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August
21-27
is Tax Free Week! |
During this week, all sneakers (except XC spikes) and apparel under $300 are not subject to sales tax!
Don't forget that Fleet Feet carries shoes (and inserts) for kids from preschool through grade school (size 10-7). Let our Fit Experts measure your children's feet and put them in a shoe that is right for their needs. | |
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 I once heard that who you are at 40 years old is a reflection of the kind of person you'll be for the rest of your life. If that is true, then 96.5TIC's Christine Lee and I are in for an adventurous and laugh-infused second half of our lives.
Earlier this year, Christine and I decided that we needed to celebrate our 40th birthdays by doing something a bit crazy to show Father Time that he wasn't in charge. I suggested skydiving, but she had already done that. Bungee jumping was a bit too extreme. Then, we heard about the Warrior Dash: a "mud-crawling, fire-leaping, extreme run". The perfect celebration for us since it was our love of running that cemented our friendship.
Our dash was this past weekend in Windham, NY. And it was a blast! Cannons of fire heralded the start as we "ran" straight up the ski slope on Windham Mountain (at least we were breathing as hard as if we were running). Halfway up the slope we encountered our first two obstacles which required jumping over walls and junk cars, crawling under barbed wire and hopping through tires. Piece of cake.
Up the mountain we continued calves and lungs burning, sweat pouring down our faces. The laughter and jokes from fellow racers ceased; all you could hear was the sound of huffing and puffing and the faint sound of whoops and hollers in the distance. Those sounds turned into a roar as we passed the first mile mark and approached Obstacle #3 - a huge pit of waist deep mud and water with logs that you had to climb over or swim under. Christine and I looked at each other, realizing that we had a choice. We could be old and responsible and detour the challenge or be young and fun and tackle the challenge head-on.
Without hesitation, we jumped in and dove over those logs like pros, showing the younger generation of racers around us how it's done. That's when I realized that life in my 40's and beyond is going to be host to some of the best times of my life. I'm old enough to have learned from my mistakes, but still young enough to try new things, be adventurous and chart new directions in life. Like the quote goes, I'm not 40. I'm eighteen with 22 years of experience!
Christine and I emerged from the mud-pit refreshed and invigorated. The remaining 9 obstacles featured various combinations of ropes, walls, planks, barbed wire, pools of mud, rows of fire that required leaping and a long steep downhill to the finish. I don't think I've ever laughed so much during a race. I even thought about turning around before I crossed the finish so I could do it again. Christine captured some of the fun in her video.
As Charles Schultz of Peanuts fame said, One you're over the hill, you begin to pick-up speed." No matter how old you are, you are never too old to have fun. And remember, the fitter and healthier you are, the longer you can have fun!
Be Fit,
Steph |
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Schuyler's Shoe Review |
 Ready to hit the trails this fall? Do so with confidence, grip and comfort in the new Montrail Rockridge. This trail shoe can hold up to groomed paths or rugged single-track, blistering trail runs or light hikes with the dog.
Falling in between hardcore trail shoes that seem clunky on road and glorified road shoes that only feature trail colors, the Rockridge is a go-anywhere, do-anything shoe. This amazing versatility comes from a combination of fit, technology and comfort. The outsole is built from Montrail's patented Gryptonite rubber. This rubber grips on wet rocks, mud, muck and grass. Unlike many trail outsoles, it still has excellent durability on roads.
 Beneath the outsole is a rock-stop plate to prevent pain to your metatarsals. Nice soft EVA foam makes for excellent cushion
whether you are on nasty gravel or a road-run between trails. The midsole cradles up around the base of the heel, ensuring that no matter where the trail throws your foot, you'll stay vertical.
Around your foot, the Integrafit upper boats a snug midfoot and heel with a nice roomy forefoot. The upper material is abrasion-resistant enough to keep the shoe from tearing when confronted with sharp rocks and sticks. Not that you want to protect them from mud, however. Getting them muddy is the point. |
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Amy's Gear Corner | |
 Soft Tread Socks: This new sock from Balega is amazing! Steph took them for a run in worn-out trail shoes and felt like she was running in brand new shoes - they were that cushy!
The secret is a new yarn that literally puts more bounce in your step. The right and left-specific socks have extreme vibration dampening powers and abrasion resistance to protect your feet in high impact areas as well as Balega's Drynamix moisture management fibers and unique evaporation system to keep your feet cool and dry. Ahhhh!
Come to our Soft Tread Launch party on Saturday, August 27 and take advantage of a special Buy 3, Get 1 Free offer!
 Nathan Trail Mix Hydration Belt: This evolved hydration belt is a result of collecting feedback and responding with a merged creation, combining traits from the HPL, Elite and Speed series; simply, it is awesome for both training and races. The molded holsters are perfect for quick, one-handed flask accessibility. The two 10oz nutrition flasks are just the right size for your athletic endeavors. There is a large pocket as well as a mesh pocket for small essentials. Even though this belt has many features, it isn't bulky; the airmesh moisture wicking backing keeps you cool and dry, while the titanium belt is light and sturdy, dissipating heat and reducing chafing. There even is two shock cords with a one-pull tension lock for gloves or a jacket. This belt fits 26" to 42" waists. Come check it out!
Bring in your old hydration belt and receive 20% off a Nathan Trail Mix belt!
 Hammer Recoverite: Many athletes fail to recognize the importance of recovery-it is a crucial part of training, allowing one to train and perform better. One of the biggest components of recovery is using a recovery drink post workout. Hammer's Recoverite is a glutamine fortified drink, that helps minimize post-exercise muscles soreness, rebuild muscle tissue and restore muscle glycogen. This product is made with natural ingredients, is gluten-free, contains no MSG and is Kosher Dairy Certified. We have single serve packets in the following flavors: citrus and chocolate and we now have Recoverite in bulk, in strawberry and citrus flavors. Just like how this product sounds, recover right-give your body what it needs.
 GoMotion LIghts:
This super-lightweight, mesh vest with a 1-Watt LED is awesome for after-hours street running and for other activities in low light conditions. The adjustable mesh vest has padded straps and the 1-Watt LED is at chest level, providing visibility and comfort-just what you need for your next outing or adventure! The shoulder straps have chafe guard and the sternum strap slides, again providing comfort and a customized fit. Some additional features include: 3-level beam intensity, flood to spotlight beam control, adjustable beam angle, two flashing red LED tail-lights, 3 AA Energizer batteries, low battery signal, breathable cool-mesh padding and reflective trim. There even is a cell phone pocket! These will go fast!
This 3 Watt Waist Light Kit attaches to existing waist packs and hydration belts. So, if you just need a light for another waist hydration pack, this is a fantastic option. It proves to be a clever solution for people who want comfort and lighting around their waist. The two piece design makes it so our pack has light at all times and makes it a taking the pack on and off a simple process.
If you prefer a stand-alone waist-level LED running belt, the SportRunner Belt is a lightweight solution, providing breathable mesh details. This belt has 1-Watt LED with the same CoreBeam functions as the LiteVest. It also includes two storage pockets and three brightness levels. This high performing running belt will make you visible, while allowing you to see clearly. |
| Kids Running Program - Registeration Open |  If your kids like to run, we've got a fun program just for them: Zoomerangs!
Now in our 7th season, this non-competitive "open track" program is designed for kids aged 4-13. It gives them the opportunity to experience running in a fun, friendly atmosphere where the motto is "Will run for worms" (gummy worms, that is!).
It's a great place for kids to run safely, correctly using good form, make friends and get stronger/build endurance so they can perform better in other sports (or rock the mile in gym class). Most of all, our goal is to empower kids to accomplish their goals and instill in them a lifelong love of running. It's also a great opportunity for mom and dad to spend quality time with your kids - and get in shape too!
The fall edition of our popular program begins on Sunday, September 25 at 4:30pm. All practices take place at the Saint Joseph College Track and last about 45 minutes. After a group warm-up (stretches, form drills and running games), kids will be encouraged to run at their own pace and run as many laps as they feel comfortable running. Our goal is to have kids run/walk 4 laps (1 mile) each practice - though, by the end of the season many kids are running 2-4 miles - and still smiling at the end!
The program will culminate with the Little Manchester Road Race On Saturday, November 19 in Manchester, CT. This race features a 1/2 mile, 1 mile and 2 mile course.
The program cost is $50 per child and includes a Zoomerang Team t-shirt, Little Manchester Road Race entry and sweathshirt, gummy-worms, "lap rewards" and "Track or Treat" (a special Halloween celebration that includes trick-or-treating around the track for healthy snacks and fun loot).
Register in-store by bringing in this completed form - or registering online here. Questions? Email Coach Sean. |
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Featured Race: Kids Triathlon |
If your kids have spent their summer swimming, biking and running, consider entering them in this kids-only triathlon on Saturday, August 27 at 9:30am (rain date is September 3) at Bicentennial Pond and Mansfield Middle School in Mansfield, CT.
This USA Triathlon sanctioned triathlon is open to kids aged 4-14 and will feature four separate races with distances appropriate for each age group. There will be an official race clock, finisher medal, t-shirts and goodie bag!
Register online before August 24 and pay $15 (plus $5 for a one-day USAT membership) or register from 8-9am on the day of the event for $20 (plus $5 USAT fee).
To learn more or to volunteer click here. |
| Disney Marathon Training - Starts in October | |
 Ever thought of running through Disney World? Read on because this might be the opportunity for you! We are teaming with Run Disney to offer a marathon training program to help train you to complete the Disney Marathon on Sunday, January 8.
 Fleet Feet staffer Deb Stroiney and her husband Dave Cilley will be coaching this program. Deb and Dave have run the Disney Marathon the past 2 years - with Deb conquering the Goofy Challenge this past January! Whether you are a first time marathoner or looking to PR, Dave and Deb can help you on your way.
The training program will start in October. Participants should be able to complete a long run of 11 miles before the first practice (Deb & Dave can create a training program to get you to 11 miles this summer). Program cost is $100 and includes your training program, coached long runs, mid-week speed workout, a cool tech team shirt, product samples, as well as Run Disney perks (discounted race entry fee and park tickets).
If you are running Disney and training on your own, you can join our group virtually for free and take advantage of special Run Disney Perks like discounted race entry fee and park tickets.
Contact Coach Deb for more details. |
| Race Numbers Needed | |
 We hope to wallpaper a wall in our new expanded space with race numbers/bibs signed and donated by peeps like you. If you would like to be forever immortalized in our store, find one of your race numbers,
autograph it (feel free to add your time or short note on it) and bring it into the store. Bibs are non-returnable - but you can come visit it anytime! |
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Food Focus: Sweet Potatoes
By Aubrey Schulz | |
 Looking for a quick, easy way to add more nutrition to your plate? Reach for sweet potatoes. Inside sweet potatoes are many antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Despite its sweet taste, it contains nutrients that help regulate blood sugar. A small sweet potato contains about 100 calories, 22 grams of carbs and 3 grams of fiber. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of energy for runners.
Here is a recipe for Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans that will be useful to add to your "What do I eat tonight?" repertoire.
Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans
Ingredients:
1 sweet potato, cut into �" inch slices
� cup black beans, rinsed
4 scallions, sliced, white and some green parts
1 Tablespoon olive oil*
1 lime, juiced
1 tsp cumin
� tsp salt
Directions:
- Cook the sweet potatoes in a steamer basket on the stove for seven minutes (or microwave it).
- Combine the remaining ingredients together in a bowl.
- Serve the bean mixture on top of the sweet potato.
*Don't skip the oil. The fat in the olive oil enhances the uptake of the nutrient beta-carotene.
---------------------------------- Aubrey Schulz is a certified nutrition and triathlon coach with Get Out N Play . Aubrey works with clients to help them reach their nutritional and athletic goals, both in the kitchen and out on the road. |
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STORE HOURS
Mon-Thurs: 10-7
Fri: 10-6
Sat: 10-5:30
Sun: 12-5
Phone: 860-233-8077
www.fleetfeethartford.com | |
EVENT CALENDAR
All events are at Fleet Feet Sports unless otherwise noted. | |
Wed, Aug 17 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Aug 17 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Thurs, Aug 18 @ 6:30pm
Asics Night at the Track
Fun Workout + Freebies!
Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, Aug 20 @ 9:30-11am
FREE Injury Assessments
by Select Physical Therapy
Sat, Aug 20 @ 7am
Informal Marathon Training Group Run - 15 miles
Pace range: 8-12min/mile
Sat, Aug 20 @ 8am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Mon, Aug22 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Mon, Aug 22 @ 6:30pm
BRINK at the Wood n'Tap
in Farmington
Wed, Aug 24 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Aug 24 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Sat, Aug 27 - all day
Balega "Soft Tread Sock
Launch Party"
Buy 3, get 1 free special
Sat, Aug 27 @ 7am
Informal Marathon Training Group Run - 14 miles
Pace range: 8-12min/mile
Sat, Aug 27 @ 8am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Sun, Aug 28 @ 3-6pm
XC Spike Spectacular & BBQ
Food, Fun & Freebies
Discounts & Team Competition |
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FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, Aug 20 - 9:30-11am | |
Injured? Don't know whether you can run/play sports or if you should really see a doctor? Come to our free injury assessment clinic staffed by a certified athletic trainer from Select Physical Therapy. No appointment is necessary.
These free clinics will be offered every other Saturday. Next in-store clinic will be Sat, Sept 3.
Can't make the clinic? Call or email Stacy at Select's FREE Injury Hotline:
1-877-MOBL-MED
(1-877-662-5633)
Stacy is a a licensed athletic trainer and Select PT's Director of Sports Medicine. Depending on the severity of your injury, she may give you instructions on how to care for your injury at home or direct you to one of Select Physical Therapy's 30 clinics in CT for a free evaluation. | |
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BRINK - Wood N'Tap
Mon, Aug 22 @ 6:30pm Farmington, CT |  |
Grab a friend, your kids or colleagues and join us for our another BRINK (Bike, Run, drINK) - this time we'll hit the Rail Trail in Farmington (nice and flat!).
We will meet at 6:30pm at the Wood N'Tap in Farmington and hit the rail trail by foot or bike for 30-45min of fun. Then, we'll head back to the restuarant for a scrumptious all-you-can-eat buffet and drinks at special prices.
The BRINK is on rain or shine - RSVP here if you think you might come so Wood N'Tap knows how much food to make. |
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XC Spike Spectacular & Barbeque
Sun, Aug 28 - 3-6pm
Sponsored by Saucony |  | |
If you don't think there is anything more exciting than the start of XC season (the mud, the mile markers, your sweat, the hills!), then mark your calendar for Fleet Feet's XC Spike Spectacular!
Bring your team, wear your school's colors, and join us at 3pm when we will celebrate running dirty with a 3 mile fun run followed by a Team Flag design competition (we'll provide the flags and markers/paint) and a yummy (and free) barbeque.
Then, from 4-6pm we will open the store exclusively for XC runners. All spikes and trainers will be 10% off, plus you will get a gift-with-purchase AND the first 150 kids will get a t-shirt with a kickin' design by Duncan.
We will also be hosting our famous participation contest which awards a season's supply of Gatorade to the team that has the highest percentage of runners in attendance.
Can't make our XC Spike Spectacular? We'll be offering a 10% discount on spikes and trainers plus a gift-with-purchase for all XC runners during the week of August 28 through September 5. Just tell us which school you are run for when you check out.
Attention HS XC Coaches: Email Schuyler your mailing address to receive a packet of Spike Week flyers and coupons to pass out to your runners along with details on how to get free shoes for your financially disadvantaged athletes. |
| Wed Night Fun Runs
6:30pm (at the store) |  |
Join Duncan & 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.
Note: Fun Runs are canceled during snow and thunder storms and when roads/sidewalks are too icy and dangerous. Check our Facebook page on Wednesday's for status of run.
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| Thursday Night Track Workout |  |
Track Workouts are Back!
Join us every Thursday - 6:30pm at Saint Joseph College Track. Please park in the upper parking lot (NOT the O'Connell Gym lot or we risk losing our permit to use the track).
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 subscribe to his Weekly Workout email. 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. |
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Informal/FREE Marathon Training Support Group
Sat or Sun @ 7am |  |
Are you training for a fall marathon like Hartford, Chicago or Niagara Falls and looking for training partners? Join this FREE group led by the Sole Sisters - a group of amazing women who met while training for their first 5k in Fleet Feet's No Boundaries Program in January of 2009. Since then, they have gone the distance at the VT City Marathon, completed a triathlon and the Bermuda Challenge (where, on the flight home, the Race Director for the Niagara Falls Marathon invited them to run). They believe in having fun on the run...and off the run too! This weekend the training plan calls for 9 miles (next weekend, they'll do 12 miles). Paces range from 8-12 min/mile with some runners utilizing run/walk intervals. Women AND Men are welcome to join in the fun! There will be a group leader with copies of the routes on both Saturday and Sunday at 7am so choose the morning that works best for you. Meet in front of the store and make sure to bring your hydration belt or bottle! |
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Run/Walk Meet-Up Group: Every Saturday at 8am |  |
Every Saturday we will open our doors at 8am to runners and walkers looking to meet-up with others. We will have a place to hold your keys and change of clothes, as well as provide a bathroom, water and a book of routes ranging from 1-18 miles for you to select from. Our goal is to help match people of similar paces and training distances so no one has to run alone.
There is no charge to participate in the Meet-Up. If you already have a group of friends you run with, you can still take advantage of using Fleet Feet Sports as your meeting location from anytime between 8-10am.
For more information, check our official "Meet-Up" group web site. |
| 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 |  |
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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