Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

The Schedule

September 2010
20 Mile Training Run hosted by Gazelle Sports

October 16th 2010 9 - 6
Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pickup at the David D Hunting YMCA

October 16th 2010 Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon
Final 1.2 miles at 1:00 pm

October 17th 2010 Seventh
Annual Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Where are the awards?

At the Grand Rapids Store:

Abby Geurink
Amy Corrigan
Andye Raxmus
Barb Hale
Brad Remenak
Bradley Clark
Brent Malaski
Carol Pitchford
Carrie Kutzli
David Sandberg
Diane Boehlke
Drew Afton
Gabriela Cermak
Hannan Pohly
Heidi Gibbons
Jack Carson
Jimi Minnema
John Acterhof
Kevin Sweeney
Kip Carle
Laurie Haller
Lorraine Miles
Melissa Currie
Mike Muraski
Robyn Arp
Sarah Boerma
Thomas Marmon
Tom Poet
TEAMS
Stuart Family 1
State Flipcup Champs
Team Harbor
Ada Christian School
Behr Suite B
Team Nutrilite

At the Holland Store:
Anne Hemingway
Darla Brown
David Mart
David Vandermeer
Emily Ballard
Harry Tellman
Jim Fredricks

At the Kalamazoo Store:

Bonnie Sexton
Brian Dobbie
Christine Gaudard
Ed Strong
James Webber
Jill Corstange
Laurie Swaney
Michael Boulter

The rest have been mailed!

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 23 November 2009

2009-11-23T08:25:00.002-05:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

23 November 2009

THANKS and GIVING

It's a great time of year. Lately a lot of people have been posting daily "Thankful" notes on Facebook. I like it. Personally, I have LOTS to be thankful for. You probably know that already.

Life is fun--the lovely Francine and I spent last weekend in and around Richmond, VA, where we ran the Suntrust Marathon. We also spent lots of time with my uncle, aunt, and cousins. Nice catching up. My 186th marathon.

Most of us as runners can be thankful. We have goals. We have great health. We have great friends. We have great attitudes. Thanksgiving is a pretty meaningful time.

But how many of us focus on the second half of the word? The GIVING part. It's one of the best parts of the marathon, and some of the MOST SATISFYING parts of life!

This year, runners of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon raised nearly $100,000 for charities in conjunction with their running efforts. WOW! And the marathon also has been able to contribute nearly $15,000 to charities as well, including the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, many of our aid station groups, Alternatives in Motion, and several others.

We're runners. We're thankful for our blessings. We give to help others. The true meaning of THANKSGIVING!

BOOTCAMP!

We're starting a new Boot Camp session on Dec 1. Check the story below!

BAREFOOT RUNNING?

Hey, you notice lately that more people are running barefoot, or wearing those Vibram five-finger footwear things that they sell at Gazelle Sports? Well, Jason Robillard, a guy I met recently is holding a clinic starting Dec 2 on barefoot and minimalist shoe running. That's about what I know about it, but if you want to check it out, go here.

VIDEO CLIPS of this year's marathon, at http://michiganrunner.tv/2009grandrapids/

PICTURES

The pictures are in!! ASI Photo once again has your pictures ready for you. CLICK HERE

SHIRT EXCHANGE

There are a few shirts for exchange at the Gazelle Sports store in Grand Rapids. You can go in there and exchange if you like. THERE ARE NO XS SHIRTS LEFT. I'm ordering more, however for those who didn't get a shirt. They're backordered. I'm lobbying Brooks as much as I can to get them.

SOCKS, HATS, EXTRA SHIRTS

Extra Red Shirts are available at the BUYSTUFF link. (Give me until tomorrow morning to get these on there!!) $20 Socks, $5.00. Hats are $10.00. We'll have some available on the web shortly at www.cooladventures.net/buystuff.htm. Still have a bunch of the 2008 shirts too, if you like.

XS SHIRTS

The XS shirts - the red shirts are backordered until February. I can get black ones though, same style, same screen printing. So, that's what's happening. I should have them within a couple weeks.

Meet Brandi Cole

I'm on the board of directors of Alternatives in Motion, a Grand Rapids based charity which provides wheel chairs for people who aren't covered by insurance. Last week we had a great opportunity I want to share with all of you. This story is written by Matt Chapman.

Meet Brandi

12-year-old Brandi Cole is a sixth-grader at Dowagiac Middle School who was born with cerebral palsy and uses a power wheelchair to get around. Two days before school started her wheelchair broke down leaving her stranded. An unexpected delay in repairing her chair left friends, family, and staff pushing Brandi around in a manual wheelchair for 10 weeks, robbing her of the independence every 12-year-old desires.

That all changed on Friday November 13, 2009. Surrounded by her family and some wonderful people from the school, Brandi was placed in a nearly new power wheelchair from Alternatives in Motion. For Brandi it was a dream come true, no longer would she have to rely on someone to push her around. For the family and friends who care so much about her, the new chair brought a sigh of relief and an end to their 10-week mobility struggle.

Two days prior we received a call from Kimberly Linton, Brandi's physical therapist. Kimberly was devastated by the delay in repairing Brandi's chair and didn't know what else to do. After talking to several organizations Kimberly was finally referred to Alternatives in Motion and we committed to solving the problem.

First thing Thursday morning we identified a chair we thought would work for Brandi. We did an immediate clean up of the chair, batteries were replaced, old seating was taken out, and everything was adjusted to the smallest setting. By 4:30p.m. Thursday afternoon we were confident the chair would work. George made the phone call to Kimberly and we left for Dowiagiac at 5:50a.m. the next morning.

We greeted Brandi and her entourage in the main office of the school and watched her eyes light up as we brought in the new chair. Kimberly placed Brandi in the chair and Matt went to work making the final adjustments. 30 minutes later Brandi took her new chair for a test drive and was cruising down the hallways. She couldn't stop smiling.

This special day would not have been possible if it wasn't for Kimberly and the staff at Dowagiac Middle School who went the extra mile to make sure Brandi had the mobility and independence she deserved.

For more of the story, check out the rest of our newsletter and watch the video. CLICK HERE

HEY MATT!

I'd also say it wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of great people like you, Johnnie, George, and Liz. And also without the support of those who sponsor Alternatives in Motion. It's all about people making a difference for other people. You can join Alternatives in Motion and help make that difference too. Check it out!

SPECIAL FREE PREVIEW SESSION - THIS FRIDAY

5:30 a.m. See if you like it. Meet at the corner of Market Street and Fulton. We'll have a special introductory session, discuss the schedule, figure out if we want to start at 5, 5:15, or 5:30. Join Jim, Craig, and me and work off a little of that extra food you consumed on Thursday.

The next session--a super-secret "Underground Bootcamp" to take us through the winter. We'll be training in out of the weather in the pre-traffic early mornings. Hill work in the parking ramps. Fun times in the Grand Rapids underground with personal trainer Jim Patch, along with his trusty sidekick, (me) on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting on December 1. 26 scheduled sessions, plus bonus sessions. It's only $250 for a winter of adventure and fitness! More info at www.cooladventures.net/bootcamp.htm

THANKFUL!

Once again, a nice marathon. 38 states on my second time around. Collected a beer glass (that's 33 states). Enjoyed family. Adventures abound in a runner's life. And friends. I'm totally thankful going into this Thanksgiving week.

Cleaning house, getting ready for my family to invade on Thursday. Good times with my girls (three granddaughters), my kids, and my family (real or adopted). Lots of opportunities for thanks. And lots for giving!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon | PO Box 1041 | Grand Rapids | MI | 49501

Newsletter 9 November 2009

2009-11-11T14:32:00.000-05:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

9 November 2009

Stuff Sneaks Up on You.

So, during the build up to the 2009 Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, something surprising happens. President Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. Of course, I was busy working on the marathon and didn't watch the news, which left me totally in the dark about WHY. I'm not getting into politics here--maybe it was totally deserved, maybe it wasn't. There are people who figure out that stuff. I'm not one of them. (I did see a pretty interesting theory though.)

So, I'm thinking a couple days ago, I'll never win a Nobel prize. Even in my most testerone-inspired delusional visions of grandeur, I wouldn't imagine such a thing. Then yesterday I checked my email.

Subject: Your Nobel Prize Nomination

Hi Don!
Thought you'd be interested in seeing this!
Happy running!
CLICK

Yeah, I know. It's all baloney anyway, but I think I love this girl. I'm honored, humbled, and thankful.

OK, I also have a policy--you can rest on your laurels for about 5 minutes, then it's time to get back to work and do something. Here's what I did yesterday.

I delivered all of the age group medals for local runners to Gazelle Sports. For out of town people, I put the rest in the mail this morning. Which Gazelle Sports, you ask? See the list at the bottom right column of this newsletter. The ones for Gazelle in Holland and Kalamazoo should be there on Tuesday.

PICTURES

The pictures are in!! ASI Photo once again has your pictures ready for you. CLICK HERE

AWARDS

See the discussion above and the list below!

SHIRT EXCHANGE

SOCKS, HATS, EXTRA SHIRTS

Feedback Welcomed!

Lots of people have sent me comments, most of them praising the event. A few (VERY FEW) sent suggestions for possible improvement. We're ALWAYS happy to hear those things--they help us to improve for next year. (In fact, the staff always comes up with a lot of ideas. We're our own worst critics.) Feel free to share any ideas you have. We'd love to have your feedback.

XS SHIRTS

The XS shirts - I know you're waiting. I'm working on it. Still working with Brooks to get them. They're backordered. Hang in there!!

Congrats from Ours Sponsor, and a Little Bit of Follow-Up by Dr. Ed Kornoelje

Let me be (hopefully) just another person saying "congratulations" after your race. It has been over 2 weeks, and some of you are wondering what to do next. Here are a few things to keep in mind after a long race.

Some rest from heavy training is needed after any race-the longer the race the greater the time. After a half or full marathon, 4-6 weeks is good. After a few days of complete rest, it is OK to start to do 20-30 minutes of light cardio work, 2-3 times a week. Push-ups, sit-ups, and light weight training are OK too. What if you have some pain and it persists? It is not unusual to have some muscle or bone pain after a race. This should have improved quite a bit by now. If pain is still there and it localizes to one area, consider seeing a physician.

When can you race again? After a half or full marathon, 3-4 months is appropriate, (except if you are "Marathon Don"!). Muscle regeneration continues to occur for many weeks after an event like this. Racing too quickly can damage muscles that are still healing, causing pain, limiting performance, and setting you up for other injuries. Running a shorter race (5K) is OK as part of your 20-30 minutes of light recovery.

Finally, do it again. If this was your first long race, great! Take a break, then sign up for another one. If it is not your first race, keep going. When done correctly, running has many health benefits, and is a wonderful lifetime sport. If you have questions, persistent pain, or would like stay active over the holidays (always a good idea), I will be at Gazelle Sports in GR on Tuesday November 10 at 7 PM for our monthly Metro Health Injury Clinic. We can discuss injuries (both specific to you, or in a generic sense), training, or anything else on your mind. You are welcome to bring family members or friends as well-high school cross country will have just wrapped up-any runner or walker is welcome. Have a great run!

Ed Kornoelje DO
Medical Director of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

Hey!

The lovely Francine and I are off to Richmond, VA for the marathon there this weekend. Also get to visit aunts & uncles and cousins while I'm there. I've not often seen Uncles Ronnie and Jim and my dad all together, but when I have, it's been PRETTY FUNNY. They were raised in the mountains of western Virginia, and the way they tell about their antics while growing up is a blast. Can't wait for this weekend.

Did you read Dr. Ed's article above. Check out the bold print--and go to the seminar tomorrow night!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Newsletter 29 October 2009

2009-10-29T10:49:00.000-04:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

29 October 2009

STILL WORKING!

It never ends. Fortunately.

While things aren't quite as intense as they were before the run, it's still pretty busy. Cleaning up afterward. Sanitizing the coolers before putting them away for the year. Figuring out where to put all the extra stuff that we keep accumulating. It's all fun.

The day after the marathon, we went to Founders for a get-together with our Boot Camp group. Gary VanDyken (lifetime runner) challenged my memory.

"Do you remember back in 2004 getting an email with the 'Top 10 Reasons Sandy should be allowed to run the half-marathon'? "

We filled up in 2004. We were at Millennium Park, so we didn't have the capacity for as many people. If people asked, I was trying to accommodate them--we even figured out shuttle busses from outlying lots. I'd usually say yes to any good story, with "You owe me a beer," thinking someday we'd get together for a beer somewhere. When I got that email, same deal.

The next day, as I was working at a coffee shop, Gary walked in with an application, cash, and a bottle of beer. OK, I'm liking this guy already. Bringing a bottle of beer wasn't what was on my mind, but it seemed like a really nice idea when it happened.

"I walked in and set a beer down on the counter."

DO I REMEMBER?!?! That moment changed my life! It was then that the tradition started. I put a note on the Race Day Instruction page to bring a bottle of decent beer along as a gift for the race director. It worked. That's where the tradition got started. Since then, runners from all over have brought beer. And since then, after every race we've had great micro brew from New Holland Brewery. It's a tradition. It's part of the fun.

And now, I know who started the tradition. Thanks Gary!!

Oh, by the way, last night I had a bottle of "Award Winning Home Brew" that someone brought me. No other note on the bottle. Whoever that was--thanks. It certainly was worthy of an award.

PICTURES

The pictures are in!! ASI Photo once again has your pictures ready for you. CLICK HERE

HALLOWEEN RACE

Hey--before you take the kids trick or treating, head out Saturday morning the 31st to Alger Heights neighborhood for a nice little 5K run. It's the first annual Alger Heights Halloween 5K. Info at Classic Race

AWARDS

Many of you speedy people didn't pick up your awards. We will be putting them at Gazelle Sports in Grand Rapids for you to pick up. It will still be a week or so. I'll post on the website and in a newsletter when they're ready. (It's taking a bit because we're separating the out-of-town ones to mail. People within a reasonable driving distance of Gazelle will be able to pick them up at the store.)

SHIRT EXCHANGE

SOCKS, HATS, EXTRA SHIRTS

We'll have some available on the web shortly at www.cooladventures.net/buystuff.htm.

Feedback Welcomed!

Running this weekend!

Check out the Halloween 5K above. Nice little race. You'll like the course throught the neighborhood.

Saturday night at midnight, a few people are running the half-marathon course. Costumes welcome. Meet at the Y at midnight Saturday night. Bring your own water bottle, headlamp, whatever. Plan to have some fun with a few of the staff and a bunch of friends.

Meanwhile, I'm doing a road trip to Huntington WV for the marathon down there.

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 16 October 2009 2 Days!

2009-10-16T12:03:00.000-04:00

Subject: Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 16 October 2009 2 Days!

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

16 October 2009 --- THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW

AND NOW, LIVE FROM GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN

(theme from Rocky playing in the background)

The preparation is over. The contenders from all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Germany are ready.

The leaves are turning. The bike paths are repaved. The numbers are painted on the road. The course is ready.

And now...live from Grand Rapids Michigan....

LLLLLET'S GET READY TO RUMBLLLLLE!

It's time to step into the ring. Step up to the line. The training is over. It's you and a few thousand of your best friends hitting the roads.

It's all about you now! You are ready. You're strong, you're amazing. You're about to do something that only a fraction of the population can or will ever do!

You are going to have the time of your life. This is your weekend. This is your race. This is your day! You're gonna be awesome out there!

A couple years ago, John Gonzales (Gonzo) asked me to give him a "Top 5" list. Here it is:

Don Kern's Top 5
5. Start out slower than you think you should -- It's easy to get caught up in the rush. Here in Grand Rapids, we have our Celebrity-Pace Pace Teams to help with that. You join a pace group and shoot for the same time as Oprah, P Diddy, George W, and other famous marathon runners.

4. It still counts if you have to walk part of the course -- Most people in the universe will never even think of covering 26.2 miles on foot. Crossing the finish line any way you can do it is still a major accomplishment.

3. Lubricate or tape everything that rubs -- It'll make those late miles (and the hot shower afterward) feel so much better. Try Sportwax, the official sports lubricant of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, available at our expo. (Gonzo here: Great advice, Don. I wish you would have offered this tip the day before my run with you guys!)

2. Learn to identify poison ivy leaves -- It helps to know, especially when you head off into the woods for a pit stop.

1. Don't worry! -- Your toenails will grow back.

Comments from my email:

I do know that I'm fit, I'm in shape and I'm gonna do this thing!

---

I'll for sure see you at the finish line
In all the races I have run, I have never had such a great pre-race experience. You obviously love what you do and it shows. Thank you a million times over for all your emails, your humor and your encouragement. I cant wait to thank you in person at the finish line.

---

Grand Rapids is the perfect home town marathon to qualify for Boston. You can't beat sleeping at home in your own bed (Holland) and drinking great beer (New Holland) at the finish.

Setup, the Expo, THE EVENT!

No newsletter tomorrow. A short run, then the expo. It's race weekend.

Between 4:30 and 6 today (Friday), if you're around I'm going to head out to the Hideout Brewery on Plaza Drive. Stop out and have a pre-race beverage with me.

RACE DIRECTOR COURSE PREVIEW

Join me Saturday at 2:00 in the big conference room on the first floor of the Y for a course preview. Or just stop by to shake hands and say hello. Can't wait to see all of you this weekend.

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE! The DAY AFTER TOMORROW!

(gonna fly now....)

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

The Schedule

September 26th
20 Mile Training Run hosted by Gazelle Sports

October 17th 9 - 6
Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pickup at the David D Hunting YMCA

October 17th Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon
Final 1.2 miles at 1:00 pm

October 18th Sixth Annual Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay

October 24th
Every Stride 5K/10K, and Metro Health Marathon Post-Race Celebration at Candlestone Golf & Resort

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Run a marathon
Get Free Stuff

Run 13.1 miles, 26.2 miles, or even a relay leg, and get ABSOLUTELY FREE:

A little tube of Aquaphor and a bunch of other samples.

A bowl of Wendy's Chili

An apple from Klackle Orchards

A bagel from the Bagel Beanery

Some Yoder's String Cheese

A beer from New Holland Brewery

Frozen Custard from Culvers

A really cool Brooks Podium Shirt

The experience of a lifetime!

*Some restrictions apply, as in this is only good at the Finish Line of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon
Offer Expires October 18, 2009

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon | PO Box 1041 | Grand Rapids | MI | 49501

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 15 October 2009 3 Days!

2009-10-16T06:22:00.002-04:00

Subject: Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 15 October 2009 3 Days!

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

15 October 2009 --- 3 Days!

Two quick things!
1. Yes, you can pick up a race packet for a friend.
2. NO. We don't have electronic tracking of any kind on the course. Your friend's won't get text messages or anything like that. (Anyone know who sponsors such stuff? Maybe we can do that next year.)

And now.... RELAX!

A good friend was going to run her first marathon a few years ago. I had referred her to the same hotel we were staying in, and when we went to her room, her fiance answered the door. She was sitting on the bed with a pillow in her lap. Her head down. She was crying.

Too much stress. All the things to remember. All the advice, the coaching, the books, the "experts" words swirling around in her head. Combined with the next day's venture into the unknown were overwhelming her.

-------

I jumped off a bridge in New Zealand. Don't worry. I was connected to a big rubber band. As I stepped off the platform into thin air, I discovered something in the next half-second. There was nothing I could do. Either I was going to die or I wasn't. After that, my mind totally changed modes and I was focused on the experience, the fun, the adrenaline, the sensations. IT WAS GREAT!!

-------

I hugged my friend, told her to relax. All that advice you've been listening to at this point is just extra noise. Either you've trained enough, or you haven't. It's too late to worry about that now. We went out to eat, relaxed, and enjoyed the moment. I saw her at the starting line, still a little nervous, but enjoying it. On the out-and-back course, I saw her, still on her way out, a couple miles behind me as I was heading back. She was smiling. Enjoying. I crossed the road and gave her a big smooch. She was having a great time.

Later as she crossed the finish line, I grabbed a medal from a race volunteer and put it around her neck. The tears of the day before replaced with joy. Her first marathon.

------------------------------------------

EVERYBODY HERE LOVES YOU

So, I said all that to make this point:

RE-FREAKIN'-LAX

You're ready. You've prepared. You've trained. And now, it's time for the fun. Feel the energy from the people around you. Find someone from the race staff in a red jacket and give them a hug. It's your day now. Enjoy everything about it.

Don't stress about parking. There's plenty. Don't stress about aid stations. They're well stocked, and they're ROCKIN'. Don't stress about portajohns. We have plenty. (Some of them look like big blue plastic boxes and have white toilet paper. Many others look like big plants with woody stems and have various colored toilet paper them.)

Everybody here loves you. We're all here to help. And YOU? You're gonna be awesome out there.

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

The 2009 NIKE+ Human Race at the Every Stride 5K/10K takes place next weekend (October 24th), last year the numbers surpassed 750 participants. Already this year, the numbers are well over a 1,1100. This is a great fall event to celebrate running the ½, full or relay marathon this weekend at the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon.

Registration is $18 and shirts are running low so it's a good idea to register soon before they are gone. Included in the $18 registration is your choice of 5K run, 5K walk, 10K run or run both the 5K&10K, a NIKE DryFit race shirt, a souvenir golf ball with the race logos on it, and a post race party pass into the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon and Every Stride 5K/10K post race party; it's a partnership between both races to offer an incredible post race party the weekend after the marathon at a nice cool down event. The party includes burgers, brats, chicken and desserts all included in the $18. There is also a Gazelle Sports Kid's Run for $5 with a 1 mile run, fun run, pumpkin decorating and candy scavenger hunt.

Wear your marathon shirt at the post race party and you have a chance to receive 1 of 2 free entries into the 2010 marathon. Plus, make it a great time to share your marathon stories. Register online at www.mirunning.com today.

Comments from my email:

While I am only running the half this year, I plan to check it out to run the full next year. I chose to come to GR for a couple of reasons:
We figured it would be a colorful drive from Chicago
The field was not too large (I ran the half in Chicago in September)
Hotels were inexpensive
My boss is from GR, so it is a good brown-nose tactic....

I have run Chicago 4 times (not this year) and, while I enjoyed the large race experience, I did not get the sense that the race director was approachable....

Tomorrow...it'll be two days.

It'll also be my last newsletter before the race. Get's pretty busy around here on Saturday morning.

Between 4:30 and 6 on Friday, if you're around I'm going to head out to the Hideout Brewery on Plaza Drive. Stop out and have a pre-race beverage with me.

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE! Only THREE days!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Run a marathon
Get Free Stuff

Run 13.1 miles, 26.2 miles, or even a relay leg, and get ABSOLUTELY FREE:

A little tube of Aquaphor and a bunch of other samples.

A bowl of Wendy's Chili

An apple from Klackle Orchards

A bagel from the Bagel Beanery

Some Yoder's String Cheese

A beer from New Holland Brewery

Frozen Custard from Culvers

A really cool Brooks Podium Shirt

The experience of a lifetime!

*Some restrictions apply, as in this is only good at the Finish Line of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon
Offer Expires October 18, 2009

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon | PO Box 1041 | Grand Rapids | MI | 49501

14 October 2009 --- 4 Days!

2009-10-14T12:53:00.002-04:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

14 October 2009 --- 4 Days!

MEDIA STUFF

Yesterday, we had everything booked perfectly. 9:00 with Joy Wellington on WOOD TV. 9:30 with Tony Gates at WRJR, one of our Citadel (Media sponsor) stations. 10:15 with my good friend Shelly Irwin over at WGVU. Tight, but doable.

At WOOD TV, they're experimenting with some new media stuff, so we were to record via Skype from the Y. Problem was that the Internet connection didn't quite work right with all the technology they were trying to use. By 9:15 I knew I had to leave. "Chris--you'll have to handle this one." I left him with four new marathon runners (Amy, Rina, Stacey, and Cheryl) to handle things while I headed over to Citadel studios.

Right on time. "Oh, we have you on at 9:45. Then we'll record another interview for WLAV after that." I had a blast with Tony in the studio. 10:00. Need to be at WGVU in 15. Gotta record an interview first. OK. 10:11 I walked into the elevator. I figured it would be faster to run the 5 blocks to Shelly's studio than to get my car out of the lot. At 10:17, I tapped on the glass, Shelly motioned me in and I sat down just one minute before she turned the mike on. My respiration and heartbeat returned to normal speed. Whew...

All around, it was a great morning. Chris and the girls handled things well (click here to watch), I managed to be on three different radio stations, and we went on with our day.

This morning, WZZM TV at 6:30. Good stuff.

WZZM Channel 13 this morning. CLICK

West Michigan Color Tour

Here are some fall colors for you:

Red - the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon staff, in red Brooks jackets with white stripes down the sleeves

Orange - Medical staff from Metro Health and Life EMS

Navy - Aid station captains and other race weekend leaders

Tangerine - The finest crew of volunteers in the history of running

And that brings us back to....

RED - With our "Victory in the Fall" logo in bright yellow. Your shirt, the race shirt, your badge of honor.

It's shaping up to be a colorful weekend.

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

The 2009 NIKE+ Human Race at the Every Stride 5K/10K takes place next weekend (October 24th), last year the numbers surpassed 750 participants. Already this year, the numbers are well over a 1,000. This is a great fall event to celebrate running the ½, full or relay marathon this weekend at the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon.

Registration is $18 and shirts are running low so it's a good idea to register soon before they are gone. Included in the $18 registration is your choice of 5K run, 5K walk, 10K run or run both the 5K&10K, a NIKE DryFit race shirt, a souvenir golf ball with the race logos on it, and a post race party pass into the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon and Every Stride 5K/10K post race party; it's a partnership between both races to offer an incredible post race party the weekend after the marathon at a nice cool down event. The party includes burgers, brats, chicken and desserts all included in the $18. There is also a Gazelle Sports Kid's Run for $5 with a 1 mile run, fun run, pumpkin decorating and candy scavenger hunt.

Wear your marathon shirt at the post race party and you have a chance to receive 1 of 2 free entries into the 2010 marathon. Plus, make it a great time to share your marathon stories. Register online at www.mirunning.com today.

Comments from my email:

Love your newsletters!! Don't make them shorter. Receiving and reading your e-mails is like a parent patting me on the back saying everything will be alright.

One of our Official Charities

myTEAM TRIUMPH (mTT) is proud to be an official charity of the 2009 Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon. Our biggest benefactor, the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, has provided complimentary entries, advertising & expo space to the value of $10,000 to make our participation in this event possible.

More exciting is the fact that we get to coordinate the participation of individuals with disabilities in the ½ & Full Marathon race who would otherwise not be able to complete this distance on their own.

For the complete press release, CLICK HERE

Let me tell you about Russ. (Or perhaps, Juice, Juice Everywhere, and Not A Drop to Drink.)

Russ is the guy who owns Advance Auto Service. He doesn't run much. But he does run power and phone lines out of his building for the START/FINISH area. I met him because his business is located where it is. Now, any time I have car problems, Russ is the guy I use. I trust him. He's always done a great job for me. Takes care of what I need and always seems to be able to squeeze me in.

Advanced Auto Service
www.advancedautoservicegr.com
300 Winter Ave NW, Grand Rapids - (616) 456-8522

Juice for Classic Race Management, timing the race. Juice for TJ the DJ. Juice for WRJR and their live remote broadcasting. Juice for my brakes, my windshield wipers, my engine. It's all coming from Russ. THANKS MAN!

Did you know, in Grand Rapids, avenues run north and south, streets run east and west. And you guys are running on streets, avenues, drives, boulevards, paved trails, and roads. And you're going to love all of them!

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE! Only FIVE days!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Have a Baby
Get a free
Entry

Here's a deal! Have a baby at one of the Metro Health facilities between now and October 2010, and get a FREE ENTRY for either the full or the half marathon at the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, 17 October, 2010

(Yesterday, I was told by Stephanie over at Metro that they really prefer that you use the OB ward at their amazing hospital. Also that she and Andy may just be taking me up on this offer.)

Still, the offer is good for any of their locations. :-)

*Some restrictions apply, but you're on your own to figure that out
A LIMITED TIME OFFER

myTeam Triumph Press Release

2009-10-14T09:01:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE: Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 2009 provides $10,000 in race sponsorship to myTEAM TRUIMPH, West Michigan to participate in their race.

myTEAM TRIUMPH (mTT) is proud to be an official charity of the 2009 Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon. Our biggest benefactor, the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, has provided complimentary entries, advertising & expo space to the value of $10,000 to make our participation in this event possible.

More exciting is the fact that we get to coordinate the participation of individuals with disabilities in the ½ & Full Marathon race who would otherwise not be able to complete this distance on their own.

For those of you unfamiliar with our organization, here’s a little something about us:

“Our passion for racing and our dedication to sport help us find ourselves, discover our strengths, overcome our weaknesses, and allow us to triumph! But what if for one day, it was not about us? What if just for a small moment, we put someone else’s triumph ahead of our own!

Enter myTEAM TRIUMPH! A non-profit organization started in West Michigan in March 2008 & dedicated to providing the ultimate experience in road racing and triathlon sport to individuals with disabilities. These individuals would otherwise never ever dream of entering a race, let alone get to experience the energy of packet pick-up, or the thrill of crossing that finish line. With myTEAM TRIUMPH, disabled participants get to do it all! They get to “Captain” a team of “Angels” through an entire race, guaranteeing them their moment of glory as they cross that finish line that so many of us just take for granted.”

Some details:

We have 6 Captains & about 70 Angels signed up to participate in this year’s race.

Our format for this event will be a 2-stage relay for the ½ Marathon & a 5-stage relay for the Full Marathon.

Each leg will be supported by 2-3 Angels; with up to 15 Angels per Captain. Angels take turns pushing the stroller throughout the race.

mTT takes care of all race logistics. THIS RACE IS ALL ABOUT OUR CAPTAINS. All Captains are registered for this event and will collect a race packet with a bib number & timing chip which only the Captain gets to wear. Angels will also be registered by mTT but will NOT wear a timing chip.

mTT will coordinate the transportation of Angels to the exchange zones.

All Captains racing with mTT will use the race strollers provided by mTT. This will help us ensure safety & control liability. Our strollers are “Baby Jogger Special Needs” strollers, and can accommodate up to 200#.

Our vision is to provide this experience to as many individuals as are willing to participate. We would like to see this spread across the state and around the country. A myTEAM TRIUMPH sanctioned event would mean that any participant with a disability would be able to participate in that event under the guidelines and umbrella of myTEAM TRIUMPH. This means that all the logistics surrounding that disabled participants participation in that event would be coordinated by myTEAM TRIUMPH. This is good news for the participant in that they can deal with one single entity. This is also good for the race director, as they in turn would not be able to worry themselves over the details.

Thank you for your participation. Please visit our website @ www.myteamtriumph.org to find out more about our organization and how you can be involved.

For further details, please do not hesitate to contact us at:

myTEAM TRIUMPH, Inc.

www.myTEAMTRIUMPH.org

12 October 2009 --- 6 Days!

2009-10-12T15:05:00.001-04:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

12 October 2009 --- 6 Days!

A FEW DETAILS...

PARKING--The DASH Lots 9 & 7 are located near the YMCA, along Seward Street and along Mt. Vernon. Come early and get a good spot. If you're staying at one of the downtown hotels, it's faster to walk than it is to drive and find a parking spot.

Showers--We have showers at the YMCA. If you want to get clean and dry and then come out for a bowl of chili afterwards, that's cool. Don't worry about getting kicked out of the food area, just wear your medal, we'll know it's you.

The VELOCITY CHALLENGED start is at 7:00. You'll need to pay special attention to course marshalls along Seward Street, as people starting at 8:00 will still be parking in DASH 9 lot. (And for those of you who are driving down Seward, PLEASE BE CAREFUL!!!)

CHILI and Ice Cream

Wendy's Chili. Just the thing on a cool fall morning (or afternoon) after a long run. Or, if you prefer, while you're still warm, we have Culver's frozen custard.

VISIT THE EXPO!

Yes, you can pick up your packet on race morning. Get there early. But...

Don't miss all the fun at the expo. Video from last year's race, 2:00 Race Director briefing & discussion. Lots of vendors with cool stuff. And, at 1:00, come out and see the kids run! They're amazing. They'll be running their final 1.2 to complete their 26.2 miles of running.

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

It's not only the Nike Human Race, and the Every Stride 5K & 10K! It's our post-race party! After a 5-day cooldown period following the marathon, join us out at Candlestone Golf and Resort for a great time. Wear your marathon gear, share your "war stories" and celebrate! Check it out at www.mirunning.com for more info. YOU CAN ALSO VOLUNTEER TO HELP if you like.

Plus, wear your marathon stuff--shirt, hat, socks, whatever, and get into a free drawing for one of two free entries to our 2010 marathon!

Home!

A nice weekend, a nice wedding, a nice run along the river by the falls. I managed to collect a beer glass from Ontario from the Niagara's Best Brewery. And on the way home, I jumped into a VERY COLD Lake Ontario, completing my quest to swim in all five Great Lakes! I only got in a couple strokes, but I did get completely submerged. Most of my body parts have returned to normal now.

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE! Only six days!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES

Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

The Schedule

September 26th
20 Mile Training Run hosted by Gazelle Sports

October 17th 9 - 6
Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pickup at the David D Hunting YMCA

October 17th Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon
Final 1.2 miles at 1:00 pm

October 18th Sixth Annual Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay

October 24th
Every Stride 5K/10K, and Metro Health Marathon Post-Race Celebration at Candlestone Golf & Resort

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Buy One Get One Free Chili	Buy One Get one free chili at most West Michigan Wendy's on Tuesdays. Wendy's chili is a great healthy fast food option: Large chili *280 calories, 9grams of fat, 21 grams of protein
*Wendy's will be giving out complimentary chili to GR marathon racers. Stop by our booth after you finish the race! A LIMITED TIME OFFER

Press Release 10-12-09

2009-10-12T15:02:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IDEAL RACE TEMPERATURES MAY BOOST PARTICIPATION IN METRO HEALTH GRAND RAPIDS MARATHON

October 12, 2009; Grand Rapids, MI – A record number of participants are already expected to turn out for the 2009 Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, scheduled for this Sunday, October 18. The weather forecast for race day could boost that number even more.
Ed Kornoelje, D.O., Metro Health Sports Medicine Physician and Medical Director of the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon, explains that the ideal running temperature for most runners appears to be between 45° and 60° F, which is what is expected on race day. Dr. Kornoelje says that the body “heats up while running, and operates optimally when the air temperature is rather cool, but not cold. If it feels a bit chilly at race time, this is a good sign.” He further states that depending on an individual’s own temperature comfort level, runners will wear anything from tights and a long sleeve shirt to shorts and a short sleeve shirt. “I recommend trying out a few different combos to see what works for you, keeping in mind after a mile or so your perceived air temp will probably be 15 degrees or so higher then the actual temperature,” says Kornoelje. Finally, runners should bring an old long sleeve shirt that can be discarded at the start of the race, or at an early aid station, since they will not get it back. “So make sure it is something you can part with,” explained Dr. Kornoelje.
Events start on Saturday with the Health and Fitness Expo, where runners pick up their race packets and have the opportunity to visit with various health and fitness vendors. The Expo will be held on the 3rd floor of the David D. Hunting YMCA from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. You won’t want to miss the Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon at 1 p.m. on Saturday, also at the David D. Hunting YMCA, when almost 1,000 children will run 1.2 miles on the official marathon course. On Sunday, race day morning, the “velocity-challenged” participants will begin at 7 a.m. The official start time of the Marathon is at 8 a.m., when more than 3,600 athletes are expected to participate. Runners from all 50 states are registered, as well as 80 participants from Canada, and some from Mexico as well.
Officials from the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon report that current registrations are up by 500 participants over last year’s number. “Our growth continues, says Race Director Don Kern,” and with the new course changes, we'll be able to handle many more for years to come.” Kern adds: “I’ll see you at the finish line.”

########################################################################

The Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon is in its 6th year and was created by “Marathon Don” Kern. Kern has run 184 marathons, including 80 consecutive months of at least one marathon per month. Kern is also part of a select few that have run on all 7 continents, and just a few years ago he narrowly missed inclusion in the Guinness Book of World Record for running official marathons on all 7 continents in the least amount of days. For interviews or additional information, please contact Don Kern at 616-293-3145 or cooladventures@aol.com. Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon can be found online at www.grandrapidsmarathon.com
Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon
Christopher Nicholas
Media Coordinator
Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon
P. 616-570-0602 F. 616-608-0294
chris@aaaadz.com
Don Kern
Race Director
Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon
P. 616-293-3145
CoolAdventures@aol.com

Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon 2009 Sept 21, 2009

2009-10-10T10:10:00.002-04:00

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The 2009 Bagel Beanery Kids Marathon

Bagel Beanery Grand Rapids Kids Marathon

Dear Runners,

Congratulations!

You're read to finish your training and become "real" marathoners this weekend. We can't wait to see you!

Here is some important information for Race Day:

Race Information

Saturday, October 17

1:00 pm

David D. Hunting YMCA
Packet pickup / Runner Check-in 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Note: Over 1,000 runners will be checking in during packet pick-up; please allow yourself enough time to check in and enter the runner chute.

Race Lineup 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm

Race Start 1:00 pm

Parking
Kids Marathon participants park, for FREE, in the GVSU Student Parking Garage on the corner of Lake Michigan and Winter. Parking will be open beginning at 11:30 am.

For packet pick-up, go immediately to the north end of the YMCA parking lot.
You DO NOT need to go into the YMCA.

Note: Over 1,000 runners will be checking in during packet pick-up; please allow yourself enough time to check in and enter the runner chute.

Packet Pick-up / Runner Check-in
Packet pick-up and start times will be broken up into groups alphabetically by LAST NAME.

Look for the animal that corresponds to your last name and follow the signs:
A-E    Rabbit
F-J     Cheetah
K-O    Horse
P-T     Ostrich
U-Z    Greyhound

You will line up by these animals for your starting heat.

Race Course
Runners will start on Winter Ave by the YMCA parking lot. They will then run to Lake Michigan Dr, North up Seward Ave, then turn left on Bridge St to run around the block back to Seward Ave to run the remaining course to the Finish on Winter Ave.

Runners will start in heats based on their last names (see above).
The course is out-and-back; kids start and finish at the same place.
Parents are welcome to run with their kids on the course.
For the safety of all runners, DO NOT stand on the course to take photos.

A Few Tips and Notes
Dress in layers. Rain or shine, you will be outside for packet pick-up and the entire race.

Wear a hat (especially if it's cold). 40% of your body heat can be lost from your head.

Port-A-Johns will be available at packet pick-up and the Start/Finish chute.

Post-race Refreshments
Post-race water and Gatorade will be available, along with healthy snacks such as bagels and apples. No water or aid stations will be set up along the course.

Inclement Weather Procedure
It is our goal to allow the kids to complete their marathons regardless of weather. However, safety will not be compromised when making a determination: we will cancel the race if there is lighting or other severe weather.

If the race is cancelled, we will post a notice on the website at http://www.grandrapidsmarathon.com by 11:00 am on Race Day. Runners can still pick up their race packets and t-shirts on Saturday at the David D. Hunting YMCA.

Sponsors & Community Partners
We could not put this event together without the support of our Sponsors and Community Partners. A great BIG thank you goes out to this year's sponsors.

Bagel Beanery
Metro Health
Gazelle Sports
Highland Group

Grand Rapids Public Library
Kent District Library
YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids

MyWay Mobile Storage
Gatorade
Gordon Water
Life EMS
Titan Equipment

Clif Bar

Klackle Orchards

Yoder's

Yoplait

GRKids.com

10 October 2009 --- 8 Days!

2009-10-10T08:59:00.002-04:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

10 October 2009 --- 8 Days!

EIGHT DAYS!!!

Darn Runners, anyway!

I get emails from runners around this time. "I have a bad case of Plantar Facitis." "I pulled a hamstring." "My doctor says I really can't run." And the best one from a couple days ago: "I just found out I had three stress fractures in my leg."

Do these people defer to next year? Do they drop out entirely?

NO. The next question is usually, "Can I switch my registration to the half?"

Usually followed by something like, "I can probably do that much if I just hop on one foot and stop once in a while to kill something for food along the way."

Runners are strong. Runners are determined. Runners are amazing.

PRETTY FUNNY

Jef Mallet registered on Thursday and put a bunch of comments in about Frazz, his comic strip. He also has a book coming out soon called, Trizophrenia -- Inside the Minds of a Triathlete. He sent me one of his comic strips. It's kinda funny. You know, like the stuff you normally read in this newsletter. Check it out below.

IMPORTANT PREPARATIONS!

You're reading the website. On the FAQ page, you'll find out what the official cutoff time is. You'll also find out the difference between an orange. (No, I'm ont putting links to specific pages in the website--go there and hover over the menu bar for a second and all kinds of options come up!)

RUNNING THIS WEEKEND

Terence is running the half-marathon course on SUNDAY at 7:30 with a few others if you want to run 13. There are a couple options that will cut it down to 10 or less if you want. There are also a bunch of guys running the half-marathon course at 8:00 Sunday too.

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

It's not only the Nike Human Race, and the Every Stride 5K & 10K! It's our post-race party! After a 5-day cooldown period following the marathon, join us out at Candlestone Golf & Resort for a great time. Wear your marathon gear, share your "war stories" and celebrate! Check it out at www.mirunning.com for more info. YOU CAN ALSO VOLUNTEER TO HELP if you like.

Plus, wear your marathon stuff--shirt, hat, socks, whatever, and get into a free drawing for one of two free entries to our 2010 marathon!

Notes from the Staff

From Kathy Haase, Packet Pickup - I sent Kathy the list of registered runners a couple years ago, and she sent me back an email. "I got the list, sorted it by race and alphabetically and printed it out." The first thing that came into my mind was, "How the heck did you do that? We don't even put race on the application form. Besides, we don't care what color or ethnicity anyone is."

"No, you idiot! By RACE, I mean either the Full or Half marathon!"

"Oh. Nevermind"

Kathy and her able partner, Tammy Zost will be there waiting ofr you on race weekend.

Off to Niagara Falls

The lovely Francine and I are in Niagara Falls where I'm told that you have to go a long way downriver to swim safely in Lake Ontario. I haven't given up hope yet, however.

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE! Only 8 days!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Buy One Get One Free Chili	Buy One Get one free chili at most West Michigan Wendy's on Tuesdays. Wendy's chili is a great healthy fast food option: Large chili *280 calories, 9grams of fat, 21 grams of protein
*Wendy's will be giving out complimentary chili to GR marathon racers. Stop by our booth after you finish the race! A LIMITED TIME OFFER

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon | PO Box 1041 | Grand Rapids | MI | 49501

Subject: Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon 9 October 2009 9 Days!

2009-10-09T08:58:00.001-04:00

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

9 October 2009 --- The Final Countdown Begins!

NINE DAYS!!!

The word from the trees: They're getting ready for you. The leaves all got together and said, "Hey, there's a bunch of really cool people coming out next weekend. Let's all look good and turn pretty colors for them. So far it's looking really great!

The new trails are amazing. And there's no 2-way traffic on the footpaths this year.

INDIANA vs. ONTARIO

I was asked for an update. Last year Ontario was kicking some serious Hoosier butt. This year it's the revenge of the Hoosiers! The score at the moment is 80 runners from Indiana, 62 from Ontario. Is Canada about to make a move here?

TIGERS vs. TWINS

Does anyone really want to talk about this?

IMPORTANT PREPARATIONS!

You're reading the website. On Race Day Instructions page, there's a very important item beginning with a "B" Do you know what it is?

RUNNING THIS WEEKEND

Terence is running the half-marathon course on SUNDAY at 7:30 with a few others if you want to run 13. (NOTE--YESTERDAY I THOUGHT HE WAS DOING IT ON SATURDAY--THIS IS A CORRECTED VERSION) There are a couple options that will cut it down to 10 or less if you want. There are also a bunch of guys running the half-marathon course at 8:00 Sunday too.

TOMORROW:

RUN THRU THE RAPIDS
The David D Hunting YMCA is the venue for our expo as well as the start & finish of the marathon. We're excited to be there another year. Something else you might like to know: 38 years ago, the YMCA service club started a marathon. Over the years, it changed venues, changed distances, the old guys got older and died (which old guys will do sometimes) and the younger guys have taken over. And this year is the 39th year they've put on a race. It's a 5K and 10K now, and it's coming up on Saturday the 10th. It's truly a Run Thru the Rapids too! Up and down the Grand on the River Walk. NICE!

Info at http://runthrutherapids.com All proceeds go to support YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

Plus, wear your marathon stuff--shirt, hat, socks, whatever, and get into a free drawing for one of two free entries to our 2010 marathon!

Notes from the Staff

From Rich & Syd, the Relay organizers - Remember that one person picks up all the race packets for the team. The shuttle bus schedule is in the race program, which is in your race pack.

Off to Niagara Falls

The lovely Francine and I are off to Niagara Falls where her oldest daughter Rachel is getting married this weekend. When I said I was going to jump in Lake Ontario to finish the 5 Great Lakes, someone suggested I should do the Atlantic and Pacific in the same summer sometime. Heck, I've done that in a month. Also, swam in the Antarctic Ocean and ran a marathon on top of the Arctic Ocean. I've seen the Indian Ocean from a couple different places but never been in it yet. Though I'm wondering why not.

Oh, did you know there are 10 microbreweries in and around Niagara Falls Canada? I wonder what a guy could do with that kind of information. Hmmm.....

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage

You can enter the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon for LIFE.

For $725, you get to enter the full or the half marathon for as long as we're still in business!

You'll get a permanent number, some extra swag, and the adoration of your fellow runners.

If you've already registered for this year but would like to upgrade, we can make that work too--just email me and we'll get it figured out.

Buy One Get One Free Chili	Buy One Get one free chili at most West Michigan Wendy's on Tuesdays. Wendy's chili is a great healthy fast food option: Large chili *280 calories, 9grams of fat, 21 grams of protein
*Wendy's will be giving out complimentary chili to GR marathon racers. Stop by our booth after you finish the race! A LIMITED TIME OFFER

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The Final Countdown BEGINS

2009-10-08T09:45:00.002-04:00

Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon Newsletter

Sponsored by Sportwax

8 October 2009 --- The Final Countdown Begins!

TEN DAYS!!!

It's physical. It's emotional. It's a life-changing experience. And it's all about YOU! Everything is coming together. The finish line, the course, the volunteers, the portajohns, the YMCA! We're almost ready for you!

AND

YOU are almost ready too! That last little bit of training. A nice, but not too long run this weekend. Your preparation is coming together. You're strong. You're fast. You're good looking.

CHECK THE FAQ, THE COURSE MAP, AND THE RACE DAY INSTRUCTIONS ON THE WEBSITE!!

If a runner falls in the forest and there's no one around to hear him, does he make a noise?

Is there anything special I should bring along for the race director?

What color are the shirts?

Where can spectators go on the course?

These and many other (mostly relevant) questions can be answered at grandrapidsmarathon.com

RUNNING THIS WEEKEND

Terence is running the half-marathon course on Saturday at 7:30 with a few others if you want to run 13. There are a couple options that will cut it down to 10 or less if you want.

Or, one of my favorites:

Now, you should be in your taper by that time, so a nice 10K tempo run up and down the banks of the Grand River is probably just about what you need that day. Plus, the race supports Camp Manitou-Lin, the YMCA camp just south of Grand Rapids. So, come out and run, get familiar with the YMCA, and have a great time.

EVERY STRIDE 5K & 10K AND the Nike Human Race

Plus, wear your marathon stuff--shirt, hat, socks, whatever, and get into a free drawing for one of two free entries to our 2010 marathon!

And now, for your reading enjoyment....

Here's something cool--the man known as Dr. Pickle Juice, also the founder of the world's only Celebrity-Pace Pace Team, is featured in an article that you might like. Click here

Off to Niagara Falls

The lovely Francine and I are off to Niagara Falls where her oldest daughter Rachel is getting married this weekend. Now is my chance to jump in Lake Ontario and complete my quest to swim in all five of the Great Lakes.

Can't wait to see you all at the FINISH LINE!

and the adventure continues....

Don Kern

Race Director, Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon

P.S. If you want to respond to this newsletter, change the subject line so I don't just end up thinking it's a bounce notice or something. Thanks!

In This Issue

Quick Links

Prevents chafing, promotes healing. A must for EVERY athlete!

TRAINING

OPPORTUNITIES
Gazelle Sports Training Programs

Marathon Adventures Boot Camp

Pepsi Bottling of West Michigan

Wright Chiropractic

My Way Mobile Storage