Dear Athlete!
 
Running this morning's workout at 5:45 a.m. with my dog, Wesley (who tried to go after a fox and a coyote and practically ripped me out of my Mizuno's!), it's clear that the long day's of light has pumped up the number of people hitting the trails! Six months ago I'd be lucky to see one runner...today I saw 30.
 
Ten years ago I had two 5 day/week training partners at 5:30 a.m. Now I'm usually solo. Trouble is, I'm running slower unless someone shows up and then I simply go faster...naturally (those of you that do not ascribe to the notion of improving performance and are delighted to simply enjoy a training run will find what follows a bit overstated). Talk is cheap...I want to push myself more and see where it leads.
 
Recently I chatted with Rich Castro (you might've seen this recent article) and he mentioned how he was gearing up his training and having fun in the process. That sparked my interest and now I'm seeking one or two like-minded people to help me ratchet up my training a bit. Here's the deal: meet me at my home (Walnut Hills in Centennial about 1 mile south of Boulder Running Company 1/4 mile west of I-25 at Arapahoe Road) at 5:30 a.m. 2-3 times/week (will depend on my travel/announcing schedule), run 3-6 miles each time and carry a pace of 7-7:30/mile initially (with hopes of gradual improvement). I'll provide a hot tub, shower, coffee and breakfast if there's time! Have an agreeable dog that likes to run? Bring it!
 
Enough about me and my selfish quest... I want to turn to a very serious topic for a moment: Ovarian Cancer. This past year I've had the privilege to meet and get to know a group of talented and driven women who are members and advocates of the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance. This weekend is their debut Race For Awareness 5K at Denver's City Park. When Jodi Brammeier first contacted me about their dream to create the event and attract 1,000 people in the first year, I was quick to try to reign in her enthusiasm. "500 would be an ambitious 1st year," I quipped. She would have none of that. As of the writing of this letter with three days to go, they're well over 1,000!
 
Usually I do not spend substantial time in my letter promoting races we're affiliated with...too many great causes and too little space. This is my exception: I wrote about Jodi's courage in her battle with this devastating cancer back in the March Newsletter. God willing, Jodi will be at City Park on Saturday to see her dream come true. You see, her battle has gotten much tougher...the fight is more intense. Her husband, Jody and her legion of friends and event committee members (many of them in their own battles like the tireless Nana Zelligman-Flores) are by her side and I ask you to be there for her, too. Colorado loses over 200 women to this cancer every year. Help them help others, please.
 
While at Bolder Boulder (have to say as a veteran, I was completely overwhelmed by the post-event Memorial Day ceremony...Cliff and his dad, Steve Bosley write the script for that event from their hearts and it shows!) I spoke with an old friend, Darius Baer. He introduced me to a web site that is fascinating and worth a look: No Excuses Workouts. See what you think!
 
Paul Martin has a new book  coming out on June 23rd (Paul's a leg amputee record holder!). Add it to your inspirational collection!
 
Finally, please help us grow the Liberty Run and Walk 4 Mile on the 4th to a record level! Lonnie Somers and I are joining forces to make it better than ever by offering a technical shirt and a HydraPouch (cup-free) Sign up today!
 
Enjoy the weather and the trails!
 
Creigh