Touchdown STR!

It was a cold dark morning when the alarm went off at 7am on Super Bowl Sunday. The Super Bowl used to mean parties, nachos, and 30 different types of dip that you could put a chip into. Now it means running the Super Bowl 5k, and run we did. This was the first race of the 2008 season for Vinnie, myself and "Coach" Lisa's first race with STR. Lisa showed us why she is the coach with her 6:38 splits and a 20:33 overall time which was good for a 2nd place age group finish. This continues the streak of STR podium finishes for 2008. Vinnie and I both started the race "a little too fast" but were able to hang on for our 5K PR's. I crossed the line at 27:08 for 8:45 splits and Vinnie close behind at 27:47 for 8:58 splits. We were both gald for the sub 9's splits and not for leaving it all on the course! A special thanks to Annette "The Boss" for getting up so early and braving the cold temps to be a STR fan.

The Frozen Blueberry

Todd "Z" and Jon "Nordberg" kicked off the 2008 season for STR with the first annual Frozen Blueberry 5K. This was Jon's first race with STR and ended up with a podium finish. He ran a 29:26 which was fast enough for a third place in his age group. Todd "Z" put the hammer down to run a 24:18 resulting in a 4th place age group finish. These guys did all this in the cold and snow covered course. These guys are both planning to run the Detroit Marathon this fall. Keep up the great work.

Flat Tire Challenge

I am proud to say there will be 8 STR participates in the Flat Tire Challenge. PJ, Mindy, Vinnie, Mac, Jon, Justin, Allison, and myself (Ralph) will be competing in the 4 month weight loss challenge. It should be an exciting competition with these highly motivated contestants. Check out the blog for monthly updates. Good luck to all.

New Years Resolution Run

Z, KB and I closed out the first year of STR with a strong showing at the Flint Resolution Run. With warm temperatures on a nice sunny day, Z cranked out the 8kms in less than 43 minutes! This is a really good time, congratulations Z! Especially considering the nearly 5 mile route contained a substantial hill at the start and finish. After some initial indications that I was able to earn my first place on the podium, I finished 4th in my age group with a 7:46 min/mile. Once again, KB brought home the hardware! She finished 2nd in her age group with a time of 38:38.

Congratulations to all STR members who have pushed themselves to become healthier and enjoy a more active lifestyle. May your resolutions be big and your resolve deep!

HAPPY NEW YEAR STR!

Jingle All the Way

Vinnie, Madison (the dog), and I braved the cold to represent STR in the Jingle Bell Run 10K. It was a great race with a record number of runners this year who raised over $30,000 for the Arthritis Foundation. Vinnie took home the fastest tire award with an impressive 56:48. Madison and I crossed the finish line two seconds later. This was Madison's first race. She was very excited and had plenty left in the tank at the end. Have a great Holiday Season.

A Fantastic Fantasy 5k

After our usual over indulgence in thanksgiving festivities (potatoes, pies, etc.), KB and I were fully prepared to burn a few calories at the Fantasy of Lights 5k in Howell Friday night. It seems like every year we enter this race we run in horrendous weather. But this year, we were greeted with clear skies and no wind. So, in cold temperatures we put down a great run, finishing in 25:17. KB’s 8:08 minute miles earned her 3rd place in her age group and a new PR. Thanks to Ralph and Annette for joining us and cheering us on.

Happy Turkey Day

I am proud to say that 4 STR members and Lisa (pictured wearing the green jacket) braved the cold, snow and winds to run the 25th annual Detroit Turkey Trot! Dave "The Tank" was the fastest tire of the day, Todd Z ran his second and longest race ever. Ann "Sammy"and I enjoyed the run also. A special thanks to Z's friend Lisa for coming out and running with us. The Turkey Trot is a great way to start a big day of eating. Looking forward to next year!