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May 14 2019
0

Meet Your Saucony Pacer Team!

By | Community Leaders, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

New this year, we will be offering a wider range of pace times to help keep you on track. So here they are, our 2019 Saucony Pacer Team at the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon:

Pace Time: 1:30

Name: Lucas (@lusocio)

A little about Lucas:

I’m excited to be pacing the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon for the first time. After a brief break from running to enjoy my first year of fatherhood, I’m back and looking forward to the New York marathon this November. Good luck to all runners.

 

Pace Time: 1:35

Name: Philip (@philfinlayson)

A little about Philip:

I’m a born-again runner who loves going fast and also loves helping others race well, through good preparation and steady pacing.  I look forward to meeting you on race day!

 

Pace Time: 1:40

Name: Raymond (@raysmond)

A little about Raymond:

Long time runner, first time pacer. I’ve always respected the dedication of the race pacers, and now it’s time to help other reach their PB. Follow me to the finish line at this year’s half marathon.

 

Pace Time: 1:45

Name: Dan (@mrdanoleary)

A Little about Dan:

In a sport where I always run for myself, I want to give something back and support the goals of others. This race has people of all paces and levels, and it always makes me so happy to see them achieve their goals and set PBs.

 

Pace Time: 1:45

Name: Patrick (@pswaddleme)

A little about Patrick:

I am an enthusiastic runner always looking to embrace Vancouver’s running community in order to reach my goals, including that elusive Boston Qualification. I train with Mile2Marathon, drop by EVRC some Mondays, and have helped lead some of the smaller clinics at Running Room.  I am so excited to pace my first race and hopefully help you cruise to a shiny new PB!

 

Pace Time: 1:50

Name: Jonathan (@flyingdutchman125)

A little about Jonathan:

I did track, road and cross country throughout my school career, with some great achievements. In adulthood, I’ve completed 3 marathons, 2 ultras and more halfs than I can count. I’m excited to help others achieve their goals on race day!

 

Pace Time: 1:55

Name: Lydia (@l.tay)

A Little about Lydia:

I rediscovered running three years ago and haven’t looked back. You’ll find me on the seawall logging KMs for my next race or dropping in at my local run club to give some high fives (VRC Flight Crew and East Van Run Club). In 2019, I’m aiming to complete my 7th half marathon and 3rd marathon – pacing some friends along the way.

 

Pace Time: 2:00

Name: Kathryn

A little about Kathryn:

I am super pumped to be pacing the 2:00 group for 2019! I’ve always been a runner but started taking it more seriously when I moved to Vancouver over 10 years ago. My favourite places to run are Stanley Park and the seawall, hands down! I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone I will be running with. Let’s do this!

 

Pace Time: 2:00

Name: Mel (@melsays)

A little about Mel:

Super stoked to be pacing this year’s Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon. Last year, I had the pleasure of running the course for the first time and was able to make my goal time thanks to the race’s pacers. I’m thrilled to be able to do the same for this year’s participants!

 

Pace Time: 2:05

Name: Navaz (@navaz.be.fit)

A little about Navaz:

I (only) started running in January of 2018. My goal was to complete my first half marathon before turning 30. Since then I have completed two half marathons, two 47km challenges and a handful of other races. The running community in the lower mainland is outstanding and I’ve had the pleasure to meet and become friends with such positive and inspiring people.

 

Pace Time: 2:10

Name: Chantelle (@chantelle_swimbikerun)

A little about Chantelle:

My name is Chantelle and although I compete primarily in triathlons now, I still dabble from time to time in running races (SVHM will be my 20th half marathon and third time pacing this wonderful race).

 

Pace Time: 2:15

Name: Sean (@runningbeernerd)

A little about Sean:

I got into running later at around 40 years old – perhaps a midlife crisis? I have been having lots of fun learning, getting better, and helping others do the same! I lead a local running store half marathon run group and love watching the improvements of those both new to the distance as well as the more experienced runners.

 

Pace Time: 2:20

Name: Brenda (@jus_tri_it)

A little about Brenda:

I did my first half marathon at 47 years of age & fell in love with this event. I’ve been part of running groups for the last two years and know how motivating and fun they can be. I’d like to give back to this sport I’ve fallen in love with & would hope I can help those running around me to feel proud during the race!

 

Pace Time: 2:25

Name: Eric (@heyrickie)

A little about Eric:

I’ve run 20+ half marathons over the last 12 years. I’ve heard of others signing up as pacers and thought I should give that a try.

 

Pace Time: 2:30

Name: Amy (@amybeeman)

A little about Amy:

This will be my 25th half marathon, and my first time pacing! Most my training runs come in the form of chasing my 8 year old twins around. It will be a pretty amazing feeling to get some runners (especially those doing their first half) across the finish line.

 

All Pacers will be outfitted in shoes & athletic apparel from:

Nov 02 2018
1

60-year-old Elizabeth Waywell’s 3:07:56 marathon, age graded, would be the overall Canadian women’s marathon record (by a lot)

By | Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Uncategorised | No Comments

The late comer to distance running destroyed her age group Canadian record, ran one of the greatest marathons by a 60-year-old ever, and when put through an age-grading calculator, demolishes Lanni Marchant’s 2:28:00 national record. What’s even more impressive is that Waywell seems to be getting faster with age

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Sep 15 2018
0

Hofbauer and Wodak take the wins in the Under Armour Eastside 10K

By | Uncategorised | No Comments

VANCOUVER, September 15th.  Reigning Canadian Marathon champion Trevor Hofbauer comfortably won the sixth annual Under Armour Eastside 10K today ahead of a record 3,200 participants.  The top four men ran in a tight group until the 4-kilomtre mark before Adam Visokay, fourth place finisher, trailed off. Hofbauer took the lead ahead of second place finisher Lucas Bruchet and third place finisher Justin Kent , where he remained for the duration of the race.

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Jun 12 2018
0

Charity Spotlight: Jason Cole and Rand Surbey, racing for Cerebral Palsy Association of BC

By | Charity, Scotiabank Charity Challenge, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Uncategorised | No Comments

For the seventh year, Jason Cole and Rand Surbey will be racing in the Scotiabank Vancouver Half marathon as part of a wheelchair team. Their goal? To raise money to support the Cerebral Palsy Association of BC. Oh, and a world record.

Their Story:

After damaging his knee during last year’s run and working hard to come back from injury, Jason will run again in 2018, pushing Rand again in an attempt to capture the elusive and challenging bid to capture to Guiness Record and support the Cerebral Palsy Association’s team. After seven years of breaking the world record but not having their time recognized due to an equipment technicality, Jason and Rand are coming back stronger than ever to prove their speed and determination.

 

“Thanks to Wheelin’ Mobility and the Cerebral Palsy Association of BC, who outfitted us with a racing wheelchair that matches the requirements of Guinness, Rand and I are back in training and preparing to take on the Scotiabank Half Marathon again this year on June 24th” said Jason. “Our goal since beginning our racing careers has always been to advance the inclusivity of fun athletic events, like running races and the Tough Mudder, regardless of people’s financial or physical status.”

 

Jason and Rand will be racing in costume and this year’s theme will super heroes, with Rand as the Hulk and Jason as Captain Canuck. As an additional incentive for fundraising, they have acquired a limited edition, minted $20 silver coin that was released from the Canadian Mint commemorating Captain Canuck, and are offering it as a prize draw, with entries available for anyone donating in excess of $50 to our fundraising efforts. The draw will take place at the finish line of the race.
 

CLICK HERE to support Jason and Rand, and the Cerebral Palsy Association of BC.

 

 

May 29 2018
0

#UAeastside10K Partner Charities Announced!

By | Uncategorised | No Comments

Under Armour Eastside 10k is proud to be working with key charity partners that are working hard every day, supporting our community.

 

PHS Community Services Society

phsPHS Community Services Society (PHS) is an innovative and well-established non-profit organization located in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) community. The organization has extensive property management experience in complex mixed-use projects and primary health care initiatives. PHS improves the lives of thousands of vulnerable individuals each year through housing programs, health care and support services. Clients served represent the most marginalized populations residing in Vancouver’s DTES and face multiple barriers due to their mental health and substance use. Through many successful partnerships, PHS contributes to developing and maintaining best practices in health care and harm reduction.

Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre

The mission of the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre (DEWC) is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for women from all walks of life, who live and/or work in the Downtown Eastside. DEWC operates a low-barrier drop-in centre and emergency night shelter, offering safe, women-only space, meals and basic essentials, as well as a continuum of care that nurtures and empowers members towards long-term change. DEWC sees over 500 women every single day, providing refuge from conditions of poverty and violence, hot, nutritious meals, toiletries and clothing, phone and computer access, as well as specialized support including advocacy, victim services, HIV case management, and housing assistance. In a severely marginalized community, DEWC provides a place where women can come as they are, find resources, support, and sisterhood, and build personal capacity so as to bridge the gap fromsurvival to self-sufficiency.

 

Greater Vancouver Food Bank

The Greater Vancouver Food Bank is a non-profit organization with a mission to create empowering environments that provide and promote access to healthy food, education and training. The GVFB provides assistance to over 27,000 people weekly through 13 food locations and more than 80 community agencies located in Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster and the North Shore. The GVFB is committed to its vision of accessible, healthy and sustainable food for all and through community collaboration, is pro-actively working to help reduce food insecurity.

For every dollar donated allows the GVFB to purchase $3 of nutritious food.

 

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Fundraising / pledging our 3 Eastside Charities:

  1. Make a Top-up Donation. You can donate directly to our partner charities during
  2. Start online fundraising with your registration for the event. Personalize your Pledge Page, select your preferred charity, and send it around to family and friends! Simply Sign in to your account, once registered, select Menu, edit your page, then share it via email, Facebook, and Twitter. Click here for assistance in setting up your page.
  3. Donate toa Participant or Team
May 07 2018
0

Meet Your #scotiahalf Pacers!

By | Community Leaders, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

Trying to get under the two-hour mark? Looking for a running buddy to keep you motivated through your race? Pacers are a great resource for runners to help maintain pace, keep you motivated, and maybe push you towards that elusive new PB!

We had an incredibly strong group of applications for our pacer positions this year, and we’re very excited to announce your 2018 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon Pacers!

 

Pace Time: 2hr 30min

Name: Susan

A little about Susan:

“I started running with my first Learn-to-Run clinic in July 2012, and did my first half marathon in November 2013. Since then I’ve done 10 half marathons.  I have attempted to do the Scotia Half a few times, but scheduling and injury derailed my plans. ”

“I paced my first half marathon last year and had a fantastic time, so I decided to do it again this year; and when Canada Running Series asked for pacing volunteers, I jumped at the chance.  I am looking forward to bringing other racers across the finish line!”

 

Pace Time: 2hr 30min

Name: Amanda

A little about Amanda:

“My name is Amanda and I was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. My passion for running started in high school and I’ve completed several races ranging from 10k to full marathons mainly in BC, but also in the US and Ireland. I’m excited to serve as a pacer for the 2018 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon because I can’t wait to help you crush your goals! Whether your goal is to just finish the race or get a new personal best, I’ll be there with you every step of the way!”

 

Pace Time: 2hr 15min

Name: Meaghan

A little about Meaghan:

Meaghan started running in 2013 when her brother bet her on who could out run who at a 10K race (this is now an annual tradition!). Since then, Meaghan has run countless 10KM events, 11 half marathons and is currently training for her first full marathon. She is very excited to pace the 2:15 Scotiabank Half Marathon group and to help fellow runners crush their goals. When not out running with her husband James and their chocolate labrador Gus, you can find Meaghan at the local coffee shops or craft breweries.

 

Pace Time: 2hr 15min

Name: Rose

A little about Rose:

“Hi there! My name is Rose and I am super excited to be a pacer for the Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon! I code most of my day away, so running is a welcome break for my brain and body. The Scotiabank Vancouver half marathon was my first half marathon and why I am so happy to be a pacer this year. Pacers have pushed me to PBs and finishes that I doubt I could have reached alone. I am very excited to help others reach their personal running goals.”

 

Pace Time: 2hr

Name: Paul

A little about Paul:

My name is Paul and I’m super excited to be the 2:00:00 pacer for the SVHM. I love setting HAGs (i.e. harry audacious goals) and working relentlessly to achieve them. In 2018, I’ll run the Boston, Berlin, and Chicago marathons. By achieving my HAGs, I aim to both role model and inspire my kids and others to set lofty goals and achieve them. As a SVHM pacer, I will encourage others by running alongside them and motivating them to achieve their own HAGs on what is one of the most stunningly beautiful courses.

 

Pace Time: 2hr

Name: Jaylene

A little about Jaylene:

“In the last five years I have developed a love and appreciation  for running and created a lifestyle around it. With the help of mentors in the Running community that have challenged me and with my sense of determination I have completed my goal in running the Boston Marathon in 2017. ”

“Giving back to the running community has always been important to me. Helping fellow runners push themselves to meet new goals gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride as I give back to the community. ”

 

Pace Time: 1hr 45min

Name: Philip

A little about Philip:

“Hello!  I am Phil Finlayson and I have the privilege of pacing the 1:45 group at the 2018 Scotiabank Half Marathon.  This will be my fifth time running in this event.  My favourite distances are 10K and Half Marathon, though I will have just finished my 3rdMarathon before we meet at the start line.  You can find me sharing my love of running with the North Burnaby Runners, Phoenix Running Club, Sun Run Clinics and sometimes even with crews west of Boundary Rd.”

 

Pace Time: 1hr 45min

Name: Dan

A little about Dan:

Originally from the UK, Dan ran his first 10k in London back in 2001. He didn’t get back into it until 2013 when he joined a local run group (at Rackets & Runners) to improve his distance and find a supportive run community. You can find Dan at road races of many distances; he’s lost count of how many, but the half is still his favourite. He’s also competed in 12 triathlons of all distances except the full Ironman; that’s his main focus for this year, as he’ll be competing at Ironman Canada in July. He’s looking forward to working to help others meet their goals at this year’s race!

Apr 03 2018
0

Running Shoes vs. Training Shoes: Are They The Same?

By | Racing Strategy, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Training Tips, Uncategorised | No Comments

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RUNNING AND TRAINING SHOES?

Running and training shoes may look similar, but the key differences are in sole flexibility and heel drop.

  • Running shoes are built for heel-to-toe movement and the higher heel drop in running shoes comes from added support and cushioning. Take these shoes on tracks and runs.
  • Training shoes are for multi-directional movement, especially lateral (side-to-side) movement. The sole of a training shoe is flatter, making it more flexible to allow a wide range of movement. Take these shoes to the gym.

WHAT ARE RUNNING SHOES BEST FOR?

This one is more obvious – running shoes are for running. But how do running shoes help with running? Running shoes protect your feet when pounding the pavement over and over again. Where a training shoe helps with side-to-side movement, running shoes help with forward movement. Running shoes also provide more cushioning and support, which often translates into a higher heel drop. This makes for more comfort during long distance runs when you need lots of shock absorption.

WHAT ARE TRAINING SHOES?

Training shoes support a range of movement, including: cutting, stopping, breaking, jumping, and changing direction quickly.

This makes a training shoe versatile and good for many different types of workouts. You can think of training shoes as your all-in-one gym shoe.

You can usually tell a shoe is a training shoe by how much flatter the shoe is. The technical term here is the “heel drop,” which refers to the distance from the heel height to the toe height.

WHAT ARE TRAINING SHOES GOOD FOR:

  • High-intensity gym classes and outdoor boot camps – cushioning for high-impact and run training
  • Weight lifting – heel support so you can go lower into squats and then stand up
  • Strength training – a training-specific last makes for extra space in the forefoot
  • Agility training – grooves and outsole patterns for traction during plyometric and multi-directional movement

You can even do short distances on a treadmill. Anything longer than a 5K is usually better with running shoes for shock absorption.

HOW SHOULD TRAINING SHOES FIT?

Training shoes have a comfortable upper and flexible midsole for multi-directional movement. A lower heel drop puts you closer to the ground to push off and pivot. Training shoes are lightweight for easy and efficient movement.

RISKS OF USING THE WRONG SHOES FOR YOUR WORKOUT

Wearing the wrong shoes may lead to problems such as:

  • Discomfort
  • Lowered performance
  • Injuries

DISCOMFORT

The wrong type of shoes can cause discomfort in many different ways. You may experience blisters, aches and pains, or soreness. It may be the reason your shoe doesn’t feel quite right. The best shoes don’t get in your way at all – letting you do your workout without hardly noticing them.

LOWERED PERFORMANCE

Wearing the wrong type of shoe can keep you from performing your best. When you’re putting in the hard work to get better, the last thing you need is your shoe to be holding you back. Running shoes during plyometrics can keep you from pivoting quickly. You won’t have the grip, traction, and flexibility of the sole a training shoe provides. Without running shoe cushioning and support, it may be harder to up mileage or get faster.

INJURIES

Running and training shoes provide specific types of support to prevent injury. Here are some of the ways a mismatch of shoe to workout may increase your chances of injury:

  • Running shoes for lateral movement: higher heel drops make for a higher chance of ankle sprains during lateral movement
  • Running shoes for plyometric workouts: the extra cushioning and support from running shoes can keep you from landing properly and can increase your chances of a knee or ankle injury
  • Running in training shoes: without the cushioning and support of running shoes, you can increase your chances of getting plantar fasciitis
  • Not enough running support: stress fractures can occur from running without proper support, which can happen when using minimalist shoes lacking cushioning to absorb shock
  • The wrong type of running shoes: tendonitis can happen when you aren’t wearing the running shoe for your pronation type – whether it’s an overpronator needing a more structured shoe or a neutral runner wearing a shoe with too much arch support
  • Lifting weights in cushioned shoes – it’s best to do lifting in shoes with little cushioning

Don’t forget shoe size. Too small of shoes can cause your toenails to turn black from bruising and fall off. You should be sizing up at least a half size to account for the natural movement and swelling of your feet during workouts. You may also need to find the right shoe width for your comfort.

If you’re still unsure about what shoe is best for you, find an ASICS retail store for expert guidance or your local specialty sports store.

 

This blog was originally written for ASICS, and can be found HERE

Mar 25 2018
0

Pre-Run Breakfast Ideas

By | Eastside 10k, General, Nutrition, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Uncategorised | No Comments

Quick and Energizing Pre-run Breakfasts

Not everyone is a morning person, let alone a morning runner.  Our body is creaking from a night’s rest and some can find it difficult to get out the door, whether it’s for an easy run or a workout.  For those that are morning larks, there’s always the question of what to eat.  Too much and it’ll bounce around in one’s gut; too little and the lightheadedness from low blood sugar post-sleep fasting sets in.

So what are the best morning pre-run snacks?  It really depends on how much time there is between eating and running, but here are some foolproof staples:

30 mins or less before running

Something light and easily digestible is key, such as:

–       a piece of fruit (banana; orange; handful of grapes etc.)

–       trail mix (sugars from dried fruit, and healthy fats from nuts are a simple fix)

–       rice cake with nut butter and honey (or jam)

–       homemade energy balls

1 hour before running

With a little extra time to digest, it’s good to get a little more in your body before a workout.  Here are some easily digestible but sustainable choices:

–       wholegrain toast with a boiled egg

–       oatmeal with nut butter and fresh fruit

–       homemade muffins (Shalane Flanagan’s Superhero Muffins are a staple)

–       cereal and milk

2 hours before running

This is a sweet spot before most long runs and big workouts.  Most people can have a solid breakfast that won’t cause any GI distress during longer runs or workouts.  Just be sure to portion control and don’t get too over-zealous!  There will be time to indulge in a bigger serving size post-run.

–       teff flour or chickpea pancakes (these flours give a little extra protein that goes a long way!); top with maple syrup or fresh fruit and jam

–       burrito (keep it small!).  Using smaller wraps like corn tortillas or small flour tortillas are great. Fill with eggs, rice, beans, or even nut butter, fresh fruit and yogurt.  Mix it up depending on what sits well in your stomach.

–       Breakfast hash: simple ingredients like baby potatoes, a boiled egg, and some greens make for a filling pre-run meal.

Mar 12 2018
0

How to Fuel Your Training Runs

By | Eastside 10k, Edmonton 10k, General, Nutrition, Racing Strategy, Scotiabank Vancouver Half, Uncategorised | No Comments

By Kim Doerkson

Regardless of whether you’re training for a road or a trail race, if you’re racing for over an hour, it is worth looking into how to fuel your training runs.  It may seem counterintuitive to eat during a run, especially if one of your goals is weight loss.  When the time spent running increases, it’s beneficial to have some kind of fuel to keep energy levels up.  Think of it like driving a car: if the tank is full, there’s no risk or fear of the vehicle breaking down; on the other hand, if the gas level gets low, it could damage the engine and leave you stranded on the side of the road.  The same is true for running.

So what is the best thing to eat during a run to avoid hitting the wall / bonking?  Like anything, it’s personal, but there these are a few go-to’s for runners:

  • Gels. These are widely available at any running or outdoor sports store and are the most common sources of fuel during races.  Essentially just little packets of sugary goo, gels are an easily digestible sugar source that can also include electrolytes and / or caffeine depending on the type.  There is a large selection of flavours, and they’re conveniently pocket-sized, making them the most runner-friendly.
  • Chews / Chomps: Exactly like they sound, chews are the runner’s version of gummy candy.  Much like gels, they are made with sugar and can have electrolytes and / or caffeine to help boost your energy levels during a run.  Unlike gels, chews require a bit more work: they needed to be chewed (hence the name), and more of them need to be consumed to match the caloric intake of a gel.  Typically 4 chews are equivalent to 1 gel; this is great if you prefer to eat throughout the run, and not just in bursts like you would with gels.  Just make sure to try a number of types are some get stuck in your teeth more than others!
  • Candy: Sugar-highs in children after eating sugar is the result runners are looking for; but maybe not to the extreme of the sugar-crash and crying after.  Most people have a favourite candy, so it’s a good start to fueling during the run.  Bringing wine gums, or any gummy candy keeps blood sugars up if they start to falter, and taste good at the same time.  Their only downfall is that they’re straight-up sugar.  Chews and gels will have a mix of electrolytes in them too which helps to keep electrolyte balance in check when sweating out salts on a run.
  • Dried fruit: Simple and natural. Taking a ziplock bag of dried dates, figs, raisins etc. is a great option while out for a long run.  Natural fruit sugars are readily accepted by most stomachs as an easily digestible fuel source.
  • Energy balls: These are most common during big train runs as there is more opportunity for slower paces while trekking up hill, and typically take longer than a road run due to technical terrain and elevation changes. Easy to make at home, energy balls consist of a mixture of dried fruit, nut butters, chocolate, coconut, and various seeds.  All natural ingredients with good fats, sugars, and a little protein goes a long way when out for a long time!

For all of these options, practice goes a long way.  Don’t show up to race day and decide to take a gel or eat during the race if you haven’t practiced in training.  It takes time to get your body used to fuelling while running, so include it into your training plan.  Also be sure to research what in-race fuel is available and if it’s not what you’re used to, make sure to pack what your need before getting onto the start line.