Welcome Dani!

Dani joins Team R.E.D.!   Please be sure to welcome her as part of the Team!   Many people have been asking how to pronounce her last name, and I am willing to give lessons, at the price of 1 tall beer per lesson.  Group lessons require a Pitcher of beer for payment.

I did find the Team RED camera, so hopefully in the future, we will have more clear pictures (once again!).

Dani is our latest addition! 

Here's a look at the next few days.... lots of choices!

• Saturday 7am:  Brothers Bar & Grill for Christina s Birthday celebration run! 
• Saturday 7:30am:  Newts North for Off Season Striders
• Saturday 10am:  Brothers Bar & Grill for round 2 of Christinas Birthday celebration run... and after that 2nd run, the party continues at Whistle Binkies on the Lake!  
• Sunday 8am:  Panera South for Off Season Striders
• Saturday Spring 
• Monday 6pm:   Dooley's for Monday Maniacs.  You might want to make an extra effort to be at this one, as we will get a private tour of the expansion at the DAHLC.   Lots of fun to check it out close up and personal!  Of course, we'll run from Dooley's to the DAHLC... and continue the run after the tour.
• Tuesday 3pm:  TerraLoco continues their 5K series... stop in, donate $5 to a local charity and have fun! 
• Thursday 6pm:   The Bears Den is the host of Team R.E.D.   Come out and win a prize.. the prize I forgot to give away at Brothers a few weeks ago!  

Have a blessed holiday!

I've taken the following info directly from the OSS email (so you may have already seen it!)..  here are some opportunities over the Christmas Holiday!

Off Season Striders

  

Great turnout last Saturday!
Up for a Christmas Eve

 Run?  Meet at Dunn Bros'  North (Elton Hills Dr by Brueggers)  at  7:30am.   

  

Sorry - nothing confirmed for Christmas morning yet...    Stay tuned!

  

  

Saturday, Dec. 28th - 
Consider the Winter Wilder run in Spring Valley (see RTC website for more info)

  

Otherwise.. meet at Newt's North 7:30am. 

  

  

Sunday,  Dec. 29th

Panera South again..   8am!

  

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT YEAR....  

Saturday Jan. 4th  -

  Sign up NOW for the unique  RTC Polar Bear Prediction Run!  Great trophies and  food! 

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Remember... Thursday Dec 26th we're at Brothers Bar & Grill at 6pm.  Park in back.

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! And a look at the week ahead

A great turnout for the Annual Holiday Run & Brunch at Charlies on Saturday.    Special thanks to Jean & Randy for organizing this event. What a great way to celebrate the season, bringing a mix of Team R.E.D. and Off Season Striders.   It always goes off without a hitch!

Also thanks to all of you who brought contributions for the food shelf... that's an organization that can use contributions all year long.  

I've added a few shots from the breakfast courtesy of Tom W.   He does great work as one of our Team R.E.D cameraman!  He's got many more quality images, available to view on facebook.

Listening closely to the Christmas Elf

Ready to get ready!

Shane, Paul & Dave

Elaine, Amy & Diane

Teri, Lorelei and Gwen

Christina, Andrea & Dawn

Randy & Peter

Roger & Amy

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There's a nice photo story in the Post Bulletin Weekend edition.   I thought it was well done.  Good work Team R.E.D.!   If you haven't see it yet, here's a link to the story.   http://www.postbulletin.com/eedition/page-g/page_5987e4d5-b7d2-5dea-928f-5d37ec6685ea.html

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This week

Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs are ready to rock from Beetles Bar & Grill on 2nd St in Rochester.  Plan to run 3, 4 or 6 miles (really as far as you want).  Settle in for some post run cheer.
Tuesday --  Due to it being Christmas Eve there is no scheduled Track workout or Trail run.
Wednesday - Christmas Day!
Thursday 6pm:   Team R.E.D. will be at Brothers Bar & Grill in Rochester.  We'll hit the trails for 3, 4 or 6 miles and return for some fun!    As is the standard at Brothers, park in the back lot and come inside the back door for the route talk.

**Note:  We are checking on the availability of the indoor track this week. If available, look for a track workout to appear.

Holiday Fitness and Brunch!

If you RSVP'd to attend the Christmas Fitness & Brunch with Team R.E.D. and OSS... please see the details below.  If you didn't, and want to contribute to the food shelf, this would be a great time to stop by and drop something off. -- Additionally, if you can't make it and would like to contribute... you can bring something to the Bears Den on Thursday!

Saturday Walk/Run & Brunch...

1) We start promptly at 7AM. 3 RTs of 3,4 &6 miles. First 2.5 m are same 

2) Arrive at 6:52AM. Parking will be tight! Use overflow lot S of Charlie's & side streets. 

3) When you arrive find the "Breakfast elf" to Sign in & pay for your $10. Cash only please. 

4) Wear festive attire 

5) Please bring a Canned /boxed food item to donate to Channel One Foods. You will feel really good inside

More New Members!

New Members are Awesome!  

Along with the workout, the caroling, the giving... last Thursday night brought us three new members!

Please welcome Andrea, Eric and Reggie!  (the pics are not of the greastest quality, however, the people surely are!). 

Andrea joins!  - We first met her on the trails

Eric Joins! - He's new to the area and coaching in St Charles

Reggie Joins! - We met Reggie on the marathon training runs from the RAC

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Team R.E.D. / OSS Holiday Run & Brunch! 

If you haven't RSVP'd for the Team R.E.D. / OSS Holiday Run & Brunch this Saturday 12/21... please do!  Space is very limited!  If you are attending, be sure to dress in your festive gear!

If you don't know anything about the run and brunch, you may not be on our email distribution list.  If you'd like to be added, please drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com   

Let's go go go!

Join me in welcoming two new members!  Terri and Michelle joined Team R.E.D. during a night of Christmas Caroling in Byron!   Welcome to the Team, and we look forward to a shirt presentation soon!

Terri, Tom & Michelle

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Congratulations are in order for Steve after completing the Hoover Dam Marathon!  This is his first marathon in 21 years! With a 21 year break, you know he must have had fresh legs!

As he was running, he happened upon another Team R.E.D. member....  Dom was volunteering at an aid station when he spotted the Team RED colors coming his way.  He snapped this pic (Steve was going so fast he nearly ran out of the picture altogether!). 

Congrats Steve.. and it must have been a lot of fun to run into Dom!   

Steve at Hoover Dam Marathon

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The week is shaping up!  See the details below... Note:  Track and Trail are both on Tuesday. 

• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are gathering at Beetles Bar & Grill on 2nd Street in Rochester.  Come out and meet the TV stars!  
• Tuesday 5:30pm:  Get you speed on the indoor track at RCTC.   Wear one pair of shoes/boots from your car to the track, then change into dry running shoes once inside.  
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  The trail crewis heading to Root River Park for a loop or two on the soft snow.   The park is located at 4012 80th St SE Rochester.  I've added a google map link to the park... the green arrow represents the parking lot.  If you feel like you're on a road to nowhere, you are on the right road!   https://maps.google.com/maps?q=43.903644%2C-92.398123&num=1&t=h&z=14
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. hits the road from the Bears Den in Byron.  Routes will be in the ranges of 3, 4 or 6 miles. 

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The Running Room is looking for instructors for their running clinics.   They are holding an Instructor training night on January 8th.   The clinics and dates are listed below...   

• Learn to Run: Mondays at 6:00pm. Next round starting January 13 – March 17^th.
• 5k: Mondays at 6:00pm. Next round starting on January 13 – March 17^th.
• 10K: Tuesdays at 6:00pm. Next round January 14^th – March 18^th.
• Marathon: Thursday at 6:00pm. Starting on February 6^th – May 22^nd.
• ½ Marathon: Thursday at 6:00pm. Starting on February 6^th – May 22^nd.
• Walking: Tuesday at 6:00pm. Starting on January 7^th – March 11^th.

If you're intersted, contact Christine at Rochester@runningroom.com

Team R.E.D. Rocks!

It was a great turnout for the Pay & Dash event!   We were able to get into two restaurants, share our voice with some cheerful Christmas Songs and pay for dinner for nine tables!

Ken from the Post Bulletin was there... he was originally looking for a winter photo story, but he found more with your generosity!    Look for the article to come out next Saturday, Dec 21st.

• Saturday 7:30am - Off season striders are heading out from Brothers Bar & Grill.   When you run with OSS any distance is ok, most will go about 6 - 10 miles. 
• Sunday 8am:   Off Season Striders is at it again, this time from Panera South.   

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For anyone who missed it... Team R.E.D. members were spotted on the Today Show!   I particularly find it fun that right after they say it's too cold for the Polar Bear to be outside, they roll into something like, "in Minnesota, runners are weathering the weather.... "

Nice work Monday Maniacs!  Click the link to view...    http://www.today.com/video/today/53799013#53799013

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If you haven't gotten an e-vite to attend a wonderful run and breakfast on Dec 21st.... please drop a note to Jean and Randy at the following email addresses: randy.quint@gmail.com, runintojean@gmail.com 

They will get you in this super Christmas run!   Many thanks to Randy and Jean for their work on this!   

Volunteers Needed!

Check out the note from Judy below... she is in the midst of filling volunteer spots for the Lace Up Against Breast Cancer Half Marathon, 5K and 2 Mile walk on Feb 9th.

We're using VolunteerSpot (the leading online signup and reminder tool) to organize our upcoming activity.
Please sign up for Lace Up Against Breast Cancer - here's how it works in 3 easy steps:
   1. Click this link to go to our invitation page on VolunteerSpot: http://vols.pt/udGE7K
   2. Enter your email address: (You will NOT need to register an account on VolunteerSpot) 
   3. Sign up! Choose your spots - VolunteerSpot will send you an automated confirmation and reminders. Easy!
Note: VolunteerSpot does not share your email address with anyone. If you prefer not to use your email address, please contact Judy at weller.judy@gmail.com she can sign you up manually.

Additionally, Team R.E.D. is seeking a water station captain for Lace Up, as well as for Fetzer (in April) and the Chester Woods Trail races in June.    Please drop me a note at byron.teamred@gmail.com if you are willing to lead one of those stations (water stations are a ton of fun!)   -- Also, don't be scared of the job.. you can do it! (and I will help make sure you have what you need).

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Tonight 6:15pm!  The Freeze Your Ace Off trail run is taking place at Gamehaven scout camp.   Join us for a fun run on the new off road bike trails!

Thursday 6pm:  The Pay & Dash with Christmas Cheer is now here!   Meet at the back door of Brothers Bar & Grill in Rochester.   Be sure to dress in a festive outfit and please consider a $10 contribution to help make Pay & Dash a success!    

• What does that mean?   Before we get into full swing on the 3, 4 or 6 mile run or walk, we'll head to Azteca restaurant on 9th Street. We'll step inside with a quick Christmas Carol... then leave the hostess a pile of money to pay the tab for a table or two which we'll identify for her.   *if you don't like to sing, just move your lips!
• From there we're head to Denny's restaurant on Broadway and repeat the sounding joy.   
• We will determine how many meals we can pay for once we've collected the donations.  When we've spent our bank... we'll continue on the fitness portion of the evening... of course, ending back at Brothers Bar & Grill for our own social time.  
• I have a couple of prizes we can give away at Brothers as well! 

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I know it's been awhile since we took this picture, but I finally got my hands on it!   Below is a shot of the check presentation to the Byron Community Fund.  Nice work everyone involved in making the beer mile a great success... allowing us to give $1000 to the community fund!  How sweet it is!   

Team R.E.D. supports the Byron Community Fund!

Milestone achieved!

A few weeks ago, we reported Amy had run her furthest distance ever, along with partner in crime, Ann.  Well, this past weekend, Amy achieved her goal of running a full marathon!   Congrats to Amy and her man, Dan... as he also experienced the full marathon!   They will both have stories to share, I'm sure....

Below are a couple pics lifted from Facebook (I forgot to ask permission)....  but I'm feeling like these are safe to share...

Amy and Dan post marathon - looking good! 

Personalized menu... very nice touch! 

Next up, for these two and several other Team R.E.D. members is a run in Disney... or four runs! Several are doing the Dopey, consisting of a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon, all on consecutive days!  Wow!   Go get it done!

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If you haven't see KTTC News recently you might have missed a great story surrounding Monday Maniacs.... the station wanted to follow some runners, to see if they are truly going to brave these sub zero wind chills, and you guessed it... Monday Maniacs were out and about right on schedule!  click the link below to see it.. or visit the Team RED facebook page for another chance to view it.


KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports

Brrrrrr Fest!

It was fun to see several Team R.E.D. members at the Ice Bar for BrrrrrrFest... it was chilly, but we are a tough bunch!  

A warm night with friends... 

Here's what the week looks like... but first, two important notes

• Trails and Track nights are swapped from when you might have expected to see them. 
• Thursday has a special Christmas Spirit theme associated with it, so please be sure to read it completely. 

Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs are heading out from Beetles Bar & Grill on 2nd Street with options of 3, 4 or 6 miles.  The group will head downtown, to stay on clear sidewalks (some of them even heated!).   Be sure to dress warm, and enjoy the exercise.
Tuesday 5:30pm:  Turn up the speed on the indoor track at RCTC!   The track is free to use and open to the public on weekday mornings and evenings.  Please wear one pair of shoes into the building then change to a dry pair before hitting the track.
Wednesday 6:15pm:   The trail crew heads back to Gamehaven, but this time to take on the new bike trails.  It will prove to be a different route then we're accustomed to, yet our fearless leaders ensures us the trails are very well marked.
Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. heads to Brothers Bar & Grill for what is sure to be a fun night of fitness and giving.  Park in the back of the bar, and come in the back door for the route talk.
Please consider dressing is a Christmasy look with hats, or bells or both.....  and consider bringing a $10 contribution to the run this week.   Why?  See below...

• Team R.E.D.'s first ever Dash & Pay night!  What does that mean?   Before we get into full swing on the 3, 4 or 6 mile run or walk, we'll head to Azteca restaurant on 9th Street. We'll step inside with a quick Christmas Carol... then leave the hostess a pile of money to pay the tab for a table or two which we'll identify for her.   *if you don't like to sing, just move your lips!
• From there we're head to Denny's restaurant on Broadway and repeat the sounding joy.   
• We will determine how many meals we can pay for once we've collected the donations.  When we've spent our bank... we'll continue on the fitness portion of the evening... of course, ending back at Brothers Bar & Grill for our own social time.  

Been Busy!

Sorry for the lack of posts lately.. been a little hectic sort of week, but it'll all sort itself out in time!

• Tonight at 6pm - we're at the Bears Den in Byron!   I love going to the Den... they, along with our other great sponsors are amazing!
• This weekend from an event perspective - you can come back to Byron for Brrrrr Fest!    It's complete with a lot of family fun including Santa, the Byron Bear, tree lighting and photography at the roundabout plaza, cookies, hot chocolate and cider.. oh yeah, and an Ice Bar for the adult types.  Also, a free cup of chilli at the Bears Den!   Check out the full schedule at the following link. 
•    http://www.byronmnchamber.com/brrrfest.html
• This weekend from a fitness perspective - Off Season Striders!   
• Saturday 7:30am - Charlies on 2nd (across from St Mary's on 2nd street).  If you chicken out for the run, show up for breakfast anyway, sometime around 9am!  
• Sunday 8am - Dunn Bros on Elton Hills.  The hills might help us warm up!

I heard rumor the Predict your time Run on Jan 4th is a little slow in registrations.  This event is so much fun!  The winner is not necessarily the fastest, but the winner is the one who predicts their time the most accurately... get out and get registered!  

You can learn more, and register by visiting http://rochestertrackclub.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=28&ArticleID=426

The next person to register for the prediction run... wins a $15 gift card to the Bears Den!  Get it done! 

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I'd like to Thank Don for taking on the role of 2014 Home Host Coordinator.    You will see information on which dates are available in the spring.

If anyone is interested in any of the other volunteer opportunties we're still seeking several Water Station leads.  It's a pretty easy task, that always leads to smiles and fun along the way!

You can see more details on the November 30th post, but in short, the first few items up include Lace Up Against Breast Cancer, Fetzer Run to End Hunger and the Chester Woods trail races.     Please drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com if you can lead one of these stations.   

Quick Peek at the Week

• Monday 6pm - Maniacs run from WildWood Bar & Grill
• Tuesday 6:15pm - Trail crew heads out to Chester Woods
• Wednesday 5:30pm - Speed work on the indoor track at RCTC
• Thursday 6pm -  Team R.E.D at the Bears Den in Byron 

Seeking Volunteers!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving Day and it continues through the weekend and beyond!

Looking ahead to 2014 and seeking some volunteer coordinators for a few things.  There may be more requests for volunteers in the future, but for right now, these are the roles we're seeking to fill.  

Please email me at byron.teamred@gmail.com if you're interested and available for any of them.  Every role is reasonably easy to fulfill... it's just nice to identify a point of contact for each event.  

2014 Home Host Coordinator -  Adam W  fulfilled the role in 2013, and we'll open it up as an opportunity for another volunteer this year.   The role involves communicating which dates are available for home hosting, and making sure Tom O' knows where/what to communicate regarding a home hosted event.   i.e. "This week we're at Randy and Marilee's place... the theme is 'bring nothing' as they are providing unlimited donuts and french fries".  

Typically, home hosting starts when the weather becomes nice enough to either let people hang out, outside, or at least not track mud into someones home.

Polar Plunge Coordinator - Feb 8th- - There has been talk of a Team R.E.D. polar plunge for the Special Olympics and it sounds like a great idea!  Seeking someone to coordinate this effort.   Would entail communicating what it takes to plunge, what the team theme will be, and basically making sure the plungers know where to celebrate pre and post plunge!

Lace Up Against Breast Cancer Water Station coordinator - Feb 9th -   This is a great winter event for a great cause.  Team R.E.D. has had a themed, party type water station, and we're looking for someone to continue that tradition this year!

Millie and Trevor cruising through Team R.E.D. water stop. 

Fetzer 20K to End Hunger water station coordinator.- April 26 (tentative date).  -   This is another water station where Team R.E.D. has had a rockin' and/or country good time!   Organizers have contacted us about being a piece of this great event and we'd love to support them once again!

Team R.E.D. water stop... Cowboy Theme! 

Med City Marathon weekend.- May 25th -   Team R.E.D. is once again hosting the post race party... and Tom O'Leary is coordinating the volunteers.  This is a fun volunteer gig!  Please let me know if you're available to volunteer post race. Duties will include, checking id's, serving beer and overall having a great time!   Our Theme is once again, Summer of Love!

Wendy totally understands a summer of love theme! 

Additionally, we'll need people staffing our Team R.E.D. booth at the expo!


Chester Woods Trail Race - June 7th -  Seeking an Aid Station Coordinator for some quality time in the woods!  It takes very few people to staff this station, but it sure is fun as many of the runners stop and chat with the volunteers.   Be careful... last year volunteers ran into a Bear!

Does an bear shit in the woods?
Only when Erin scares him or if he really has to go.

Byron 4-Bagger - special awards to anyone who participates in all 4 of the following events.   Participation as a competitor and/or volunteer makes you eligible. 

• July 17th - Beer Mile for charity (charity TBD).  Tentatively I have Dan M and Jen S as race directors and they will be seeking volunteers for race day!  Free Beer for volunteers! 
• July 18th - Seeking a coordinator for a Free Kids 1/2 Mile.. and for a nominal fee, open 1 Mile.  Both to be run on the Good Neighbor Days Parade route 30 Minutes prior to the parade (tentatively 5:30pm).  - we'll also need volunteers at the start / finish lines. 
• Team R.E.D. will also participate in the parade!   
• July 19th - Byron Good Neighbor Days 5K directed by Charro.  Always seeking volunteers at registration, along the course and finish line. This is a great family event with lots of prizes every year. 
• July 20th - Trail Race at Oxbow Park to complete the 4-bagger.   This event is directed by trail king Jim Mason.  We'll need volunteers to help mark the course, registration, aid station and finish line.   

Volunteers work hard at the beer mile! 

A few other notes:

Ragbrai 2014  :   Be sure to contact Gwen at gwenjacobson@charter.net if you're interested in Joining Team R.E.D. at Ragbrai in 2014!   Sounds like it's going to be a party on wheels!  

2014 USA Track & Field Events:  Tom O'Leary will communicate the schedule, and as each individual event approaches we'll seek someone to coordinate carpools/caravans 

for the races.  

Tough Mudder / Warrior Dash / Gamehaven / Living History Farms...   all of these events are great team building events!   If you're interested in coordinating themes, car pools or keeping people on track for registration.  Let me know! 

TerraLoco Sale!

If you're in the shopping mood... I thought I'd share this link from one of our sponsors.  Brock would love to see you stop in his shop!

Be sure visit all of our sponsors as you find yourself looking for goods and services!  You'll find links to our sponsors on the right hand side of the blog.  

http://us7.campaign-archive1.com/?u=442126c566d03abfa70b73ac1&id=92a0c45d44&e=014cc64b90

Off Season Striders Update - and then some..

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!   I hope everyone finds a day, or weekend, filled with great friends and family!  Here's a quick look from the view of children..  "sometimes they call them chickens"

• Thanksgiving Day - No Official Team R.E.D....  there are some opportunities to walk,  run or race that day.
• Off Season Striders are heading out at 6:30am from Dunn Bros South (near TJ Maxx).   Off season striders is a great group that helps us fill the weekend with miles all through the winter (or off season!)
• Mom's on the Run Gobble Wobble:   This event is FREE!  Official Gobble Wobble Gift with a $25+ donation to the Salvation Army while supplies last.   https://motrgobblewobble.webconnex.com/gw5k
• 6:00am – 8:00am  Check-in & Event Day Registration
• 8:00am    Lil Turkey Trot - Kids Run
• 8:30am    5K Gobble Wobble
• 8:35am    2 mile Walk

• Turkey Day 5K - Grace Luthernn Church in Stewartville.   
• 8:15am - Registration
• 9am - TD 5K 
• http://www.grace-free.org/turkey-day-5k/index.html

• O'Leary's home hosted run - you can join the O'Leary's at 805 1st Ave NW in Byron... we're planning a fun walk or run which will end back at our home for some Cider and Coffee (Irish Creme optional). 
• 7:30am start time
• Spend 45-60 minutes outdoors
• 8:15am social time

Rolling into the weekend.. the Off Season Striders have us covered again!

• Saturday 7:30am:   Gather at Brother's Bar & Grill for 6-10 miles of fun!   Park in the back and gather for the route talk just inside the back door.
• Sunday 8am:   Jean Murray is hosting a Run & Brunch!   8am for the run or walk... 9:15am Brunch is served.  Jean's home is located at 515 17th St SW Rochester.  Please RSVP at runintojean@gmail.com  

Living History Farms 2013 - Fantastic!

A fantastic group of Team R.E.D.er's boarded the bus to Living History Farms about 3:40am Saturday and headed south.. The Pirates and Wenches ready to tackle 7 miles of terrain (some might have elected to tackle less than 7).

Living History Farms 2013 - Pirates and Wenches.   Picture courtesy of Tom Woo.'s camera.
Bus driver Ed was kind enough to snap the shot.  

Special Thanks to K&S Heating, Appliance Village and the Bears Den for their great contributions to cover the cost of the bus!   Additionally, all of these sponsors, along with Need's Car Wash  have re-upped their Team R.E.D. sponsorship!    We have some very awesome sponsors!

We held a pathetic talent contest on the bus... a couple headstand, a really good joke and some attempt to explain Elaine's inappropriate t-shiirt.    When the contest was over, no winner was declared. 

No winner determined, but we do have some great prizes from another great sponsor, TerraLoco.  So, this morning, Wendy and Tom conducted a drawing... and the results are posted below.  I'll keep the prizes in my car, so when we see each other next, we can get you the goods!  If the prize you won doesn't fit, I would suggest stopping into TerraLoco to see if you can exchange.   The winner of the Run Minnesota Shirt just needs to go see Brock, as I have already let him know who the winner was!  

Congrats to the following winners!  

• Adidas Headband - Gwen 
• Adidas Headband - Mike M.
• Adidas Wrist bands - Jess I
• Adidas Shorts, Size Large - Tod B.
• Features Elite Socks - size Large - Sarah C
• Features Elite Socks - size Med - Heidi W
• Strobe Light - Cathy T
• Run Minnesota T-Shirt - Don G. 

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Team R.E.D. week ahead... !

• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs from Beetles Bar and Grill on 2nd St SW.  This should allow us to stay on dry sidewalks, and hopefully Gwen stays upright this time!
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  The Tuesday Trail crew rolls out from Eastwood Park in Rochester.  They'll be dashing through the snow on 
• Thanksgiving Day - No Official Team R.E.D....  there are some opportunities to walk,  run or race that day.

• Mom's on the Run Gobble Wobble:   This event is FREE!  Official Gobble Wobble Gift with a $25+ donation to the Salvation Army while supplies last.   https://motrgobblewobble.webconnex.com/gw5k
• 6:00am – 8:00am  Check-in & Event Day Registration
• 8:00am    Lil Turkey Trot - Kids Run
• 8:30am    5K Gobble Wobble
• 8:35am    2 mile Walk

• Turkey Day 5K - Grace Luthernn Church in Stewartville.   
• 8:15am - Registration
• 9am - TD 5K 
• http://www.grace-free.org/turkey-day-5k/index.html

• Thankful for the ability to Walk or Run - If you need an earlier start, before you roll into the rest of your Thanksgiving day, you can join the O'Leary's at 805 1st Ave NW in Byron... we're planning a fun walk or run which will end back at our home for some Cider and Coffee (Irish Creme optional). 
• 7:30am start time
• Spend 45-60 minutes outdoors
• 8:15am social time

Winners Winners!

I think we have discovered who is the most inappropriate on our team!    They will not be named on the blog, nor will the content of their shirts be released here... but they were good!

The winner of the woman's division had an exceptionally fun entry that resonates well with fans of the tv series, the Brady Bunch.!   She is now a two time winner!

The winner of the men's division was much more direct with what he wants, and when!  His wife is also a previous winner.  I'm not sure if that means they are creative or flat out inappropriate!

I will go on record, I once again.. did not win because I am very angelic.   It's a burden I'm willing to bear.

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Everybody have fun this weekend, whether you're running Living History Farms, Off Season Striders, getting out on your own, or just showing up to bottle wine... wherever the weekend takes you, make the best of it!

Speaking of bottling wine.. you are invited to the Mesenburg home this Sunday to help with the lastest batch of Chocolate Raspberry Port (aka: CRaP).   Bottling begins at 5:30pm at 1098 8th Ave NW in Byron... and should take a couple hours at max.    -- if you plan to attend, please bring something to share, as the hosts are providing pizza.   Sampling will likely certainly take place.

Living History Farms Bus Manifesto

The Manifesto regarding the Living History Farms bus has been emailed... if you were planning to ride the bus, and didn't receive an email.. let me know!  I'll get it forwarded to you.

If you received the email, but are not planning to join us.. please let me know that too... I sometimes get mixed up on the list!

Also note... the ride is 10 bucks and that covers the drivers tip, and beer for us!  If you are interested in pulled pork, jo-jo's and cole slaw at the Den when we return, that's another 6 bucks, payable on the bus, so I can call ahead and give them an approx head count.  We'll be tired up our return, but it's good to have a little real food, and some calm down time before heading home.

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Off Season Striders info for anyone looking for some local miles with friends.   See notes from Jean below.

Saturday Nov. 23rd   
             Charlie's On 2nd    @ 7:30am   Meet in the Brentwood hotel foyer.  

?Perhaps we can head west on 2nd St and do the loop up/over History Center hill.  Those who want more miles can run to Mayowood Rd,  otherswise we head back on Cty 8 to W. Frontage   

Sunday Nov. 24th 

            Panera South    @ 8am

  We never know when it's going to be the last time until Spring-- shall we head out Mayowood trail again?   
Also-- for anyone interested in some community service,  please join RTC Board members at 9:15am for a hopefully quick trash pick-up on the bike trail on south side of Soldier's Field golf course.  Bags provided..  

  

Thursday Update: Inappropriate T-Shirt night!

The hosts are providing Soup, Beer, Wine and Water... a little fire to get it kicked off as well!  You can bring a snack or appetizer if you like... and bring a ready to have fun attitude!

Additionally, do not shy away from this evening if you are not yet prepared with an inappropriate shirt.   Our hosts have shirts to loan out!

Address and directions are in the previous posts...   should be lots of fun!  Prizes are involved!

Going the miles!

Congrats to Amy and Ann who pushed each other on their longest runs of their lives!  Each logging 17 miles for the first time, as they prepare for their first marathons!  (Amy is preparing for her 1st two marathons!)   

They got caught in a little rain for the last few minutes, but they got it done!  Very nice teamwork!

New Distance PR! Amy and Ann

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• Tuesday Trail 6:15pm: Essex park in Rochester is the place.  Fun is the plan.  We'll hit some of the trails and then enjoy the evening with some great friends!  
• Wednesday 5pm:  You can join the Rochester Track Club for the trash pickup along soldiers field.  Lots of goodies to find along that fence line!
• Meet at the traffic light post on the north side of hwy 14 (across from HyVee).  Jean will provide bags and gloves (you may want to bring a headlamp and be sure to dress warm!) 
• Plan to have a 'good works' social afterwards at either Brothers or Oneils 
• Upddate to Track pickup.. it's been rescheduled for Sunday morning at 9:15am.. same place, at the stop light across from HyVee.  Jean will provide bags and gloves.
• Thursday Team R.E.D. 6pm:  One of the favorites of the year...  Inappropriate t-shirt night!   Below is a sample of a shirt (one that likely isn't over the line enough, but good none the less) ... get creative!  Make your own or buy one.  If you can't do either.. come along anyway as Tod and Meg have plenty to share from the loaner closet! 

• Hosted by Tod & Meg at 8431 14th Street NW Byron.   ***NOTE:  while the address says NW, they are actually located on the east edge of Byron.... Here's the direction from Meg...
• Going west on Hwy 14, take a right on co rd 3. We are exactly 1/2 mile...   House on the rt side surrounded by pine trees. Can't miss it. Hope to see you there.   Contact phone #'s are 775-0931 or 272-7707 
• Routes will be in the range of 3-6 miles... you choose how far you like to go.  
• Don't have an inappropriate shirt?  (because you're a saint like Tom O).. well, no worries, Tod has loaners, turns out he has quite a few! 
• Prizes will be awarded for most tasteless t-shirts!

New Long Sleeves are in!

The highly anticipated new long sleeve shirts are in.... and the even more highly anticipated new singlets are a step closer to being in! 

Adam, Wendy and I worked out some of the final details for the singlet.  Now we're working with TerraLoco on pricing and availability of some nice Brooks mens and womens singlets to print on. High quality singlets and a fun design... Hope to get those singlets on to the printing stage very soon...

In the meantime.. here's a peek at the new long sleeve shirt.  They are the Sport Tek brand.  It's a quality wicking material, with a good fit for both men and women.   

The back...

 

The left arm..

 

The wrinkled view...   meanwhile the front still has the runner guy, with the words Team R.E.D. on left chest.

Add Zumbro Bottoms to the mix!

• Saturday 7:30am:  The Off Season Striders are gathering at Panera North with a plan to hit the Douglas trail on an out and back jaunt.   Of course a sip of coffee and breakfast to follow.
• Sunday 8am: It's the Off Season Striders again, this time from Roosters, on Circle Drive.   It'll be another run down the trails for some fitness and fun!
• Sunday 11am:   Zumbro Bottoms Up!   Rochesterites meet at Shop Ko North parking lot at 10:15 AM and we'll caravan/carpool to Zumbro Bottoms. We should arrive at 11:00 AM. Plan on a nice slow loop around the bottoms 15 miles or so. We'll get some refreshments afterwards
• We will meet at the West Assembly area at Zumbro Bottoms
• Note: Wear Bright Clothing - blaze orange is good!  Don't want to be on the wrong end of a mistake in the woods with a hunter.
• Monday Maniacs 6pm: Head to Newts North along Hwy 52 Frontage Rd, near Menards.  Should be a great location for some walkin', runnin' and funnin'!  
• Tuesday Trail 6:15pm: Essex park in Rochester is the place.  Fun is the plan.  We'll hit some of the trails and then enjoy the evening with some great friends!  
• Thursday Team R.E.D. 6pm:  One of the favorites of the year...  Inappropriate t-shirt night! 
• Hosted by Tod & Meg at 8431 14th Street NW Byron.   ***NOTE:  while the address says NW, they are actually located on the east edge of Byron.... Here's the direction from Meg...
• Going west on Hwy 14, take a right on co rd 3. We are exactly 1/2 mile...   House on the rt side surrounded by pine trees. Can't miss it. Hope to see you there.   Contact phone #'s are 775-0931 or 272-7707 
• Routes will be in the range of 3-6 miles... you choose how far you like to go.  
• Don't have an inappropriate shirt?  (because you're a saint like Tom O).. well, no worries, Tod has loaners, turns out he has quite a few! 
• Prizes will be awarded for most tasteless t-shirts!

• Saturday Nov 23rd 4am: ... Living History Farms Off Road Race (and bus ride!)    More details to come!
   

Trail Night!

It's warmer in the woods.. or so they say!   Join us tonight at Whitewater State Park for a nice trail run!  Be sure to wear a headlamp (that rule applies the rest of the winter season!) 

Rochester people meet at RCTC Fieldhouse parking lot at 6:00PM to join a carpool/caravan.  From there we'll head to the Nature Store at the park 6:30ish

There's always a post run celebration, and this time we'll celebrate Dan's Birthday!   He was looking young on Saturday as he scampered across Gamehaven grounds.

Here Dan photo bombs the chick pic

Jen, Meagan and Oliver - Oliver looks a tad chilly!

Steve & Dan with that peaceful, easy feeling

Teri - That's a new look!

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Thursday 6pm:  We're at the Bears Den once again!  Always fun at the Den, we think we have a few prizes to give away Thursday night!  Plan on 3, 4 or 6 miles then join the comfort of the indoors post run or walk.
Saturday 7:30am:  The Off Season Striders are gathering at Panera North with a plan to hit the Douglas trail on an out and back jaunt.   Of course a sip of coffee and breakfast to follow.
Sunday 8am: It's the Off Season Striders again, this time from Roosters, on Circle Drive.   It'll be another run down the trails for some fitness and fun!


 

November is a fun month!

• Nov 9th - Gamehaven True Cross Country Race at 9am - It sure looks like registration has been rockin' with lots of high school teams, as well as us old school kids at heart!  

Team R.E.D. has a theme of Hippie!  Summer of Love!

 

• race day registration is available at 8am.. come out for the fun!
Where is gamehaven? Click on the following link to find it..
• https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Gamehaven+Scout+Reservation%2C+Simpson+Road+Southeast%2C+Rochester%2C+MN&hl=en&sll=44.021631%2C-92.469899&sspn=0.223176%2C0.438766&safe=vss&t=m&hq=Gamehaven+Scout+Reservation%2C&hnear=Simpson+Rd+SE%2C+Rochester%2C+Minnesota+55904&z=11Gamehaven 
• Nov 15th - Ragbrai Registration opens.    Talk of forming a Team R.E.D. Ragbrai team is picking up steam.  If you're interested in some serious B.E.D. during the Ragbrai bike event in Iowa... contact Gwen at gwenjacobson@charter.net
• Nov 21st - Inappropriate t-shirt night is back!  Hosted by Tod & Meg... keep in mind, nothing is off limits!  In fact, Tod says if you would wear it in front of your kids, then it's not inappropriate enough!
• Nov 23rd - Living History Farms Off Road Race - We board the bus at 4am in Byron and return at 4pm!  Team R.E.D.'s theme is Pirates and/or Wenches... you can be either one!  

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More upcoming group running opportunities below.

 

• Saturday 7:30am:  If you're not running Gamehaven, Newts North is the scene for Off Season Striders. Join them for the fun!
• Sunday 8am:  The Off Season Striders are at it again.. this time from Brothers Bar & Grill... park in the back, and come inside the back door to hear the route talk.
• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs will gather at Brothers Bar & Grill... same drill, park in the back for the route chatter. We'll stay on some well lit, dry trails and/or streets.
• Tuesday 6pm:  TerraLoco continues the 5K fun run series.  $5 entry gets you in the run, and the money goes to a local charity, a new charity most every week!
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  I believe the Trail Crew is heading to Whitewater but check back as I'm confirming this.  Be sure to pack the headlamp!   My guess is there will be a stop at Mauer Brothers Tavern in Elba post run.
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. gets it going from the Bears Den in Byron once again.  We are back to the Den as our 1st and 3rd Thursday at the Den schedule is thrown off by the awesome home hosted Inappropriate t-shirt night on the 21st!

And another critical link in our mission to prove beer is good... Thanks for sharing it Lindsey!  http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/11/08/runners-who-love-beer/?smid=tw-nytimeshealth&seid=auto&_r=0



We may or may not like it....

... but it's fall / winter running time!  

Be sure to wear something reflective during every early morning run and every evening run (or walk!)   Headlamps are awesome... some drivers will complain about them being distracting, however, I would argue, at least they saw us!

Here's a pic of the SE Mn trail run on Tuesday... I continue to suggest you get to these runs, they are so much fun!  We are not nearly as cold as it appears.... and there is a castle behind us!  How often do you run to a castle?  Well, you can run through one on Saturday!

The few the proud...  Peter, David, Oliver, Anhar, Tom... and not pictured here is the leader... Jim! 
 

• Thursday 6pm:   Team R.E.D. gathers at the Bears Den in Byron.  We'll have routes from 3 to 5 miles.... keep in mind the Vikings play that evening, so the Den will likely be hopping!  Wear some football gear post workout if you see fit.. I still fit into my Jared Allen jersey, we're about the same size!
• Saturday 9am:  Gamehaven True Cross Country Race!  Not registered?  No worries, you can register at the Running Room on Friday evening, or on race day morning starting at 7am.   
• Team R.E.D. has a theme of Hippie - Summer of Love!  (get your hippe on, but put some under clothes under there, it may be a tad chilly!) - The Team R.E.D. banner will be on display so you can find the crew! 
• If you're currently a Team R.E.D. member or not... but want to get on board with the hippie theme... just do it!  Come visit us, get involved in the fun! 
• Saturday 7:30am:  If you're not running Gamehaven, but want some miles you can meet Off Season Striders for some miles and fun at Newts North.
• Sunday 8am:  The Off Season Striders are at it again.. this time from Brothers Bar & Grill... park in the back, and come inside the back door to hear the route talk.

Another great pic appeared tonight... Team R.E.D. is now on the wall at TerraLoco!  They are a great addition to our running community and now showing off the R.E.D. !