Last night’s Wednesday Night Track Work was just the breath of fresh air I needed to get out of my minor funk. A nice size group braved the 95+ degree temps, were rewarded with a tough assignment, and completed the session better runners for it. If I’ve tried to tend towards kid gloves during this heat, the athletes will have none of that. Preferring rather to be tested if toasted. What an inspiration to me and to everyone attending to see each other giving it their very best, whether it be fast set of 800s or the 400/200 mix for those needing even quicker turnover. We welcomed 4 new members last night and that too is a joy. As always, thanks to my able Assistant Coaches John Tully and Kelly Crawford for keeping things flowing smoothly, especially Coach John who really has his thumb on the pulse of the group. Coach Linda had a good turnout for the Kids Fit Program, the little rascals learning how to mix Fun & Fitness in the summertime. Burgers and beers at Tanner’s afterwards, just the tonic for my soul.
We welcomed Amy Bagee to the workout last night and to the ranks of the Good Mates. She brings an 800 meter pedigree (2:09 pr) and will be moving up to some slightly longer stuff this fall, makes an excellent addition to our Team Nebraska ladies.
Back at the track this morning with my client Tammy B. She has made incredible progress since we started working together in March, ran consecutive personal bests this morning during a couple of 400s followed by a full set of 200s. She now knows the joy of 6:00 pace.
The Bellevue Barnburner 10K is set for Saturday, July 28th. “The run starts and finishes at Washington Park near 20th Ave and Franklin St. The course features a few rolling hills which add character to the event, and the hills are good for utilizing various muscle groups. A great tee-shirt is available for individuals that have their registrations postmarked by mid July. The run is a fundraiser for the Bellevue Optimists, a group that works with children throughout the Bellevue area.”
Online registration is up for the 3rd Annual Big Blue Walk/Run. Set for Saturday, September 29th, there is a new emphasis with this event, gearing more towards participation and the fundraising aspect rather than sheer competition. There will be a 1 Mile Walk and the 5K will also include a walk. The 5K route traverses the scenic Bob Kerrey Bridge and is USATF Certified, NE11010KU, so it will count for those choosing to race and looking for honest personal bests and will serve at the USATF Nebraska Association championships for that distance. Details on the kids run will be forthcoming. All proceeds from the Big Blue Walk/Run remain in the Omaha Metro and go towards prostate cancer awareness and education. Please go to: http://www.active.com/5k-race/omaha-ne/big-blue-1-mile-walk-and-5k-run-2012 and register today!
Registration will also soon be up for the 7th Annual Swamp Stomp 8K Trail Run & Cajun Festival (Saturday, October 20th) and the 6th Annual Vala’s Pumpkin Patch Monster Dash Trail of Terrors 5K (Saturday October 27th).
Thanks for marking your calendars and coming out to support both of these family, fitness, fun events.
Map for the Big Blue 5K: http://www.usatf.org/events/courses/maps/showMap.asp?courseID=NE11010KU