Ryan Hall's Blog, page 190

Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Kicks off Marathon Weekend with Saturday 5K and KiDS ROCK

Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona kicked off race weekend with the Rock ‘n’ Roll 5K on Saturday. Thousands of runners toed the start line, which took place in Tempe Beach Park. Upon finishing, participants were treated to live music and a beer garden at the finish line festival. Children of all ages also got participate in Saturday’s festivities with the annual KiDS ROCK race, which also started and finished in Tempe Beach Park. Sunday is the main event with the marathon, half marathon and 10K. Participants that ran the 5K and any distance on Sunday will earn the coveted Remix Challenge medal in addition to each race’s finisher medals.

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6 Unique Destination Race Ideas for Your Next Vacation

Photo: Courtesy of Kyoto Marathon

Going on a trip? Why not do a race, too, in one of these six racing destinations that’ll rouse your inner wanderlust.

RELATED: Why You Should Plan a ‘Runcation’ (And Travel Tips for Runners)

Kyoto Marathon

Feb. 19, Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto-marathon.com/en

In Japan, the Tokyo Marathon receives most of the international spotlight. However, the Kyoto Marathon reveals Japan’s more culturally traditional side. The point-to-point course passes by seven temples and historical sites built centuries ago, finishing near Heian-Jingu Shrine. It also provides scenic views of the five surrounding mountains, and winds through the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, providing a more natural and peaceful contrast to the towering buildings and flashing lights of Tokyo

The Great Wall Marathon

May 21, Tianjin, China

Great-wall-marathon.com

Put this once-in-a-lifetime race on your bucket list, but train as if you’re going to run an ultra-distance mountain race. While it’s “only” a 26.2-mile marathon, it has a ridiculous amount of vertical gain and drop on steep staircases as the Great Wall of China winds through the Chinese countryside.

Great Ocean Running Festival

May 20–21, Victoria, Australia

Greatoceanroadrunfest.com.au

Formerly known as the Great Ocean Road Marathon, this stunning race along Australia’s southernmost coastline has expanded to several races from 1.5K to 60K. Grab a mate and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean in any of the distances.

Rio Maratona

June 18, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Maratonadorio.com.br/en

This race will give you the chance to see Rio de Janeiro you saw on Olympic broadcasts last summer. The course passes by the sandy shores of Ipanema and Copacabana and 2016 Olympic venues, with lively crowds that give this race a party atmosphere. Views of the impressive and towering Christ the Redeemer statue welcome runners at the finish, where the real party begins.

Islandsbanki Reykjavik Marathon

Aug. 19, Reykjavik, Iceland

Marathon.is/reykjavik-marathon

Travelers have discovered the stunning beauty of Iceland’s snow-covered mountains, glaciers and other natural features. Luckily for runners, Iceland also has a marathon in the country’s small but captivating capital. After the race, celebrate with locals at Culture Night, a festival with live music, food and beer and a fireworks show.

Kauai Marathon

Sept. 3, Kauai, Hawaii

Thekauaimarathon.com

Starting from Poipu, the course makes its way out to the coastline where picturesque beaches and rugged volcanic peaks come into view before heading into the island’s lush tropical forests. The highlight comes in last few miles on the climb to the finish at Kukui’ula Resort.

Cape Town Marathon

Sept. 17, Cape Town, South Africa

Capetownmarathon.com

The breathtaking course of this race starts in Green Point Urban Park near the sea and takes runners along Cape Town Harbor, through the city, along the tree-lined streets of the outlying neighborhoods below Devil’s Peak and Table Mountain, and past iconic landmarks in the city center before finishing in Cape Town Stadium.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Montreal Marathon

Sept. 23-24, Montreal, Canada

Runrocknroll.com

Rock out on the streets of Quebec’s largest city in one of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon series international races. (Other race distances included a 1K, 5K, 10K and half marathon.) Running through the streets, you’ll experience neighborhoods with cobblestoned, French colonial influences that’ll mentally place you in Europe, and not just across the border.

Berlin Marathon

Sept. 24, Berlin, Germany

Bmw-berlin-marathon.com/en

This flat and fast course has been the site of nine world records over the past 18 years. The course winds through the Berlin metropolis and starts and finishes near Brandenburg Gate, the city’s iconic 18th century neoclassical triumphal arch.

RELATED: 6 Adult Running Camp Escapes to Recharge Your Running

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6 Adult Running Camp Escapes to Recharge Your Running

REI Outessa Summit, Photo: Alice Baker

If you’re in a running rut or looking to rediscover yourself through running or just want a little “me time,” the following running camps and retreats will help you find what you’re looking for.

RELATED:  Why You Should Plan a ‘Runcation’ (And Travel Tips for Runners)

Nike Adult Runners Retreat

Feb. 22–26, Yulee, Fla.

Ussportscamps.com/running/nike

Adult runners of all levels can experience running in an African safari type of environment without having to leave the country. This five-day retreat is hosted at the White Oak Conservation Center in Florida, a 700-acre land preservation home to some of Africa’s most endangered species. Runners will have access to 25 miles of the center’s dirt roads and receive guidance from Coach Roy Benson, whose program develops personalized training plans for an upcoming goal race using his Effort Based Training method. Also, campers go on a group wildlife tour of the grounds.

Wilder Running & Writing Retreats

May 26–29 (women only), Aug. 25–28 (men and women), Sisters, Ore.

Wilderrunning.com

This three-day retreat organized by professional runner and author Lauren Fleshman is designed to plow through writer’s block, overcome running ruts and open runner-writer’s eyes to how both of their passions can overlap and influence each other. Author and sociologist Marianne Elliott offers her expertise in writing, while former professional runner and entrepreneur Lauren Fleshman takes attendees through carefully planned runs designed to both challenge and inspire your writing. In order to attend, each attendee is selected based on an extensive application process, matching personalities together for small group interaction.

Mammoth Running Escape

August, Mammoth Lakes, Calif.

Deenakastor.com/escape

Three-time Olympian Deena Kastor will be leading this running camp, but the program is less about hardcore training and running fast, and more about overall running wellness. Hence, the camp is a mix between sport, relaxation and fun that includes non-running activities like a cooking class led by Kastor, delicious post-run brunches, a sunset uphill race, and an insightful discussion about adding positivity to your life. The program is all-inclusive and meant for all levels of runners—and more importantly, reflects what Kastor believes to be the key ingredients to running success.

Hut Run Hut

July/August, Aspen, Colo.

Hutrunhut.com

This six-day run covers 100 miles from Aspen to Vail, Colo., traversing a portion of the Rockies while resting at five of the secluded 10th Mountain Division Hut Association structures, remotely nestled at 11,000 feet. The intimate adventure—only 11 spots are available, plus five running guides—is open to “anybody that is up for the challenge,” according to their site. But be aware that this run requires 10 to 25 miles of running each day at elevations between 9,000 to 13,000 feet. Otherwise, look forward to a warm rustic hut and gourmet high-mountain dinners (like grilled lamb chops and lemony kale salad) every night for a week after a long yet satisfying day of running.

REI Outessa Summit

July (Northern California), August (Pacific Northwest), September (Northeast)

Outessa.com

Although this three-day women’s-only outdoor summit isn’t strictly a running camp—with opportunities to participate in beginner to advanced climbing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, yoga, kayaking, and gourmet campfire cooking activities too—it does include plenty of trail running within a stunning alpine setting. From quick sunrise mountain runs to night runs through forested paths as well as opportunities to run with professional trail runners like Stevie Kremer and Magdalena Lewy-Boulet on every outing, this camp is perfect for the well-rounded wild woman seeking adventure.

Running With the Bruces

July/August, Flagstaff, Ariz.

Stephandbenbruce.com

Husband and wife professional running duo Stephanie and Ben Bruce lead this four-day Training Camp in their home city of Flagstaff. According to the camp description on the Bruces’ website, “The camp has no speed limits and is open to all levels of ability.” Nonetheless, expect drills and stride sessions, and a focus on improving form early on in the camp that aims to make you a more efficient runner than before. Trainees will also have access to the Bruces’ masseuse and chiropractor for bodywork and assessment, along with the endless dirt trails among the aspens and pine trees of this quaint mountain town.

RELATED: 6 Unique Destination Race Ideas for Your Next Vacation

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Why You Should Plan a ‘Runcation’ (And Travel Tips for Runners)

The Great Ocean Marathon in Victoria, Australia. Photo: Courtesy of Great Ocean Running Festival

You’ve probably had some memorable runs on just about every vacation you’ve ever been on, but have you ever planned a vacation almost solely around running?

Planning a “runcation” is like any other vacation, except the trip’s main attraction is a race, a running camp or other running-related event. Instead of packing the usual travel essentials, you’ll be stuffing your suitcase with running clothes and shoes, Body Glide, and all the chews, bars and liquids (within TSA regulations) you can possibly fit.

But what makes a runcation more exciting than a regular trip is the ability to view a new place from an entirely different perspective than if you weren’t traveling there to run. Running frees you from the tourist traps and allows you to explore the secret nooks and crannies of a city or discover an outdoor wonder.

It also makes you feel better after a trip. Ever come back home feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation? A runcation, especially one centered around a running camp, retreat or race, can actually make you feel more rejuvenated, motivated and fit than before you left. And because that’s what a vacation should be about—tending to both your physical and mental health and wellness—we’ve put together a guide of running camps and race destinations (mostly outside of the U.S.) to mark down on your 2017 calendar, and inspire your best (and healthiest!) running adventure yet.

5 Quick Travel Tips for Runners

1. Pack light.

The best part of running apparel these days is that everything is lightweight and made of quick-drying fabrics. So no need to bring every pair of running shorts and tees you own—a pair of shorts, a couple tops and a light weatherproof jacket can last you an entire week.

2. Bring a large plastic bag.

This will come in handy for muddy or wet runs, and sweaty clothing you need to pack away right after use.

3. Carry on running clothes and shoes.

If you’re flying, pack a running outfit, shoes and other essentials, like meds, in your carry-on. If your checked bag doesn’t arrive with your or gets lost, at least you have what you need to run.

4. Stand and walk around the airport as much as possible.

You’ll be doing plenty of sitting on the plane. Plus, it sets an active tone for the rest of the trip.

5. Make running a part of your itinerary.

If you’re attending a running camp, then this is a no-brainer. But if you’re going for a race or just want to incorporate running into the trip, then you’ll be held more accountable when you’ve made it part of your schedule, just like at home.

The post Why You Should Plan a ‘Runcation’ (And Travel Tips for Runners) appeared first on Competitor.com.

25 Fun Half Marathons You’ll Want to Run This Year

Running 13.1 miles is far and away the most popular racing distance nowadays. Sure, it’s considered an ideal amount of miles to run, both because it’s still a big challenge but not overwhelmingly so like a marathon. Here are our favorite can’t-miss halfs in 2017. Because the distance is so popular, sign up quickly for the ones you want to run.

RELATED: 25 Must-Do American Marathons in 2017

Key West Half Marathon

Jan. 15, Key West, Fla.

Keywesthalfmarathon.com

Key West is known for its laid-back attitude, so you can’t be too disappointed if you don’t hit a PR at this 19th annual event that draws 2,500 people each year to the island that’s closer to Cuba than Miami. Runners will enjoy a flat and fast course that tours both downtown Key West as well as scenic parts of the island, with ocean views nearly the entire route.

3M Half Marathon

Jan. 22, Austin, Texas

3mhalfmarathon.com

More than 7,000 runners will converge on the Texas capital for this 22nd annual race. The course features rolling hills—but with a net drop of about 500 feet on this point-to-point course, you’ll find yourself going downhill much of the way. The route offers a good taste of Austin, with both funky neighborhoods, the urban downtown and the University of Texas campus all featured prominently.  

Humana Rock ’n’ Roll New Orleans Half Marathon

Feb. 5, New Orleans

Runrocknroll.com

The Big Easy is known for its parties. This one just happens to take place across 13.1 miles in one of the country’s most unique cities. Enjoy getting a taste of Cajun culture on this point-to-point half marathon course with lots of local musicians along the route. The post-race party at City Park is sure to do New Orleans proud, and you can enjoy all the French Quarter has to offer before and after your run.

 

San Francisco Half Marathon

Feb. 5, San Francisco

Getfitkpsf.com

Considered one of the most scenic half marathons in the U.S., the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Half Marathon has been named the road race of the year by the Road Runners Club of America. Most of the course is run in Golden Gate Park and along the Great Highway, with incredible ocean and city views the entire way. The point-to-point route is relatively flat, with a net drop in elevation.

Alamo 13.1

March 19, San Antonio, Texas

Alamo131.com

Be ready to run when the muskets are fired at the Alamo in San Antonio. This popular half marathon starts and finishes at the historic Texas site, and runners will follow a route that offers some of the best cultural icons in the city. After the race, the beer will be flowing at the Alamo to celebrate the finish.

Mercer Island Half Marathon

March 19, Mercer Island, Wash.

Mercerislandhalf.com

This race just outside of Seattle celebrates its 45th anniversary this year—and you can understand why it continues to be so popular. Held on an island in Lake Washington between Seattle and Bellevue, the race makes a full loop of the island. Runners can expect rolling hills the entire way, with a couple of steeper climbs and descents, plus excellent views.

United Airlines NYC Half

March 19, New York City

Nyrr.org

This half marathon through Manhattan has quickly become nearly as popular as the full marathon through the city’s five boroughs in the fall. That means you’ll most likely need to win a lottery spot or raise money for charity to enter. But if you get a coveted spot, you get to run 13.1 miles New York—including right through Times Square.

Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon

April 1, Springfield, Ill.

Runabe.srrc.net

You don’t need to be a Civil War buff to enjoy the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon, which offers a tour of historic sites in Springfield. This year the race celebrates its 53rd running, and while the first half is relatively flat, the second half offers some hilly terrain, at least by Illinois standards. Participants run past the Old State Capitol, the Lincoln Law Office and the only home Lincoln ever owned.

Chick-Fil-A Connect Half Marathon

April 1, Athens, Ga.

Cfahalf.com

Athens, home to the University of Georgia, hosts this annual half marathon that offers runners a tour of the city and much of the campus on this loop course. You’ll find mostly rolling hills along the way, with a big climb between miles 7 and 8, but nothing too outrageous.

 

Star Wars Half Marathon—The Dark Side

April 23, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Rundisney.com

The ability to finish a half marathon is insignificant next to the power of the Force. Expect to hear this and other Star Wars tributes from fans who have not one but two themed races to choose from at the Walt Disney World Resort this year. The Light Side focuses on the good guys, but everyone knows the Dark Side is more fun—if only to see people running a half marathon dressed in full Darth Vader costume.

500 Festival Mini-Marathon

May 6, Indianapolis

Indymini.com

One of the largest half marathons in the U.S., this race draws 35,000 runners each year to Indianapolis. The course highlights the downtown neighborhoods while also taking a lap on the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The 41st annual race is part of the city’s month-long celebration of the Indianapolis 500, and it traditionally draws a strong elite field as well as runners from across the country.

Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon

May 7, Portland, Ore.

Terrapinevents.com

This celebration of Mexico takes place in Portland, starting and finishing at Pioneer Courthouse Square while hitting most of the downtown neighborhoods, including Chinatown, the Pearl District and Slabtown. Live music will be found all along the scenic course, and the post-race party will feature drinks from Lagunitas and Two Towns Cider, plus plenty of food.

Yosemite Half Marathon

May 13, Bass Lake, Calif.

Yosemitehalfmarathon.com

Not that you need an excuse to visit one of the country’s most beautiful National Parks, but the Yosemite Half Marathon gives you just that. The first 5 miles are on somewhat rugged fire roads and trail. Miles 6 to 10 are on paved roads and feature a significant descent, with the last few miles on relatively flat roads around Bass Lake.

 

Boston’s Run to Remember Half Marathon

May 29, Boston, Mass.

Bostonsruntoremember.com

This 13th annual race in downtown Boston honors first responders that have been killed in the line of duty, and money raised is donated to local children’s charities. The race, which draws more than 9,000 runners, starts at Boston’s Seaport World Trade Center and takes runners past many of the city’s historic sites along the way.

Covered Bridges Half Marathon

June 4, Woodstock, Vt.

Cbhm.com

What better way to tour rural Vermont than by running one of the state’s most scenic half marathons? The Covered Bridges Half Marathon starts in the small town of South Pomfret and features a point-to-point course that follows the Ottauquechee River through farmland and several notable covered bridges along the route. The race finishes in Quechee where you can enjoy food and live music.

 

Run the Rockies Half Marathon

June 3, Frisco, Colo.

Townoffrisco.com

This 41st annual race isn’t for the faint of heart, but runners up for a challenge are in for a treat. Frisco sits above 9,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains just west of Denver, so be prepared for the light air. The course is on both paved roads and dirt mountain bike trails, and 75 percent of the race is downhill, which should help those lungs a bit. The views of the Rockies should also help distract you.

Twilight Half Marathon

July 8, Vancouver, Wash.

Twilighthalf.com

If you’re not an early-morning runner, this race is for you. This flat and fast half marathon starts at 6 p.m., which means you’ll finish and enjoy the post-race party in the twilight of a summer evening in “The Couve.” As an added bonus, the pounding beats of The Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers will rev you up at the start.

Humana Rock ’n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon

July 16, Chicago

Runrocknroll.com

The Rock ’n’ Roll tour returns to Chicago for its ninth year of this popular race that brings people from all over the country to the city. Starting in Grant Park, the race takes runners among the downtown skyscrapers and the River North, Loop and Streeterville neighborhoods. Runners then head south before returning to downtown via the Lakefront, making for one of the great finishing views in the country.

Minnesota Half Marathon

Aug. 5, St. Paul, Minn.

Minnesotahalfmarathon.com

This half marathon in Minnesota’s state capital is unique for a number of reasons, the most obvious being that you don’t have to run it. That is, there’s an in-line skate race over the same course if you’d rather roll the 13.1 miles. But for runners, the out-and-back loop course along the Mississippi River provides an excellent way to see St. Paul and much of the green space that marks the city.

Madison Mini Marathon

Aug. 19, Madison, Wis.

Madisonminimarathon.com

This half marathon offers a scenic tour of downtown Madison and the University of Wisconsin campus. Participants will run past the Capitol building, Camp Randall Stadium and the Henry Vilas Zoo on a clockwise loop around the city. The 14th Mile post-race party is held at the Memorial Union Terrace, which overlooks Lake Mendota. Enjoy plenty of refreshments from the Wisconsin Brewing Company.

Pier to Peak Half Marathon

Sept. 3, Santa Barbara, Calif.

Runsantabarbara.com

This race dubs itself the “world’s toughest half marathon,” and there aren’t many races that will dispute it. The race starts at sea level on Stearns Wharf and climbs nearly 4,000 feet to the top of La Cumbra Peak. You at least have some flat terrain through downtown Santa Barbara before the grueling climbing begins. There’s a free ride back down after the race.

Rockfest Half Marathon

Oct. 1, Hampton, N.H.

Hamptonrockfest.com

This annual trek along the New Hampshire coast draws rave reviews from runners. The course features both waterfront running as well as a tour of some of the inland rural areas, and is considered one of the flattest courses in New England—especially helpful for those looking to PR. After the race, runners are treated to local favorites like lobster rolls, clam chowder, Smuttynose beer and Stonyfield yogurt.

Synchrony Financial Rock ‘n’ Roll Brooklyn Half Marathon

Oct. 14, Brooklyn, N.Y.

Runrocknroll.com

One of the newer races in the Rock ’n’ Roll series, the Brooklyn race started as a 10K before upping the distance to a half marathon in 2015. The streets of Brooklyn will be filled with bands and other live music as runners take a scenic tour of the borough that ends in Prospect Park.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Los Angeles Half Marathon

Oct. 29, Los Angeles

Runrocknroll.com

Put on your costume and take to the streets of Los Angeles to participate in the world’s largest Halloween-themed half marathon. Costumes are, of course, optional, but you will have plenty of company if you’re game. The course starts at the Staples Center and finishes at LA Live while giving runners a nice tour of downtown L.A.

GEICO Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon

Nov. 11-12, Las Vegas

Stripatnight.com

There’s nothing in running that comes close to this race, which runs up and down the famous Las Vegas Strip after dark. (The only other time that Las Vegas Boulevard is closed to traffic is on New Year’s Eve.) There are also 5K, 10K and marathon races and there’s always a major headliner to kick off the evening of racing, as Macklemore, Kid Rock and Snoop Dogg have fired up runners with hour-long concerts before the start in recent years. Viva Las Vegas, baby!

Photos: Courtesy of 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Courtesy of San Francisco Half Marathon, Courtesy of RunDisney, Courtesy of Boston’s Run to Remember Half Marathon, Courtesy of Run the Rockies Half Marathon, Kevin Morris

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New NYRR RUNCENTER is Home Away From Home for Runners

Photo: Courtesy of NYRR

(c) 2017 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved, Photos: Courtesy of NYRR

New York City runners have a new home away from home at the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the New Balance Run Hub, located on Manhattan’s West Side just two blocks south of Central Park. The newly opened facility will serve as a welcome center for area runners and be the primary bib number pick-up location for New York Road Runner (NYRR) races, and is also a retail store featuring New Balance merchandise. The gleaming space on West 57th Street also features exhibits showcasing NYYR’s history, including TCS New York City Marathon finisher medals, historical photographs and original race posters.

“My absolute favorite thing, and what struck me when I came this morning, is how I see the pictures and recognize the faces, and I remember the events,” said 2016 Olympic 1500m bronze medalist Jenny Simpson who visited the center today. “So, when you become part of the New York Road Runners community, you just feel very much a part of what they are doing. So, the familiarity, the love of the people on the walls, that’s what really struck me when I walked in the door.”

The RUNCENTER has been nearly a decade in the making, officials said, and is the product of a unique partnership between NYRR, America’s largest not-for-profit running race organizer, and New Balance, the Boston-based designer and manufacturer of running shoes and apparel. Last year, the two organizations signed a long-term marketing agreement, paving the way for opening the RUNCENTER.

“We have been talking about building a run center, possibly ten years in the works,” said NYRR president and chief executive officer, Michael Capiraso.  He continued: “The whole idea is to bring the community together.”

Set in a long, multi-level space, the RUNCENTER and New Balance Run Hub can be used daily by runners and other visitors. The facility includes 78 day-use lockers, for runners who need to store their belongings while out on a run, and there are four changing rooms. In the NYRR Running Lab, supported by sponsor TCS, there are touch screens to allow runners to search for their TCS New York City Marathon results (from any year), and view weekly race course maps. There is even bleacher-style seating called the Borough Steps, which seat up to 100 runners for events at the running lab, or just to hang out a few minutes prior to their runs. There is even free Wi-Fi provided by TCS.

“We have an incredible partner in New Balance who saw the vision and helped bring it to life,” Capiraso added. Another NYRR official, runner services chief Christine Burke, described the space as “7,000 square feet of runner nirvana.”

Probably the most unique feature of the space is the Run for Life Wall, featuring eight 48″ video touch screens. The wall has an interactive feature with videos of Jenny Simpson, which invite guests to perform exercises with Simpson, mimicking the 2011 world champion’s motions on the screen. Simpson demonstrated the system for the media today.

Finally, the RUNCENTER has a direct charitable component as part of NYRR’s mission to improve the lives of people through running and walking, especially children. Under the “1 For You, 1 For Youth,” program, New Balance will donate a pair of shoes to a participant in one of NYRR’s youth programs for every pair sold in the New Balance Run Hub. NYRR’s free youth running programs serve 215,000 children in nearly 900 schools and community centers in New York City and nationally.

“There’s no better spot,” observed NYRR president of events and TCS New York City Marathon race director, Peter Ciaccia who, like Capiraso, is a longtime runner.  “This will be the hub for runners to come.”

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The Essence of Adventure: How the Mountains Have Influenced My Running

This scene from the Imogene Pass Run in Colorado exemplifies the essence of running adventure—the simple notion that your own two feet can take you to amazing places and lead you to new challanges. Photo: Michelle Smith

Saturday, Sept. 9, 2000 dawned clear and brisk in the mountains of southern Colorado. I was one of 1,000 runners converging on Main Street in the idyllic mountain town of Ouray for the start of the Imogene Pass Run, a legendary and grueling 17.1 point-to-point race over the San Juan Mountains and down into the ski town of Telluride.

Ouray, aptly nicknamed “the Switzerland of America,” is nestled along the rushing Uncompahgre River and enclosed on three sides by massive mountain faces. The only way in or out of town is either via Highway 550, or by a maze of improbable, burly, rocky dirt roads originally built by intrepid miners during the silver and gold rushes of the late 1800s. The IPR course follows one of these roads 5,400 feet into the sky to the top of 13,114-foot Imogene Pass. This would be one of my longest runs ever, and though I knew that I was committing to a huge effort, I had no idea that I had arrived at the starting line of what would be for me much more than a race.

For the previous decade, much of my life revolved around an oval. As a middle-distance runner at Penn State, I barreled non-stop through a redline haze of anaerobic burn, training throughout the year—on the track, roads and in the gym—for a shot to knock a few seconds off my fastest 800-meter time. After several tough seasons with minimal improvement, I came on strong during my last year as a collegian, tasting enough success to motivate me to continue racing for two more years. As I grew weary of the arduous cyclical grind, something else was calling: The promise of adventure in lands over the western horizon. Like many before and after me, I answered the call, and found myself toeing that line in Ouray.

Boom! We were off, jostling for position on paved roads. Take away the cliffs above town and this start felt oddly similar to scores of mad dash road race starts that I had previously endured. But it was quickly apparent that this was a different beast as pavement gave way to the more rugged dirt of Camp Bird Road to begin the ascent to Imogene Pass.

I paced myself pretty well until the 7-mile mark at tree-line, when suddenly, I was smacked with the reality-check of high altitude mountain running. With heart rate sky high on the steepest part of the course, I was passed by many as skyrocketing heart rate and screaming legs forced me to hike, anathema to a short-distance specialist unfamiliar with accepted trail running tactics. Hitching gags emerged from my throat, and actual tears of delirious agony were shed as I suffered my way ever-upward on the increasingly rugged jeep road. The final 3 miles to the Pass were the longest I had ever experienced.

Then finally, I arrived at the top and a welcome aid station. With the world below my feet, the pain was replaced by a sense of accomplishment different than any I had previously felt. Knowing it was in the bag, the remaining 7.1 miles down Tomboy Road into Telluride felt like atmospheric re-entry as I gleefully ignited the afterburners, surging to a respectful 14th-place finish in my first real mountain run. But what stuck with me most was the feeling that I had experienced a journey of the body, mind, and spirit. I knew then that I would answer the call of outdoor adventure for the rest of my life.

I couldn’t get enough. The next morning, I shook off prolific soreness to charge up the legendary 14,158-foott Mount Sneffels, the monarch that reigns over Telluride. This time, there was no need to run back down, so I basked in the sun for an hour at the summit, absorbing the myriad of peaks around me. I watched raptors soar on thermals overhead, gazed downward into the dark couloirs gashing the northerly aspect of the mountain, and started to dream about all the other places that I wanted to go.

Over the past 16 years, the modes of travel during my journey have diversified, leading me to adopt various technical skills in the pursuit of personal challenges that seemed previously unattainable, like summiting the Grand Teton, climbing desert towers and snowboarding steep mountain faces. For a while, I ran very little to pursue other mountain activities, but have recently come back to trail running for its simplicity as life becomes more complicated with work and a child. To me, the trails deliver the essence of adventure, and all I need is a backpack, a weather-resistant shell, and a good pair of shoes.

Two years ago, I returned to southern Colorado for the Imogene Pass Run; this time in support of my wife Michelle. With our then-infant son in my arms, I joined the throng of spectators lining the final stretch in Telluride. Just as I was imagining the younger, super-aggro me crushing down that last 100 meters years ago, Michelle rounded the corner, her face illuminated with a charge that spoke of the joy of her own journey.

RELATED: How Trail Running Helped This Runner Explore a World Outside

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About the Author:

Jason Smith is the Director of Outdoor and Endurance for Inkwell Media, a social-first content and influencer distribution network based in Boulder, Colo.

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Adidas Rewards Portland Runners with Free Shoes on Record Cold Day

Photo: Courtesy of Adidas

As part of Adidas’ “Why I Run Portland” movement, the athletic company passed out free pairs of their performance BOOST and BOUNCE footwear to runners of Portland, Ore., for getting outside and braving the record freezing temps last week.

Adidas representatives drove around in colorful Adidas vans, hitting up popular Portland running spots, including Mt. Tabor, Eastbank Esplanade and Washington Park, where runners were able to try on pairs of the Ultra BOOST, Uncaged, Pure BOOST X, or AlphaBOUNCE styles. In exchange for a new free pair of Adidas running shoes, runners could either choose to donate their current pairs to the Boys & Girls Club of Portland or ship them back home.

Adidas officials said this is their way of thanking local runners who are sticking to their fitness goals and New Year’s resolutions regardless of the weather. “Thank you for running, Portland. You braved the cold, we brought the heat,” was the brand’s message for the day.

RELATED: Adidas Debuts Exclusive $333 3D Printer Running Shoes

RELATED: Adidas Makes Running Shoes from Recycled Ocean Plastic

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8 Ways to Improve Your Daily Diet and Eat Cleaner in 2017

You can make this balsamic roasted seasonal vegetables dish with a variety of seasonal crops. Photo: Courtesy of Real Athlete Diets

It’s been 2017 for just over a week and the all or nothing “fresh start” posts clogging social media feeds are already beginning to fade. The effort is valiant for sure, but often hard to follow through on.

If eating cleaner is something you really want, yet find hard to attain, perhaps what’s needed is a different mindset. As a runner, food is your friend; it really is fuel for all you do. Instead of examining your diet to figure out how to “Lose Those Last 5 Pounds!” or “Look Great in Your Running Kit!” look at it as a toolbox for improving run performance. Sounds more enticing, right? Eating cleaner is the key to making sure your body has what it needs to run that extra mile, dig deep for a finish line kick or even head out the door without so many aches and pains. Because the popular adage “you are what you eat,” holds true.

In case you’re wondering what it means to eat clean, ultrarunner and chef Kelly Bailey Newlon, co-founder of Real Athlete Diets (RAD) in Boulder, Colo., has an easy explanation.

“When we hear the term ‘eating clean,’ to us it simply means nothing but real, whole food is used, with nothing packaged or processed added,” says Newlon who takes into consideration the flavor, texture and health benefits of each ingredient (think fresh fruits and vegetables, non-processed grains, meats and seafood) when creating new recipes for her clients.

RELATED: Eat Like an Athlete—A Colorado Food Business that Fuels Performance

Heidi Buttery developed her interest in nutrition in 2013 while training for her first Ironman. She decided to try a whole foods diet and immediately noticed she had less inflammation (aka soreness) and was able to recover faster from workouts. She also slept better and had even energy throughout long workouts and the day. The positive transformation was so profound that she decided to leave her job in the financial industry to become a certified nutrition consultant and help others realize the power of food for living a healthier life.

“By making small, gradual diet changes, people can enhance their lives,” says Buttery, who now councils others through her business Nutrition by Heidi in Redwood City, Calif.

Feeling inspired, but don’t know where to begin? Buttery and Newlon shared some helpful tips to get you started, plus a recipe you can try right now!

RELATED: New Year, New You? Only If You Make It Happen

Boost anti-inflammatory foods

Some of Buttery’s favorites include: coconut oil, wild-caught salmon, spices (like turmeric, cinnamon and cloves) and dark leafy greens. For something sweeter, try fresh pineapple or cherries. According to Buttery, these foods speed up recovery, provide consistent energy and strengthen the immune system via increased blood flow.

Take a high-quality multi-vitamin and fish oil

Athletes generally have a higher requirement for minerals and vitamins than others due to stress placed upon their systems by exercise and heavy training. Even with a healthy diet, it can be hard to get an adequate intake of micronutrients due to a lack of quality topsoil in our farmlands says Buttery. Fish oil is important because it contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which help to reduce inflammation, muscle soreness and joint pain.

Reduce inflammatory oils

Avoiding industrial made oils—such as canola, vegetable, safflower, sunflower and soybean—will boost overall health and reduce muscle soreness.

Reduce dietary sugars

Sugar’s tantalizing hold and empty calories are wreaking havoc on your system. Reducing it, especially when it comes to working out, will help your body shift to burning fat, which is good for your waistline and steady energy. Cutting back on sugar also reduces inflammation and strengthens your immune system. Even when you know the benefits, it may not be easy to ditch your afternoon soda (diet sodas have the same inflammatory effect) or the candy bar fix and late night bowl of ice cream, but the longer you go without, the less you’ll crave it.

Increase consumption of healthy fats

Avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, flax, raw nuts and chia seeds have healing properties. Buttery says an added bonus is that they provide steady fuel for longer workouts.

Hydrate!

Drinking water and herbal teas throughout the day will keep your body hydrated and functioning optimally. Staying hydrated ensures your body can transport essential vitamins and minerals throughout and use them for energy.

Upgrade energy bars and drinks

Many manufacturers are incorporating real food into bars and drinks. Look for low-sugar, recognizable and pronounceable ingredients, and bars containing high-quality fats.

Season your food

Season food with sea salt, cracked black pepper, fresh herbs (never dried because, according to Newlon, they have “zero flavor and even less nutritional value”) and lemon zest/juice. Newlon, who is steadfast about seasoning, says both the fresh herbs and the lemon zest provide strong health benefits while also brightening up the flavor of any dish, ditto with salt and pepper.

“If we can stay excited about a way of eating, we are more likely to stay on track, which can only help make for a great race season,” Newlon says. “Eating clean, well-seasoned whole foods provides this.”

Try this build-to-suit, clean-eating recipe from Newlon to fuel winter workouts.

RAD’s Balsamic Roasted Seasonal Vegetables (GF/DF/NF/VEGAN)

For a yield of 4-5 servings, gather 2-3 pounds of seasonal organic vegetables. Use several different kinds and as many colors as possible to add more flavor, texture, antioxidants and micronutrients. For example, different colored carrots, squash, beets, sweet potatoes, red onion, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, etc., depending on what is in season and available.

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons sea salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flake
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, rosemary and thyme are nice) *be sure to use fresh herbs and not dried.
1 clove garlic, finely chopped

 

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. As you cut your chosen vegetables up, be mindful that they are uniform in size so that they cook evenly. Set the garlic and fresh herbs to the side.

3. Add vegetables to a large bowl. Add all other ingredients except the garlic and fresh herbs and coat evenly. Add to large sheet tray or pan. The pan should be large enough that the vegetables are arranged in one layer. If they are piled on top of each other, this will only steam and not dry roast. Steaming will create uneven cooking as well as result in mediocre flavor.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-18 minutes. Remove pan from oven and add garlic. If you add the garlic at the beginning, it is likely to burn. Stir garlic into vegetables and place pan back in oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. Vegetables should be just fork tender.

5. Remove from oven and add herbs just before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

PHOTOS: Eat Like an Athlete Healthy Cooking Class at Food Lab

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Q&A with the World’s Fastest Elvis and Globetrotter Michael Wardian

Photo: Jennifer Wardian

Michael Wardian, 42, just had maybe the most epic year of running any runner ever has. In addition to running all six World Marathon Majors in 2016—Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York—in a new record average time of 2:31:09, he also competed in a 5K while blindfolded for charity in Boston, ran 42 miles across the Grand Canyon and back in the middle of the night, turned in strong results in 100-mile runs in San Diego, New York City and Chamonix, France, spent a week running pristine trails in Cuba, and ran additional races in New Zealand, Hong Kong, France, Japan, Iceland and on the Spanish island of Menorca. Oh, and Wardian, who works full-time as an international shipping broker, won the GEICO Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon in 2:38:04, setting a new world record for the fastest marathon ever run while dressed as Elvis.

Why do you run?

Running is my passion and I think my purpose in that I love kinetically moving through the world under my own power, and seeing the world under my own terms. I run for so many reasons, some of which are freedom, power, health, exploration, sanity, obsession, accomplishment and, of course, pure joy.

What inspires you to run so many races in so many places?

I am inspired to explore the world, meet new people, experience unique cultures, places and styles of competition and see just how far I can push my limits and what I am comfortable with. Racing to me is raw and true and allows me to access places I didn’t think possible. I am fascinated by moving through foreign places under my own power to see what is around the next bend, over the next mountain, down a narrow alley or singletrack trail.

How are you able to recover so quickly between events?

I am asked about recovery a lot, and I think a fair amount of my ability to recover is due to my mindset. I am super motivated to take advantage of every opportunity, and fulfill each obligation, and that means I don’t have the luxury of extended recovery. For me, the act of moving—even light movement—is really helpful for speeding up the recovery process. I also use compression clothes, drink copious amounts of liquids, consume the highest quality food I can find, use Addaday recovery products, get massages and try to stretch and do strength training.

What was the hardest thing about running so fast in an Elvis costume?

The sunglasses bounced the entire race and by the end, after pushing them up the 200th time, I noticed a bit of pain on the bridge of my nose. I was thinking the Elvis wig would be a problem, but it was great during the race. The Elvis suit was dialed in and didn’t bother me too much.  It was hot but not crazy hot, and the crowd’s cheers more than made up for it.

RELATED: Elvis (aka Mike Wardian) Wins Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon

What’s your favorite post-run meal?

If I can get some incredible fresh fruit or a smoothie, that is pretty much heaven for me. If I have access to it, I would love to chase my fruit with an almond butter and honey sandwich on fresh bread. I am addicted to Big Spoon Roasters Almond Ginger almond butter and raw honey.

What’s on tap for 2017?

It’s going to be unbelievable! It will start with the World Marathon Challenge, which entails running marathons on seven continents in just seven days in January. In February, our family will travel to New Zealand, where I will run the Tarawera 100K. I’m definitely planning to run the Boston Marathon and Big Sur Marathon back-to-back again, and then I’ll head to Australia for the Ultra Trail Australia 100K in May. From June to August, there’s a chance I’ll run the Comrades 90K race in South Africa, the Western States 100 in California, Hardrock 100 in Colorado and the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc.

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