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Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon Archives - Page 12 of 14 - Canada Running Series

STWM Partners With Strava

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Eat. Sleep. Train. Repeat. Oh, and don’t forget to post your training to Strava! We are proud to announce our recent partnership with Strava, an online community of athletes from all over the world, tracking their training and sharing their progress.

 

Race Director Alan Brookes says “We’re very pleased to welcome Strava to the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon #STWM community. It’s a great addition, that will allow our thousands of runners in 60 countries around the world, to share their training, not just the Race Weekend experience. Combined with our Social Hub, it will help bring us together over the last 2 months of our shared preparations for the big day on October 18th.  It will create friendly rivalries and great support!”

To get started, visit this link to sign up for a free 30-day Strava Premium Trial, available to every runner who has signed up for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon! Then visit our Strava Race Page to connect with other runners who share the same goal as you: to cross the finish line on Sunday October 18th. Inspire, motivate, and encourage your fellow runners to push through these last two months of training before the big day.

BONUS: Use Strava on race day to track your progress and you’ll be entered into a draw to win a Strava Prize Pack + Free Entry into the 2016 Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon!

We’re looking forward to following your training as we begin the final countdown to race day. Be sure to share your Strava runs on social media using the hashtags #StravaRun and #STWM!

With a Little Help From My Friends: Race Day Tips for a Runner’s Support System

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TORONTO August 19th 2015. Digital Champion Mei Ling started running 4 years ago and completed her first 42.2k at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2013! When she crossed the finish line, she felt like she could do anything and is excited to return to STWM this October. Mei loves the marathon because it is inclusive of all abilities (beginner to elite) and she loves that everyone has a different reason for running. When she’s not training, you can find Mei playing with her Chihuahua, planning her next meal, or researching her next big trip! Connect with Mei on Twitter and Instagram.

With a Little Help From My Friends: Race Day Tips for a Runner’s Support System. By Mei Ling. 

Marathon training is a big time commitment, not just for runners but for their families as well. While I’m out for hours on end running, my husband Dan is at home taking care of much of the day-to-day. Many of my running friends also have very supportive spouses, partners and family who make training possible by watching their kids, making dinner and more, while never complaining. Despite all of this, in the end, I’m the one who gets all of the accolades for completing a marathon. Marathon training is really a team effort, and we certainly couldn’t do it without our supporters.

In the last year and half, Dan and I have learned a lot about spectating at races and how to make the most of race day.  Here are three tips for making race day memorable, not just for you but for your spectators:

  1. Get to know the best places to spectate along the race route

When I ran the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Mei Ling Blog 2Marathon in 2013, Dan let me know that he would be at the halfway point. Anyone who has ever run the full marathon at STWM will remember the moment when half marathoners turn to run towards the finish line and the full marathoners continue on to the second half of the course. It’s one of those moments when you can’t help but think “I should have run the half.” Knowing that Dan was going to be at the halfway point helped keep me going. It was exciting to see him there and definitely lifted my spirits. He, along with my sister-in-law, also cheered for me at the 36k and 40k marks, which helped make the kilometres leading up to those points bearable. When I was starting to hit the wall at 34k I kept thinking “Just get to 36k and you’ll see Dan!”

  1. Get excited about other runners

Spectating at a race is a lot of work. Imagine standing for hours on end, cheering for strangers and looking out for your loved one. Before race day, Dan and I usually research and learn about other runners who are participating. We like to find out which elites to watch for, who is trying to break a record, and about regular people who are doing extraordinary things on race day. After the race, Dan loves to tell me stories about the other finishers he saw. He recaps who held hands while crossing the finish line, how fast elites were running and how my running friends looked when they passed him. It’s fun to hear things from his perspective and get his recap after the race.

  1. Determine what you need to hear for motivationMei Ling Blog 3

Before running STWM in 2013 Dan asked me if there were any specific words of encouragement that I wanted to hear. He asked if I wanted a “Way to go” or “You can do it”, etc. I told him I wanted to hear “Don’t poop your pants.” While “Way to go” and “You can do it” are motivating, I knew that hearing him yell “Don’t poop your pants” would make me laugh and lift my spirits. It was also his way of saying “you can do it!” Hearing him yell helped me get through the wall and go for it.

To learn more about the best places for your loved ones to watch you race at STWM, visit their Spectators page.

Cherop Returns to Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. By Paul Gains

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2013 BMW Berlin Marathon Berlin, Germany  September 29, 2013 Photo: Victah Sailer@PhotoRun Victah1111@aol.com 631-291-3409 www.photorun.NET

Photo Credit: Photo Run

TORONTO August 18th 2015. Sharon Cherop has incredible affection for the city of Toronto and the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

Her superb victory in 2010 was a turning point in her career. Now the 31 year old Kenyan has confirmed she will return to where it all began and contest this IAAF Gold Label race on October 18th.

“It changed my life completely because it was a very big victory in terms of money for me and helped my family a lot,” she says of her stunning course record of 2:22:43. “Moreover, it was my first big victory in an international marathon.

“After that I also joined (Italian agent) Gianni Demadonna’s training group in Iten. Also it took many years to run my PB and then I was able to get a bronze medal (at the 2011 IAAF World Championships) in Daegu and to win the 2012 Boston Marathon.”

Until that day in Toronto she had dabbled with the marathon. Indeed, her personal best prior to 2010 was the 2:33:53 she ran in the high altitude of Nairobi. But persistence paid off.

Following her Toronto breakthrough invitations came in from all over the world. In 2011 she placed 3rd in Boston then, wearing the Kenyan national uniform, she earned the bronze medal at the world championships in Daegu, Korea.

Cherop’s husband, Matthew Bowen, is also a marathoner of note and sometimes trains with her. He ran a personal best of 2:10:57 at the 2013 Rennes Marathon. Both were born in Marakwet but after joining up with the Demadonna training camp they have moved to Eldoret about 80 kilometres away.

“I train with the group of Gianni Demadonna under the coach Gabriele Nicola,” she explains. “Among the group are Mary Keitany (former London and New York Marathon winner), Flomena Daniel (2014 Commonwealth Games Champion), Agnes Kiprop (2:23:54 marathoner) and Helen Kirop (2014 Seoul Marathon champion). We run two times a day for 5 days a week. Normally I run 180km a week. Sometimes also 210 km a week.

2011 IAAF World Outdoor Championships Daegu, South Korea August 27-September 5, 2011 Photo: Takashi Ito@PhotoRun Victah1111@aol.com 631-741-1865 www.photorun.NET

Photo Credit: Photo Run

“We have track sessions or ‘fartlek’ or long distance training. Sometime we do runs of 40 kilometres. When we go to the track it can be 15 times 600m or 5 times 3000m, it’s a mix of long and short distances. When we go instead for the fartlek we can do 1’ fast or 2’ fast and 1’ slow or 3’ fast and 1 slow. When we go for long distance 35 kilometres or more we can try to improve the pace in the last 7 or 8 kilometres.”

Marakwet is hilly terrain and when she is preparing for hilly races, like Boston, she will return to this familiar area to train alone.

“I live in Eldoret where I have built my house but spend some time also in Marakwet my native place,” she explains.

“Of course the house was built with the money I have earned in my career. It’s a very big house with three floors. It’s on the top of a hill outside Eldoret on the way to Iten.

It’s big because I have some relatives living with me and my mother as well.”

Cherop and Bowen have a six year old daughter named Natalia. Two of her younger relatives look after her when her parents are training or traveling. Spare time that she used to have when Natalia was younger has been taken up by her daughter’s natural inquisitiveness.

“Yes I like to read novels but more and more in the last times I’m so busy with training and family issues that I don’t have much time,” she says.

“Sometimes if I’m alone traveling I read. But if Natalia is with me I should stay more with her. I like to play with her and to explain whatever she is asking. Sometimes she asks so many questions.”

While Cherop’s preparations for Toronto are so far going very well she cautions that the course record is not the primary purpose of returning to Toronto even when the bonus for setting a record is $35,000 Cdn.

Sharon Cherop Blog 4“I know that I have to prepare well and to be able to win,” she declares. Time is important but to win a race is more important. I prefer to win in Toronto in 2 hours 24 minutes than to run 2:22 in Dubai and be number five.”

At present she is affiliated with the Kenyan Armed Forces Club and though she once harboured thoughts of working for the Armed Forces after she retires from running she now has started a thriving business with her husband.

“I built many small houses in Iten near the University and we are renting to the students,” she explains. “Mathew is the one who follows the construction and all the plans and now is following the rent of the houses.”

Race Director Alan Brookes is busy assembling a field worthy of the race’s IAAF Gold Label status and Cherop can expect a challenge when she lines up on October 18th. But, there is no doubt that she returns to Toronto a far more experienced and talented marathoner than five years ago. If conditions are right and the field reacts positively there’s no reason not to expect something special from her.

Vacations and Running: Tips to Keep Your Marathon Training On Track

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TORONTO August 16th 2015. Digital Champion Danielle O’Hanley started running three years ago after signing up for a half marathon at Disney. She worked her way up through the Running Room’s training programs to a marathon clinic and 4 marathons later, 42.4k is a distance she’s still eager to master! Danielle is inspired by runners across the city of Toronto. Following the many run crews, coaching clubs, and running groups on social media pushes her to go the extra mile and keep exploring new routes. When she’s not running, you’ll find Danielle out with her friends, testing out craft beers, cross-training or checking off new restaurants from her “to try” list. Connect with Danielle on Twitter and Instagram.

Vacations and Running: Tips to Keep Your Marathon Training On Track. By Danielle O’Hanley

Training for a marathon takes months and months of preparation; when you’re preparing for a fall race, that often means you’ll be tackling your longest and hardest workouts at the height of the summer, right when cottages, camping, patios, and summer holidays are calling.

When I was training over the winter, I think I missed one, maybe two runs over a 25+ week training cycle. Miraculous, I know. So after I signed up for the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon and realized I had a busy summer of work travel, holidays and adventures ahead of me, I knew it was going to be a challenge to stay on track.

Here are some tips to consider before you get away, so you can enjoy your travels and still nail your fall race goals:

Go in with a plan

Don’t just tell yourself you’ll “fit in a few runs”. Write down your distances and workouts on a calendar, and research running routes near where you’ll be staying. Strava, Nike+ and MapMyRun have great route discovery tools, and some hotels like the Fairmont and the Shangri-La have running-specific packages for travelers. Try to think of your workouts as another chance to do some sightseeing: when I was in Vancouver recently, I never would have been able to see as much of the sea wall as I did if I hadn’t plotted my 25K long run along the coast. Finally, consider getting your runs done in the morning so you can enjoy the rest of your day with your travel companions.

Find a group to run with

There’s nothing more motivating than running Danielle O'Hanley Group Runwith a group. Did you know that every RunningRoom in the country has free runs on Wednesday and Sundays? If running with a crew is more your thing, there’s no shortage of options: Three Run Two (Chicago), East Vancouver Run Crew (Vancouver – pictured at right), the Parkdale Roadrunners (Toronto), Night Terrors Run Crew (Toronto/LA), District Running Collective (Washington, DC) all have free weekly runs  and offer great company. Take the time to do some research before you head off on your trip, and you’ll likely find a few “tour guides” and new friends.

Cross-train

If you simply can’t fit in all of your mileage while you’re away, try your best to stay active: take walking tours, go on hikes, swim at the beach. Everything counts. You’ll be surprised at how much ground you can cover in a day of strolling and shopping – download an activity tracker app on your phone if you want to keep track of your distance.

Consider working with a coach

The more you’re traveling, the harder it gets to build up your mileage, get your hill/tempo workouts in, and fuel yourself properly to train for your race. If you’re having a hard time fitting it all in, a running coach can work with you to adjust your training schedule in a way that makes sense for you. Cookie cutter training plans sometimes just don’t cut it, so if you’re dead set on your fall race goals, a coach can help you make sure you’re getting the right workouts in while you’re travelling, and keep you accountable throughout your marathon training.

 

Don’t sweat it

You’re on vacation, so don’t forget to relax. Listen to your body and be flexible with your training. Early morning flights, jet lag, and walking can be surprisingly taxing on your legs, so go ahead and pull back if you’re just not feeling it. Don’t risk injuring yourself for the sake of checking off the boxes on your training program. Try to remember that a run or two won’t make or break your training.

Balancing travel and training is possible – it just takes a little bit of planning. Ease back into your training once you’re back, and keep your eyes on the goal: crossing the finish line October 18!

Kenya’s Laban Korir To Defend Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon Title. By Paul Gains

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Laban-onCourseTORONTO August 13th 2015. Laban Korir will return to the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon October 18th to defend his 2014 title and, if the conditions are right, to tackle the course record.

The 29 year old Kenyan surprised everyone, himself included, when he ran away from the field a year ago to claim victory in 2:08:15 under very chilly conditions. With a personal best of 2:06:05 from the 2011 Amsterdam Marathon, Korir is a quality marathon runner and an early favourite to win this year’s event.

The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon has been awarded IAAF Gold Label status for 2015, an enormous honour for the race organizers.

“First I want thank the organizers for inviting me again to Toronto,” Korir said from his training base in Kaptagat, high up in the Rift Valley. “This year I’m there to defend.  At the moment I’m ok and the body is responding very well. If everything goes well, as it is at the moment, and the weather will be ok, not like last year, I will come for the course record.”

That record is Derissa Chimsa’s (Ethiopia) 2:07:05 from 2013. Race Director Alan Brookes is offering a course record bonus of C$35,000 for a new record as well as an additional C$5,000 for beating the Canadian All-Comers record of 2:06:54 which was set by Ethiopia’s Yemane Tsegay at the 2014 Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon.

Korir is part of the Global Sports Communications training camp in Kaptagat which includes fellow Kenyans Eliud Kipchoge, winner of the 2015 London and 2014 Chicago marathons, and Geoffrey Kamworor, the 2014 IAAF World Cross Country Champion. Another notable name in the group is Uganda’s Stephen Kiprotich, the 2012 Olympic marathon champion.

Training up to 200 kilometres a week with this talented group has provided huge motivation for Korir to rise to the very top of elite marathoners.

“Eliud has inspired me a lot,” Korir admits. “He is my role model.  He used to teach us many things on how to succeed in life and also how to train. He is a legend, by the way. After training sessions we meet at the camp and have lunch or tea and discuss how the session went.

“My major goal in my career is to run (a marathon in) 2:05 and Laban-finishHugfollow the footsteps of top guys in Kenya like Eliud and the rest,” he reveals.

Earlier this year Korir ran 2:07:54 to finish 6th in the Paris Marathon then, following a comfortable recovery period has begun his buildup for Toronto. He has fond memories of his visit last year.

“According to my manager and my coach, to stay longer in this career you need a good plan. Two marathons a year is ok for an athlete’s future,” Korir explains.

“I chose Toronto this year because I need to defend my title. I also like the fun people of Toronto, they are so cheerful. What I enjoyed last year was the course and also the cheering. What I still remember is the great finish and jumping into that guy at the finishing line.”

A representative of Toronto’s East African community handed the athletes national flags as they crossed the line and Korir leaped into his arms in a show of jubilation. Also at the finish line were members of the Kenyan High Commission who celebrated Korir’s victory. After the race Korir joined fellow Kenyans and Ethiopians at an Ethiopian restaurant for a post-race dinner which has become a tradition at the Toronto Waterfront race.

Like his compatriots Korir has used prize money from races – he earned $20,000 for the victory in Toronto last year – to buy land on which to grow produce for his family and to take to market. When he is not training or resting between sessions he enjoys time at home with his family.

“Life in Kenya is great,” Korir reveals. “After training I like resting and watching Nigerian movies like ‘2 Rats’. They are funny guys from Nigeria.

“I sell my products – maize and tea – to factories in Kenya. I sell some of it at the market and the rest is for my family. For now I have no other business. Maybe in the future after the running career I will.”

Race Director Alan Brookes has already announced that two time Canadian Olympian Eric Gillis who ran a personal best of 2:11:21 last year in Toronto, will return October 18th marking his fifth appearance at the race. In addition to the IAAF Gold Label status this year’s Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon will serve as the Canadian Marathon Championship.

For More Information and to register: STWM.ca 

Healthy Eating: Smart Nutrition Tips for Runners

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TORONTO August 11th 2015. Digital Champion Vicky Leung started running in 2008 to lose weight, and now she does it because it makes her feel better both physically and mentally. Vicky loves the sense of accomplishment she feels after crossing the finish line, knowing all her training and hard work has paid off. When she’s not running, you’ll find Vicky road biking, exploring new places to eat, watching films and travelling. Connect with Vicky on Twitter and Instagram.

Healthy Eating: Smart Nutrition Tips for Runners. By Vicky Leung 

_MG_8954Many people know I started running to lose weight. It was easy, and for a while I was able toshed the pounds. But over time, I wasn’t getting the results I wanted. I was putting in the miles but rewarding myself with food. Wasn’t I allowed to eat whatever I wanted if I was running four to five times a week? The truth was, I was taking in more calories than I needed, and not making the best food choices either. That meant I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted on the scale or out on the road . Does this sound familiar? Here are several suggestions I used to clean up my eating and stay on top of my nutritional game.

Watch your sugar intake

These aren’t the naturally occurring sugars you find in fruits and veggies. It’s the refined sugar that’s hidden in processed foods. It all adds up over the course of a day – the sugar you put into your morning coffee, granola bars, salad dressings, fruit bottom yogurts and pre-packaged oatmeal to name a few. The best way to avoid eating excess amounts of sugar is to not buy highly processed foods in the first place. Keep your fridge and cupboards stocked with healthy foods and you’ll be less tempted to eat badly. Moderation is the key – eat healthy and nutritious meals for a majority of the week and you won’t feel guilty about indulging in an occasional treat.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water in addition to any other fluids you consume. Water is beneficial for the body in many ways – it helps with digestion, keeps your joints lubricated, flushes out toxins, prevents fatigue and, most importantly it helps with weight loss management. Drinking water will keep you feeling full, which controls your food cravings. So stay hydrated even when you aren’t exercising. I aim for a minimum of eight glasses of water a day; you may need more depending on your level of activity.

Eat protein

Your protein requirements will increase as you are training for your race so make sure to have a source of protein with every meal. The two major benefits of protein are that it helps to rebuild lean muscles, which aids in recovery time. Secondly, it keeps you feeling satiated longer, which can help to prevent overeating. Some of my favourites include eggs, quinoa, chicken, fish, lentils and edamame.

Re-fuel post run

Your body needs carbs and protein to begin the recovery process after a long run. Try to eat a small snack within 30 to 60 minutes of your workout session. On my runs that are shorter than an hour, I keep it simple with a glass of milk or peanut butter and apple slices. For longer runs, I have the glass of milk along with a small snack like a hardboiled egg or yogurt. And, if you like having treats, be mindful of what you’re eating post-run. Just because you ran for 30 minutes, doesn  mean you’ve earned a donut. As my physiotherapist Dev says, “You can’t out-train your eating.”

Eat breakfast

There’s a lot of discussion over whether eating breakfast makes a difference when trying to lose weight. For me it’s a no brainer – I eat breakfast because it gives me energy to get through the day. It also keeps me from snacking on sweets later on. Most mornings, I go with a protein shake or overnight oats – they’re easy to make ahead of time so you can grab and go in the morning

Here’s a breakfast recipe you can use to start your day off right. Good luck with your training, and I’ll see you at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on October 18.

Vicky Leung Blog PostBlueberry and Maple Overnight Oats

(adapted from BGH.com: http://www.bhg.com/recipes/breakfast/overnight-oats/

3/4 cup Vanilla flavoured Greek yogurt
2/3 cup oats
2/3 cup cashew milk
1 tsp chia seeds
1 tsp maple syrup (or honey)
1/3 cup fresh blueberries

Combine the above ingredients in a bowl, mix well, cover and place into the fridge overnight. Serve the following day and add additional sweetners or liquids if necessary. I like adding some lemon zest, a pinch of cinnamon and more blueberries to mine. The oats can be heated in the microwave if you like.

Alan’s Journal: #PANAMANIA. We did it! But was it a Tipping Point?

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TORONTO August 4th 2015

Hey fellow runners;

Wow! What a month we’ve had since my last Journal edition on July 7th! It was a remarkable month, overwhelmingly dominated by the Pan Am Games, and I think we are all enormously impressed with the way the Games brought us all together. #UnidosJugamos! As well, the Games showcased sport, and our sport of running and athletics in particular, as never before in Toronto.

HUGE thanks to TO2015, and to all of you who gave of your time, energy and passion to bring our city alive for a month! Special shout outs to:

  • The Canada Running Series team – the extended family, not just the full-time crew — who organized 5 road events in 8 days, on top of the regular, gruelling CRS season. There were plenty of 3am Crew Calls, plus a few all-nighters for some. BIG ups to Heather and Chris who have put in MAJOR hours over the last 2 years in preparation. Thanks to Toronto Olympic and other club members, plus our regular support teams who stepped up big time!
  • 08-04-IMG_5657ALL of you who came out to cheer, especially our awesome Toronto run crews who set up CHEER SITES on-course for both Women’s & Men’s Marathons: Pace & Mind, Night Terrors, Parkdale RR, Tribe Fitness, plus a number of other clubs. YOU WERE GREAT! The first thing Catherine Watkins said to me after her finish, was how amazing the support was for her out there. Catherine’s post-Pan Am blog is a must-read: “Running the marathon for Team Canada on home soil was definitely a highlight in my life.“.
  • 08-04-IMG_5337The athletes: our current CRS Women’s champion Rachel Hannah and Catherine Watkins; Rob Watson and Kip Kangogo; and Evan Dunfee and Inaki Gomez who brought home Gold and Silver in the 20K Walk. I think we were all so thrilled to see our regular CRS friends on the world stage, in our hometown, in an event(s) that we were all part of! And on the track too, with SO many fine performances up at York! While Lanni’s bronze in the 10,000m and Alex Genest’s Silver in the 3000m steeplechase were huge highlights for me, there were just so many others. It was an electrifying week on the track in between the 2 marathon and race walk weekends.
  • 08-04-IMG_4537The neighbourhoods, the broader community that was “IGNITED”, like our own St. Lawrence ‘hood, through TO2015’s “Ignite” programme and PanAmania. St. Lawrence’s 41 Neighbours book is a great example, and a special, unique souvenir that we were able to share. There are still a few copies left to buy on Amazon! 
  • Our friends from The Americas who came to visit us in our town! It was really special for me to see friends and strengthen ties with Mexico and Peru and our neighbours from USA – bienvenidos y gracias Gus Borges, Rodolfo Gomez, Gladys, Raul, Vianey for all the special moments. THANKS Mike Nishi and Stan Coburn for being part of it all!

What was YOUR highlight?

08-04-IMG_5684It was glorious to see sport taking centre stage, in Canada’s largest metropolis, in a city known globally for arts and culture, for TIFF or Luminato or Nuit Blanche rather than sport. The City’s support has traditionally been given to these deserving, iconic cultural events, but with scant attention paid to sport [other than pro sports like the Leafs, Jays or Raptors]. I’d like to think this past month has more than adequately demonstrated that “SPORT MATTERS”, and that we can have both arts/culture and sport/healthy lifestyles. As the ASICS name represents: Anima Sana In Corpore Sano—a healthy mind in a healthy body.

Were the Pan Am Games a “Tipping Point”?

We’ve heard lots about the “LEGACY of the Games”. For the most part, I think it’s safe to say, the conversation has been about infrastructure legacy – – the fabulous new neighbourhood of Corktown, including a brand new Y and Corktown Common; the high-speed train link to Pearson; the outstanding renovation of Queen’s Quay to showcase Toronto’s waterfront; Union Station expansion. I hope, I think, it is much more than that. I’d like to believe that the Games got our city moving and brought it ALIVE, through a marvellous combination of sport, culture and activation. For sure, we have a new Y, a new track, a new field hockey field, a new velodrome, a new pool. But there’s something new in the air as well – -the “SPIRIT OF THE GAMES”. And that is perhaps the greatest legacy.

I hope we can keep hold of this spirit, and carry the momentum forward to Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. STWM is a wonderful vehicle for sustaining the momentum. It is a truly world class sports/athletics/running event that is with us every year. It brings 25,000+ participants from 60+ countries. It brings top international competition to race against Canada’s best. It ignites a dozen of our great Waterfront neighbourhoods. It generates over $30 million of economic activity annually for Toronto, and raises ~$4 million a year for our local charities.

08-04-IMG_5510For ALL of you involved in the Pan Ams, I offer an invitation to keep the momentum going at STWM this October. Join our CRS gang, and our Canadian stars like Krista and Eric. Come RUN [or walk] one of the STWM distances – they cover the range, from 5K to 42k. VOLUNTEER. We need more than 3,000 every year to make it a success. And in the words of run crew legend Charlie Dark, “IF YOU DON’T RUN, YOU MUST CHEER!!” Let’s line the Course with hundreds of thousands of awesome cheer squads! It’s only through our combined energy that we can sustain the pace, build a true legacy for the Games, and show the world what a great running city Toronto is – we’re NOT a one-hit wonder! As Vancouver’s Catherine Watkins wrote in her post-Pan Am blog, “Running the marathon for Team Canada on home soil was definitely a highlight in my life.” There’s something VERY special about having a hometown, CANADIAN big-city marathon! TORONTO, we CAN do it!

Enough. I need to sleep, recover. As the mantra on the new STWM training singlets from ASICS says, “EAT, SLEEP, TRAIN, REPEAT.”

Alan
ps. Let’s stay connected on social media! Twitter & Instagram @alnbrookes
pps. I’d be remiss if I didn’t offer the Insider Tip of the month! For everyone building up your long runs, Steve Lennon’s latest video blog is a MUST WATCH!  

Couch to Boston

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Digital Champion Ben Lariviere started running in March 2013 with the motivation to get fit, stay fit, and challenge himself. In October of 2014, Ben ran his first sub-3 hour marathon at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon and this past April he ran his first Boston Marathon! His biggest inspiration to be a better runner is to inspire his family, friends and fellow runners to take up the sport and be the best they can be! When he’s not running, you’ll find Ben spending time with his family or working out at the gym. Follow Ben on Twitter and Instagram. 

Couch to Boston. By Ben Lariviere 

Ben Blog Before and AfterTORONTO July 29th 2015 . I never thought I’d be a runner. In fact, before I started running I used to say “look at that guy running he must be crazy, I’d never do that.” My whole life changed in March 2013 when I finally had enough of the lifestyle that I was living. I had become too comfortable in life and was treating my body like a trash can. I smoked a pack a day for 20 years, was an avid drinker and had poor eating habits. I  woke up one day looking at myself and realized something had to change. My choices were affecting me, my loved ones, and also my personal health. I had high blood pressure, was on cholesterol medicine and was overweight.

I quit my bad habits all at once: smoking, drinking, and eating unhealthy. Luckily, I had a great support system from my wife, family and friends. I also started working out at home 3 times a week with weights and the elliptical. Once the nicer weather came around, a friend of mine suggested I register for a Tough Mudder event so I would have a goal to reach for. In my mind, I was just hoping to survive the race! Know that running would be a part of my obstace race, I decided to give it a shot in my training. I didn’t know anything about where to start, I just ran through town, not caring about pace or distance. I just wanted to see how far I could run, and on my first try I managed 10k.

5 months later, after I had lost 35 pounds and completed my first race,  a friend told me that I should run the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon. Convinced that I should “go big or go home”, I signed up for the full marathon and completed it in a time of 3:09:29. I wasn’t try to qualify for Boston, my goal was to finish, but I was happy with my result and I was hooked on running! Over the next year I kept training, trying to do better and entering more races. I ran the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon in 3:03:34 and then the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon again, with my fastest time to date 2:59:06. I realized that if you work hard enough, and never give up, anything is possible. I never thought in a million years I would be running the Boston Marathon, the holy grain of races.

I ran the Boston Marathon in 3:18:19 on April 20th of this year Ben Blog Boston Marathonand it was an epic event, to saythe least, with all the people, runners, and the incredible atmosphere surrounding the event. Race day itself was tough with terrible weather, and I was unprepared for the hills along the course, but nevertheless it was a dream come true and I can’t wait to return in 2016. I will be ready next year, no matter what comes at me! So far, I have been a self-taught runner and I want to reach others out there like me to inspire them to start running and reach their goals. Running has changed my life and I can honestly say that I am “that crazy runner” and I’m proud of it! I’ll see you on the start line of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sunday October 18th!

No One Left Behind: Running with an Urban Crew

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Digital Champion Cheryl Kozoriz has always been active and health-conscious, but never athletic. As a shy, introverted kid, track and field day gave her anxiety attacks in grade school, so it wasn’t until 2013 that she took up running! After only three short runs, she was in love and last year she completed the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Half-Marathon. This was a major accomplishment for Cheryl, both in running and in life. When she’s not running, Cheryl is the marketing and communications manager for GlucksteinHome. She also enjoys cooking, eating, and travelling. Connect with Cheryl on Twitter and Instagram.

No One Left Behind: Running with an Urban Crew. By Cheryl Kozoriz

Blog Cheryl Kozoriz 2Running initially appealed to me partly because it’s a solo pursuit. A dedicated introvert, I’ve always avoided team sports and group undertakings in general. When I first started running, I quickly fell in love with long, slow, thought-clearing runs and intense speed sessions where I ran against myself. After a year of running and training alone, something shifted: I actually started to crave the company of other runners. After creeping a few local crews on Instagram, I worked up the nerve to join Night Terrors Run Crew on New Year’s Day for their Thursday night run. After a warm welcome, I found myself in the middle of a single pack pushing the pace through icy city streets as darkness fell over us. My earphones were out, my energy was up. It was exhilarating and I was hooked on that crew life.

Urban run crews have been popping up in cities around the world for a few years now and while they’re as varied as the runners who join them, crews generally differ from traditional running groups in a few ways: crews mainly run at night, they’re drop-in and free to join, they welcome both new and seasoned runners, they’re not affiliated with a particular store or brand, and they operate under a “no one left behind” mandate.

Here are some reasons why you may want to seek out a run crew:

Get Social: Obviously running with a group is more social than running alone, but you can also look forward to post-run beers or tacos as well as pre-race carb-load potlucks when you run with a crew.

Rut Relief: Running solo, I tend to stick to the same old routes either out of habit or convenience. Run crews keep things fresh with different routes week after week.

Blog Cheryl Kozoriz 3Get a Push: As a city runner, I’m intimidated by trails and hills but my crew has pushed me to embrace them. New routes, new terrain, faster paces, longer distances – there are so many ways a crew can help you grow as a runner.

Stay Accountable: If you’re a runner who has trouble staying on track, the rain-or-shine regularity of running crews will appeal to you.

Travel Perks: One of the best things about travelling is the opportunity to run in a new city. Your hometown crew can hook you up with a local one, guaranteeing you not only a solid route in a potentially unfamiliar city but immediate access to a new community.

#CrewLove: On the pavement, on race day, and through injuries, crew support is like no other support out there. They’ll help you chase your goals, cross the finish line and find your next start line. They get it and they’ve got you.

If you’re interested in running with a crew, there are many to choose from. Here are just a few options in Toronto:

The Food Runners [http://thefoodrunners.co/]: The Food Runners is a group of rockstar restaurant industry pros whose unique schedule led them meet up at the Nike Loft on Richmond Street every Wednesday morning. I can only imagine the delicious intel that gets passed around on these runs but thankfully, they do share some recipes through their refuel project [http://thefoodrunners.co/refuel/].

Parkdale Roadrunners [http://www.parkdaleroadrunners.com/]: PDRR started four years ago and they’ve grown steadily since. So much so that they’ve just moved to the Gladstone Hotel for their Tuesday night meet-up point. On Saturdays they focus on women’s running with a ladies-only morning run. If you’ve ever raced in Toronto, you’ve experienced their epic confetti-infused cheer station.

East York Runners [https://twitter.com/eytrunners]: If you’re in the east end, check out this group of social athletes who train and race together three times a week. With runs that range from beginner to long distance, most East York members are experienced runners but they welcome newer runners who are working their way up to a continuous 5K.

Night Terrors Run Crew [https://instagram.com/nightterrorsrun]: This is my crew, so I’m totally biased, but they’re awesome. With chapters in Toronto and Los Angeles, NTRC Toronto runs from Trinity Bellwoods Park three times a week, exploring the entire city with innovative routes that incorporate urban landmarks, art installations or festival spots – and badass photo opps. We’re in it for the run, but I know the Instagram shots are a pretty big draw too.

Running communities are growing and thriving across cities around the world and urban run crews are driving the momentum. Bridge the Gap is an international gathering of run crews that occurs at a major marathon every year and this year, it will be hosted in Toronto at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I’m looking forward to connecting with crews from all over! In the meantime, this video produced by Berlin Braves might inspire you to find your own crew.

Photo Credits: ckozoriz_header.jpg: William Chaupiz / Night Terrors Run Crew / ckozoriz1.jpg: Richard Kuchinsky / Night Terrors Run Crew / ckozoriz2.jpg: William Chaupiz / Night Terrors Run Crew

Are YOU up for a Guinness World Record at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon?

By | Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon | No Comments

TORONTO July 16th 2015

Are YOU up for a Guinness World Record at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon? It’s everyone’s chance for marathon glory!

Guinness The Flash

Fancy your chances as the world’s fastest marathon in a Superhero outfit? Or the fastest “joggling 3 objects”? What about in a baseball or lacrosse uniform? GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS is offering YOU a unique opportunity to become an official record holder on October 18th, at Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. It’s another great reason to run a marathon, and glory awaits you!

It’s an opportunity to everyone who toes the Start line. “The wonderful thing about GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS is that they literally give everyone a chance to be a record holder,” says Race Director Alan Brookes. “I think we’ve built a reputation for record-setting and we’ve built quite a fondness for GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS along the way.”

The Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon’s record setting run began in 2004 when Beaches resident, Michal Kapral set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS achievement of  2:49:44 for the “Fastest Marathon While Pushing a Pram” with daughter Annika on board. Michal returned in 2005 to set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for “joggling” – running 3:07:49 while juggling 3 balls the whole way! Instantly, a new sport was born and some great contests against Boston’s Zach Warren followed. Zach captured the record in Philadelphia in late 2005 and bettered it in 2006, before Michal reclaimed it on Toronto’s Waterfront in 2007 with a fabulous 2:50:12, which still stands today.

Since then, Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon has seen a wonderful assortment of GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS achievements. Jefferson the Dog set a mark for the “Fastest Marathon as a Mascot” [4:16] in 2010. Stephane Hetherington ran a very impressive 2:33:58 to set a new record for “Fastest Marathon in a Superhero Costume” in 2012. Maple Leafs fan Paul Statchuk has set truly Canadian records, first with the “Fastest Marathon in a full Hockey Kit (including stick)” in 2012 [4:08:43]; then with “Fastest Marathon in a Lacrosse Uniform” in 2013 [3:46:48].

Guinness Jeremiah

Last October, Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon runners set no less than FIVE new records, highlighted by Lindsay Santagato, Bridget Burns and Jeremiah Sacay. Lindsay ran the 42k in full firefighter uniform, including the 45lb oxygen tank and full bunker suit, to set a record of 5:38:51. She was inspired and driven the whole way by running in memory of her brother Ryan who died of acute liver failure in 2009 at just 20 years old; and Lindsay ran to raise funds for the Canadian Liver Foundation as well as the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title. Bridget represented High Park Zoo to clock 4:08:17 and the fastest marathon dressed as a Zookeeper. She broke the record while also carrying around a bag of stuffed animals to give out to spectators along the course! Jeremiah represented his favourite Toronto Blue Jays to set a new record in a baseball uniform [3:47:45].

In addition to solidifying your spot in GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS history, those attempting a new record will also be in the running for one of Scotiabank’s “Best Costume” Awards. Winners will take home cash prizes for their charities, as well as glory and lots of great media exposure!

“The marathon is just such a wonderful community festival,” says Brookes. “It’s about joy, achievement, and celebration. There is so much energy and excitement; and the record-setting runners, the costume and charity runners are a vital part of this. Fellow-runners and spectators alike love the atmosphere they bring. We hope to see lots of runners chasing a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title this year, and going the distance for their charities in fun costumes”.

If you’d like to be part of record-breaking history this year, please email press@guinnessworldrecords.com  and jenna@canadarunningseries.com no later than September 1, 2015.

Please note that GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS participants must be entered in the STWM event (REGISTER TODAY) before registering online at www.guinnessworldrecords.com

APPENDIX. Complete List of Current Guinness World Records for the Marathon [as of August 24, 2014]. Some records may be faster than time listed below. Stay tuned for updated list. 

Fastest marathon by a mascot – Male – 3 hr 51 min 50 sec; Female – 4 hr 02 min 56 sec
Fastest marathon in military desert uniform – Male – 3 hr 50 min 31 sec
Fastest marathon as an insect – Male — 3 hr 32 min 41 sec; Female – 3 hr 24 min 10 sec
Fastest marathon backwards on inline skates – Male — 1 hr 39 min 59 sec
Fastest marathon barefoot – Male – 2 hr 15 min 16.2 sec; Female – 2 hr 29 min 45 sec
Fastest marathon by a linked team – Male — 2 hr 55 min 24 sec
Fastest marathon by a marching band – 6 hr 56 min 48 sec
Fastest marathon carrying a 20-lb pack – Male – 3 hr 12 min 29 sec;
Female — 5 hr 07 min 56 sec
Fastest marathon carrying a 40-lb pack – Male — 3 hr 25 min 21 sec
Fastest marathon carrying a 60-lb pack – Male — 4 hr 39 min 9 sec
Fastest marathon carrying an 80-lb pack – Male — 5 hr 58 min 58 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a baby – Male — 2 hr 51 min 18 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a book character – Male — 2 hr 42 min 17 sec;
Female – 3 hr 39 min 49 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a bottle – Male – 3 hr 31 min 57 sec;
Female – 4 hr 54 min 36 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a boxer – Male — 3 hr 35 min 34 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a cartoon character – Male — 2 hr 46 min 40 sec;
Female — 3 hr 28 min 26 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a clown – Male — 2 hr 50 min 44 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a commercial brand character
Fastest marathon dressed as a cowboy – Male — 3 hr 09 min 09 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a crustacean – Male – 3 hr 55 min 13 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a dairy product – Male — 3 hr 09 min 58 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a doctor — Male – 2 hr 53 min 11 sec;
Female – 3 hr 54 min 06 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a fairy – Male — 2 hr 49 min 44 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a fruit – Male – 2 hr 58 min 20 sec;
Female – 4 hr 32 min 28 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a gingerbread man — Male — 3 hr 42 min 20 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a golfer – Male – 3 hr 10 min 4 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a jester – Male – 3 hr 1 min 56 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a jockey – Male – 3 hr 08 min 30 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a leprechaun – Male – 3 hr 09 min 40 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a lifeguard – Male — 3 hr 00 min 01 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a logo – Male — 3 hr 37 min 14 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a love heart – Male — 3 hr 28 min 21 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a monk – Male — 3 hr 29 min 32 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a Mr. Potato Head – Male – 3 hr 38 min 20 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a nun – Male — 3 hr 17 min 58 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a nut – Male – 4 hr 29 min 36 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a playing card — Female — 4 hr 23 min 57 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a postman – Male — 3 hr 47 min 35 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a Roman soldier – Male — 2 hr 57 min
Fastest marathon dressed as a sailor – Male — 2 hr 52 min 32 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a shoe – Female — 4 hr 40 min 56 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a star – Male — 4 hr 46 min 45 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a sumo wrestler – Male — 3 hr 51 min 54 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a tap/faucet – Male — 3 hr 52 min 09 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a telephone box – Male — 5 hr 54 min 52 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a television character — Male — 2 hr 49 min 51 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a toilet – Male — 2 hr 57 min 28 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a vegetable – Male — 2 hr 59 min 33 sec;
Female — 3 hr 47 min 15 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a videogame character – Male — 3 hr 29 min 41 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a Viking – Male — 3 hr 12 min 11 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as a waiter – Male — 2 hr 47 min
Fastest marathon dressed as a zombie – Male — 3 hr 18 min 38 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as an astronaut – Male — 3 hr 08 min 45 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as an organ — Male — 3 hr 36 min 42 sec;
Female — 3 hr 52 min 02 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as Elvis – Male — 2 hr 42 min 52 sec
Fastest marathon dressed as Santa Claus – Male — 2 hr 55 min 50 sec;
Female — 3 hr 43 min 20 sec
Fastest marathon dressed in an ice hockey – Male — 4 hr 8 min 43 sec
Fastest marathon dribbling a basketball – Male — 3 hr 23 min 42 sec;
Female — 4 hr 28 min 11 sec
Fastest marathon dribbling a football – Male — 3 hr 29 min 55 sec
Fastest marathon dribbling two basketballs – Male — 4 hr 39 min 12 sec
Fastest marathon flipping a pancake – Male — 3 hr 2 min 27 sec
Fastest marathon in a bomb disposal suit Male — 6 hr 55 min 59 sec
Fastest marathon in a fireman’s uniform – Male — 4 hr 39 min 13 sec
Fastest marathon in a four-person costume — 6 hr 29 min 44 sec
Fastest marathon in a full-body animal costume – Male — 3 hr 31 min 36 sec
Fastest marathon in a lacrosse kit – Male — 3 hr 46 min 58 sec
Fastest marathon in a martial arts suit – Male — 3 hr 21 min 31 sec;
Female – 3 hr 30 min 14 sec
Fastest marathon in a military dress uniform – Male — 3 hr 47 min 14 sec
Fastest marathon in a nurse’s uniform — Male — 2 hr 48 min 24 sec;
Female — 3 hr 13 min 58 sec
Fastest marathon in a police uniform – Male — 3 hr 09 min 52 sec
Fastest marathon in a straitjacket – Male — 3 hr 49 min 48 sec
Fastest marathon in a suit – Male — 2 hr 58 min 03 sec
Fastest marathon in a two-person pantomime costume – Male — 4 hr 49 min 18 sec
Fastest marathon in a wedding dress – Male — 3 hr 00 min 54 sec;
Female — 3 hr 16 min 44 sec
Fastest marathon in an American football kit – Male — 3hr 45 min 30 sec
Fastest marathon in an animal – Male — 2 hr 48 min 29 sec;
Female – 3 hr 18 min 09 sec
Fastest marathon in cricket uniform – Male — 4 hr 16 min 21 sec
Fastest marathon in film character costume – Male — 2 hr 42 min 52 sec;
Female — 3 hr 53 min 40 sec
Fastest marathon in full military uniform – Male — 3 hr 49 min 21 sec;
Female — 4 hr 54 min 15 sec
Fastest marathon in school uniform – Male — 2 hr 50 min 17 sec;
Female — 3 hr 14 min 34 sec
Fastest marathon in scout uniform – Male — 3 hr 44 min 33 sec
Fastest marathon in superhero costume – Male — 2 hr 33 min 58 sec;
Female — 2 hr 48 min 51 sec
Fastest marathon on crutches – Male — 6 hr 24 min 48 sec
Fastest marathon on stilts — Male — 6 hr 50 min 02 sec
Fastest marathon pushing a pram – Male — 2 hr 42 min 21 sec;
Female — 3 hr 31 min 45 sec
Fastest marathon run dressed as a snowman – Male — 3 hr 47 min 39 sec
Fastest marathon running backwards – Male — 3 hr 43 min 39 sec
Fastest marathon running with an egg and spoon – Male — 3 hr 47 min
Fastest marathon skipping – Male — 4 hr 28 min 48 sec
Fastest marathon skipping without a rope – Male –5 hr 55 min 13 sec
Fastest marathon wearing a gas mask – Male — 3 hr 28 min 38 sec
Fastest marathon wearing a wetsuit – Male — 3 hr 25 min 00 sec
Fastest marathon wearing armour – Male — 6 hr 46 min 59 sec
Fastest marathon wearing chainmail (upper body) – Male — 5 hr 49 min 07 sec.
Fastest marathon wearing flip flops – Male — 3 hr 47 min 33 sec