Members Rockin'

Congratulations to Team R.E.D. members Jim & Angie!   They each completed the Goofy Challenge at the Disney Marathon (and a half!).     Jim's wife Brenda, also completed her first half marathon!  -- what a great way for a family to enjoy Disney!

Ang Representing R.E.D.!  Congrats!

I can only guess what Jim is looking at in this pic

Duaghter / Father.. proud moment!

The family that ices together...

The family... Congrats to Brenda on her first half!

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Off Season Striders on Sunday was a test!  The weather created a bit of an edge, but thank goodness the wind was down from last night.. what a howler that was!   Check out the shot of Kelle below... with those lashes she earned the nickname of Lady Gaga on today's run! 

14+ well earned miles!

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• Monday Maniacs at back at WildWood at 6pm on Monday!  - be sure to dress wisely and enjoy the miles with great friends!
• Tuesday Trail run is moving inside for a Movie Night... it's a trail running movie.. and appears to be a good one!  --  the host for Movie Night is Dan Lovik at 1504 7th St NE in Rochester.  If you'd like to participate drop Jim an email at jmason@greenway.coop  
• Wednesday Track is set for 5:30pm from the indoor track at RCTC. Come join the speed session! 
• Thursdays Team RED is dialed into Rochester this week... still pondering a couple locations. Check back for updates.

Fantastic Fun!

It was a fantastic Thursday Night Team R.E.D.!  We saw a couple new faces in Becky of Rochester and Frank of Byron.  Welcome to both of you!

We also have a new member... Meet Jenny!  ... and Jenny must have talked to Gwen for too long, as she has already signed up to run Tough Mudder with Team R.E.D.!

Welcome Jenny! 

Below is a peek at the Bears Den Gift Cards and Red Solo Cups (cups provided by the Mesenburgs.. Thanks!)    Congratulations to Adam, Mike, Jenny, Sarah, Jeremy, Lorelei and Andy!

Here's a slide show of the team running in the dark... as always, my photographic skills are superb!




Another sponsor has re-upped Thursday night!   ServiceMaster of Rochester is a great supporter of Team R.E.D.  With that, every sponsor has returned!  Thanks go to them all.. in no particular order... Thanks to Needs Car Wash, ServiceMaster, Bears Den, K&S Heating and Pro Image!  -- you can find links to each of our sponsors on the right hand side of the blog.

Next is a peek of what's shaping up over the next week or so... get out and have fun, the cold is on the way! -- hopefully with that cold we see some snow!

Saturday 7:30am:  The Off Season Striders step out from Brothers Bar & Grill.  You should park behind the bar to get connected with the group for the route talk. -- and then no one will talk about your early morning drinking habits!
Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders go again, this time from Dunn Bros North.   You can meet in the front of Dunn Bros.. no need to try and hide from the general public at this location.
Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs get it going from WildWood bar and grill located on the back side of the Ramada near the TJ Max Plaza.  Come for the run... stay for the fun!
Tuesday TBD:  It's sounding like a movie night!  The movie is The Mountain Runners and I've embedded the trailer below.   Jim says it's an interesting movie, especially if you like history.  It was an event that took place in 1911. 

Wednesday 5:30pm: The speed sessions continue at the indoor track of RCTC. Come on out, even if you can't get there right at 5:30, join while we're in progress. It's a great way to turn the feet fast!
Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. is in Rochester this week... location is still to be determined.

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Mark your calendars!     

January 27th at 8am is the Test The Lace Up Against Breast Cancer Half Marathon Route Run (TTLUABCHMRR).   Race Director John Shonyo will host a couple aid stations, and listen to your feedback regarding the route.   The run will start at the south parking lot of Mayo High School.

Lovin' the track!

I encourage more and more of us to get out to the Wednesday night track workouts!  Many of us are thinking about races, and there's one sure way to get faster.. it's by training faster!  

Track workouts are a way to get that speed rolling. Remember, you will run the workout at a speed that fits your current ability level... so don't be intimidated and come give it a shot.  Additionally, one of our newest members, Ryan, will lead the track runners to the nearest hydration location post workout!

The picture below is missing one participant, as Steve missed the photo shoot. 

Jim, Tom, Ryan, Emily, Ann & Gwen

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We are in Byron tonight.. see you at the Bears Den at 6pm!

Awesome Nights!

Monday Maniacs provided us with a great chance to get a talking tour of the Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center renovations that are taking place.  Dave is the constuction manager and he gave us some insight as to the vision of the renovation... very interesting and informative and fun!

Paul, Steve, Dan, John, Sara, Jenny, Ann, Wendy, Elaine, Aaron, Dave & Mike 

Dave on the rooftop giving details on the expansion project

Woo overtaking a runner on the indoor track (was too cold outside I guess)

Tuesday Trail run was also a hit. The trails at Root River Park provided some hills as a challenge, additionally, the snow, ice made things interesting!  

Tonight 5:30pm: Speed work at the indoor track of RCTC.  Check in with Woo and the crew to turn the legs rapidly!  Race season is approaching, nothing like some foot turnover to make you run fast!  

Thursday 6pm:  Head to the Bears Den in Byron!  Lots of giveawys, and a fun night on the streets.  3, 4 and 6 mile options!  

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Thanks to Kelle for finding a fun video of what it would be like if Men and Women switched roles in the workout room. Click the link for a quality 3 minutes of viewing.   http://greatist.com/fitness/men-women-switched-roles-gym-video/#

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There's still time to sign up for Tough Mudder!  You know you want to... come along and join the Team R.E.D. tough mudder team!  We have 10-11 people signed up so far.. follow this link https://register.toughmudder.com/register/groups/default.aspx?newgroup=true&event=14748  and register for the Saturday July 20th, join an existing team "team red" and the password is "running"

Price goes up Jan 25 so why not put this one on your things to accomplish in 2013.
This is a team event, we start and finish together, no individuals wanted. We need runners and lifters, shockers and soakers-  See the promo video below and let's do it!

Fitness & Fun!

There is a whole lot going on this week!   Be sure to check out the day by day lineup below.

• Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs are patrolling the downtown Rochester trails starting at Dooleys, and ending at... Dooleys!   Stop on out for a run or walk, and some social time!
• Tuesday 6pm:  The Tuesday night trail group is back to running (since it would appear snowshoeing is not a great option at this time).   The plan is to run roughly 4 miles on the mostly grassy trails of the Root River Park.   

  https://maps.google.com/maps?q=43.903489%2C-92.398131&hl=en&ll=43.903907%2C-92.398067&spn=0.00419%2C0.006899&num=1&t=h&z=17

• Wednesday 5:30pm:  Speed work at the indoor track of RCTC.   This track is Free to use, and open for walking and running on weekdays from 6am-8am and 5pm-10pm.  Those hours could vary if an event is being hosted at the fieldhouse.  
• Thursday 6pm:  It's the Bears Den in Byron!  We have $40 worth of gift cards to give away... so come prepared to have some fun. 

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If you're planning to run at the Lace Up Against Breast Cancer event on Feb 10th... go get registered!  Of course, if you're not running in it and would like to volunteer, please contact me at byron.teamred@gmail.com  Check out the message from the race orgnaizers.. Several great giveaways from TerraLoco!

• To encourage early registration we are giving away running gear (courtesy of Terraloco) every week starting January 13th and ending February 3rd. Weekly prizes include shoes, socks and other running goodies. And we will have a grand prize drawing on or about February 6th for two Garmin 10 GPS units.
  
  Anyone registering prior to February 4th will be entered into the weekly drawings and the grand prize drawing. (No purchase necessary, please go to www.luabc.org for contest rules).
  
  Winners must pick up their prizes at TerraLoco (1190 16th Street SW, Rochester). Mailing out prizes may be an option with Race Director approval (runluabc@gmail.com).

 

 

Rainy Night... Light Night

We had a very lightly attended, slightly rainy night at Team R.E.D. tonight... yet me managed to get some miles, and lots of smiles!   -- Last week's 'new girl' Jenny, brought along two new guys, John & Dan.. we hope to see them all back!

Additionally, we kicked off a 'chance to win' Brooks Pure Project shoes.... the shoes were donated by TerraLoco and we thank them!  

We'll hold a drawing for a winner at the Bears Den, on Thursday Feb 21st but you can start earning your entries now. 

How do you enter the drawing?  Let me count the ways.... you can run/walk/bike, socialize, donate, or volunteer or race! 

• Receive 1 entry each Thursday that you miss the run/walk/ride but join the team for the E.D. portion of the evening anyway. 
• Receive 2 entries each Thursday night that you run/walk/ride with Team R.E.D.
• Receive 2 entries and a Team R.E.D. bling headband or can coolie by donating $10 or more to the Youth Scholarship Fund
  
• Receive 5 entries by volunteering at the Team R.E.D. Waterstop or in any volunteer role at Lace Up Against Breast Cancer Half Marathon on Feb 10th. (please email me if you'd like to volunteer). Thanks for all you do!
  
• Receive 5 entries by registering to race any of the events at Lace Up Against Breast Cancer (please email me if you register).  

Good Luck everyone! 

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Here's a look at the next few days...

• Saturday 7:30am:  The Off Season Striders are gathering at Charlies Eatery & Pub (across from St Marys' and formerly named The Crown Restuarant).
• Sunday 8am:  The Off Season Striders are getting together again, at Panera South in Rochester. 
• Monday 6pm:  The Monday Maniacs get after it from Dooley's Pub in Rochester.

Take a look at this post.. what a doll!

Many of you have already had a chance to see Sara & Joe's new girl Emma, and of course she's always looking great!  Yet here is the first chance to capture her in this stunning outfit! We are so happy for the Ryan's...  it's way awesome!  

More news.. not as fun as Emma.. but news!

Congratulations are in order for several Team R.E.D. members as 6 members finished in the top 10 of the Polar Bear Predict Your Time 5K this past Saturday.  That's 6 award winners!

Congrats to Sarah, Emily, Braden, Deb, Lorelei, Tohnia .. oh, it was Tohnia's first 5K ever!

Also Congrats to Larry for being the 1st to cross the finish line!  (although that resulted in a DQ.. Sorry Larry!)

Another notable, Team R.E.D. issued an entry to the Byron Good Neighbor Days race to a 13 year old girl running at the prediction run.  She's a mayo runner, and very deserving.

Yet another notable note, Team R.E.D. gained a new member named Ryan, hopefully we can get a picture of him with shirt presentation soon.  Welcome Ryan!  

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Monday Maniacs and Sunday Snowshoe were both big hits, as usual!  See the pics below for Monday Maniacs... and watch for the next location to join the Fitness & Fun!
Now check the slideshow below for the fun at Snowshoe (we are really hoping for minimal melt, and some additional snow!) We had 5 new snow shoer's this past weekend... Welcome to Dave, Laurie, Penny, Bill and Michelle!

• Tuesday 6pm:  Essex park is the scene, snowshoes are the theme!  Come on out to hit the snowy trails of Essex Park in Rochester. We're gathering at the parking lot indicated with the green arrow at the following link   https://maps.google.com/maps?q=44.078059%2C-92.476154&hl=en&num=1&t=h&z=16
• Wednesday 5:30pm: With race season on the way, it's time to turn the legs over!  Gather at the indoor track at RCTC.  It's best to bring a dry pair of shoes, and change before using the track.
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. heads back to The Field House sports bar, located at 1625 South Broadway in Rochester (inside the Americas Best Value Inn).  

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News! News! News!

•  Volunteers needed for Feb 10th!:  Team R.E.D. is hosting a hopping waterstop at Lace Up Against Breast Cancer on Feb 10th.   We support the runners at the Gazebo behind Mayo Civic Center, which means we see them all 3 times!   We will have a theme, music, fire and undoubtedly beer! 
• Free Pair of Brooks Shoes!:  TerraLoco has generously donated a pair of Brooks Pure Project shoes to Team R.E.D.  We will hold a drawing, and there are a few ways you can get entered into the drawing so watch your email Tuesday evening for details on this.  
• Virtual Run for Fun and Fundraising:  The other thing in Tuesday's email will be details on Team R.E.D.'s next destination run for a cause.   It will be a fundraising opportunity, and participation is encouraged, but of course, voluntary!   The distance is about 1215 miles from the Bears Den in Byron... so I'm sure we can get there in a hurry!  
• Canadian Ragnar:  Reggie is looking for some more teammates for a Canadian Ragnar relay in June!  Many of you know Reggie, as he is often at the Saturday morning Marathon training runs from the RAC, and he served us up some hospitality at Lake Wobegone Marathon with an invite to his camper fridge, which had plenty of beer!      The Ragnar route starts in Toronto and ends at Niagra Falls, Fun!  http://www.ragnarrelay.com/race/ontario     If interested, you can contact Reggie at the following email address  roeltjen@fmwildblue.com 
• USA Track & Field:   Team R.E.D. has renewed our USATF membership. If you'd like to participate as a racer for Team R.E.D., you'll need to register yourself with USATF and attached yourself to Team R.E.D. (which is code 0435 and should not be confused with another club, Minnesota RED)..   You can register at http://usatfmn.org/membership (it's $30 for a 1 year membership, and discounts with extended years).  
• Why should I join USATF?  So you can compete as a Team RED runner at several events.  
• But I'm  not fast?   Don't be silly!  The more the merrier at these events!  The top five Team RED members will score points in the open division of each race (there are separate male and female divisions).  The top 3 over 40 score in the Masters and the top 3 over 50 in the Grand Masters.   
• What if I don't make many races?  It's all good... take in the ones that fit your schedule and skip the rest!  
• What races are included in the club circuit?   Probably the most anticipated race is the TC 10 mile, which is a lottery only entry for most people.  But if you are racing for Team RED you are guaranteed entry!  There are several fun races  of a variety of distances from the 1 mile to the Marathon!  List is below.
• Sunday March 24th Irish Run St. Paul 8k – St. Paul
  USATF Minnesota 8k Championship
  Saturday April 27th Get in Gear 10k - Minneapolis
  USATF Minnesota 10k Championship
  Thursday May 9th Medtronic TC 1 Mile - Minneapolis
  USATF Minnesota 1 Mile Championship
  Saturday May 11th New Prague Half Marathon – New Prague
  USATF Minnesota Half Marathon Championship
  Monday May 27th Brian Kraft Memorial 5k - Minneapolis
  Saturday June 22nd Grandma’s Marathon – Duluth
  USATF Minnesota Marathon Championship
  Wednesday July 17th Life Time Fitness Torchlight 5k - Minneapolis
  USATF Minnesota 5k Championship
  Sunday August 11th MDRA 15k - Edina
  USATF Minnesota 15k Championship
  Sunday September 8th MDRA City of Lakes 25k – Minneapolis
  USATF Minnesota 25k Championship
  Sunday October 6th Medtronic TC 10 Mile – Minneapolis
  USATF Minnesota 10 Mile Championship

Schedule of events... lots of them!

Hey!  It was a great night at the Bears Den on Thursday. We saw a couple new faces in Jenny and Sarah... and we saw a few people come back, maybe a New Years Resolution?! 

For some reason, I didn't get any pictures.. sorry about that.. !

• Saturday 10am:  Polar Bear Predict Your Time 5K.  This is a fun event in which you don't need to be the fastest, rather the person to most closely predict your finish time.  Swing out to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and join the fun!   Race day registration is available, and Fleece hat to each participant while supplies last. 
• Sunday 8am:  Off Season striders are rolling out of Dunn Bros.  This group typically goes anywhere from 5-10 miles and then settle in for a cup of joe post run.
• Sunday 12:30pm:   The snowshoe crew is meeting at the 1st bridge of Oxbow park for another adventure in the woods!  Last week the snow shoer's were out and about for 1 hr 45 min of fun!  Bring along a flask of some liquid warmth if you like, and join the fun!
• Don't have snowshoe's but want to try it out?  drop Tom an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com and he'll get you hooked up with a loaner pair.
• Monday 6pm:  The maniacs are heading to Dooley's and planning to utilize the clear downtown trails for a nice evening run, followed by some social time in the warmth of Dooleys!
• Tuesday 6pm:  The Tuesday trail crew is hitting a snowshoe route at Essex Park in Rochester.  Come on out and bring your headlamp! They'll be meeting at the parking lot indicated with the green arrow at the following link   https://maps.google.com/maps?q=44.078059%2C-92.476154&hl=en&num=1&t=h&z=16
• Wednesday 5:30pm:  Get your speed on at the RCTC indoor track.   I would expect all the bleachers to be removed by now and the track should be much more easy to navigate!
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. heads back to The Field House once again.  This time we'll go more directly onto the trail system and back for some good time, good times.

Two Quick Hits!

Running behind on updating the week due to some celebrations...  hope everyone enjoyed their time with family and friends! 

• Wednesday 5:30pm:  Speed work at the indoor track at RCTC.  Bring a dry pair of shoes to change into... and let it rip on the track!
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. is at the Bears Den in Byron.  Routes will be 3, 4 or 6 miles as is typical.  Come on out, bring some friends!

Welcome to the Post Season!

I know not all our members are Vikings fans.. but that is not my problem... yee haww!   Way to go Vikes... and let's go get the Packers again next week!

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Thursday night provided a fun night on the city trails of Rochester... see the pic below to show who actually got out for the run.. and know many more showed up for the E.D. portion of the evening.

The Field House Crew

On Sunday, the SnowShoe crew found themselves with a large group of 21... and fun was on the agenda!   The first shot shared below is from Paul T.   It's a great shot, but get's shrunk down on the blog space.   

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What's up next?

•  Monday 7:30am: The Off Season Striders (OSS) run from Chariles Pub and Eatery! - always fun with OSS. 
• Monday 7:30pm: Sonja & Scott are hosting a New Years Eve Party! You are all invited to their place at 5029 Nicklaus Dr. NW~Rochester. 
• Tuesday 8am: The Off Season Striders are Panera South at 8am. 
• Tuesday 6pm: The Trail Runners have scheduled a snow shoe event at Quarry Hill! 
• Meet at baseball fields on west side of Quarry hill park at 6:00PM. We'll go for a couple miles through the park and maybe warm up by a nice big bon fire at Dan Lovik's house

Skol Vikings!

It was a great Thursday night for a run from The Field House last night!  The snow was dropping lightly, wind was light.. and the trails were runnable, with only a few slick spots.

Now, we're heading into a big weekend...  Here's what's up...

• Saturday 7:30am:   Off Season Striders head out from Brothers Bar & Grill.   Expect somewhere from 6-10 miles for the day.  
• Sunday 8am:  Panera South for another run with the Off Season Striders.
• Sunday 12:30pm:   The Snow Shoe Crew is heading out from the 1st Bridge at Oxbow Park.  Last week the crew shoe'd for almost 2 hours!  Although it's been said they took plenty of breaks for refreshments. 
• Monday 7:30am:   Charlies Pub & Eatery (formerly Crown Restuarant)... for another fun run with Off Season Striders!
• Monday Night:   Scott & Sonja are hosting a Team RED New Years Eve party!  Details to follow.

Don't forget to register for the Polar Bear Predict Your Time 5K directed by Team R.E.D.' member Sonja ...       http://rochestertrackclub.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=28&ArticleID=205     Rochester Track Club members will be eligible for door prizes! 

  

Hope your Christmas was Merry!

Hopefully everyone is having a great Christmas season! 

• Tonight:  No official track workout this evening.  If you want to run at RCTC you probably can, but I would consider the bullet below.
• The Clash wrestling tournament is this coming weekend, so I would expect the track to be very difficult to manuever.  In the past, along with bleachers (which we experienced last week), a trailer has also been on the track.  It get's a bit mucky and difficult to manuever.  
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. gathers at the Field House   (formerly Ron's place), located at 1625 S Broadway -- inside the Americas Best Value Inn (formerly LaQuinta, and a few other names).
• The bar and grill area is quite large and we'll have nice access to trails if they are clear, otherwise we'll head east on 16th street toward Mayo High.   You can expect routes in the 3, 4 and 6 mile ranges.

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Spring Marathon Price hikes!   I know members are considering the following marathons (and I'm sure more marathons, but these I know about! )  If you're ready to commit you may want to register now, as they all have price increases looming at year end.

• Med City Marathon May 26th:  The hometown show has a price increase on Jan. 1st.  To register now click the running room link http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=8427  
• Keep in mind, Team R.E.D. is planning the post race party.  If you'd like to be involved in the planning, or would like to volunteer on race day, please drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com
• Lake Wobegone Trail Marathon May 11th:  The race director has sent an email reminder, the early entry rate ends on Dec 31st!  Get after it!  Registration and race information can be found here http://www.lakewobegontrailmarathon.org/registration.html
• Green Bay Marathon May 19th:  The race to Lambeau Field has a price hike coming Jan 10th.  If you are ready to commit, save yourself a few bucks by registering at http://www.cellcomgreenbaymarathon.com/category/registration
• Tough Mudder July 20th:  Tod has created a Team RED team, so if you register, select that and enter password "running" and you'll be assigned the same wave as other RED members.   Entry fees increase after Jan 24th.  http://toughmudder.com/events/minnesota-sat-jul-20-sun-jul-21-2013/  Get registered and become a Tough Mudder!  (I registered today! yippee!)
•  

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Reminder the Bear Creek Predict your time 5 mile is set for January 5th. This is a fun race, where you predict your finish time, and the person closest to it (without running faster then the prediction) wins!  So it doesn't matter how fast you are, just how accurate you are!     --- If you run faster then prediction, you are Disqualified! ---

• You can register at www.rochestertrackclub.com

Enjoy the time with your friends and family!

With Christmas now here, and the New Year near... I thought we'd do some Catching up with some of what's been going on these past few days... it's been a busy few days!

The Annual Christmas Season run from Charlies was a hit!  Many thanks to Randy and Jean for pulling this together!  Also, thanks to Charlie and his crew for handling such a full house!  I think the final attendance was 50 runners/walkers... sweet!




During the Saturday run we welcomed TWO New Members! We love new members! Welcome to Tohnia and Braden!   Tohnia is the sister of current member, Heidi... and Braden is the husband of future member Danielle, and brother of future member Evan!   Welcome!

Braden Joins Team R.E.D.!

 

Tohnia Joins Team R.E.D.!

The weekend continued along with the fun as the Snowshoe Crew hit Oxbow Park for some off road time!   The snow was pretty good, although we could use more... none the less, a great first time out, with a great group of people! 

You do not need to be a member of Team R.E.D. to snowshoe with the crew... just watch for where and when, and come join in!  If you don't have snowshoes, but want to try, drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com and we'll find you a loaner pair!

Stopping for a sip of warmth

Ann working the hill...

Christmas Even morning brought another group run about!  The Mesenburgs hosted a breakfast pot-luck and Run/Walk Monday morning.  It was another great opportunity to spend some time together, and stay healthy!

Christmas Eve Morning Crew

Streets of Byron

Continuation!

It was a great morning for a run from Charlies Pub & Eatery this morning... wonderful turnout, and lots of smiles!

•  Sunday 8am:  The Off Season Striders are running from Dunn Bros. on Elton Hills in Rochester.  The group always settles in for some chatter post run.
  
• Sunday 3:30pm  Join us for a snowshoe romp at Oxbow Park.  We'll gather at the 1st bridge (which is the 2nd parking lot on your left as you enter the park).  You might want to consider a headlamp in case we're still in the woods as the sun decides to set!
• Monday Christmas Eve 7am:   Group run, walk and fun from the Mesenurgs home at 1098 8th Ave NW in Byron.  Various route options of multiple distances available.  Bring a dish to pass for breakfast after the run... our hosts are providing Gluehwein ... yum!

Fun Caroling!

Nice work Team R.E.D.  --- the caroling was a success, we created a lot of smiles at places such as Kathy's Pub, North Star, CJ's, Chesters, Tap House and Dooleys!   We also met some very interesting people, one of whom spent the night in the county lock-up.

Additionally, we've had some chatter about the End of the World based on the Mayan Calendar.. but Don G found some evidence that we may be ok. 

• Tonight 5:30pm:  Speed work at the RCTC indoor track!  Come on out and let it rip!
• Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. at the Bears Den in Byron.  Regardless of what the cookie suggests, they Mayan calendar suggests the world is coming to an end, so you may as well party it up Thursday! Be sure to dress appropriately. 
• Saturday 7am:  Run from Charlies Pub & Eatery.   The breakfast is sold out (as we've reached capacity inside the restuarant, however, you can still run with us!)
• Sunday TBD:   Snowshoe?!  Hopefully the weatherman is right and we get a good coverage of snow!
• Monday Christmas Eve 7am:   Group run, walk and fun from the Mesenurgs home at 1098 8th Ave NW in Byron.  Various route options of multiple distances available.  Bring a dish to pass for breakfast after the run... our hosts are providing Gluehwein ... yum!

Spreading Cheer!

It's time to spread some Team R.E.D. Cheer!  -- we will meet at Dooley's at 6pm Tuesday, and head out for an interrupted run of sorts, but for all the right reasons.

We'll run, mostly around downtown... and sing along the way, as well as stopping for a song or two at a few downtown bars.   The route is informal, and subject to change, but we're looking at swinging into, The Loop, CJ's, Kathy's Pub, The Tap House and Dooleys (we will start and finish at Dooley's).

It doesn't matter how well you sing.. it really doesn't.. come for the fun, I promise you will make people smile!

The evening will capture about 5 miles of running.. but if you don't want to run, join us anyway!  You can take short cuts to each place, as the runners get the mile in!   Be festive and ready for fun!

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This Saturday's Christmas Season Run/Walk & Breakfast

from Charlies Pub & Eatery is now full! 

• For those of you who signed up, Congrats!   Look forward to joining you this Saturday for the festivities!   Note: You should have received an email from Randy, giving you the details.   

Celebrations!

What a fun time at Annette's 50th Birthday party... 50 has nothing on Annette!  Keep on rockin'!

Annette as Ambassador.. welcoming Rick to the Team!

Here she is pole vaulting.. what are you thinking?

... and Shot Put!

Now, we get to celebrate another member's birthday, as Mia turns 21!  Join her Sunday Dec 16th at the Bears Den anytime after 12-noon ... We all know Mia is awesome!

Always with a smile!

Here she slums with Todd & Adam...

If you want to get a little exercise in prior to hitting up Mia's party, come out to the 2nd Bridge at Oxbow park and we'll take about a 45-60 minute hike starting at 10:30am.

********** Week Ahead! **************

• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders gather at Panera South for a run, and circle back for coffee and chatter. 
• Sunday 10:30am:   Hike at Oxbow Park.   Meet at the 2nd bridge parking lot... you find that by heading toward the zoo, then turning left just before reaching the zoo lot.. and drive straight ahead (past the campground) and park at 2nd bridge. 
• Sunday 12-noon:  Bears Den for Mia's 21st Birthday Party! 
• Monday 6pm:  Monday Maniacs are back at WildWood Bar & Grill.  This location always works out great, giving easy access to area trails and city streets.  
• Tuesday 6pm:  Typically reserved for trail running, this Tuesday is a special one... we'll connect at Dooley's and set off caroling on the run, as we'll head from bar to bar downtown, singing songs, spreading cheer!  We'll head back to Dooley's about 7pm or so.. to have our own share of cheer! 
• If you want proof that you don't have to be an American Idol contestant to join us, follow the link below to go back and visit this team red post which includes a little video / audio  http://byronteamred.blogspot.com/2010/12/caroling-was-interesting.html  I will provide some cheat sheets with lyrics!
• Wednesday 5:30pm:  We're back on the track!  Join us at RCTC indoor track, and get some speed under those feet!  - If you're not familiar with what to do on a track, we will talk it over after a warmup and then off we go! 

Last week's track crew! Small but strong!

• Thursday 6pm:  It's Team R.E.D. at the Bears Den in Byron!  It's an end of the world as we know it party!  We're going to party like there's no to-mayan! 
• Saturday 7am:  It's the joint Off Season Striders and Team R.E.D. Christmas Breakfast run!  We'll meet at Charlies Pub & Eatery (formerly The Crown)... head out for a run, and back for breakfast! Charlie is always a great host!
• Be sure to dress festively! 

Monday & a couple 'wait and see's"

Monday Maniacs is back at WildWood Bar & Grill in Rochester this week!  Come on out at 6pm for a run through the city.. and back for a beverage of choice.

Check back Saturday for details on a possible hike at Oxbow on Sunday (prior to the Mia Birthday Party at the Bears Den!)..

Also, check back Saturday for details on Tuesdays, caroling on the Run.. as we'll meet in Rochester and run Bar to Bar spreading Christmas Cheer before settling in for some Christmas Cheer of our own!

Beetles Bar & Grill

Tonight's gonna be a good night!   Gather at 6pm at Beetles Bar & Grill located at the corner of 2nd St SW and 20th Ave in Rochester.  

This puts us in a different section of town from the usual, so it'll be nice to trounce around a new neighborhood!

Tuesday.. Wednesday... Thursday!

What a night at Monday Maniacs!  It was super fun to hit the Douglas Saloon once again, and the host bar came through with great food and excellent service!  - We also received a wonderful gift for Team R.E.D. from Annette - I will get a picture and description on the blog this evening.

Here's a look at some more great opportunities over the next few days..   

Tonight 6pm:  Trail run at Essex Park in Rochester. See details from Mason below.   (note, several of us ran on the douglas trail last night, and while there is snow, it was definetly run-able.).

• We'll meet in the parking lot at Essex park and deal with whatever mother nature deals to us. We started our season at Essex and maybe this will be our last run on the trails before transitioning to Snow shoeing

Wednesday 5:30pm:  Woo says get ready to get Footloose!  We're hitting the indoor track at RCTC.  It's free of charge and available all weekday mornings 6-8am... and evenings 5-10pm.  

Thursday 6pm:  Team R.E.D. hits Beetles Bar & Grill on 2nd St SW in Rochester.  Routes will hit the blog this evening. 

Friday 7pm:  Annette turns 50 years old, and you are invited to the party!  Gather at the Chms' home at 507 9th St NW in Byron, and stay until your hearts content!  - No gifts please.

Sunday Noon:  Mia tunrs 21 years old, and you are invited to the party!  Gather at the Bears Den in Byron for all the fun.. and stay until your hearts content!   - Keep an eye open, as we might plan a hike or snowshoe late Sunday morning.  

Be sure to scroll down to the Friday Dec 7th post to see what additional fun is ahead regarding parties and special running opportunities.  We'll also plan a spring fling once we get past the Christmas season.

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Old race New date!  Check out the details for a Jan 5th Predict your time run.  It's fun, it really is!

Bear Creek 5 Predict Your Time Run Information

 

This race attempts to equalize all runners by staggering start times according to predicted finish times. You will predict the time you think it will take you to run 3.1 miles to the nearest 30 seconds.  The course is  a snowy, slippery route that follows the road and bike path. You are responsible for your safe speed and footing.  Hey, it is January in Minnesota!! 

 At 10:00 AM the slowest predicted time runners will start.  Every 30 seconds after that, another group will take off according to their respective predicted times.  The winner is the first person to cross the finish line.  EXCEPTION: anyone faster than his or her predicted time is disqualified!  Needless to say, no splits will be given and no watches will be allowed (an automatic DQ).

 

Date:  January 5, 2013

Place:  Gloria Dei Lutheran Church

            1212 12^th Avenue N.W.

             Rochester, MN  55901

Time: Registration starts at 9:15 AM

          First runners off at 10:00 AM

Cost: $15 regardless of when you register ($10 for RTC members)

Give Away: Fleece Hat(guaranteed for pre-registered, but first come/first served on race day)

 

Registration: Go to www.rochestertrackclub.com

 

Questions? Contact me at ziehen2@charter.net or call 993-3505.

Let it snow!

Tonight at 6pm the Monday Maniacs gather at the parking lot along the Douglas trail, in Douglas.  Some are planning to run, walk or snowshoe! 

Important Update:  Please see message from Chris below regarding the previously planned Crepe's & Galette:

• Major Bummer!! We are not going to get the Crepe and Galette Dinner we were all hoping for. When I spoke to the owner last week I did not understand (a small language barrier) that they needed another confirmation on Saturday!! We can still run/walk/snow shoe and go to the Douglas Saloon for refreshments and their normal food. Please help me spread the word to anyone only coming for the promised food!!
• Post excercise we'll gather at the Douglas Saloon for some tasty treats of Crepe's and Galette!  French dining at it's finest!   -- even if you can't join us at 6pm... swing on out to Douglas around 7pm and join us for the fun!

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The 6^th annual Lace Up Against Breast Cancer ½ marathon, 5k, and 2 mile walk is coming up on Sunday, February 10, 2013. .. and this is a call for Volunteers!   

Please email me at byron.teamred@gmail.com if you're interested in being part of the Team R.E.D. waterstop.   We'll once again be at the Gazebo behind Mayo Civic Center, which means we'll see runners 3 times!   A team R.E.D. waterstop is always fun!

Please e-mail Laura at lenz.rowekamp@usfamily.net if you are interested in volunteering in a role beyond Team R.E.D.'s waterstop. . You can also let her know if you have a preference on the job you do and/or the time frames you are available.   Below are the areas that they need volunteer coverage:

Saturday, Feb 9:

• Registration and packet pick up 1-5 at TerraLoco

Sunday, Feb. 10:

• Set up inside and outside: 7-9
• Race day Registration: 7:30-9
• Course Marshals (time will vary depending on where your post is)
• Water stop volunteers (time will vary depending on where your post is)
• Finish line 9:30-12:30
• Food Area 9:30-1:00

To find more information on the event, please visit www.luabc.org

Nice !

With everybody busy this time of year, it's so fun to stop and enjoy each other! Below are a few pictures from Thursday night.. and following that is a look at a whole lot of stuff coming up!  Mark your calendars! (by the way, if I missed any upcoming events, send me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com   because that's a lot for me to remember, and I don't want to miss anything!0

One was late for the picture....

So Annette get's a close up!  -- Her Birthday is Friday the 14th!

KP's late too!  another close up...

Amy, Wendy and Mason kicking the pace

Doin' it right.. reflective with headlamps!

Lovin' Route 66 Marathon!

Elaine and Jim share a birthday... same day, same year, same hospital!   Maybe they were switched at birth!

No comment.

ahh.. and headstand crew!  ok ok.. making sense now!

Gift card 'winners!'

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Off Season Strider Notes:

• Saturday 7:30am:  Off Season Striders from Brothers Bar & Grill... gather in the back parking lot for the route talk, then enjoy the run, and come back for the social at the grill!
• Sunday 8am:  Off Season Striders head out from Panera South. Easy access to the trails and then back for some chatter!   

Monday Maniac Notes:

• Monday 6pm:   Dec 10th, the Maniacs are meeting at the parking lot in Douglas.  The lot is right along the Douglas trail.  It'll be an out and back route of any distance you care to run (wear a headlamp, it's dark on dat der trail!). 
• Then... head to the Douglas Saloon!   The fine owners are hosting a Team R.E.D. special Crepes night!  They'll serve food typically reserved for Thursdays, on a Monday, for us!  Come on out and enjoy!
• If you can't make the run.... come for the post run fun!   The folks at the Douglas Saloon have been great hosts for us over the past few visits.. very fun!

Tuesday Trail Notes:

•  Dec 11th, 6pm Mason has a trail run (or snowshoe if need be) planned for essex park on Tuesday evening. Here's his message.   We'll meet in the parking lot at Essex park and deal with whatever mother nature deals to us. We started our season at Essex and maybe this will be our last run on the trails before transitioning to Snow shoeing
• Dec 18th, 6pm we're planning on Christmas Caroling to the people who need us most.  We'll run from bar to bar sharing our gift of song....  our creed of last year, rings true yet this year... Drunks are people too! 

Wednesday Track Notes: 

• Dec 12th, 5:30pm:   The indoor track at RCTC will be hoppin' with Team R.E.D. and Mom's on the Run!  Come on out and crank some speed work... we had a nice turnout last week, and would love to see more R.E.D. members turning the feet on the track.
• Dec 19th 5:30pm:  Much the same!  Come on out.. and work the speed!   You can do any workout you like, but the group is primarily focused on 300 meters fast, followed by 100 meter recovery.. and repeat repeat repeat. 

Thursday Team R.E.D. Notes: 

• Dec 13th 6pm:   We'll have a Rochester location, still TBD.  Check back to learn the plan!
• Dec 20th 6pm:  We're at the Bears Den in Byron... and according to the Mayan Calendar, the world may be coming to an end!  So we'd like you to dress as you would, if it was your last day on earth.

Friday Night Party Night Notes:

•  Dec 14th 7pm:   Annette Chm turns 50 years old, and a bash is the plan!  The party is hosted at the Chms' home at 507 9th St NW in Byron.
• Dec 21st:   If the world is still spinning, and we're all aware of it, you are invited to the Hammers for a survival party!  More details to follow on this item!

Mia turns 21 Notes:

• Dec 16th 12-noon:   Our awesome friend from the Den, Mia is turning 21 years old!  We are all invited to join her in the celebration at the Bears Den beginning at 12-noon!  

Team R.E.D. & Off Season Striders Christmas Season Run Notes:

• Dec 22nd 7am:   The annual Christmas run is on! Charlies Pub & Eatery (formerly the Crown Restaurant is hosting us!).   
• Our hosts can serve 60 people in the restuarant... and we are currently at 49 "yes" responses to the evite.   If you're interested in joining, do not delay... as we want you to be with the crew!   
• If you did not receive the evite, it means you're not on either the Team R.E.D. or OSS distribution lists.  Drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com and we'll get you added to the distribution list.

Byron tonight! ... Rochester This Weekend! .... Douglas on Monday!

Another big Thursday is upon us!  Join us in at the Bears Den at 6pm for Team R.E.D. as we run or walk routes of 3, 4 or 6 miles.  

This week has been a big success with a great track workout last night, fantastic trail run on Tuesday and an excellent Monday Maniacs on Monday!   Keep it rolling!  

Off Season Striders this weekend

• 7:30am Saturday from Brothers Bar & Grill
• 8am Sunday from Panera South

Monday Maniacs have a real treat in store for us on Monday, Dec 10th.   We'll gather at the Douglas trail parking lot in Douglas at 6pm, and head out for a run or walk.  Upon return it's Crepe's & Galette!  See the note from Chris below:

• We are going to run the Douglas Trail then we are going to pig out on an amazing Crepe and Galette dinner at the Douglas Saloon. The owner of the Douglas Saloon has invited us to a Special Monday Night Feast. Word has it, this dinner is AMAZING! If anyone is interested in a fitness walk or run followed by some great food and fun. Tell your friends and have them tell their friends.

Keep your eyes open!

We're fast approaching the 3rd annual Christmas season run and Breakfast buffet on Saturday 12/22 at 7AM at Charlies Eatery and Pub. 

An evite is being prepared by Jean & Randy... The first 60 people to respond "YES" will be in. Last year we filled in less than a week.  

• NOTE:  If you're on the Team R.E.D. distribution list or the Off Season Striders list, you will receive the evite.  If you're not on either of those, drop me an email at byron.teamred@gmail.com and we'll get you added.  

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In the meantime... stop out to Gamehaven for a run in the dark tonight at 6pm!  Meet in the parking lot, and bring an headlamp!   If you dont' have a headlamp you might find yourself taking the route these people took!

Reminder - Monday Maniacs Location Change!

Hey all.. just a freindly reminder:  The Monday Maniacs are meeting at the Douglas Trail Parking lot in Douglas at 6pm.. They'll do an out and back on the trail and then hit up the Douglas Saloon for some recovery drink. 

The rest of the week's schedule is listed out in the post below....