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Proper Perspective |
 This past weekend I ran with a friend at the Reservoir in West Hartford. After a four months hiatus from running due to injury, it was good to be on the trails again, but it was slow going. In fact, I kept having to stop to catch my breath and walked up several hills that I used to be able to run.
At one point, I let out a frustrated yawp. In response, my friend asked "Remember why we are doing this?" I snapped back, "I don't know; remind me." She said, "It starts with an 'F'".
I thought about it and said "Foliage" because the trees were gorgeous. They looked like they were bursting into flames of red, yellow and orange right in front of us and the trail looked like a carpet made of leaves. She said "Nope".
I countered with "Food" because we typically go out for breakfast after our runs (the tougher the run, the tastier the breakfast) and because my love of chocolate dictates my necessity to run or suffer the consequences. She said "Nope".
After some serious thought, I proudly said "Foundation" since we both want to run a marathon in the spring, but to do that we need to build a good foundation of miles before we officially start training. She said "Nope".
At that point I gave up. I couldn't think of any other reasons for being out there that began with the letter 'F'. To that, she replied "Fun".
A light bulb went on in my head. Why was I so worried about my performance on that run? I wasn't training for anything or trying for a personal best on that course. I was out there to enjoy the sport I love. To soak up the sun and take in the beautiful fall colors. To spend time with a friend instead of my laptop. To sweat a little and burn enough calories to justify the apple cider doughnuts waiting for us at the end.
How many times over the past few months had I longed to feel those run-induced endorphins again and swore that I wouldn't push myself too hard when I got back to it? That I would enjoy running for the sake of running? Oh, how quick I am to forget!
Chances are you are probably like me too. Good thing we have friends to remind us to keep things in perspective. So the next time you go out for a run or walk, I challenge you to leave your watch at home, grab a friend, slow down a bit and enjoy living fit. You won't regret it.
Be fit!
Steph |
| Schuyler's Shoe Review |
Superfeet's Wooly White: For most of us, our running shoes provide support and cushioning, but they are not necessarily what we want to wear around the house or to school all winter. As much as it pains a running geek like me to admit it, stability and a proper running shoe fit are not always synonymous with warmth, coziness and fashion. Into this bunion-and-plantar-fasciitis addled fray between function and fashion comes the Wooly White Superfeet insole.
Instead of a fabric top-cover like those used on other insoles in the Superfeet line, the Wooly White uses 90% Merino wool. Just like in the wool socks and apparel that the Fleet Feet Sports staff love, Merino feels soft against the skin, regulates temperature in cold or hot weather, and is naturally anti-microbial to prevent odors.
 These features make Wooly White an ideal insole for footwear that is worn without a sock: namely, bedroom slippers, furry moccasins, Ugg-like boots - even Chuck Taylors! Sufferers of plantar fasciitis will want to put the Wooly White Superfeet in their bedroom slippers in order to have support for morning pain or to wear around the house without sacrificing cozy comfort. Unsupportive boots can be made supportive and still keep your toes toasty through the winter months.
Until early 2011, the Wooly White Superfeet is a limited edition product. We were only able to get 48 pairs. We expect them to go fast so grab your dimensionless boots and pick-up a pair before they are gone. |
| Sarah A's Picks of the Week | |
 Adidas Supernova-licious Outfit: One of my favorite outfits in the store right now is this ½ zip and ¾ tight combo. Adidas got this Supernova top right with the rich purple color, soft fabric and stylish mock collar and asymmetrical ½ zip. But there is more to this piece than simply good looks. When fully zipped, the soft collar covers your mouth and nose so you stay warm when the temperature drops and the wind blows. The ¾ tight features a back zip pocket big enough for your gels and music player along with a lower back mesh insert for better ventilation and reflective piping for low-light safety.
 CW-X Revolution Tight for Men and Women: The latest and greatest in CW-X compression tight technology has arrived! Using a special process that actually burns away excess material, CW-X is able to retain their targeted web support system that mimics kineso taping, but in a way that is seam-free, lighter and more comfortable. This new EXO-Lite Seamless Support Web helps leg muscles and ligaments band together to stabilize the knee joint, reducing stress and impact on the knees during walking, running and exercise. The upper banding of the tight also supports the lower ab muscles, hips and back to add stability to your core; strengthening your body and allowing you to have a better run.
 "Hartford 2010" Finishers Tee's: Run Hartford this year? Whether you ran the 5k, half marathon or the full, commemorate your accomplishment with this unique that features an elegant Phoenix on the front and a Hartford 2010 tag on the sleeve. Even better, these high quality tech tees are just $20!
 Running Bling: While you might not be allowed to wear your race tee and tights to work, you can show of your devotion and love of running with these adorable necklaces by local jewelry designer, AnnMarie. Necklaces come with either a sterling silver chain or beaded band (including beautiful glass beads) and feature different charms including a Runner silhouette, 13.1 &, 26.2 designs. The perfect gift for any Runner Girl!
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Featured Race: Jamie's Run | |
Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to help Build a Cure for children's cancer. The inaugural running of Jamie's Run, the JK 5K, will take place on Sunday, Nov. 7 in Old Wethersfield, CT. The 5K run, 3K walk, and 1K kid's fun run aim to raise money to support the construction of the new Clinical Care Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Connecticut Children's Medical Center. The event is an official race with a certified course and is a Manchester Road Race qualifier. Professional, amateur, and all levels of runners and walkers and invited to participate.
Race founders Kurt and Kelly Knotts of Vernon, CT lost their 5 ½ month-old daughter Jamie to a rare liver tumor in January. To honor Jamie's memory and to recognize the exceptional care she received at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, the couple has established the JK 5K to help fund the construction of the state-of-the-art Clinical Care Center at Connecticut Children's. The hospital has outgrown its space and needs an improved facility to provide children and their families with the best possible care and treatment.
Kurt Knotts commented, "When you go to the Children's Hospital and find out your 11 week old baby has cancer, it doesn't matter who you are or what you have. You are stripped of everything. You are at the mercy of the people who are taking care of you and the staff at Connecticut Children's is the most amazing group of people you'll meet." Knotts added, "They do an amazing job with what they have, but I can imagine what they could do with what they really need. They just need our help to make the caring and curing experience better for other children and families like ours. We hope Jamie's Run will bring them closer to their goal."
Jamie's Run will follow a picturesque course that starts and ends at Cove Park. The course runs through the quaint village of Old Wethersfield, passing historic homes, churches, and businesses. The kids 1k starts at 11:00am with the 5K race and 3K walk beginning around 11:10am (once the kids run is finished. Families can enjoy a post race celebration with refreshments, kid's activities, and music by Imagination Station.
For information about Jamie's Run and to register for the race, click the logo above. For more information about the hospital and its building campaign, click here. |
| 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: ½ 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. We will be raffling off one KidsCard during our KidsCard Halloween Fun Run this Wednesday at 6:30pm. Plus, everyone who purchases a KidsCard that evening will receive a free Fleet Feet tech tee.
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| Mizuno "Predict the Snow" Contest |  I went for a hike last week in Vermont and was treated to my first snowflakes of the season. Snow in CT can't be far behind which means it's time to kick-off this year's edition of our famous "Predict the Snow, Win Mizuno Breath Thermo" contest!
To participate, email me your best prediction of when Fleet Feet Sports West Hartford will receive its first inch of snow - month, day, hour and minute (example, December 2 at 4:13pm) in the Subject line of your email. Snow depth will be determined with my state-of-the-art snow gauge (aka ruler) on my special 2'x2' "snowboard" so we're official.
If you are curious, our first inch in 2008 was on December 7 and in 2009, it was on December 9. Will Mother Nature continue the trend of an early December snowfall or will she mix things up this year?
Just like the Price is Right, the winner will be the person with the closest time without going over (e.g. if you predicted 8:59pm, you can't win if the time is past 9:00pm). The winner will receive a Mizuno Breath Thermo top to keep you warm and toasty during your winter adventures. The contest is free and open to anyone but you only get one prediction so make it a good one!
Predictions are due by Midnight on Tuesday, November 2.
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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 27; 6:30pm
KidsCard Halloween Fun Run
3-5 casual miles
Prizes for the best costumes
Wear Reflective Gear!
Thurs, Oct 28; 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College Sun, Oct 31; Noon Barefoot 2-Mile Trot
Downtown
Wed, Nov 3; 6:30pm
Fun Run & Walk 3-5 Casual Miles
Wear Reflective Gear!
Thurs, Nov 4; 6:30pm
Track Workout
at Saint Joseph College
Sat, Nov 13; 9-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
by Select Physical Therapy
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. ******* 
Wed, Oct 27 6:30pm: KidsCard Halloween Fun Run: Don you best "runnable" costume and join us for our annual Halloween Costume Contest and Fun Run. Mizuno gear will be awarded to those with the best costumes so be creative. Like last year, the fun run will include a spooky loop through the cemetery. Remember to wear something bright and reflective - Go Motion lights and headlamps are recommended as well so you can see where your step (and so cars can see you).
Also, we will celebrate the kick-off of this year's KidsCard Campaign by raffling off one KidsCard after the run. Plus, everyone who purchases a KidsCard on Wednesday night gets a free Fleet Feet tech tee. Cards cost $50 and give you 20% off at over 70 stores throughout West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square from Oct 28 - Nov 7.
*******
Sun, Oct 31; Noon: Barefoot Two-Mile Trot: The Underground Runners Syndicate is proud to announce their first event in Hartford: the Barefoot Two-Mile Trot in downtown Hartford (meet at 1 Constitution Plaza). The course will wind its way westward through downtown to an unknown location (the suspense is in honor of Halloween). The run will not be timed.
URS is partnering with Soles4Souls and will donate all race proceeds to them. There will also be a shoe drive to collect gently used shoes for Soles4Souls who will distribute them to the shoeless throughout the world.
The event is open to everyone, not just barefooters or minimalist runners. Click here to register online or register on-site on event day beginning at 11am. Registration is $30. For more information, click the logo above. The event is capped at 100 participants and you need not go barefoot. |
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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 50% |
Use this coupon to increase your discount to 50% 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 31, 2010 |
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