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She-ro's, Fairy Godrunners & Dad's Wisdom |
 Running may seem like an individual sport, but sometimes it is the love and support of others that gives us the energy to go the distance. Just ask any of the runners who ran in the ING Hartford Marathon, Half Marathon or 5k last weekend about what inspired them to finish. Many of them will have a story about a time during the race when they felt like they couldn't go another step, but then they saw an inspirational sign or heard a friend or even a stranger cheer for them and magically, they got back into their groove. For 96.5 FM's Christine Lee and many other women, it was seeing the sign that Jeanne and Maeve of lululemon made and held high at the halfway point of the half marathon that said "I've met my HERO and SHE is within me". The sign inspired Christine so much that she ran the second half of the race 12 minutes faster than the first half. An amazing feat!  For Emily Guayaba it was the Fairy Godrunners who met her at Mile 20 that gave her the lift she needed to complete the marathon. The Fairy Godrunners (her friends and "sole sisters": Debbie Dorman, Lisa Greenwood and Shirley Ma) had special shirts made for the occasion and wore wings, tiaras and carried magic wands. They ran the last 6 miles with Emily, making her laugh, giving her water and energy gel and massaging her sore calves. Normally runners hit the Wall around Mile 22. With her Fairy Godrunners by her side, Emily flew right over it. Every runner should be so lucky as to have a Fairy Godrunner (hmmmmm, this sounds like a great idea for next year - stay tuned!).
 Even my nephews got into the spirit, donning orange ING hats and sunglasses and giving high-5's to every runner who passed (OK, they were also sharing their Yankee pride). When they got a high-5 in return, they would celebrate like they just high-5'ed a celebrity. In their eyes, anyone who had the courage to toe the Start Line had to be a superstar.
I think they learned that from my dad who loves going to races to cheer. As much as he appreciates seeing the leaders and their gazelle-like stride, he really loves cheering on the middle and back-of-the-packers. Those are the people with real heart, he says. For many of them, running is not easy, but they are out there testing their personal limits and giving it their all. They are all winners. I know my dad is right because their medal is the same as the one given to the leaders which proves that every finisher is a winner. Congrats to you all! Be fit!
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review |
Brooks Beast & Ariel: For a shoe named the Beast, the 2010 edition certainly isn't a lumbering one. The new edition of Brooks' top-selling motion-control shoe (the women's version is called the Ariel) is the second shoe to gain DNA cushioning technology, resulting in a smooth, controlled ride which always has the right blend of cushion and resilience.
 DNA is a non-Newtonian fluid, meaning that it hardens and softens with each impact. Since most shoes are constructed for a runner or walker of average build and average foot-strike, they may be too soft for a heavier foot-striker, resulting in bottoming out, or to firm for a lighter runner, leading to a brick-like feel. DNA adapts to each foot, meaning that it is never too extreme a ride on either side.
 The neutral Glycerin was the first shoe to adapt DNA technology with units in the heel and forefoot. The Beast and Ariel expand this with a full-foot unit from heel to forefoot so that the entire foot is supported along its ideal strike-path. What keeps you on this ideal strike-path? The Beast and Ariel feature industry-leading medial posting for severe overpronators to ensure that your foot goes where it needs to.
The deep shoe accommodates orthotics and high-volume feet. If your foot needs a little motion control, the new Beast and Ariel provide it with more perfectly-tailored cushion than you thought possible. |
| Sarah A's Picks of the Week | |
Be Safe - Be Seen!
For anyone who runs in the evening or early morning you have already gotten a taste of not only the changing weather but you have also experienced the shortening days and sunlight hours. It's stays dark later into the morning and is getting darker much earlier in the evening so running during those times is a little trickier. The key to staying safe is to be seen and to be seen you need to be wearing something BRIGHT and noticeable. All the best in running is rolling out in neon right now. Luckily, Fleet Feet Sports loves running BRITE.
JACKETS: The jacket is the easiest way to add some color and warmth to your running gear. A defense against wind or rain, these top brand name jackets come in colors such as High-Viz Orange, Brite Green and Brooks' original "Nightlife Yellow". These vibrant colors shed light as well as precipitation and make you more visible on the roads.
 HALF ZIPS: As a comfortable middle layer or on their own, these half zips by Brooks and Saucony are the perfect pick. Unzip and ventilate as you warm up but keep most skin covered to avoid wind burn or chill later on. Also available in three colors to get you noticed. And, as an extra bonus, the Saucony half zip comes with a blinking LED light on the right sleeve.
Reflector bands: Where these on top of a regular jacket or other fall top to add reflectivity to your favorite outfit. We also have a sleeve that goes over a leash, so if you are bringing your furry friend along for a walk or jog, keep him safe too!
Vests: Throw on a vest to again brighten-up your usual running gear. The neon colors and silver reflective strips will get you noticed in dim lighting. Nathan even has a compression vest for those who don't like running with a lot of bulk.
Socks, Hats, Ear Bands and more! Add a little light where ever you choose! Slip on LED blinking lights, wear a Nightlife Ear Band lined with fuzzy fleece, or slap on some reflective stickers to make sure you run (or ride!) safe and happy this fall and winter. |
| Featured Races | |
 CT Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Run
October 17 at 10am
Tolland High School
So far this year, 124 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty. In the past 10 years, over 1,626 officers have been killed while on duty. That is one every 53 hours. Additionally, over 58,000 officers are assaulted each year.
The Connecticut Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Run is dedicated to honoring all of our law enforcement heroes. Their goal is to increase respect, raise awareness about officer safety, and ensure that each of our fallen officers is always honored and always remembered. All proceeds from the event will benefit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
Fleet Feet Sports is proud to be a supporter of this race by hosting a virtual "Couch-to-5k Training Program" for over 70 law enforcement personnel across the state of CT. We will have a tent at the race and invite all of our peeps to join us in support of those who dedicate their lives to keep us safe.
The route is a rolling 5K course through the neighborhoods around Tolland High School. There will be water stations at each mile. Each of the hills are extremely manageable and short-lived - none of them are above a 3% incline. There are also a couple nice downhill stretches that last much longer than any hills to offer runners a little chance to relax and catch their breath. After the race, participants can enjoy free food and drink from Boston's, get a free injury assessment from Select PT and join in a workout lead by Cross Fit in Manchester.
The race officially starts at 10am, but there will be a free kids run at 9:00am and the opening ceremony begins at 9:30am. Cost is $25 for the 5k and the first 250 participants will receive a race tee. Click here to register online (or you can register on race day beginning at 8am).
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Love Your Body 5k
Run/Walk
October 23 at 9am
West Hartford Reservoir
The Love Your Body 5k is one of our favorite races because they have the coolest shirts, a beautiful location (fall foliage will be peaking!) professional photographers on the course and a fun mini-festival before and after the run that offers complimentary yoga and face painting for kids (and the young at heart). It's an empowering atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of women, no matter our shape, size or speed.
Pre-registration is $20 and is available through October 15 by completing the mail-in application. Or you can register on race day for $25. Awards will be given to the Top 3 male and female finishers as well as the top male and top three females in each age division.
To learn more about the race, click the logo above.
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2nd Annual Ray Crothers Memorial
Scholarship Road Race
October 24 at 10am - CCSU Campus
Ray Crothers was a running legend and instrumental leader of the CT running community who died in February of 2008. He was a CCSU cross-country All-American and Hall of Famer during his college career and won the Manchester Road Race on four-different occasions (in three different age divisions). He was also a founding partner and owner of The Run In - one of CT's oldest and best specialty running stores where he befriended, inspired and encouraged young and old alike to love running.
The 5k run/walk is held on the CCSU campus in New Britain where Ray used to run, and all proceeds from the race go to support CCSU cross country and track scholarships. The race is hosted by the Silk City Striders, Road ID, the Willimantic Athletic Club and the New Britain Herald/Bristol Press. Trophies are awarded to the top two individuals in each age group the Top 3 men's and women's USATF Club Teams.
Cost to register is $20.00. You may register online by clicking here or by completing the paper application and mailing it to the Silk City Strider's running club. You can also register on race day.
There will also be an 800m run for kids aged 12 and under at 9:45am on race day. Cost is just $5 and all kids will receive a ribbon. |
| The Little Manchester Road Race | |
 Fleet Feet Sports is proud to partner with the Manchester Road Race Committee and Henkle to host the inaugural Little Manchester Road Race - a miniature version of the famed Manchester Road Race just for kids on Saturday, November 20 at 10:00am. The event is open to all kids aged 12 and under and will feature three separate races: � Mile, 1 Mile and 2 Miles, but everyone is encouraged to stay for all three races to cheer and give high-fives! All finishers will receive a t-shirt, race number, medal and post-race treats.
The races will start and finish at Charter Oak Park in Manchester - just 1/4 mile away from the Bennett Academy where the Manchester Road Race Packet Pick-up & Expo will be held from 8am-Noon that same day. Parking at and around Charter Oak Park and Bennett Academy is plentiful.
To pre-register, click here to download the registration form and mail it to Fleet Feet Sports (1003-B Farmington Ave, West Hartford, CT 06107) or register on race day during the Manchester Road Race Expo at Bennett Academy (1151 Main St in Manchester) from 8-9:45am. |
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Buy a Kidscard - Save 20% | |
Over the past four years, the Center Kidscard has helped raise over $70,000 for Connecticut Children's with the support of the customers of West Hartford's best stores and restaurants. This year, we want to reach new heights to support the new Clinical Care Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Connecticut Children's.
Over 75 stores (including Fleet Feet Sports) and restaurants will offer 20% off throughout West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square just in time for the holidays. Kidscard shopping days will run from October 28th through November 7th. The card is sold for $50 and 100% of the proceeds go to the Medical Center. The Kidscard provides great discounts while helping to raise money for this invaluable resource in our community.
Click here to purchase your card online at or stop by Fleet Feet Sports beginning October 21st to purchase one. Once you have the card, use it as many times as you'd like to save on jewelry, home decor, clothing, great meals and so much more throughout West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square.
Follow Kidscard on Facebook to keep up-to-date on new participants, special deals and more.
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Store Hours
Mon - Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Phone: 860-233-8077
| | Store Calendar |
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted.
Wed, Oct 13; 6:30pm
Timex GPS Global Trainer
Demo Fun Run & Walk
3-5 casual miles
Wear Reflective Gear!
Thurs, Oct 14; 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College Wed, Oct 20; 6:30pm
Brooks Nightlife
Fun Run & Walk
Illuminating gifts for everyone!
Wear Reflective Gear!
Thurs, Oct 21; 6:30pm
Mizuno Night at the Track
Fun & Prizes
at Saint Joseph College
Wed, Nov 17; 6:30-8:30pmLadies Night Out at Newington Bicycle RSVP here |
| Event Descriptions |  |
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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Wed, Oct 13; 6:30pm: Timex GPS Global Trainer Demo Fun Run: Brian from Timex will be bringing 10 of the new Timex Ironman GPS Global Trainers for runners to demo during this Wednesday's fun run. Everyone in attendance will get a gift and one lucky runner will run away with a new Timex Ironman Watch!! We'll be offering discounts on Timex watches too. Sounds like a good incentive to leave work a little early so you can make it!
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Wed, Oct 20; 6:30pm: Brooks Nightlife Run: Brooks is hosting our Fun Run this evening and will give an illuminating gift to all participants. Plus, all Brooks Nightlife gear will be 10% off. This run promises to be so bright, you might just need to wear some shades! |
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Ladies Night Out
at Newington Bicycle |  | |
Newington Bicycle is hosting a FREE Ladies Night at their store in Newington on Wednesday, November 17 from 6:30-8:30pm. The event is exclusively for women (sorry guys!) regardless of your biking ability. It will be especially informative to those of us who are trying to get back on the bike so we can complete e a triathlon next year.
Newington Bicycle will be offering free body scanning for bike sizing and will teach attendees how to change a flat bike tire. Fleet Feet Sports will do sports bra fittings and foot analysis. The Hidden Vine will be catering the event with delicious appetizers and there will also be cheese and wine tasting as well as a chocolate fondue fountain!
Representatives from Trek, Pearl Izumi, Felt, Zip, Louis Garneau, Tifosi, GU, Thule, Camelbak, Cliff, CEP, Zoot, Saris and the Fitness Continuum will also be there to demo their gear and give away great raffle prizes throughout the night. Plus, the first 50 women through the door will receive a goody bags filled with treats, samples and schwag.
Enjoy an evening out mingling with the ladies! RSVP by visiting Newington Bicycle's web site and clicking on the registration link.
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| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |  |
Join Fleet Feet staffers Duncan, Shannon & Sarah, plus 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. Meet at the store. Now that it's dark, you must wear at least one piece of reflective gear. We have some vests, bands and jackets you can borrow, but it's first-come, first-served so come a few minutes early if you need to borrow something. |
| Thursday Night Track Workout |  |
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.
Can't make it to the workout? Email Schuyler to get the Weekly Workout email. |
| We're on Facebook! |  |
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! | | FREE Injury Hotline/Email |
 1-877-MOBL-MED (1-877-662-5633) -or- 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 or email anytime to ask a licensed athletic trainer (usually my friend Eleni will answer) about your injury.
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.
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Save 40% |
Use this coupon to increase your discount to 40% off any summer apparel from our Clearance Racks, as well as all mesh running hats. There is no limit on the number of items you can purchase with this coupon - though, all sales are final and no other coupons or discounts apply.
| | Offer Expires: Sunday, October 17, 2010 |
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