Running News Daily

The Hershey 10K Race was cancelled because of snow yet there is no snow in the current forecast?

On the website Penn Live the headline (at 12:25pm April 5) read: Predicted snowfall won't stop Hershey 10K. "Even with snow in the forecast, more than 2,000 runners are expected to participate in Saturday's Hershey 10K." The article ended with this quote, "Runners and mail carriers have one thing in common. Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat or gloom of night keeps them from swift completion." Then one hour later Penn Live updated their story: "The safety of our runners, volunteers and guests is always our primary focus,” says the organizers. “With the inclement weather predicted for Saturday, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the Hershey 10K in the interest of safety for all concerned. Registered participants will be able to still pick-up their runner's gifts, including, t-shirt, recovery bag and medal on Friday, April 6 from 12-6 p.m. at the Ice Palace." In checking the current forecast for Saturday, there is no snow predicted now, the temperatures will be between 28 and 44 and there will be winds of 12mph. "I don't see why this race was cancelled," says Bob Anderson. "A race should go on rain or shine with only a few exceptions. The current predicted running conditions sound almost perfect except for the wind. Of course, things could change for the worse." (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

Gunder Hagg's world records stood for almost a Decade

DID YOU KNOW: Gunder Hagg set over a dozen middle distance world records at events ranging from 1500 to 5000 meters, including three at both the 1500 meters and the mile, one at 3000 meters and one at 5000 meters. It all began on New Year’s Eve 1918 when Gunder Hägg was born on a small farm in the forests of northern Sweden. From a fairly early age he had to help out on the family farm where the main income came from timber work. His school was three kilometers away a distance which he walked, ran or travelled by ski (in the winter) every day. Hagg and fellow Swede, Arne Andersson, lowered the record for the mile to just over four minutes (4:01.4). Both athletes set three world records for the mile. However, Hagg had the last word when he ran 4:01.4 in Malmö, Sweden in 1945 (Hagg’s record was not broken until Roger Bannister ran the first sub-4 mile in Oxford in 1954). Hagg was also the first man to run a sub-14 minute 5000m. All these performances were run on cinder tracks. He certainly made his mark in athletics history: At the main distances (1500m, 1 Mile and 5000m) his records stood until 1954, for about a decade! Gunder Hagg passed away November 27, 2004 at the age of 85. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

Bob Anderson's passion for running is contagious and some may even say, a bit fanatical

In this episode of Runners Connect Podcast we speak with Bob Anderson photographer, filmmaker and founder of Runner’s World Magazine, My Best Runs and runner-finisher of a grueling year-long race challenge that consisted of one race a week for 50 weeks. He averaged 6:59/mile pace for the 350.8 miles at age 64 which was 81% age-graded.

The next year at age 65 he ran the Boston Marathon finishing in 3:32:17. Bob started running at age 15 and two years later launched Distance Running News, a 1,000 copy magazine that later blossomed into the 2.5 million monthly readers periodical known as Runner’s World.

But, as successful as Runner’s World became, it was not without a cost which we learn about in this interview. Bob shares personal ups and downs with running, especially as they relate to his early creation of Runner’s World.

We move on to discuss his epic film A Long Run detailing his one year race challenge and featuring many of Bob’s running peers including Paula Radcliffe and Bill Rogers; the creation of a new running event called Double Racing; and the development of an informational and interactive website, mybestruns.com which features the best, most interesting and unique races from around the world.

Bob’s passion for running is contagious and, some may even say, a bit fanatical as detailed in the year long 50 race challenge documented in the film A Long Run.

His ideas and direct involvement in fitness continue into the current decade where Bob broke into a new race age category, 70 plus. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Bob Anderson.

(04/06/2018) ⚡AMP
by Stephanie Atwood

British Milers Club is launching the Bannister Mile Series

The British Milers Club is staging a new Bannister Mile Series in memory of Sir Roger Bannister, who died last month aged 88. Sir Roger ran the world’s first sub-4 minute Mile clocking 3:59.4 in Oxford on May 6 and he was also founding president of the British Milers Club. The 2018 series kicks off with men’s and women’s ‘City Mile’ races at Lee Valley in north London on May 9 – just three days after the anniversary of Sir Roger’s famous feat. The BMC is the premier middle distance athletics club in the United Kingdom. Through its racing program, training courses and coaching articles they aim to improve the world standing of UK Middle Distance running. The BMC was established in 1963. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

A 72 Grandfather, from Woodstock is set to take on the Maraton Des Sables

A grandfather from Woodstock is set to take on a 156 mile trek through the Sahara Desert in Morocco. Mahmut Hilmi, 72, will compete in the Marathon des Sables this week, becoming the third oldest man to take on the endurance challenge. Over the course of the race, participants will cover 250km in seven days, carrying all their food and equipment. Temperatures in the desert can soar to 50C. The adventurous fundraiser will use the challenge to raise cash for two charities, Macmillan Cancer Support and Hope for Children. He said: “I am looking forward to doing this event, with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. “I hope that managing the extreme physical and emotional demands presented will be a fulfilling experience. “Despite my advancing years I am in good shape for the event.” The challenge will see competitors take on a wide variety of terrains as they cover the set distance. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

Can Kenyan´s Paul Lonyangata win the Paris Marathon Again?

The Paris Marathon course starts at the Champs-Elysees and then heads toward the Place de la Concorde and continue through the city to finish at Foch Avenue. Along with the Berlin Marathon and the London Marathon, it is one of the most popular marthons in Europe. For this years race this weekend Kenya's Paul Lonyangata will be looking to retain his title. The Kenyan could become the first man to win back-to-back titles since Steve Brace of Great Britain in 1989 and 1990. Last year, he improved his personal best to 2:06:10. On the women’s side, the battle for the victory should, on paper, come down to a duel between Amane Gobena of Ethiopia and Ruth Chepngetich of Kenya. Gobena, second in the event three years ago, clocked a best of 2:21:51 in Tokyo in 2016. She also won in Mumbai in January. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

Ethiopian women's runners looking at dominating the Rome Marathon Again

The 24th edition of the Rome Marathon route start and finish at the Fori Imperiali. The race circle around Ostiense up to Ponte Milvio in Flaminio, zig-zaging across the Tevere. It is perhaps one of the most scenic marathon routes, runners will pass by major monuments such as St. Peter’s and Piazza del Popolo. For this year's race Ethiopia will be looking to add to its success. In the women’s race, runners from the east African nation have won on nine occasions and look set to continue their proud tradition. Twenty-four year-old Rahma Tusa will be looking to win the women’s race for the third consecutive year after triumphs in 2016 in 2:28:49 and in 2017 in 2:27:21. If she achieves this feat, she would tie her compatriot Firehiwot Dado, who won in the Eternal City consecutive titles in 2009, 2010 and 2011 and went on to win the New York Marathon in 2011. Tusa set her personal best of 2:25:12 in Guangzhou in 2017. Tusa will face a strong field led by Kenyan runners Sharon Cherop and Angela Tanui and Ethiopia’s Berha Afera Godfay. Cherop finished runner-up in the 2013 Berlin Marathon setting her personal best of 2:22:28 and won the world marathon bronze medal in Daegu 2011. She reached the podium three times in Boston winning in 2012 and finishing third in 2011 and 2013. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

A stronge elite field is ready to take on the Vodafone Instanbul Half Marathon

One of the fastest runners in the men’s field is Leonard Langat who has a lifetime best of 59:18 from 2016. The Kenyan has run a half marathon each month this year, finishing second in 59:41 at The Hague City-Pier-City Half Marathon in March. Eyes will also be on Albert Kangogo, also from Kenya, keeping in mind the 59:25 he ran at the Copenhagen Half Marathon last year. Amdework Walelegn of Ethiopia, the youngest in the field, may be a newcomer to world-class road running but he is still one of the athletes to watch on Sunday. The 19-year-old won the Laredo 10km in March in a world leading time of 27:36, showing the potential to go fast for the 21.1km distance. Evans Kiplagat of Azerbaijan, who achieved a time of 59:56 back in 2009, is no stranger to the race course. He will be running the Istanbul Half Marathon for the fourth consecutive year. (04/06/2018) ⚡AMP

Adidas says it will create unique videos for all Runners in the Boston Marathon

Roughly 30,000 runners will compete in the Boston Marathon on Patriot’s Day, and Adidas says it will create unique videos for every runner delivered within hours after the race is over. To celebrate 30 years of partnership between Adidas and the Boston Marathon this campaign is a monumental task. Here's how it is going to works: data generated by RFID chips on race bibs, like pace and split times combined with street mats that broadcast ultra-high frequency radio signals from antennas allow Adidas, in partnership with digital agency Grow, to capture individual videos using just seven cameras and a 20-person crew around the 26.2-mile course. The highlight reel will combine scenes from race day against an inspiring soundtrack. Personal footage will be captured at the 15K mark and finish line. Trial runs at other road races, storyboarding and prototyping with prescriptive camera angles, shot lists and sound effects will eliminate excess footage and unnecessary editing to make quick delivery a possibility. “We’re capturing the excitement, support and celebration that is Boston in a way no one has ever done before,” said Paul Bowyer, head of Adidas Running US. Runners will receive an email from the BAA after the race to access their sharable videos. (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

This will be Christine Miskinis 33rd Boston Marathon

Christine Miskinis started running in 1980 at age 29, motivated by her fear of turning 30. She could have never expected that 38 years later, at age 68, she would be preparing for her 33rd Boston Marathon on April 16, her 54th marathon overall. Now, as a personal trainer and running coach, Miskinis helps others realize their goals, no matter their age. She has always found running the Boston Marathon to be a “magical” experience, even after participating for 33 years. She enjoys the journey, and feels connected to the spectators as she passes by. “The experience is so amazing, to be out there with the spectators who really want to support you,” she said. “Especially since the bombing. You can really feel everyone is there with you.” (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

The Prague Half Marathon course is notoriously fast with a World Record Last Year

The 20th Sportisimo Prague Half Marathon is a thing of beauty. Not just because of our breathtaking scenery. But because of who comes out to participate. Over 11,000 runners have registered. Kenyans James Rungaru and Caroline Chepkoech Kipkirui are two of the favorites racing this Saturday April 7. The course, which winds through the historical heart of the Czech capital, is notoriously fast, evidenced last year when Joyciline Jepkosgei broke the world record with a sizzling 1:04:52 run, while picking up world records for 10km (30:04), 15km (45:37) and 20km (1:01:25) en route. While the latter two are now considered world bests and Jepkosgei has gone on to further improve the 10km and half marathon marks, her performance was nonetheless one of the most memorable road running achievements in recent memory. The men's course record is fast too. Atsedu Tsegay clocked 58:47 to win the 2012 edition, still the seventh fastest performance in history and Ethiopian national record. The 27-year-old returns to Prague hoping to bounce back into sub-one hour territory for the first time since 2013. He showed reasonably good form last month in Lisbon, where he clocked 1:00:28 in windy conditions to finish fifth in the Portuguese capital. (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

Using Poles can greatly add to a more efficient trail running experience

Poles can greatly add to a more efficient trail running experience, primarily while walking on uphills. Poles are especially useful in longer in trail running races with lots of sustained or steep terrain. Walking with poles can be a good way to conserve leg power as it allows athletes to engage otherwise unused muscles in the upper body. Poles can also be helpful on very steep uphills with loose footing. In these situations racers can take up body weight with the upper body and reduce foot slip. On steep downhills the use of poles can aid balance and stability. While striding with poles, keep your hands relaxed get into a natural rhythm. Let momentum & gravity swing the pole forward. (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

Hawkins chances of winning the Commonwealth Games Marathon has improved since Zane Robertson has withdrawn

Callum Hawkins (UK) wants to medal in the Commonwealth Games marathon on Sunday April 15. His chances have improved since New Zealand's Zane Robertson won't be running. Callum spoke to Martin Yelling on Tuesday's Marathon Talk show and confirmed a recent 125-mile training week. Hawkins has been training in Australia since shortly after his third place run behind Mo Farah at the Big Half in London on March 4 and was pleased to get a 22-hour flight out of the way well ahead of the Games. Since then he has been able to concentrate on his programme and as he settles into his race taper, Hawkins reported that he had been 'cranking big sessions in the heat', both in terms of miles and quality. Race preparation has also included a detailed look of the marathon course which starts and finishes at Southport Broadwater Parklands, consideration of winds on race day, experiments with hydration strategies and detailed discussion of tactics with his coach (and father) Robert Hawkins. Following a 9th place at the 2016 Olympic marathon in Rio, a Scottish record-breaking run at the 2017 Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon in Japan and a fourth place at the 2017 World Championships marathon (2:10:17). (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

USATF Half Marathon Championships in Pittsburgh

Some of the nation’s best runners will descend on the City of Champions on Sunday, May 6 for the 2018 USATF Half Marathon Championships. Headlining this year’s field are the defending USATF Running Circuit Champions Leonard Korir and Aliphine Tuliamuk. For the first time, the UPMC Health Plan Pittsburgh Half Marathon, part of the 10th annual DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon weekend of events organized by P3R, will host a national road championship race. Korir, 31, a U.S. Olympian in 2016, recently set a half-marathon personal record of 59 minutes, 52 seconds - the third fastest time by an American. The 2017 USATF Half Marathon Champion has had previous success on Pittsburgh roads, winning the EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler in both 2014 and 2016. (04/05/2018) ⚡AMP

Middle Distance Superstar Bernard Lagat at 43-years-old move to the roads has been impressive

Every sport has examples of athletes who seem infuriatingly immune to senescence, 43-year-old Bernard Lagat is in another league entirely.

Lagat has competed in five Olympics, a distinction that puts him in very select company among track and field athletes. The fact is all the more impressive when you take into account that his first games didn’t happen until 2000, when he was 25...

In the men’s 5,000 meters at the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials, the 41-year-old Lagat was in sixth place going into the last lap of the race. He proceeded to unleash a 52.82-second final 400 meters to win the most competitive 5K ever held at a U.S. Trials. Lagat had the decency to retire from track racing at the end of the 2016 season, he is once again redefining what should be feasible, only this time on the roads.

In January, he ran the Houston Half Marathon in 62 minutes flat, breaking Meb Keflezighi’s U.S. masters record for the distance by over a minute. In March of this year Lagat was the second American finisher at the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships.

For someone who holds the third-fastest 1,500-meter time ever, Lagat seems to be having way too much fun competing in the half marathon. Full story at Outside Online

(04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

Boston narrated by Matt Damon on the big screen April 12-19 in Boston

BOSTON is the first ever feature-length documentary film about the world's most legendary running race, the Boston Marathon. A special one-week only engagement is taking place April 12-19 at the Boston Showplace ICON Theatre at Seaport. Narrated by Academy Award winner Matt Damon, produced with The Kennedy/Marshall Company and featuring an original score by Jeff Beal recorded by members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, BOSTON chronicles the story of the iconic race as it evolved from a workingman's challenge to welcoming foreign athletes and eventually women, becoming the stage for many firsts and in no small part paving the way for the modern marathon and mass participatory sports. The film features many of running's greatest champions including Shalane Flanagan, Meb Keflezighi, Bill Rodgers, Frank Shorter and Joan Benoit Samuelson. (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

Prize Money and Bonuses Offered Exceed $100,000 at Credit Union Cherry Blossom Run

As they have for the past several years, organizers of the 46th Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run will offer over $90,000 in prize money and bonuses to top runners, including a $10,000 American record bonus for the first American man to break Greg Meyer's American record of 46:13, set here in 1983, and for the first American woman to break Janet Bawcom's American record of 52:12, set here in 2014. In addition, the Professional Road Racing Organization's (PRRO) 2018 Championship - with an additional $10,000 PRRO Super Bonus available to the winners of the five PRRO Circuit races, should one of them win the 2018 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile. The Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile will also serve as the 2018 Road Runners Club of America National Championship for ten miles, and will award $1,200 each to the first male and female finishers among RRCA Roads Scholars and Run Pro Camp alumni. Going to be a good paid day for the elites. (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

Callinan turns 18 on race day, making her the Youngest Boston Marathon runner

Ever since she was a young girl, Caitlin Callinan wanted to run the Boston Marathon. “This has been a dream forever for me,” Caitlin said. She was too young to qualify, but on April 16th she turns 18, and that just happens to be Marathon Monday. “Now that it’s my 18th birthday, I said, ‘That’s my chance.’ It was meant to be." Caitlin will be the youngest official Boston Marathon runner. You have to be at least 18 to run Boston. “I am beyond excited. It’s a huge day especially since I am doing this for my grandfather and for the liver foundation. My grandfather has non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, and me and him have always been super close so, and he’s done so much for me, and I feel like this is my chance to give back to him,” Caitlin said. (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

The Dangers B12 Deficiency Poses For Runners

B12 is essential in the production of healthy red blood cells and bone marrow. Our bodies require B12 to sustain a healthy brain and nervous system. B12 helps to produce the myelin sheath around our nerves. In a recent tweet, a runner posted that she was having difficulty sleeping at night. Her foot was experiencing twitches and tingling sensations. One of her big toes was numb and cramping. “She is describing the symptoms I experienced for over a year before I was diagnosed with myelopathy of the spinal cord due to severe B12 deficiency,” says Miriam Diaz-Gilbert who had run nine Marathons and four Ultras before she realized she had a B-12 deficiency. Untreated B12 deficiency can lead to serious health consequences, including paralysis, dementia and psychosis. For some, a daily oral B12 supplement is sufficient treatment. If you are having tingling, numbness and spasms in your limbs and are awakened by painful calf and toe cramps, or if you experience any other symptoms associated with B12 deficiency, get your B12 and MMA levels checked. (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

73-Year-Old Bill Mitchell heard that the 156 mile MdS was harder than they thought it would be?

Since taking up running ten years ago, 73-year-old Bill Mitchell a former naval officer, has completed 139 marathons including 30 ultramarathons, like the Marathon des Sables. The Marathon des Sables, which translates into English as Marathon of the Sands, is about 156 miles (250 km), the equivalent of six regular marathons. There are six running days and one rest day, during which temperatures can reach 120F during the day, while dropping to below freezing at night time. Competitors must carry all their provisions for the whole race on their back, and Bill estimates that he will start off with around 18lbs on his back. "It's a great experience in that you really are learning how to push yourself and to be determined," says Bill. "I have always been a determined person. When I say I will do something I will do it and you have to be to finish that race. The first one I did I heard two men saying it was harder than they thought it would be and I thought 'what do you expect? It's the MdS. 'My aim for this one is to complete it. I'm not aiming for a time but I want to be the oldest person to complete three MdS in just over a year.' (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

Kenyan´s Julius Keter will be eyeing new course record in Nagano marathon

Julius Keter will be eyeing to return to the winner's podium and break the course record at the Nagano Marathon on April 15. "I have cleared my training program and am working on speed this week. Hopefully, we will go through this preparations without a hitch and focus on winning the race in Japan," said Keter. Keter will face stiff competition from Uganda's Jackson Kiprop, who holds a personal best time of 2:09:32 and Ethiopia's Abdela Godana (2:09:45) while Japanese-based Ethiopians Abiyot Abinet and Yeneblo Biyazen, who have recorded fast time in 10,000m races will be making their marathon debuts. Kenya's Beatrice Jepkemboi and Pauline Wangui will be leading women course eyeing to add the city's marathon to her collection. (04/04/2018) ⚡AMP

The security measures being used to protect runners and spectators at the Boston Marathon

About 5,000 uniformed and undercover police officers, drones, bomb-sniffing dogs and trucks blocking some streets are just some of the security measures being used to protect runners and spectators at this year’s Boston Marathon. Federal and state law enforcement officials said Tuesday that there is no known credible threat to this year's marathon on April 16, which comes five years after two bombs planted near the finish line killed three spectators and wounded more than 260 others. But they said the public should stay vigilant and guarded. The security coordination involves eight cities and towns, as well as 7,500 to 8,000 public safety personnel that will include almost 5,000 uniformed and plainclothes law enforcement officers and the National Guard. Law enforcement will fly three tethered drones traveling at 400 feet above the marathon course. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

Trail Runner Magazine says Moab Trail Marathon is one of their top Ten “bucket list” races

The nation’s top elite runners, along with over 2,000 recreational trail runners, will be competing in the USA Trail Marathon Championships in Moab, Utah on Nov. 3-4, 2018. The Moab Trail Marathon will feature a marathon, half-marathon, 5k and a 1K kids race. The marathon should have more than 50 elite runners who will vie for top honors. Participants will run 13.1 or 26.2 miles on the beautiful, rugged course that features trails along the Kane Creek corridor, including Pritchett Canyon, Hunter Rim and Jackson Trail, as well as some unnamed trails, and trails through private property including a rope-assisted section. The top runners in the marathon will be recognized as champions and will receive a $4,800 prize purse. The course was designed by world-renowned local Moab runner, Danelle Ballengee, who is known to set challenging courses. Trail Runner Magazine has named the race as one of the top-10 “bucket list” races. Some trails will include a rope-assisted section. The marathon has a reputation for being one of the toughest cross country races around. The course features a mix of Moab’s unique four-wheel drive roads and trails; this course travels up, down and through several stunning canyons. Rugged terrain and spectacular scenery bring runners from around the world to compete on this course. This is the tenth year of the race. This event sells out so you should get signed up soon. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

Maureen Bowen was in Hawaii last January when she got the Ballistic Missile Strike Text

After losing 100 pounds, completing a half marathon in all 50 states, running three ultra-marathons, suffering from two different types of cancer, enduring two surgeries, several rounds of radiation and six months of chemotherapy, the Maui half marathon was going to be her big comeback race and suddenly, with the ring of a text message, she thought her world was coming to an end. A text on her phone alerted her to a ballistic missile strike that seemed inevitable at the time...She took up running to improve her health. “I didn’t do my first half marathon until I was 42,” she said. After finishng her second half marathon in 3:15 she got the bug. “At that time, I wasn’t crazy, as I say I am now. I would do two half marathons in a year and think that was a lot, and now, if I don’t do two in a weekend, people look at me like ‘what’s wrong with you?’” Then she was on the beach in Waikiki with other tourists when the text messages started. “Everybody’s phones went off, and we kind of looked at each other like ‘is this for real?” So she gathered her things and started searching for a place that seemed safe. Little did she know but it was a technical error and no missile strike was coming. The next day in Maui she walked the entire half marathon with a friend. She has four more states to go to complete her second round of a half in 50 states. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

Women's field is small but high-quality at Gifu Seiryu Half Marathon

Women's world record holder and defending champion Joyciline Jepkosgei from Kenya and last year's top man Alexander Mutiso return to lead the elite fields for the April 22 Gifu Seiryu Half Marathon. The women's field is small but high-quality at the front end, with Eunice Chumba (Bahrain) and Valary Jemeli (Kenya) joining Jepkosgei under the 68-minute mark and additional support coming from sub-70 runners Joy Kemuma (Kenya) and Karolina Nadolska (Poland). The top Japanese woman in last summer's London World Championships marathon, Mao Kiyota (Suzuki Hamamatsu AC) again leads the way as the fastest Japanese woman at 1:10:31. Most of Gifu's budget clearly went to the women's race, as the men's field is made up almost entirely of Japan-based athletes. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

The Country of Armenia will be officially represented at Boston Marathon for the First Time

The 2018 Boston Marathon is slated for April 16. In 2017, runners from every U.S. state were represented, along with 99 countries—Armenia was not one of them. But this year, for the first time in the its history, Armenia will be officially represented. For runners across the globe, securing a spot in the Boston Marathon, the world’s oldest annual marathon, is a prestigious distinction. Just 30,000 participants make the cut, 80 % of whom must beat an age-based qualifying time in another marathon to even have a chance. Each year, the event attracts 500,000 spectators. “Each Boston Marathon participant has to specify the country they are running for,” explains Sara Fountain, the 23 year-old Armenian-American who will be carrying the Armenian flag in the race this year, “I registered under Armenia as I am living here, so the demographic info for the race records will reflect that. I’m in the process of getting Armenian citizenship, but it’s not done yet. I’ll have to be a citizen if/when I qualify for the Olympics, though.” Fountain is originally from the New York City area and moved to Yerevan in the summer of 2017 shortly after completing a volunteer internship with the Birthright Armenia program. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

I just refuse to give into old age says 80-year-old marathon runner Bob Wray

When most 80-year-olds are heading for the recliner, Bob Wray is hitting the road. Before his “knees gives out” he will be running the London Marathon this month. He was one of the lucky 40,000 plucked from a pool of more than 300,000 applications. He said this will be his ninth marathon, and his motivation remains simple. “I just refuse to give into old age,” Wray says. “You see people who are still in their late 60s and early 70s and have given up on life, I’m determined to not allow that to happen to me. “ My daughter thinks I’m mad. “I found out there’s an 83-year-old running as well in London. “I’m usually first in my age group (at marathons), as I’m the only one in my age group. ” He has been putting in up to 50 miles a week either on a treadmill — which he says is “very boring” — or on the footpath on cooler nights. (04/03/2018) ⚡AMP

Kenya’s Vivian Cheruiyot wants to bow out on a high by winning gold in the marathon at 2020 Toyko Olympics Marathon

Olympic 5,000m champion Vivian Cheruiyot of Kenya says she may opt for early retirement should she win the gold medal in the marathon at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Cheruiyot, 35, believes she still has over five years to compete at the higher levels, but may consider cutting it back if she claim the gold In the Marathon in Toyko. Cheruiyot said she believes that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will give her a perfect opportunity to bow out in style after a stellar career. "I always wanted the marathon gold and when I gained it in 2016, I said I had all the medals in my collections. But I want to bow out on a high and the Tokyo Olympics are a good chance for me to do so," she added. Cheruiyot will face stiff challenges in her quest to be named in the Kenyan team to Tokyo and must be in top form from now on. The diminutive athlete will be leading a strong Kenyan delegation to this month's London Marathon (April 22) and knows she needs to start adding big city wins if she is to be considered for the marathon team. Having debuted in the distance in London last year, finishing fourth in 2:23:50 after smoothly transiting from track to road running, Cheruiyot went on to claim her first marathon victory in Frankfurt, Germany last Sept clocking 2:23:35 to break her Personal Best of 2:23:50. (04/02/2018) ⚡AMP

Akhwari pushed his body to the farthest limits of human endurance

The story of John Stephen Akhwari. Once long ago, he pushed his body to the farthest limits of human endurance and then gave the world of sports one of its most evocative statements about sacrifice and loyalty. The starting field of the Mexico ’68 marathon featured 75 runners. Of these, 18 would drop out as the altitude took its toll. Akhwari, an African marathon champion who routinely posted times in the range of 2hrs 20min and was in the class of the world’s elite, started experiencing difficulties almost as soon as the race started. He suffered muscle cramps and hung at the back of the pack from where he would come across the anguished casualties as they fell by the wayside one by one. Akhwari was one of those who suffered this fate and he dislocated his right knee. Blood gashed from the gaping wound. Picking himself up, he realised that his shoulder was also bruised by the hard surface and now an intense pain was assailing him from head to toe. Looking at his desperate condition, medical personnel shadowing the competitors advised him to pull out. But Akhwari refused. He said: “My country did not send me 5,000 miles to start the race. They sent me 5,000 miles to finish the race.” (04/02/2018) ⚡AMP

Commemorating the fifth year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing

A Massachusetts museum will commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing by displaying hundreds of running shoes left at the finish line. The memorial will be a part of an exhibit at the Attleboro Arts Museum entitled 'A Long-Distance Relationship: The 26.2 Mile Journey'. The exhibit will feature the 200 sneakers left at the marathon finish line by mourners in memory of three lives lost and more than 260 injured in the April 15, 2013 attack. The museum memorial will also include paintings inspired by the race, sculptures such as a giant winged foot, and other works by over 20 artists. Three running chairs used by father and son competitors Dick and Rick Hoyt will also be on display to raise awareness about people living with disabilities. The exhibit memorial runs from April 10 through May 5. April 16 will mark the 122nd year of the race - the oldest continuously run marathon in the US. (04/02/2018) ⚡AMP

A dementia patient will show she can run and complete the London Marathon

A woman diagnosed with vascular dementia in her 50s is planning to run the 2018 London Marathon to prove someone with the disease can do it. Sue Strachan, who's now 62, took up running after she was diagnosed and has been training on the roads around her home in Staunton on Wye, Herefordshire. As well as challenging perceptions, she hopes to raise money for Alzheimer's Research UK. Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, and can sometimes be slowed it down. “I don’t care what time I do it in, but I’m determined to complete it. There will be a lot of tears at the finish line and probably a few on the way round as well. “I’m very proud that although I’ve got dementia I’m still able to take on the challenge of a marathon. I want to prove someone with dementia can run a marathon and show you can still have a good life after a dementia diagnosis. I also want to inspire people to support dementia research.” Sue said. (04/02/2018) ⚡AMP

Shalane Flanagan message today is very clear - I have unfinished Business

The Boston Marathon everyone has been waiting for is now just two weeks from Monday. Most everyone running have set goals. Shalane Flanagan has had Boston on her radar for months. She posted this today: “I have Unfinished Business: ...On the road and in the gym. It’s something inside us. Something that refuses to take no for an answer. Something that makes us push through every time, no matter what. 2015 Boston Marathon was a stinker Marathon for me. Ive been training and preparing to go back and conquer it. I have unfinished business.” (04/01/2018) ⚡AMP

Saucony is celebrating 120 years and continues to come up with creative ideas to bring awareness to their brand

Runners are obsessed with coffee and yes, donuts. As Saucony celebrate120 years they are proud to honor it’s hometown marathon and Boston’s rich running heritage in partnership with Dunkin Donuts. “We are a brand known for ‘keeping America running,’” said Amanda Reiss, chief marketing officer of Saucony. Saucony’s X Dunkin’ Kinvara 9 is a limited-edition version of the award-winning Kinvara 9, named “Editor’s Choice” by Runner’s World in the 2018 Spring Shoe Guide. A strawberry-frosted donut on the shoe’s heel is surrounded by a flurry of orange, magenta and chocolate-colored sprinkles, representing the playful color palette of the Dunkin’ Donuts brand. Saucony will have a booth at the John Hancock Sports & Fitness Expo Boston Marathon weekend and the shoe will be on display. Beyond the artistic design the shoe is a solid running shoes as well. Coffee, donuts and running all go together. (04/01/2018) ⚡AMP

These are the eight Gnarliest Races in the World and only a few have crossed the finish line

The popularity of running ultras has skyrocketed over the past few years. But what happens when you take away the road and most of your sanity? You get some of the gnarliest races out there, where mistakes can be fatal and merely crossing the finish line in one piece counts as a victory. Here are some of the toughest: 1. Jungle Ultra: Runners cover 142.6 miles through the humid Peruvian jungle in a five-stage, self-supported race. 2. Alaska Mountain Wilderness Challenge: More than 100 miles of wild Alaskan terrain. There’s no route or GPS, and participants must be skilled in self-rescue (and carry a SAT phone). 3. Self Transcendence 3100 Mile: Runners must cover 3,100 miles in 52 days by completing 5,649 mind-numbing laps around one city block. 4. Plain 100: Washington’s Cascades, 35 runners a year attempt 100 unsupported miles on remote trails and forest service roads. 5. Iditarod Trail Invitational: 1,000-mile course through Alaskan wilderness from Knik Lake to Nome on foot 6. 6633 Ultra: 350-mile race, runners cross the Arctic Circle 7. Barkley Marathons: 100-mile unsupported Barkley in the Tennessee backcountry has only been finished 16 times since its start in 1986. 8. Dragon's Back Race: five days of castle-to-castle “trail” running across the Welsh wilderness, runners will cover about 186 miles and climb roughly 51,000 feet over unmarked and often trackless, craggy terrain. (Click link for five more and details from Outside Online) (04/01/2018) ⚡AMP

Jake Robertson sets a 10K PR and wins Crescent City for second time

New Zealand’s Jake Robertson, 28, also known as the “white Kenyan” since he has been training in Kenya for ten years, came to New Orleans for one reason.

He wanted to be a repeat winner and set a new 10k PR. He did both and more winning the Crescent City 10K in a new PR of 27:28.

Jake blew away the field winning by 50 seconds. Edwin Sol was second in 28:18. Jake’s time ties the New Zealand national record in a 10K road race, with his twin brother. "I think it is even more special than breaking my brother's record, so it's cool," he said.

"I'll keep it for one year. I really tried to change my approach today even though it didn't look like it. I did slow down at one point because I wanted to save a little bit more in the last mile. I really want to get that course record, and I keep getting closer every year." 2018 was a huge year for the Crescent City Classic as it marks the 40th anniversary.

(03/31/2018) ⚡AMP

How Exercise May Help the Memory Grow Stronger

Exercise may help the brain to build durable memories, through good times and bad. Stress and adversity weaken the brain’s ability to learn and retain information, earlier research has found. But according to a remarkable new neurological study in mice, regular exercise can counteract those effects by bolstering communication between brain cells. Neuroscientists have known for some time that the potency of our synapses depends to some degree on how we live our lives. Lack of sleep, alcohol, diet and other aspects of our lifestyles, especially stress, may dampen the flow of messages between brain cells, while practice fortifies it. Repeat an action and the signals between the cells maintaining the memory of that action can strengthen. That is learning. (03/31/2018) ⚡AMP

This Simple Rule Of The Road Can Save Your Life

A study out of Finland shows that one common mistake puts you at a very high risk of danger when running on the roads. It all has to do with which way you are facing traffic when you run. If there is a sidewalk that is, of course, the safest place to be (however you can also take a fall with all the cracks and uneven surfaces), but should you be running on the shoulder, this is an important reminder that you should always run against traffic. The reason is simple, you can't react to something you can't see. Facing traffic, you can react quicker to a wayward, or distracted driver. Jean Knaack, executive director of the Road Runners Club of America, encourages runners to go against traffic. "Running against traffic allows you to see incoming vehicles and to react to them," she says. "If your back is to incoming traffic, you're far less likely to react if a car is not giving you an adequate right of way." This is something to take seriously. There are 122,000 accidents annually just in the US involving cars and runners. 4,000 runners annually are killed by cars just in the US. (03/31/2018) ⚡AMP

Kenny Capps to run the Mountain-to-Sea trail to raise awareness for Multiple Myeloma

In January of 2015, Kenny Capps, an avid ultramarathon runner from Black Mountain, NC, was forced to stop running after being diagnosed with stage-two Multiple Myeloma, which currently has no cure. After multiple rounds of chemotherapy and infusions, Capps underwent a mostly successful bone marrow transplant in August 2015. With his cancer in check, though not in remission, Capps began running again in 2017. This Saturday, April 1, 2018, Capps will depart from Jockey’s Ridge State Park near Nags Head, North Carolina on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail destined for Clingmans Dome, 1,175 miles away, to raise awareness and funds for Myeloma. “Kenny is an inspiration to us all,” said Dave Petri, Farm to Feet VP of Marketing. “He is facing down two intimidating foes, cancer and a thousand mile-plus trail run, and we look forward to running with him when he crosses into Surrey County.” (03/30/2018) ⚡AMP

Steve Bassan was told 16 years ago that he would have to spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair now is running his 100th marathon

A 65-year-old man who was told that he would need to prepare to spend his life in a wheelchair is set to tackle his 100th marathon in Manchester UK next month. 16 years ago, doctors told Steve Bassam that his rheumatoid arthritis had become so severe that he would be unable to walk, yet, remarkably, by 2004, his condition was in remission – which is when he discovered running. Sunday April 8 will be a very special day for Steve, he selected the Manchester Marathon to be his 100th marathon. Steve completed his first 5k after being informed that his condition had gone into remission and, two years later, completed his first marathon. At the finish line, he saw someone wearing a ‘100 marathon club’ jersey and thought to himself, 'that’s my new ambition'. “I became driven by the ambition to run 100 marathons,” says Steve. “I have chosen Manchester to be my 100th as it is my local marathon, and will be supported by many of my friends from the Middleton Harriers Running Club, the Club I am a member.” (03/30/2018) ⚡AMP

Two children have six World Records to their name on all seven continents

Mekaal (10) and Zara Rahim (11) became the youngest male and female in the world to achieve the feat when they crossed the line in Canberra, Australia. The previous record was held by Americans, Bianca Ramirez and Nik Toocheck, who were both 12 when they did it. In addition Mekaal and Zara also achieved World Records for: youngest siblings to complete a marathon on each continent and youngest male and female to complete an ultra-marathon in Antarctica. They are now just a few World Records behind their father Ziyad, who holds 10 himself in long-distance running, with both youngsters aspiring to break them when they grow up. Zara and Mekaal, who spend every summer with their grandparents and cousins in Craigmarloch, began their challenge last July after being inspired by a documentary about Syrian refugees. (03/30/2018) ⚡AMP

South African's David Gatebe gunning for 56K Two Oceans Marathon record

Gatebe is intent on doing to the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon record what he did to the Comrades Marathon two years ago - obliterate it. “David says he’d like to break the record,” said his coach John Hamlett on Wednesday. “And he’s looking good for it. Of course it is not an easy record and with the seconding restrictions at Two Oceans, we will find it a little difficult to feed him well. But he is going for it.” Gatebe and Edwin Khonkhobe are Hamlett’s two athletes who will be going to the Mother City to compete for the title on Saturday. “Edwin is a very fast, new kid on the ultras block who has really come alive and we are hoping he gets onto the podium.” The record that David will try to beat is 3:03:44 set by Thompson Magawana in 1988 for the 56K (35 mile) race in Cape Town, SA. (03/29/2018) ⚡AMP

Chris Walker is running the London Marathon in support of his blind veteran friend

Navy veteran, Jamie Weller, has achieved so much since his lost his sight over 20 years ago. His best friend, Chris Walker is now running the London Marathon to thank the charity. Blind Veterans UK is a London-based charity that was originally set up to support soldiers who were blinded in World War I. The charity has now helped more than 35,000 veterans and their families. The director of engagement at BVUK, Jackie Harbor, says: “We’re committed to the belief that no one who has served for our country should have to battle blindness alone. “Our core aim has always been to provide blind and vision-impaired veterans with the support they need to lead full and independent lives.” BVUK continue to help Jamie, many years after he originally lost his sight. (03/29/2018) ⚡AMP

Injured Jepkosgei says she will return stronger after her recovery

Kenya's Joyciline Jepkosgei says she will return stronger after her recovery from a foot injury she sustained prior to the World Half Marathon in Valencia, Spain. Speaking to Xinhua from Eldoret on Thursday, Jepkosgei, who despite her injury concerns, held on to win silver at the World Half Marathon last week, believes that once she is back in form she will challenge the world record in the 10km and the half marathon. "Success comes and goes, and to me, everything remains about my faith, training and recovery. What I have planned for 2018 is to challenge some course and world records in selected races that my management will pick. For the full marathon, I will have to bide my time and wait for 2019," she said. (03/29/2018) ⚡AMP

Ethiopian legend Tirunesh Dibaba explains her passion for running

“I was motivated and inspired to run from a young age because of the success my older sisters and my cousin Derartu Tulu the 1992 and 2000 Olympic 10,000m champion, enjoyed in the sport.

I started running at school. I used to win all the races. In fact, I was so successful I was regularly assigned to race against the boys!.

“I later developed into a professional runner and enjoyed my first major senior success when winning the World 10,000m title at the 2003 IAAF World Championships in Paris. That was the moment for me when I knew I possessed a gift for running.

“Running has given me so much throughout my life. It is always a thrill for me. It makes me happy and my passion is such that nothing else in life can match that same high I get when running.

“I also love the competitive side of the sport and nothing beats that feeling of winning after putting in many months of hard training in the countdown to a big race," Tirunesh Dibaba says.

(03/29/2018) ⚡AMP

96-year-old Mike Fremont still runs 10 miles three times per week

Mike Fremont, who turned 96 years old on February 23, still runs 10 miles three times per week. He canoes the other days. He holds four single-age world records (Marathon: ages 80 and 90 years old and Half Marathon: ages 90 and 91) and continues to compete today. He has been running his whole life, but attributes his excellent health and spunk to his vegan diet. When not running or paddling his canoe, Fremont volunteers his time speaking at schools to encourage others to live healthy lives and encourage environmental conservation. He’s as “rare as the yeti,” says his friend and accomplished ultrarunner, Harvey Lewis. Lewis, 42, of Cincinnati, Ohio, thinks Fremont should still “buy green bananas. His quality of life is outstanding. He can go farther than most Americans of any age. Mike has the energy of a high-school teenager,” says Lewis. “In fact, probably more. He can do more pull-ups—eight at one time—and push-ups than many active young people. And he will have you laughing within minutes. He’s humble, often kidding at his own expense.” When he was 60 he ran a 3:20 marathon. Not too bad, but the world record at that time was 2:36. At 90 he ran a 6:37 marathon. It set a world record. Almost twice what it took 30 years earlier. (03/28/2018) ⚡AMP
Inspirational Stories

Bill Sumner is one of the fastest 70 plus runners in the country

Bill Sumner has been running the Carlsbad 5000 for years. This year he moved into a new age-group (70-74) and he placed first running 21:11.

This is the second fastest time (70+) over the last 12-months of all the races My Best Runs is tracking. Only Dave Glass (70) who ran 20:54 at the Syracuse Festival of Races is faster...

"Bill and I have been bumping into each other in Carlsbad over the last 25 years," says Bob Anderson. "I have beaten him a few times but not lately. Two things has not changed over all these years. First his love for running is as strong as ever. And secondly he is always happy with a warm smile."

Bill in his prime ran a 30-minute 10,000 meters, and was a 4:16 masters miler in his 40s. Sumner helped start Cal Coast running club in the 1970s, when he organized a campaign to collect "gently used" running shoes for needy high school teams.

The club is still going strong. "I'm trying to save everybody," Bill says. "I read that if you try to please 100 percent of the people 100 percent of the time, you'll fail. But I'm still trying."

(03/28/2018) ⚡AMP
by Bob Anderson

The Cherry Blossom Ten Miler has a lot of exciting things Planned

Joan Benoit Samuelson, Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor highlight race and Health & Fitness Expo lineups. The 2018 Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile and 5K Run-Walk, to be held on April 8, will truly offer something for everyone with an interest in distance running. In addition to hosting the 2017-18 Professional Road Running Organization (PRRO) Championship, and the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) National 10-Mile Championship...America’s three most highly decorated marathon runners will be making appearances and signing autographs leading up to and including race day. “We are pleased to have true American marathon royalty appearing at our Health and Fitness Expo this year,” said Event Director Phil Stewart. “Joan, Deena and Meb have been the dominant names in American marathon running going back to the 1980s when Joan won the gold medal in the first women’s Olympic Marathon in 1984”. (03/28/2018) ⚡AMP

Runners who are better at controlling their emotions tend to have better performance

Runners with higher emotional intelligence finish half marathons quicker, suggests new research published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences. The study found that emotional intelligence was linked to better times in a half-marathon race. “My co-authors and I are all interested in how emotions influence human behavior, although we look at this question from different points of view,” said Enrico Rubaltelli, an assistant professor of cognitive psychology at the ‎University of Padova and corresponding author of the study. The researchers had 237 runners fill out a survey the day before they participated in a half-marathon race. The survey included the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, and also asked a number of questions about their physical training. Rubaltelli and his colleagues found a positive association between emotional intelligence and run times. (03/28/2018) ⚡AMP

Scherf and Richards sets world indoor Marathon records at the Armory

The 31-year-old American psychology and kinesiology Harvard graduate, Lindsey Scherf, returned to an old happy hunting ground, the Armory Track and Field Centre in New York City on March 18, to set a world indoor marathon record of 2hrs 40min 55sec after running 211 laps around the banked 200m track, eclipsing Finnish athlete Laura Manninen’s mark by 1min 35sec. “This ranks among my top-five accomplishments. It’s right up there with my American Junior record for the 10k and my 25k national championship. It was an amazing experience returning to the Armory and incredibly some of the officials on duty last week were there when I ran as an 11-year-old! That pace was 6:08 per mile for 26.2 miles. In addition, Scherf walked away from the race $7,000 richer—$3,000 for winning, and $4,000 more for her world record. Malcolm Richards, had an equally impressive day, breaking the tape in 2:19:01 also a world record. (03/28/2018) ⚡AMP

Once you start keeping a log and setting goals you get hooked then comes Boston five times

Rod Fraser, 61, just wanted to stay in shape and keep up with his kids, when he started running 25 years ago. “It was more of a recreational thing for the first few years,” said Rod. “I’d do a 5K, four or five times a week… but what I found along the way was, once you start keeping a log and setting goals, that’s how it starts — you get hooked.” In 2004, he ran his first marathon — the Scotiabank Toronto Marathon — finishing among the top 20%. Then it was on to the next one. “I’m sure everyone is different, but once I did a couple I was committed, and after a few more you become addicted.” Since then, Fraser has knocked off an impressive 35 marathons over 14 years (last year was his busiest, with five), including four appearances at the prestigious Boston Marathon, where he’ll be returning next month, along with 30,000 other qualifying participants. “It’s quite amazing,” Fraser said of what’s considered by many to be the Holy Grail of marathons. The April 16 race begins in Hopkinton, Mass and ends on Boylston Street in downtown Boston. “The whole city embraces it; everyone supports you and treats you like a rock star.” (03/27/2018) ⚡AMP