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The Girl Who "CAN" |
 Last week we held a "Last Blast Lap" celebration to close out another successful season of our Zoomerang kids' running program. At the end practice, the kids ran one last lap with their team while the other teams and parents formed a huge Cheer Tunnel at the finish line. The kids just beamed as they were showered with cheers and high-fives and received their certificates.
They all felt like champions that day - a memory that will hopefully last a lifetime and give them the confidence to tackle any challenge. But for one courageous 8 year old named Sarah, it meant something more. It was a celebration of life and powerful proof that she is more than a survivor; she is a thriver!
Sarah and her younger sister Amanda (age 5) joined Zoomerangs last spring. I remember that they couldn't run one lap without stopping, and only completed two laps before they got too tired and stopped for the evening. Their mom would run with them encouraging them with each step and carrying their water bottles and sweaters in case they were thirsty or cold. I could sense that Sarah liked the safety of having her mom around.
With each subsequent practice, the girls got stronger. They could run further, faster and longer. Some days mom had a hard time keeping up. This fall, Sarah was bold enough to run ahead of her younger sister, sometimes running as many as 6 laps in a single practice. She would run confidently on her own, leaving mom in the dust.
This might not seem like much of an accomplishment until you learn Sarah's story. Four years ago to the day of our Last Blast celebration, Sarah was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The next day she underwent surgery to remove the tumor called a medulloblastoma. After surgery, Sarah suffered from post-cerebellum mutism which took away her ability to talk and walk for weeks. She also endured seven weeks of radiation followed by 9 cycles of chemotherapy. Finally, in January of 2007, Sarah completed treatment and started the long journey to recovery.
It turned out that running is wonderful therapy for Sarah, greatly improving her balance, strength and confidence. During that "last blast lap" Sarah ran her heart out. With each step, you could sense that years of pain, struggle and "can't" were being replaced with joy, happiness and "can". Sarah reminds me of the Little Engine Who Could - letting nothing, not even the lasting effects of a brain tumor, get in her way. May we all be inspired by Sarah and be thankful for the gift that we too CAN do it!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review |
 New Balance's 760-series shoes have seen a lot of changes in the past few years. The chunky but stable 765 and 766 evolved into the sleeker, lighter 767 and 768 while still maintaining stability. This past year's 769 took what had become well-refined cushioning and stability and married it to a softer, more breathable upper. Resetting the numbering scheme to 760, the newly-released version makes only a few slight changed to further improve one of our most popular stability models.
The most immediately noticeable change is the replacement of the N-Lock system with the new Lockdown Liner. While the N-Lock system consisted of two bands around the arch that the laces looped through to provide extra support, the area supported was occasionally too tight and the loops had an occasional tendency to tear open. One of the best improvements of the year, the Lockdown Liner replaces these loops with a fully separated liner that pulls snug around the entire foot in a more even manner, providing a great customized fit.
 Smaller changes include an increased amount of N-ergy supplemental cushioning in the heel and a slightly more rounded toebox than the pointier one of the 769. While the 760-series has always been a popular one, this new version definitely gives other stability shoes something to fear. If the 761 boasts similar improvements next year, it will be time for them to run and hide. At least they are well equipped for the former. |
| Now in the Store: |
I always love when I can sell local products in the store. This issue, we've got some great offerings not only created locally, but by Fleet Feet customers!  Runner's Remedy: When he's not traveling across the country training running stores, Dave Strassburg can usually be found running with us on Wednesday and Thursdays. Dave and his father are the geniuses behind the Strassburg Sock - an easy-to-use and comfortable-to-wear "sock" that is designed to heal plantar fasciitis and ease the pain of tight calves especially after a long run or road trip. If you have ever felt like there was a nail in your heel or have sharp pain with the first few steps in the morning, you should try the Strassburg Sock!  Now, Dave has created a great new line of products to help athletes with other common injuries such as shin splints, Achilles Tendonitis and arch pain. Runner's Remedy consists of compression sleeves with strategically-placed pockets designed to hold reusable ice packs so now you can R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compress and elevate) with one simple device. Each package includes multiple ice packs that are activated when wet (Dave even designed a special tray to use to activate the packs). After a trail run left my right calf strained, I took one of Dave's shin sleeves and turned it around so I could compress and chill my calf. Ahhh, relief!  Safety Straps: One of the most popular items at the Big E this fall was a safety strap from a company called Reflect and Glow in Tolland. Several of our No Boundaries and Wednesday night fun runners tested their Reflective Elastic Stretch Band last week and gave it high marks due to its ease of wear and high reflectivity. The band is one-size fits all and is perfect for runners, walkers and bikers. You can easily stash it in your glove compartment, pocket, purse or bag so you have it whenever you need it. We also brought in their Leash Reflectors which slide over your dog's leash to make it reflective. The perfect gift for your furry best friend!
 Gingerbread House Kit: OK, so this is one product you wouldn't expect to see in a running store, but it's made by Fleet Feet Peep Christine Brooks and is just too cool to not sell. Christine has created a special "Gingerbread House Party Kit" that has all the ingredients and tools you need to host a party to create 7 small gingerbread houses (so everyone can make their own house). Her cookie dough and royal icing mixes are made from all natural ingredients and her cookie cutters made from tin-plate steel right here in the USA. I bought a kit to make with my niece and nephews - though, I'm sure our houses won't be as beautiful as the Fleet Feet store and Fun Run she designed for us (click here to check out the photos on our Facebook page).  Moji: This product isn't made locally, but it is the one product we bought (out of thousands) when we went to the biggest running expo in the US. It is also an "Ice Pick" in Runner's World's "Best Of" December issue. If you have recently had knee surgery or have chronic knee pain, this wrap is a must-have. It consists of an adjustable fleece compression wrap and a special Moji cold cell that is still soft and pliable even when "frozen". Together, they articulate perfectly around your knee, giving you the freedom to move while you ice (perfect for icing at work or when you can't slow down after a workout) and a deep-down chill. My dad recently had surgery to repair a torn meniscus has been testing the product for the last week. Normally he shuns anything "fancy", but he is amazed at how good his knee feels after icing with Moji. Moji's only con is its price. At $90, it is quite expensive for an ice pack, but if you are constantly icing, it is a great investment (it has a one-year warranty). Moji also makes a wrap for those with chronic low back pain. While we currently don't carry it in the store, we will be happy to order it for you. |
| Feature Race: Blue Back Square 5k |
There's a new race in town! The Hartford Marathon Foundation has added what promises to be a great new family event right in our backyard. The Blue Back Square Mitten Run is on Sunday, December 6. There will be a ½ mile and 1 mile fun run for kids beginning at 10:15am and a 5k run/walk at 10:30am. The starting line will be near the parking garage on Isham Rd in Blue Back Square. Of course, you can always park at Fleet Feet Sports and jog over for your pre-race warm-up. The course winds through the neighborhoods of West Hartford Center allowing you to enjoy the decorations and do some window shopping. We will have a tent near the start where you can stash your stuff and stretch (OK, huddle for warmth with your Fleet Feet friends). Our newest group of No Boundaries runners will be making their debut at this race so be sure to cheer them on. Also, don't forget to bring a pair (or more) of mittens to donate to our neighbors in need. I would love to present the race directors with 100 pairs of mittens just from Fleet Feet Peeps. If you register before November 28 (Saturday), your cost is just $20 ($15 if you are a student aged 22 or younger). After November 28, the cost increases by $5. Registration includes a t-shirt, timing chip, goody bag and post race refreshements. To register online, click the race logo above.  Not running? Join the Fleet Feet Peeps Volunteer Corps! We need help on race day with the kids fun run as well as the 5k. If you can help, please email me. In return for your help, you will get a coveted Fleet Feet Sports tech tee, and I will donate a pair of mittens in your honor! It is a great way to give back to the running community and be a part of the fun! |
| Important MRR Announcements |
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It looks like there is going to be a record number of people participating in this year's Manchester Road Race - especially if the weather forecast continues to call for the rain to hold off until later in the day. If you are going, please take note of these two important announcements:
Shuttle Bus: The MRR Committee has worked very hard to revamp the shuttle system to correct the problems that occurred last year. This year, there will be 12 buses servicing Manchester Community College (park in Lot C) and 8 buses that will serve the Bolton commuter lot and a new stop at the State of CT Social Services Department. The buses will run continuously from 7:45am to 9:15am, dropping you off near the Start line and then again from 11:00am - 12:30pm to take you from the finish to your parking lot. There is no cost to use the shuttle (or park in the designated shuttle lots).
I encourage you to take advantage of the shuttles and plan on arriving early. The exits off I-384 will be closed around 9am and police will ticket and tow cars parked illegally. Trust me on this - we missed exiting by five cars last year and by the time we back-tracked to Manchester, the race had already started. Plus, we had to run 1.5 miles from our parking spot just to get to the start. It made for a stressful start to an otherwise very fun run.
Shoe Recycling: The MRR has partnered with Manchester's World Wide Lighthouse Missions Inc to collect and recycle used running shoes. There will be multiple drop-off points near the Start/Finish line including near Carter's Chevrolet (corner of Main and Charter Oak) and by the FOX 61 broadcast stand (corner of Main and Myrtle). You can also drop off your shoes Wednesday from 6-9pm at Bennett Academy (on-site registration also takes place here).
The shoes will be taken to Manchester Community College where students hope to fill an entire tent, and then sort the shoes such that gently worn shoes can be donated to the needy (well-loved shoes will be recycled). Since our next Shoe Recycling Drive won't be until next May, I encourage you to bring your shoes to the MRR and help them reach their goal! |
| Thanks to Our Generous Vendors! |
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After reading about Eddie Gorecki's death in the last newsletter, Pearl Izumi donated $500 worth of reflective and high-visibility gear so we can start a free "loaner" program at the store. They challenged other companies to do the same. Saucony and Brooks stepped up to donate some of their safety apparel, and Go Motion donated 3 of their lights.
The gear will be arriving next week - hopefully in time for our Wednesday evening fun run. Gear check-out during a Fleet Feet sponsored run will be as simple as signing-out the item and leaving your car keys (or bike) as collateral. If you wish to borrow an item for a 24-hour period, you will need to use a credit card to reserve the item. There will be no charge if you return the item.
Please take advantage of this program and be safe when you are exercising outside in the dark. |
| Indoor Track Spike Night - Dec 9 |
Track stars, mark your calendars! Our Saucony Spike Night is on Wednesday, December 9 from 7-9pm. Students will receive a 10% discount on their spikes AND trainers, snacks and a limited-edition shirt designed by staff artist and fast runner, Duncan Gerrity. Plus, the team with the highest percentage of its roster in attendance will win a season's supply of Gatorade Endurance, a pair of Saucony shoes for their head coach and a Saucony-sponsored practice with free Saucony stuff for everyone on the team hand-delivered by Todd "the Saucony Guy" Swenson.
This year we have spikes yet from five different brands, as well as a selection of jumping spikes for the first time. All of this is complemented by a huge selection of training shoes and expert staff who are trained and ready to fit you for a fast and healthy season of running.
If you can't make it to Spike Night, you can still get a 10% discount on spikes as well as the gift-with-purchase and limited-edition shirt as long as supplies last during our Spikeapalooza Event that begins on Wednesday, December 9 and runs through Saturday, December 19. You will also be counted towards your team's attendance for the contest.
Attention HS Coaches: If you would like to receive flyers about this event to pass out to your athletes, please email Schuyler. |
| Gobble This Up - Sales Start Wed! |
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Tent Sale Food Drive:
We are combining our semi-annual tent clearance sale with a food drive. All shoes, apparel and accessories under the tent is at least 50% off, but you can increase your discount by bringing a non-perishable food item. For each item, you earn an additional 1% off your entire tent sale purchase. For example, bring in 10 can goods and get an additional 10% off; 20 items = additional 20% off. Clean out your pantry and save big!
All food items will be donated to the West Hartford Food Pantry. In case of rain, we'll move the "tent" indoors.
Winter Apparel Sale:
Buy one piece of winter apparel and save $5. Buy two pieces and save $15. Buy three pieces and save $30! That's like getting a free base-layer when you purchase a top and bottom (or a third shirt so you don't have to do laundry as often)!
This offer is only valid on full-priced, in-stock merchandise only and excludes sports bras, underwear, socks, hats, gloves and gaiters. No other coupons may be used with this offer. Offer not valid on previous purchases. Sale ends Sunday, November 29, 2009.
Gift Card Bonus:
Gift cards may be the perfect gift, but they can a little "blah" to open. We've got just the thing to spice it up - and it won't cost you extra!
Our great vendors have donated lots of fun items that you can use to enhance your gift card presentation. You pick the items and we'll create a cool-looking gift box to hold it all. Or you can keep the free stuff for yourself. We won't tell!
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| More Sweet Deals |
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Now through December 30, enjoy these extra savings:
Thorlo Socks: Buy 3 Thorlo socks (including their new high-performance, super comfy Experia socks) and receive a fourth sock free (up to an $15 value!)
Moving Comfort: Purchase $50 or more in Moving Comfort sports bras and receive a free gift ($20 value).
Garmin: Purchase a Garmin 310XT (with or without at heart rate monitor) and receive a $50 rebate from Garmin, plus a $30 gift certificate from Fleet Feet Sports (gift certificate will be emailed to you within 7 days and is valid on a future purchase) and a free 30 minute training session with our electronics Guru, Sean! | |
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Store Hours
Mon - Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-4
Phone: 860-233-8077
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| Store Calendar |
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
Note: Our Usual Wednesday Fun Run & Thursday Track Workout will not be held this week due to the Thanksgiving Day Holiday.
Fri, Nov. 27; 9am
Black Friday Fun Run
Coffee & Shopping Post Run
Fri, Nov. 27; 1-3pm
Author Michelle Craemer's Kids' Book Reading & Signing
Wed, Dec. 2; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk
for all abilities
(3-5 miles)
Thurs, Dec.3; 6:30pm
Track Workout
(at St. Joseph College)
Thurs, Dec 3; 7pm
Lecture on Chronic Injuries: Cause & Treatment
(at Select Physical Therapy)
Wed, Dec. 9; 7-9pm
Indoor Track Spike Night
Food, Fun & Freebies
Sun, Dec 13; 8-11am
NOTE: New Time
Coach Al Lyman's
"Run Easier, Run Faster" Clinic
Cost is $75
Mon, Dec 21; 7pm
Note: New Date
Experienced Marathon Training Program Information Night |
| Event Descriptions |
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For more events at the store and around CT, visit our online Calendar. For details on any event, call the store at 860-233-8077.
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Fri. Nov 27; 1-3pm: Book Reading & Signing. Join author Michelle Craemer as she reads her award-winning children's book, Pellie Runs a Marathon. After the reading, meet Michelle and have her sign one of her books (makes a great holiday gift for kids of all ages).
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Sun. Dec 13, 8-11am (NOTE: NEW TIME): "Run Faster, Run Easier" Workshop with Coach Al Lyman: Coach Al is back! Join expert running and multisport coach Al Lyman as he offers another edition of his hugely popular "Run Faster, Run Easier" 3-hour running workshop at Fleet Feet Sports. During the workshop, Coach Al will video everyone's running form and provide you with an in-depth gait analysis within 10 days of the workshop. He will also provide valuable information on how to approach daily training especially as it relates to what is happening through your legs and core. Key core strength and flexibility exercises will be demonstrated so come dressed to workout! Cost for the workshop is $75.00 or $99.95 for the workshop plus a copy of Coach Al's Runner-Core DVD (regularly $39.99). For more information on the clinic or to register, click here.
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Mon. Dec 21, 7pm: (NOTE: NEW DATE + Program is open to anyone who can run a sub 4:30 Marathon) Marathon Training Program Info Night: Are you planning a SPRING marathon and looking for a group training program that will help you get to the starting line in your best shape ever as well as provide you with expert coaching guidance, group runs, free seminars, and a highly detailed 15-week training plan outlining every training session and detail you will need for success?
If so, problem solved! Fleet Feet Sports is teaming with Coach Al Lyman to offer a Spring Marathon Training Program.
This 15-week program is designed for runners who are preparing for a spring marathon. The timing of the program coincides with Boston, although you could easily be preparing for another spring marathon, modifying the program schedule to suit your own scheduling needs (with advice from Coach Al). The program will be based out of Fleet Feet Sports, but group runs and workouts will be hosted in various locations throughout Hartford (and possibly a field trip to Boston to run part of the course).
The program officially begins on Sunday, January 3. Cost is $250 and includes a customized 15-week training program written by Coach Al, a copy of Coach Al's Runner Core DVD and an audio CD, weekly group long runs and track sessions, seminars and more.
For more details or to sign-up, email Coach Al or click here. |
| Chronic Injury Lecture |
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Select Physical Therapy is hosting a lecture on chronic injuries at their West Hartford office (29 North Main St) on Thursday, December 3 at 7pm. If you have been experiencing a nagging injury or pain that doesn't heal with basic treatment, you may find this lecture by Michael DiStefano very interesting.
DiStefano is a Board Certified athletic trainer and corrective exercise specialist and has treated clients of all ages and abilities ranging from the weekend warrior to world class tri-athletes. Chronic overuse injuries are commonplace in any physically active population. Athletes often use medications to cover up their pain, try various forms of therapy to treat their pain, and take time off hoping their pain goes away. While these treatment plans may work individually and in conjunction with one another, the best way to alleviate the pain is to treat the cause of the pain. Chronic pain may be a result of: 1) muscle imbalances 2) flawed movement technique 3) altered muscle usage This lecture will expand upon the causes and treatments of chronic pain. Specific examples of how muscle imbalances, flawed movement technique, and altered muscle usage lead to overuse injuries will be discussed. There will be a demonstration of the evaluation process and the exercises used to correct the cause of pain. Please email you RSVP to Stacy Ciarleglio. |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |
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Join Fleet Feet staffer Duncan and a great group of Fleet Feet Friends for a casual fun run each Wedensday night at 6:30pm. We go between 1-5 miles (a route for all abilities). All paces (including walkers) are welcome to join us.
It's a great way to meet new friends and running partners. Since it's dark at 6:30pm now, please be sure to wear reflective vests or other gear so you stay safe!
Meet at the store. Please bring a light and/or other reflective gear or come early to sign-out one of our free loaner pieces.
Be Safe. Be seen! |
| The NUUN Track Workout - Thursday at 6:30pm |
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Do you feel the need for speed? Or maybe your workout routine needs a little spice. Join Coach Schuyler each Thursday for a fun track workout.
These workouts are designed for runners of ALL abilities. The goal is to introduce you to different types of running (intervals, hills, tempo runs) and help you get stronger and faster. This is your opportunity to get professional coaching for free - and meet some great fellow runners.
Nuun is now the official sponsor of our Thursday Night Track Workout! While the track workouts will remain as fun and challenging as ever, they will be made more refreshing with Nuun - a sugar-free electrolyte drink that will keep you hydrated as you run your laps around the track.
In addition to a selection of tasty Nuun at all the workouts, all runners attending five or more will receive a free Nuun water bottle!
Attend any 5 Wednesday Fun Runs or Thursday Track Workouts and get a free drifit "Fleet Feet Sports" t-shirt. Bring a photo of you wearing your shirt in a race and earn $10 off your next shoe purchase. |
| FREE Injury Advice & Assessments |
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Our friends at Select Physical Therapy have set-up a FREE injury hotline to answer your questions about prevention and treatment of common athletic injuries or conditions. You can call anytime to speak with a licensed athletic trainer (usually my friend Eleni) or leave a detailed message and Eleni will return your call.
Depending on the severity of your injury, you may be given instructions on how to care for your injury at home or be directed to one of Select Physical Therapy's 30 clinics in CT for a free evaluation.
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877 662 5633) |
| We're on Facebook! |
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Become a "fan" of Fleet Feet Sports Hartford and be the first to know about new events, participate in interesting discussions and view great photos of our Fleet Feet Peeps in action.
Check out our page by clicking here. |
| Return Policy |
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We believe in the PERFECT FIT - it's part of our Fitlosophy. If you are not 100% satisfied with the fit of your shoes, socks, sports bra, insoles, etc, we invite you to bring the item back within 30 days of purchase. Even if you wore the item outside.
Give us an opportunity to find a better solution for you. We want to help you get the proper tools to live fit! | |
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