoka, 2009)

    Gashaw Asfaw, Ethiopia

    2:08:03 (Paris, 2006)

    John Kipkorir Komen, Kenya

    2:08:06 (Reims, 2008)

    Samuel Mugo, Kenya

    2:08:20 (Beijing, 2009)

    Stephen Kiogora, Kenya

    2:08:24 (Frankfurt, 2008)

    Mebrahtom Keflezighi, USA

    2:09:15 (New York City, 2009)

    Moses Kipkosgei Kigen, Kenya

    2:10:12 (Nairobi, 2009)

    Abdellah Falil, Morocco

    2:12:37 (Turin, 2009)

    Jason Lehmkuhle, USA

    2:12:54 (New York City, 2007)

    Cutbert Nyasango, Zimbabwe

    2:13:19 (Berlin, 2009)

    Alejandro Suarez, Mexico

    2:13:33 (Torreon, 2009)

    Josh Rohatinsky, USA

    2:14:23 (New York City, 2008)

    Antonio Vega, USA

    2:15:45 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, 2009)

    Mohammed Amyn, Morocco

    Debut

    Women’s Open Field

    Personal Best

    Salina Kosgei, Kenya

    2:23:22 (Berlin, 2006)

    Catherine Ndereba, Kenya

    2:18:47 (Chicago, 2001) NR

    Madai Perez, Mexico

    2:22:59 (Chicago, 2006) NR

    Teyba Erkesso, Ethiopia

    2:23:53 (Houston, 2010)

    Dire Tune, Ethiopia

    2:24:40 (Houston, 2008)

    Lidiya Grigoryeva, Russia

    2:25:10 (Los Angeles, 2006)

    Weiwei Sun, China

    2:25:15 (Beijing, 2002)

    Bruna Genovese, Italy

    2:25:28 (Boston, 2006)

    Albina Mayorova-Ivanova, Russia

    2:25:35 (Chicago, 2003)

    Yurika Nakamura, Japan

    2:25:51 (Nagoya, 2008)

    Agnes Kiprop, Kenya

    2:26:22 (Turin, 2009)

    Nailya Yulamanova, Russia

    2:26:30 (Rotterdam, 2009)

    Koren Jelela Yal, Ethiopia

    2:28:41 (Venice, 2009)

    Waynishet Girma, Ethiopia

    2:29:50 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    Tatyana Pushkareva, Russia

    2:30:30 (San Antonio, 2009)

    Meseret Legese, Ethiopia

    2:31:37 (Padova, 2009)

    Michelle Frey, USA

    2:35:51 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, 2006)

    Mestewat Tufa, Ethiopia

    Debut

    Chaofeng Jia, China

    Debut

    Men’s Open Field

    Personal Best

    Deriba Merga, Ethiopia

    2:06:38 (London, 2008)

    Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:07:14 (Boston, 2006) CR

    Ryan Hall, USA

    2:06:17 (London, 2008)

    Abderrahim Goumri, Morocco

    2:05:30 (London, 2008)

    Gilbert Yegon, Kenya

    2:06:18 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    Robert Kiprono Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:06:23 (Frankfurt, 2009)

    Evans Cheruiyot, Kenya

    2:06:25 (Chicago, 2008)

    Chala Dechase, Ethiopia

    2:06:33 (Dubai, 2010)

    Elijah Keitany, Kenya

    2:06:41 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    David Kipkorir Mandago, Kenya

    2:06:53 (Paris, 2009)

    Benjamin Maiyo, Kenya

    2:07:09 (Chicago, 2005)

    Tekeste Kebede, Ethiopia

    2:07:52 (Fukuoka, 2009)

    Gashaw Asfaw, Ethiopia

    2:08:03 (Paris, 2006)

    John Kipkorir Komen, Kenya

    2:08:06 (Reims, 2008)

    Samuel Mugo, Kenya

    2:08:20 (Beijing, 2009)

    Stephen Kiogora, Kenya

    2:08:24 (Frankfurt, 2008)

    Mebrahtom Keflezighi, USA

    2:09:15 (New York City, 2009)

    Moses Kipkosgei Kigen, Kenya

    2:10:12 (Nairobi, 2009)

    Abdellah Falil, Morocco

    2:12:37 (Turin, 2009)

    Jason Lehmkuhle, USA

    2:12:54 (New York City, 2007)

    Cutbert Nyasango, Zimbabwe

    2:13:19 (Berlin, 2009)

    Alejandro Suarez, Mexico

    2:13:33 (Torreon, 2009)

    Josh Rohatinsky, USA

    2:14:23 (New York City, 2008)

    Antonio Vega, USA

    2:15:45 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, 2009)

    Mohammed Amyn, Morocco

    Debut

    Women’s Open Field

    Personal Best

    Salina Kosgei, Kenya

    2:23:22 (Berlin, 2006)

    Catherine Ndereba, Kenya

    2:18:47 (Chicago, 2001) NR

    Madai Perez, Mexico

    2:22:59 (Chicago, 2006) NR

    Teyba Erkesso, Ethiopia

    2:23:53 (Houston, 2010)

    Dire Tune, Ethiopia

    2:24:40 (Houston, 2008)

    Lidiya Grigoryeva, Russia

    2:25:10 (Los Angeles, 2006)

    Weiwei Sun, China

    2:25:15 (Beijing, 2002)

    Bruna Genovese, Italy

    2:25:28 (Boston, 2006)

    Albina Mayorova-Ivanova, Russia

    2:25:35 (Chicago, 2003)

    Yurika Nakamura, Japan

    2:25:51 (Nagoya, 2008)

    Agnes Kiprop, Kenya

    2:26:22 (Turin, 2009)

    Nailya Yulamanova, Russia

    2:26:30 (Rotterdam, 2009)

    Koren Jelela Yal, Ethiopia

    2:28:41 (Venice, 2009)

    Waynishet Girma, Ethiopia

    2:29:50 (Amsterdam, 2009)

    Tatyana Pushkareva, Russia

    2:30:30 (San Antonio, 2009)

    Meseret Legese, Ethiopia

    2:31:37 (Padova, 2009)

    Michelle Frey, USA

    2:35:51 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, 2006)

    Mestewat Tufa, Ethiopia

    Debut

    Chaofeng Jia, China

    Debut

    Only a Few More Days to Enter the Ironman World Championship Lottery!

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    Attention aspiring Kona racers!

    Each year, Ironman has a lottery for entry into the Ironman World Championship held in Kona, Hawaii. This year’s race will be held on Saturday, October 9.

    The lottery entry will set you back $40, orif you prefer $50 to be entered via the “Passport Club” which gets you some additional bells and whistles which include and increased chance at hitting the lottery!

    There are only three ways to get to race in Kona! You can qualify via another Ironman event, you can win the charitable Ebay auction, or this way, which seems to be the easiest way to go!

    Click here to secure you lottery entry for the 2010 Ironman World Championship!

    Bi-Lo Myrtle Beach Marathon Cancelled

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    To all those whose plans were squashed by this, I’m so sorry! I’ll keep an eye out for more news.

    Meb, Abdi, Fam to Run NYC Half-Marathon

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    NEW YORK — Reigning ING New York City Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi of the United States will return to the scene of his finest triumph to compete in the first spring running of the NYC Half-Marathon on Sunday, March 21. Keflezighi will be running in his first competitive race since his win in New York last November.

    Joining Keflezighi will be a trio of outstanding compatriots including three-time Olympian Abdi Abdirahman, two-time Olympic steeplechaser Anthony Famiglietti, and former NCAA cross country champion Josh Rohatinsky. All men will join the previously announced long distance legend, marathon world record-holder, and 2007 NYC Half-Marathon champion Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia.

    “Meb’s victory in New York last November was one of the shining moments in the storied history of our race and sport,” Wittenberg said. “Meb and the American athletes are stronger than ever. Each will be looking to take on Haile and the others in what promises to be a spectacular run through the city streets.”

    Keflezighi, 34, of San Diego, CA, made history in 2009, becoming the first American male to win the ING New York City Marathon since Alberto Salazar’s victory in 1982. His winning time of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 15 seconds was a personal best. The win was the pinnacle of his already illustrious career, which includes a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic marathon and a second-place finish at the ING New York City Marathon 2004. A three-time national 10,000-meter champion (2000, 2002, 2004), Keflezighi holds the American record at that distance (27:13.98) and has won 20 USA titles during his career.

    “Coming back to race in New York after the victory in the ING New York City Marathon will be very special for me and my supporters,” said Keflezighi, who will also be one of the leading contenders at the Boston Marathon in April. “I was a part of the inaugural NYC Half-Marathon in 2006 and I am delighted to be competing in the new spring edition.”

    The 2007 NYC Half-Marathon runner-up, Abdirahman, 33, of Tucson, AZ, will return to New York after finishing ninth in the 2009 ING New York City Marathon in November. A four-time USA champion at 10,000 meters, Abdirahman will be making his fourth appearance in the NYC Half-Marathon after finishing third in his half-marathon debut in 2006, second in 2007 to Gebrselassie, and fourth in 2009.

    New York native Famiglietti, 31, of Knoxville, TN, will be making his half-marathon debut in New York. A two-time Olympic steeplechaser and 2009 USA 15K Championship winner, Famiglietti returns to New York after his 12th-place finish in the Healthy Kidney 10K in 2009.

    Rohatinsky, 27, of Portland, OR, will be making his NYC Half-Marathon debut. The 2006 NCAA cross country champion, Rohatinsky was ninth at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and finished seventh overall in the ING New York City Marathon 2008 in a personal best time of 2:14:23.

    Previously announced, the NYC Half-Marathon will offer the largest half-marathon prize purse in the United States: $100,000. The men’s and women’s champions will each earn $20,000, the largest first-prize checks for a non-marathon race in the country.

    The NYC Half-Marathon continues to attract leading professional athletes and recreational runners from around the world. In 2009, more than 19,000 people applied to run the race, and more than 10,000 finished.

    On a course designed to celebrate New York City, the NYC Half-Marathon will take runners on a loop through Central Park, down Seventh Avenue through Times Square, across 42nd Street, and along the expansive West Side Highway to Battery Park in the heart of the city’s financial district, finishing with a view of the Statue of Liberty.

    Courtesy of New York Road Runners

    John Hancock Announces Return of Defending and Past Champions to 2010 Boston Marathon

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    BOSTON, Feb. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — John Hancock Financial today announced the return of 2009 Boston Marathon champions Deriba Merga of Ethiopia and Salina Kosgei of Kenya for the 114th running of the race on April 19.

    John Hancock has also signed past champions Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot and Catherine Ndereba of Kenya, Dire Tune of Ethiopia, and Lidiya Grigoryeva of Russia.

    In the 2009 men’s race, Deriba Merga of Ethiopia clipped Robert Kipkoech Cheruiyot’s three-in-a-row streak and ran away from the lead pack in the Newton hills, unchallenged to the finish.  Merga is just one of three Ethiopians to interrupt Kenyan dominance of the event over the past two decades.

    Cheruiyot, a four-time Boston winner and the 2:07:14 course record holder, is back again, fresh from a runner-up spot in New York City.  The formidable Kenyan shares the honor of at least four Boston wins with Gerard Cote and Bill Rodgers (4 wins each) and Clarence DeMar (7 wins).

    In the 2009 women’s race, Salina Kosgei was challenged every step of the way by a determined Dire Tune who sought to defend her 2008 title. In the closest finish ever recorded, Kosgei edged an exhausted Tune at the tape to win by one second.  The year before, Tune was on the winning end of the finish sprint as she dueled to the wire with Russian Alevtina Biktimirova, prevailing by two seconds.

    Challenging Kosgei and Tune are former winners Lidiya Grigoryeva and Catherine Ndereba.  A year after winning the 2007 “Nor’easter” Boston Marathon, Grigoryeva brilliantly won over a highly competitive field in Chicago.  And “Catherine the Great” needs no reintroduction to Boston as she has written the history books here as the only woman to ever win four times.  Ndereba is the second fastest woman marathoner of all time (2:18:47) and has earned two Olympic silver medals and two World Marathon Championship titles.

    “As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of our sponsorship, John Hancock Financial could not be more excited with the outstanding global field of runners we will have in Boston this year. We are thrilled to have Deriba and Salina back to defend their titles and wish them all the best. They are certain to be part of another great race as they will be challenged by Robert, Catherine, Dire and Lidiya, all past champions and among the world’s best,” said Jim Boyle, President of John Hancock Financial. “In the next few months, we will round out the field, announcing the participation of other elite runners, but this list today gives a sense of why the world’s top runners return to Boston every spring on Patriot’s Day. They want the challenge of beating the best on one of the world’s great courses to win the Boston Marathon, inarguably one of the world’s premier road races.”

    Mr. Boyle added that John Hancock is pleased to again fulfill its promise to the city of Boston and surrounding communities with its continued, steadfast support of the race.

    “Not only will the Boston Marathon once again be a great event for spectators, it also continues to be a tremendous economic benefit for Boston and the region, generating a direct and indirect economic impact estimated at $110 million,” he said.

    “John Hancock Financial’s effort to bring back our defending champions whenever possible has been a priority, leading to compelling stories and interesting match-ups,” said Guy Morse, Executive Director of the Boston Athletic Association. “By its commitment over the last quarter century, John Hancock has helped maintain Boston’s position among the world’s most elite marathons.”

    About John Hancock and Manulife Financial

    Manulife Financial is a leading Canadian-based financial services group serving millions of customers in 22 countries and territories worldwide. Operating as Manulife Financial in Canada and Asia, and primarily through John Hancock in the United States, the Company offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners. Funds under management by Manulife Financial and its subsidiaries were Cdn$436.5 billion (US$407.1 billion) as at September 30, 2009. Manulife Financial Corporation trades as ‘MFC’ on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under ’945′ on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.

    The John Hancock unit, through its insurance companies, comprises one of the largest life insurers in the United States. John Hancock offers a broad range of financial products and services, including life insurance, fixed and variable annuities, fixed products, mutual funds, 401(k) plans, long-term care insurance, college savings, and other forms of business insurance. Additional information about John Hancock may be found at www.johnhancock.com.

    SOURCE John Hancock Financial

    RELATED LINKS
    http://www.johnhancock.com

    Ironman Announces 70.3 U.S. Pro Championship and Title Sponsor

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    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.

    Day 23: Race Eve

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    From Me and the Road

    January 23, 2010

    Date: 1/23/09

    Consecutive Days Run: 23

    Runner: Brandon Wood

    Shoes: Sir Isaac Guidance Trainers

    Location: New York, NY

    Type of Run: Easy

    Time of Day: 6:17 PM EST

    Distance Run: 3.40 miles

    Time Run: 00:26:44

    Average Pace: 7:52 per mile

    Weather Conditions: Cold-ish (37 degrees Fahrenheit), clear

    Disposition: Good

    Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/23050803

    About the Run: Tomorrow morning is the Manhattan Half-Marathon as part of the New York Road Runners half-Marathon series. My goal time is 1:35:00. This would be a PR by 9 full minutes. I am being paced by the one and only Laminator and could not ask for someone better to get me there.

    As I write this, it is 11:21 PM EST and I should be in bed, and will be as soon as I finish posting. As always though, nerves are having their say in my head. I’m not really nervous in a negative way, but more in a very anticipatory way. I cannot wait to get out there and push myself! This race will mark only the second race where I actually have a goal time, the first being the Philadelphia Marathon (where I missed my time). The race is taking place in Central Park and is two (2) counter clockwise loops of the park. This is an extremely technical course with plenty of hills as I mentioned in my post yesterday, and not exactly the best place to be going for a PR, but I believe I can do it! I’m going to stop talking about this now, because it’s getting to me a bit…

    Today’s assigned run was: Do some short 20-30 second pick-up during this easy run. Cool down, and get off your feet for the rest of the day. I headed out feeling good at my usual comfortable pace, making a point of keeping my head out of my run. On my way back there is a hill which is similar, if not a bit steeper than Cat Hill in Central Park (albeit a bit shorter). I took the opportunity to take the split on my way up, being sure to keep a consistent EFFORT rather than a consistent speed, which is what Lam and I are aiming for tomorrow. Mission accomplished.

    Race details to come!

    Day 21: Some More Speed

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    From Me and the Road

    January 21, 2010

    Date: 1/21/09

    Consecutive Days Run: 21

    Runner: Brandon Wood

    Shoes: Newton AW Trainers

    Location: New York, NY

    Type of Run: mile repeats

    Time of Day: 2:27 PM EST

    Distance Run: 5.16 miles

    Time Run: 00:37:26

    Average Pace: 7:15 per mile

    Weather Conditions: Cold-ish (37 degrees Fahrenheit), clear

    Disposition: Good

    Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/22887589

    About the Run: Just as I sat down to write this it hit me that I’ve been running every day for three solid weeks! I know that this isn’t saying a whole lot in the grand scheme of things (seeing as I’m aiming to run 52 weeks in a row), but it does mark the most days I’ve run in a row, ever. Just thought I’d point that out before writing the rest of this!

    I am now three days out from running the New York Road Runners Manhattan Half-Marathon as part of the Half-Marathon Grand Prix. Since I didn’t explain the whole “Grand Prix” part yesterday, I thought I’d take a second to do it now. It is a series of five half-marathons, one in each borough of New York City: Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island. Of the five, I did Brooklyn and Queens in 2009. Brooklyn, which ended at Coney Island, was so much fun and I ran what it, to date, my PR. Queens, on the other hand, was a giant mess! Not only was I only SEVEN days past Ironman Wisconsin, but the organization of transportation to and from the race site was less than stellar. Myself and about fifty other runners were dropped off about 2.5 miles from the start and about thirty minutes late! We had to run the 2.5 miles to the start and THEN begin. Not fun.

    Anyway, I will get more into my goals and such for the Manhattan Half in the next couple of days.

    Today was my last hard-ish run before the race. My assigned run was the same as it was on Tuesday: Warm up for 1 mile then run 3×1 mile at your 5K race pace. 2 minute recover between. I tried to be much more diligent about keeping track of the different sections or splits of this workout so I could really pinpoint what I was doing. My mile splits were as follows:

    Mile 1: 6:21

    Mile 2: 6:17

    Mile 3: 6:27

    They felt good with the exception of a tiny hotspot just behind the ball of my right foot in the last mile. I really do enjoy letting fly for speed stuff and I cannot wait until my fitness is back to where it should be! I must say though that I am running rather quick for me seeing as a year ago, I was running somewhere in the neighborhood of 8 minutes a mile in a race. I have to give kudos here to my coach, Jeff. I know that it’s me who has to do the work, but with Jeff’s guidance I have become a much stronger athlete.

    Day 20: Writer’s Block

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    January 20, 2010

    Date: 1/20/09

    Consecutive Days Run: 20

    Runner: Brandon Wood

    Shoes: Newton AW Trainers

    Location: New York, NY

    Type of Run: mile repeats

    Time of Day: 6:42 PM EST

    Distance Run: 2.24 miles

    Time Run: 00:17:13

    Average Pace: 7:41 per mile

    Weather Conditions: Cold-ish (37 degrees Fahrenheit), clear

    Disposition: Good

    Link to Run Detail: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/22822973

    About the Run: I knew that point would come, and come pretty quickly I might add, when I would find myself with a mild case of writer’s block. I figured this would happen simply by virtue of the fact that my short, routine runs would become just that, short and routine and I wouldn’t have too much to say about them. Today is the first of what I suspect will be many such days. (I’d like to add that I’m working on a solution to this.)

    Today’s assigned workout was 3500 meters in the pool. While I used to feel it when I ran after having swum a few hours before, my legs have gotten so used to running every day that I don’t notice a thing. Today is also kind of unique because it is the first pseudo taper day leading up to a race. In case you’re not aware of what tapering is, it is the period leading up to an event when you give your body less of a workout or what is ostensibly, rest. This coming Sunday, January 24 is the first race in the New York Road Runners Half-Marathon Grand Prix, the Manhattan Half-Marathon. Hence the taper.

    This gem of a race (please not a tiny bit of sarcasm) takes place solely in the great Central Park. The course is this, as explained by the NYRR website:

    The start is on West Drive at 63rd Street. Runners will complete two full counterclock wise loops of the Park. On the third loop runners will complete the southern loop of the Park and enter the 72nd Street Transverse from East Drive. The finish line will be at the eastern-most entrance to the Bandshell.

    Central Park is beautiful and amazing to be sure, but when you’re a New Yorker (by default) and you’ve run the outer loop upwards of a babillion times, it can be a little boring, but oh well! It is also anything but a flat course. The course on Sunday will include two devilish treats for runners (twice each); Cat Hill and Harlem Hill.

    Tonight’s run was nice. I took it out easy and pushed it for the last mile or so, holding down a steady sub-6:30 pace. I made sure not to tax my legs too much, but I really just felt like I needed to stretch things out a bit, and give myself a little test on some hills I run routinely. All in all, very nice and relaxing!

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