The Extra Mile June 28, 2016

Last week, I joined the over 150 Fleet Feet Sports store owners in California for our annual summer conference. This year was a special occasion as we celebrated Fleet Feet's 40th Anniversary. While we are a franchise, we are foremost a family linked together by our passion to build the running community in our towns and to be a starting line for those looking to lead a healthier life.

It all began in Sacramento on June 1, 1976 when Sally Edwards and Elizabeth Jansen set a new milestone for women's running: the first run specialty shop to be owned and operated by women. The 28 year old friends purchased an old Victorian for nearly every penny they had, renovated it, mostly by themselves, and set-up shop hoping to sell at least 8 shoes a day so they could break even.

They penned a manifesto that beautifully describes the essence of the run and the inspiration for the name "Fleet Feet":

"Feet striding swiftly over the grassy plain-a primordial memory. No longer do we chase the game or flee the predator, yet still do the legs yearn to [traverse] the earth, the lungs to inhale the sky, the body to pour forth its joy, the heart to race with life, the mind to know that forever is now. . . .

Running feet are in flight and [descend] to perch only for the briefest rest in their long migration. The call they hear echoes from both the [past] and the future. A foot rises and reaches and steps between the eternal moment. Fleet are the feet, serene in the spirit of the runner"

--excerpt from Fleet Feet Sports' original manifesto, 1976

In an interview with Sally that was featured at the conference, Sally said "The highest state is BE. When your behaviors match your intent, that matches your values, then you BE. Fleet Feet is BE."

Goosebumps! At that moment, I was struck by how fortunate I am to have reached a state of BE. To have a career that enables me to be me. To pursue my goal of making our world a little better for at least one person each day. I've always loved the saying that when you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life. So true.

I know that this wouldn't be possible if weren't for this wonderful community of runners and staff that shares my passion. It's because of you that Fleet Feet-West Hartford will celebrate its 20 year anniversary next April. It's because of you that we will continue to empower and enable people to be for another 20+ year!

Live Fit,

Steph

Nike Running Camp Scholarship Contest

Fleet Feet is a proud partner of Nike's Green Mountain Running Camp, and this year we are excited to offer a scholarship for a full week at camp to one deserving runner! All student runners entering at least the 7th grade this fall are eligible to enter.

Deadline to apply is Tuesday, July 5 - winner will be announced via our Facebook page on Wednesday, July 6. The winner will be selected based on the merit of your essay as judge by a committee of Fleet Feet staff (names and schools will be removed from the application before the staff reads the essays to ensure fairness).

To complete the scholarship application, click here.

Natalie's Shoe Review

Brooks Victory Collection

I reviewed the Ghost, Glycerin & Launch in last issue, but I can't resist giving you a sneak peek at Brooks' limited-edition "Victory Collection" designs that are arriving this week. Even if you don't wear neutral shoes to run, these shoes are great everyday shoes that show your support for Team USA this summer!

Asics DynaFlyte

Asics continues to incorporate the innovations from their ground-breaking MetaRun prototype shoe that they debuted to much acclaim last year. Their latest shoe, called the DynaFlyte, debuts this Friday.

The shoe features a full-length FlyteFoam midsole - a material that took the ASICS Institute of Sports Science three years in development and 300 individual prototypes to engineer. It is their lightest, most responsive cushioning system ever - 55% lighter than EVA (the industry standard foam). Thanks to its reinforced fibers, FlyteFoam bounces back to its original shape post-run so you'll enjoy soft landings for many miles.

Combine that with the a seamless upper, 8mm heel-to-toe drop to encourage a quicker transition and more responsive ride, luxurious materials in the heel collar, tongue and sock liner and a custom colorway celebrating Fleet Feet Sports' 40th Anniversary, and Asics has hit the jackpot on a fantastic neutral trainer for the 21st Century runner!

Hoka One One: Clifton 3

Also, debuting this week is the new Clifton 3 from Hoka One One. The Clifton is Hoka's neutral, lightweight daily training shoe featuring the ultra-cushioned ride that distance runners - and broken runners - love! The one aspect of the shoe that folks didn't love so much was the narrower "Europeon last" that the shoe was built on which squeezed the forefoot - which is why this update is such big news since Clifton 3 is built on their "American last" which means a more generous forefoot! This new version also features a 3D mesh upper and a seamless speed frame construction for extra comfort all the way around.

Want to give this maximally cushioned shoe reviewers are calling "Amazing, made better" a try? Join our Fun Run this Wednesday at 6:30pm when our Hoka reps, Andrew & Aaron bring demos to try during the run...and host a post-run party at the Elbow Room afterward. Fun times!

Nancy's Picks...for Vacation!

Fleet Feet is not only a great destination for running gear, but for your vacation gear too! I'm celebrating summer vacation with my grown-up kids on Block Island this week, and I couldn't help but laugh when we unpacked because most everything we brought came from Fleet Feet! Here are a few of our vacation essentials:

1. Oofos: Of course! I can't live without these sandals that provide arch support and oh-so-amazing cushioning. Is it wrong that I own 6 pairs??

2. Buff: Keeps my beach hair under control! Another secret I've learned is to spray it with bug spray before hiking in the woods or Rodman's Hollow!

3. ShowerPill: When you don't have time to shower after a race (or long day at the beach) these extra-large body wipes are awesome to wipe the sweat and sand away.

4. Zoot: My son Troy loves his Zoot shorts because he can run and swim in them. The long length and fun California beach-inspired prints look sharp too!

5. CamelBak Bottles: Perfect for water, Nuun...and margaritas! I love how the insulated bottles keep my beverages ice cold, even when the bottle sits in the hot sand all day.

6. Tifosi Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UVA/B rays and score some style points too! I love the blue tortoise Hagen's while my daughter Taylor rocks the gloss black and pink Dea's.

7. ProBar: Don't have time for a formal meal? These meal replacement bars are made with real nuts, seeds and fruits so they are as delicious as they are nutritious!

8. Zephry Flashlight: It gets dark on Block Island so if we're headed into town for the evening, I bring my Zephry light. Super bright and fits into my hands like a glove!

9. Believe Journal: What a great way to reflect at the end of your day. Room to record your workouts and thoughts, as well as thoughtful passages to inspire and motivate.

10. Hickies: With these ingenious silicon bands, I get to take a vacation from tying my sneakers too! Perfect for triathletes, kids and the elderly.

And don't forget your favorite running shoes because some of your best runs happen on vacation!

Get to Know Your Fleet Feet Staff: Kate

I started working at Fleet Feet back in February 2011. I was a big swimmer in school (and had been working at Cornerstone Aquatics) and wanted to get into triathlons but I had no running experience. I started running with Coach Rich and the No Boundaries program and fell in love with the sport and the store. After getting a few 5k's under my belt, I started doing Sprint triathlons - the Hartford Marathon Foundation's women's-only tri at Winding Trails is my favorite.

My first big job at Fleet Feet was being the race director for a 5k Walk in partnership with Weight Watchers. We thought we would get about 100 participants, but by race day, over 500 people had registered. To complicate matters, the river flooded the course the night before the event so I had to scramble to create a new course on dry land. Stressful, but so much fun too! My other favorite events that I helped created at the store were the BRINKS (Bike, Run, drINK) and the Urban Challenge.

When I'm not at Fleet Feet you may find me playing my flute with Capital Winds a community group at University of Hartford, throwing pottery in Collinsville, baking, or on my bike seeing how many miles and state lines I can cross. What can I say, I just can't sit still!

Running Gear I Can't Live Without:

No matter if I am going out for a ride or a run I have to have my GPS watch, my Brooks Adrenaline's and KT Tape. Working for Timex, I love their watches, but I've recently become addicted to the Garmin Vivoactive. I love to challenge myself to see if I can push myself to go a few more miles than I did previously. I love the Adrenaline because I am a classic example of a runner who pronates and the Adrenaline provides the perfect amount of support for my feet; and I'm such a fan of KT-Tape (I'm usually nursing a sore something-or-other), that my co-workers call me KT-Kate. Come see me, and I'll tape you up too!

Summer Training: It's Not Too Late to Join Us!

Have you dreamed of running a 5k, 10k or even a half or full marathon? Stop dreaming, this is your year to actually DO IT!

Grab a friend or make new ones when you join in one of our summer training programs. We have options for the true beginner through experienced runner and take pride in being with you every step of the way whether it's offering encouragement, high-fives and camaraderie during your long run, proven training plans, expert coaching, race discounts or those tips and tricks that make running just a bit easier.

Programs available in both Glastonbury and West Hartford.

WalkFit - starts June 25

No Boundaries 5k - starts June 25

No Boundaries 10k - starts June 25

Fall Marathon - starts June 26

Fall Half Marathon - starts July 23 (now offering run/walk intervals!)

In-Store Events

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 Speed & Strength Sessions (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

Special Events:

FREEDOM SALE - Wed, June 29 - Sunday, July 3
Fun Run w/Hoka One One (Clifton 3 Launch Party)

- Wed, June 29 @ 6:30pm
5k, 10k & Marathon Training Programs -

Saturday & Sunday
CLOSED on July 4 (Monday)
Fun Run w/Addaday Massage - Wed, July 6 @ 6:30pm
Brooks Run Happy Hour (socialize, exercise & revitalize) - Tues, July 12 @ 6:00pm

Run Happy Hour - Tues, July 12 @ 6pm

Join us at the store a for a new kind of Happy Hour that features Socializing, Exercising & Revitalizing! This new monthly event is hosted by Select Physical Therapy, Brooks Running, Hartford Marathon Foundation and Fleet Feet Sports and will feature special guest breweries and product vendors.

The fun begins at 6pm with a short educational talk from Select Physical Therapy about the foot (especially common runner injuries and how to treat and strengthen). Then at 6:15pm, Coach Natalie will lead us in a 3 mile run/walk through the neighborhoods surrounding West Hartford Center.

After the run, staffer Josh will lead everyone through a stretching session designed to lengthen, strengthen and get rid lactic acid. Then, it's time to sample brews from a favorite local brewery while the physical therapists from Select PT offer free injury assessments and answer any questions you may have.

The event is FREE and open to all!

Featured Events & Races

	Pacers Needed - VT100 - July 16-17 Sometimes the best race experiences happen when you're not competing, but rather volunteering...and this volunteer opportunity combines the best of both worlds as you get to run AND help simultaneously! The VT 100 ultra-race on July 16-17, one of the sport's Grand Slam events, is seeking pacers for distances ranging from 10-30 miles. To learn more about the event, click here - to volunteer to become a pacer, click here.
	Red Dress Run for Women - Sat, July 9 @ 8:30am This ladies-only event celebrates women's fitness in a non-intimidating environment. The 5k run/walk begins (and ends) in Elizabeth Park's beautiful Rose Garden where over 15,000 roses are expected to be in bloom. After the race spend some time in the Finish Line Village which is a vibrant festival of tents filled with information, goods and service that help women live fit and delicious strawberry parfaits. Yum!! Click here for more info.
	Torrington 5M Race & 1M Fun Run- August 14 @ 10am The 45th Annual Torrington Donors Week Road Race is a classic hometown 5 mile road race & 1-Mile fun run that warmly welcomes runners of all ages and abilities. Pre-registration is just $15 ($25 after August 2) and $5 for kids 18 and under. The mile fun run is FREE! First 200 registrants receive a race tee and all proceeds benefit the Torrington Trails Network. Learn more here.

Aubrey's Recipe

Slow Cooker Spinach & Ricotta Lasagna

In our household, midweek triathlons keep us out past traditional dinner time. Coming home with a car full of soggy, stinky gear, plus a tired and hungry toddler (and grown ups), means little time to prepare dinner. Using the slow cooker feature on the Instant Pot, has been so helpful. I'll assemble something in the slow cooker before leaving and when we come home, dinner is warm and ready to be served.

There are many varieties of lasagna. Use this recipe as a template or search online for others. With a hefty portion of spinach, it's a great way to get in your greens. The best part is during the hot summer days, you're not heating up the house with the oven.

Click Here for Recipe

Store Hours:

Monday: 10am - 7pm

Tuesday: 10am - 7pm

Wednesday: 10am - 8pm

Thursday: 10am - 7pm

Friday: 10am - 7pm

Saturday: 10am - 5:30pm

Sunday: 11am - 5pm*

* Now Open Sunday's at 11am!

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

or call us at: 860-233-8077

Looking for a deal?

Check out our Freedom Sale (scroll up to the top of this newsletter for full details of the sweet savings that can be yours!). The Sale runs from Wednesday, June 29 through Sunday, July 3, 2016.