The Conqueror - Autumn 2018

Autumn Running - Joe Lauer at the 2014 Manchester Marathon
photo by Thomas Cole

President's Corner

Julie Holt, President

Is there any better season for running than autumn? (Spoiler alert: there is not.) Crisp air, mild temps and an abundance of great autumn races is a perfect recipe for running enjoyment. It's always exciting to cheer on fellow SRRs as they run their fall goal races, and this season has been no different. We had large crews representing SRR at Chicago and Bay State, and smaller groups at Marine Corps, Cape Cod and others. Coming up in the next few weeks we have runners heading to New York City and Philadelphia. Whether your goal is a PR, a BQ, to cross a finish line or something else entirely - I hope you feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of the fall running season.

I also hope that if you're in the Somerville area for Thanksgiving you'll have time to spend some of your holiday with us at the Gobble Gobble Gobble. The Gobble is one of my favorite races - running and volunteering is the perfect way to start the day. I love that I get to share part of Thanksgiving with my running family... and get my run in before I eat my weight in mashed potatoes and stuffing. It's also a great way to give back to our community, as SRR donates tens of thousands of dollars raised by the Gobble to local Somerville charities each year. I am always grateful for the hard work of the committee and our volunteers, without whom this would not be possible.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone out there. In the meantime, happy running!

The Warm Up

Announcements

1. Scottoberfest will be held 11/11. It's a 11ish (or 5ish, if you'd rather) mile trail run followed by a cookout at Scott and Julie's house in Arlington. Signup sheet is here: https://docs.google.com/…/1DW4H3L6YIghlVajDpf9TBuxsn6J…/edit

2. Indoor track will be held at MIT once again this year (tentatively scheduled for 11/6). Despite efforts to secure an earlier time, it looks like we will have the 8:30pm slot on Tuesdays through the winter. 

3. Due to schedule conflicts, Coach Rick Muhr is no longer able to provide coaching support for our club. We wish Rick well, and thank him for his service to the club over the past several months. We are working on providing additional long-term coaching support for Coach Joe moving forward and will announce details when we have a plan in place.

4.  It's already time to start thinking ahead to the annual SRR post-holiday party & awards banquet, and we need a couple more party people to join the planning committee. If you love throwing a great bash, it's a fun way to get involved (just ask Liza and Erin)! Message Julie at president at srr.org if you want to help out.

5. If you haven't seen it already, check out the newly renovated SRR website at  www.srr.org! Huge shout-out to Webmaster Sara Radkiewicz for her hard work in making this happen! 

6. Keep an eye out for your annual member survey, coming to your inbox this fall. The member experience survey provides valuable information and input to the SRR Board of Directors and helps guide our decisions regarding programming and budgeting, so it's important to fill it out when you get it. The board thanks you in advance!

7. As always, if you want to stay in touch on the latest club happenings or find out ways to become involved, talk to a board member or go to a monthly board meeting.  Details are found here. https://www.srr.org/srr-meetings-1/

8. This fall's kids program is in full swing.  The program will culminate with the Team Chase 6th Annual 5K for Autism Speaks & Somerville Special Education on Sunday, 11/18.  Pacers may be needed.  If you're interested in running and supporting one of our youth athletes, contact kids@srr.org 

9. Volunteers are needed for the Gobble Gobble Gobble on Thanksgiving Day. You can run and volunteer - just look for the runner-specific assignments. If you're not planning on running, you can be a superhero volunteer. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/MA/Somerville/GobbleGobbleGobble

Somerville Road Runners' Community Day

When: November 17, 9am - 1pm
Where: East Somerville Community School, 50 Cross Street, Somerville, MA

Join the Somerville Road Runners on Saturday November 17th for fun & interesting running & wellness workshops & demonstrations, raffles, runs with the Somerville Road Runners & MORE! We have activities geared for kids, adults, and the whole family, Come learn more about running & wellness in your local community with the Somerville Road Runners.

There will be runs with SRR members, workshops on nutrition, creating a race day strategy for runners every level, intro to trail running, Chi running, Vo2 max and gait analysis sessions, how to feel comfortable attending track practices, injury prevention and strong running with yoga and strength work, and so much more! Many local community partners will be present.

The Starting Line

Volunteer Turkeys from 2015 Gobble Gobble Gobble
Photo by Pensri Pilotte

Gobble Gobble Gobble – A Turkey Day Tradition

Bradley Harris, Race Director

On Thanksgiving Day in 1997, just fewer than 250 runners lined up for a 5K in Somerville. The first Gobble Gobble Gobble was, in many ways, at the dawn of the modern era of road racing. Thanks to automated timing technology and the internet we know all of the finishers and their performances. In many other ways it was a race run in a different age. There is no readily available photo of every finisher;  there were no t-shirts or medals; and there is no clear record of exactly what the first course was. 

Running and racing has changed a ton in the more than 20 years since that first year of the Gobble. Runners have their pick of races on any given weekend. Races offer a bounty of amenities from amazing gear to legendary post-race parties. Thanks to GPS technology many runners have access to a complete record of every step of every race (and every training run on the way to the start line). 

The “Gobble” has grown and changed in the intervening years as well. The race has grown more than tenfold. This year, over 3000 runners will pack onto Holland Street for the start. At some point the course changed from a 5K to the – now classic – 4 mile tour of Somerville. A post-race party was added at the Burren (and recently added an outdoor beer garden to increase capacity!) so runners can take a few more moments to relive their glory before heading home to the feast. The t-shirt has become an important and eagerly anticipated part of the annual race tradition.

Moving forward and changing with the times has been crucial to the success and growth of the Gobble. Equally important though is maintaining a connection to the racers back in 1997 who had enjoyed a run on the quiet streets of Thanksgiving morning. The t-shirts are proudly cotton; the post-race party is pleasantly low key; and, the entry fee is among the lowest around. The thing that keeps runners returning year after year (and the reason we keep organizing it) is the unique opportunity to focus on enjoying the company of friends, family, and a few thousand other friends you haven’t met yet. 

Join us this year on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2018  https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Somerville/GobbleGobbleGobble

The Run for the Bricks: Mill Cities Relay 

Brian Cullinan, Mill Cities Committee

As you've probably heard me plugging at track for the last two months, we've got the 35th Annual Mill Cities Relay coming up on Sunday, December 2nd.  

The Mill Cities Relay is a truly unique event where we compete across all divisions, as one club.  Think of it as both the club championship for Eastern Mass./ Southern N.H. and the end of the racing year celebration rolled into one.  In additional to being a cornerstone of New England running it is fun, social, and free to you as an SRR member (courtesy of the SRR Board).  In my opinion, it's one of the highlights of the race calendar with a great after party to celebrate with your teammates.  We are encouraging as many SRR members as possible to sign up for this race, it's really a great way to connect with SRR members.

The relay itself is a 5 person, 27 mile relay from Nashua NH to Lawrence MA, with legs from 2.5 to 9.5 miles. We usually enter nearly 30 teams and we are always a top club finisher (2nd or 3rd) and also win some age group awards every year (the coveted bricks – yes the awards are bricks). The club chooses most of the team rosters based upon current 5K times, and we try to balance the teams to maximize the number of team points across all categories.

To sign up to run and/or volunteer, simply fill out the form at this link by Tuesday, 11/13 and we will announce teams on Thanksgiving Weekend. 

Sign-up form:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflDEXxl9tBWQiRdLD24udKrecrfqPk3w1aZ4JSaVeiRKI01w/viewform?usp=sf_link

Other Races

November 11th, 2018 – Somerville Honor Run in Davis Square - https://www.cambridge5k.com/honor

November 18th, 2018 – Cambridgeside 10k Classic in East Cambridge - https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Cambridge/CambridgeSide10KClassic

December 9th, 2018 – Yulefest 5k (and first race of the 2019 SRR Grand Prix) in Harvard Square - https://www.cambridge5k.com/yulefest

Weekly Miles

Bur-Run Monday Night Run

Burren, 247 Elm Street, Somerville, Mondays 6:45 pm

We’re still getting stewed at the BurRun every Monday night!  Just this September was the 10th Anniversary.  For those of us who were there for the first one, it was crazy that the little run that could reach double digits.  Just this week the BurRun hosted BooRun VIII, our annual costume run with a couple of adult beverage stops en route.

You can join us every Monday at 6:45 for a 3.1 mile run through the streets of Somerville.  Hang out afterwards, buy a pint and partake of the complimentary Beef Stew and/or vegetarian option.  SRR loves to meet new people and deepen our connections with the local running community.

Casey's Thursday Night Run

Casey's Tavern, 171 Broadway, Somerville, Thursdays 7:00pm

SRR’s weekly Thursday night run out of Casey’s Tavern in East Somerville continues its streak of 23 years and counting. During the past several months we’ve welcomed beginning runners, new members and out-of-town visitors to run with us for the 4.06 miles.

As always, we held a summer streak contest to see who could attend the most Thursday night runs during the summer. Sean Finn ran away from the competition by attending all 13 runs during the contest. In August we held our second annual kids run and ice cream social. September featured the annual old school Khoury’s course run. We also held two cook-offs featuring barbecue sides and dips. Come enjoy our friendly group runs and free pizza every Thursday at 7pm!

Intervals

SRR in the Windy City: Chicago Marathon

Chris K, Robert C, Liz, Jesse, Brendan C, John Longo, Kieran, Pickel at the Chicago Marathon After Party
photo courtesy of John Longo

Jesse Morrow, Marketing Coordinator

In the great tradition of Somerville Road Runners, each SRR finishing – whether it was Chris Klucznik who came in 116th or Heather who ran in more than five hours – was given equal congratulations from their club members.

Five hours before I was congratulated, Brendan and I had made our way to the dark lakeshore. The misty grey rolled in off Lake Michigan.  Interspersed with the mist would be occasional rain.  For those of us who had run Boston in April, this was but a sprinkle.  

Somerville Road Runners invaded the rainy course.  Two dozen SRRs were listed on Joe O’Leary’s tracking list.  In the morning we found each other at various corrals and tents.  In the Balbo tent, Paula Radcliffe gave a send-off to all the runners: “Trust your training and don’t go out too fast.”  (I for one, sadly, didn’t heed that advice.)

Megan Prokop and Florentien de Ruiter in Grant Park
photo courtesy of Florentien de Ruiter

At the sharp edge of the SRR spear, Chris Klucznik, Kieran Condon, Joe Lauer, Patrick Luckow and John Scott all had big PR’s.  Meanwhile Robert “The Machine” Cipriano won his age group.  (For those keeping score at home, Robert has now won his age group in 2 of the 6 Marathon Majors).

In other victories: Megan Prokop finished her Ezra comeback with a great race; Victor Gonzalez was the fastest of the three registered Victor Gonzalezes; Henry Wu ran his very first marathon; and, Cindy Dunn continued SRR’s tradition of supporting Chicago Paws by running for that charity.

Cindy's Cat - Quicksilver - with her Chicago Marathon and Team Paw medals
photo by Cindy Dunn

SRR in the Spindle City: Baystate Marathon

From top left clockwise:
Kate Daniel, Issac Burleigh, Øystein, Simon Anderson, Carrie-Anne Dedeo, Patrick Haneberg, Sarah Bolt-Culla, Dennis Shay, Paulo Amaral (center)

Crisp weather reminded us that it was early autumn in New England.  The tree colors turning reds and oranges reflected off the Merrimack.  If you looked hard, you could see the golden singlets of a dozen SRR runners reflecting as well.

A mass of SRR spectators greeted our runners at the Rourke Bridge.  Victor’s over-cheering helped Øystein push on to a half marathon PR.  Kate Daniel barely missed improving on her half PR by only 16 seconds.

On the full side, we saw as the men’s team tore the course up, Issac Burleigh had a PR, Paul Amaral had a PR, and Patrick Heneberg finished a tough race with a 2:43.  The three of them led the team to 4th place overall.

The women placed in 4th with Sarah Bolt-Culla running a PR 3:19, Carrie-Anne Dedeo and Sarah Poplawski both turning in big 5 minute+ BQs.  

Dennis Shay also had a big PR.  Tom Bok and Simon Anderson pulled in with Boston Qualifiers as well.

As usual, SRR also was representing in the pace groups: Scot DeDeo, Tom Breider, Nat Farny, Deb Downs and Nichole Bukowski were all seen out on the course carrying time signs in bright orange shirts.

Fartleks

Race to the Row
August 26th was our 6th Annual Race to the Row in Assembly Row, Somerville
Above: race director Scott Abrams receives $2000 toward our recognized charities from Assembly Row/Federal Reality.
Since 2013, Somerville Road Runners has raised over $20,000 for East Somerville Main Streets and Somerville Track PAC through Race to the Row.
photo by Paul Nelson

SRR Volunteers
In October, SRR continued its long tradition of volunteering at the finish line of the BAA Half Marathon
above: some of our many volunteers who distributed medals to the finishers
If you want to volunteer with us this year, you still can.  We are always looking for volunteers for our Thanksgiving morning Gobble Gobble Gobble.
Volunteer registration here - https://runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/MA/Somerville/GobbleGobbleGobble?remMeAttempt=

Tune into Antunes
In September, Chris Antunes set the club record for the 5k with a 15:29 at the Downtown 5k in Providence.
But he wasn't done yet.  Two weeks later at Lone Gull in Gloucester, Chris set the club's 10k record with a 32:10!
It's a 15 day stretch that will forever go down in the annals of the Black and Gold.

Wedding Bells
On October 13, Team RyBri made it legal;
Brian Ketterer and Ryan Doherty were married in Portland, ME.
As they celebrate their honeymoon in Hawaii, SRR gives them their warmest congrats. 

SRR Runs Cascades
In July, a large group of SRR runners competed in the Jack and Jill Marathon and Half, in Snoqualmie Falls, WA. 
Melissa and Brian each took second place in their age groups.
In August, at the Tunnel Vision Marathon (over the same course), Dominic Shulz qualified for the Boston Marathon!

Remember that Time?
Photo from the Vault - October, 2011 (before Marielle and Greta).
Lino Mancini and Jim Moberg handing off at the Mount Desert Island Relay
The two of them, Boozing for a Cruising, would go on to win the relay! 

Somerville Road Cyclists?
In June, many SRR members took on the annual Battlefield to Vermont Gran Fondo.
Rory and Patrick placed 2nd and 3rd in their age groups
Dave and Joe also rode the full 149 mile route
Jesse and Brian rode the "short" 113 mile Iron Distance route

First Time's a Charm
In October, SRR's Jenny Brown ran her first marathon.
At the Cape Cod Marathon in Falmouth, Jenny beat her goal pace in her first (maybe only?) marathon.

Rest Day

Sprichwörter: Words of Wisdom

Eva Kopf-Ridout, SRR's Official German-English translator

There comes a time in a runner’s life when you reach your limits. It can be an injury, not being able to hit any more PRs, slowing down having a baby, or another life event. We’ve all been there. So today, I’ll leave you with a few words of wisdom hailing from my native country of Germany. Be inspired, take a moment to reflect about this wonderful sport of ours, and keep on running!

Geteiltes Leid ist halbes Leid.

Shared misery is half the misery. If you’re struggling, find someone who is going through something similar. It makes it so much easier. When I was dealing with a foot injury training for my first Boston in 2014, I bonded with Urvi, who had a similar foot problem. We both ended up running the marathon, and the road to get there was rough, but being able to share the pain made it only half as bad.  

Aller Anfang ist schwer.

All beginnings are hard. When we are set back from running, starting all over again is tough. Tabula rasa, a blank slate! I felt like that when I started running again after childbirth. Rather than being intimidated or discouraged, take a moment to reflect and see this as an opportunity for a fresh start.

Übung macht den Meister.

Practice makes perfect (exercise makes the master). Seems obvious but it’s true! The important lesson here for running is to start slowly. If you overdo it, you’ll be thrown back and will have to start all over again. Take it easy initially and be consistent, it will pay off later. I ran my best races going to track every single week.

Zeit heilt alle Wunden.

Time heals all wounds. Injuries suck and no matter what derailed your running, recovering is not easy. The human body, however, is a miraculous machine that will eventually bounce back. It might take longer than you expect but it will happen. Be patient.  

Man muss die Dinge nehmen, wie sie kommen.

You must take things as they come. Everyone is different, and every situation comes with its own challenges, so make the best out of it. My body now feels back to normal, but I had to adjust often as I went through my recovery. This journey has made me more grateful than ever for every mile and race I get to run. Run with gratitude and run in the moment!

Geteiltes Leid ist halbes Leid with Liz Cooney at the Gobble last year. I had to call it quits a month earlier due to back pain related to pregnancy but decided to give it another try that day since I was signed up. From what I remember, Liz had been struggling with a recent injury. Thanks for running with me, Liz!

Book Review

Urvi Mujumdar, President-emeritus

Strong: A Runner's Guide to Boosting Confidence and Becoming the Best Version of You 

Kara Goucher

Blue Star Press (2018) 

208 Pages

ISBN-13: 978-1944515591

✪✪✪✪✪ [5 stars]

I decided to buy this book when it appeared on an Instagram post.  I've always admired Kara Goucher as a role model for female athletes, but admittedly I didn't know much about her story.  The book, a quick read, surprised me because she wrote in a style that was both inspirational and relevant.  Goucher shares her own personal challenges and doubts, and a host of training tools from the field of sport psychology.  A training tool she suggests for runners of all abilities is to keep a confidence journal.  Runners tend to focus on the negative aspects of a workout or race ("I didn't have it in me"..."the weather destroyed me"..."Couldn't get myself out the door" etc).  Goucher suggests taking the time to focus on something positive, with the goal of building confidence.  

I like this excerpt: "Running is a head game.  When you're running, there are two options: let your mind wander or focus.  To compete, you must focus.  Every step, breath, and muscle movement matters for 26.2 miles.  When your body is being pushed to the max, it's easy to let your mind go to a dark place..."

Off Roading

Doug Lipinski, Chief Trailrunning Officer

This may be the Somerville Road Runners, but some of us hit the trails too. This summer many of our members ran or raced on the trails. Here’s a quick sampling of a few trail runs we did.


Pemigewasset Loop

 

The summer of 2018 was a popular year for SRR members to run the Pemi Loop. This is one of the Northeast’s classic White Mountain long hikes. At around 30 miles and over 9,000 feet of climbing most people will do this loop as a multi-day trip, but we’re obviously not like most people. In three separate trips, Scot DeDeo, Doug Lipinski, Patrick Haneberg, and Matt Kiesz all did the Pemi Loop this summer. The weather was warm and humid, the trails were full of rocks, roots, mud, and water, and the route was long, but the views and the wilderness were worth it.

North Face Endurance Challenge

For the second straight year, Cheng-Chih Yang, Chi-Heng Wang, and Hsien-Chung Tseng ran the North Face Endurance Challenge on Mt. Wachusett. The race was rocky and challenging, but they all finished in good spirits. Rich Matthews joined them for his first 50k; while, Scot DeDeo ran the 50 miler.

Vulcan’s Fury Trail Race

Chris Smith ran the Vulcan’s Fury trail race on October 13th in New Hampshire’s Pawtuckaway State Park. The 13 mile long course features lots of climbing and descent on technical single track. Chris had a great showing, finishing third in his age group and just 21 minutes behind the race winner. 

Wildcat-Carters-Moriah Traverse

Also on October 13th, Scot DeDeo and Doug Lipinski ran a traverse of the Wildcat-Carter-Moriah range. Running is hard to come by on this route with continuous rocks, wet leaves, roots, and mud that add even more difficulty to a route with 8,000 feet of climbing over 19 miles. This includes an extra 1400 feet of climbing gained by doing the route from north to south. This is a point-to-point route so Scot and Doug ended the day by biking the 15 miles downhill on the road back to the car at the starting point. 

You can find Scot’s write up here – (The Multisport Maniac: Moriah Carters Wildcat Traverse)

 

Taper Time

Deb Takes on the Big Apple (with Some Michelob Ultra in Tow)

Deb Downs, Boston 2017
photo by Kimi MacDonald

Deb Downs, Running Hero

Back in July I entered an essay contest for a spot on Michelob Ultra’s NYC marathon team coached by Shalane Flanagan. I had to write about running and beer. With a little time and research, I can do this, I thought. I had discovered my love for this straight-up beer flavored beer the summer before. It brought me back to my Bud Heavy days only with fewer calories and total drinkability. And then there’s Shalane. She’s my modern day Jon Bon Jovi - a rock star and culinary hero. 

I figured it was a shot in the dark, but I soon found myself jumping up and down in my office after learning I was selected. Michelob Ultra is covering the cost of everything and hooking us up with the NYRR VIP experience. Pretty sweet.

Deb Downs, enjoying a Mic Ultra on Bastille Day, 2018
photo by Jesse Morrow

My journey to the start line has included hours and hours of stretching and exercises to overcome an injury known as Disastrous Gait Syndrome (GDS). Years of bad posture, my entry into the master’s (aka you will be in knots constantly) category, and complete ignorance about compensating patterns resulting from last year’s broken toe, had left me in a bad place. I gimped my way through Boston and still struggled to run pain free through August. Slowly, with the help of many awesome resources, it began to click. I’ve been fortunate to have a great build-up over the past couple of months and I’m psyched to be toeing the line on 11/4. Injuries are torturous, but can be a gift. I’ve learned a ton.

So, the hay is in the barn. Here are my goals:

A – Meet Shalane at the post-party

B – Break 3:00 hours

C – Talk to the heroically supportive and dedicated craft beer enthusiast, Steve, about something other than Michelob Ultra, workouts, and Shalane food…for at least one week.

D – All of the above

Next Stop, Verrazano!

Deb will not be the only member of SRR crossing the Verrazano this weekend.  

Good luck to:

• Kyle Pochini 
• Molly Crellin
• Amie Gauthier
• Cheng-Chih Yang
• Nat Farny
• Chi-Heng Wang
• Ed Porto 
• Christine Aloise

As Deb says: "Let's get it, team!"

Member Spotlight

Hsien-Chung Tseng

Hsien taking SRR international at the Berlin Marathon

How long have you been running and a part of SRR? 

I have been running since I came to US in 2006 for graduate school at MIT, and have been a SRR Member since December 2015. I remembered it was 3 weeks after my first overseas marathon - Taroko Gorge Marathon - in the world-renowned Taroko National Park located in my hometown Hualien, Taiwan. My very first club event was the Casey’s run.

Where are you from?

I was born in Hualien, Taiwan. I have lived in Cambridge/Somerville ever since I came to US in 2006. So I consider Cambridge/Somerville as my second hometown.

Fave race and why

It is definitely the one and only “Boston Marathon”. I watch Boston Marathon every year in the past decade, and have the Boston Marathon dream as every runner has. I was very grateful to receive one of the 10 SRR invitational bibs in 2017. It was truly a blast!

Most unusual thing seen on a run

I guess I have short-term memories. The only unusual thing I could remember is seeing tons of bird poop dropping around me while I am running, and (thank god!) none of it hit me.

Recent PR or race accomplishment

Collected 4 Marathon Majors so far. No luck with London and Tokyo. 

Why do you love being a part of SRR? 

Such a great community! I enjoyed Monday Bur-run (beef stew, yum yum…), Tuesday track, Thursday Casey’s run, and the annual Mill Cities Relay. I also appreciated SRR provides us the opportunity to volunteer at the BAA 10K, BAA Half and BAA Boston Marathon where you could see elite runners!

Hsien at the BAA 10k, handing water to a Boston and New York Marathon Champion - nbd.

Would you recommend joining SRR to your friends, and if so, why?

Of course! Great people, nice community, and delicious (free) food!

Running shoe of choice 

ASICS Nimbus and HOKA Clifton

What is something that your teammates might not know about you? 

In my first year of my PhD, a casting director saw me in the Muddy Charles Pub at MIT, and asked me If I am interested in auditioning for “Beauty and the Geek” TV show. Hmm, did he want me to be the Beauty or the Geek? 

Running Maxims

“Some days it just flows and I feel like I’m born to do this, other days it feels like I’m trudging through hell. Every day I make the choice to show up and see what I’ve got, and to try and be better.”

~Des Linden, 2018 Boston Marathon Champion

The Conqueror - Late Winter/Early Spring 2018

The Winter 2018 Edition of the Conqueror was compiled and edited by Urvi Mujumdar and Carrie-Anne DeDeo. Special contributions from Shane McNally, Tina Mack, Julie Holt, Jesse Morrow, Nichole Bukowski, and Brian LaValle, as well as many words of wisdom from the peanut gallery in our Boston Marathon feature. Interested in contributing to the next edition? Send an email to marketing@srr.org.

President’s Corner 
Happy Spring, I think. Is it here yet? I can't tell for sure. This winter was full of exciting achievements, awards and PRs (and lots of hardware), saw the addition of new coach Rick Muhr to the team, and included another year in the books for the Gobble, An Ras Mor and of course the Wintah Challenge. Still, I think most of us are ready for milder weather and the arrival of the day around which the running calendar revolves: Marathon Monday.

It is no secret that Marathon Monday is my favorite day of the year, and I am enjoying the buildup to "runner Christmas." I love how our team comes together for our pre-marathon events, I love the adrenaline of our cheer zone at the 30k, and most of all I love the spirit of camaraderie and excitement that the marathon brings. 

In this issue of The Conqueror we have included advice and tips from you all to our Boston Marathoners, and I'll include mine here: my number one recommendation is enjoy the race and take it all in. Boston is unlike any other marathon in the world. Most people will never get the opportunity to have this experience, so make the most of yours! I have so many incredible memories from race day 2015, not the least of which is rounding the bend and seeing the SRR tent at the 30k mark, but my favorite moment was coming up out of the Comm Ave tunnel and realizing that I was about to make the famed right on Hereford, left on Boylston. I still well up thinking about that moment and the last stretch along Boylston Street, where I actually wanted time to slow down so I could savor every painful, wonderful step. Everything after I crossed the finish line is a blur, but I'm glad I took the time to take everything in during the last few minutes of my race.

Whether you're running, volunteering, or spectating, have a fantastic Marathon Monday. Happy Running!

- Julie Holt, President

Announcements

Congratulations to the 2018-2019 Board of Directors:
President: Julie Holt
Vice President: Nichole Bukowski
Treasurer: Brian Tinger
Secretary: Melissa Glotzbecker
Members at Large: Irene Lanois and Jason Lachapelle

As their first order of business, the incoming Board approved the following appointed coordinators:
Volunteer Coordinators: Liza Neustaetter and Jenny Brown
Membership Coordinator: Dennis Shay
Welcome Wagon: Kari Lavin
Marketing Coordinator: Jesse Morrow
Long Run Coordinators: Deb Downs and Scot DeDeo
Casey's Coordinators: Irene Lanois and Doug Lipinski
Webmaster: Sara Radkiewicz 

SRR welcomes Coach Rick Muir! Rick has been a runner for 43 years and a running coach for 22 years. He has had the honor and privilege of coaching over 10,000 runners to the completion of their first marathons. The following are several of his personal best times:

100K: 8:41:17 (finished fifth in the national championships)
Marathon: 2:33:13
Half-marathon: 1:12:12
10K: 32:25
5K: 16:05

Rick says, "I am extremely excited to join the SRR family of runners. I am looking forward to sharing my running and coaching experience to help others realize their potential and become lifelong runners. I also look forward to learning from the collective experience of everyone at SRR in my pursuit of being the best possible runner and coach!" 

Coach Rick had the special experience of appearing on a panel with Meb Keflezighi in Austin, TX.
(Photo courtesy of Rick Muhr.)

Get ready for the next season of SRR Kids! Co-coordinator Shane McNally shares five reasons you should consider getting involved:

1. Free pizza and 5K! If you volunteer with the Kids Program, you’ll have a great time hanging out with a terrific crew of coaches and coordinators. A team in every sense of the word, we support everyone’s achievements, from the kindergartener running her first mile to the coach aiming for a marathon PR. And after we run a 5K together, we all celebrate with a pizza party!

2. Volunteer and have fun! Looking to get more involved with the club and gain meaningful volunteer experience? Coaching involves a commitment of an hour each week and a 5K at the end of the program. Not available every Wednesday? We’d love the additional help on weeks that you’re free. Or consider pacing a kid at for the end-of-season race. 

3. Share your knowledge and gain coaching experience. As an avid runner, you’ve learned a lot about this wonderful sport. Consider passing this knowledge on to a young person just starting out running. Past coaching experience is not required; your own experience as a runner is sufficient to benefit the kids in the program.

4. Be a kid again! You may be a very respectable doctor, lawyer, or computer programmer during the day, but at SRR Kids, you’ll get the chance to hop like a bunny and play tag like a five year old. 

5. Make a difference! The SRR Kids Program offers you a chance to connect with kids and make a positive difference in their lives. By getting involved with SRR Kids, you’ll help to combat forces like excess screen time and promote a healthy lifestyle. If you want to pass your love of running onto a new generation, join us!

The SRR Kids Program began this spring on Wednesday, March 28, and will run until Saturday, May 19. Practices take place on Wednesdays from 6:15-7:15pm at the Tufts outdoor track. The season ends with a 5K in which kids run with adult pacers. Coordinators Shane and Darren are always looking for coaches to help out. Email kids@srr.org for more information. 

Fun with SRR Kids. (Photo courtesy of Shane McNally.)

Upcoming SRR volunteer opportunities:
Marathon Monday Cheer Zone & Elite Water Stop - Saturday, April 14, through Monday, April 16

Check out our weekly runs--Monday night’s Bur-run and Casey’s on Thursdays:

• Seth Maleri reports from the Bur-run: “Come out on Monday night for a 5K and food afterward. The Burren has a new and improved beer list. Love, Seth.” 
• Check out the following link to sign up to help out with timing or for upcoming events at our Thursday night weekly run held out of Casey’s Pub in East Somerville.

Become an SRR Ambassador & Share What You Love:
Joining a new community can be intimidating. Sometimes you need someone to ease your fears and make you feel welcome. SRR is launching a brand-new Ambassador Program to support new club members by giving them someone to talk to, ask questions of, and establish a connection with. 

As a club ambassador, you will be given a special t-shirt to wear once a month to a weekly run (the Bur-run, track, or Casey’s) or to one of our races or other events. You will introduce yourself to the community during pre-run announcements, so that people know you are the one to go to with questions and for more information.

This is a great opportunity to support SRR and the community by continuing to do what you already do--run and have fun! If you are a regular Bur-run, track, or Casey’s participant and enjoy helping people to learn more about SRR, please join this new initiative!

We will be kicking the program off after the Boston Marathon. This new program will also count toward volunteer points, which we use as one criterion in selecting recipients of Boston Marathon invitational numbers.

To express your interest, please fill out this Google Form for Community Ambassadors. If you have any additional questions, contact SRR VP Nichole Bukowski at Nichole.Bukowski@gmail.com. 

Want to Become A More Resilient Runner? 
Our club VP Nichole Bukowski is leading a workshop in Waltham on Sunday, April 8. This workshop is geared for runners of every ability and will help you to feel and perform better! Nichole will teach you how to develop greater physical and mental resilience to up your game and keep you doing what you love with more strength, confidence, and ease.

The workshop will address how, when, and why to incorporate strengthening postures, myo-fasical release, deeper stretches, breathing exercises, and mindset strategies in order to make you more efficient and conditioned in body and mind. During the class, you will be guided through yoga strength and mobility postures and breathing exercises for efficient oxygen intake and carbon dioxide release--resulting in more energy and stamina--as well as mindset preparation exercises to give you the mental edge and post-exercise stretching and rolling routines to maximize the impact of each workout.

Nichole has a rich history of competing in sports and teaching fitness classes. She has completed 22 marathons and is currently training for her 14th Boston Marathon. She finished an IronMan this past fall and played on a Division 1 field hockey scholarship for the Boston College Eagles. She believes the true game-changer that fuels her and continues to ignite the fire of the human spirit within her is a balanced routine of self-care strategies that extend beyond the miles she puts in hitting the pavement, trails, and treadmills. 

Come learn how to become a more resilient athlete, mover, and human being.

April 8, 1-3pm
$35 (workshops are non-refundable)
To sign up, visit either of the following: 

http://www.chakrapoweryoga.com/workshops-events/
https://www.facebook.com/events/1190855211016970/

(Photo courtesy of Nichole Bukowski. Photo credit: Lucie Wicker Photography.)

Merchandise Update:
Laura Buso reports that buffs are in. They’re $15 each, and they’re a limited run, available from the SRR online store. 

Special Feature: SRR Runs Boston!

Congrats again to SRR’s ten invitational runners! Find out more about them in our weekly Facebook posts. This year’s invitational runners are:

Mary Booras
Charoma Blyden
Molly Crellin
Ryan Doherty
Chris Lupien
Andy Marinelli
Liza Neustaetter
Sara Radkiewicz
Leevi Raassina 
Dennis Shay

Everything You Need to Know for the Boston Marathon (from marathon coordinator Tina Mack):

Planning is underway for this year's Boston Marathon, taking place on Patriots’ Day, Monday, April 16. Please make sure your membership is up to date at www.srr.org. Some perks require six or more months of club membership.  Please let Tina know if you have any questions! (You can reach her at tktobey@gmail.com.)

Course Long Run
The Boston Marathon course long run was a success on Saturday, March 24. Thank you to all drivers and volunteers.

SRR Sean Collier Memorial Run & Pre-Marathon Pasta Dinner
The Sean Collier Memorial Run & Pre-Marathon Pasta Dinner will be held on Thursday, April 12, at Casey's in East Somerville. Runners will leave the bar just after 7pm to run the 4-mile Casey's course. After the run, we’ll come back to the bar for a pasta dinner celebration. We will also be collecting funds for the Sean Collier Scholarship Fund.

SRR Party Bus - BIG CHANGES HERE!
The party starts later!!! In a bold move, the BAA has pushed back our Party Bus arrival time. The SRR Party Bus will leave the Assembly Square T Station at 7:45am. No more early wake-ups! 

If you are parking at Assembly, please use the paid MBTA parking lot. The non-MBTA lots at Assembly will tow cars left over three hours. The Party Bus price is $30 (signup). The bus will wait in the Athletes’ Village, so you will have a comfortable place to sit before your start time. There is a bathroom on board the bus. There is no bag check at the start of the marathon. Anything you take on the bus you will have to discard or carry during your run. 

On marathon day, Tina will meet the bus to check everyone in and to pick up any personal items (wallets, phones, etc.) that need to be taken to the Post-Marathon Hospitality Suite.  

SRR Post-Marathon Hospitality Suite
We have a room reserved at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, a short walk from the finish line at 50 Park Plaza, Boston, for you to clean up and catch up after the race. The room will be stocked with post-race food and friends. Tina will be in touch in April with detailed instructions about the hotel and information about bag collection for the room. This perk is available to SRR members (of six-plus months) only.

SRR Elite Water Stop & Cheer Zone
The SRR Elite Water Stop Team will be providing an elite-style water stop for SRR members at the 30K mark. Need to pick up a specific kind of gel, feel like changing your socks after 18 miles, or just want a hug before Heartbreak Hill?  Carrie-Anne, Urvi, and the whole SRR crew will be there for you! You pack up and label your snacks, and Urvi and C-A will make sure you have just what you need to finish the race strong. They will be in touch in April with collection times and locations. Here is the form for runners to sign up in advance with bib numbers, special requests for the cheer zone, and so on. Volunteers can sign up here.

Also located at the 30K, the Cheer Zone is where all the cool kids hang out on marathon day! The Cheer Zone is open to SRR members, families, friends, and non-members. Really, it is just a big SRR party. MORE COWBELL! 

SRR Post-marathon PARRRRRRTTTAAAYYYYYY!
Head to the Burren in Davis Square at 5pm on Marathon Monday to have a pint, scarf some munchies, and talk split times, chafing, and race-day weather. Sign up here if you plan to attend.

We’re looking forward to seeing everyone on Marathon Monday. Good luck with your training! Still have questions? Email tktobey@gmail.com

Advice and Motivation for the Boston Marathon
We asked the peanut gallery for any and all tips, tricks, and motivation for the Boston Marathon Class of ’18 and for those doing other spring marathons. Here’s what we heard from the SRR community! Thank you to those who contributed.

Ryan Doherty:
On Marathon Monday, I am looking forward to the entire experience, from the bus ride to Hopkinton to the crowded start to the epic finish--and everything in between. Since this is my first marathon, I'm excited to see if/how all this insane training actually works! At this point, my motivation is just proving to myself that I can actually do it. (There have been days in training when I doubt myself!)

Kieran Condon: 
I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who volunteers at the 30K mark. I have done Boston the last six years, and through good years and bad years, this location has always inspired me. Even when I have been walking a lot of the back half, I always run through here! This is one of the things that I think makes the club special to me. Look forward to seeing you all again on April 16! Here is hoping it is not too warm…

Kimi Macdonald:
Everyone dreads the Newton Hills but expects them to start after the Mile 18 firehouse. But the first one is over I-95 as soon as you go through Newton Lower Falls. Be smart about that one so you don't burn out before 18 like I always do! If you're having a bad day, don't be a Scrooge, and be sure to soak up the experience--high-five ALL the kids, drink the beer (remember: unopened cans), smile for the cameras, help another runner. You won't always have the opportunity to be on that side of the barriers on Marathon Monday. <3  

There's always some drunk college kid at BC (or BU, let's be honest) wearing a horse mask giving out beer to the runners. Speaking from experience, TAKE AN UNOPENED CAN, NOT A RED SOLO CUP--for your own safety! Breathe deeply before you run past the VFW in Natick. So much cigar smoke ;)

Brian LaValle:
My advice for any first timer? Slow it down, breathe, and find your natural pace. Don’t look at your watch too much, and try to savor the experience. Think of just getting to the SRR tent. The shot of adrenaline from the SRR cheering section will give you the strength you need to keep those legs moving to the finish. 

Warning: This advice is the EXACT OPPOSITE OF WHAT A COACH WILL TELL YOU TO DO!!! My advice for seasoned marathoners? If the weather is good, go out fast and hold on! You’re gonna hit the wall at some point, so you might as well have minutes in the bank to draw from. Just get to the SRR tent!

Bradley Harris:
No matter what happens on race day--performance of a lifetime, not what you planned, extended walking breaks, or ending your race before the finish line--always remember to hold your head high. You are in the goddamn Boston Marathon!

Scot DeDeo:
My favorite experience with the Boston Marathon begins with one mile to go as you run under the "Boston Strong" bridge. At this point, any pain you’re feeling becomes irrelevant, and the finish pulls you in. As you turn onto Boylston, the world stops. Take in the crowds, the other runners, and the sight of the finish line. You have done it. Running Boston is an accomplishment that no one can ever take away from you. Be proud of yourself.

Sara Saba-Sher:
The best advice I ever received was from Coach Joe. He told me that you shouldn't feel any pain at all the first 13 miles. It should just be pure fun--high-fiving the spectators, smiling, waving, etc. He said if you feel pain, then you need to slow down! That advice is dead-on, and I use it for every marathon. Also, draw strength from the crowd. Everyone in Boston loves Marathon Monday, and their excitement and fun is contagious! I like to think about the Red Sox playing downtown and all the great Boston sports teams!

Also, for me, the best approach is to treat the race like 26 mini mile races. I set a mile pace and try to hit it for each mile consistently. I use a regular Timex watch (I think Garmins are too much information for during a marathon) and hit lap after each mile. Then I only think about the mile I am in--not the previous miles, not the future miles, and not the overall time. I don't stress out tons about being off the pace for a mile or two; I just restart the race with the next mile. 

For the 2013 Boston Marathon, I was coming off a year-plus of injury. I had done a lot of cross training during that injury with Rachel Shanley. She got me to go to yoga, lifting classes, and boot camp much more than I ever would have on my own! Rachel also agreed to run to the SRR support table with me during the marathon (she had a marathon number, but was still injured, so she couldn't run the whole marathon--an uninjured Rachel is way faster than I will ever be!!!). We ran together, and I was feeling great! I was way ahead of my projected time, and Lee says while he was tracking me, he was freaking out that I would crash and crawl through the last few miles! Lee, my parents, and my aunt were sitting in the VIP bleachers at the finish line. Rachel stopped at the SRR table, and I was exhilarated passing my teammates and hearing their words of encouragement (hands down the best part of the Boston Marathon!). As I ran through the hills in Newton, I was feeling really strong and still way ahead of my projected pace. I was getting nervous that I would crash at some point but just went with it. All of a sudden, this man stepped out of the crowd. He was wearing a 1980s track suit (he looked like a character in Hot Tub Time Machine or something), and he made eye contact and pointed straight at me and said, "You’ve got this!" It was the weirdest sensation; I got tingles throughout my entire body, and I clearly remember thinking, "I do. I have this." I couldn't stop smiling. I picked up the pace even more and ended with a PR and a negative split. I saw Claudia and Lee at the finish, and I told them immediately, "I had an out-of-body experience during the marathon." They laughed and congratulated me, but it was a feeling, I will never forget. I had run about ten minutes faster than the years prior (which turned out to be a crucial ten minutes), and my parents and aunt left the bleachers immediately to meet me at a designated meeting spot. My dad didn't want to hang around, so we immediately left. While we were in the car in the parking garage, the bombs went off, and the rest is history. People think that I remember that out-of-body experience because of what happened after the marathon, but Claudia and Lee can vouch that I said it before anything bad happened. I do feel like I had the marathon I did to get my family away from the finish. I wish everyone had been so lucky that day. 

Good luck to the runners! Boston is an experience like no other! I can't wait to get back out there :)

Emma Kosciak:
This is a tough course, and most folks in fact do not run well here. (The stats are something like only 10% of BQers run a BQ time at Boston). This is, of course, with the exception of Deb Downs who for some reason completely owns Boston like a boss. So, don't be upset if your "goal time" doesn't happen. Trust me, you'll be in good company when you go back to the club and tell them your woes. (Joe is famous for saying he is only 1 for 9.) It happens to all of us. However, with the right mentality, it could still be the best race of your life--the hometown crowd, the history, make sure to SOAK IT IN! I started at a BQ time in 2013, but cramping got the better of me. My 16-year-old cousin jumped in to run a few miles with me (this was before the bombings of course), and with all the family and friends we saw along the way, we ended up having the time of our lives! Read the infamous blog of Jesse Morrow for some inspiration on how to handle that moment when everything you've trained for turns against you, and it turns into an amazing day after all. 

Urvi Mujumdar:
The experience of running or cheering Boston with SRR is unparalleled! Whether you’re at the pre-marathon events at the Bur-run or Casey’s, doing the final track workout (Lou Ristaino), shopping at the expo, cheering or receiving cheers at the 30K--it’s amazing and surreal. I want to give special shout outs to my hubby, Jesse Morrow, who always puts his doubts aside and gives it his all AND to my new training buddy, Ryan Doherty, who has lifted me up with her dedication and love for the sport. I wish them and the rest of the SRR crew a special Boston experience. I also want to take a moment to thank the board and SRR’s marathon coordinator, Tina Mack, and all the designees and volunteers for putting the whole SRR Boston experience together! It truly takes a village, and it’s a fun one!

Sarah Bolt:
Marathon day is long and stressful - and fun and exciting! - even before you get to the start line! Be mentally prepared for a long morning, stay calm and save your mental and physical energy as much as possible. Try not to let the stressed out runners around you stress you out even more! Go into the day with your own vision and goals and stick to it. Everyone will be chattering about their paces and strategies, but trust your own training and game plan!  


Victor Gonzalez:
Best piece of advice I can give all the first timers is to have a small disposable water bottle with you at the starting line of the race. The first few water stops are chaos, and when you come upon them,  all hell breaks loose, it's like the parting of the red sea. Everyone is running left and right to grab water, so the idea is as everyone runs outwardly, you as a runner with his/her own disposable bottle of water run to the center... it's amazing how clear the pathway becomes as everyone else is scrambling. The crowd starts to thin and the water stops start to clear up by mile 3 or so, so you just need a water bottle large enough to get you through the first few stops. Little 8 oz gatorade bottle will do the trick, doesn't haven't to be anything big or fancy. Good luck all of you! 

Mariah Tinger:
When you reach mile 11(ish) and the Wellesley scream tunnel (you’ll hear it coming!), go to the right for kisses or to the left so you don’t get trampled by those going for kisses! Either way, it’s a lot of fun! And you’ll know you are almost halfway done! Seeing teammates at the SRR 30K tent is another highlight--I yearn for those yellow and black balloons! The energy and enthusiasm from SRR will give you a boost, and the finish will be practically in sight. To quote an SRR great (Kevin Guarnotta), a marathon is a 10K with a 20 mile warmup. Throw down when you hit Mile 20! Know that it will probably hurt, but that you will find strength you didn’t know you had. The combo of these two makes the success of finishing taste even sweeter. Go get it!


Toe the Line - Upcoming Races

USATF Grand Prix
The USATF New England Grand Prix kicked off on March 18 with the New Bedford Half-Marathon, followed by the Nealon 15K two weeks later on March 31. SRR paid club members’ entries to the Nealon 15K (and one other USATF Grand Prix race) this season.
To be eligible for SRR paid entry for other races, you must be a current member of USATF with SRR declared as your USATF member club.  Also, consider doing 5 of the races to have SRR pay for your USATF membership next year. 
Here is the full USATF Grand Prix Schedule for 2018.

SRR Club Grand Prix 
We have currently completed three of ten races. Though there are seven more to go, you only need to finish six to make the final cut. Race #4 was the New Bedford Half Marathon, and Race #5 is James Joyce Ramble 10K, coming up on April 29. 

Here are the SRR Grand Prix Results through the first three races.

Race Recaps
Here are some highlights of what SRR members have been up to since our Fall Edition. 

An Ras Mor 5K - Sunday, March 25
An Ras Mor is SRR’s annual spring club-managed race. This year’s race took place on Sunday, March 25, in the heart of Cambridge. Zelus Beer provided some of their new beers for the finish line post-race party, Heartbreak Hill Running Company provided the race headquarters, and the new winter hats were a hit. 

As you know, our club’s race proceeds go directly back into the local community, so our races need your support to keep making this happen! The more support we can gain from the strong SRR community, the greater impact we are all able to have.
Our charitable giving goes to the Cambridge Rindge and Latin Track Team and the JLK Sanfilippo Foundation.

The An Ras Mor Committee would like to give a special shout out to Laura Buso, who recruited over 30 runners through marketing the race to her colleagues and a local charity she volunteers with.

The entire An Ras Mor Race Committee thanks you for your support and time. 


Congrats to the SRRs who took to New Bedford!
SRR had 11 men break 1:20 which has only happened once before in the club. PRs were set by Patrick Haneberg, Kyle Pochini, Brian Ketterer, Ryan Doherty, Liza Neustaetter, Sarah Canterman, John Longo, Brian Cullinan, Sarah Cullinan, Dennis Shay, and Dan Forward. Karen Encarnacion also took third in her age group! 


Martha’s Vineyard 20 Miler: Another Medal Hoard for the Black and Gold (by Jesse Morrow)
At the late-night Tuesday track session at MIT, Kieran was not overly optimistic on repeating his 2017 Martha’s Vineyard victory.  

Toledo Steve positioned himself up at Mile 4 to play SRR photographer before his annual pilgrimage to Offshore Brewing. As the first runners approached, the lead cyclist whipped around the corner and warned the detail officer: “Here comes the first runner; and, he’s hauling a**.” It was not Kieran.

In the annual trek to Vineyard Haven, the Runners did not require as much fortitudinem as usual. Saturday was a mild dry day, especially for the race that requests “No Weenies.” The mid-winter day was about the same temperature as the first day of spring. While the number of 20-miler finishers has decreased in the past few years, the new relay option saw 75 teams participate. Included in that total were Somerville’s own Runner Twins (Scott A. and Shark Tank) and the Sethcast Audience (President and former President, Julie and Urvi).

Sixteen miles after passing Steve, Kieran’s prediction turned out to be correct. A Michael Schroeder from the Tar Heel State had beaten him by three and a half minutes.  But Kieran still represented the Black and Gold by finishing in second overall and winning his age group.

Joining Kieran atop the Age Group podium were first-place winners Dennis Shay, Brian Culla and Deb Downs. Erin Morin, Carrie-Anne, Jesse, and Dirk also finished with places in their divisions. 

Later that evening, SRR congregated at Offshore Brewing to share battle stories. In all we had 15 runners and two relay teams spanning the gamut of our all-abilities club, from Kieran at second overall to Sethcast Maleri who came in 173rd. Each of us shared our respective victories over Beachnut Road Browns and Lazy Frog IPAs.

(Photo credit: Julie Holt)

Shout-out to Emma Kosciak who placed ninth in her age group and 17th overall at Xterra Trail Race World Championships in 2017.  

(Photo credit: Rod Azadan.)

Andy Marinelli was featured in Ultrarunning magazine Top 100K female athletes in 2017! 

2018 SRR Wintah Challenge
Despite the forecast being colder than Mars, the Wintah Challenge continued in early January with an abbreviated “Feats of Strength” followed by brunch and awards at Casey’s.

(Photo credit: Laurie Gagnon and Deb Downs, Wintah Challenge Committee Members.)

(Photo credit: Laurie Gagnon and Deb Downs, Wintah Challenge Committee Members.)

Annual awards presented at the post-holiday bash (recap by President Julie Holt):

Please extend your congrats to Deb Downs and Todd Prokop, the 2017 Steve Burton Most Improved Runner Award recipients. Liza Neustaetter, Doug Lipinski, Chris Smith, and Barbara Grandberg were recognized for being outstanding volunteers in 2017. We gave appreciation awards to Bradley Harris for his work taking over the Gobble Gobble Gobble, Mark Duggan for his contributions to our race committees, and Carrie-Anne DeDeo for her ongoing commitment to the club in various capacities.

Dennis Shay was our 2017 Rookie of the Year, and Charoma Blyden was presented with the Grit Award for her toughness in sticking it out to finish 50 miles at the TARC Fall Classic. Paul Nelson and Pensri Pilotte were given the Tom Cole Award for their efforts to photograph SRR runners at the Boston Marathon and throughout the year, keeping Tom's legacy alive.

Finally, Steve Vaitones was the 2017 Don Molloy Unsung Hero Award recipient for his tireless service to SRR throughout the years. The next time you see him, be sure to thank him for everything he does for us (and he does everything for us!).

(Photo credit: Laura Buso.)

(Photo credit: Laura Buso.)

SRR Runs Philly: Shout-out to Dennis Shay for his amazing PR! He cut 20 minutes off his debut marathon time (at Newport in April 2017).

(Photo courtesy of Victor Gonzalez.)

Gobble Recap by Bradley Harris

The 2017 Gobble Gobble Gobble was another successful running of SRR’s premier race event. With our largest ever field--we had 2700+ finishers this year--and a new outdoor beer garden, we were able to raise funds to support SRR’s programs as well as donate $38K to Somerville Homeless Coalition, Somerville Track PAC, Somerville Auxiliary Police, and the Sean Collier Fund.

We are always looking for new committee members or families to be featured as our favorite family. If you’re interested in either (or both!), email gobble@srr.org.

Here’s a photo of Laurance Stuntz from this year’s favorite family with his official G3 turkey!

(Photo courtesy of Bradley Harris.)

Member Spotlight - Spice Bean

Maybe you've seen her sprinting at the start of the Bur-run, or perhaps you've almost tripped over her while she catches up on some urgent pee-mail in the middle of the Casey’s Thursday night run. Undoubtedly, you've seen her sad puppy dog eyes gaze longingly at you while you try to enjoy a post-run piece of pizza or bowl of beef stew. This fun-size canine has been called "The Queen of Somerville" by SRR member Jackie Silago, and she certainly lives up to her name.

In the four years that Spice Bean has lived in Somerville, she has frequented many locations typically reserved for human counterparts. Spice regularly attends CrossFit workouts with her human, Jon Bean. She has kayaked down the Charles River and even attended a Red Sox game where she met pitcher Joe Kelley. "He wanted to pat my head so I let him," remarked Spice. She later confessed, "I was hoping he would give me a treat." But what is Spice's favorite activity?

Spice reports that, in addition to running, she enjoys lounging in the sun, rolling in foul smelling patches of grass (for some unknown reason her human always interrupts this pastime), chasing sticks, swimming at the Fells, cuddling, being carried, and defending her home from the neighbor's dog, Rosie. "She knows what she did," stated Spice after being asked why she has such a dislike of Rosie.

In addition to her many hobbies, Spice also enjoys being a member of the Somerville Road Runners. She considers herself a full-fledged member of the SRR although she has yet to pay any dues, stating, "My human takes care of my finances." Spice has been an avid runner for three years and has completed the Freedom 5K and MOM’s Run, where she came in first in her species. To novice runners, she offers the advice, "Go slow and enjoy the process of running," and, most importantly, "Always wait and make sure that everyone has gotten at least one serving of food before going back for seconds."

Quote of the season:

"When anyone tells me I can't do anything, I'm just not listening any more." 

- Florence Griffith Joyner