Apr 08 2015
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Gillis And Marchant Face Strong Challenges at Toronto Yonge Street 10K. By Paul Gains

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TYS10K Blog Eric Gills

Eric breaks the tape at Toronto Yonge Street 10k, 2014. His first win on Yonge Street and third try!

TORONTO April 8th 2015. Two time Canadian Olympian Eric Gillis heads up a strong men’s field while Canadian marathon record holder Lanni Marchant is the women’s favourite in the 2015 Yonge Street 10km race April 19th.

Gillis, a 35 year old Guelph, Ontario resident won this race last year with a time of 28:32 and went on to capture 2014 Canadian National titles in both the 10k and the Half-Marathon. He finished off the calendar year with a new personal best at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon (2:11:21). It was no surprise that he was also the Canada Running Series overall champion.

He had intended to run the Rotterdam marathon this spring but a nagging case of tendonitis in his shin interrupted his marathon training and he was forced to change direction.

A spring road race season is now in the cards. A victory at the Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8k (24:18) last Saturday, April 4th amply demonstrated that he is in good shape.

“Yes I was pleased with (my performance) at Harry’s Spring Run-Off,” Gillis says. “It’s always nice getting a win and I felt in control at the end of a big week of training.

“It was nice getting a race in before the Toronto Yonge Street 10k.  I haven’t raced since the 2014 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon last October. So the Harry’s run is bound to help with confidence for (the race in) two weeks’ time. I’ll bring down my training more before Toronto Yonge Street 10k to make sure I’m fresh and read to go.”

Toronto Yonge Street 10k attracts a huge field and, like the Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8k and the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, is part of the Canada Running Series. Gillis faces a formidable challenge in Toronto from Athletics Toronto Track Club teammates Matt Loiselle and Sami Jibril.

Loiselle is returning from two years of injuries and chased Gillis around High Park to finish 2nd at Harry’s Spring Run Off in a time of 24:40 twenty-two seconds behind Gillis.

“Training is going well now,” Loiselle says. “I feel like I’m starting to turn a corner.  It was tough getting through the cold winter in Toronto, as anyone who was training here knows, but now spring is here and I’m looking forward to it.

“I’m excited for this year’s Toronto Yonge Street 10k.  For whatever reason, it’s really never fit into my plans since I’ve been living in Toronto.  It will be another stepping stone as I try to get back to the level I was once at. I know it’s a fast course and the competition is always great so I’m really looking forward to it.”

For the past four years Loiselle has provided accounting services for a large health food and supplement store in Markham called Nature’s Emporium.

“They are very understanding of my training and racing schedule so it’s a great place for me to work,” he adds. “I’m also in the process of obtaining my Certified Public Accountant license, so I’m in the middle of taking courses for that.  I’ve also been coaching the distance team at York University for about a year and a half, and I do some online coaching as well on the side.”

Equally busy and determined to perform well is training partner Sami Jibril. The 26 year old works the 3pm – 11pm shift as a streetcar maintenance repairman at the Toronto Transit Commission and fits in training before and after work. Twice he has run 29:16 at the Toronto Yonge Street 10k finishing as high as 3rd in the race’s 2013 edition.

“My fitness is better than last year,” Jibril insists. “I have had a great winter training without warm weather training camp this year. My main goal is to ‘PB’; I have run identical times back to back years of 29:15.5.

“Eric Gillis is a great Canadian champion and is, by far, the favourite to win. I will be focusing on myself and am preparing to finish in the top three and challenge the top guys for the 2015 Yonge street 10k title.”

Jibril tried his hand at the longer distance in March finishing 3rd at last month’s Around The Bay 30k Road Race in Hamilton with a time of 1:35:48. Consequently, he rested through this weekend’s Harry’s Spring Run-Off 8k a race he won two years ago.

Marchant, who ran 31:58 on this course to take the 2013 race, will be challenged by Tarah Korir,  the 2012 race champion. Both have recently spent time training in Kenya.

Korir, is married to 2012 Boston Marathon champion, Wesley Korir, and spends several months a year in the country as Wesley is the Member of Parliament for Cherangany district.

Lanni on her way to victory at Modo Spring Run Off Vancouver 8k on March 22nd.

Lanni on her way to victory at Modo Spring Run Off Vancouver 8k on March 22nd.

Marchant recently won the Modo Spring Run-Off Vancouver 8k in 26:43. That race kicked off the 2015 Canada Running Series.  She then finished 4th in the 10,000m at the Stanford Invitational. Her time there (32:11.06) was a new personal best and the second fastest time ever recorded by a Canadian.

The 31 year old from London, Ontario is best known for setting a Canadian marathon record of 2:28:00 at the 2013 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

“I will be doing the Payton Jordan 10000m in May,” she reveals. “I love the longer stuff. I can run marathon pace until the cats come home but getting me to run quicker is proving to be a bit of a task! So, I was happy to get out and race Modo 8k as a rust buster.

“I am doing the Pan Am Games Marathon definitely, so (I will) play around with the shorter stuff then by May I will do my last 10k and turn our heads back to the longer stuff and what I am more comfortable with anyways.”

Another runner to watch at this year’s Toronto Yonge Street 10k is Flotrack World Beer Mile champion Corey Gallagher from Winnipeg. A year ago he ran a personal best time of 30:32 at this race to finish a credible 10th overall.

“For Toronto Yonge street 10k I’m really looking to set a ‘PB’ and aim for top 10 overall,” he says. “To ‘PB’ I think I need to be a little more aggressive at the start and not sit back or be scared to go for it.”

Since winning the beer mile championship the Canada Post worker has been in the news constantly.

“It’s crazy how much attention I have got since I won Flotrack Beer Mile World Championships,” he says laughing. “I figured it would be like most things – fifteen minutes of fame – but here we are going on five months later and I’m still getting attention.

“The response at the Modo 8k was amazing. People were nice and curious about what a beer mile was. I think people like hearing about the Beer mile, everyone understands a mile and most people have had a beer. So mixing the two and hearing how fast I do both (5:00.23) seems to catch people’s attention. I’m enjoying chatting with people about the Beer Mile, and getting everyone’s take on it, positive or negative.”

As part of the nationwide Canada Running Series, the Toronto Yonge Street 10k maintains the high standard set by a full time professional management team. The downhill point to point course offers runners the chance to lower their personal best times and have an enjoyable time doing it. It is also an important fundraiser for Red Door Family Shelter.

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For More Information and registration: www.toronto10k.ca

Apr 07 2015
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Running as Moving Meditation: The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection

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

TORONTO April 7th 2015. Digital Champion Paul Silva started running to get his body moving in a meaningful way. He knew that running would touch all parts of the mind-body-spirit connection, and it hasn’t failed to do that for him yet. Paul’s favourite distance to run is the 10K, but his most memorable running accomplishment was completing his first marathon last October at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. It was much more difficult, physically and mentally, than he had expected, but he persevered and that’s what made it so memorable. Connect with Paul on Twitter and on his blog.

Paul Silva Blog Pace and MindRunning as Moving Meditation: The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection. By Paul Silva

I never wanted to run.

For 40+ years, I was content to not strap on shoes at ungodly hours and run distances that I would normally cover with my car.  Even though my dad was a runner, I wasn’t interested.  He ran for decades.  When I was a child, he would come home all sweaty from an afternoon run, and chased my brother and I to hug us and cover us in his sweat, all of us laughing while getting grossed out.  He didn’t race marathons, but he did take part in some 5K and 10K races now and then.  In the end, he ran because it was what he did.  It was important to him.

Running came to me as a sort of calling one morning.  I don’t know why I decided that morning I would try running, but it was monumental for me.  Because for a good chunk of those 40+ years, the only running I did was to the bottle.  Getting out of my own head and escaping the world were factors in driving me to drink.  So needless to say, after about 2 ½ years of sobriety, I was shocked and surprised that something pushed me to the one thing I thought I would never do – lace up and tackle the pavement.

I started with the Couch to 5K program in 2013 and before I knew it, I was running a half-marathon eight months later.  A full marathon five months after that.  My passion and love for running gripped me like nothing ever did before.  Running gave me something that fulfilled me in so many ways .  It spoke to me on all levels – mind, body and spirit.  And that is very important for me.  I strongly believe in the mind-body-spirit connection.  Like three legs on a stool, when one of those things is out of whack, I am not on solid footing.  I am a bit askew. And being solid is what brings me contentment. And joy. And keeps my recovery strong.

When I crave running, it’s also a craving to connect.  When my feet touch the ground, I am also touching something greater than myself, spiritually.  My mind is free to wander, or to focus, or to just settle.  My body gets the nourishment it needs in being free, in working hard, in feeling growing pains.  And my soul gets the joy of chasing dreams, of being thankful, of being relieved of the weariness of material-based living. And when I run, all three of these things are in sync.  Even on the bad runs, I get something out of it.  Even when my body feels broken, or when my mind tells me I can’t do it, I get the sense of accomplishment.  I feel a sense of ease and comfort with the world and myself.

Paul Silva Blog STWMRacing with others also brings me a sense of community that I never had.  The friendships that I have formed with other runners in such a short time have been one of the unexpected benefits of running. I am always amazed at the generosity and the support the community offers.  Being in a corral, waiting to start the race, always brings both a buzz and a sense of serenity.  Everyone has their reasons for running and yet we all stand shoulder to shoulder in the same place.

I understand why my dad ran now.  I understand the peace of mind, the pride of accomplishment, the exhale of negativity and the inhale of joy.  Running is my moving meditation, and as I move through this journey, I understand just how it impacts my mind-body-spirit connection.  When I don’t run, I feel it.  Not just my body, but in how I interact with the world and myself.  I feel it deep within.  But I run, and that’s what I do.  It brings the world into focus, one kilometer at a time.

I look forward in seeing everyone at the Toronto Yonge Street 10K.  I know I will see some familiar faces, meet some new ones and cross the finish line with a smile. And hopefully my two boys will be there, so I can grab them and cover them with my own sweat.  And laugh while doing so.

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

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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

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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
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Ready, Set, Go!

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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

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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)!