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The Extra Mile July 12, 2016
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Running is just more than just a way to stay in shape or lose a few pounds. Running has the power to enrich our lives. To help us discover our inner strengths and build confidence. To give us the courage to push beyond the limits our mind sets for our bodies. To take us to new places and introduce us to new people who become the best of friends. Running has the power to change everything!
Last month we sponsored an essay contest to send a student-runner to Nike's Green Mountain Running Camp. Applicants wrote about how running has impacted their life and why they wanted to go to running camp. We received lots of great essays from deserving students, but one, written by Simsbury High School sophomore, Lilia Dunnigan, stood out. Lilia's winning essay is below - prepare to be inspired!
Running up the steep hill, my mind twisted with thoughts. My legs ached with pain and my arms dragged me down like weights; I wanted to quit. It was only the second week of practice and I was ready to give up. But, here is how my journey of learning how to love running has impacted my life in more than one way.
The summer before my freshman year, friends and family encouraged me to play a fall sport to make new friends and stay active. Agreeing with them, I chose XC. But, little did I know that there's a tremendous amount of preparation before the season even starts. On the first day of practice we ran a two-mile time trial. Excited, I sprinted the whole way and finished right behind the Varsity girls.
All went well until I woke up the next morning. Not in my entire life have I ever felt that much pain to walk. Struggling to climb the stairs at school, I worried about how practice would go that afternoon. Surely it was hill repeat day...yay. But there was no way I could let my team and coach see how weak I was; I toughened up and completed it.
Two weeks later, we had our first meet. Although I was still in pain, I ran the race. Dedicated to finishing everything I start, I was the last girl to pass the finish line with an embarrassing time of 32:38. Severe strikes of pain shot down my legs and up into my hips. I thought that was going to be my first and last race... I went home that day defeated and disappointed. "Is this even worth it?" I asked myself. My body said no, but I said yes.
For the next month I ran cautiously but, more importantly, smart. My mom purchased me a new pair of sneakers (from Fleet Feet-thank you!), I iced my legs after practice, and ate a healthy diet. Slowly, my performances at meets improved noticeably enough for my coach to speak to me. "You're ready Lilia! Don't hold back." However the fear of having that pain again held me back. I needed something to be inspired from.
For the next couple days, I searched for ideas, people, and things for motivation but I couldn't find the missing piece to the puzzle. As I nervously approached the start-line for our last meet, I thought, "I can do this." Seconds later the gun shot and I sprinted down the straight-away. Hill after hill I gained speed and momentum. Nothing was going stop me.
In what felt like seconds, I captured a glance of the halfway marker. All I had left was two rocky hills and the agonizing finish. I gave my 110% effort to make every step worth it. I flew up and over the hills to find myself nearing the end. Both my arms and legs thrusted me forward. My heart pounded uncontrollably as I gasped for air. Sweat dripped down my forehead.
Finally, I crossed the finish line at 24:13 to see a crowd cheering. For the first time that season, I felt accomplished and proud of myself. Not only did I drop eight minutes in a 5k that season, I learned more of who I am. The missing piece to the puzzle was myself.
Running taught me how to be open-minded and to have self-discipline. It gave me lifelong friendships, a passion to do well in school, and strength to achieve dreams. I believe with the help of Green Mountain Running Camp, I will be able to continue to learn how running can impact my life for the better.
We agree Lilia and hope you have an awesome week at camp!
Steph
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 Runners know their towns - whether it's the best place for a long run, the prettiest trails, the steepest hills or the best spot for post-run treats.
We've created a new web page devoted to sharing the best tips and advice from runners throughout the Hartford area. We'll post a new topic in each newsletter with a link for folks to comment on, and then share the results on our web site.
First up - breakfast! Where is your favorite post-run breakfast location? Click here to share your tips!
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Natalie's Shoe Review: Adidas
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For many, summertime means it's time to crank-up the training for fall races by adding some speed into your running routine. Choose a performance shoe to help naturally increase your turnover and make you feel faster too! Adidas offers two great choices - one for neutral runners and one for those who need a little stability.
Adidas Boston Boost 6:
Adidas' neutral trainer/performance shoe features a sleek, snug fit that makes it great for your speedwork and on race day (especially for us older runners who want a bit more cushion underfoot than a traditional racing flat). The upper is composed of a new airy mesh upper on the men's and knitted upper on the women's to lock down the foot while providing greater breathability.
The midsole is made with Adidas' proprietary Boost foam for tremendous energy return and resiliency and the outsole has the same durable rubber found on Continental tires that provides better traction even on slick surfaces. 10mm drop, 8.5oz (men) & 6.7oz (women). $120
 Adidas Vengeful:The Vengeful is a light stability shoe meant for cushion and performance. Like all of Adidas' shoes for the run specialty market, the midsole features full-length Boost foam for a plush, smooth ride. It differs from the Boston Boost thanks to the StretchWeb outsole and StableFrame technology that combine to provide stability and support from the heel through the mid-foot. There is also a FitBand around the midfoot for added arch support. With a two-toned design, this shoe gets high marks for its kickin' style. 10mm, 11.8oz (men), 10.1oz (women). $110
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Nancy's Picks - 3 Brand New Sports Bras!
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Anyday Bra:
A sports bra that can do double-duty as an everyday bra? Yes, please! Soft and silky, yet still moisture-wicking, plus the straps convert from regular to criss-cross so it looks great with your strappy tanks. Available in black and sterling. Band: 32-38, Cup: B-D
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FrontRunner Bra:
Sleek & Seamless! This stylish sports bra features contoured cups that enhance shape and support, a deep v-neckline that adds breathability and style and a soft, stretchy bottom band for maximal comfort. Best for A-B cups and low-impact activities. Sm, Med & Large.
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Embody Bra:
This bra is the real deal for fuller-cupped women thanks to a blend of encapsulation, compression, underwire and padded convertible straps. The wide bottom band is brushed for added softness for a bra with unparalleled comfort and control. Band: 32-38, Cup: DD-G.
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Get to Know Your Fleet Feet Staff: Joe
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I have been a part of the Fleet Feet team since July of 2014. I'm usually the one dressed head-to-toe in Nike which has earned me the nickname "Mr. Nike" by my co-workers. In addition to working as a Fit Professional and helping people of all ages and abilities find the best shoe for them, I am a student-athlete at CCSU where I am pursuing a double-major in Accounting and Marketing while also running on the XC and track teams.
While I run XC, I am not much of a distance runner. I'd much rather be on the track where my specialties are the 800m and Mile. Just like it is for so many runners, my running path has been full of the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Last indoor season I ran a 4:02 mile which broke CCSU's school record in the mile which had stood for over 50 years - a definite high! But the most at peace I've been with running is finishing 5th in 1000m during the nationally televised USA Indoor Championships last winter.
While I spend the majority of my days running, working in a running store and hanging out with other runners, I do enjoy backpacking and look forward to escaping to VT to hike the Long Trail (and get some higher elevation training in!). I'm also looking forward to watching the Olympics and dream of competing on that stage next time!
Running Gear I Can't Live Without:
There are four things I have to have whenever I go for a run. The first and most important is my shoes, specifically my Nike Pegasus. I have trained in these shoes for 6 years - they are my go to for nearly every training run. I especially love all the extra forefoot cushioning that the new Pegasus 33 offers.
The second item is my Feetures socks. I was introduced to these socks on my first day at FF and the rest is history. I also need to have my Garmin 230 which logs all of my runs so I can accurately track my progress and training. Lastly, I have to have my Nike Dri-Fit hat which is pretty much a permanent part of my outfit even when I'm not running!
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Half Marathon Training Program - Begins 7/23
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Don't run half of something. Crush the whole 13.1! When you train for your half marathon with Fleet Feet Sports & the Hartford Marathon Foundation, you will benefit from our professional head coaches, experienced mentors, well-managed group runs (including a practice run on the official Eversource Hartford Half Marathon course) and informational clinics on nutrition, hydration, gear, injury prevention, stretching techniques, and more.
We are First-Time Friendly & Help Experienced Halfers Take It to the Next Level
Our Standard program is appropriate for anyone who wants to enjoy training to run (or run/walk) 13.1 miles. We welcome first-time half marathoners and veterans, runners and walkers looking for a structured program that will prepare them for a personal best. Participants must be able to run/walk at least 6 miles prior to the first practice.
Choose from programs on Saturday mornings in Glastonbury and Sunday mornings in West Hartford (may float between the two programs as well).
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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 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 is on Hiatus
Special Events:
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Fun Run w/SAXX Underwear (!!)
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Fun Run w/TruBar - Wed, July 20 @ 6:30pm
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Fun Run w/Feetures Socks - Wed, July 27 @ 6:30pm
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Newington Summer Run Series - Wed's thru August 17:
Lace up your running shoes and grab the family for summer fun on the run as the Newington Park and Rec department hosts a series of fun runs each Wednesday from July 13 through August 17 on the trails behind John Wallace Middle School. Choose from a traditional 5k or a 3k for younger kids and beginners. There is no cost to participate. For more information, email Race Coordinator Jay Krusell at jaykrusell@yahoo.com.
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Summer Grand Prix XC Series - Mon's thru August 22:
Once again the Silk City Striders will be hosting a series of XC runs on Monday evenings at Wickam Park - and Fleet Feet Night is August 8 (extra fun and prizes!). Cost is just $20 for adults and $15 for kids under 14. Kids can choose to run the 1 Mile or the "adult" 2.6 mile race. Learn more and download the registration application here.
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Trisha Meili is the author of best-selling memoir, I Am the Central Park Jogger: A Story of Hope and Possibility. Her story is about the capacity of the human body and spirit to heal. It is a story of hope and possibility - a story that she will share with us on Saturday, August 20. After her inspirational talk, Ms. Meili will answer questions and autograph her book. Tickets are $25, with all proceeds benefiting the Achilles International-Connecticut Chapter. Purchase your tickets here.
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Hope & Possibility 5k/10k/Walk/Kids Run - Sun, Aug 21:
Hope & Possibility is the signature race of the not-for-profit Achilles International. The race was founded in 2003 with the remarkable story and recovery of avid runner Trisha Meili and is run to celebrate the power of the human spirit and to create a unifying event that showcases the abilities of all athletes, running side-by-side. The race begins at 8am from the Metropolitan Learning Center School in Bloomfield and participants can choose from four options: 5k, 10k, Fitness Walk & Kids Run. To register, click here.
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Squash & Cheddar Discs
Departing from my usual entree recipe, I'm excited to share this tasty side dish. The magazine called these "squachos", but I'm not sure that's a name I can get behind. Whatever you call them, cook them, they are both surprisingly simple and yummy. With the abundance of zucchini and squash this time of year, it's an easy, cheesy vegetable dish to prepare.
Click Here for Recipe
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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: 11am - 5pm*
* Now Open Sunday's at 11am!
or call us at: 860-233-8077
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