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The Extra Mile August 25, 2015
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 In 2012, we made the decision that instead of giving a little money to a lot of organizations, we would focus our dollars to make a bigger impact. We created a scholarship called "Run to a Better Future" that provides $10,000 a year for four years to a student-runner from Capital Preparatory Magnet School in downtown Hartford. Our first recipient was Shameal Samuels. In her application essay, Shameal wrote, "Growing up in an urban area where there are always crimes and someone going to jail, influenced me to stay out of trouble and work towards a goal so I can to make my dreams come true. I try my best in school and admit that there are times when I wanted to give up, but I did not. I have wanted to become a forensic scientist since I was a small child. I tell myself every day that I will do everything in my power to become a forensic scientist." Shameal is about to begin her senior year at Quinnipiac University, majoring in Criminal Science and running track. In fact, Shameal has broken several school records and was named as an Academic All-American this year, as well as Quinnipiac Athlete of the Year! She is on-pace to become the first in her family to attend - and graduate - from college. A true feat considering that her mom never completed high school. Even cooler is that Shameal's success both on the track and in the classroom has resulted in her not needing our scholarship this year, which means another deserving individual will have the opportunity to go to college debt-free. That individual is Kevin Rivera. I first met Kevin seven years ago at a summer running program for inner-city youth. I gave him a pair of shoes from our Shoe Library which provides sneakers for those in need. Those shoes combined with an amazing coach who cared for his athletes like his own kids, gave Kevin a platform to escape the cycle of poverty around him. Like Shameal, Kevin is the first in his family to attend a four-year university (Central CT State University where he also runs on the XC team). To pay it forward, Kevin approached me this summer to ask if he could manage the FF Shoe Library so more kids like him will receive the gift of shoes that provide them with purpose, dignity and the courage to stay in school and out of gangs. If you want to be inspired, click here to read Kevin's acceptance speech when Asics awarded us a grant for our Shoe Library. Simply amazing.
Both Shameal and Kevin started working at Fleet Feet this year. Their passion, fun personalities and strong work ethic quickly made them an integral part of the FF Family. When I look how they are succeeding in life, my heart swells with pride. I am also humbled because I know that without people like you who choose to shop at Fleet Feet (especially when big box stores and online giants can save you a few dollars and a gallon of gas), this scholarship wouldn't be possible. Together we are making a difference, one soul at a time! Steph
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Amy's Shoe Review: Pearl Izumi N3
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After the much anticipated return of a Pearl Izumi shoe, we have the latest and greatest Pearl Izumi Road N3 and it is Fleet Feet Sports Special Edition! The new N3 features the unique eMotion technology that sets this shoe apart from the rest of the super cushioned neutral shoes that are perfect for long runs on the road.
No, this eMotion won't cry with you after a long tempo run or be as excited as you after that next PR on your upcoming Hartford Half Marathon; but it will maximize the cushion of your run and provide lasting comfort for the whole distance. The Energy Foam in the forefoot and heel will return the energy of the impact of the stride into the next, talk about a great ROI (Return On Impact).
With a Dynamic Offset of 4mm upon initial impact to 7.5mm upon midstance creates the unique motion that is smooth and consistent with every stride. The upper is created using 3D printing to minimize the weight of the shoe, making this highly cushioned shoe different from other models. The shoe is also fairly priced at $130, so cushion doesn't have to be an expensive luxury for runners anymore.
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Our fall apparel has started to arrive! Check out the cool digital Look Book staffer Beth (our very-talented in-store Picasso) created to give you a sneak-peek of what's in-store now! |
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DonaJo Leggings
Women's leggings are still trending hot due to their comfort, versatility and fit (i.e. they make our butts look good!). These awesome new leggings feature all that plus fabulous prints, a super-soft hand and magical stretchy fabric. Perfect for running, yoga, barre, cross-fit and more. Express yourself!
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Trigger Point GRID STK
New to our family of massage products, this cool tool is a fusion of a massage stick and foam roller. This hand held foam roller has AcuGRIP handles and a 3-dimensional surface that channels nutrients directly to the tissue for health and mobility. Ahhh, hurts so good!
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Tops from The North Face
Whether you like sleeves or prefer to show-off your hard-earn biceps, The North Face has perfect new top for you featuring their Better then Naked ultra-breathable, crazy-light PowerDry fabric to keep you dry - even when you're conquering 50+km of trails in humid or wet conditions.
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Feetures! Socks
This phenomenal sock is one of my favs (I even wear them with my boots)! Its anatomic-fit hugs your arch and provides targeted support and compression to enhance circulation. Made from superior moisture wicking threads, the socks help keep your cool, dry and blister-free. Fun colors too!
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HICKIES Lacing System
Still tying your shoe laces? Even worse, still tying your kids shoe laces? Get HICKIES and ditch your laces. These unique no-tie stretchy "shoelaces" are available in a variety of colors sure to add pizzazz and comfort to your sneakers. Perfect for athletes, kids, elderly and sneakerheads!
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Compression Sleeves
Going long? Meet your new best friend - compression sleeves! These colorful calf/shin wraps optimize blood flow to your lower legs and reduce road vibration. The result is increased endurance, faster recovery and decreased chance of injury so you can get back out there.
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The Urban Challenge is Back!
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Registration is now open for The Urban Challenge - a fitness-trivia-scavenger hunt mash-up sponsored by Brooks and West Hartford Center businesses that is set for Friday, September 18 at 6pm.
The event is similar to the television show The Amazing Race, with teams of two receiving clues, completing challenges at different locations throughout the Center & Blue Back Square all while racing to be the first team to the finish line. Knowledge of the area will give you an advantage, but teams can use their phones, Internet and people on the street to help them solve the clues.
The event fee is $30 per person ($60 per two-person team) and includes a fabulous tech tee, schwag bag and awesome after-party featuring Thomas Hooker beers and Bears BBQ! There will be prizes for the Top 3 teams, as well other fun categories such as team name, costume, and most-spirited.
Click here to register online. The event is limited to 150 two-person teams and will sell out so don't dawdle. Plus if you register before September 1, you are guaranteed to get the shirt size you requested (late registrants will get a shirt, but sizes will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis).
Want a headstart? All those who participate in next Sunday's Power Hour will get a Fast-Forward which allows your team to skip one challenge.
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Life's best moments rarely happen on their own. You have to make them happen. Yes, it takes effort and hard work, but the results are more than worth it. They can be life-changing and lead to a more invigorated, empowered, healthier you.
Rediscover the thrill of challenging yourself and conquering your dreams and goals. You are never too old, too overweight or too out-of-shape to be successful. Discover your inner athlete and watch as a world of possibility and adventure open before you!
To learn more about our life-changing programs, click on the buttons below:
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There's always something going on at Fleet Feet and in our Running Community - visit our online calendar to keep up with the latest.
Weekly Events:
- Wed Fun Runs (6:30pm at the store) - Free
- Thurs Track Workouts (6:30pm at Hall HS) - Free
- Sat Injury Assessments w/Select PT (9:30-11am at store) - Free
- Sunday Yoga & Mobility w/Meghan (5:30pm at the store) - $15
Don't Miss Events THIS Week:
ADIDAS RECESS RUN - Wed @ 6:30pm:
Remember taking the Presidential Fitness Challenge in PE class? Sit-ups, push-ups, sit-and-reach and the Mile Run. We're bringing these dreaded tests back as part of a special "Recess Run" we're hosting with Adidas. Bring a towel/yoga mat & your sneakers or test drive a pair from Adidas and see if you can achieve the 85th percentile ranking to earn your Fitness Certificate! Old-school snacks will be served.
BROOKS POWER HOUR - Sunday @ 9am:
 Fleet Feet stores across the nation are battling to see which city can run the most miles in one hour (there is also a contest for the most creative photo). Help us win...and enjoy some tasty treats and fabulous prizes like FREE Brooks Ghost shoes! Speaking of ghosts, bring a bed sheet to be part of our ghostly group photo - best ghost face will win a pair of Ghosts for their feet! Plus all participants will win a Fast-Forward for our Urban Challenge.
COMING SOON:
Common Running Injuries - Tuesday, Sept 8 @ 7pm:
You aren't going to want to miss our upcoming PATtalk with our resident Professor of Running Wisdom, Patrick DellaPace and sponsored by Saucony. The topic this month is common running injuries - how to deal with them and avoid them. Patrick's organized a great line-up of experts like professional runner Tim Ritchie, sports orthopod Dr. Veltri, sports physical therapist Andrew Miller and running coach James McKirdy.
If you are struggling with a nagging running injury that you can't seem to kick or you just want to glean the latest and greatest knowledge that the running world has to offer, then come ready to be enlightened from the very best!
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Looking for something to fill your race calendar? Try one of these great events:
| 36th Annual Suffield 5k & 10k Races - Saturday, September 12
Start and finish at Suffield Middle School and course through the historic district, farmland and open spaces with picturesque views. The 5k race begins at 8:15am; the 10k at 9:15am (in case you want to run both!) Proceeds will be donated to the Suffield Parks and Rec. Male and female winner of the 10k earn a $100 Fleet Feet gift certificate! | 
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10th Annual Bob Veillette 5k - Saturday, September 12
Bob's 5k in Waterbury is a 5k run/1-mile walk that raises money for the ongoing medical and living expenses for Naugatuck resident Bob Veillette. Bob is a former runner, journalist and jazz pianist who suffered a massive stroke in 2006 that left him paralyzed from the nose down. To learn more about Veillette, visit www.BobVeillette.com.
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Run for the Fallen CT - Saturday, September 12:
Help honor the 65 fallen heroes from CT who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan at this year's Run for the Fallen CT event. There is no fee to participate, plenty of free food and beverages to keep you fueled and you can run as little or as much as you like. Volunteers are also needed if you prefer to not run. For more information, visit www.runforthefallenct.org
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Stratton Brook Trail 5k - Saturday, September 18:
Relive your youth and experience the thrill of running cross country in this fun 5k trail run over hills and across covered bridges at Stratton Brook Park in Simsbury. All ages and abilities are welcome!
Cost is just $15 and includes a Saucony tee. ALL proceeds will be donated to the Simsbury HS XC Team.
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Rock the Run 5k - Sunday, October 4:
Help us Shred Kids Cancer with this fun 5k in Simsbury organized by an incredible kid named Teagan Stedman in support of his friend battling cancer. We are hosting a water stop and need volunteers not afraid of a little water. Musical talents a plus. Email Steph to help - or click here to register to run.
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Grit 'N Wit 5k Obstacle Course - Saturday, October 24
Where BRAIN meets BRAWN! At Grit 'N Wit participants must complete 20+ physical obstacles and mental challenges over 3 miles. Teams are highly encouraged as two heads are better than one, and three heads...well, that's even better! Use promo code "FleetFeet" and save 15%! To learn more visit www.gritnwitrun.com.
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Smokey Beef & Bacon Chili
The recent temperatures make it feel like we are fully entrenched in summer, but the calendar and the back to school vibe, indicate that fall and cooler temps are closing in. I made this chili recently for our camping trip. It came together with little effort and once it cooled I froze it freezer bag.
While away, it was a useful ice pack to help keep the cooler foods chilled, along with the bag of ice. At the campsite, it was an easy dinner to reheat over the coals or on a propane stove. The smoky flavor really shines the next day. And everything is better with bacon.
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Store Hours:
Monday: 10am - 7pm
Tuesday: 10am - 7pm
Wednesday: 10am - 8pm
Thursday: 10am - 7pm
Friday: 10am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 5:30pm
Sunday: 12 - 5pm
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Singlet Sale