Boston Strong

For those going to Boston this weekend... we are proud of each and every one of you!  As a send off, Here's an Irish Blessing for you all. 

May the road rise to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
The rains fall soft upon your fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand 


Boston Stong Runners, please see the email from Jess regarding a great chance to get together with friends at this spectacular event! If you are not on her list below, and want to be, please RSVP to Jess right away as this reservation is already for a big group! Her email is contained in the message below.  

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On this second anniversary of the horrific bombing of the Boston Marathon, it seems fitting to post this message of solidarity.  For those in Boston who would like to get together, I have confirmed our reservation at Cheers on Beacon Hill in Boston (please note there are two Cheers locations - Beacon Hill is where we are meeting) this coming Sunday, April 19th at 5pm. 

 I currently have the following Team RED members, friends and family members on the list:

      Dave and Elaine Eide along with their niece and friends
      Lorelei Hanson
      Gwen Jacobson
      Andy, Erin and Boston Heminway
      Dave Morell and spouse
      Susan Forsythe
      Sarah and Anna Schettle
      Shaun Palmer
      Andy Becker
      Thom Woo
      Theresa Schumacker/family/friends

        All told, we have a little over 25 people, but Cheers has been very accommodating and it will work out just fine. You can reach me at jfeda@hotmail.com if there are any questions. Feel free to wear your Boston anthem jacket or other Boston marathon gear if you would like. It will be fun to have Team RED represent. Looking forward to seeing some familiar people in Boston... specifically where everyone knows your name. So excited!

        "Boston Strong"

         Jess

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Here's a link to a story on Fox 47 with Shaun Palmer... Shaun did a nice job in this piece! So did Jim Li....    http://www.myfox47.com/story/28808715/2015/04/15/rochester-runner-to-return-to-boston-marathon#.VS590EmJ6g0.facebook

Below is a great short clip leading to last years Boston Marathon.  It's worth a look... 

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• Saturday 7:15am:  The Long Run from the RAC rolls out... and ends in Byron!  - We will have shuttles to get you to Rochester if you need to get back, otherwise just consider staying, we can always use more tax payers!  
• The route is 19 miles and posted at http://runningrochester.blogspot.com/
• If you would like to bring a drop bag of your own with dry clothes for when you reach Byron, Tom O' will be at the RAC to collect those bags and transport them to Byron. 
• You  don't have to run that entire route to end in Byron... you could run from the RAC directly to Byron! That's 7-8 miles of goodness and it ends with a breakfast for charity! 
• Randy Quint is our hero with the Water Stop half way between the RAC and Byron! Thanks Randy! 
• If you're not interested or available for the pancake feed, it's all good.  You can still get your miles without participating in the Pancake Feed.. just run to the aid station of Randy's and from there, head back to Rochester. 

• Sunday 8am:  The Off Season Striders are heading out from The People's Food Coop.  This is a great location to get out and run or walk.. then come back for the social!  
• I am planning to pre-load some miles starting at 7am. If anyone cares to join me, please do! Pace will be 9-9:30/miles for the pre-load. 

Week Ahead

Zumbro Bottoms Celebration time! 

There was a lot of activity this weekend!  Along with the the long run training on Saturday, there were several races and the Fools Five Road Race takes place Sunday afternoon!

Congrats to all who got after it... I lifted a few pics off Facebook to try and capture the spirit of it, but I'm sure I have missed some events and people!

Steve celebrates his Goldy's 10 Mile finish with Thor

Mark is also celebrating Goldy's 10 Mile with Jon!

Andy raced in Abiline KS... a Marathon P.R. of 3:07!  Good for 6th place overall!

Bri & Jen rockin' the hoodies at Zumbro Bottoms

Mason sighting at Zumbro Bottoms! 

I see a theme.. this is why Mason likes the trails!

Renee PR'd an 8K course... overall winner and she found 26 cents!

No pictures available, yet it should be noted, Kim & Gail Hakes raced a 5K this weekend, and Kim PR'd!  Congrats!

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Temps reaching the 60s all week... sounds good to me!

• Monday 5:30pm:  Hillbillies do it again! Meet at the parking lot of Edina Realty, near the TJ Maxx Plaza and get on the hill for some 'making you better' hill repeats! 
• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are heading to Wildwood Bar & Grill and planning to keep the route pretty flat along the trail system. Turns out some are recovering from a fun Trail Race! 
• Tuesday 6pm: TerraLoco keeps the good work rolling with a charity 5K. Bring a $5 donation to TerraLoco and you are in!  That series is all goodness. 
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  The Tuesday Trail Crew is heading back to Eastwood park in Rochester.  It turns out last weeks hail and lightning didn't make for a great opportunity at Eastwood, but this weeks forecast appears much more favorable! 
• Wednesday 6pm:  Speed work on the Track in Byron.   The track is located behind the Middle School at 601 4th St NW Byron. We'll have middle school approved music on the stadium sound system... Playas gonna play play play play play, Haters gonna hate hate hate hate hate, Shake it off.. Shake it off!  -- if you're, maybe I'll teach you some dance moves!  
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. is in Byron at the Bears Den. I'm sure there will be some creative routes of 3, 4 or 6 miles.. and of course, a great social inside post run! 

Weekend is arriving... as is the Sun!

The speed session on the track in Byron was rocking Wednesday night! Well, more like pop'ing with a sound track built for 10-13 year olds... but it was fun!

Keep an eye on the blog for updates... but next week, I anticipate we'll have another Wednesday Night Track Workout (again in Byron on the all-weather track).  Eventually we may offer some progressives to break up the track workouts.  Also note, the Hill work is planning to continue too!  So you have many choices to consider as you scan the options!

The weekend looks to be spring like!  Of course, rain and cold is often spring like as well.. so we take what we get and enjoy it!

Here's what coming up this weekend.... by the way, Best wishes to our friends and teammates running either the Zumbro Bottoms 100, 50 or 17 mile races this weekend, and to those running Fools Five!  Got get 'em!

• Saturday 7:15am:  The Saturday Morning Long Run from the RAC is set for 16-18 miles with aid stations at Mayo Credit Union on 2nd St, Bamber Valley School and Soldiers Field.  You can view the route by visiting http://runningrochester.blogspot.com/
• I haven't seen any discussion of a pre-loading group yet, but when I do I'll post the start time here (pre-load is for people who either want/need more miles, or want/need to get done earlier). 
• If you're interested in a post run social, several have been heading to Charlies Eatery & Pub on 2nd Street, I recommend joining the group for coffee, breakfast and possibly another beverage of your choice!  
• Saturday 9am:  There is a 5K in Rochester. The Timmay 5K runs at Silver Lake -  more details at   http://rochestertrackclub.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=28&ArticleID=710
• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders will be out and about.  I have not yet seen the location, but check back as I'll post it when I know it! 

Wednesday Workout, Pancakes and Donuts!

The Wednesday workout poll is now closed.  We are doing a speed session on the track in Byron at 6pm.  The track is located behind the Byron Middle School, 601 4th St NW.

For this first workout, it will be 300M repeats with 100M recovery.  You should be running your 300M at your 5K pace or faster.  Don't know your 5K pace?  We'll help you set a goal pace.. but you really should race a 5K and find out the answer to your 5K pace!

Track workouts are much like hill workouts, in that, no matter how fast you are, you are always with the group as we're all in the same space.  Do not be intimidated about trying a track workout, we all run to our ability, recover and do it again!

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The annual Pancake Breakfast for JDRF is on again!  It's April 18th at the Bears Den in Byron.  They are so good to help us with this event.  The Den donates 100% of the food and labor to make this happen!  All of your contributions go entirely to JDRF, the leading funder of Type-1 Diabetes research (aside from our federal government).   

Once again, Randy Quint has stepped up to help us incorporate the long run from the RAC to end in Byron!  If you'd like to participate in that journey from Rochester to Byron, we'll make sure to transport dry clothing for you (assuming you provide a drop bag)... to the Bears Den, so you can run to the Den, change, and enjoy!  Randy is once again providing an aid station 1/2 way between Roch and Byron... amazing work he's been doing for years!   

You've been great supporters in the past, and if you can again, we sure appreciate it! If you can't make it and would like to contribute, you can join Megan's Roll & Stroll team and make a contribution at the following site  http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=4744&pg=personal&px=1006122

I know many of you will be in Boston at the time of the Pancakes... we'll be cheering for you from Minnesota! 

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The Donut Run online registration is now open.  http://form.jotform.us/form/50926536282156

The event benefits the Byron Cross Country program and we use the funds to take a 4 day / 3 night training trip to northern Wisconsin. It's a critical part of our training in the early season, and a wonderful reward for these young athletes who put so much passion into the sport!

I love Cross Country!  Please consider participating, donating or volunteering!  Thank you much!

Easter Sunday.... and beyond!

I hope everyone is getting a chance to celebrate the season, and enjoy the weather as well!

• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders have added an Easter Sunday run... if you're available, meet at Panera South and log some miles with the crew!
• Monday 5:30pm:  The Hillbillies moved the hill workout Monday for this week. Meet at the Edina Realty parking lot near TJ Max Plaza   
• Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs are heading to Cowboy Jacks on south Broadway in Rochester. This is a fun location to get out and move from!  Plan on anywhere from 4-6 miles and come back for the social! 
• Tuesday 6pm:  TerraLoco continues it's 5K series for charity!  Bring $5 as a contribution and crank the wheels for 3.1 miles!  
• Tuesday 6:15pm: The Tuesday Trail crew is heading to Eastwood Park for a twisty, windy fun run through the park!  Meet in the parking lot near the baseball fields. 
• Wednesday 6pm Two Options - Please vote on the poll to the right.  In the event you don't care which one we do, feel free to vote on both.  But please only vote if you are planning to attend one of the options.  Poll closes Tuesday and the plan will be updated. 
• Option I:  Progressive Run on the Douglas Trail.  We would start and finish at the trail head parking lot near IBM and take our post workout to Broadway Pizza.  
• Option II: Speed Work on the Byron Track.  We would re-introduce everyone to what speedwork is and take our post workout to the Bears Den.  
• Thursday 6pm: Team R.E.D. is heading back to Billoti's on Civic Center Drive (this is the old Beer Bellyz location).  There is a lot of space at this location.. I will request the high tops as they seem to be much better for socializing post workout.  

Grandmas Lodging

One room has opened up in the Team R.E.D. block at St Scholastica.  Contact Gwen at gwenjacobson@charter.net if you're interested in joining the fun!  * Note: the rates at the dorms are excellent, especially compared to the hotel lodging prices!

Check out Thursday nights crew out of the Bears Den... it was a lot of fun and more joined us as the evening progressed!

Front: Jill, Stephanie, Dave, Gwen, Ann, Elaine, Jess, Dawn, Shane
Back: Shannon, Dan, Tom, Wendy, Jim, Bob, Dana, Sarah, Aaron

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Congratulations are past due for Team R.E.D. member Shannon Howard as she completed her first Half Marathon at the Return of the Robin!  Nice work Shannon! 

Below she is pictured celebrating the finish... the lower left pic contains three R.E.D. members with Shannon, joined by Jill & Mark!  - Nice job all! 

Quick Notes!

The Torchlight 5K is a Team R.E.D. Charter bus event!  Register now!  If you register by end of day Friday, they will mail you your bib, tee shirt and stuff... also give you one extra beer ticket!  Also, if you want to be on the bus please email me at byron.teamred@gmail.com -- we need to get a headcount and calculate cost (rumor has it a sponsor is chipping in again!) 

Also, this is a USATF Team Circuit event... so consider joining usatfmn.org so you can get the preferred start with your teammates and $10 off registration of this race!  It's a super fun event! Did we mention we are chartering a bus?  - get on board! fyi...  you can ride the bus and run the race without being a USATF member.. but they will not let you line up with the rest of Team R.E.D at the start. 

You can register for the event at http://www.torchlight5k.com/page/show/502309-registration and select the 5K Championship option if you are a USATF member.   You will need to enter your member number to complete the registration. 

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Reminder to those of you heading to celebrate the Boston Marathon... there is a Team R.E.D. reservation at Cheers and you'll want to contact Jess at jfeda@hotmail.com to make sure there is room for you at the table!  What a great way to enjoy Boston... Together! 

Check out the post below for other details regarding this weekend... there are all sorts of pre-load options for you long runners on Saturday! 

Sunshine!

Gotta love the sunshine of late!  I know the SE MN Trail Runners do!   --- consider joining them on Tuesday evenings, as it's always fun!

Quarry Hill! 

• Tonight we're at the Bears Den in Byron... come out and enjoy the scenic view of the birthplace of Team R.E.D.   We have a back of the pack leader for tonight too!
• Saturday 7:15am:  The long run starts from the RAC and I would estimate the marathon distance to be 17ish miles, while the half marathon will likely hit the 8-9 mile range.  If you are looking for 20+ miles see a couple of preload options below! 
• Preload 5:30am:  There is a group starting to preload miles at 5:30am as they need to finish up early.  Meet at the RAC if you want to get a jump start on your long run! 
• Prelaod 6am: There is another group starting at 6am, because they are not that crazy to start at 5:30am, but not so lazy to wait until 6:15am. 
• Preload 6:15am:  There is yet another group starting to preload at 6:15am to get an hour head-start on the long run.   
• Saturday Post Long Run - Meet at Charlies on 2nd for Breakfast! 
• Easter Sunday:  I have not seen any planned group runs for Easter Sunday... enjoy the day all! 

Progressive or Not Progressive

For tonight's run.. gather at the back of Brothers Bar & Grill.  I'm not sure if it will be a progressive run or not... simply depends if someone wants to take the lead on that. If not, group run and enjoy!

More updates coming later today, as there are a couple of early start opportunities for Saturday!

More ahead!

Take a peek at Team R.E.D. member Dana Palmer as she is showing up on the pages of Rochester Magazine!  Looking good, feeling good! Congrats on the photo shoot Dana! 

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Congrats to Dan Leach as he has knocked out a couple of medals recently.. crushing events in both Dallas and San Francisco! 

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Also, congrats to Andy Becker as he cruised to a 3rd place finish at the Trailbreaker Marathon in Wisconsin!  Andy makes it look so easy!

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I haven't seen results yet, but it sounds like the Return of the Robin 5K, 10K & Half Marathon went very well! Congrats to all of you who participated! 

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The snow it is melting!  The snow it is melting!  The snow it is melting!

Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are taking off from Glynners Pub in the Northbrook Shopping Center, 1643 N Broadway.  Come out regardless of your pace, meet some people and get some fitness in!
Tuesday 5:30pm:  I haven't heard for sure yet, but typically the Hillbillies roll at this time! Check back to be sure, but if it goes as usual, the plan is to meet at Edina Realty Parking lot near TJ Maxx and hit the hills for repeats!
Tuesday 6pm:  TerraLoco continues the great work with their Tuesday Night Charity 5K's... bring a $5 donation to the cause and have some fun! This is a low key event, with no official results.
Tuesday 6:20pm: The Tuesday Trail crew is going to Quarry Hill.. this is always a popular spot for a great night on the trails. Meet in the parking lot near the tennis courts on West side of the park.  Note: you are not meeting at the main entrance parking lot, you are on the west side of the park.
Wednesday 6pm: The progressive run is TBD pending a location choice.   Turns out the security at IBM parking lot frowns on speedy people running around the perimeter road.
Thursday 6pm: Team R.E.D. goes to the Bears Den in Byron.  It's going to be a beautiful night for a group run or walk.  Join us!

Busy week.. and here's to the Weekend!

Sounds like a strong turnout at Brothers Bar & Grill this evening! ... we have more to look forward to this weekend!  

• Saturday 7:15am - Marathon & Half Marathon training long runs take off from the RAC.  This week's distance is 15 miles - you could sneak in some extra miles around Silver Lake or Soldiers Field if you're looking to do so! 
• Plan on joining the group for some breakfast post workout at Charlies Eatery & Pub on 2nd Street in Rochester. 
• Saturday the Return of the Robin Half Marathon, 10k & 5K take place, with a great post race party! It all takes place at Graham Arena #2 -  check out the following link for additional details.  http://rochestertrackclub.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=28&ArticleID=697 
• Sunday 8am - Off Season Striders are heading to the Peoples Food Co-op for this weekends run. It's a fun place to meet, and log some miles!  Meet inside the foyer for the route talk, stick around for the social post workout!  

Quick Hitters

For tonights gathering in Douglas you can plan to run on the roads, trails or if you prefer, bring your snowshoes!   - we'll meet at 6pm in the parking lot along the trail.  Post workout is the always lovely Douglas Saloon and Social Club!

The lodging reserved for Team R.E.D. at the College of St Scholastica during the Grandmas Marathon weekend is full.  

If you are attending any portion of Grandmas Marathon and have not yet registered, you can do so using the following link http://iamteamhope.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=1127954&lis=1&kntae1127954=87DC6F5FAC77467F98E6658213E37E90&team=6271191  and your registration fees will go to the Pancreatic Cancer Network.  This link is provided by the Hogan Family... and they want you to know you do not need to do any fundraising above or beyond your entry fee! What a great way to raise money!

Don't Need A Weatherman to Know Which Way the Wind Blows!

Winter is back!  Temporarily.

Some Team R.E.D.ers found a rain soaked marathon in Georgia!  While others sought nicer weather up north der!    St Paul was near perfect for racing! Regardless of the elements, Team R.E.D. get's after it, very nice work everyone!

Gwen & Kasey before and after!  Nice work ladies!

The Mesenburgs found the deal of the day! 

USATF Team Circuit Representatives at the Irish Run...                                                                                            Andy, Tom, Jen, Jill, Roger.. and hiding in back is the guy with a PR today.. Lance!  Nice work all! 

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• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are gathering at the trailhead in Douglas MN.   This is a fun place to run or walk from, as it's along the trail, giving you a choice of paved or dirt... and on Monday, a bit of snow might be in place, but consider it all part of the adventure!   Some are even planning to bring snowshoes!  
• We will wrap up the workout with a social at the Douglas Social Club.. we love this place! 
• Tuesday 5:30pm:  The Hillbillies are at it again.... Of course they are, because it makes you stronger! Meet at the parking lot of Edina Realty near TJ Max and repeat the hills for strength.  A hill workout is speed work in disguise!  
• Tuesday 6pm:  TerraLoco has their charity 5K.  What a great non-pressure event in which you help raise money for a local charity, while getting your workout in!  
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  The Trail Crew is heading to Millville! This is another super fun spot to run, and enjoy the post workout. 
• It's a out and back so suitable for all speeds and distances. You can't get lost on this one! Meet at the parking lot for the ball diamond just south of town on Co. Hwy 2. Just off the road, you can't miss it! Most the group will probably do about 6 miles. A few will stop after at Lucky 7 for taco bar and all you can eat buffet.
• Wednesday 6pm: TBD if we have a progressive run... we will watch the weather and consider if the roadways are clear to allow for the proper progression. There is not much value in this workout if you're slipping and sliding.. but if things look clear, there's a ton of value in this workout and we'll be on! 
• Thursday 6pm: Team R.E.D. heads to Brothers Bar & Grill.  We'll gather at the back door (park in back).. and hit the trail system for mileage in the range of 3, 4 or 6 miles.  Brothers is so good with groups, the post workout will be a lot of fun! 

New Member!

What a great night at Team R.E.D. on Thursday!  We had another new member join tonight!  One who we actually had a shirt to fit her!  New shirts and singlets are both on the way.. anyone past due is getting handled (unless they requested the color orange, that is not yet handled).

Angela joins Team R.E.D.... we are lucky to have her on our team! 

The Dream Team! 

Rumor has it the Wednesday progressive was also fantastic, and we see the Tuesday Trail run kicked butt too!   Let's stay after it people!

To protect the innocent, these butts shall remain nameless. 

Awesome mix of new and returning faces!  Trail Crew is on it! 

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• Saturday 7:15am:  The Long run from the RAC is scheduled for 15 miles. There are water/gatorade stations along the way. What a great way to get your long miles in! 
• Several members are gathering early to preload at 6am. If you want/need more than 15 miles, this is a great option. 
• The Post Long run gathering is set for Brothers Bar & Grill.  A great breakfast awaits!
• Some R.E.D. members are planning to cut the course to approx 10 miles.  
• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders is gathering at Panera north (note North!.. ) It's not the most common Panera location, so think north!  
• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are heading to an all time favorite of mine.. Douglas Saloon!  Park in the trail parking lot, in Douglas.  We'll do an out and back of your favorite distance and then settle in to the most comfortable chairs in Southern Minnesota...  Bring cash, credit cards are not accepted at this establishment. 

Have a Safe & Happy St Patrick's Day!

For the USA Track & Field Club competition... Team R.E.D. is in the Blue Division, and below is a list of clubs we are competing against. Let's get after them!  The first circuit race is this Sunday at 1:20pm in St Paul... it's called the Irish Run and is an 8K.  Our carpool departs from Rochester at 10:30am.   If you're not sure how to 'race' for Team R.E.D. but you are interested, please drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com 

Blue

Gear West Racing Team

Harriet Run Club

Life Time Run

MDRA

Minnesota R.E.D.

Molar Milers

North Shore Striders

Running Ventures

St. Cloud River Runners

Sweat Shop Training Team

Team R.E.D.

Twin Cities Running Club

Twin Cities Track Club AAA

Week Ahead!

Be sure to check out today's post for a look at the week ahead, but also yesterdays post to get updated on some of the other great things taking place!

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All sorts of Team R.E.D. members were out this morning with the long training run group from the RAC.  Mileage was reported anywhere from 6 to 23!  Nice work this morning! I believe there were personal distance PRs recorded by Claire & Mike!

Kentucky Jim was in Jacksonville Florida running a 15K! It's the longest he has raced! Congrats Jim! This past week, Jim also logged the most miles of his running career.. he's crushing it!

Jim's 15K post race celebration! 

 Below are some of the other pics I've found on Facebook this morning with R.E.D. members achieving great things! --  I know there are more of you out there staying fit and having fun!

Ron and Kristine - Irish for a Day - 19 Miles and Guinness! 

Dan at Get Lucky - Sporting a Run Minnesota Shirt! 

Heather and Friends - Get Lucky! 

Troy get's lucky! 

Tina find Luck O' the Lake! 

Team R.E.D. Metro at Get Lucky!  Love to get together with them more often! 

Team R.E.D. Metro & Mothership

Mothership with the Metro King Pin

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• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs head to Wildwood (located near TJ Maxx).  The trails are all clear, let's have some fun in the sun! 
• Tuesday 5:30pm:  The Hillbillies are hitting the hills once again from the Edina Realty parking lot near TJ Maxx.  Run up, run down, repeat!  - it does indeed make you stronger!
• Tuesday 6pm:  TerraLoco continues the Charity 5K for Channel One food bank!  Bring non-perishable foods, and $5 to enter!  
• Tuesday 6:15pm:  The Trail crew is celebrating St Patty's Day at Chester Woods!  Get out the green and join the trail fun!  Meet in the parking lot near the Beach House.  They are running in honor of Oliver, David and Myself!  - sadly I can not make it as I have prior commitments with the Byron Track Team and Marathon Training class. Please feel free to toss an extra one back on my behalf!    
• Wednesday 6pm:  The progressive run is on again... we'll meet at Broadway Pizza in Rochester and again work our way to the IBM perimeter road for a series of progressive miles.  Each mile gets faster.  Come give it a shot! 
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. is at the Bears Den in Byron.  We'll have routes of 3, 4 or 6 miles.. and I'm sure we'll have a great post workout celebration.  
• If you have concerns about keeping up with the group, Tom O' has signed up to lead the Back of the Pack crew. No one left behind!  
• Note: This is perfect car wash weather! Consider coming early to get your car washed at Need's Car Wash in Byron!  The Eide's put in a new wash, and would love to see you give it a shot!  Many of you already have free car wash tickets from a previous give-away, what a great time to use them!  - Also note, the Byron Marketplace is selling the $12 wash for just $7!   - I've love to get some pictures of Team R.E.D. members rolling through the car wash! 

Long Past Due Update!

Best wishes to all those running this weekend!  Several members will be at the Get Lucky, and I'm sure they'll have a blast!  Send us pics!

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As for this past Thursday, what a great crew filled with a bunch of new faces!  The service was interesting, but people seemed to have a great time, I think we could try it again one day!

Thursday @ Billottis

Alex and Kim join us for the first time! 

One of the many packs!

Enjoying the post workout... We just keep pouring into the establishment! 

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It's been a fantastic few weeks of meeting new people! We have gained members at such a rate that our T-shirt supply dried up... the new shirts are already in process (along with the new singlets) and we're placing another order to keep up with the fun!  For anyone who has not received their tee's, we'll get them to you very soon!

By the way, each of you awaiting a shirt are receiving a car wash courtesy of Need's Car Wash in Byron!  It's a $12 value with the brand new equipment!  -  It's now part of the new membership award!

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• Sunday March 22nd is the Irish Run 8K... this is part of the USATF MN Championship series... Team R.E.D. competes with clubs across the state!  It's super fun, and super fast!  
• Carpool / Caravan will depart from the Gander Mountain Parking lot, near the Kwik Trip along 55th St NW at 10:30am on race day.  email me at byron.teamred@gmail.com if you are planning to join that carpool so we can leave as soon as we know we have everyone on board!
• Join us regardless of your pace... it's way fun to know you're in a competition beyond the race itself.  If you want to race for Team R.E.D. you do need to be a member of USA Track & Field.  
• You can join USATF at the following link, and make sure you select Team 0435 - Team R.E.D. (don't get off track and accidentally pick Minnesota RED unless that's you're intent!)   http://usatfmn.org/membership
• What does a USATF membership get me?  Well, in my opinion the best thing is guaranteed entry into lottery races, i.e. TC 10 Mile, TC 1 Mile.. - there are also other discounts to many races!

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Another upcoming event that is sure to be fun is the Return of the Robin Run!  They have added a Half Marathon to the already existing 5K & 10K!  Your race will end with a great post race party cpmplete with bloody's and beer, and don't forget Hairball at night!  

Check it out http://www.returnoftherobin.com/all-events#n2

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One of our newest members, Mark St. Peter is heading up a great opportunity for Team R.E.D. to remain involved in the community as volunteers!  I know so many of us enjoy doing just that, volunteering!  

Mark is leading our crew in the Making Rochester A Littmarkst.peter@cityautoglass.comer Bit Better campaign.  It's an impressive program reaching it's 9th year!  -- This years event takes place April 18th - 25th. 

A Litter Bit Better! Volunteers can be proud of their accomplishments over the last eight years. To date approximately 95 tons of litter has been collected in Rochester through this program. 

Let's make this a fun way for Team R.E.D. to contribute!  If interested, contact Mark at markst.peter@cityautoglass.com  so we can put in a bid for a section of Rochester!  Team R.E.D. members rock when it comes to volunteering!  - I bet we can find a way to celebrate after our good deed is complete! 

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Are you going to the Boston Marathon this year?  If so, be sure to contact Jess, as she has made reservations at Cheers!  See her note below.. you can RSVP for the fun at jfeda@hotmail.com 

For those running Boston, I would like to extend an invitation to join us for dinner at Cheers Beacon Hill at 5 pm on Sunday April 19th. We thought it would be a great way to get together while in Boston and hang out before the big day! There is pasta on the menu and quality brews. If you would like to join us, please let me know so I know how many to plan for (we currently have a reservation for 25). Join us for fun and good food at a place where we really do know your name!

Quickie!

Quick notes... more details (and pictures to follow!)  

• Saturday 7:15am:  Marathon & Half Marathon Training long runs roll out of the RAC! The Marathon route appears approx 16.5 miles... I would anticipate the Half Marathoners to be in the 9 mile range. 
• You do not need to be a member of the RAC, the Track Club, Team R.E.D. or any group to join this run.  Please bring $1 to help offset the cost of bananas and gatorade. 
• Many members of Team R.E.D. are gathering at Charlies Eatery & Pub on 2nd street after the long run on Saturday!  Join the fun!
• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders are running from Panera South (near Hy Vee south).   It's a fun group and stick around for coffee, breakfast and chatter afterwards!  

Another Full Week!

The weather is cooperating.. and the Saturday morning long run from the RAC was a great success!  Several Team R.E.D. members found the miles easier in that group! Maybe they showed up because there was beer at the water station? No no.. they showed up because they were dedicated! -- it should be noted, one dixie cup at a time, they did manage to consume 7 beers on the 13-20 mile run! 

Carbs! - pic courtesy of Oliver. 

The pic below is from this past Thursday at the Bears Den... Center is Bob, one of our newest Team R.E.D. Members!  Welcome Bob! 

Standing: Jill, Mike, Don Bob, Sarah, Lance, Marisa, Tom,
Kneeling:  Dave, Gwen, Dan, Elaine, Jess, Shannon
Not Pictured:  You!  Get out with us!  

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Turn our clocks ahead one hour.. and enjoy the daylight evening fitness! It's a very confusing concept.. spring forward, fall ahead or back, or don't fall down?  - This clip below captures the critical nature of the changing of the clock.

 

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Needs Car Wash in Byron is now offering a free Car Wash to every new member of Team R.E.D.!  If you join now, your $20 will get you a Team R.E.D. T-Shirt and a $12 wash at the newest wash in the area!   --   Don't feel bad for the current members as they already had a shot at car washes when the Eides passed them out at WildWood a few weeks ago!   

Additionally, if you want a discount.. another Team R.E.D. sponsor, Byron MarketPlace, is selling NEEDs $12 car wash for just $7... Wendy and I got in on the deal!  

Have you recently joined and not yet received your Team R.E.D. Shirt?  Bonus... you'll get a car wash too! 

The Week Ahead! 

Monday 5:30pm:  The Hillbillies are meeting again at the parking lot of Edina Realty near TJ Maxx for repeats that only make you stronger!  Join them.. then join Monday Maniacs crew at Wild Bills!
Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are heading to Wild Bills for a Run and/or Walk.... followed by a great social!  Wild Bills has $5 Burger Night on Mondays, and they are yummy!
Tuesday 6pm: TerraLoco is hosting Ladies Night!  It's bound to be fun!  The first 100 women to arrive receive a gift bag!
Tuesday 6:15pm:  The Trail Crew is heading to White Water State park for an evening of Snow, Slush, Mud!  Bring your running shoes.. as it's unlikely to be a snowshoe event.  Meet at the Nature Store parking lot, and plan on a social at Mauer Bros! - Always fun!
Wednesday 6pm:  Progressive Run from Broadway Pizza! This location is a very good one for the workout as it allows us to get off icey paths/sidewalks and onto a more private roadway.   We'll run from Broadway to the IBM Perimeter Road.. approx 1/2 mile to get there.. then 2.5 miles around!  Consider 2-to-3 loops of progressing faster each mile!
Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. is heading to Billotti's Pub and Grill!  It's a new location, formerly known as Beer Bellyz and/or Players located at 821 Civic Center Drive...   We'll play frogger across Civic Center Drive and then run and/or walk the trails along the creek!   - We will plan on a social as well.   Tonight a few of us met the owners of the restaurant, and they're excited to host!

See you soon!

• Tonight (Thursday) -  We're at the Bears Den at 6pm!  Come out and enjoy the evening with some Fitness & Fun!   3, 4 or 6 miles routes... (of course you can always change it up yourself). and back for the social!  
• Saturday 6:15am - A group is pre-loading mileage from the RAC.  Saturday's long run is roughly 12 miles... so if you want more, join the 6:15am pre-load group!
• Saturday 7:15am - The long run gathers at the RAC... last week a lot of people were standing in the walkway during the route talk, so if we can, please move out of the walkway so people trying to check in for the RAC can pass through more easily.   -- This weeks long run is scheduled for 12 miles.. I suspect the half marathon distance will be roughly 6 miles.   
• We are trying to communicate post long run gatherings.  This week we plan to head to Brothers Bar & Grill post long run for breakfast, coffee and social...  please join us!
• Sunday 8am - Off Season Striders are meeting at Dunn Bros South  
• **NOTE** Dun Bros SOUTH!  This location is near TJ Maxx so not the Dunn Bros we typically meet at. 

Wednesday Progressive Run - Cancelled.

Tonight's (Wednesday) Progressive Run previously scheduled from Broadway Pizza has been cancelled.  If someone messages and let's me know they will for sure be there, and are able to lead the workout, I will re-post, but for now, consider the workout cancelled. Sorry for the late notice!

Miles... Celebrations... and Memories

Team R.E.D. members have been in so many places this weekend it's amazing!

They were seen logging miles at the Marathon & Half Marathon Training run on Saturday. Despite below zero windchills many members logged 20+ miles outside on Saturday!  Whiles others put in 7-13!   Others yet found themselves tucking to the indoor track, and getting it done.  All very impressive!

On Saturday afternoon, many members celebrated with Roger & Joyce! What a great thing to celebrate... life!  We often miss that opportunity, but this day, we celebrated and it was awesome!  We're grateful that Roger & Joyce are part of our lives, yesterday, today and into the future!

Our Hosts Joyce & Roger

Roger serenaded with an original song by Lorelei! 

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About 20 members joined the crew at the Off Season Striders run this morning, logging a variety of distances at a variety of paces.  Super fun to enjoy the morning with this group while meeting and getting to know new people!

Following the OSS run, Tom Woo was presented his Rochester Track Club Runner of the Year jacket, and I was honored to be asked to present it.  There is a lot of cross over between Rochester Track Club and Team R.E.D.  -----  Team R.E.D. members have earned the honor of Runner of the Year three of the last four years!

Tom is an inspiration to many of us as his results are clear for all to see through his dedication to the sport of running.  As a veteran, and talented runner at every distance from the 1 Mile to 5K, Half Marathon and Full, Tom demonstrates what it takes to succeed.  We're all proud to call Tom Woo our friend, and to know he can mentor us all to be better runners, and strong, positive people.  Congrats Tom!

Tom O' presents the Runner of the Year jacket to Tom Woo!  

As many of you may already know, Tom and family suffered a loss this past week as his mother, Wai-Jant passed away peacefully.  She lived a rich life of 100 years, many of those spent in the home of Tom & Shirley, along with her grandchildren Richard and Alex.  Our thoughts and prayers go to the entire Woo family.

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Today, the snowshoe crew got a sampling of Oxbow Park.  Here's a shot of the ladies relaxing while I'm sure the men were doing the heavy lifting. Let's get some snow for a few more trips this season! 

Mary, Cathy and Wendy... enjoying the sunshine at Oxbow Park!

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The Chmielewki's are celebrating today as they have a new grandchild in their lives!  It's so awesome to see the happiness that brings!  Congrats to the Chms!  Sorry I don't have any baby pics to share yet, but it's hard to believe these two lookers are grandparents twice over!

Paul & Annette