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February 2012 www.kalamazooarearunners.org
From the President
Greater Kalamazoo/Battle Creek on the Run
Beyond Participants from team “Orange Crush” cruise the streets of Portage
“Remember the feeling you get from a good run is
far better than the feeling you get from sitting
around wishing you were running”
-Sarah Condor
The Kalamazoo Area Runners
Rundownwsletter
Title
Contents
From the President Page 1
Hot Club News and Events Page 4
Executive Director Job Opening
Leadership Team Opportunities
Thank You from Portage Community Center
Kalamazoo Area Runners Annual Banquet March 15
Kal-Haven Trail Run March 24
Race for the Cure – Kalamazoo Area Runners Team
Borgess Health and Fitness Center offers KAR
Discount
Bronson Athletic Club offers KAR discount
Kalamazoo Area Runners Fanwear Store
Kalamazoo Marathon Volunteer Opportunities
Kalamazoo Area Runners Facebook Page
Next KAR Board Meeting is March 5. 2012
Sponsorship Opportunities
Club Championship Series - Page 14 Shamrock 5k March 24, 2012
Battle Creek Eco Run 4k and 8k April 21, 2012
Running Community News – Page 15 Vicksburg Boys XC Coach Job Opening
Good Form Running
Battle Creek Spring into Action 5k and 10k April 28
Group Runs/Training Page 15 Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training
Organized Group Runs
Club Member Corner Page 16 New Member Welcome
Volunteer Acknowledgements
Featured Member – Nicole Clement KAR Members at Vicksburg Frostbite 5k
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Greater Kalamazoo/Battle Creek has no doubt “got its run on”
with nearly 1200 runners in the Borgess Run Camp, Kalamazoo
Area Runners Beyond and SHufflers training programs
combined. All three target the Kalamazoo Marathon/Borgess
Run for the Health of It events. Borgess Run Camp, with 5k,
Half Marathon and Marathon Training regiments, is the largest
of these with 800 participants. The program has been so
successful organizers recently closed registration to new
participants. A quality training program of this size is
equivalent to staging a major race event each week, and capacity
to safely serve runners is an important factor. Our Kalamazoo
Area Runners Beyond training program is the second largest
running camp in the area, with its Half Marathon and Marathon
training regiments. The Beyond has 229 registered participants,
and also allows for guests to drop in for a small fee ($2 KAR
members/$5 non-members).
Beyond Team Sole Trainers members
The Galloway-based Kalamazoo SHufflers training program has
approximately 150 in its half and full marathon training
program, offers another fantastic opportunity for winter running
and is free to the running community.
Provided the numbers, there is no doubt demand exceeds supply
when it comes to organized training programs and greater
Kalamazoo needs three training camps to meet the needs,
particularly those of beginner runners.
Emerging out of the training programs and community
organizations there are many group runs, both formally and
informally organized. In addition to the Beyond program,
Kalamazoo Area Runners operates 6 weekly recurring runs
throughout Kalamazoo, Portage and Battle Creek. Wednesday
Nights @ 6:00pm you will find club hosted runs from Maple
KAR Discount Sponsors
Unless otherwise indicated, effective March 1, 2011
please use the KAR discount code when purchasing
merchandise or services from discount sponsors.
Gazelle Sports
10% off non-sale shoes. Please supply sales person
with KAR membership number prior to check out.
Healing Moments Massage
Massage bodywork with Joyce Hare located in KVO’s
building on Turwill Lane. Discounts apply per session
or multiple sessions. KAR Member price for one hour
is $50.00. Phone: 269-327-5824 or 269-217-7563)
Prater Chiropractic
Chiropractic Sports Physician, Daryl Prater, D.C.,
CCSP, is offering KAR members a $30 discount on
custom foot orthotics: eSoles www.esoles.com which
uses a laser to scan the contour of the foot and an air
pillow to mobilize the foot into the ideal neutral
position. For more information contact Daryl Prater
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Street Magnet School, Portage YMCA and Borgess Health and
Fitness Center. Live in Battle Creek? Kalamazoo Area Runners
now hosts Sunday morning runs @ 7:30am from Cutie Pie Café,
Tuesday morning runs from the Battle Creek YMCA @8:00am,
and Wednesday evening runs from Lakeview HS @ 5:45pm.
Gazelle Sports offers the Urban Herd Runs from the downtown
Kalamazoo store @6:00pm Wednesday evenings, and the Dirty
Herd runs from Al Sabo Preserve @4:00pm (new time starting
next week) Sunday afternoons.
In addition to the formally organized training programs and
group runs, there are many informal groups running together
throughout the community. No doubt, wherever you look,
greater Kalamazoo and Battle Creek are on the run.
And what’s to come in future months? If you didn’t get your run
on in time for one of our local winter programs, there will plenty
of opportunity this summer to achieve your running goals.
Those training for shorter distances will find plentiful support
and guidance via the Kalamazoo Area Runners Fast Track 5k
Training Program. Fast Track includes a supported beginner 5k,
as well as an introduction to speed work and a competitive speed
work program. Those seeking to train for the half marathon
and marathon distances will find the Gazelle Safari, organized in
partnership by Kalamazoo Area Runners and Gazelle Sports, a
supportive program geared towards half and full marathoners of
all levels.
Summer Safari Training Program Coaches
continued...
DRINK 2 YOUR HEALTH
If you’re interested in maintaining an active
and healthy lifestyle with a nutritious fruit juice
blend, check out MonaVie™ Active. Used by
top professional athletes, Monavie combines
19-body beneficial fruits, including the Acai
berry superfood, with plant-derived
glucosomine that promotes healthy joints. Two
ounces in the morning and two ounces at night
provide the antioxidant capacity of 13 servings
of fruits and vegetables. Visit
http://drink2yourhealth.net and click on “19
Fruits” then “MonaVie Orginal and Active” for
more information. Choose the “Preferred
Customer” page to place an online order and
receive distributor pricing (up to a 34%
discount). For more information, contact
Madhu or Amisha Mahadevan (734-740-2840).
BRONSON ATHLETIC CLUB
During the months of October and November,
KAR members may join Bronson Athletic Club
for a $99 initiation fee, $296 off the regular
initiation fee of $395. December 2011 through
December 2012, members will receive a
discounted initiation fee of $225. For more
information on joining, contact membership at
544-3200 or stop by and mention KAR.
BORGESS HEALTH AND
FITNESS CENTER
The Borgess Health and Fitness Center is
offering KAR members their corporate
discount rate of $99 initiation fees (50% off )
for new members ($50 each additional
associate). Monthly membership dues are $53
for the primary member, $26 for the first
associate, and $20 for each additional
associate. Monthly dues rates are valid as of
October 2011. Subject to change with future
facility rate increases. For more information,
call 552.2348.
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Hot Club News and Events “We run this town”
Executive Director Job Opening (Paid
Position)
Kalamazoo Area Runners is now accepting applications for a
paid part-time Executive Director (20 hours week). The position
has the potential of transitioning to full-time after one year,
depending on future funding. The position duties,
qualifications and salary can be found via the Kalamazoo Area
Runners Executive Director Job Posting and will be open to the
membership first. If a qualified candidate is not identified
among the membership, it will be opened to the general public.
Deadline to apply is Friday, March 9, 2012 at 5:00pm.
Please email cover letter and resume to Bonnie Sexton at
Executive Board Opportunities
(Volunteer)
The following Executive Board positions will be available as of
March 2012 and we are seeking candidates interested in running
for the following volunteer leadership team positions.
Candidates for Board positions must have been active members
of the club at least 30 days prior to seeking election. Candidates
may run for any Board position, regardless if there is already a
candidate. Please contact Bonnie Sexton at
[email protected] for more information
and a job description on Executive Board or Volunteer Director
positions.
Board President
Bonnie Sexton will be vacating the Board President position
due to term limits. We would like to identify candidates with the
Board of Directors
Bonnie Sexton President [email protected]
Leslie Scheffers Vice President [email protected]
Robin Carpenter Treasurer [email protected]
OPEN Vice President Marketing and Communications
Karen Townsend Vice President Special Events [email protected]
Scott Taylor Secretary [email protected]
Jane Rolfe Vice President, Development [email protected] OPEN Vice President, Technology
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time and expertise to serve in leading the largest running
organization in the state of Michigan. The part-time Executive
Director will assume responsibility for many of the duties
currently being performed by the President, and some of the
other Board and Director duties. Once paid staff is hired and
trained, this should reduce the time commitment required by the
Board President position substantially. A job description is
available upon request.
Vice President
We are pleased to announce Laura Ferrara has submitted her
intent to run for Kalamazoo Area Runners Board Vice President.
In addition to announcing her candidacy to run for office as a
member of the Executive team, Laura had already been
appointed earlier to Director of the Wednesday night runs at the
Maple Street Magnet School, as well as Director of Educational
Clinics and Assessments. Sincere thanks to Laura for
volunteering her time and talent to Kalamazoo Area Runners.
Treasurer
We are pleased to announce that Timothy Wendt has
submitted his intent to run for Kalamazoo Area Runners Board
Treasurer. Timothy is a KAR member and a partner in a local
financial services firm, and we thank him for his willingness to
donate his time and expertise to Kalamazoo Area Runners and
the running community.
Secretary
We have lost track as to how many years Scott Taylor has
served as Board Secretary, but he has announced he will be
retiring from the Board at the end of his term. We appreciate
Scott’s many years of dedicated service on the Kalamazoo Area
Runners Board. A job description is available upon request.
Vice President of Special Events
We are pleased to announce Karen Townsend has indicated
her intent to run for a second term as Vice President of Special
Events. Karen served as Manager of the Kalamazoo Marathon
and we are excited to have her continued expertise as part of the
Kalamazoo Area Runners Leadership Team.
Vice President of Development
Event and Program Directors
Joe Hulsebus Director Technology Support Club Series and Volunteer Tracking [email protected]
Phil Goodwin Director, Graphic and Web Design [email protected]
Sherrie Mann Director, Indoor Track Workouts [email protected]
Terry Hutchins Co-Director, Kal-Haven Trail Run [email protected]
Julie Wojtaszek Co-Director, Kal-Haven Trail Run Director, Online Registration [email protected]
Carole Bolthouse Co-Director, Kalamazoo Klassic (KAR) [email protected]
Bonnie Sexton Co-Director, Fast Track Training Co-Director, Beyond Marathon Training Co-Director, Turkey Trot [email protected]
Troy Root Director, Children’s Easter Egg Hunt Dash [email protected]
Michelle Fakler Team Co-Captain, Relay for Life [email protected]
Ferdi Hintz and Pam Boner Team Co-Captains, Relay for Life Bob Smola Director, Kalamazoo Marathon Pace Teams [email protected]
Gale Fischer Another Runner’s Perspective [email protected]
Cindi Macdonald Co-Director, Safari Training Program
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We are pleased to announce Jane Rolfe has indicated her
intent to run for a second term as Vice President of
Development. Jane has done an outstanding job developing
sponsor relationships her first year in office, and we look
forward to her contributed contributions.
VP Marketing and Communications
The Vice President of Marketing and Communications Board
Position is currently open, and we are seeking a marketing
professional willing to donate their time and talent to promoting
the largest running organization in the state of Michigan. We
have filled a Director of Marketing promotions position to
assume many of the responsibilities of this position, reducing
the time commitment. A job description is available upon
request.
VP, Technology
The VP Technology Board Position has been vacant for two
terms and we are seeking an experienced IT professional to fill
this critical position as we continue to further our use of
technology. We thank Phil Goodwin for his dedicated service in
fulfilling most of the responsibilities of this position in a director
capacity, but with multiple technology priorities on our strategic
plan, it is important this position is filled. A job description is
available upon request.
Non-Board Director Opportunities
(Volunteer)
Director, Expo Marketing
A newly created position to support the marketing function, a
Director, Expo Marketing is needed to organize KAR's
attendance at event and corporate wellness expos. KAR's
attendance is required at the One One Expo, Kalamazoo
Marathon Expo, Kalamazoo Klassic Expo and YMCA Healthy
Kids Day Run. Coordinating occasional attendance at corporate
wellness fairs is also a part of this position. A job description is
available upon request. Earn 120 KAR points.
Director, Indoor Track Workouts
Sherrie Mann has announced she will be retiring from her
position as Director, Indoor Track Workouts, for the 2013
season. This position involves coordinating the dates and
Event and Program Directors
continued
Stephanie Sabin Co-Director, Run Through the Lights [email protected]
Scott Taylor Co-Director, Turkey Trot Time Prediction Run [email protected]
Bonnie Sexton Director, Wed Night Portage YMCA Runs [email protected]
Steve Rice Director, Wed Night Borgess Health and Fitness Center Runs [email protected]
Darrell Harden Director, Wednesday Night Runs Maple Street [email protected]
Dave Walch Director, Halloween Hash [email protected]
Katie Conor Co-Director Fast Track [email protected]
Bonnie Sexton Race for the Cure Team Captain [email protected]
Troy Root Jingle Bell Run Team Captain Director, Children’s Easter Egg Hunt Dash [email protected]
Zachary Baker Director, Marketing Promotions [email protected]
Christine Huff Director, Membership [email protected]
Laura Ferrara Director, Educational Clinics [email protected]
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contract with Western Michigan University, and coordinating volunteers. A job description is
available upon request.
Directors Appointed by the President
Director, Member Reception Runs
Nikki Gates has just joined the Kalamazoo Area Runners leadership team as Director, Member
Reception Runs. Sincere thanks to Nikki for assuming responsibility for our fun-themed quarterly
social runs. Nikki also serves on the Kalamazoo Klassic committee and the Thanksgiving Day Turkey
Trot Time Prediction 5k Run committee, and as an S-Pace Leader for the Beyond Training Program.
Thank You Note From Portage Community Center
We would like to pass this note of gratitude on to our membership from Diane Schrock, Executive
Director of the Portage Community Center for the generous donations through the 2011 Turkey Trot
Time Prediction Run.
No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.
-Aesop
Dear Friends at the Kalamazoo Area Runners Club:
We want to thank you for your wonderfully generous contribution of toys, personal care items and
$55.00 for the Portage Community Center 's Holiday Program. Many families, after paying the
monthly bills, do not have funds for the extras most of us take for granted during the holiday
season. Thanks to you, we were able to make this special time of year a bit brighter for those in our
community struggling with economic hardships.
Through your gift, and the gifts of other generous people in our community, families were able to
receive both a Thanksgiving and Christmas food basket. Children were able to attend a holiday
party, with their parents, enjoying a special evening planned just for them. At the party they were
treated to a magic show, dinner, and a visit with Santa - complete with a gift bag and picture on
Santa's lap. In addition, some families were able to participate in our Adopt-a-Family program
and receive needed items for each family member.
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Your gift demonstrates the true spirit of the holiday season - thinking of others. Thanks to you, we
were better able to reach out a helping hand offering both assistance and encouragement. On
behalf of the many children and adults who benefited from your kindness, generosity and
compassion, the Board of Directors and staff offer our heartfelt appreciation. We hope you had a
wonderful holiday and wish you all the best in the New Year!
With Warm Regards,
Diane Schrock, Executive Director
Kalamazoo Area Runners Annual Membership Banquet Thursday, March 15, 2012
6:30 PM at the Fetzer Center Auditorium on WMU’s Campus
Guest Arrival and Check in from 6:15-6:30 PM
About the Event The 2012 Annual Banquet and Membership Meeting will be held Thursday, March 15, 2012 at
6:30pm at The Fetzer Center Auditorium (registration and check in 6:15 - 6:30pm).
The evening's events will be presented in two parts. Part I will begin with a dinner buffet provided by
the Fetzer Center Catering at 6:30pm and a presentation by our special guest speaker, Carey
Pinkowski - Race Director for the Chicago Marathon.
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Carey has been race director for the marathon since 1990, and since then, the marathon has grown
from around 3,600 participants to more than 45,000, making it one of the largest races in the world.
There is a charge ($15 for KAR members, $12 for children under 11 years of age, and $25.00 for non-
KAR members) for dinner and the presentation.
Part II will begin at 7:40pm and will include our Runner Recognition Awards, Volunteer Awards,
Annual Business Meeting and Election and Door Prize Drawing. Part II attendance only is FREE of
charge. Pre-registration is required and closes at 1:00pm Friday, March 9, 2012
Register online below via SignMeUp
Agenda Below is the evening’s itinerary: 6:15 – 6:30 Guest Arrival and Check in 6:30 – 7:30 Part I: Dinner and Special Guest Speaker – Carey Pinkowski 7:30-7:40 10 minute break, Part II arrivals 7:40 – 8:40 Part II:Awards, Business Meeting and Election, Door Prizes
Volunteers Needed
Assist with this event and earn 10 KAR volunteer points for 2011.
5:30 – 6:00 2-4 Volunteers Needed for Set Up
6:00 – Event start 2-3 Volunteers Needed for Check in
Beginning at 8:45 2-4 Volunteers Needed for Tear Down
Email Karen Townsend at [email protected] with questions or to
volunteer.
Kal-Haven Trail Run March 24, 2012
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The Kal-Haven Trail Run will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2012 and takes place on the Kal-Haven
trail extending from Kalamazoo to South Haven, MI. It consists of two races: (1) 33.5 mile Ultra Race
starting at 8:00am and (2) 33.5 mile Team Relay Race (2 person teams will begin at 8:30am and 3-6
person teams will begin at 9:00am). The event is organized by the Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR)
and all race proceeds support the Greater Kalamazoo Girls on Track (a program of Greater
Kalamazoo Girls on the Run). Please visit http://kalhaventrailrun.wordpress.com/ for additional
information on this event. Registration must be received by March 9, 2012 to guarantee a shirt and
will be limited to 100 solo participants, 50 2 person teams, and 70 3-6 person teams to ensure safety
during the event. Register early to reserve your spot! All registrations are final, no refunds will be
given. The Ultra serves as the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) State Championship. For
more information, visit the Kal-Haven Trail Run Website. Contact Julie Wojtaszek at
[email protected] or Terry Hutchins at [email protected].
Volunteers
Do you still want to be a part of the Kal-Haven Trail Run without having to run it?
This race is only possible through the support of our volunteers. There are many volunteer
opportunities for those not running the race including:
Registration – Friday, March 23 3:30-7:30pm at Gazelle Sports and/or Saturday, March 24th
6:30 – 9:30am at the Kal-Haven Trailhead off 10th St.
Providing runner support at one of 11 aid stations or finish – Kal-Haven Hydration Stops
Biking the course to monitor the runners – Saturday, March 24th 9:00am – 3:30pm
Providing transportation back to the start for solo runners from the South Haven finish line
– Various times from 12:00 – 3:00pm
Click on the following to volunteer for this event
Please contact Julie Wojtaszek ([email protected]) with any questions.
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Downtown Kalamazoo Arcadia Creek Festival Place
11:30am – 3:00pm (run/walk events begin at 2:00pm)
Join the Kalamazoo Area Runners Team in the fight against breast cancer!
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The Kalamazoo Area Runners is excited to once again be a part of the 2012 Susan G. Komen Race for
the Cure. This year’s event will be held Sunday, May 20 from 11:30am – 3:00pm (run/walk events
begin at 2:00) at the Arcadia Creek Festival Place in downtown Kalamazoo. Each year, the
Kalamazoo Area Runners organizes a fundraising team to participate in the event and raise support
for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. In addition, the event counts towards our 2012 Club
Championship Series and participates in our Race Discount Program.
At least 75% of net funds raised by the affiliate through events such as Race for the Cure stay local
and are used to fund breast cancer community grants in areas such as education, screening and
treatment in the eight counties of Southwest Michigan.. The remaining 25% of net funds goes
directly to fund national breast cancer research studies and fellowship grants.
We encourage you to join Team Kalamazoo Area Runners and support this important cause by
running, walking or donating with or on behalf of us. Our goal is to raise a minimum $1500 and
recruit a minimum of 25 team members. Team Kalamazoo Area Runners t-shirts will be provided to
the first 25 team members.
You can join the team and/or donate via the Kalamazoo Area Runners Team Web Page
To join requires two easy steps:
1. Register for the 2012 Race for the Cure, donate and join the team via the Kalamazoo Area
Runners Team Web Page
2. Email Bonnie Sexton at [email protected] with your t-shirt size and
be added to the email distribution.
For more information on joining Team KAR Pink, contact Bonnie Sexton at
Bronson Athletic Club Offers KAR Members Discount on
Initiation Fees
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KAR members may join Bronson Athletic Club through December 2012 for a discounted initiation
fee of $225. For more information on joining, contact membership at 544.3200 or stop by and
mention KAR (use the 4-digit discount code).
Borgess Health and Fitness Center Offers KAR Members
Discount on Initiation Fees.
The Borgess Health and Fitness Center is offering KAR members their corporate discount rate of $99
initiation fees (50% off ) for new members ($50 each additional associate). Monthly membership
dues are $53 for the primary member, $26 for the first associate, and $20 for each additional
associate. Monthly dues rates are valid as of October 2011. Subject to change with future facility
rate increases. For more information, call 552.2348.
Kalamazoo Area Runners Fanwear Store
Check out our complete line of KAR and Beyond Training Program apparel via the Kalamazoo Area
Runners Fanwear Store at Gazelle Sports.
Kalamazoo Area Runners Asics Interval Singlet
Kalamazoo Area Runners Asics Short Sleeve Circuit 7 Warm Up Technical Shirt
Kalamazoo Area Runners & Beyond Asics Long Sleeve Circuit 7 Warm Up Technical Shirt
Kalamazoo Area Runners & Beyond Asics Caldera Jacket
Fast Track Asics Interval Singlet
Fast Track Asics Short Sleeve Circuit 7 Warm Up Technical Shirt
Click here to begin shopping
All orders will be delivered to the downtown Kalamazoo Gazelle Sports location. The $6.95 shipping
fee will be deducted from the order when it is fulfilled (there is no shipping charge for store delivery).
Customers will be notified via email when the order is ready for pick up. Allow 5-7 additional
business days for orders that include an embroidered item.
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More than 1000 Volunteers are Needed for the Kalamazoo
Marathon: Rates Increase After March 31, 2012
Volunteers
More than 1000 Volunteers are needed for the Kalamazoo Marathon and there are many opportunities to contribute even if you are running in the event. Volunteers receive a free t-shirt, courtesy of Stryker, the official Volunteer Support sponsor. You also get the satisfaction of being involved in an event that helps make this a stronger, more vibrant, healthier community.
Take a look at the volunteer opportunities below and let us know how you'd like to be involved. Have
a question? Call the Special Events Line, 345-1913. More information is available via
http://volunteer.borgessrun.com/
Registration
After March 31, 2012, registration fees for the Kalamazoo Marathon, Borgess Run Half Marathon 5k
Run and 5k Walk increase. Check out the fee schedule at http://borgessrun.com/?page_id=1310
Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo Area Runners Facebook Group
Follow us on Facebook®. Connect with each other, receive event and program updates and more!
Click on the above icon and join the Kalamazoo Area Runners Facebook® Group. Yes, Kalamazoo
Area Runners has 446 members on our Facebook® group, and as we recruit more of you to join, we
hope to expand the use of our social media forum.
Next KAR Board Meeting is March 5, 2012
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The next KAR Board Meeting is March 5, 2012 at 7:30 pm at Maple YMCA. As always, members are
welcome to attend. For questions contact Bonnie Sexton at
Sponsorship Opportunities
Kalamazoo Area Runners is seeking sponsorships for several events and programs (listed below). In
addition we welcome for consideration general club and discount sponsors. If you know of an
individual, business or other organization interested in sponsoring any of the following please
contact Jane Rolfe at [email protected].
Kal-Haven Trail Run Easter Hash
Runner Recognition Program ($500 exclusive presenting sponsor to cover awards)
Club Championship Series (Sponsor to cover awards)
YMCA Healthy Kids Day Run
Kalamazoo Klassic
Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot
Halloween Hash
Discount Sponsors
General Club Sponsors
Club Championship Series Events
The Shamrock 5k
The Shamrock 5k Run and Fitness Walk is Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 9:00 at Hackett Catholic High School 1000 W. Kilgore Road, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008. (Kids’s Run Friday, March 23, 2012) Friday Night Registration: Participants may register for $30.00 between 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday evening. Pre-registered packets may also be picked up there.
Race Day Registration: Race day registration and pre-registered packet pick-up will be held at Race Headquarters at Hackett from 7:00am - 8:30 am.
Fitness Walkers: Results will be kept and but no awards will be given for the 5K Fitness Walk.
Awards: Attractive custom designed T-shirts to all that participate. For more information and registration, visit www.runtheshamrock.org
Kalamazoo Area Runners Club Championship Series Event
Kalamazoo Area Runners Race Discount Program Event
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Battle Creek Eco Race 4k and 8k April 21, 2012
New to the Kalamazoo Area Runner Club Championship Series and Race Discount Program, join us
for the second annual Eco Trail Race at the Battle Creek Outdoor Education Center Saturday, April
21, 2012. There will be three separate races. The 4K race starts at 9 am, the Family Fun Run starts at
9:45 am and the 8K race starts at 10 am. The 4K and 8K trail races have separate starting times so
runners can participate in both. This is a good event for those who have never participated in a trail
race, yet the terrain challenges those experienced runners. Prizes awarded after the 8K race.
Register online via Eco Race Online Registration
Kalamazoo Area Runners Club Championship Series Event
Kalamazoo Area Runners Race Discount Program Event
Running Community News Boys Cross Country Coach Needed for Vicksburg High School
Vicksburg High School, a member of the Wolverine “B” conference and
competes in MHSAA Division II tournament, seeks Head Boys Cross
Country Coach. The program has a winning tradition, is recognized as
one of the top cross country programs in the State of Michigan and is
strongly supported by the local community. Coaching duties will be
performed under the general supervision of the Athletic Director. The right person will be
responsible for directing all aspects of a Boys Cross Country program to include, but not limited to
recruitment of student/athletes, scheduling, budget management, training of student/athletes,
fundraising, and ensuring the academic progress of student athletes towards their goal of graduation.
The season is August through November.
Interested persons should send materials to: Vicksburg High School, C/o Athletic Director Michael
Roy, 501 East Hwy. Street, Vicksburg MI 49097. Review of applications will begin March 23, 2012
and will continue until the position is filled.
This position is designated as a critical, security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must
successfully complete a Criminal History Check and be deemed fit for duty at placement and while
serving in the position.
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Good Form Running
Good Form Running is an opportunity to decrease the likelihood of running related injuries. Four
simple steps can keep you on the road, helping you run longer, faster and more comfortable. This
FREE weekly clinic presented by Gazelle Sports is a great tool for runners of all abilities. Have you
checked in with your form today? Sign up at www.GazelleSports.com/goodformrunning.php
Battle Creek Offers 5K and 10K races on Sat. April 28, 2012 The first annual B.C. Spring into Action event is being held at Lakeview High School in Battle Creek,
MI on Sat. April 28, 2012. It will be a morning of activity for the whole family and people of all
fitness levels. It is all about improving the health of the community through regular physical activity.
The YMCA, Parks and Recreation, and Lakeview Community School District are all supporting this
event.
One of the main events includes three separate walk/runs. There will be a 5K and 10K timed races
beginning at 9 a.m., and a 1 mile run at 11 a.m.. The registration fee prior to race day is $20 for the
5K and $25 for the 10K and $50 for a family of 3 or more. Race day registration for both races is $30
and $60 for a family. A Tech t-shirt will be given to all who register, but race day registrants are not
guaranteed a specific size. The 1 mile walk/run is free and no t-shirt is being given.
There will be awards for the first overall male and female winners of each distance and first three
places in all the age divisions.
For more details about the races, to register, and to learn more about other activities that day go to
our web site at www.bcspringintoaction.com
Training Programs and Group Runs
Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program is Underway
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Beyonders run through the elements in Plainwell
The 2011 – 2012 Beyond Marathon Training Program is now underway and targets the Kalamazoo
Marathon, Borgess Run Half Marathon, as well as includes schedules targeting Boston. Program
registration is closed, but guests may participate on a drop-in basis ($2 KAR members/$5 non-
member friends)
Program runs December 17, 2011 – April 28, 2012.
For more information please visit www.karbeyond.wordpress.com or contact Bonnie Sexton at
Organized Group Runs
Kalamazoo/Portage
Wednesday Night Runs at Borgess Health and Fitness Center
Wednesday night runs from Borgess Health and Fitness Center meet at 6:00pm for midweek long
runs of various distances. Contact Steve Rice at [email protected] for more information and to
be added to the distribution.
Volunteer Program Event – 20 Points to Drop Aid Stations
Wednesday Night Runs at Portage YMCA
Wed Nights at 6:00 pm at the Portage YMCA for a mid-week 2nd long run. Please park and meet by
the A-frame building. Contact Bonnie Sexton at [email protected] to be
added to the email distribution and/or for more information. Locations sometimes vary. Please
bring your own hydration unless otherwise stated in distribution.
Volunteer Program Event – 20 Points to Drop Aid Stations
Wednesday Night Runs – Maple Street Magnet School
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Join in Wednesday Nights at 6:00pm from the Maple Street Magnet School for a variety of distances.
We park in the lot that is located furthest west and at the base of Maple Street hill. One water stop is
provided on the route. Email Laura Ferrara at [email protected] for more information and to
be added to the distribution.
Volunteer Program Event – 20 Points to Drop Aid Stations
Battle Creek
Sunday Morning Runs from Cutie Pie Café (Across the street from the Linear Trail)
Sunday morning runs from Cutie Pie Café at 7:30 am. Please bring your own hydration, park in the
lot at Bailey Park Auto Service and meet in the Café. All paces welcome; distances vary. Contact
Brett Hall at [email protected] for more information and to be added to the email
distribution. Runs meet weekly.
Tuesday Morning Runs from Battle Creek YMCA
Tuesday morning runs from Battle Creek YMCA at 8:00 am. Please bring your own hydration. All
paces welcome; distances vary. Contact Renee Mercer at [email protected] for more
information and to be added to the email distribution. Runs meet weekly.
Wednesday Evening Runs from Lakeview High School
Wednesday evening runs from Lakeview High School at 5:45pm. Please bring your own hydration.
All paces welcome; distances vary. Contact Chuck Zahnow at [email protected] for more
information and to be added to the email distribution. Runs begin February 22 and meet weekly.
The Urban Herd
FREE runs on Wednesday nights, 6 pm at Gazelle Sports. 2-8 mile fun runs; you choose your
distance. No need to register—just come when you can and join anytime. For more information,
contact Laura Vander Beek at [email protected]
The Dirty Herd
FREE trail runs on Sunday afternoons at 4:00pm at Al Sabo Preserve. 2-8mile fun runs; you choose
your distance. No need to register—just come when you can and join anytime. For more information,
contact Tim Martin at [email protected]
Greater Kalamazoo Group Run and Training Program List
For a comprehensive list of all group runs and training programs, visit Greater Kalamazoo Group
Runs and Training Programs
Club Member Corner New Member Welcome
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The Kalamazoo Area Runners would like to extend a warm welcome to the following new members:
Eric Brondyke Jessica Coakes Mark Rose Tom Robbert Kelly Kievit Jody Wilson Ronsted Yuag
Debra Ritsema-Stafford
Robert Guise Andrea Nixon Rebecca Coy Seth Stecker Ronald Pelak David Sage Danielle Howell Joe Agostinelli Susan Agostinelli Gretchen Allison Loren Tanis Kolene Tanis Daniel Carlson Heath Kirchner Shannon Kirchner
Garrett Kirchner Michael Jay Schoenfeld Andrew Schoenfeld
Volunteer Acknowledgements Sincere thanks to all our volunteers….we couldn’t do it without you. The President has established a
Battle Creek Subcommittee with Judah Gesmundo and Lynn Scherer as Co-chair and Brett
Hall, Renee Mercer, Jane Rolfe, Judah Gesmundo, Carie Faul and Tim Wendt as
committee members. The subcommittee will focus on ways to stimulate and connect the Battle
Creek running community.
In addition, Chuck Zahnow has volunteered to lead the Wednesday Night Battle Creek Runs from
Lakeview High School, Renee Mercer the Tuesday morning runs from the Battle Creek YMCA, and
Brett Hall the Sunday Morning runs from the Cutie Pie Café.
Thanks to Nikki Gates, Kathy Young, Frank Maston, Addie Maston, Brian Meyers,
Michael Mihelich, Tracie Stapert and Tom Coyne for staffing the recent Runner’s Night at
Bronson Athletic Club.
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Thanks to Kathy Young, Dana Schmitt, Donn and Carol Raseman, Frank Maston,
Danielle Swift and Randy Middaugh for helping with the Winterblast Member Reception run.
Featured Member of the Month: Introducing Nicole Clement
Nicole Clement at the 2011 Grand Rapids Marathon
By Christen McCool
Nicole Clement has been running for a while. She started at the age of 4 with soccer practice and then
joined the track team in middle school. Her race was the 400 meter dash, and even though she was
also a cross country runner in high school, she “wasn’t very good.” Coaches told her she was meant to
be a middle distance runner since her strides didn’t fit that of a distance runner. How wrong they
were!
In December, Nicole completed her first ultra event, the Huff 50K. Nicole describes this trail run as
being a “very uncomfortable race through waist deep water and indescribable mud,” and yet she also
identifies it as her best running memory. She credits the race’s tremendous feeling of
accomplishment for these positive feelings, but finishing as the first overall female probably helped a
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little bit too! Less than a month later, Nicole competed in another 50K trail race, this time at Yankee
Springs. Here she bested her Huff time by over 20 minutes and again she was the first female to
cross the line. Nicole claims that she finished this “beautiful hilly and challenging course” with a
smile on her face. I know what you’re thinking. Seriously hardcore. Oh, and she also ran a 3:01
marathon in Grand Rapids in the fall, placing second overall female. That my friends, is very,very
fast.
These achievements have been the result of a lot of hard work. Nicole runs 70-95 miles a week,
including at least one day of speed work, a mid week semi-long run, and two back-to-back long runs
on the weekend. She has a tight schedule, but is able to fit runs in between classes. Fortunately, this
is no chore, as Nicole really really loves to run. She says: “I run because it makes me happy. It is my
stress relief and way to relax. The focus it gives me in all areas of my life is what keeps me
motivated.”
And yes, there is more in Nicole’s life than a whole lot of running. She is a student at Western
majoring in Civil Engineering and will graduate at the end of the year. She works as a co-op for the
Michigan Department of Transportation and information desk at Western Michigan University, is
the Vice President of the student chapter of American Society of Civil Engineers, and is on Western’s
Concrete Canoe team. She also loves her cat Lili, playing the flute, shooting her Sig Sauer, and
playing beach volleyball, as well as reading and watching movies. But back to running…
Nicole is anti-music and anti-treadmill. She likes to “be in tune with” her surroundings and would
even rather run around an indoor track than resort to a treadmill. She just started using a Garmin
410 for training but won’t wear it for road races because she does not want the distraction. She
prefers to train with friends rather than alone anyway, and my favorite Nicole quote is “Runners are
the best kind of people!”, referring to all of the friends she has made through KAR and races. Racing
itself is not a time for socializing, however, as Nicole considers her herself very competitive. She loves
to race and has competed in all distances, although she now considers the 5K too short. She swears
by extra onions in her pre-race pasta with marinara and claims they make her faster. I’ll have what
she’s having.
Nicole hopes to run a sub-3:00 marathon this year as well as to continue to improve as an
ultrarunner. She says “my ultimate goal would be to get some type of sponsorship so I don’t have to
keep buying shoes, clothes and race entries... it gets expensive for a college kid.” Here’s some free
advice, from Nicole to all of us: “Try things you never thought you could do, you might surprise
yourself.” Thanks for the inspiration Nicole!
Vicksburg Frost Bite 5k
The fifth annual Frost Bite 5k was February 4th, 2012 and ten of our Kalamazoo Area Runners made
an appearance at the event. Winning overall female was Tracy Argo, with a fast winter time of
21:27. Congratulations to all our finishers: Brian Argo 0:27:48
Tracy Argo 0:21:27
Chad Carpenter 0:19:01
David Clark 0:32:47
Robert Cubbage 0:24:00
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Lori Cupp 0:23:10
Susan Kallewaard 0:34:08
Tom Pearce 0:25:07
Peter Post 0:20:37
Brett Selleck 0:21:24
Kalamazoo Area Runners does not endorse any specific political or religious viewpoint of partners,
sponsors, and benefiting or otherwise listed organizations
