Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club The Trotter

www.ArlingtonTrotters.com Chronicles November 2008

Dedicated to Runners of All Levels Hello from Regina! In This Issue Just a quick note to let you all know how getting married to honored I am to assume the newsletter a Trotter (Dick, aka duties for the Trotters. Leah has done a Skippii Brown), it magnificent job making this publication has been difficult Club News/Mr. 50 2 aesthetically compelling with relevant to make the drive content. As I am an “apprentice” in the to Arlington Alerts and Dates 3 world of graphic design, I feel especially Heights. I have not blessed to learn from the best! given up running, Race Results 6 just running closer The Dork Side 7 All of the contributors are fantastic with to home and ven- their writing skills and timely submis- Board Minutes 8 turing in to the sions, which is a VERY BIG deal to an ed- world of triathlons. The Glacial 50 9 itor. Michael Zielinski made me feel so I’m looking for- welcome when he offered to do his article .A Madison Marathon 11 ward to “changing on races in Madison, Wisconsin, my up“ my routine and running on some home town! Sundays with the Trotters in Barrington. I want to keep up with the latest and great- Although I am new to the Editor position, est with the group so that I can put in I am not new to the Trotters. I can re- meaningful content in the newsletter, as member the day (more than 13 years ago) well as “fit in my pants”. that I found out about the Trotters while reading an article in the Chicago Tribune. It is important to me to fill the “very big I can remember the day that I called shoes” that Leah has left and continue to George Watson to clarify directions to make this newsletter interesting to all. “hook up” at Busse Woods. And I will al- Please let me know what you would like ways remember and treasure all of the to see. Articles and pictures are always Tuesdays, Saturdays, dinners and races welcome! Just make sure to send them to spent with the Trotters. me by the 25th of the month preceding the month of publication. E-mail: Since moving to Lake Barrington after [email protected]

Why is there a picture of the Capitol of Wisconsin? Read Michael Zielinski’s article to get the details on 5 great race options in Madison, Wisconsin this spring! The Trotter Chronicles - November 2008

October 12, 2008 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Trotter Board President: Ed Nikowitz 847/668-5527 Thank You from Trisha Dean! [email protected]

Vice Presidents: Thanks so much to all who volunteered at Dave Wurster, Mary Beth Nowak for im- Steve Sawyer the Arlington Trotter Aid Station #4 at promptu harnessing of Gatorade workers, 847/394-9546 mile 6! After last year’s heat wave, the and all who jumped in to assist wherever [email protected] marathon organization put many plans in needed. And of course many thanks to all place, including almost double the water who mixed, poured, handed out water, Roger Thompson 847/397-5258 and Gatorade. Unbelievably, it was an- cleaned up, and did the myriad of duties runrog@wideope other eighty-degree plus day, but all of needed. We could not have done it with- west.com you more than came through with flying out you! colors. Treasurer: Mike Kendrick Thanks also to Carey Pinkowski and the 847/602-0591 In addition to all of the volunteers, I’d like whole Bank American Chicago Marathon hillrunner58@sbc to thank everyone who took on leadership Team who did a fabulous job in another global.net roles, including Peggy Corey (co-captain), year of hot conditions! Ken Scharmann, Mike Kendrik, Gordon Secretary: Lah, Marion Stawski, Roger Thompson, Mary Papreck Judi Miko, Mark Rouse, Teresa Rouse, 847/269-9098 [email protected]

Newsletter Editor: Regina Brown 847-304-9344 Mr. Fifty [email protected]

Track Director: Nick Nowicki Life is a journey made up of adventures. with them since April. I was hoping they nicknowicki7580@ This was a great one. Everyone made me would follow through, but was somewhat yahoo.com feel like a superstar which was very cool. unsure. So when we got to the expo I The cast of characters could compete with hurried over to the board that listed all the Web Master: any Hollywood blockbuster. Starring in entrants and their numbers. There I was Steve Breese this adventure were Erin, Carolyn, Mark, with the number 50. How cool! I picked 847/358-8722 Marlene and Deb. Costarring were Sawyer, up my packet and proceeded to show [email protected] Mary and Mary Ann. The sup- everyone my number. We spent 666666666666666 porting cast included some time walking around Veronica, Brian, Lisa, Trotter President, Ed the expo where the rest The Trotter Chronicles Jackie, Paul, Mike, Nikowitz, has completed a of the gang kept newsletter is e-mailed Amber and a cast marathon in each of the 50 states! telling everyone I was monthly. Articles written of thousands. Read on for the doing my 50th. by our members are They all came to Many congratula- welcome and are due on join me in Denver. details on his last state to com- tions. the 25th of the month plete the journey! preceeding the issue date. Saturday was spent After the expo, we headed E-mail your artiles to : doing normal prerace stuff. to a liquor store so Mark and I Regina Brown at Marlene, Carolyn, Mark, Erin and Deb could do some beerbo loading before the [email protected]. spent the day with me. I, of course, got to race. We met a local runner who was also call all the shots. After a quick lunch, we getting supplies to beerbo load. After headed over to the expo with much antici- chatting for a bit, it was back to the room pation. Months earlier I contacted the to start our beerbo loading. It felt like a race staff to see if I could get the number photo shoot or wedding. Everyone had to 50. They told me I could. I had no contact take a million pictures. I hope I get to see

continued on page 4 2 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club Runners Be Alert! Save the Dates! The Daily Herald just printed a scary story on 5 runners in There is a saying that Arlington Heights being assaulted by a man on a bike on goes “failing to plan is October 21, and 2, on September 19 near Thomas Street and like planning to fail. So Ridge Avenue. Check out the link to the complete story: here on some dates to get on your calendar for http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=246103&src=9. your social and running events that are “Trotter According to Trotter, Steve Sawyer, this man has been sighted Recommended”. on the north side of Arlington Heights. Victims have told police he is in his 20’s, thin build, between 5’6” and 5’10”, dark complexion, short dark hair, and several recalled a cast on his November 8 wrist. Anyone with information should contact Detective Joseph Pinello, of the Arlington Tyranena Beer Run in Heights Police Department at (847) 368-5356. WI http://www.tyra- As a reminder for safe running habits, the Daily Herald article listed the following that bear nena.com/beerrun/web repeating: site.htm contact Steve Sawyer if • Be aware of your surroundings and have a plan. Know what you will do if a interested in joing a dangerous situation comes up. group of Trotters. buzz- • Always trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. [email protected]

• Look confident. Offenders tend to choose victims who look like easy targets. November 9 • Walk with a friend or stay near a group of people. Westchester Veterun 5K • Always take a route you know best and stick to well lit, busy streets. http://www.westch- esterchamber.org • Avoid passing stationary cars with running engines and people sitting in parked cars. November 13 • Music headphones will prevent you from hearing trouble approaching. Trotter Monthly Meeting. Watch your • If a vehicle pulls up suddenly alongside you, turn and walk in the other e-mail for details direction. You can turn much faster than a vehicle. November 23 Ride N Tie, in Busse Woods You Don’t Want to Miss This Run! http://www.runner- shigh.biz/runner- shigh/events.aspx If you log on to any race listing, you will see you choose, paces vary and you will un- that there are a plethora of Turkey Trots all doubtedly find a group that meets your pace. November 27 thru the Thanksgiving weekend that may Depending on the weather, there can be any- Long Grove Holiday Run make it difficult to decide which option to where from 50-100 people that will run. The Check our the story at choose for T-day running plans. An alterna- best part of the run, is the impromptu tail- left tive to all of those 5K Turkey Trots may be gating in the parking lot after the run. So the Long Grove Village Tavern run. This has plan on making the Long Grove run part of December 7 been a Trotter tradition for decades. The Trot- your Thanksgiving Tradition. Don’t forget to Gilberts Cross Country ters and the Alpine Runners meet at the Vil- bring a treat to share! Challenge http://www.signmeup.c lage Tavern in Long Grove at 7:00 am on Address is below for the Long Grove Tavern om/61337 Thanksgiving morning for a challenging and a link below for the route. 10’ish mile run thru the very scenic neighbor- hoods of Long Grove. If you are not up for 135 Old Mchenry Rd December 13 10, there is always a group that will do 6. If Long Grove, IL 60047 Santa Run in AH. More you are not up for running at all, there is al- (847) 634-3117 details at the November meeting and on e-mail ways a group of walkers that will walk a va- http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=17 riety of distances. No matter which distance 8822

3 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club

Mr. Fifty (continued from page 2)

some of them. money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, by When the time came, we headed off to dinner. More coaching new runners and by being supportive of strug- beerbo loading for Mark and me. At dinner, I asked every- gling runners during a race. This is something I am very one to raise their glasses so I could propose a toast. I proud of. So it was important that I incorporate this into thanked Marlene for being so supportive, for allowing me my 50th state. I thought I had accomplished this by rais- to complete this journey. After dinner we spent some time ing money for the race. As of today, I have raised over looking for the number 50 at the local shops. I wanted to $2,100 for the Denver marathon and hope to raise more. put it on my back. No such luck. Carolyn found a bal- As the race started, Mark and I did our usual fist bump, loon with 50 on it, wished each other but the store ran out well and went on of helium. Just as our merry ways. I well. I wanted to feel started the race with special, but didn't the idea I would take want to be a constant a shot at breaking source of attention. four. Something I Finally we made it have never done, but back to the hotel. came close to in There was Sawyer sit- May with a 4:04. ting in the bar. One The weather was more round of beerbo perfect. My first loading was in order. mile was a comfort- The three idiots on able 9:10. The pace the trip had one more was perfect. Two beer before calling it and three were about a night. Steve had 9:15. Still good. It been leading the takesmeafewmiles costars and support- to warm up. Right ing cast on an adven- around three Erin ture of their own showed up. We had talked about her earlier in the day. From left to right, Mary Ann Zemla, Mark Rudnicki, Erin Mink Garvey, Ed Nikowitz, After topping off Mary Papreck and Carolyn Huber pacing me to break those carbs we 4 earlier, but not be- headed to bed. fore the race. There she was to help. 4 and 5 were 9:07s. We were actually on Our plan was for all of us to meet in the lobby of the hotel track. This was probably the last time I thought we would in the morning. Most of us made it. At 6:40, we headed make it. over to race grounds for the 7:00 start. We were only two blocks away from the start, so felt this was plenty of time. Although I felt good, we started running into hills. Add a Sawyer was apparently serious about not leaving the hotel potty break, and we hit the half at 2:02. Considering the until 6:50. We didn't see him before the race began. hills and altitude, this was a great time for me. But I would When we got to the race, we got split up as many people not break 4. I would finish at 4:10-4:15 if I kept it up. went to gear check and didn't make it back before the But like I said, my running was has never been always start. So it was just Erin, Carolyn, Mark and I. Carolyn about me. and Erin peeled off to their respective starting paces. Around 10 Erin started struggling. Erin is faster than I, Mark and I went by the 4:30 pace group. This is where we but not as experienced. This was her third marathon in were to meet some of the others, but it never happened. four weeks. The miles had taken their toll. Around 10, Those of you that know me well know that my running Erin started trailing me rather than running with me. She has never been only about myself. Although I have been was battling a hip flexor and foot injury. I had to decide diligent in achieving my personal goals, I have also used whether to stay with her or run my own race. A few of my running to help others. I do this through raising you will know the choice was easy. This actually added to the adventure. I could not have scripted it better myself. continued on page 5 4 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club

Mr. Fifty (continued from page 3)

Had I been on pace to break 4, I would have left her be- prised it took them that long. I told her it was about right. hind. Had we run in from there, we could still break 4:30. But The course was a loop, but it also had several out and by now, we were doing 15 minute miles. Our goal became backs. This allowed us all to see each other on the course. breaking 5. At one point or another, I saw everyone except Amber. At some point, we were only running the downhills. At 23, They had very visible pace groups which made it easy to we started discussing our finishing strategy. We would figure out where everyone was on the course. The first walk to 25 and run in from there. But at 24.5, we ap- person Erin and I saw was Sawyer around 4. He was al- proached a long downhill. So we pretty much ran in from ready struggling. He probably should not have started the there. We did the final mile in 9:05. race. But being the idiot that he is, he persevered. Shortly Approaching the finish, Marlene gave me a sash that said after, we saw Mary. We blew by her too. We were flying. "Ed 50th State Denver October 19 2008." I grabbed it from Around 10, we caught Mary Ann. She yelled out to every- her and put it on. Erin grabbed my hand so we could hold one that I was doing my 50th. When they didn't hands crossing the finish line. The an- cheer loud enough, she scolded them and nouncer announced that I was made them cheer again. We were ...a photographer from the finishing my 50th. The still clipping along at this point Denver post approached. He took many crowd cheered. A re- so went ahead of Mary Ann. porter from the Den- pictures of me getting my medal, walking through ver Post Since I had fundraised, I the finishing area and talking to everyone. He also asked was wearing my TNT sin- interviewed me glet. So was Erin. As a more questions. right after I result, we also had 75 crossed the TEAMmates on the I felt like a rock star. finish line be- course. Laurie in partic- fore I even ular kept leap frogging ...The next morning I was up early checking the Denver Post. had my medal. with us. The Denver There was no story or pictures. But it didn’t matter. I have Then hugs and chapter had 6 coaches on congratulations plenty of pictures and a great story. I am blessed to all around. Mary the course who checked on have such a great wife and friends who accom- us and ran with us at various and Mary Ann were points on the course. Rick checked panied me on this adventure. I had the waiting for us. Carolyn on us four times. time of my life. and Marlene joined. More hugs, kisses and congratulations. Throughout the day, Erin was telling everyone I Then a photographer from the Denver post was completing the 50 states. This is something I would approached. He took many pictures of me getting my not have done myself. medal, walking through the finishing area and talking to Somewhere after the half, one of us suggested we start everyone. He also asked more questions. I felt like a rock taking walking breaks. Erin suggested I run ahead. No star. way! We slowed down from 9 pluses to 12s to 15s. At 14, We waited for Mark by the food tent. Here we took a hun- the 4:15 pace group caught us. We ran with them until we dred more pictures. Eventually, one of the volunteers decided to take our next walk break. Then we let them go kicked us out and told us we had to go to the beer tent. ahead. Bummer! I guess it was time to start our recovery. We sat Eventually, we started walking more than running. But in the beer tent for about an hour chatting and drinking we were still keeping a pretty good pace. Erin was con- our recovery drink of choice. cerned that she was slowing me down, but I didn't care. Back to the hotel for a shower and some much needed Around 16, Mary caught us. She ran ahead then came rest. We turned on the Bears game to find them winning back to us. Then took off again. I could tell she was con- 48-31 early in the 4th quarter. Go Bears! After watching flicted. Shortly afterwards, Mary Ann caught us. She the rest of the game and taking a shower, I called around stayed with us until one of our walk breaks became too to see who was coming to dinner. Mary, Lisa and Amber long. had early evening flights. Veronica had dinner plans with Around 20, the 4:30 pace group caught us. Erin was sur- her sister who lived in Denver. The rest of us made plans

continued on page 8 5 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club Trotter Race Results November Monthly Dan Roder sets Goal Meeting to be an Overall Race Winner Long Grove Heritage 5K on September 6th Next November Jan Draheim (1st Age Grp.) 44:29 meeting is for his 50th Year and Thursday, No- Acheives it! Walter Payton 16,726-Yard Run on vember 13, September 13th 2008. Check Margie McGowan (4th Age Grp.) 1:31:58) Nancy Roder dutifully e-mailed the couples’ your e-mail in race results to the editor for November pub- Fall Festival 5k Run on September 20th the next com- lication. In her e-mail, she wrote, “Dan just Jan Draheim (2nd Age Grp.) 43:36 ing weeks for keeps getting faster and better! His goal details on the when he turned 50 was to win a race and he Midtown 5K Run & Walk on September 27th time and loca- accomplished that yesterday. I was so Steve Breese (2nd Overall) 17:28 tion. proud!!”. Dan was the overall winner for Cal’s All Star 5K on October 18th with a superfast Jan Draheim (6th Age Grp.) 42:50 Put Your time of 18:17, beating out all of the young- Montgomery Oktoberfest 5K on October 4th sters! Looking to put more in the newsletter, I Dan Roder (1st Age Grp.) 18:07 Name on replied to Nancy’s e-mail inquiring what Dan’s next big adventure would be. She Nancy Roder (2nd Age Grp.) 25:37 the Ballot wrote that Dan would like to run a sub 18:00 Trotter Board Member 5K. He is getting close to that goal with his Run for the Bear 10K on October 5th positions are available. 18:07 finish at the Montgomery Octoberfest Margie McGowan (1st Age Grp.) 56:59 Anyone interested in 5K just a few weeks ago. Perhaps we can get throwing their hat in Dan to share some of his “secrets to success” Chicago Marathon on October 12th the ring, please contact in upcoming publications. Steve Breese (65th Age Grp.) 2:54:14 Mary Papreck via e- Cal's All Star 5K on October 18th mail, [email protected]. Dan Roder (1st Overall) 18:17) Nancy Roder (9th Age Grp.) 25:43r In addition to the cur- rent Board positions, we Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K Run on are looking for two October 26th more people for Volun- Margie McGowan (1st Age Grp.) 26:48 teer Cordinator and Social Director. Sycamore Pumpkin 10k on October 26th Dan Roder (3rd in Age Grp.) 38:29 Nancy Roder (19th Age Grp.) 56:41

Dan Roder, holding the Overall Race Winner Trophy for the Cal’s All Star 5K (picture from Nancy’s cell phone!)

6 The Trotter Chronicles - November 2008 Tales from the Dork Side by Trisha Dean

Throwaways are getting a bad name. ahead! Since I had the Monday after the race off, I stopped at a UPS store, mailed it Throwaways, of course, refer to the sweat- the most expensive way, $8, and returned shirts, t-shirts, singlets, or garbage bags that the $2 change in the envelope. Had I not runners wear prior to or during the early had Monday off, it could have been weeks stages of a race to keep warm. Runners may before I got around to mailing it. wear throwaway sweatshirts before the race when it is 50 degrees and they are standing Only two days later, I received an e-mail around, waiting for the starting gun, and from David (I had written on the back of my then toss them right before the race when business card that we were the Arlington their body heat while running will keep Trotters), thanking me for returning his them plenty warm. lucky singlet. He lived in Minneapolis, and ran a 3:04. He also said it was his 3rd If you read the most recent issue of Runner’s Chicago. I wondered if this was some grand World, it was all about being green, from re- experiment. Did he run marathons in many cycling your shoes to participating in races cities, or maybe 50 states, and collect data that make a commitment to “going green.” as to how many people mailed back his sin- Trisha Dean has been an Certainly the Sierra Club would not endorse glet and hat? Arlington Trotter member having 45,000 runners shed plastic garbage since 1985 and has bags at the start of the Chicago Marathon, Then a week or so later, I receive a thank served as President, V.P, only to end up in gigantic runners’ landfill. you note and a $20 gift certificate to Barnes Social Director, Program (Though the last two years at Chicago, no and Noble from David the 3 hour Director, and Newsletter one even considered wearing a plastic marathoner. I wasn’t expecting this Editor. She has completed garbage bag to keep warm!) largesse just for mailing something he paid 30 marathons, including me to mail! A nice gesture This year, while working the but not necessary, I e- 6 Boston Marathons, and aid station at mile 6, I en- Throwaways are mailed back. over 100 triathlons. She countered a different type has also completed four of throw away. A man getting a bad name I, a child of Depres- Ice Age 50 Mile races. named David, who was sion era parents, often When she is not training, running a 3:00 pace, saw me wear throw aways, but quite Trisha is an assistant wearing my Captain vest and handed me his often never have the courage to really principal at Buffalo Grove hat and singlet, quickly telling me to mail throw my items away. This summer I did at High School and holds a them back to him, address and postage en- least three triathlons in which I retrieved my Ph.D. from Loyola closed. Wow, I thought at the time, that throwaway after the race to throw them University Chicago. must be some lucky hat and singlet, or a away again. One sweatshirt, with rips across guy who was really “green.” I would have the back, was once my favorite- a 1990 San worn some old singlet and thrown it away, Diego Marathon sweatshirt with a cool logo. saving me from a trip to Good Will. I still have it- next year I vow to really throw it away. In my PR marathon years Dutifully I put the then quite smelly gar- ago, I wore my throw away the whole race. mentsinmycar,whichwasparkednearby. It never really warmed up, and it became my Only after clean-up and I was driving a few “lucky shirt” for a period of time. I will people in my car did someone say, “What is confess I do actually throw away the plastic that smell?” “Some guy’s hat and singlet,” I garbage bags- landfill waiting to happen. said. So in your next race, try this experiment- Safely home, and a bit tired after my 3:30 put your name, address, and postage in a a.m. rising time that morning, I washed small plastic bag, and affix it to your throw both, finding David’s name, address, and away. Whoever gets it back is a winner! $10 for postage encased in a very small And if you do get it back, don’t forget to plastic bag. Whoa, this guy really planned send your Good Samaritan a gift card! F

7 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club

Arlington Trotters Board Meeting Minutes for Thursday, October 16, 2008 Welcome submitted by Mary Papreck New Members! Attendees: Steve Sawyer, Ed Nikowitz, Judi Miko, Roger Thompson, Mary Papreck We would like to extend 1. Message to get out at Thursday Meeting – Carey Pinkowski speaker. a warm welcome to the a. Local Running Club new members who have b. Where we run Tuesdays at Runner High N Tri; Saturdays at Busse Woods; Sundays rectly joined our club at Fisher Nut’s aka Home Economist and those who have re- c. Social Events – Beer Runs; Santa Runs; Winterfest Party newed their member- d. Charities – Christmas in April; Jelly Belly Days; Help at Races; Marathon; Angel ship. We hope to see Tree you on the running 2. New Board Members – solicit from audience at October 16th Meeting at Runner’s High N path or at one of our Tri. Election to take place at Winterfest Party in January. social gatherings very soon! 3. Awards – put together categories – nominate people. Member to e-mail their choices to Mary Papreck at [email protected]. Categories will be mentioned at November meeting. Mt. Prospect 4. CEDA – Angel tree. More info to follow in November. Angel tree is for our Members to buy Christmas gifts for children. Dave Poore 5. Santa Run – December 13th. Steve Sawyer will be Santa. Time and location will be an- nounced at November meeting and via e-mail. Rolling Meadows Sheryl Getzan 6. FYA Winter Runs- (freeze your ass) Deer Park bring your own beverage runs. Watch your e-mails for dates. To start after first of the year. 7. Steve Sawyer to contact Flash about trail run in November; Boot Camp speaker in January. Volunteers 8. Ride N Tie – November 23rd. Need 15 – 25 volunteers at Busse Woods for Mark at Runner’s High ‘N Tri. Contact Judy Miko via e-mail at [email protected]. Send e-mail to remind Needed everyone. Some people signed up to volunteer at October 16th meeting. Mark at Runner’s High “N Tri is hping to get 9. Winterfest Party – contact Ray for date – tentatively scheduled for January 17th same 15-25 volunteers for location. the November 23 Ride 10. Trotter wearables – See if anyone is interested in ordering clothing and what they would N Tie event to be held be interested in ordering. Roger to get information as to pricing and what is or will be at Busse Woods. Please available to order. contact Judy Miko via e-mail at 11. Next Trotter meeting – November 13th. Next Board meeting to be determined. [email protected] if you can help--or let her Mr. Fifty (continued from page 6) know on the run!. to meet at 5 in the hotel bar. shirt and a card which were both signed by Marlene and I wanted to walk the mall be- everyone. I was tired for some reason. I fore dinner so we headed outside. There we started fading fast. We headed back to the found Mary sitting in the sun. We said good hotel where I wasn’t even interested in one bye and went on our merry way. After more recovery drink. Up to the room and walking around for about an hour, we straight to bed. headed back to the hotel bar. There was The next morning I was up early checking most of the crew. Sawyer scored Marlene the Denver Post. There was no story or pic- and me a free beer. tures. But it didn’t matter. I have plenty of We headed to a local brew pub where we did pictures and a great story. I am blessed to some more recovery drinking and had din- have such a great wife and friends who ac- ner. I was presented with a 50 states finisher companied me on this adventure. I had the time of my life. F

8 The Trotter Chronicles - November 2008 The Glacial 50 by Dr. Nick Nowicki

“Only those who risk going too far can pos- wasn’t too hungry. sibly find out how far they can go.” -T.S. Eliot As I racked up the mileage the day grew warmer. I was noticing that my fluid supply The Glacial 50-mile Ultramarathon took was not lasting as long as in the early stages place in the northern unit of the Wisconsin of the race. At the fourth Aid station (20.5 Kettle Moraine State Forest. The course was miles), I still could not get any solid food in an out and back loop. The trail would be my system. I did manage to get a few gel best described as ankle-breaking; consisting packs down for some energy. of numerous rocks, hills, and steep up- hills/downhills. There were seven aide sta- I reached the turn-around point just under 5 tions on the course. Crewing was only hours. I thought it would be a good idea to allowed at these stations. take a break and put my legs up. The vol- unteers at all the aide stations were very This race was my first 50-mile ultrama- friendly and helpful. They asked me if I was rathon. As I look back on this experience, it doing alright. I told them I was fine and was the most physically and mentally chal- commented that it was really hot on the Dr. Nick Nowicki is the lenging race of my life (so far). course. One volunteer came back and threw Track Workout Director for some cold wet towels on my body, which the Arlington Trotters. He The race started at 6 AM in the streets of felt great. is a Chiropractic Physician Greenbush Wisconsin. All runners were re- and Certified Strength and quired to wear head-lamps because it was I stood up and began the second half of the Condidtioning Specialist pitch black outside. I entered the woods race. It was the hottest part of the day now that practices at First after running on the pavement for 2/3’s of a and the unseasonably warm weather was Health Associates, SC in mile. My head-lamp was excellent for see- sinking its teeth in me. The next ten miles Arlington Heights. Dr. ing 10-15 feet ahead of me, however, I could had some “good” and “bad” patches. I did Nick is a frequent newslet- barely see the ground directly in-front me manage to finally get some solid food (ba- ter contributor for injury (unless I ran with my head down). That first nana) into my system. But, the “bad” prevention tips and tales hour in the dark I was filled with anxiety patches seemed to appear more frequent and of his racing adventures. because I knew that if I sprained an ankle last longer. The wheels eventually fell off at Dr. Nowicki set forth a early, my day could be over. I did trip a few the sixth aide station (36.7 miles). times. On every occasion I caught my bal- goal of completing a 50- ance quickly and it felt like my body tem- I felt miserable. I was lying on the ground mile race in October 2008. perature dropped 2-3 degrees. and I could not move. My crew and the Read on for the details! volunteers rushed over to check on me. I exited the woods and was approaching the They threw some water, moist towels, and first aide station (7 miles). Everything ap- ice on me. It helped a little but I felt like I peared really bright with the sunshine. The was burning up. I would try to stand up, aide stations were loaded with water, onlytodropbackdowntomykneesbe- Gatorade, pop, candy, pretzels, nuts, and cause I felt dizzy and sick. There was little fruits. I drank some water, dropped off my shade at this station. An umbrella was head-lamp to my crew, and ventured back opened up to get me out of the sun. into the woods. I remember uttering the words that I never Around nine miles I made a quick pit stop. I thought I would say during a race, “I don’t thought this was a great sign because that think I can finish.” meant I was taking in an appropriate amount of fluid. I decided to have a granola My crew asked the race staff if it were bar that I had in my Camelbak. I started to “legal” for me to sit in a car with air condi- chew the bar, but for some reason I just tioning. We got the “green-light” and I could not swallow it. I thought maybe I crawled into the car. The air conditioning was turned up full blast as I sat there for a

continued on page 10 9 Newsletter of the Arlington Trotters Running Club

The Glacial 50 (continued from page 6)

while. Eventually, I started shivering and was off the ankle-breaking trail now and got out of the car. running through a grass field. I crossed a couple of make-shift bridges; basically two I started weighing my options. Quit now 2X4's placed side by side that stretched and all this misery will be over. Or suffer about 40 feet. I almost fell off the side of through these last 13.3 miles and get your these narrow “bridges” earlier that morning. finisher’s medal. I knew that I would for- ever regret not finishing the race. I threw I came up to a sign that said “Glacial Trial Running On on a fresh shirt, gathered my race supplies 50: One Mile Left.” It was almost over. I Come meet your fellow (camelback, extra water, and a couple of ba- started pumping my arms and legs through Trotters for a run this nanas), and started running. the forest. I was back on pavement with week! Runners of all ages 2/3's of a mile to go. My feet felt weird to and experience levels are The next six miles, I had the pleasure of be back on solid ground. I kept pushing. I welcome. running with a terrible side cramp. I just made the final turn and the finish line was could not get rid of it. The hills seemed to within sight. Sunday Morning Run - be getting taller and steeper. I could barely The Home Economist Run walk up them. I remember thinking that the I charged down the final straight away with meets at 7:00 a.m. at the course was 50 miles uphill both ways. what little energy I had left. I Fisher Nut Store parking When I got to the top of a hill, was determined to lot at the corner of North- I would have to walk the finish strong. I steep down-hills “Only those ran through west Highway and Hillside loaded with rocks the finish Road in Barrington. The and tree-roots. I line and distance is 10.6 miles and almost fell on my who risk going too far another the pace varies. butt a couple of 15 feet times. can possibly find out how where I Monday Evening Fun Run collapsed - 6:30 p.m. at the Dick I made it to the in a ditch Pond's Schaumburg, 927 S. last aide station (43 far they can go.” by the side Roselle Road. All levels miles). I was feeling of the road. welcome. “Party Night” on significantly better com- -T.S. Eliot The race lasted thirdMondayofthe pared to the last aide station. 11:36:26. month. I thought it was a good idea to take another break. The weather finally felt like The race director walked up and congratu- Tuesday Evening Fun Run it was cooling off. lated. He told me that everyone had trouble - 6:00 p.m. at the Runner's running in the heat. He asked me how High store, 121 W. Camp- I stood up and started running again. My many 50 milers had I completed. I told him bell in Arlington Heights. side cramp was gone, however, now I had that it was my first one. He shook my hand Runners of all levels are this sensation that my legs were on fire. and gave me my finisher’s medal. I placed invited to participate. The With about five miles left I took a very brief the medal around my neck and smile in- distance is about 5 miles. pit stop. With all the fluids that I was guz- stantly came across my face. zling, I could not believe that I had gone 8 Saturday Morning Run - ½ hours without using the bathroom. Special thanks go out to my race crew. I 7:00 a.m. at Busse Woods. would have never completed the race with- Meet at the entrance by It was getting noticeably dark outside. I out their support and quick thinking. F the elk pen (N.W. corner of Arlington Hts. Road and Higgins Road). This is a re- laxed pace run of about 8 milesfollowedbybreak- fast at the Rose Garden restaurant just across the street.

10 The Trotter Chronicles - November 2008 A Madison Marathon by Michael Zielinski

Madison is a 2 hour As the Wisconsin lowing the participants to watch themselves winter fades away ride from Chicago’s cross the 50 yard line upon completion of the into the rebirth of Crazylegs Classic. spring, the Madi- Northwest Suburbs! son, WI running The following Saturday on May 2nd is the season also returns 31st anniversary of Madison's Lake Monona with the long dis- 20K run. The start and finish is on the south tance highlight shore of Lake Monona at Winnquah Park in being the Madison Monona with a clockwise course around the Marathon sched- lake that includes winding residential streets uled for May 24, and paved bike paths close to the scenic 2009. During the shoreline. Along the way is the spectacular first full month of state capitol skyline as Lake Monona is spring in April, the crossed on the causeway just prior to the city hosts the Mid- halfway point in the run. About a mile fur- west Horse Fair one ther is the Monona Terrace Community and weekend before the Crazylegs Classic 8K and Convention Center, opened in 1997 from a two mile walk on April 25th, the same date Frank Lloyd Wright exterior design to house a that the Dane County Farmers' Market, the na- state-of-the-art building for exhibitions, cul- tion's largest producers' only market starts on tural events, meetings and other public gather- Michael Zielinski joined every Saturday up to early November. Both ings. Shortly after the 15K mark, the run route events take place on or near Capitol Square, descends into Olbrich Park, the home of the Ol- the Trotters in 2001. He is the area in downtown Madison at the Wiscon- brich Botanical Gardens and Conservatory. an average runner who has sin State Capitol. Once the 20K is completed, a good training run done marathons in 50 has been done in the preparation for the 37th The Crazylegs Classic is named after Elroy annual 20 mile Syttende Mai Run two weeks States and Washington "Crazylegs" Hirsch, a former University of Wis- later on May 16th. D.C. Compared to other consin football player and later Director of Arlington Trotters, he has Athletics who earned election to both the Col- The Syttende Mai Run is a 20 mile race from lege Football and Professional Football Hall of Madison's Capitol Square to Stoughton's never won a race, qualified Fame. Accolades of this run include the Road Mandt Park that also includes a non-competi- for the Boston Maratbon, Runners Club of America picking the Crazylegs tive 17 mile walk in the tradition of Europe's done an Ironman or run a Classic as one of twenty races across the coun- "volks marches" with much of the course on try chosen for "Great Races! Great Places!", rolling rural roads. The Norwegian heritage of 100 miler. He is a native Runner's World magazine rating the Crazylegs many of Stoughton's citizens is celebrated each of Mount Prospect, went to Classic as one of America's Best 100 Events, year as the town and thousands of guests ob- high school in Arlingotn and readers participating in the Capital serve Syttende Mai, Norwegian or "seventeen Times/Wisconsin State Journal Reader's Choice May", with the event held on the weekend Heights, is a graduate of Award survey have voted the Crazylegs Classic closest to May 17th. On that day in 1814, the the University of Illinois, the favorite local area running event every Norwegian Constitution was signed, giving and has done audits for year since 1995. Norway independence from its 500 year union with Denmark and the start of a new union over 25 years. The 28th running of the Crazylegs Classic on with Sweden that lasted until 1905. Since at April 25th is expected to have about 15,000 the time of this article, the world-class Univer- participants at the start on the Capitol Square sity of Wisconsin has had seventeen nobel lau- along with Bucky Badger, the University of reates affiliated with the university, (the same Wisconsin Cheerleaders and the Badger March- number as in May 17th), it can be pointed out ing Band. Campus celebrities aboard the Bucky that the Nobel Peace Prize is presented annu- Wagon greet the runners and walkers as they ally in Oslo, Norway, on December 10 (the an- arrive and the Wisconsin Governor is expected niversary of Alfred Nobel's death), while on the to participate, continuing the tradition of for- same date the Nobel Prizes in the specific dis- mer Governors. The 8K starts opposite the ciplines (Chemistry, Physics, Physiology or State Capitol Building and then goes down Medicine, and Literature) and the Prize in Eco- State Street to the University of Wisconsin be- nomics are presented in Stockholm, Sweden. fore heading along Observatory Drive by Lake Returning to athletics, the Madison Marathon Mendota to Picnic Point and then returning is scheduled for May 24, 2009 in the capital down University Avenue to Camp Randall Sta- city of Wisconsin. dium where it ends at the 50 yard line. The walkers circle Capitol Square and then con- The Madison Marathon starts at Capitol tinue down State Street to Henry Street on a Square just like the previously mentioned two-mile course to Camp Randall. Both the Crazylegs Classic and Syttende Mai runs. The runners and walkers finish on the 50 yard line Wisconsin State Capitol, located on the isth- of Camp Randall Stadium and are shown on mus between Lakes Mendota and Monona, is the video board as they enter the stadium, al- taller than the Nation's Capitol in Washington,

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A Madison Marathon (continued from page 8)

D.C. and at the top is the from Observatory "Wisconsin" statue Five Roadtrip Races for 2009 Drive to the Howard sculpted by Daniel Chester Temin Lakeshore Path. French. The statue is a Madison, WI Although it is tempt- lady wearing a helmet with ing to stop at the near the state animal, the • April 25, 2009: Crazy Legs 8K by Babcock Hall Dairy badger, on top while the (28th Year, 15,000 participants, Saturday Race Plant and Store for left hand holds a globe delicious university with an eagle on it and her www.crazylegsclassic.com) made ice cream, the right arm is outstretched to • May 2, 2009: Lake Monona 20K Run run is only halfway symbolize the state motto, ( 31st Year, Saturday Race over. At this point, "Forward." Prior to going the route turns south- forward, also on Capitol www.lakemonona20k.com) east from Lake Men- Square, is the Wisconsin • May 16, 2009: Syttende Mai 20 Mile Run dota and goes by the Historical Museum and the University of Wiscon- Wisconsin Veterans Mu- ( 37th Year, Saturday Race sin Hospital plus the seum (Veterans Day is on www.stoughtonwi.com/runwalk.shtml) agricultural and engi- November 11th). neering parts of the • May 24, 2009: Madison Marathon campus before going Over 5,000 participants are (5,000 participants, Sunday Race by Camp Randall Sta- expected on May 24th for dium prior to mile fif- the marathon,half www.madisonfestivals.com/marathon/index.html) teen. The next three marathon, quarter • September 13, 2009: Madison Ironman miles go to the south- marathon, and kids run. west before reaching The marathon course heads (It’s already full, Sunday Race Nakoma Golf Club and northeast from Capitol www.ironmanwisconsin.com) then entering the Uni- Square for the first mile versity of Wisconsin and then goes north for Arboretum at mile the next three miles up to nineteen for the next Warner Park before turning west for the next mile to arrive at two miles on the south shore of Lake Wingra. The Henry Vilas Lake Mendota. The route is then to the south and west near the Zoo is at mile twenty-two on the north shore of Lake Wingra be- lake up to the halfway point in the marathon. Along with way is fore the course heads east near the Kohl Center at mile twenty- the Maple Bluff Country Club between miles six and seven, the three. The next two miles are by Lake Monona prior to the finish Wisconsin Executive Residence (Governor's Mansion) at mile near the Dane County Fairgrounds at the Alliant Energy Center eight, and by mile twelve, the University of Wisconsin; estab- that includes the Exhibition Hall, Willow Island and Veterans lished in 1848 with the motto, "The divine within the universe, Memorial Coliseum. however manifested, is my light." The marathon journey to Madison is now complete unless one At the U of W, the route goes by the Memorial Union before fol- wants to do the Ironman Wisconsin Triathlon on September 13th lowing along Lake Mendota the UW Lakeshore Path parallel to that has a course of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bicycle ride, and Bascom Hill. Bascom Hall, named for John Bascom is an admin- then a 26.2 mile marathon. An easier autumn in Madison is the istrative university building located at the top of Bascom Hill October World Dairy Expo and the Wisconsin Book Festival. Is with a famous Abraham Lincoln statue situated in front. John there any doubt that Madison is one of the nation's highest rated Bascom was President of the University of Wisconsin from 1874 cities for overall quality of life and with the approach of Thanks- to 1887 and was the author of at least thirty books. He said in giving, the Abraham Lincoln statue in front of Bascom Hall is a his biography the books cost him more money than he ever re- reminder that in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln set aside the ceived from their publication but he added that he was glad to last Thursday of November as a national Day of Thanksgiving.F have written them and that he was only sorry that he could not have been of more service to his fellow men. Robert La Follette, Sr. while at the U of W was deeply influenced by John Bascom on issues of morality, ethics and social justice prior to becoming an American politician who served as a U.S. Congressman, the 20th Governor of Wisconsin (1901–1906), and Republican Senator from Wisconsin (1905–1925). A 1982 survey of historians that asked them to rank the "ten greatest Senators in the nation's history" based on "accomplishments in office" and "long range impact on American history," placed La Follette first and he has been called "arguably the most impor- tant and recognized leader of the opposition to the growing dominance of corporations over the Government"; a matter still applicable today. "The Wisconsin Idea" represents the state being served in the best possible way by the university. Returning to the marathon, (the marathon of life), the course continues along the Muir Woods stretch (in honor of U of W stu- dent John Muir who later became a famous environmentalist) Lake Monona Bike Path-popular for training and racing in Madison

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