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A Rockin' Saucony Weekend Sept 17 & 18 |
Purchase $50+ in Saucony shoes or apparel and receive a FREE pair of Saucony Powerknit LT Arm Warmers in white, blue or lime green! | |
Promotion not valid on previous purchases. Valid while supplies last. |
Svelte Tigers & Droopy Muffins | |
 It started out innocuously enough. A friend suggested we sneak away to VT for a day of trail running in the hopes of catching early fall foliage, kick-start our fall training and work up an appetite to enjoy a campfire dinner complete with gooey s'mores and a pumpkin ale.
Not one for choosing flat loops around beautiful lakes, my friend discovered a 300 acre park in Rutland that features 16 miles of singletrack trails composed of forests, marshes, meadows, rocky cliffs and mountain peaks - a mountain biker and trail runner's mecca. As soon as we arrived, we felt like kids in a candy store as we looked at the huge map of trails with cool sounding names. Our goal was to tackle as many trails as possible so we laid out a course that wound its way through all corners of the park.
We figured it only appropriate to begin our adventure on a trail called Escalator. True to its name, it went straight up. Hearts pounding and legs and lungs burning, we continued onto Svelte Tiger (my favorite trail name) and upwards to an awesome view of the Rutland valley. We continued our way over unique wooden bridges including a triple-banked "Centrifuge Bridge" and a 100ft suspension bridge that bounced us several feet in the air as if we were having a "jump war" on a trampoline. That was the first time I've ever experienced some serious hang-time while running.
Onward over the Lichen Rock to another overlook and onto Stegosaurus - a really fun trail comprised of roller coaster hills that made you feel like you were running up and over the spikes of the namesake's dino's back. As we ran each trail, I tried to figure out how it got its name. Sometimes I had to get a bit creative as in the case of Droopy Muffin ("run it enough and your muffin-top will begin to droop and disappear").
By the time we reached "Catacomb", I should have been smart enough to figure out that we should have avoided that trail altogether. It started out high on a beautiful mountain meadow and descended steep and deep into a heavily wooded forest and dead-ended at a cemetery. The only way out was to climb straight back up. Ugh.
By the time we got to the top, communication between our brain and legs was lacking. My friend tried to jump over a small mud puddle only to land squarely in the middle of it. I shouldn't have laughed as I quickly followed suit. Of course, I said it was all in the name of product testing my new Darn Tough VT socks...
Usually when I run, my brain runs a mile-a-minute thinking about anything and everything, but as we neared the end of our adventure, I realized that my brain was completely quiet. All of my concentration was focused on staying upright and moving forward. There was no room for thoughts. In fact, I felt like all my stress and worries were pushed out of my mind to make room for the focus needed to pick-up my feet and keep my balance. It was an amazingly freeing feeling.
At the end of the run, I was physically spent, but mentally refreshed and rejuvenated. And boy did those s'mores and pumpkin ale taste good!
Be Fit,
Steph |
| Schuyler's "Shoe" Review |
 Over a year ago, Tifosi Optics increased its market share to become the number one sunglass brand in run and bike shops. When you look at the quality, style and price tag, you won't be surprised why. For half the cost of other top brands, Tifosi sunglasses offer interchangeable, polarized and photochromic (color-adjusting) options in a variety of frames to fit all faces and colors to fit all styles.
This year's introduction of the Wisp was Tifosi's next big step forward. With a fit for extra-small faces, the Wisp was their lightest style at just 0.7 ounces. Along with color updates in top long-term styles like the Slip and Tyrant, the Wisp introduced bold new shades that looked like nothing else out there. The brand new "2012 Line" (available in store now) takes inspiration from the Wisp in the form of lighter frames, cooler colors and more dialed-in fit.
 The Tempt replaces the Envy with a small-medium fit, full coverage and a weight that still comes in just under one ounce. If you want to go back and forth between running, biking and playing in an arena rock band, the Altar provides wide coverage, a huge range of fit adjustment and the snazziest colors and styling of the entire Tifosi line.
 Cyclists and triathletes will appreciate the Seek and Seek FC (full coverage lens). These two styles feature no top or bottom rim, allowing for better visibility when leaned into an aero position on a bike. For those who just need a basic pair of shades, the single-lens Core and Jet provide full-frame and rimless options, respectively. With an unbeatable price, these two styles still come in a fashion show worth of colors and feature the same non-slip rubber and anti-fog technology of the rest of the Tifosi line.
 Like almost all existing styles, the new models are available in Fototec. The most popular shade, High Speed Red, adjusts based on sunlight from 12%-35% light transmission (click here to see a demo). This means that they quickly transition when coming to an open field from trails. Morning and evening fitness fanatics will appreciate that it gradually darkens as the sun comes out on your morning run, or gradually lightens as the sun sets on your bike ride. |
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Amy's Gear Corner | |
It's peak racing season! Look as fast as you feel (or feel as fast as you look) in these great pieces from Adidas:
 Adizero Singlet & Split Shorts (men):Guys, if you're looking for a little flash to intimidate your competition, check out this sharp racing kit. The dark navy and infrared colors are wicked cool and really pop as seen by the Adidas athletes wearing it at the Track & Field World Champtionships in Daegu. The singlet and split shorts are made with Adidas' highest technology, super lightweight fabric, including X-Static silvers to keep you cool, dry and odor-free, and design elements like "Formotion" which utilizes 3-D principles for freedom of motion in all planes.
 Supernova Tank & Shorts (women): Pretty in pink and speedy in pink - that is what you will be in this flattering, made-for-performance outfit. Both the tank and shorts feature ClimaCool so you stay comfortable and dry. Both top and bottom are miCoach compatible which means they feature zippered pockets that are perfect for holding your keys, money or a gel. The t-back on the tank is super comfortable and the shorts, while looking a bit on the short side, actually provide great coverage and a cute fit. You have to try them on to believe it!
 Marathon 10 Shorts (women): Grete Waitz was an Adidas-sponsored athlete during her entire life. To honor her loyalty, Adidas created the Marathon 10 line of women's apparel that not only feature a silhouette of Grete and her famous pigtails, but gives a portion of the proceeds from each piece sold to Grete's foundation, AKTIV Against Cancer. These M10 shorts provide just the right balance between fit, comfort, performance and, of course, style with its feminine cut and colors.
 Seamless shirt (women): This shirt is so comfortable because it moves with you, not against you. Its lightness makes it perfect for the days when you want nothing holding you back! I often grab this top for days when I want freedom of motion and nothing constricting. The ClimaCool fabric is soft and features ventilation and primo moisture management. There are even reflective features which are great this time of year. Add to it the bright turquoise color with lime green accents and cute design woven into the fabric, and you've got yourself a stylish top!
Also just in are wonderful new clothes from Nike and Brooks for both men and women - including Nightlife jackets (is it already time for runs in the dark?!) |
| Kids Running Program - Only 50 Spots Left! |  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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No Boundaries Program Starts Oct 1 |
It's not too late to accomplish your goal of running a 5k in 2011! Our popular No Boundaries "Couch to 5k" Program in partnership with New Balance will be kicking off our last session of the year on Saturday, Oct 1 at 9am. The program ends with the Mitten Run 5k in Blue Back Square on Sunday, December 4.
Our popular "Learn to Run" program is designed for people who don't run, those who have a hard time sticking to a running program or are unsure what to do. We use run/walk intervals and slowly ramp-up the time spent running and distance covered until you can complete a full 5k (3.1 miles). We will also teach you proper form using New Balance's Good Form Running Program principles so you can run easier and enjoy it!
For those who have successfully completed a 5k recently, we will offer an advanced training program for you designed to help you run faster and more comfortably.
We will kick-off the 10-week program with an Information/Meet the Coaches Night on Wednesday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Our first practice is Saturday, October 1 at 9am (meet at the store).
In addition to our regular group practice on Saturday mornings, you will be encouraged to join the Fleet Feet group on Wednesday and Thursday evenings for an optional run (we will have routes that coincide with your training schedule).
You do not need to make every practice in order to successfully complete the program - though, participants that come to at least half the practices and finish a 5k will earn themselves a sweet running jacket courtesy of New Balance!
No one is too old or too slow for this program so be courageous and join us! Register online here or in the store. Program fee is $95. |
| Disney Marathon Training - Starts Oct 22 | |
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 starts on Saturday, October 22. Participants should be able to complete a long run of 11 miles before the first practice. 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. |
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Featured Races: |
The Fall Racing Season is in full swing with multiple races to choose from every weekend. Here are a few of our favs:
5th Annual Union Street Tavern Trot
Sunday, September 18 at 12:30pm
Looking to run a bit more than a traditional 5k? Try the 5th annual Union Street Tavern Trot. This fun 3.5 mile run/walk that courses over road and trail through historic Windsor Center and Loomis Chaffee School. It is hosted by the Union Street Tavern (site of one of our most popular BRINK's this summer). All proceeds from this Manchester Road Race qualifying run benefits Alex's Lemonade Foundation, a national charitable foundation for childhood cancer research.
You can register online here or beginning at 11am at the Union Street Tavern on race day. Cost is $25 for adults and $10 for kids aged 12-18. Children under 12 are FREE!
The first 500 registered runners will get a race t-shirt (pick-up your shirt at the Tavern on Saturday between 5-8pm and get a free glass of wine or draft beer!). After the race stick around for live entertainment and free refreshments including beer and food! The race is held rain or shine.
Click here for more information.
Farmington Vally YMCA 5K & Pump-and-Run
Sunday, September 18 at 9am
The 8th Annual Farmington Valley YMCA Annual Fall 5k & Pump-and-Run is also this Sunday. The race course begins and ends at the Farmington Valley YMCA in Granby and winds its way along scenic local neighborhood streets in between. It is a certified 5K course (and a "Manchester Qualifier Race") that includes rolling hills and a fast downhill last mile back to the YMCA.
Again this year is a "Pump and Run" category where you earn a 15 second deduction off of your 5k finish time for each bench repetition performed (weight pressed will be a percentage of your body weight to make the competition fair for everyone). Other race features include: free onsite babysitting, great raffle prizes, showers and changing facilities. Walkers and wheelchair participants are welcome.
Register online through Friday here - or on race day beginning at 7:45am at the Granby YMCA. All proceeds benefit the YMCA Strong Kids campaign.
Mari's Miles of Smiles 10k
Saturday, September 24 at 9:30am
Looking for a 10k to test your endurance and speed? Check out the 2nd Annual Mari's Miles of Smiles 10k & Family Fun Fest that begins at the Norton School in Cheshire. Proceeds from the run will benefit special education and early intervention services and programs. The race is held in honor of Mari, the autistic daughter of Fleet Feet Peeps, Lisa and Matt Hall.
This USATF certified 10k features rolling hills, a stretch along the Farmington Canal path, computerized timing and a $100 prize to the top male and female, plus medals for the Top 3 winners in male and female in each age group. The first 300 participants to register will get a tech tee!
In addition to the 10k race, there will be a Family Fun Fest including a fun 1k run ($5 at 9am), 100 yard dashes for two age groups, organized dance and exercise activities, food vendors, clowns, bounce houses, face painting and other family carnival fare.
Registration is just $30 through September 22 ($35 after). You can register online by clicking here or on race morning.
For more information on the Mari Hall Foundation or the event, click here.
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Cauliflower: Broccoli's Pale Cousin
By Aubrey Schulz | |
 I am forever preaching, "eat your green leafys." If you listen to that advice (I wish more people would), then cauliflower would never find its way onto your plate. Like its green relative broccoli, cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable. As part of the cruciferous family, cauliflower offers many health benefits to several body systems; the detox, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory systems. These body systems are placed under stress during extensive bouts of exercise. Rebuild your body stronger by fueling with foods give something back. Cauliflower, with its power-packed nutrition profile does exactly that.
A visit to your local farm should provide a big, vibrant head of cauliflower. Combine it with some curry to spice up the upcoming cool fall nights.
Roasted Curried Cauliflower
- 1 head cauliflower, leaves and core removed, florets cut into ¼ inch slices
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon plus ½ teaspoon lemon juice, divided
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- fresh cilantro leaves
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400
- In a large bowl whisk together oil, 1 Tablespoon lemon juice, curry powder, salt and paprika.
- Add cauliflower and toss to coat.
- Spread on a large baking pan and bake for about 25- 30 minutes, until tender crisp and brown. Sprinkle with remaining lemon juice and cilantro.
Bonus Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Soup:
Take your leftover cauliflower and put it to new use. Puree the leftovers, veggie broth and a touch of coconut milk (or regular milk) for a nourishing soup.
---------------------------------- 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, Sept 14 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Sept 14 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Thurs, Sept 15 @ 6:30pm
Track Workout
Saint Joseph College
All abilities welcome!
Sat, Sept 17 @ 9-10:30am
FREE Injury Assessments
by Select Physical Therapy
Sat, Sept 17 @ 7am
Informal Marathon Training
Group Run - 13 Miles
Pace Range: 8-12min/mile
All are welcome
Meet at Fleet Feet
Sat, Sept 17 @ 8am
Run/Walk Meet-Up
Meet New Training Partners
All abilities welcome!
Mon, Sept 19 @ 6am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All Abilities Welcome
Mon, Sept 19 @ 7pm
Good Form Running Clinic
w/Olympian Grant Robison
Saint Joseph College
FREE - RSVP here
Wed, Sept 21 @ 6:00am
Morning Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Wed, Sept 21 @ 6:30pm
Evening Fun Run
3-5 Casual Miles
All abilities welcome
Thurs, Sept 22 @ 6:30pm
New Balance Prediction Mile
& Track Workout
Prizes for Accuracy (not speed)
FREE & Fun!
Sat, Sept 24 @ 9am
CT Sprint Triathlon
Championship
Cedar Lake - Chester, CT
Register here
Sun, Sept 25 @ 6:30am
Informal Marathon Training
Group Run - 19 Miles
Pace Range: 8-12min/Mile
All are welcome
Meet at Farmington Rail Trail
on Brickyard Rd (1 mile on your left after Wood N'Tap)
Mon, Sept 26 @ 6:30pm
BRINK (Bike, Run, drINK)
Meet at Newingtonton Bike
Convene at Vito's Pizzeria
Wed, Sept 28 @ 7:00pm
No Boundaries 5k Training Program Info Night
You CAN run a 5k!
Sat, Oct 1 @ 9am
1st No Boundaries Practice
Sign-up here |
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FREE Injury Assessments
Sat, Sept 17 - 9-10:30am | |
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, Oct 1.
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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Good Form Running Clinic
Mon, Sept 19 @ 7pm Sponsored by New Balance |  | |
We are excited to announce that Olympian Grant Robison and Matthew Capstick from New Balance will be hosting a FREE Good Form Running Clinic from 7-8:00pm at Saint Joseph College (in the O'Connell Athletic Center) on Sept. 19.
Good Form Running was born out of the simple insight that most runners, from the occasional jogger to an elite athlete, were never taught how to run. It was first developed by Curt Munson, owner of Playmaker sports (a running specialty store in MI) who, after being chronically injured, realized that no one practices running.
Overstriding, heel striking, and bad posture are all things that cause a runner to exert more effort, and possibly cause injury due to increased strain. So, working together, Curt and Grant broke running form down into four simple, but highly effective points that can help transform anyone into a more efficient, healthy runner.
During this one hour clinic, you will learn those four key points and practice implementing themwith fun drills. The clinic is open to everyone - no matter your experience level or pace. It's sure to be one of the most valuable clinics we have ever offered so mark your calendar today! |
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1st Ever CT Sprint Triathlon Championship Sat, Sept 24 - 9am |  |
FleetFeet Sports is teaming up with Newington Bike and Trek Bicycles to host Connecticut's first ever Spring Triathlon Championship!
The event will be held at Cedar Lake in Chester, CT on Saturday, September 24 at 9am. Any triathlete who has competed in the Lake Terramuggus or Cedar Lake series this summer is eligible to compete in the championship race.
Registration is $35 and include a t-shirt if you register before September 17. You may participate as an individual or a 2-3 person relay team.
Click here to register online.
Thanks to our sponsors including Pearl Izumi, Shimano, Timex, ESPN, Gu, Hammer Nutrition, HRG Nutrition and Hoffman Auto, there will be an abundance of great prizes and swag.
A special race-within-the race will take place between relay teams comprised of Newington Bike and Fleet Feet Sports staffers to determine which store reigns supreme. Go Fleet Feet!! |
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New Balance Prediction Mile & Shoe Demo
Thurs, Sept 22 @ 6:30pm |  | |
While most races reward finishing first, the New Balance Prediction Mile rewards accuracy. Get closest to your predicted time to win great prizes from Fleet Feet Sports and New Balance.
Runners will have a chance to warm up with a practice mile using their watches and an official timer. After this, everyone has to make their prediction, forfeit their watches and line up for the start. No lap times are given, just your official finish. Last year, the winner finished just a second off of her predicted time!
The best three finishes win prizes, in addition to the top finisher in New Balance shoes and the top finisher in New Balance Minimus Road or Minimus Trail (we will have demo pairs for you to try).
After the mile, join the regulars at the Thursday Night Track Workout for a free "mini-workout."
Questions? Email Schuyler |
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BRINK
Mon, Sept 26 @ 6:30pm Vito's in Newington |  |
Grab a friend, your kids or colleagues and join us for our another BRINK (Bike, Run, drINK) - this time we'll hit the streets of Newington with our friends from Newington Bike.
We will meet at 6:30pm in the parking lot of Newington Bike, then head out via foot or bike for 30-45min of fun. Afterwards, we'll head across the street to Vito's for some tasty free eats & ice cold drinks at special prices.
The BRINK is on rain or shine - and is family friendly! |
| 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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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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