california track & running news

VO

LUM

E 39

NU

MB

ER

2 $3.95

PRST STDU.S. Postage

PAID

Permit #50Fort Atkinson, WI

ct&rnCalifornia Track & Running News

Includes the Runner’s Schedule Calendar!

Victor Sailer/www.PhotoRun.NET

April–June 2013 ARIANA WASHINGTON (Long Beach Poly) is off to a great track & field season,

posting a 23.50 200m to finish 2nd at theNew Balance Indoor Nationals in

New York in early March.

q&A with coAch Jim Bush

spring shoe review

usAtF oFFiciAls: whAt they do & why you’re needed

Official Publication of the

California/Northern Nevada

Associations of USATF

www.caltrack.com

CTRN-APR-JUNE_2013--1_Layout 1 4/24/13 8:15 AM

Sponsored By ��One of the most unexpected running performances in 2012 featured Meb’s victory andnew PR at the Houston Trials on January 15, 2012, and his fourth place and fastest

American finish at the London Games on August 12, 2012. Meb is an elite runner who always races best under the most difficult conditions. Coached for 18 years by

Bob Larson, he finds strength in his ongoing relationships.

Meb forged a new partnership with the Skechers Performance Division as he was trainingfor the 2011 New York City Marathon. He worked with the footwear company’s designteam on the development of Skechers GOrun and leveraged his experience to fine tunethe design of Skechers GOrun 2. When I interviewed Meb in November 2011, he told methat after using Skechers GOrun he no longer had to wear orthotic inserts in his shoes —

something that amazed him.

Skechers asked Meb to answer a few of our training questions below. Check out what hehas to say and make sure you follow the Skechers Performance Division’s advice and giveSkechers GOrun 2 a try at your local running store to see how they work for you! Find a

dealer near you at: SkechersPerformance.com or roadrunnersports.com.

Meb earned a silver medal at the 2004 Athensgames and won the 2009 New York City Marathon.We caught up with him in early February, while hewas training for the 2013 Boston Marathon.

Q: Meb, you’re a top world-class marathoner,but while the vast majority of the runners inmost marathons take their running seriously,they’re not serious competitors for the podiumor anywhere near it. How should they train?

MEB: The first thing I’d say would be,“What race are you getting ready

for?” That’s what you shouldtrain for. That’s the reasonfor every workout. Now, ifyou’re running a half-marathon in a couple ofweeks, as part of yourpreparation for a fullmarathon, say, two months

from now, then your trainingfor the half is part of your

marathon training. Use it (the half) to experiment:for example going out at a hard pace and seeinghow long you can keep it up. Or see if you can runexactly even splits for the half, or even go for nega-tive splits. Learn what you can or can’t do. The pointis that every workout should have a purpose, evenif it’s just to recover from a hard workout the daybefore. Make a plan for each workout and eachrace. Then execute your plan.

Q: Any other advice?

MEB: Find somebody you can train with on a reg-ular basis – it can be an individual or a group. Hav-ing a training partner or partners makes it easier toget out the door on those days when you’d reallyrather not. And one more thing about the marathon.In the first half of the race, it’s better to be too slowthan too fast. That’s a luxury I don’t have; I have tostay with the leaders to have a chance to win therace. But you can – and should – run your ownrace. The race you’ve planned.

��

skechersperformance.comFacebook: SkechersPerformance

Twitter: @skechersGO

Engineered to promotea midfoot strike.

Traction control.Responsive feedback.

Proprietary lightweightinjection-molded midsole

Minimal heel lift keeps the foot in a nearly

neutral position.

6.6 ounces (Men’s size 9)5.2 ounces

(Women’s size 7)


in this issueApril–June 2013

Publisher’s Letter 6

Association NewsPacific 8Southern California 28San Diego/Imperial 30Central 30

Gear Spring Shoe Reviews 12

Hot Topic Become a USATF Official 20

Runner’s Schedule CalendarEvent Listings 10

California Track & Running News is a magazine for members of the California and N. Nevada associa tions of USATrack & Field. Contact your region regarding changes of address and missing issues.

Central California Association: [email protected] — www.central-california.usatf.orgPacific Association: 916.983.4715 — [email protected] — www.pausatf.orgSan Diego/Imperial Association: 619.275.6542 — [email protected] — www.sdusatf.orgSouthern California: 562.941.2621 — [email protected] — www.scausatf.org

With a total of 144 miles, Suzanna Bon(#100) finished second American and

5th overall at the World Champs inPoland. At the PA LDR Banquet, sheclaimed PA Ultrarunner of the Year

honors. Story on p. 25.

Mau

rizio

Cris

pi

� � �

Meb is an elite runner who a Coached for 18 years by

B

He worked with the footwear company’s design

t When I interviewed Meb in November 2011, he told me

t

Find ad

it can be an individual or a group. Hav-

i

� � � � �


6c

t&

rn

• A

pr

il–

Ju

ne

20

13

welcome Vol. 39, No. 2

April–June 2013

SHOOTING STAR MEDIA Group Publisher

Larry Eder

Group & Coordinating EditorChristine Johnson

[email protected]

[email protected]

CT&RNContributing Editors

Cregg Weinmann Apparel/Footwear Reviews

Dave Shrock Community Colleges

Mark Winitz Northern California

PhotographersVictor Sailer www.PhotoRun.net

Maurizio Crispi, Wayne Joness Bill Leung, Rebecca Trahan

Association ConsultantsJohn Mansoor Pacific

Lawrence Watson Central

Wayne Joness, Rebecca Trahan Southern

ProofreaderRed Ink Editorial Services

Madison, WI

Pre-Press/PrinterW. D. Hoard & Sons Co.

Fort Atkinson, WI

WebsiteChuck Bartlett

ADVERTISINGPublisherLarry Eder

Shooting Star Mediaph 608.239.3785fax 920.563.7298

[email protected]

Publisher’s RepresentativeDave Parham

ph [email protected]

Advertising Production ManagerAlex Larsen

www.caltrack.com

California Track & Running News (ISDN #1098-6472), incorporating Pacific Athlete, is theofficial publication for the four USA Track &Field associations in California and NorthernNevada. It is produced, published, and ownedby Shooting Star Me dia, P.O. Box 67, FortAtkinson, WI 53538. All ad materials and inser-tion orders should be sent to Shooting StarMedia at the above address.

Publisher assumes no liability for matterprinted. Publisher assumes no responsibilityor liability for content of paid advertising andreserves the right to reject paid advertising.Publisher expects that all claims by advertiserscan be substantiated and that all guaranteeswill be honored. Opinions expressed hereinare those of the authors and not necessarilythose of the Publisher.

Copyright © 2013 by Shooting Star Media.All Rights Reserved. No part of this publicationmay be repro duced in any form without priorwritten permission of the Publisher. CaliforniaTrack & Running News is solely owned byShooting Star Media.

Publisher recommends, as with all fitness andhealth issues, you consult with your physicianbefore instituting any changes in your fitnessprogram.

Let Us Hear From You!We welcome your suggestions, comments,and questions. Direct them to:

Christine Johnson, Group EditorShooting Star Media/[email protected]

Address Changes/Missing IssuesThird class mail is not forwarded. Contact yourlocal USATF association about addresschanges, duplicate mailings, or missing issues.See page 5 for contact information.

Member of:

On Mar. 12, my sophomore cross country coach, Jim Marheinecke,died in a small town in Missouri. Jim had coached me when I was afreshman and sophomore at DeSmet Jesuit High School in theearly 1970s in Creve Coeur, MO.

Jim encouraged the teenage boys under his care to trainhard, challenge their preconceived notions, and work together. Hedeveloped state champions at a school that, at the time, did nothave a track. He had a good sense of humor, joined us on trainingruns, and earned our respect. Jim ran 60–70 miles a week with thetop guys, but also would run with me on the mile loop that sur-rounded the school.

Why did Jim affect me and others so much? His quiet de-meanor translated, to me, as: “I respect you; respect yourself.”One day, when I was dejected about my training, he took me asideand told me to push on, assuring me that one day I would reach mygoals. He was right: I ran faster than I ever would have imagined.

Though I moved to California in 1974, we kept in contact,most recently speaking this winter about his battle with cancer.Besides my father, Jim was the man who taught me the most lifelessons.

Twenty one years ago at the St. Francis Invitational in Moun-tain View, I met his nephew, who’s now one of the track coachesat Serra High School. And so another generation of young athletesbenefits from the Marheinecke approach.

There are tremendous little miracles hap-pening every day in our sport. The men andwomen who coach high school, junior college,and college track athletes are doing somethingthat stands in contrast to pressures often en-countered in society today. Running—athlet-

ics—is about looking inside onesself, taking the time to developand challenge one’s limits, ethically. Great coaches know that.

I hope to see you at the Payton Jordan Invitational and atsome races this summer. In the meantime, take a few momentson your next run to consider the people who influenced you. Andperhaps even take the next step and thank them. It’s the rightthing to do.

California Track & Running News

www.caltrack.com

www.facebook.com/CaliforniaTrackRunningNews

Twitter handle: @caltrackrn

www.runblogrun.com

� � � ��

� � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � ��,%��A?<AB � � � � � � � � � � � �

� � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � �

� � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � ��

� � � �

� � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � �

� � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� �

� � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

� � � � � � � � � � � � �

Larr

y Eder

la

rry@

runnin

gnet

wor

k.co

m

CTRN-APR-JUNE_2013_Layout 1 4/24/13 1:55 PM

��%��""� �� $��&)#��$' &%*� '*�. ##��#��,�,*+�@?<@F4�A?@B� %��&*�&.4�,** �6��&�$�"��+��6�6�+��$4��%��+�#�+��$,*+��-�� +��)��%��*+�%��)�� *+�%��)�� +&'7B�2% *��+�+��$' &%*� '*��,%��A?<AB %� ��*� �& %�*4� �6� %� $&*+� �-�%+*4� .�9##� ��-�� +�)�� 6�6� �+�#�+�*��&$'�+ %�4��,+�* %��A?@@��&)#��$'*��&#��$��# *+*�)�� -��0�* %+&� +�� A?@B� �&)#�� $' &%*� '*4� +�� 6�6� . ##� ��-�� C� �+�#�+�*��&$'�+ %�� %�+�&*��-�%+*6��+��&)�*��,#�*��%��,'��+�*��&,+�+��6�6�+��$��+�+�� %�� 6��)%$&)��&,+�+��&)#��$' &%*� '*��+��

�� !�� $&%��,�� *��*�) �*�&��@C�$�!&)�+)��"�$��+*��)&$��0+&��'+�$��)�.��)��+�� *+�*+�)*�&��+��+)��"�3�2�#��&$'�+�6��.&&��+�&*��$��+ %�*�. ##�� %�+��6�6��%��0�AD4�+�� *��)�%��) / ��. ##��#��+��%��##9*�*#�%�� %��%��+�� ,$4�+��+� )��&��+�� $&%��,��$��+ %�*6��+,)��+�#�+�*��)��%�&&)��&)#��)��&)��&#��)��%%��,�)� %�+��'&#��-�,#+�=D6?A�$�+�)*4�@E<D6D>��%��A??C��#0$' ��&#��$��# *+��)�$0��) %�)6��&)�$&)�� %�&)$�+ &%4��*�.�##��*�+��)&��*+�*��,#�4�- * +��

�� *��&%�� $&%�� ,�� $��+ %�� %� +�� 6�6� *� +�� "��)��&%+� %��#�** �� &%� ,%�� @6�� $��+� �#*&� &1�)*� �) ��0� ��+� �+��0.�)�� #��&%��0�B@4�.��)��+��+� &' �%��)�+ &%�. ##��&#�� +*@?4???$�+) �#*��&)�+��&)#��$' &%*� '*8��$��+� *�%�$�� %��&%&)&��+��#�+��+�-��)��&%+� %�4�.�&��#��*��)&$�A???$�+&�@?4???$��%�.�*�&%��&��$�) ��%�),%% %�9*�$&*+��&#&)�,#��+�#�+�*6�� %��&,+�$&)��+��

�&##&.�+�� $&%��,��+��

Welcome to the IAAF News Page!Exclusively for the Running Network LLC

��!��!��&�� "�� !��)�"��#��"%� �+!��"�� "�!� ��!��"# ��$�!�"!��"�� !�

%�"�� !�� "")��""��" �%�"()��!�"��"��)�� )��#��*��"�� "��# �� "�� #��"��!��

�"��"��"�� "� �#��#"��#��#�'*

�� ...6),%% %�%�+.&)"6�&$ ��

��!�

�� '��"��#��* *��# �� !�� ""�) �*��)) ++� *� +��,))�%+��&)#�� )��&)��&#��)� %� +��@@?$��,)�#�*=@A6F?>��%��+��A?@A��#0$' ��@??$��&#��$��# *+6��- * +��. +�� $�%�� *��&��%�)��*��$� %��&##��+�+ &%4�� %��)#0��') #6�

�*��0&,%��+�#�+�� %��&)� �4��) �*�'#�0��&&+��##��%��*"�+��##4�,+��-�%+,�##0��&&*��+)��"�3�2�#�6�� *�2)*+�)��-�)�.�*�),%% %��(,�# �0 %��)��+�D?�0�)�*��%��#*&�+��AA?��+�+��)*��0��$�*6�:�)�%* /�*��&%�*� %�+��D?��%��#&*+� %�+��2%�#6��#*&�)�%�+��AA?� %��&,+�AD*��&%�*4;��)�$�$��)*6��BD7*��&%��B??$��,)�#��+ $��+,)%��+��*'&+# ��+�&%�� *�),%% %��%��)�� -��*��&#�)*� '��)&$��%%�**��6�

:�.�*��&��0�� %��%��)*&%� %��&##��6�� %��+�,��+�$��$,��&��.��+��"%&.��&,+�+��,)�#�*6��&##&.�� %��+&��&##��+�+ &%4.��%��#��+�+&��&��+��/�*��3�6;��%�)��*��$4��-&#,%+��)��&��+��/�*��3�4� *��)) ++9*��,))�%+��&��%��:��*��, #+�&%�.��+�� %��+�,��+�$�6;�

�� .�+�� %�)��*� ',+� ��)) ++� +�)&,�� +.&� .&)"&,+*6� �%��&%��04��) �*��&%��%+)�+��&%��&,%� %��%�� *&$��*+)�%�+��.&)"# "��+�)&. %��*�&+�',+�. +��+.&��%�*4�*&$��*+�%� %��)&��!,$'4��%�&%�7#��&,%� %�6��,�*��0�.�*��)��*�** &%5��.�+�� $��,)�#�&-�)�C4�E4�@?4��%��@A��,)�#�*6��,*��.�*�')�'�) %��+&�)��&%�+��,'�&$ %��.��"�%�4��#&*��+��.&)"&,+�. +��# ��+�.� ��+7+)� % %�*�** &%6��+�� %%�)4��)) ++��&%2��4�:9$�*&)��+&% ��+6;�

� +��&+��&#��$��#��%�� %��%�4�&%��$ ��+�+� %"�+��+��) �*.&,#��-�� -��-�)0+� %�6� &+�*&6�:�0��&�#*��)��+&�),%�*,�7@B�*��&%�*��&)�+��@@?$��,)�#�*�� +�&)�$&)��+ $�*� %�A?@B4��%��#*&�+&. %�+��&#��$��#� %��&*�&.�A?@B6��,+�2)*+4��-��+&�$�"��+��6�6+��$� %�,%�8��+9*��#.�0*��)�8;�

�/+�,'�&%�� *�*��,#�� *��$��+� %��%�� 4�� %��&%��0�@F6

Dou

g Pe

nsin

ger –

Get

ty Im

ages

for I

AA

F

SPONSORED BY WWW.IAAF.ORG


pacific assnPresident’s Message

8c

t&

rn

• A

pr

il–

Ju

ne

20

13

The Pacific Association is happiest when weprovide venues locally to our members. Ourboard of athletics is constantly searching forevents that we can host, as it’s one way for ourassociation to generate income (or breakeven). The profits from these national venues,such as the Junior Olympics and the OlympicTrials, have been invested and that investment,over time, enables us to make grants to the PAFoundation.

The PA Foundation is almost finished withits operating procedures, budget, and plans.The Foundation has its own board of directorsand separate non-profit status. In a nutshell,the Foundation’s purpose is to provide grantsto PA members. These grants may go to ath-letes, officials, or clubs. The Pacific Associationmade the first donation to the foundation.Soon, Pacific Association members will havethe opportunity to donate, too. When its web-site is launched, we’ll announce it onwww.pausatf.org

Last year, the PA Open and Masters Track& Field Championships were held simultane-ously at the College of San Mateo. This year,CSM is unavailable, so these events will be heldseparately. The PA Open Track & Field Champi-onship will held at San Jose City College onSun., May 26 (Memorial Day weekend). The PAMasters Track & Field Champs will be held onSat., June 8 at Chabot College. For the LDRgroup, the Marin Memorial 10K will be held onMon., May 27, so you have an additional oppor-tunity to compete! I’ve seen athletes competein the track championship as a warm-up to their10K. I don’t know if this is crazy or smart!

Meanwhile, John Rembao, Tim Wason,and I will be planning the 2015 Cross CountryClub National Championships. If you have anyideas for sponsorship, donations, or equip-ment, please let us know. You all have my emailaddress ([email protected]). The largestresponsibility is hosting the post-race awardsparty and providing T-shirts. Entry fees gomainly to the required $30,000 prize money forthe championship and some operating expenses.

The Pacific Association recognizes out-standing contributions with annual awards inthree categories: 1) Tom Moore Award recog-nizes outstanding lifelong achievement andservice to track & field and the Pacific Associa-tion; 2) Hall of Fame Award is awarded for out-standing accomplishments, either as an athleteor for contributions on a supporting sport com-mittee or both, and: 3) Service Awards arechair and committee awards to our sports andactivities, such as membership development,LDR, disabled, officiating, and administrators.

You may submit nominations for any ofthese awards by the end of April. Visitwww.pausatf.org for the form and send it toLeroy Milam, PA Awards chair. This associationis large and we need you to zoom in on recog-nizing volunteers. Presentation of theseawards will occur at our May 21 meeting inSacramento. Help us give recognition wherethe recognition is due! You have a voice in thePacific Association.

Nearly four years have gone by since I firstwrote to you as your president. I’m at the endof my 2-term limit, so the next time you readthis President’s Message, someone else will beat the helm. I won’t be disappearing, though.I’ll continue to volunteer and take leadershippositions to help guide our sport. And you’ll stillsee me racing in LDR and maybe competing insome track, as well as officiating and managing.n

Iren

e Herman

lherman

49@yahoo

.com

continued on page 25

Donner Pass to

Lassen Nat'l ParkSaturday - Sunday

August 24 - 25, 2013

RoadsLessTraveledRelays.comBene�ting


ct&rnCalifornia Track & Running News

presents the

your guide to running,wAlking, trAil And multi-sports in cAliForniAcontaining events through december 2013

25,000 Copies Distributed!

• Event Listings

• Running Network Spring Shoe Review

• Hot Topic–USATF Officials:What They Do and WhyYou’re Needed

Check Inside for:

runner’s schedule calendarApril–June 2013

Rebe

cca

Traj

an

You can also find this calendar atwww.caltrack.com

Southern California USATF memberERIKA AKLUFI (The Janes EliteWomen’s Running Team) set a courserecord in finishing first woman overallat the Brea 8K in February. See storyon page 28.


10c

t&

rn

• A

pr

il–

Ju

ne

20

13

4/5–7—San Luis Obispo Marathon, Half, & 5KAll our races are on routes that will take youthrough an authentic coastal California town,challenge your will, and inspire you to achievemore. The Marathon + Half benefit the Leukemia& Lymphoma Society. www.slomarathon.com

Sun., 4/21 Napa Valley Silverado Half & 5KThis exciting road race starts and finishes in theheart of Calistoga, at the north end of scenicNapa Valley. The course follows the SilveradoTrail (a paved roadway) to the turnaround justbefore Pickett Rd. for the 5K and at CrystalSprings Rd. for the half marathon. The course isflat and fast with only two minor hills. The en-tire route is surrounded by vineyards and winer-ies with great vistas of the surroundingmountain ranges, including Mt. St. Helena andthe picturesque Palisades. The beautiful springweather and wildflowers are a sure treat thistime of year. www.envirosports.com

Sat., 5/4 Los Vaqueros Wildflower Run 10K LivermoreLos Vaqueros Wildflower Run is a 10K trail run atthe beautiful Los Vaqueros watershed, locatednear Livermore. This is the fourth time the racehas been held, returning after a 2-year hiatus.The course will be altered slightly from the pastdue to changes in the trail. Registration is lim-ited to 100 runners. www.ccwater.com/losvaque-ros/LVWildflowerRun.asp

Sun., 5/5 Pacific THERx 5K4Play, Portola ValleyCelebrate the importance of fitness and thevalue of play at the Pacific THERx 5K4Play, ben-efitting Playworks Silicon Valley. Run 5K or walk2K at 8 am on our beautiful out-and-backcourse. Trained Playworks staff will provideplayground activities during the run for all kidswith a racing parent. Part of PA/USATF and PaloAlto Grand Prix series. Join in! www.5K4Play.com

Sat., 5/18 Weed Run for Schools, WeedWeed Run for Schools incorporates a halfmarathon, 10K, and 5K run/walk to promote theWeed business community, the surroundingarea, and Weed High School. Both the 5K and10K courses wind through the scenic crosscounty trail surrounding the high school. Thehalf marathon starts north of Weed in the beau-tiful Shasta Valley, ending at Weed HS. Cost is$25 (5K), $35 (10K), and $50 (half marathon).Proceeds go to fund off-campus experiences forour students, like college field trips and careerexploration. http://weedrun4schools.weebly.com

Sat., 5/18 Contra Costa Kops for KidsRun/Walk/Wheelchair Races, ConcordHeld at the Willow Shopping Center in Concordthe race includes a 1-mile, 5K, and 10K. Registra-tion will take place from 6:45–7:45 am. The racebegins at 8 am. This year the event will feature alive band, East Bay’s own M.T. Kace. The race isbeing held on Armed Forces Day and the lastday of National Police Week. All proceeds willbenefit Contra Costa Kops for Kids. Visitwww.contracostakopsforkids.org or call925.827.1998 for further info and registration.

Sun., 5/19 Windsor Green Half, WindsorThis is the first event in a three-race series calledThree Half Marathons in Northern CaliforniaWine Country. The other two are the Aug. 11Water To Wine Half in August and the Healds-burg Half in October. Complete all three eventsand receive a custom label bottle of wine withevents on the label. www.runwinecountry.com

Sun., 5/26 Vista Strawberry Festival RunSan DiegoCome join us for our 4th annual run. We have a10K, 5K, and kids’ runs. All runners receive a per-formance T-shirt, custom medal, fresh fruit atthe finish line, fun goodies bag, and free craftbeer (age 21+). This event is chip-timed for the10K & 5K. And you have never seen an expo likethe Strawberry Festival: more than 250 vendors,11 different contests throughout the day, livemusic, great food, flash mobs, carnival rides,and much, much more! This is San Diego’sSweetest Event! Join us for a “berry” fun time!More info at www.VistaStrawberryFest.com orwww.Strawberry5000.com

Sun., 5/26 Strawberry Stampede, ArroyoGrandeThe Strawberry Stampede 10K Run, 5K Run, &5K Walk is held in conjunction with the ArroyoGrande Strawberry Festival on Sunday of theMemorial Day weekend. All races begin at 8 am.

calendarStatewide Event Listings

disclaimerEvery effort is made to ensure the ac-curacy of the information provided.However, the publisher is not respon-sible for errors, omissions, orchanges made after publication. Youcan save yourself time, money, andfrustration by preregistering forevents (especially before making anytravel plans). You may wish to con-firm by telephone with organizersthe date, time, and location just priorto the event.

listing your eventFor $75, your listing will be in printand online through the event date.Changes may be made at anytime atno additional charge. If you purchaseadvertising space, a listing is includedin the cost. Contact Dave Parham [email protected]

An up-to-date version of these list-ings is online at www.caltrack.com

©2013 Shooting Star Media. All RightsReserved. Reproduction in any formis prohibited without consent of thepublisher.


Refreshments and awards immediately followingthe races. www.strawberrystampede.com

5/31–6/1 Reno-Tahoe Odyssey Relay, Reno, NVThe Reno-Tahoe Odyssey Relay Run Adventure isideally suited for teams of 12 runners on a 178-milecourse. Teams start in Downtown Reno next tothe Truckee River, travel through the Sierra Ne-vada mountains and along the shores of LakeTahoe and then circles through the high desert ofNorthern Nevada before finishing back in Reno. Anew addition to the relay this year is the RTO One.The RTO One is a one-day, 12-leg relay for teams of4 and 6. It takes place on the final portion of thefull Odyssey course and ends at the Finish Line Fes-tival in Reno. www.renotahoeodyssey.com

Sun., 6/2—Lake Chabot Trail Challenge Half Marathon & 5K, Castro Valley30th annual race at Lake Chabot Regional Park in-cludes t-shirt, post-race refreshments, & raffle. Halfmarathon course is mostly on dirt fire trails and isvery hilly and challenging. 5K course is on asphaltfrom the marina to the dam and back. Also hilly andchallenging. 8am start. Pre-Reg Cost: $25 (5K) &$40 (Half). Race Day: $30 & $45.www.cvtrackclub.com

Sun., 7/14 Do the Double, MarinSee below. www.doubleroadrace.com

Sun., 8/11 Water to Wine Half Marathon, HealdsburgThis is the second event in a three-race series

called Three Half Marathons in Northern Califor-nia Wine Country. Complete all and receive a cus-tom label bottle of wine with three events on thelabel. www.runwinecountry.com

Sat.-Sun., 8/24-25 Sierra Nevada Relay, DonnerPass to Lassen Nat’l Parkwww.RoadsLessTraveledRelays.com

Sun., 10/20 Healdsburg Half MarathonThis is the final event in a 3-race series calledThree Half Marathons in Northern California WineCountry. Complete all and receive a custom labelbottle of wine with three events on the label.www.runwinecountry.com

Sun., 10/20 Humboldt Redwoods Marathon, Half& 5K, Humboldt Redwoods State Park35th annual race presented by Six Rivers RunningClub. Avenue of the Giants is paved, shaded, andfast. Certified and sanctioned Boston qualifier. Asthe PA/USATF Half Marathon Championship in alldivisions it has $2900 in prize money for PA/USATFmembers only. Beautiful commemorative awardsin all races and race t-shirts with original wildlife art.9 am. www.redwoodsmarathon.org n

Our race listings are updated regularly socheck them out atwww.caltrack.com

You can also visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CaliforniaTrackRun ningNews

USATF Association Schedules on the WebCentral www.central-california.usatf.org

Pacific www.pausatf.orgSan Diego/Imperial www.sdusatf.org

Southern California www.scausatf.org

Up for a New Challenge? Try the Double Road Race®

By David Prokop, Best Road Races Editor

Marathon great Bill Rodgers has said, “Folks will enjoy this race more when theyconsider it a strategy event—with different options available to all runners.”

He’s talking about the Double Road Race® (Double for short). Not simplytwo races run within a short time span, the essence of the Double and its inher-ent challenge can best be summed up this way: How do I pace myself througha 10K, then a 5K (which starts 105 minutes after the start of the 10K) to regis-ter my best combined time? Because combined time is the only thing thatcounts, not who won either leg, it’s possible to win the Double without winningeither the 10- or 5K.

An integral part of the Double Road Race® is the Halftime featuring theRecovery Zone. While competitors can do whatever they want during the timebetween the finish of the 10K and the start of the 5K, a formal Recovery Zone isprovided where competitors can get everything from nutrition and hydration tomassage, exercise equipment (to help you stay loose) and various other formsof physical therapy. The Recovery Zone also serves as a social environment forcompetitors to meet and greet fellow runners and compare race strategies andexperiences.

The first official Double Road Race® was held in Pleasanton on Dec. 23.Are YOU ready for something new and uniquely challenging? Try running a Dou-ble in your area. Who knows? You might be very good at it.

California Double Road Race EventsMarin—Sun., 7/14

Redwood City—Sun., 8/18San Juan Bautista—Sat., 9/28

San Francisco—Sat., 11/23Pleasanton—Sun., 12/22www.doubleroadrace.com

Ap

ril–

Ju

ne

20

13 •

ct

&r

n11


��!��"��04+0/��4#$+-+:+/)<+++�;��'2(02.#/%'<+6�;��'542#-<6+

The minimalist craze that began several years ago has worked its way through the entire runningfootwear industry. In the absence of industry standards, brands have developed competing definitions of minimal, as runners and retailers watch with fascination. This minimalist

groundswell has resulted in entirely new brands, brands new to running, and the revitalization of several companies that, by all appearances, were defunct. No major running brand remains untouchedby this new category.

Over the last several years, the Running Network has looked at Minimal shoes as a distinct category,and we reviewed them separately. However, the shoes we looked at and tested for this cross-categoryreview made it clear that the minimalist philosophy now influences all running shoe design.

Half the shoes in this review are Performance shoes, more than in any previous review. Lighter materials and the focus on geometry have redefined what constitutes a Performance shoe. Light weightused to be the primary distinction of Performance shoes. Now it’s actually the shape of the midsolethat’s more important, as real performance comes from efficient biomechanics. The shoes with the bestshape encourage better running form. Heel-to-toe drop—the difference between the height of the heelrelative to that of the toe—has also become an important design consideration because of the efficiencyof running in a lower profile shoe. One more characteristic of Performance shoes is the stack height:the amount of foam between the foot and the ground. It significantly determines comfort inPerformance (and Minimal) shoes.

This trend toward the minimal has affected even the heavier Motion Stabilizing and Neutral shoe categories. Most of these shoes have trimmed down, focusing on achieving their original functions withless bulk. Christopher McDougal’s 2009 book, Born to Run, was a catalyst of this Minimalist trend, butits vigorous growth continues because runners are enjoying less. Oh, they aren’t enjoying runningless—they’re enjoying the feel of less on their feet. It’s a new take on the old adage, Less Is More.

—Cregg Weinmann, Running Network Footwear Reviewer


� � � � � � �

©20

13 B

rook

s Sp

orts

, Inc

.


Cregg Weinmann has been the Running Network’s footwear reviewer since 1998. His reviews have evolvedfrom biannual reviews—Spring and Fall—to additional two-page reviews on specific categories such asMinimalist, Road Racers, Track & Field, Trail, Best Shoes Under $85, and Kids’ Shoes.

I’m amazed how well the projects come together. The team we have—Kristen Cerer and Alex Larsen in design,Marg Sumner as proofreader, Cregg as footwear reviewer—helmed by project coordinator/editor ChristineJohnson, has found a way to share an immense amount of information in an easy-to-read format.

In the end, content is king. The Running Network’s Shoe Reviews and features provide access to our carefullyresearched information on running footwear to more than 4 million readers via print, the Web, digital andmobile formats, and social media (FB and Twitter).

Where is running footwear going? Here, Weinmann and researchers like Simon Bartold and Jack Daniels arein agreement: Lightweight will not be going away. Minimalism is a great tool—really, training equipment—toimprove your running experience and performance. At the end of the day, the Running Network’s ShoeReviews and features, along with our partners’ magazines, websites, and social media, are here for just onereason: to enhance your running experience and relationship with your local running community.

So take a run, cool down, and then enjoy reading our 2013 Spring Shoe Review, and continue your quest forthe perfect running shoe for you!

Larry EderPresident, Running Network LLC

#&+&#3��/'2)9��0034� �'7��#-#/%'�� 6�

��'-��#9#/0�� #5%0/9��+2#)'�� +:5/0�"#6'��+&'2��

American Track & Fieldwww.american-trackandfield.comAthletes Onlywww.atf-athlete.comAthletics (Canada)www.athleticsontario.caAustin Fitwww.austinfitmagazine.comCalifornia Track & Running Newswww.caltrack.comClub Runningwww.rrca.org/publications/club-runningCoaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.comColorado Runnerwww.coloradorunnermag.comGet Active!www.healthclubs.comGreater Long Island Running Club’s Footnoteswww.glirc.orgLatinos Corriendowww.latinoscorriendo.comMarathon Guidewww.marathonguide.comMichigan Runnerwww.michiganrunner.netMissouri Runner & Triathletewww.morunandtri.comRunning Journal & Racing Southwww.running.netRunMinnesotawww.runmdra.orgRUNOHIOwww.runohio.comTrack & Field Newswww.trackandfieldnews.comUSATF’s Fast Forwardwww.usatf.orgUSATF–New England’s Exchange Zonewww.usatfne.orgThe Winged Footwww.nyac.orgThe Winged Mwww.themac.comYouth Runnerwww.youthrunner.com

Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann Project Coordinator/Editor: Christine Johnson Designer: Kristen Cerer Proofreader: Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial Services Shoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña, Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales: Running Network LLC, Larry Eder, President, 608.239.3785, [email protected]: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785 Website: www.runningnetwork.com For a Media Kit, please visit our website.

This 2013 Spring Shoe Review is produced independently by Running Network LLC for its partner publications. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matchedto the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

Copyright © 2013 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted withoutprior written permission of Running Network LLC.

Running Network LLC and its partner publications suggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meet with a healthcare professional beforebeginning or changing your fitness regimen.

��

"'-%0.'�40�4*'��5//+/)��'4702,=3��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7

� ��"��

BEST SHOENEUTRAL

SPRING 2013

� � � � ��5//+/)��'4702,��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7<++

BEST SHOEMOTION

STABILIZINGSPRING 2013

BEST SHOEPERFORMANCE

SPRING 2013

BEST NEW SHOE

SPRING 2013

BEST RENOVATION

SPRING 2013

� � � � �

� �

� � � �

� � ��

� �

� � �

�


� � � � � �

� � � � � � � � �

P D P S A

W F

�

� � � ��

��

� � � � �� 5//+/)��'4702,��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7<+++

��'-��#9#/0�� <��As ASICS’ flagship shoe for plush stability, the Gel-Kayano continues to set the bar high for this category. Now sleeker andlighter weight, Round 19 is worthy of the attention it will surely attract. The upper features an almost tailored fit, as ASICS continues to dial in its well-established technologies of separated Discrete eyelets and Bio-Fit stretch inserts. The shoe supports and moves with the foot better than ever. The upper trades the previous open mesh for a closed mesh and weldedoverlays, giving the shoe a more unified feel. The midsole features the same basic profile but is more rounded, as has beenadopted by other shoes in ASICS’ line. The generous Gel pad has been reshaped and the Dynamic DuoMax—a stabilizingmedial support—effectively curbs overpronation. The outersole is AHAR in the heel with DuraSponge rubber, ASICS’ provenrubber compound, in the forefoot. With its combination of fit, stability, and stylish performance, the Gel-Kayano 19 earned ouraward for Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“Fit just right; stable and secure. Plenty of cushion. What’s not to like? The Kayano is predictable and effective.”

Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16 (D), 8–14,15,16 (2E,4E); Women 5–12 (B,D) • Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s size 11); 9.4 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: combination Strobel lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel) • Recommended for: low- to medium–high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

�#5%0/9��20�2+&��522+%#/'��<��The Hurricane is Saucony’s most reliable motion stabilizing shoe and, with Round 14, was the first of its mainline models tofeature the lowered geometry of an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. Here, it keeps that geometry and its efficient heel-to-toe transition. Also retained in the upper are the Sauc-fit insert and flat laces to secure the foot, a similar breathable mesh, andreflective accents. The midsole is PowerGrid, a foam formulation that’s responsive and resilient, and offers a firm ride and gooddurability. The outersole is XT-900 carbon rubber in the heel, with iBR+, a formulation of injected rubber, in the forefoot forgood durability with the cushioning of blown rubber. The result is a durable shoe that can handle the miles and the long, hard road.

“Perfect fit, and stable. Lots of bounce and great support. The Hurricane was an outstanding shoe for me.”

Sizes: Men: 7–13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E); Women: 5–12 (2A,B,D,2E) • Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board • Recommended for: low- to medium–high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

�200,3��&2'/#-+/'��<��Brooks’ go-to shoe has risen to the level of industryicon. The Adrenaline is evidence of Brooks’ commit-ment to consistency: Round 13 maintains what works.The upper has undergone a shift to a smaller mesh,and the details—welded forefoot overlays and a seriesof adjustable eyelets that improve the midfoot fit of theshoe—have been fine tuned, resulting in a morerefined fit. In the midsole, there have been some minoradjustments to the look of the sidewall molding, butthe crashpad and medial support remain essentiallyunchanged. The outersole still has its proven configu-ration of HPR carbon rubber in the heel and Flextra, ablown rubber compound, in the forefoot. By offering asubstantial array of features and holding the pricesteady, Brooks has made the Adrenaline an even bettervalue. And that’s good news for loyal Adrenaline fansand an invitation to potential fans.

“They hugged my foot very nicely. The cushioning wasmore responsive than plush, but they were protective.

The stability is what the Adrenaline is all about.”

Sizes: Men: 7–13,14,15; Women: 5–12,13 • Weight: 11.5oz. (men’s size 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: combination Strobel lasted, S257Strobel board (forefoot) • Recommended for: low- to medi-um–high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

�200,3��#6'//#��<��Overshadowed by its flashier siblings, the plushTrance and the bestselling Adrenaline, the Ravenna isoften seen as Brooks’ workhorse stability shoe.However, runners who give it a try will discover that itdelivers real performance. The upper features slightmodifications: a round mesh similar to that in the 3; asmall, reworked saddle in the midfoot to lock the footdown over the midsole; and an enhanced, hinge-likearticulation in the eyestay that flexes as the foot bends.The BioMogo midsole has Brooks’ DNA cushioninginsert in both the heel and forefoot to attenuate thefoot’s impact through the gait cycle. The outersole isthe simple and proven HPR-and-Flextra-carbon/blownrubber combination for durability, yet it softens theride. The Ravenna’s light weight is a plus, but stabilityis its strength.

“Great fit and light as a feather. I was impressed by thecomfort. The Ravenna is very balanced and secure. I

could not expect more.”

Sizes: Men: 7–13,14,15; Women: 5–12,13 • Weight: 11.1oz. (men’s size 11); 9.2 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip lasted, S257 Strobelboard • Recommended for: low- to medium–high-archedfeet with mild to moderate overpronation

�+:5/0�"#6'��/31+2'� <��Mizuno has earned its reputation for providing comfortand performance due to shoes like the Inspire. Round9 provides all that with a bit of added oomph. Theupper is a new, closed mesh that improves supportand breathability, and it’s enhanced by no-sew overlays,so the fit remains familiar though a bit more support-ive. The midsole is AP+ foam, and the asymmetricalWave plate inhibits overpronation. This configurationalways has been a good combination, but testersseemed even more aware of its performance in thisround. The outersole of X-10 rubber provides tractionand durability, and the hinge-like Smooth-Ride soledesign provides a smooth transition through groundcontact. The result is a stable, responsive shoe thatdelivers high-mileage performance.

“Good fit right from the box; very stable and secure feel-ing. Good cushioning and stability. The Inspire has been

consistently well done.”

Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (D,2E); Women: 6–12 (2A,D) •Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted •Recommended for: low- to medium–high-arched feet withmild to moderate overpronation

.04+0/�34#$+-+:+/)

BEST SHOEMOTION

STABILIZINGSPRING 2013


�5//+/)��'4702,��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7<+6 � � � � �

1'2(02.#/%'

��'-��8%'-��<��The Gel-Excel, ASICS’ flagship shoe of the 33 series, has undergone its first update, and Round 2 introduces a new approachto the geometry of the series, Fluid Axis, which debuts in two shoes this season. The upper has been dialed in to provide justenough structure to line up the foot over the midsole, particularly in the heel, while the no-sew overlays provide security. Themidsole is composed of Solyte foam topped by SpEVA, and features Fluid Axis geometry, which allows flexibility in two planesunder the heel. Here, it’s firmer than the version in the Gel-Lyte 33 2, so it offers a different and more supportive ride. The outersole is spare, though there’s more of it here than on the Gel-Lyte. It’s enough to contribute a touch of structure and a bitof cushion where the rubber is bonded to the midsole. The net effect is a lightweight, mid-mileage shoe for faster running ordaily training for efficient runners who are speedy and lightweight themselves.

“They fit very nicely and are comfortable from beginning to the end of the run. They have lots of cushioning, though the heel is noticeablyless bouncy than the forefoot.”

Updates the ASICS Gel-Excel 33 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–13 • Weight: 10.3 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.6 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutralbiomechanics

�+:5/0�"#6'��-+8'2��<��The Elixer continues to be a flashy bauble in Mizuno’s line, but it’s a bauble with plenty of muscle. The upper is a closed mesh,but with attention-grabbing, sublimated graphics. Like other Mizuno shoes this year, the midfoot is supported by no-sew overlays and anchored by heel and toe overlays of traditional synthetics. The low-profile midsole has a single asymmetricalWave plate setup, but the real surprise is the responsiveness and resilience of the AP+ foam. The outersole continues with X-10 rubber in the heel and a forefoot combination of blown rubber laterally and fabric-backed TPU medially, improving the durability of the shoe. The result is a snappy, lightweight shoe for faster and more stable running.

“Very good fit, secure and supportive. The ride is firm but well cushioned, and the stability is surprising for a shoe this light. Very versatile—you could even race in them.”

Updates the Wave Elixer 7 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: 9.8 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.2 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

��'-��94'��<� �The roots of this shoe reach way back, and Gel-Lyte isa welcome addition to ASICS’ 33 series. Round 1 hadsignificant strengths, but its upper had a few issues.Round 2 addresses those and also debuts Fluid Axis,ASICS’ new midsole geometry designed to work efficiently with the foot’s motion. The upper has beencompletely redesigned, with a minimesh and syntheticoverlays but no additional structure. The midsole isSolyte foam with flex grooves beneath the heel’s mainjoint (one of 33 joints in each foot) to allow its move-ment without excessive hindrance. Some weartestersfound this movement uncomfortable, though it mayjust take getting used to. The outersole is a minimalcarbon rubber/blown rubber setup only in the highest-wear areas to allow the foot to take advantage of theFluid Axis system. The result is a shoe for faster run-ning that will make your feet stronger, though you mayneed some time to adapt to it, and it may not be a shoeyou can wear every day.

“Felt like my feet were in moccasins. ... The shoe feelsgood to run in. I always felt like my feet were landing

properly, but they were a little tiring to get used to. Not superdurable, but they are useful for my faster runs.”

Updates the Gel-Lyte 33 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women6–13 • Weight: 9.2 oz. (men’s size 11); 7.7 oz. (women’ssize 8) • Shape: semi-curved to curved • Construction:Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

�200,3��52'�-07��<��Round 2 of the PureFlow sports a few key changesalong with a bump in the price, which is a sign of thetimes. The upper has been completely reworked. Thetongue is gone, in favor of a continuous lateral-sideopening with a medial flap. Support over the instep isprovided by the Navband and no-sew overlays on eachside that create a midfoot saddle. Paint the whole thingin dayglow colors and reflective accents, and you havebuilt-in, eye-catching safety features. The low-profilemidsole continues with a 4mm drop that can handlesome serious mileage. The outersole is carbon rubber,used sparingly on numerous pods (especially the podunder the fifth metatarsal), allowing the foot to supportand balance itself in midstance. Succinctly put, thePureFlow 2 is low-slung, light, and responsive.

“Comfortable while running, neither too snug nor [too]loose. The toebox does not feel confining, plenty roomy.

A lot of days, this is my Go-To shoe for all types of training. Ilike the way the shoe feels while running.”

Updates the PureFlow • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–12 •Weight: 9.8 oz. (men’s size 11); 7.9 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted •Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutralbiomechanics

�#2*5��-07��+)*4��5-%25.<��The Flow Light Fulcrum represents the latest iterationof Karhu’s Fulcrum technology, and we think it’s themost effective one to date. The midsole combines theFulcrum element—here, a second-density foam—with a softer density of EVA to deliver an effective ridethat’s responsive and resilient. The geometry is a lowheel-to-toe drop with a shallow stack height that light-ens the shoe while still providing good comfort andcushion. Spare rubber on the outersole lends a littletraction and durability without adding much weight.The upper is airmesh with welded overlays that wrapthe foot in a minimal design that isn’t skimpy. One par-ticularly nice touch are twin lobes of memory foam inthe ankle collar that enhances the fit and adds thetouch of comfort needed to complete the shoe whilekeeping the weight down. The result is an excellentperformance shoe for faster running or racing.

“Great fit, light, and just barely enough cushion, but they arelight. Good ‘go fast’ shoe for faster training and racing.”

New • Sizes: Men 8–13,14; Women 5–12 • Weight: 8.9 oz.(men’s size 11); 7.5 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, perforated EVAStrobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-archedfeet with neutral biomechanics, for faster running

� � � � �

� �

�

� �

� �

� �


� � � � � � � � � �

� � �

� � �

� � �

� �

� � �

�5//+/)��'4702,��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7<6

�,'%*'23��0�5/��<��The update to the GoRun brings Skechers a bit closer to the mainstream, while retaining its unique story. The entire shoe has beenrevised, and we think the revision is successful. The upper retains its stretch mesh, keeping the slipper-like feel and low-slung,racer fit. No-sew, welded overlays support the saddle as before. The midsole geometry has been altered with slightly lowered lugsunder the arch, reducing the awkward midfoot feel of the last round. The ride is resilient and cushions the foot well, but it’s veryflexible and may require some adaptation prior to regular wear. The outersole is almost nonexistent: about a dozen carbon rubberdots spread over a road-grade EVA sole. As a racer or a shoe reserved for faster-paced running and speedwork, it’s very good.Super-light and efficient runners might get away with daily wear, but all runners can benefit from a shoe like this for some of theirfaster runs.

“Snug, racerlike fit. I get a ‘hit the gas’ feeling when I put this on, so I use them for my fastest runs.”

Updates the GoRun • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14; Women 5–10,11 • Weight: 7.5 oz. (men’s size 11); 6.5 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curvedto curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running

�'740/��2#6+49<��The Gravity is the original Newton shoe, now thoroughly dialed in and rolling along. Designed for neutral runners interested inperformance, its technology encourages forefoot striking via its cushioning lugs, but it benefits all neutral runners by storingand releasing energy for toe-off. Though the upper utilizes traditional airmesh and synthetic suede overlays, they are of reallyhigh quality. (And at this price, they better be!) The midsole is also top-grade EVA, but a secret resides here: A membrane ofHytrel plastic absorbs energy at impact and then releases it at toe-off as the foot rolls forward, contributing an extra little “push.”The outersole is a typical setup of carbon rubber in the heel and lower-density rubber up front to keep the weight down. Overall,the Gravity is all about efficient running, and they’ll go as fast as you can.

“Comfortable fit and quite light. The lugs feel funny, but get better as you run on them. Surprisingly, heel strikers can actually use thesequite well. Good shoe, but $175 seems a bit expensive.”

Updates the Gravity • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 10.3 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.8 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved to curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutralbiomechanics

�+,'��-9,/+4��5/#2��<��The Flyknit Lunar1+ is a new shoe for Nike. Well, it isnew, though maybe a bit of a hybrid. With all of thefanfare over the Flyknit Racer and Trainer, the Lunar1’supper will probably look familiar. It’s knit and shapedin a single process without wasted material. With onlya seam at the ankle collar and the Strobel board,there’s little to irritate; not surprisingly, it fit our testerswell. The lacing doesn’t come up as high as usual nordoes it permit you to select which eyelets to use, but itsecurely wraps the foot. The midsole is Lunarlon foamsimilar to other Lunar shoe configurations; it’s donewell here. It’s responsive and nicely cushioned, but theramp angle—though it’s a couple millimeters lowerthan typical Nike shoes—feels a bit steep when compared to many of the shoes in this review. On theupside, it’s also better cushioned than many of them.Ultimately, it’s a matter of whether it suits you. The outersole is minimal but sufficient, keeping the weightdown and the foot protected.

“I was impressed with the ride more than the fit (niceand cushy), and the performance more than the durabil-

ity (really light and fast). They seem to be worth the price, butI might not buy a second pair.”

New • Sizes: Men 5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 9.6oz. (men’s size 11); 7.8 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobelboard • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feetwith neutral biomechanics

�5.#��0$+5.��-+4'<��The Mobium is a new shoe for Puma, and it takes itsname from the Möbius Strip. (Remember that twistedstrip of paper from your geometry class that lookedlike the infinity symbol?) Mobium describes the tech-nology used here: an elastic cord shaped like a figure-8 and positioned flat in the bottom of the shoe. As thefoot flexes, the cord returns the sole to its originalposition before the next step, better supporting the footby ensuring the foam is in the right spot at the foot-strike. The closed mesh upper has well-positionedfoam in the ankle collar, and offers a snug, though notconstricting, fit. The midsole is durable injection-molded EVA with rounded edges mimicking therounded shape of the heel, with a 4mm heel-to-toedrop that’s firm but responsive. The segmented outersole covers little more than the contacting surfaces to save weight. This is a shoe for faster running that gives the foot a workout as much as itprovides support in a macro sense.

“While running, the shoe works to accentuate the naturalmotion of my feet. The middle of the shoe snugs up very

tightly around my foot. Responsive cushioning, and a nicelight shoe.”

New • Sizes: Men 6.5–12,13,14; Women 5.5–11,12 •Weight: 10.0 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVAStrobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-archedfeet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running

�#5%0/9��+2#)'��<��The Mirage has been a top performer for Saucony,straddling the categories of minimal drop shoes andsupportive shoes with a generous stack height; it’s wellcushioned and efficient. The upper returns to an openmesh with welded, no-sew overlays providing justenough support for the foot with hardly a weight gain.The midsole is responsive and well cushioned enoughto handle high-mileage training—the one constant inall three rounds. The TPU medial support in this iteration is the least obtrusive version yet and is effective at curbing overpronation (thanks, in part, tothe low heel-to-toe drop). The outersole is still justenough pieces to cover the high-wear areas of thesole; it’s pared back a bit, even from previous rounds.The combination of responsive cushioning, lightweight, and great fit earned the Mirage 3 our BestPerformance Shoe Award.

“Usual great Saucony fit: snug in the heel and midfootwith a roomy toebox. Nicely cushioned, very comfort-

able. It’s like a sleek racing shoe upper on a training shoebottom.”

Updates Mirage 2 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 •Weight: 9.8 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.4 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVAStrobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-archedfeet with neutral biomechanics

1'2(02.#/%'

BEST SHOEPERFORMANCE

SPRING 2013


�5//+/)��'4702,��12+/)��*0'��'6+'7<6+

#&+&#3��/'2)9��0034<��The Energy Boost has succeeded in firing up the imagination of runners, even though so far it’s those runners who happen toown running specialty stores. The reason? The Energy Boost is light and really fun to run in. The upper is a sleek, black, stretchywoven textile, with minimal, no-sew overlays that moves effectively with the foot. The innovative midsole employs a new foamformulation (created in collaboration with chemical company BASF) that seems to last forever and provides surprising bounceto the shoe (hence, the “Boost” in its name). Though the geometry is traditional, the shoe has a fast feel, even if it’s not exactlyoutright performance oriented. The outersole is minimal with the extra material carved away, though not at the expense of durability. The combination of innovation, ride, and “cool” factor earned the Energy Boost our award for Best New Shoe.

“The fit was a little tight in the toes, but secure overall. The cushioning is almost trampoline-like, but not out of control. The shaping of themidsole makes it track pretty well.”

New • Sizes: Men 7–15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 10.2 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.8 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

�#5%0/9��20�2+&��2+5.1*� <��This time out, the Triumph joins Saucony’s 8mm parade, featuring the same performance geometry as many of its mainlineshoes and rounding out the Saucony performance lineup. The upper is wide-open air mesh with midfoot overlays sandwichedbetween the mesh layers, and pared back to minimize weight. The overlays at the heel and toe feature a traditional constructionand are positioned to anchor the upper to the midsole. The midsole is a paradox—a generous stack height (read: well cushioned) with a low profile feel, thanks to its 8mm heel-to-toe drop. The outersole is the proven carbon rubber heel/blownrubber forefoot. Overall, the plush, midweight Triumph 9 is a high-mileage trainer with a smooth feel for the road.

“Very comfortable fit. Wrapped my foot nicely and flexed well. Surprising low-profile feel, but pretty plush cushioning. They took what Idished out, and handled my higher mileage runs great.”

Updates the ProGrid Triumph 8 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5–12 • Weight: 11.8 oz. (men’s size 11); 9.2 oz. (women’s size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutralbiomechanics

#&+&#3��51'2/06#��-+&'�<��The Supernova Glide has been a comfortable cruiserdating back to the earliest Supernova neutral offerings.Though not as light as many other neutral shoes, itprovides a plush feel to its ride, something that’s missing in some lighter shoes. The upper is a small-weave mesh that’s a touch more supportive while stillbreathable. Effective overlays secure the midfoot whileopening up in the forefoot for a more comfortable andaccommodating fit. The toe bumper offers good protection and adds durability. The midsole continueswith adiPrene handling extra cushioning, though withdifferent formulations in the heel and forefoot. TheForMotion cassette stabilizes the foot while also serving as an effective crashpad. The outersole continueswith Continental® rubber for durability and traction.Runners should expect continued performance fromthis proven high-mileage shoe.

“Snug heel and arch, roomy toes. Responsive and stable cushioning. Durable high-mileage shoes—what

I’ve expected from the Supernova Glide.”

Updates the Supernova Glide 4 • Sizes: Men6.5–15,16,17,18,19,20; Women 4.5–14 • Weight: 12.2 oz.(men’s size 11); 9.6 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobelboard • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feetwith neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

�+:5/0�"#6'��+&'2��<��It’s hard to remember when Mizuno’s lineup didn’tinclude the Wave Rider. That longevity is due toMizuno’s laser-like focus on providing both a great fitand a great ride. In this round, the upper looks newwith a closed mesh that seems stiffer, enabling the traditional midfoot overlays to be replaced with fewer(and lighter) welded ones. Overlays at the heel and toecontinue to provide the same structure as before. Theshape of the midsole has been subtly altered, thoughour weartesters confirm that it provides the same performance as did the 15. The outersole is X-10 rubber with the SmoothRide hinged element in theforefoot, encouraging a snappy toe-off. Fans won’t bedisappointed, and new users will likely join the ranks.The triple threat of responsive ride, great fit, and high-mileage durability earned the Wave Rider 16 our awardfor Best Shoe in the Neutral category.

“Fit well; comfortable; no loose or tight spots. Nicecushioning, not overly squishy, with a responsive feel.

They are comfortable, durable, light, and cute. Highly recom-mend!”

Updates the Wave Rider 15 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16(D,2E); Women 6–12 (2A,B,D) • Weight: 11.7 oz. (men’ssize 11); 9.1 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted • Recommended for:medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

�'7��#-#/%'�� 6�<��By focusing on aesthetics, performance, and durability,the 890 has contributed a lot to New Balance’s runningshoe success. This is due in large part to NB’s use ofthe surprisingly light and well-cushioned midsolefoam, RevLite, which started and continues the fran-chise. Not messing with success, Round 3 arrives withno dramatic changes, which will be good news to itsmany fans. In the upper, changes are not simply cos-metic. The repositioning of the no-sew overlays wrapthe foot more securely, especially in combination withthe ankle collar foam. The midsole continues withsingle-density RevLite and well-sculpted geometry, par-ticularly in the crashpad. The outersole retains thin,but tough carbon rubber in the heel and a blown rubber forefoot. The net effect is a light, durable, high-mileage trainer with a comfortable fit, as expected. Thecontinued fusion of lightness, comfort, and supportivefit earned the 890 v3 our award for Best Renovation.

“Felt great out of the box and continue to impress.[They] feel light and fast. It is a key shoe in my rotation

because it fits well, feels great, and is reliably versatile.”

Updates the 890 v2 • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,2E);Women 5–11,12 (2A,B,D) • Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s size11); 8.1 oz. (women’s size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, PU Strobel board •Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutralbiomechanics

/'542#-

BEST SHOENEUTRAL

SPRING 2013

BEST NEW SHOE

SPRING 2013

BEST RENOVATION

SPRING 2013


� � � � �

� � ��

� � �

� � �

U

� � �

� � �

©20

13 B

rook

s Sp

orts

, Inc

.


20

ct

&r

n •

Ap

ril

–J

un

e 2

013

hot topic:USATF Officials

It rained the night before the 2011 USA Track & FieldWestern Regional and Pacific Association/USATFCross Country Championships, leaving the trails andmeadows on the Golden Gate Park course slick andmuddy. During the first race of the morning, a chal-lenge developed. A particularly slick portion ofdownhill trail had turned into a quagmire. Severalwomen, in separate instances, slipped and toppledinto the mud. Fortunately, none were injured.

By the end of the race, the well-trodden mudhole had only gotten worse. Two races remained.What could be done? Several USATF officials servingat the event recognized the safety hazard. Theyconvened with the meet director and recom-mended a slight course change for the remainingraces, moving a section of the course from the slip-pery bog to the adjacent grassy meadow. The sug-gestion was gratefully approved and meet officialsquickly moved the flag markers on the course forthe races that followed.

USATF officials are taught from Day 1 that,above all, the safety of all competitors is a priority.

Two lead men round the final turn at the 2009PA/USATF 12K Championships in San Francisco. A 20-meter gap separates them as they head for the fin-ish line with a short block remaining. Suddenly,about 10 meters before the finish line, a lead motor-cycle unintentionally cuts directly in front of theleader, forcing him to quickly veer in a wide arc tohis left to avoid a collision. In that instant, his rivalspeeds past him and crosses the finish first, in frontof the would-be champion.

Who adjudicates the dilemma over who’scrowned the men’s 12K champion? USATF officials,of course.

All USATF officials serve as volunteers afterbeing certified by USATF. Certification requires tak-ing and passing a mandatory open-book exam, orrules review, that tests one’s knowledge of USATFrules. (PA/USATF also requires its officials to at-tend a certification clinic.) Officials are classified byspecialty area (track events, field events, LDR/off-track events, etc.) and experience level. There arefour experience levels: Apprentice, Association,National, and Master. All officials (with the excep-tion of “newbie” Apprentices) must re-certifyevery four years. Every official has an opportunityto work at events at both the local and nationallevels, including U.S. championships.

“We’re not policemen,” said USATF NationalOfficials Committee chair Len Krsak, who has offi-ciated for about 22 years in his home state ofOhio, nationally, and internationally. “We’re thereas officials to make the competition just and fairand equitable so nobody has an advantage or dis-advantage. And we’re generic and neutral. Wereally don’t care who wins or loses.”

It takes about 60 officials to oversee an aver-age track meet, and approximately 120 for majormeets such as the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials.The requirements for LDR events vary. Typically, aminimum of 6–8 officials are needed to oversee amoderately sized road running or cross countryevent at the association level. USATF regional andnational championships, of course, require moreofficiating support.

According to Krsak, there were about 8,500USATF officials throughout the U.S. at the end ofthe 2008–12 Olympiad. Given the year-round de-mands for track, LDR/cross country, and race walk-ing officials, that’s not enough and it’s causing adilemma for USATF administrators and event or-ganizers around the country.

“Generally speaking, I don’t think peoplewant to volunteer any more. USATF officiating isnot a paid profession and it does take time. Youhave to want to do it,” commented George Klee-man, a respected USATF official for the past 35years, whose career highlights include measuring10 world records in track & field throwing events,officiating at several Olympic Games and WorldChampionships, and traveling around the world.He currently sits on USATF’s national Officials Com-mittee and is vice chair of the sport federation’sRules Committee while continuing to officiate.

“This has been the situation for about thepast 10 or 15 years,” Kleeman continued, referringto the shortage of officials, which is largely a con-sequence of aging officiating ranks. “Mostly, I seepeople start to volunteer as officials when theirkids get involved in track & field, or they wait untiltheir kids are grown up. We don’t see many peopleunder 35 or 40 in our ranks. And, in large part, thepeople who regularly officiate are the same peoplethat were around 20 years ago.”

Kleeman, a longtime PA/USATF administrator,initially got involved as an AAU (the predecessor toUSATF) official during his mid 30s in the Houstonarea where he served as the race director for theHouston Marathon from 1976 to 1980. His rootsstarted as a marathon runner, and he continued tocompete for more than a decade while also serv-ing as an official.

Why do people from all walks (and runs andjumps) of life decide to become USATF officials?Shirley and Dick Connors (San Mateo) bothstepped up to track & field’s officiating ranks asschool teachers. Dick, 72, has T&F officiating expe-rience dating to 1964. He recalls officiating indoormeets at the old Cow Palace (Brisbane) and the1967 AAU Indoor Track & Field Championships atthe Oakland Arena. His long résumé includes as-signments at the ’84 Olympic Games (Los Angeles)

continued on page 22

How to Become a USATF OfficialUSATF welcomes yourquestions and commentsabout officiating and, ofcourse, all inquiries abouthow to join its officiatingranks. Contact your localUSATF association’s Officials Certification chair.Find the list atwww.usatf.org/groups/officials/certification/

Mark Winitz

winitz@

earthlink.net


22

ct

&r

n •

Ap

ril

–J

un

e 2

013

and ’96 Olympic Games (Atlanta). He first becameinvolved as an official while serving as a SocialStudies teacher and cross country coach at DalyCity’s Westmoore High School.

“I started officiating with the AAU throughthe all-comers meets we used to have at RedwoodCity’s Sequoia High School. One thing led to an-other, and then I became super involved,” saidConnors, who broke two minutes for 800 metersas a high school athlete.

“In the classroom, the kids’ scholastic motiva-tion ranged from outstanding to none. But on thetrack, I had all honor students. They were all moti-vated to jump higher or run faster in their sport.That fact gave me the impetus and fulfillment tocoach and officiate. Plus, there’s great coma-raderie among officials. Shirley and I have [offi-cials] friends all over the country. We officiate andthen go out to dinner afterwards. It solidifies ourmarriage.”

Shirley, 71, was first certified as a track & fieldofficial in 1991 after officiating in other sports. Shewanted to spend more time with Dick because“he was always gone on Saturdays, traveling allover, officiating at meets.” It was her first forayinto track, although she had majored in physicaleducation in college and earned a Master’s degreein kinesiology after competing in multiple sports.

“I’ve always liked working with children andyoung adults,” said Shirley, who served as an ele-mentary school teacher and coached high schoolvolleyball, soccer, and swimming. “Track & fieldofficiating is one way to help them improve by en-suring fair competition and safety in competition.It’s rewarding watching them improve while beingneutral as an official.”

Shirley’s background in human kinetics ledher to choose the horizontal jumps as her officiat-ing specialty as it gives her an opportunity to ob-serve and analyze how an athlete’s technique,form, and physical strengths and limitations relateto jumping success or failure. She has officiated atfour U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials amongscores of other meets.

Today, a small but growing force of new track& field officials are starting to gain the experi-ences and gratifications experienced by theirpredecessors. George Rehmet (46, Daly City) isone of them. Rehmet is a special educationteacher who works with learning disabled and at-risk youth, serves as the Coastal California Regionstate representative for the Road Runners Club ofAmerica (RRCA) and as the PA/USATF LDR Dis-abled Athletes chair.

Rehmet certified as a USATF official, specializ-ing in LDR, in 2011. He responded to his runningclub’s (Pamakids) call for officials to meet thePA/USATF’s officials requirements for clubs thatdesire to score team points in the association’sRoad Running and Cross Country Grand Prix cir-cuits. Since then, he’s volunteered as a finish linejudge at a number of PA/USATF races and contin-ues to compete when not officiating.

“Being an official can sometimes be challeng-ing when tough calls need to be made,” saidRehmet, “but I’ve gained a number of rewardsfrom officiating. n

Mark Winitz is a USATF Master Level LDR official and

serves as the LDR officials coordinator for PA/USATF.

Recently he added a track & field specialty to his

USATF officials credentials.

continued from page 20

“At first I was nervous, but with the support andtutoring from veteran officials, I’ve grown confi-dent. More importantly, as a runner acting as an official, I really appreciatehow I’m giving back to the sport. The sport hasgiven so much to me. I feel that officiating is oneof the best ways to returnthe favor.”

—George Rehmet

CTRN-APR-JUNE_2013_Layout 1 4/24/13 8:53 AM

Ap

ril–

Ju

ne

20

13 •

ct

&r

n23

1. the sport needs you.All sports, including track & field, long distancerunning, and race walking require officials to en-sure fair competition. When issues or infractionsarise, trained officials, umpires, and referees arethere to resolve the matter—that is, they’re theremuch of the time, particularly at championshipevents. But our veteran officials force is succumb-ing to age. While we’re seeing an encouraging in-flux of new officials, they often don’t officiate withenough regularity—or at all—to make up for ourdedicated, tried-and-true officials who find thatthey can’t officiate with the vigor or frequencythat they once could. Consequently, despite ourbest efforts, an increasing number of events underUSATF’s umbrella are conducted without adequateofficiating crews. Fair competition depends ondedicated, certified USATF officials, all of whomwork as volunteers.

2. your usAtF Association needs you.All 57 USATF associations have track &field/LDR/race walking events within their bound-aries that require competent officiating crews.USATF requires that all of its sanctioned events fol-low applicable USATF rules of competition. Certi-fied USATF officials understand these rules and aretrained to identify and adjudicate rules infractionsin an unbiased manner. USATF officials typicallyrally around, and are appointed to work at, USATF’snational championships. However, many USATF as-sociations conduct association championshipevents with inadequate officiating crews. The asso-ciations with the strongest competitive pro-grams—such as association Grand Prixcircuits—typically require the strongest force of ac-tive officials to ensure that their events are profes-sionally conducted in a manner that’s fair to all.

3. your Athletic club needs you.Many USATF member clubs organize and conductopen and invitational competitions. Too oftenthese clubs run into shortages when they seek offi-cials for these events. If your club organizesevents, you can offer a valuable resource as an offi-cial. Three years ago, the LDR Committee of PacificAssociation/USATF approved a policy that requiresits clubs to have a minimum number of certifiedUSATF officials (with an LDR/XC specialty) on theirclub roster in order to score team points on thePA/USATF Road and Cross Country Grand Prix cir-cuits. This landmark move among USATF associa-tions swelled the number of PA/USATF LDR/XCofficials to over 60. (PA/USATF has more than 300certified officials in all sport disciplines.) “We mustnow find ways to encourage more of these new of-ficials to actually work events,” said PA/USATF LDRofficials coordinator Mark Winitz.

4. you need you (as an official).If you enjoy competing on a regular basis, youknow that there are times when you just can’t, orit’s not prudent, to compete. Wise athletes care-fully plan their competitive schedules to avoidburnout and/or injury. In particular, veteran ath-letes know that growing older requires more judi-cious planning of competitions to remainmotivated and healthy. And even the most carefulplans sometimes end with a temporary or perma-nent inability to compete. Officiating is a reward-ing and productive way to stay involved in yoursport during these times. Plan ahead and becomea USATF official. Your involvement in the sport youlove can continue regardless of whether you’re en-tered in tomorrow’s race or not.

Why not give it a shot? WE NEED YOU!

Join San Diego’s Sweetest Race!May 26, 2013

4th Annual Vista

Register Today:Strawberry5000.com

Chip Timed for 10k & 5k

All Racers Receive:Performance TCustom Medal

Fresh FruitFree Craft Beer (21+)

Who Needs YOU

To Be AUSATF

Official?


PA/USATF LDR NewsMark Winitz

winitz@

earthlink.net

Ap

ril–

Ju

ne

20

13 •

ct

&r

n25

Pacific Association/USATF conducted its annualLong Distance Running Awards Banquet on Feb.17, honoring the outstanding individual athletes,teams, and volunteers who participated in thefour 2012 PA/USATF LDR Grand Prix circuits(short LDR, long LDR, cross country, and ultra-running. The banquet was held at the PyramidAlehouse, Brewery & Restaurant in Berkeley andwas organized and hosted by PA/USATF’s ImpalaRacing Team, an elite development running clubcomposed of all women, founded in 1979, andbased in San Francisco. Almost 100 PA/USATFathletes, coaches, officials, and their friends andfamilies attended. About 80 trophies andplaques were awarded to top performers.

Attendees were treated to presentationsby two keynote speakers. Lisbet Sunshine, amember of the Impalas and veteran of five U.S.Olympic Women’s Marathon Trials races, spokeabout the challenges and rewards of training upto 80 miles per week and competing at a highlevel, while raising three children and workingfull-time as a high-powered director of govern-ment relations at San Francisco State University.Lisbet also talked about the importance of goal-setting and having a support network (such asthe PA) to help realize these goals.

Then Dena Evans colorfully shared some ofher extensive experiences in the sport. Evans isa self-described “soccer mom with a seriousrunning coaching habit.” She was an NCAA Divi-sion I Cross Country Coach of the Year while atStanford University and currently directs theNew Balance Silicon Valley Running Club. Evans,who was recently appointed to the nonprofitboard of the PA/USATF Foundation, also de-scribed how the Foundation assists PA/USATFemerging elite athletes and Olympic hopefuls.

The covey of awards was presented byPA/USATF LDR Committee chairs Tom Bernhard(Men’s LDR), Don Porteous (Cross Country co-chair), and Mountain/Ultra/Trail co-chairs HollisLenderking and Bill Dodson. LDR PhysicallyChallenged Division coordinator GeorgeRehmet was also present.

Here’s a short wrap-up of the majorawards:

Road Racing Runners of the YearAshley Carroll (Impala RT) Brian Pilcher (Tamalpa Runners)

XC Runners of the YearEileen Brennan-Erler (Impala RT) Hans Schmid (Tamalpa)

Ultrarunning Runners of the YearSuzanna Bon (Tamalpa) Jonathan Olsen (Tamalpa)

Performances of the Year(Purdy-Gardner Score)Kim Conley (age 26), Applied Materials Silicon ValleyTurkey Trot 5K, 15:40, 764.99 ptsTesfaye Alemayehu (age 28), Credit Union SACTOWN10-Mile Run, 47:37, 986.27 ptsBest Age-Graded Road PerformancesBarbara Miller (age 73), Clarksburg Country Run HalfMarathon, 1:47:38 (U.S. W70–74 record), 96.76%Brian Pilcher (age 55), Marin Memorial Day 10K, 32:57,97.07%

Club of the Year for Participation and Achievement Tamalpa Runners

Service Awards—Volunteers of the YearRoad Racing: George Paddeck, Lili Paddeck (BuffaloChips RC), USATF LDR OfficialsXC: Les Ong (Excelsior), XC Grand Prix ScorerUltrarunning: Hollis Lenderking (Bay Area Ultra Runners), MUT Chair

Lifetime Service AwardsHollis Lenderking – MUT ChairTyler Abbott – Men’s LDR Chair

National USATF Award Winners(PA/USATF Members with LDR ties)Masters Hall of Fame (Class of 2012 Inductee): LindaSomers-SmithMasters LDR Athletes of the Year: Brian Pilcher &Christine KennedyLDR Masters Age-Division : Linda Somers Smith(W50–54), Brian Pilcher (M55–59), Christine Kennedy(W55–59), Barbara Miller (W70–74)

For a complete list of 2012 PA/USATF individual andteam champions in road running, cross country, and ultrarunning, please visit www.pausatf.org

Many thanks to the Impala Racing Teamand their banquet organizers Kerry Koller andIrene Herman for hosting a very successfulawards banquet.


PA LDR Wrap-Up

The year’s distinctive theme was its competitivecontinuity across the age groups, as eight out of12 of 2011’s Grand Prix champions prevailedagainst their challengers throughout a 15-raceschedule spread over a 10-month calendar.

Tamalpa’s Erika Lindland started her sea-son as two-time defending titlist in the Open di-vision, and trounced her competition en routeto a third. Alone among first-time female cham-pions, Quicksilver’s Amy Burton claimed SeniorOpen (30–39) laurels, both her’s and Lindland’stitles warranting special note as triumphs of ex-

perience over relative youth. They are 29 and39, respectively.

Like Lindland, Clare Abram (Quicksilver)was a double-defending champ, and prevailedyet again in the Masters division. Quicksilverrunners marched on, as both Karen Bonnett(Seniors) and Kat Powell (Super Seniors)reprised their 2011 glories, while 2011 Ultra Run-ner of the Year (UROY) nominee Eldrith Gosneydid likewise among the Veterans (70+).

Quicksilver males were not to be outdone,equaling their female teammates’ dominationof the top spots by claiming four out of six divi-sions. Grand Prix newcomer Marc LavesonH

ollis Len

derking


(Open) debuted with a season highlighted bytop-three overall finishes at the Ohlone andWhiskeytown 50Ks, punctuated by an 18:47 in-augural effort at the Western States 100M.

Toshi Hosaka continued the Quicksilversurge with a successful defense of his SeniorOpen crown, winning the tightest points com-petition of the season, 323–307. He was alsothe busiest Grand Prix runner of 2012, with ninefinishes.

For all its impressive talents-of-many-ages,Quicksilver does have an unquestioned teamleader in five-time defending Masters championJean Pommier. Now 48, he can still win theGrand Prix’s most competitive division by 100points over runners mostly his junior. He can stillbe counted on to establish new age-groupcourse records at several races annually—in2012, at both the Ruth Anderson 50M and Quick-silver 50K—as well as to win races outright, ashe did at both of those along with the Ohlone50K. 2012 was Pommier’s sixth consecutiveGrand Prix crown, placing him in a class by him-self in terms of historic dominance of the series.

With notably strong placements at boththe Jed Smith and Tamalpa Headlands 50Ks—overall seventh and 15th, respectively—DanDecker rounds out Quicksilver’s roster of divi-sion champions. In just his second season ofSeniors competition, he ascended from an also-ran in 2011 to a slot comfortably atop the stand-ings, winning by nearly a century.

Among the Super Seniors, it was Tamalpa’sCharles Savage’s turn to quash Quicksilver’shope of a repeat title. In a season capped by his20th finish at the Western States 100M, Savageparlayed his natural persistence and notablequality control into a 100-plus points triumph.

Persistence? Savage had been a four-time run-ner-up in this age-group, starting with a razor-thin three-point loss when he was a 61-year-oldyoungster in 2008.

Then there was the four-time defendingVeteran’s titlist, Bill Dodson of Stevens CreekStriders. Along with his Tamalpan rival, Roadand XC Grand Prix champ Hans Schmidt, Dod-son routinely splits time among the three LDRdisciplines. His seven Ultra Grand Prix finishes,at age 77, were enough for him to claim his fifthstraight title.

While Quicksilver ruled the Grand Prixroosts among the individual tables, Tamalpamarshaled its depth for a stronger showing inteam competition, winning the Men’s comfort-ably, while falling only seven points short ofQuicksilver among Women’s and a mere twopoints behind Buffalo Chips in Mixed. Alto-gether, that consistency yielded a 24-point over-all Team victory for the Tamalpans, rebuttingQuicksilver’s sweep of the team awards in 2011.

Neither female UROY nominee competedfrequently in 2012, but both more than compen-sated in quality for any perceived lack of quan-tity. Most notably among Grand Prix runners,2003 UROY Jenny Capel (Silver State Striders)recorded the year’s most impressive finish withher age-group course record 7:37:09 at the Fire-trails 50M, a time only minutes shy of ultra leg-end Ann Trason’s 25-year-old women’sstandard.

Sonoma’s Suzanna Bon (Tamalpa) has spe-cialized for years in the 24-hour run, one of his-tory’s two premier ultra events (along with theroad 100K). There has never been any questionof her form or fitness but, not unusually forraces of such duration, metabolic issues havenagged her persistently. In 2012, she solved theriddle, first traveling to Cleveland for the USATFchampionship where she notched 137 miles,placing third and earning a Team USA slot forthe World Championships in Katowice, Poland.There she improved to 144 miles, good for sec-ond American finisher and fifth-place overall, aperformance integral to lifting Team USA to theGold by 28K over France. Thus did Bon earn thePA’s UROY crown.

Of one nominee for the male award, JeanPommier (Quicksilver), there is not a lot to addto his seasonal Grand Prix synopsis. Except,most obviously, that he received his first UROYnomination in 2007, when he won the award,and has been the co-nominee every year since.

But it was Jon Olsen (Tamalpa) who, likeBon, achieved a stunning breakthrough on theworld stage and earned UROY honors in theprocess. At the World Championship 100K inItaly last April, his 6:48:52 finish was good forseventh overall and second American, lending ahuge hand to Team USA’s silver medal effort.The very next month, his 159 miles captured theUSATF 24-hour title, and finally, he capped hisyear with a third world-class showing, running12:29:37 for 100 miles.n


6c

t&

rn

• A

pr

il–

Ju

ne

20

13

Created by Bob Anderson, founder of Runner’s World

A New Sport, A New Challenge for RunnersThe Double Road Race® is the next dimension in racing! Run 10k,rest in the Recovery Zone, then run5k. Times are combined for scoring.

Register Today! Use Promo Code CRN1 for your free Double Guidebookwww.DoubleRoadRace.com

Cash Awards!For both

overall andage-group

placers

Join us for a DOUBLE at one of the10 locations scheduled for 2013!Visit www.DoubleRoadRace.com for details.

®

But it was Jon Olsen(Tamalpa) who, like Bon,achieved a stunning break-through on the worldstage and earned UROYhonors in the process.


28

ct

&r

n •

Ap

ril

–J

un

e 2

013

Brea 8K winner Brandon Bethke and

Mayor Ron Garcia.

so cal assnLDR News, Q&A

Redondo Beach 10K & 5K Run/WalkFeb. 3, 2013

Lay out your team’s jersey to wear for the gameand plan to host or attend a party—that’s whatmany did the morning of Superbowl Sunday.Not runners throughout Southern California,though. Instead, this year they got up beforedawn to run the Redondo Beach 10K and 5KRun/Walk. And run it they did—especially ifthey were members of USA Track & Field South-ern California. It was really more like we sweptit, though, since our runners claimed most ofthe overall top spots and almost all age grouptop-placing spots.

Perched at the start-ing line and then blastingoff with Eye of the Tigerblaring in the background,USA Track & Field South-ern California’s AnthonySolis (M22, 0:30:44,Barstow) sprinted to afirst-place overall finish,while our very ownNathalie Higley (F43,0:36:16, Redondo Beach)finished first among thewomen. John Gardinier(M40, 0:33:11, RanchoSanta Margarita) andLeilani Rios (F33,0:37:52—time still being

contested, Coto de Caza) sprinted to an impres-sive overall third-place finish for the men andwomen (Leilani’s time may result in a second-place spot in the overall).

A great addition to USA Track & Field

Southern California this year is the CaliforniaTriathlon. Led by Thom Richmond and showingan impressive presence at the Redondo Beach10K, we look forward to great things from thisgroup and appreciate their partnership.

Brea 8KFeb. 24, 2013

The Brea 8K’s slogan—“Chip Timed, USATF Cer-tified, and So Cal’s Finest Finish”—truly de-scribes the essence of this race. Not only is thecourse challenging yet fun, it’s one of the best-run events in Southern California. Presented bythe Brea Mall, this event has something for allages. Whether you’re a child just getting intorunning or a masters runner with years of expe-rience, the event sponsors, officials, and volun-teers will ensure you have a great experience.

And with this event boasting one of South-ern California’s finest finishes, our Southern Cali-fornia USA Track & Field athletes finished in likefashion: fine and strong. Another sweep withUSA Track & Field runners and teams capturingthe top spots in almost every age group and cat-egory. Winning the overall race was SCA USATFmember and Powerbar Team elite runner Bran-don Bethke (0:24:55). Winning the overall racefor the women and setting a course record forthe new course was Erika Aklufi (0:28:05). Alsoan SCA/USATF member, Erika runs for The JanesElite Women’s Running Team.

For more great races, join our group andtake part in our coveted Grand Prix. For moreon our events, friend me today at www.face-book.com/#!/rebecca.trahan.714 and visitwww.scagrandprix.org

See you on the roads! n

Reb

ecca

Trahan

bundlolafs@ao

l.com

Wayne Jo

ness

with Skip Stolley

Q&A with Coach Jim Bush

Jim Bush is one of the most successful track &field coaches from the golden era of track &field, a time when fans packed stadiums, andtrack stars regularly received the kind of mediaattention reserved today for top football, bas-ketball, and baseball athletes.

Bush’s legacy continues beyond the hun-dreds of athletes he has trained over his longcareer. Bush has also written several books oncoaching, and during his time at UCLA he men-tored his successor in the Bruin track & fieldprogram, Bob Larsen. Larsen, the long-timecoach of Meb Keflezighi, remarked that JimBush was one of the most organized coacheshe ever worked with.

“Jim Bush did not hesitate if you needed

an answer to a question,” Larsen recalls, “Hewas a very decisive person and focused coach.”

Coach Jim Bush will again be recognizedfor his accomplishments Sat., June 1 at the 2013Jim Bush USATF West Region Outdoor Track &Field Championships, held at the historic DrakeStadium on the UCLA campus. In 2012, the JimBush Championships produced 10 athletesmeeting the “A” standard for the Olympic T&Ftrials, and 12 “B” qualifiers, with Peter Magill(M50) setting a new American age-grouprecord in the 5000m.

Coach Bush took some time to sit downwith California Track & Running News to answersome questions about his career and the sportof track & field.

CTRN: Growing up in Bakersfield, what got you

Rebe

cca

Traj

an


interested in track & field? Wasthere an athlete back then youidolized?

JB: Yes, Jesse Owens. To me, he wasthe greatest.

CTRN: After an outstanding highschool track career, your collegecareer was marred by hamstringinjuries. What do you attributethat to? Did you learn anythingfrom that to help you later as asprint/hurdles coach?

JB: I didn’t know that much abouttrack; you might say I was dumb. Iwas a hurdler. No one evercoached me; no one told me howto start, or how to go over a hur-dle. I used to hit eight out of 10 hur-dles. And it was the same thing incollege. I thought, “When I be-come a coach, I am going to makesure I know how to coach everyevent.” Actually, it made me a bet-ter coach, because I just had noth-ing but problems. My ankles wouldbe swollen, and my knees would bebloody. And that is why I have hadmore great high hurdlers than anyother coach in history. The samething with the quarter-mile: I’llnever forget. My goal was to winthe Fresno Relays. I won my heat inthe hurdles. After my heat, thecoach said, “Jim, my quarter-mileris sick, I need you to run the quar-ter mile distance medley.” I didn’tknow how to run the quarter, so Itook off with the baton as fast as Icould go. By 200, I was practicallywalking. We were so far behindwhen I passed off the baton, I thinkthe crowd thought it was the startof another race. And so then, thatevening when I had to run the highhurdles, I was so tied up I couldn’twin. That broke my heart, but itmade me a better coach.

CTRN: You started coaching crosscountry and track at Fullerton Col-lege with no assistants, and tookthem from worst to first in theconference in your first year. Howwas that possible?

JB: Those kids did everything Iasked them to do. And to me, thatwas the most exciting two years Ihave ever had. I put in a lot ofhours and I did a lot of hard work,and it all paid off. The kids believedin me, and I believed in them. n

For the rest of our Q&A with CoachBush, visit www.caltrack.com

Coach Bush in his office surrounded

by photos and memorabilia from 56

years of coaching.

Way

ne J

ones

s


central ca assnCalendar of Events

April The Fastest Kid in Town All-Comers PointSeries Track Championship for ages 7–14. Thismeet starts promptly at 5:30 pm at CSU Bakers-field Track. Contact [email protected]

June, July (weekly)Run for the Dream All-Comers Meets (youth,open, masters) at Lemoore HS and Hanford HS.Contact [email protected]

June 8–9 Central CA/USATF Track & Field(youth, open, masters) at Tulare Western HS.Contact [email protected] or 661-316-8357

June 15–16 Region 14 Multi-Event Youth JOChampionship (hosted by Pacific Association)www.pausatf.org

June 21–23 Central CA Association JO YouthQualifier at Tulare Western HS. [email protected] or 661-316-8357)Also Officials Training OJT

July 5 –7 Region 14 Track & Field Youth JOChampionship (hosted by Pacific Association)www.pausatf.org

July 22–28 USATF National Junior OlympicYouth T & F Champs at Greensboro, NC

Aug. 14 Samansky Championship (youth, open,masters) Location: TBA. [email protected]

*Level 1 Coaching School 2013, TBAContact [email protected]

*Race Walk Clinic 2013, TBAContact [email protected]

Thurs., Oct. 10 USATF Central CA Annual Meeting, Coco’s (955 Oak St., Bakersfield), 6:30pm. Contact [email protected] or661-316-8357.

Sun., Nov. 24 Central CA Association XC YouthJO Championship, Fresno. Contact LawrenceWatson

Sun., Dec. 1 Region XC Youth JO ChampionshipFresno. Contact Lawrence Watson

Lawrence W

atso

nlawrencewatso

nus@

yahoo

.com

President’s Message

30

ct

&r

n •

Ap

ril

–J

un

e 2

013

san diego assnAll Comers Track & Field

The Summer Nights Track & Field Series will kick off itsfourth season on June 5 at University City High School. Thereare four total meets in the series, including:

wed., June 5 at university city high schoolwed., June 19 at san diego mesa collegewed., June 26 at cuyamaca collegewed., July 10 at lincoln high school

Competitors of all ages and ability levels are welcome tocompete in running, jumping, throwing, and even speedwalking events. Come out to the series for fun competitionand the chance to try a variety of events. For more informa-tion, visit www.summernightstrack.com


california track & running news

Documents

development of skechers

new york city marathon

hard workout

new partnership

giveskechers gorun

boston marathon

training partner

hewas training