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Damien

Apr 04 2015
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Eric Gillis and Heather Petrick score Speed River TFC double at 37th Harry’s Spring Run Off 8k

By | Harry's Spring Run-Off | No Comments

HSROT 2015 Eric GillisTORONTO. April 4th. Canadian Olympian Eric Gillis and Speed River TFC teammate Heather Petrick claimed victory in Harry’s Spring Run Off 8k this morning as 3,500 runners burst out from the coldest winter on record to declare Canada Running Series 2015 and the racing season in Toronto officially “Open”.  Gillis broke the tape in 24:18 for his second Harry’s win; Petrick in 28:13 to get a “W” in her first-ever road race. It was the 37th edition of the city’s oldest continuously-held road race, the 30th year with Race Director Alan Brookes at the helm, and the 10th anniversary of Harry Rosen Inc. sponsorship. Glorious weather in High Park, great crowds of spectators, plus the $160,000+ that was raised for prostate cancer research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, all added to a buoyant, festive atmosphere.

Gillis moved to the front from the start, with only Matt Loiselle of Athletics Toronto and Toronto Olympic Club’s Berhanu Degefa hanging on. By the time they crested Centre Road Hill at 3k, it was just Gillis and Loiselle; and by 4k, Matt began to slip and a 10m gap opened up.

“It went well for me today. I was pleased. It was my first race since Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon in October,” said Gillis. “I had a little race there at the beginning with Matt Loiselle. It’s nice to see him back fit again. He was pushing the pace and we worked well together for the first 4k, then I was on my own for the second half. I was looking to break 24:00; got close, but that finishing hill is a tough one! It felt good to be out here again. I’m going to run Toronto Yonge Street 10k, then the Ottawa 10k, and work on my speed this Spring.”   

Loiselle hung on for a strong 2nd in 24:40, with Degefa 3rd  in 25:34.

The women’s race unfolded in similar fashion, with Masters’ HSROT 2015 Heather Petrickstar Lioudmila Kortchaguina hanging onto the 19 year old Petrick until the Centre Road Hill at 3k did the damage. From there, Petrick cruised around the challenging course for a comfortable victory. No stranger to the Winners’ Circle, the Speed River teenager was 2014 Ontario University Cross Country Champion, and represented Canada at 3,000m in the Pan Am Jr Championships in Medellin, Colombia in 2013.

“I really enjoyed it,” said Petrick. “It was a really nice break from the track. It was a little bit different than just worrying about splits all the time, just kind of running how you feel, getting your rhythm in. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I decided to do the race because I usually run 5000m on the track, and I’ve decided to move up to 10,000m this summer, so this was something a little longer for me. It was a great atmosphere; a really fun experience. I’ll definitely do it again!”

Kortchaguina was 2nd overall and top Masters’ female, some 35 seconds back, with 27 year-old Brittany Moran of Etobicoke another 30 seconds behind.

HSROT 2015 Larry Rosen and Alan with CakeAt the Awards Ceremony, Brookes thanked Larry Rosen, CEO of Harry Rosen Inc, for

“10 Remarkable Years of sponsorship. Your partnership has helped bring a fine old race into the modern era, with great shirts, medals, caps, beanies, re-usable bags, music, fundraising, all the trappings that have turned it into a festival, a celebration of running in Toronto!” 

Rosen was presented with a birthday cake and a photo collage of a decade at “Harry’s” that included pictures of Jack Layton and Mark Dailey; and he was serenaded with a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday, Dear Harry’s”. The $160,000+ raised today for the battle to conquer prostate cancer brought the 10 year total to over $3 million, and was icing on the cake for the celebrations.

Full Results at: http://www.canadarunningseries.com/springrunoff/csroRESULT.htm

The next race in Canada Running Series 2015 is the Toronto Yonge Street 10k on April 19th. Online registration is open until April 12th at www.toronto10k.ca

Mar 31 2015
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Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon becomes first event in Toronto to earn Silver Level Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport

By | Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon | No Comments

We are proud to announce that the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon has achieved Silver Level Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport. The Council’s certification program is for social and environmental responsibility at sporting events. The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon joins the Scotiabank Vancouver Half-Marathon & 5K as the only two events in Canada to currently achieve this recognition. We are also honoured to join a select group of major international marathons including Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Austin, and Mexico City who are also certified “green” by the Council for Responsible Sport. For full details, see the official press release below.

Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon becomes first event in Toronto to earn Silver Level Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport. 

Eugene, OR—March 19, 2015—The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon (STWM), held October 19th, 2014 and hosted by Canada Running Series, has achieved Silver Level Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport. Organizers earned credit on 38 of the best practice standards offered in the Council’s certification program for social and environmental responsibility at sporting events. The marathon, which hosted over 26,000 participants in 2014, is now the first-ever event in Toronto to be certified by the Council for Responsible Sport.

Certification is achieved by complying with standards across five categories: planning and communications, procurement, resource management, access and equity and community legacy.

In an effort to be greener, the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon Running, Health & Fitness Expo was held at the Allstream Centre, a building that features a 30-storey wind turbine and a geothermal plant that replaces conventional heating and cooling systems to save electricity and natural gas. It was the first conference center in Canada to achieve LEED silver status from the Canada Green Building Council.

The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon also scored points through its waste prevention efforts. The entire event utilizes paperless registration both online and in person at their Expo. Of the trash produced by the event, nearly half (47 percent) was diverted from the landfill through recycling efforts. Additionally, 120 pairs of lightly used running shoes were collected for redistribution to those in need, and organizers sent 2,900 pounds of food to Second Harvest, a local food bank who diverted the food to those in need. Also, in an effort to reduce vehicle carbon emissions, a free bike valet service was offered to participants and spectators in partnership with Cycle Toronto.

“This is a huge accomplishment for our event and within the sporting event industry as a whole,” said Senior Manager of Operations and Certification Director David Gilchrist.  “With the help of our entire crew, suppliers, partners, and participants, Silver Certification acknowledges the hard work, dedication and values we apply year over year, in order to leave a positive lasting impression on our planet.  It’s an honor to be at the forefront of the movement where Canadian events are becoming more environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.”

The Scotiabank Charity Challenge helps to make runner’s participation meaningful by fundraising for causes important to them. Scotiabank adds an additional total of $33,000 in cash awards to the participating charities who recruit the most runners, fundraise the most dollars and who raise the most on average per fundraiser. In 2014 the Scotiabank Charity Challenge hosted 173 charities who raised over $3.6 million for their causes through the event platform.

Overall the total economic activity of STWM and The Running, Health and Fitness Expo is estimated at $33.5M for the city of Toronto.

“We are hugely grateful to The Council for Responsible Sport for their help, encouragement, and wonderful recognition,” said Race Director Alan Brookes. Canada Running Series is passionately committed to ‘building community through running’ – and that means the cities we live in as well as the sport we love. Sustainable communities; green, healthy cities for people, and the organizing of environmentally responsible runs are core values for us. Thanks for moving us forward along the right road. We’re proud of this achievement for our city, and the certification will inspire us to do more.”

About the Council for Responsible Sport: 

The Council’s vision is a world where responsibly produced sports events are the norm and its mission is to provide objective, independent verification of the socially and environmentally responsible work event organizers are doing and to actively support event organizers who strive to make a difference in their communities. The current version of the Council’s Certification standards (v.4.2) was developed by an outside working group of both sustainability and sport industry experts, reviewed by a wide range of stakeholders throughout 2013 and implemented in January 2014. www.CouncilforResponsibleSport.org

About the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon:

An IAAF Gold Label race, the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon is Canada’s premier, big-city running event, and the Grand Finale of the 8-race Canada Running Series. In 2014 it attracted more than 26,000 participants from 60 countries, raised $3.67 million for 173 charities through the Scotiabank Charity Challenge, and contributed an estimated $35 million to the local economy. In 2014 it also became the first marathon to be livestreamed globally on YouTube, attracting viewers from 115 countries. In 2015 it will host the Athletics Canada National Marathon Championships and the international Bridge The Gap movement. www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com

Mar 28 2015
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At Harry’s Spring Run-Off, A Father-Son Tradition Is About Suits and Family Ties

By | Harry's Spring Run-Off | No Comments

By Nicholas Mizera

TORONTO. March 28th 2015. For one father-son duo, what began as a fun way to get some exercise evolved into an annual tradition involving bonding, suits and a race up one notoriously steep hill.

Greg Stephanian and his son Jason have taken part in Harry’s Spring Run-Off every year since 2010. As Toronto’s oldest continually-held road race, Harry’s takes participants on a run through High Park in support of Prostate Cancer research at The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. It’s a challenging race to the finish for elite athletes, but for the Stephanians, it’s more about the good cause and community feel that first inspired them to join up.

“The costume portion of it also adds to the fun,” said Greg. “How many chances do you get to run a race all put together in a suit?”

The season opener attracts some 4,000 runners and walkers, many dressed up in the spirit of the race’s sponsor, Harry Rosen. Jason determined to run his first Harry’s dressed to the nines after seeing a subway poster featuring a dapper runner. He convinced his power-walking father to do the same, and a tradition was born.

“It may make it more difficult, but it definitely makes it more fun,” said Jason.

HSROT Style 2012Greg and Jason started out wearing clothes they were comfortable mussing up, like a 30-year-old suit handed down from a relative. Since then, they’ve taken to the starting block decked out in bowties, tuxedos and even a Prince Charming costume one year, earning them multiple spots on our list of the race’s best dressed runners.

Jason encourages other runners to dress up, but advises them not to worry too much about race results. “I personally feel that’s not what this race is about,” he said. “If I were trying to go for a personal best, I wouldn’t be doing it in a tuxedo.”

While the Stephanians’ sense of style certainly makes them look effortless, the course veterans agree that Harry’s hilly route can be a handful at times. The final 600-metre sprint up Spring Road Hill just before the finish line is considered by many the toughest leg of the race — and even tougher in a suit. Regardless, it’s Jason’s favourite part thanks to spectators who gather there to applaud runners to the end.

“Every single time I’ve made that corner, there’s always someone who makes a comment about how I’m dressed,” said Jason. “It’s really motivating to have someone to point you out and cheer you on as you reach that last 100 metres.”

When the going gets tough, Greg advises participants to take the obstacle one step at a time. “You can’t think about the end because you’re not there yet, so you have to concentrate on what you’re doing right at the time,” he said.

Once you do get there, conquering that final crest and crossing the finish line is a moment that never gets old. For at least two generations of Stephanians, however, the opportunity to spend time together is just as important as the medal at the end.

“One of my favourite memories is just sharing the race with Jason,” said Greg. “It’s a fun thing to do and I’m glad that I can share it.

Join Greg and Jason next week on Saturday April 4th at Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8K & 5K! Online registration closes Sunday March 29th at midnight, so sign up now to secure your spot at the start line. Remember to come dressed in your best as we will have prizes for the most stylish runners!

Mar 26 2015
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Toronto Race Celebrates 37th Anniversary: “Ten Remarkable Years with Harry Rosen.” By Paul Gains

By | Harry's Spring Run-Off | No Comments

TORONTO March 26th 2015. For thirty-seven years the Harry’s Spring Run Off 8k and 5k has been the season opener for many of the country’s top distance runners. It is Toronto’s oldest, continuously held road race.

On April 4th more than 4,400 runners of all abilities including elite racers, fun runners and charity fundraisers, will line up in Toronto’s High Park for what will be the 37th anniversary of this prestigious race. Harry Rosen Inc. has been title sponsor of “Harry’s” Spring Run Off for the past ten years.

Some of the sport’s superstars have emerged victorious on the picturesque and challenging course. Indeed, the 8k course records are held by Daniel Komen of Kenya (22:35 in 1994) and Britain’s Jill Hunter (25:56 in 1990).

Komen, of course, went on to set world records at 3,000m and 5,000m as well as capture the 1997 IAAF World Championship at 5,000m. Incredibly that 3,000m record (7:20:67) still stands.

There have been some epic battles. Defending champion, Paul Kimugul, a Kenyan born resident of Toronto will be hard pressed again by two-time Olympian Eric Gillis who is a late entry.

HSROT Eric Gills

Eric Gills breaking the tape in 2011

Last year Gillis was 3rd about twelve seconds behind the Kenyan. The resident of Guelph, Ontario had planned to run the Rotterdam Marathon but tendonitis in his shin hindered his preparation. As a result he adjusted his training to include some spring road races

“After I decided not to do Rotterdam my goal was just to get back into healthy form and get some good workouts under my belt; get my groove,” says the 35 year old. “I got another couple weeks of training in and decided to go for some races and Harry’s is one I have done a few times before. It’s 8k and a bit of a different distance for me. It’s a fun race so I emailed Alan to see if I could get in and he said sure.

“I like that it’s in High Park, I enjoy the nice scenery there; it’s a beautiful area of Toronto – a challenging last hill. It’s one of those things: I enjoy the thought of it; don’t necessarily like it when I am finishing. It makes it interesting. I like watching the race after I am done and cheering on people up that hill.”

The hilltop finish is also on Larry Rosen’s mind as he thinks about the race. The CEO of Harry Rosen, a leading menswear company with 17 stores across Canada, is extremely proud that 2015 marks the company’s 10th consecutive year as title sponsor. He and many of the company employees have run every year in their distinctive lime green t-shirts and raised roughly $3 million for the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre’s research into prostate cancer.

“Listen, that last hill in that race is an absolute bugger,” says Rosen, the eldest son of founder Harry Rosen, with a laugh. “At the end of the 8k you come up that last hill and it separates the men from the boys and the women from the girls, so to speak.

“It’s a really great sense of community and great spirit when you go out there. A few years ago I remember (the late NDP leader) Jack Layton had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and he came out to launch the race. It was very meaningful to know that a real victim was there supporting the race and supporting the fundraising.”

Olivia Chow, Jack Layton, Mark Daley and Larry Rosen

Olivia Chow, Jack Layton, Mark Dailey and Larry Rosen at Harry’s Spring Run-Off, 2010

Rosen, who also sits on the board of the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, points to the impact this race has had on cancer research.

“It’s interesting,” Rosen continues, “almost all of the money we have raised over the past ten years has gone to support the work of Dr. Robert Bristow and his team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.

“Last year he made a very significant breakthrough to do with the genetic code and being able to make certain predictions vis a vis prostate cancer. We know that we have made a difference in men’s lives and our activities have bettered and extended the lives of many men. We feel a great sense of accomplishment as a result of that.”

Besides that challenging Spring Road hill, which has earned the respect of thousands of runners of all abilities, there has been another constant from the beginning. Race director Alan Brookes will be celebrating his 30th year at the helm. Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8k is also part of the eight race Canada Running Series.

“The Spring Run-Off has always been really special to me,” says Brookes. “To me, it means Spring and a new season in Toronto’s most beautiful park. It was started by the Dyon brothers, Mike and Paul, and Brooks Shoes (the original title sponsor), (former Canadian 1,500m record holder) Dave Reid and his father, Coach Hugh Cameron, and was Canada’ s first ever prize money race.

“And what can I say about Larry Rosen and the Harry Rosen team who have been partners of the event for the past ten years? They have helped this historic race move into the modern era for a great cause. It’s an experience, not just a run what with the piper, the maple syrup, the great swag, the pancake breakfast.”

The 8k race starts at 10:00 a.m. followed by the 5k at 11:15 a.m. A children’s 800 metre run goes at 11:45 a.m. To cap off a great morning the $3 pancake breakfast Brookes allludes to will also be held post race (10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) in the Party Site. Pancakes will be flipped by Councillor Sarah Doucette, and all proceeds go to the High Park Nature Centre.

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For More Information and last-minute entries: http://www.canadarunningseries.com/springrunoff/index.htm

 

Mar 23 2015
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Why I Run.

By | Modo Spring Run-Off 8k | No Comments

VANCOUVER March 23rd 2015. Digital Champion Elinor Warkentin has been running for 10 years, taking up the sport at 44 after facing several health issues. After crossing her first finish line, she was hooked! Goal oriented and a lover of travel, Elinor combined her passions and has run 41 races in Canada and around the world, including her first marathon in Iceland to celebrate turning 50. Yesterday, Elinor ran a Personal Best time at the Modo Spring Run-Off 8K in 52:15.

Why I Run. By Elinor Warkentin. 

I love to run. Currently, I’m running about 3 times a week. Mostly on my own, mornings, in my hood, Vancouver’s West End, a block from Stanley Park. I’ve run a lot of races, from 1 milers to a marathon. Yesterday was my 43rd race – the Modo Spring Run-Off 8K. It was a blast!

Modo8K Digital Champs

People always ask me if running is hard on your knees, and maybe it is. I’ve been running for 11 years, maybe it’s taken a toll. But my 2010 tumble down two rock hard granite steps, bashing bones, bruising ankles, feet, landing on knees, did much more damage. And while in recovery, when I didn’t know if I would ever run again, I’d sometimes put on my running gear, and immediately feel better. It still works. If I’m feeling down, or I’m off running for some reason, I can simply put on a race t-shirt, my running skirt, and voila! I feel calmer, happier, and more fit.

When I first started running in 2004, it was for my health. My parents were both dying, I was overweight, out of shape, and unhappy in my marriage. I started with a running clinic: 30 seconds running, 4.5 minutes walking. I wondered how I would double that to 1 minute running, then 2, then 4… but somehow I managed. My determination kept me going. Plus I would call my parents every week, keeping them posted on my progress. My dad seemed impressed. He was 80. Then I got “The Call.” My father only had a little time left. If I wanted to see him, I had to get there fast. I got on a plane to Manitoba. By the time I got there, it was my stepmother who was on her deathbed. She was taken off life-support shortly after I arrived. Three weeks later my dad died.

I ran my first race shortly after. And I wrote “running for love”, with the names of my parents on long ribbons, which I pinned to my shirt. I only cried for a few km’s, but I was proud of myself the whole way. I’d run for them.

Since 2004, I’ve had a serious fall, deaths in the family, and a divorce. But I kept running. I’m competitive, always timing myself. I rarely let go of my desire to run faster. I set goals and aim higher. I ran my first marathon in 2009 in Iceland, to celebrate turning 50.

Running thrills me. It’s helped me to have a healthier body, mind and spirit. It’s good for my soul. It’s solace and comfort. And it has helped me build confidence and increase my self-esteem.

Elinor Modo8K Image

Then there’s the running community. I joined Lions Gate Road Runners in 2013, when I had to take a break from running due to osteoarthritis in my hip. I’m happy to hang out with runners and ex-runners. I volunteer at races, enjoying the energy. I was tickled pink to be invited to be a Digital Champion for Canada Running Series. Having my image used for the 2015 medal was triple thrilling! In fact, a few times before today’s race, I was near tears, so happy, high-fiving the other Digital Champions who have become virtual and real running friends. It was a very special race for me and it was an extra-special medal to receive.

Running keeps me fit.

Running reduces my stress, helps me cope with grief.

Running takes me to a place where I have the best creative ideas.

Running helps me see beautiful places, whether in my own back yard or across the globe.

I’m happy when I run. I still run for my health. The knees will just have to put up with it.

Thank you Canada Running Series West and Modo for yesterday’s run!

Mar 22 2015
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Kelly Wiebe, Lanni Marchant win Modo Spring Run-Off 8K. Record crowds turn out for Canada Running Series opener.

By | Modo Spring Run-Off 8k | No Comments

VANCOUVER. March 22nd, 2015. Kelly Wiebe and Lanni Marchant recorded impressive victories ahead of a record-sized crowd of almost 1,300 runners at Sunday’s Modo Spring Run-Off 8K in Stanley Park. The event was “Opening Day” for Canada Running Series 2015, the country’s #1 running circuit, and drew runners from 7 provinces and 8 countries. It was also an important fundraiser for the Take-A-Hike Foundation.

Wiebe, who will be leaving tomorrow to race for Canada in the IAAF World Cross Country Championships next Saturday in Guiyang, China, came out strong and took no prisoners in a stacked men’s field.

“I knew it was going to be very tough competition today, so I was looking to go out hard. I made sure the first couple of kilometres were really, really honest! After that I just tried to maintain the gap to the Finish. The race was an important sharpener for World Cross. I just wanted to feel good and build confidence.”

Kelly Wiebe winner Modo8K Horizontal

Returning Champion Kelly Wiebe takes the win in 23:42

Kelly passed 1km in 2:45 and never looked back, crossing the line in 23:42, 40 seconds faster than his winning time in the race last year.

Geoff Martinson was very pleased with second place. “”It was better than I expected,” he said.

“I went out a little bit conservatively. I kept my eyes on Kelly and Chris [Winter] ahead and slowly tried to reel them in. Kelly went out very fast. I knew I couldn’t hold that pace. I just went with what felt good for me. Then, with a K to go I found a bit more in the tank and got by Chris”.

In the women’s race, there was a really tasty battle between Canadian Marathon record holder Lanni Marchant [London, ON] and Vancouver’s Rachel Cliff. Marchant eventually prevailed, 26:43 to 26:55 ,but not before a thrilling duel around the Stanley Park Seawall.

Lead Women Modo8K

Dayna Pidhoresky, Lanni Marchant, and Rachel Cliff battle it out on the Modo8K course!

“I just ran with Rachel the first 4 or 5km,” said Marchant. “Then I really tried to pick it up and run strong the last 3k. Rachel made a surge around 4k and I had to hang on. Then I got a second wind around 5k and moved away the last two K. I think I knew I had it by 6k. I’m really happy to come out here and win. The Vancouver girls really seem to own the races out here, so it was nice to represent Ontario!” From here I’m going to Payton Jordan and do some track in April, before switching back to marathon training for the Pan Am Games marathon in July.”

Third place finisher Dayna Pidhoresky [27:13] also threw down an important marker ahead of her Around The Bay 30k in Hamilton, ON next weekend. “I felt strong,” she said. “I’m ready for the longer races and this was a really good test.” Dayna went out with Lanni and Rachel for the first two kilometres, and although she dropped off a little then, the leaders never got too far away. “I really enjoyed watching the battle unfold ahead,” she said.

World Beer Mile Champion, Corey Gallagher of Winnipeg, got hammered (no alcohol until post-race) by the extremely competitive field placing 11th with a time of 25:47.

Cory Modo8K

World Beer Mile Champion Corey Gallagher.

Participants today ran in support of Take a Hike, a unique combination of adventure-based learning, therapy and community service – all integrated into a full-time high school curriculum that works to empower ‘at risk’ youths in our community. The program teaches life skills and attempts to repair relationships between participants and their families. Take a Hike students volunteered at the event and together with Modo raised over $4,200 to support local school programs.

“We were thrilled with the turnout today, and the outstanding quality of the field,” said Canada Running Series president Alan Brookes, “What a fabulous launch into spring. We can’t thank everyone enough for making this event such a success. The energy was superb! We’re proud and hugely appreciative of being able to race in such a magnificent setting like Stanley Park. Special thanks to the City and Parks Board for allowing us to race here.”

Modo Spring Run Off 8K Men:

1. Kelly Wiebe 23:42

2. Geoff Martinson 23:58

3. Chris Winter 24:05

Modo Spring Run Off 8K Women:

1. Lanni Marchant 26:43

2. Rachel Cliff 26:55

3. Dayna Pidhoresky 27:13

Complete results can be found at http://www.canadarunningseries.com/results/2015/srov/overall.html

For a complete list of Canada Running Series 2015 events see http://www.canadarunningseries.com/crs/index.htm

Mar 19 2015
0

Ready, Set, Go!

By | Modo Spring Run-Off 8k | No Comments

by Katherine Moore (@RunningIntoYoga)

You have been training and preparing for the Modo 8k and these final few days before the race are very important. What you do 48 hours before the race can impact your results. You want to make sure you are prepared mentally, physically, and have everything you need for the race to go smoothly.

03-19-granolaFuel

Hopefully you have been practising with what to eat before hard training sessions. Try not to steer away from what has worked. Focus on staying hydrated with water and electrolytes. The night before the race eat a carbohydrate rich meal. In the morning wake up 2-3 hours before the race to eat a simple breakfast (oatmeal, toast, granola). Your body will have enough time to wake up and digest before the start of the race.

03-19-restRest

A few days leading up to the race rest as much as you can. Any time you can get off your feet and relax, take it. All the training is done; now is the time to relax and restore the body before race day.  It is important to get a good night’s sleep 48 hours before the race.  Some athletes have a hard time sleeping the night before a race so try to get as much as you can two nights before.

Visualization

Have you set goals for the Modo 8k?  To make these goals achievable, begin to visualize yourself reaching these goals.  You can also look back in your training log and remind yourself what you have already achieved in workouts and runs.  Look at the training sessions that you did not think you could complete and remember how you got through them.  It is also beneficial to know the course, your splits, and have a race plan.  Visualize yourself racing the course.

Last Minute Preparation

To make sure everything goes smoothly, make sure to look over the race details (start time, location, parking, washrooms,). To make sure you do not forget anything, prepare all your race gear the night before the race.

Race Day

Get to the race one hour before the race starts.  You will have time to use the washrooms, get warmed up, and finish your drills, strides and stretches.   Remember to stay relaxed, stick with your race plan and most importantly, get out there, Run Fast and Have Fun!

03-19-finish

Mar 17 2015
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Take a Hike Student – Eden

By | Modo Spring Run-Off 8k | No Comments
VANCOUVER, BC – March 17, 2015

Not every student fits into the mainstream school system, but that’s where the Take a Hike Program comes in. Each week leading up to the #Modo8k we’ll meet a new student and hear more about this fantastic program.

Meet Eden, a first year Take a Hike student.

03-17-tah-edenMy name is Eden. I’m a first year Take a Hike student. When I was in my previous high school, I was struggling to succeed. I ended up failing grade 9 twice. My friends were in worlds different than my own. I was left behind. I tried to catch up but I couldn’t. The teachers there couldn’t support me because they were too busy with everyone else.

I was failing because of my attendance, and the reason I didn’t go was… many things. I have lived on my own with my mother for my whole life. She had gotten very sick so I ended up having to take care of her and our home whenever she was incapable. I had barely any friends at the time. I was extremely stressed out all the time without any way to vent my stress. One thing led to another and I ended up failing twice. I didn’t have any more motivation to go to school left in me.

Finally my school counsellor recommended a change in schools. Specifically, an alternative program called Take a Hike. There is a stigma around alternative programs so I was hesitant to join. My desire to catch up in my grades however changed my mind. I joined Take a Hike, but I was still worried about what the other people there were like. Surprisingly, I saw some familiar faces and the people
felt normal.

I was extremely dedicated to get good grades. I never wanted to feel failure again. I ended up getting honor roll in the first semester, for the first time ever. That was pretty impressive for me since all I got before was 30% to 40% in almost everything. The teachers at Take a Hike support me through everything unlike before. The teachers are more like people trying to help me find my way instead of instructors forcing you to do everything their way. The mix of support, outdoor fitness and freedom helped me change my view on schooling and my future.

Now I get up early and I’m excited to go to school, every day.

We are excited to work with Take a Hike as our Charity Partner at the Modo Spring Run-Off 8k, taking place on March 22 in Stanley Park. Find out more about Take a Hike, plus how to start fundraising, right here.

NEW – Modo will now be matching all donations up to a total of $2,500!
Double the impact of your donations before the Modo matching funds run out!

The top 3 fundraisers will win a FREE entry into either the Scotiabank Vancouver Half-Marathon & 5k (June 28) or Vancouver Eastside 10k (September 19)!

Mar 16 2015
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There Is No Finish Line For Me

By | Digital Champions, Toronto Yonge Street 10K | No Comments

TORONTO March 16th 2015. Digital Champion Robert Brouillette started running 6 years ago because he was looking for a sport to fit into. Rober has raced every distance from 1 mile all the way up to full marathon, but is really focusing on the 10K this year. His favourite racing distance is the marathon because he sees himself as a long distance athlete. Robert is currently training in Kenya and will back in Toronto for the Toronto Yonge Street 10K on Sunday April 19th. Connect with Robert on Twitter, Instagram and his blog.

There Is No Finish Line For Me. By Robert Brouillette. 

Once upon a time there was a kid that would do anything to avoid running whenever he could. Fast forward 7 years and that same kid is now a dedicated, passionate, and hard working 22 year old, sub-elite runner. He’s now racing faster, longer, and harder events with more training then he ever imagined. This is the story of how I discovered the sport of running and did everything I could to be the athlete I am today, loving every moment along the way.

Everyday, from the moment I wake up until I go to sleep, my day is filled with running related things. It can be as simple as going for a run, stretching, cross-training or resting my body, as well as working at a running retail store, having a meal to fuel my next workout or making sure I get enough sleep. Sometimes it also can be passing up on a night out with the guys, but in the end I treasure every moment running has given me. I can honestly say I never thought I would be a runner, let alone at the sub-elite level, but I don’t regret this running focused life at all.  I am very happy this is who I turned out to be as it has led me to many exciting opportunities, positive moments, and allowed me to meet many amazing running lovers. With so much love and support from friends, family, teammates, and the whole running community there’s no looking back now.

Going back to when this journey first began, I was in my second year of high school and looking to find a sport to fit into by trying soccer, basketball, floor hockey, baseball, and others. On an educational trip to Paris, France that year, I thought it would be fun to see how fast I could run from the bottom to the top of the Eiffel Tower while my classmates took the elevator. At the top my teacher, who also happened to be the High School Cross-Country Coach told me I did a great job and should check out the team. The following year with the company of my younger brother, I started running daily with the team and locally with the Cambridge Harriers. In my first year of High School Cross-Country, I was lucky not to come in last place amongst my friends. In the second year I was battling for fourth place. But in my last year, I was one of the top guys for my school.

I eventually moved on to the Cross-Country team at Conestoga College for 3 years and learned just how competitive the sport could be! This was when my running career really took off. Going to provincial and national competitions showed me the talent of runners in Canada, and being a middle-of-the-pack guy, I told myself I wanted to be up at the front one of these days. I took my running career to the next level by travelling to Kenya for high-altitude training to run with some of the best runners in the world. I have been to Kenya for 1 to 3 month periods over the past 4 years, for a total of 8 months. Day after day, being surrounded by such a talented running community has really opened my eyes and made me want to keep improving. The most serious runners dream to come to Kenya and live the African running lifestyle and to have made that dream come true is amazing, and just the start to many more dreams I have planned to complete.

Back in Canada, I train with the Health & Performance Club in Waterloo for speed work and long runs. I do my solo easy runs on the trails of Shades Mill Conservation Area in Cambridge. I have completed road races from the 5K to the marathon, odd trail distance races, a few track races, and some fun runs to keep things interesting along the way. I could go on forever talking about all sorts of running experiences! With many races under my belt, dozens of medals, my huge collection of shoes, and thousands of kilometres in my legs, there’s always some sort of interesting tale to tell, and many more awaiting me.

The moral of my story is that, although I was hesitant at first and didn’t see my potential, and slowly had to build my skills, I was quickly hooked on running and I’ll never look back. Running will be a part of my life forever because when I’m out there running I’m in my happy place and I feel like I fit in. I chose to title this piece “There Is No Finish Line For Me” because even though I may complete a running race, there will always be another event, with more training and new challenges. The finish line of my future races may be visible with medals, signs and cheering fans, but the finish line to my running career is still very far away.

Everyone has a unique running lifestyle and with the help of one another, we can take our fitness to new levels and achieve things we never thought possible. Some of us run for fun and some of us are elite. It doesn’t matter where you came from, as long as you know where you want to go. With the help of a coach, some training partners and the running community, the rest is in your hands to guide yourself to any finish line you want to cross. I hope I’ll see you all at the Toronto Yonge Street 10K and just remember that you “Can’t Won’t Stop” believing in yourself, even after you cross that finish line!

 

Mar 15 2015
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#Modo8k – Race Weekend FAQs

By | Modo Spring Run-Off 8k | No Comments

We’re busy getting ready to kick off the 2015 Canada Running Series and the big day is almost here! Below are some quick tips on what you need to know this week to have your best run at the Modo Spring Run-Off 8k:

Package Pickup Details

  • Dates: Saturday, March 21 – 10am to 4pm – Running Room – 679 Denman St
    or Sunday, March 22 – 8:30am to 9:45am – Stanley Park Pavilion.
  • We strongly recommend picking up on Saturday to give yourself more time and cut down on that race-day stress. Shirt sizes are also distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.
  • You must bring a printout of your registration confirmation OR a piece of photo ID
    More details here.

srov-parkingmap-lgGetting to the Start Line

  • Location: Stanley Park Pavilion – 610 Pipeline Road, Stanley Park
  • Transit: the start line is right next to the Stanley Park Bus Loop, serviced regularly by the #19 bus, and is the best way to get to the event.
  • Biking: there will be additional bike racks on site, but these will not be monitored racks, so remember to bring your own lock.
  • Parking: if you choose to drive, we recommend carpooling due to limited parking in the area. The Rose Garden Lot off Pipeline Road is the best place to park. The parking metres in the Park are also incredibly slow, but you can use the PayByPhone app with lot code 3696 (covers all lots in the Park) to skip the line. Note that parking is $6/day.
  • Translink Trip Planner | Parking Map | More Details

Gear Check – $2 Donation to Take a Hike Foundation

  • Gear Check will be open from 8:30am until 12pm – just look for the big white tent.
  • A donation of $2 to the Take a Hike Foundation is required, so bring some change.

Start Corrals

  • To reduce congestion on course, all runners are asked to start in their appropriate Start Corral (RED sub 40m / YELLOW 40m to 47m / BLUE 47m to 55m / GREEN 55m +)
  • Your bib number will indicate your starting corral you have been assigned (based on your predicted finish time), so just line up behind the corresponding flag in the Start Chute.
  • Corrals are self-seeding – if you feel that you need to change your corral, don’t worry, just line up closer to the start line.

srov-routemap-lgOn Course

  • Two water stations are located on course – one just before the 4km mark and one at 7km. Both will have water and Gatorade available.
  • A roving medical team will be out on course, so look for them or let one of our volunteers know if you need assistance. There will also be medical tents at the start/finish line and the 4km water station.
  • There will be washrooms at the start/finish, plus public washrooms are available at Second Beach (2km) and Lumberman’s Arch (7km).
  • Each kilometre will be marked along the course. Remember that your last kilometre, from Lumberman’s Arch to the Finish Line, is mostly uphill, so save some energy for the final spring to the finish!
  • Remember that NO baby joggers, strollers, or pets are permitted in the event.

rs_14srov_web-7Post-Race

  • Come celebrate in Stanley Park Pavilion!
  • Enjoy the Modo Community Fair and bring some money for breakfast wraps ($5 – proceeds going to Take a Hike) or a post-race beer.
  • Water, snacks, Gatorade, and PowerBars will be available in the Finish Chute.
  • After you receive your medal, make sure to get your photo taken!

west-02-24-15-volHelp us Run Green!

Modo Spring Run-Off 8k continues to be one of Vancouver’s most sustainable events and follows guidelines provided by the Council for Responsible Sport. You can help us by:

  • Only take what you need — a lot of uneaten food is thrown away at events.
  • This applies to the water stations too — only take a cup if you need a drink.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle.
  • Recycle, recycle, recycle! Clearly labelled recycling stations will be located on the route and in the finish area. They will be supervised by friendly and knowledgeable volunteers. Take all your waste and recycling to these stations — don’t litter on the course!
  • Don’t forget to recycle all items that you take home from the event. All materials are compostable or recyclable! If you’re unsure simply ask our volunteers before you leave!
  • Bring your small hard-to-recycle items from home for recycling. Green Chair are offering all runners and spectators free recycling for batteries, cell phones, small electronics, lightbulbs, and old running shoes.

Feel free to read our Race Etiquette Details as well. See you on Race Day!