LISA'S 810 - STAGE TWO, DAY TWO 10:45 AM (PST)

LIVE UPDATE! Terry Madl called from the road to let us know that Lisa has come about 83 miles so far.

She and the crew went pretty much right through the night. Lisa got about 90 minutes of rest at 2:00 AM after her stomach started bothering her; apparently some cashews, which she is allergic to, found their way into her system. Update: Jay informs me that Lisa is not allergic to cashews and is in fact quite fond of them. Perhaps Terry said she had swallowed some "cat's shoes" and I mis-heard.

So for the past six hours her stomach has been a consistent problem, but she keeps going, with Sister Marybeth constantly at her side.

"Sister Marybeth is terrific" Terry said. "She'll take long turns out on the road and it does Lisa just a world of good."

Both Terry and Lisa also contribute the "re-opening" of the course to Sister Marybeth's crewing. According to Terry, "There were severe thunderstorms, they were going to close the route because of flooding... And then Sister said a little prayer - and bang!! We're back on course! It was incredible!"

So basically, Lisa is in pretty good hands. Above is a photo courtesy of Leigh Corbin, of Lisa coming into Panamint along side of George Velasco. And as anyone who has ever run with George knows-- when you're with running with George, you're running with someone who cares. George Velasco will give you the shirt off his back, followed by his socks, his shoes, the last of his water and a vital organ should you need it, and he'll do it while telling you a story about the Army Days just to keep you distracted. You would have to try really, really hard to feel bad in George's company.

It's 7:00 AM in the photo, which means they're hitting Panamint still ahead of schedule.

More details (and photos) to come.

LISA'S 810 - No Change for Badwater Route

The course shall remain the same, so sayeth Badwater Race Director Chris Kostman at exactly 10:36 PM PST, or.. approximately 1:30 AM New York time, where I had just finished posting My Big Scoop on the re-routing of the Badwater race course, complete with graphic. Dang.

Well, it was officially announced that they were going to "almost change" the course, but didn't. So cheers all around, L810 goes to Whitney!

Here's a shot of Lisa snapped by the race director himself, not long after Lisa's 10:00 AM start.

(Lookin' sharp in her Moeben sleeves)

ROUTE CHANGE - Badwater Course Flooded

While it may not be officially announced on their website yet, we have word from both Leigh Corbin and some other sources that due to flooding, the 31st running of the Badwater Ultramarathon will have to reroute particiants.

Reports from the road say that due to flooding on 395, runners will now turn around at mile marker 102 and head back down to Panamint Springs where they will finish the 135 mile course.

While this must be disappointing, I'm sure they recognize that there are simply some things that are out of the control of even the most talented runner & hardiest crew on the planet. They may not be able to change the weather, but that doesn't mean they're not still out there changing lives -- every step of Lisa's 810 is going to help feed, educate, shelter or heal someone, no matter which direction that step is going.

So stay tuned in and keep those comments coming in!

Bob & Lisa: In the Valley and on the Mountain

It wasn't long ago -- in fact, less than three weeks -- that Bob Becker, race director of the Keys 100, as well good friend and coaching student of Lisa's, stood by Lisa's side at the top of the Tetons surrounded by snow and clouds and talked about how much he was looking forward to his first Badwater Ultramarathon.

It was at the Dreamchasers Grand Tetons Camp, and I was in desperate need of distracting Bob & Lisa with some sort of activity. Should 3 minutes go by with their heart rate anywhere near the normal range, the two of them would suddenly break out into spontaneous circuit-training routines. They couldn't help it.

As I needed time to finish looking for the lung I had apparently left out on the trail somewhere, I asked Bob and Lisa both how they felt about the upcoming Badwater race. Happily, this distracted them from exercise for about 40 seconds.

STAGE TWO, DAY ONE - midafternoon update

I was only able to speak to Lead Crewmember Leigh Corbin for about 45 seconds today, but that was basically all I needed to find out how Lisa is doing.

Lisa is doing amazingly.

Lisa is an hour ahead of schedule.

How a person can smile after running 177 miles through bats and blisters is something my brain is having a hard time wrapping itself around, never mind having done all that and still having the Badwater Ultramarathon ahead of you.

But Leigh assures me that Lisa is just unstoppable. Also note that Leigh will have internet access tonight when she gets to Lone Pine, so all comments posted here will find their way to Lisa on the course.

More updates (and photos) as I get 'em. You can also check out the webcasts at the Official Badwater site, which also has some great snaps of Lisa and the gang.

LISA'S 810 - a message from the road

THIS JUST IN!

I've just received urgent word that I need to post this photo which apparently has some sort of "hidden message" encrypted somewhere inside it. Get your DaVinci Code hats on and try to decipher the important secret revealed somewhere within this seemingly simple shapshot.

There's a clue in there somewhere. I can feel it.

LISA 810 - stage one is finished!

After an incredible journey, crew leader Leigh Corbin had enough energy left to give us a full update.

"I am sitting in the crew van and it is almost 10 at night trying to get a signal. I am unable to get many pictures out becuse the signal is so weak. I happen to be listening to the rain pour down right now as I write.

Lisa is doing great. We finished stage one at 1:18 AM this morning. It was the first real night's sleep that we have had since we begun. My cell phone is no longer working so I can not send pictures that way.

Things were tough for Lisa as you would expect. Suffering is part of what Lisa does, and she dose it well. You would be hard pressed to find a woman as kind as Lisa. Even when in pain and struggling, she is always thinking of those around her. She is kind to everyone, even at 2 AM.

Lisa has handled herself like the pro that she is. Strong beyond words. She says that she would not have made it if it had not been for Sister Mary Beth.

Lisa has had some strange challenges while out on the course. One night she was attacked by a bat that had gotten caught in her hair. Last night just as the sun was getting ready to set, she was having hallucinations and thought she saw Indians climbing the mountains with no robes. This sent her into a silly spell and she did not even realize that the crew had put her feet into an icey water bath to cool them off and help to reduce the swelling. This is always painful but was done before she even realized it.

She has absolutely enjoyed the route that had been created for her to run. It was very scenic and beautiful. Early this morning as she touched the Badwater plaque where the race will start on Monday morning; she had great relief. She had done it and with few problems physically.

Her feet are in great shape and her stomach held out till the end where it started to give her a hint of a problem. She feels very determined and knows that many prayers will get her through, that and having Sister Mary Beth by her side. That is an amazing duo! Here is a picture of Lisa at the finish."

Thanks Leigh! Tonight I'll be posting a photo gallery of shots Leigh has sent me on the "updates" page of lisas810.com -- check it out!

July 10 - 11 - DAY 1&2 (2 entries)

JULY 11TH, 7:20 AM (PDT)

Just got a call from Scott. Well, it turns out the course is a little longer than we thought, but perhaps a just a bit more.


As you can see, Lisa's been running and trying to take care of her feet during the night.

Word on the street is that Sister Marybeth crews the way I nap -- with a natural-born talent for it. Here she is tending to Lisa. She's been a cook, a driver, a pacer and an overall trooper.

The crew anticipates that they'll be hitting Stovepipe Wells around midnight or 1:00 AM, and I'm sure they'll have more updates at that time.

SO LET'S HAVE SOME WORDS WAITING FOR LISA WHEN SHE GETS THERE!
If you leave a comment on the blog, I'll print them all out and fax them to Stovepipe Wells. I can't tell you how much getting messages from family and friends does for the spirits.

So limber up your fingers folks, and let's swamp this blog until the entire internet's just one big smokin' mess.

Updates as I get 'em.

JULY 10TH, 8:00 AM (PDT)

When I asked Terry how Lisa was doing, his answer was "I can't believe it-- she's fresh as a daisy!"

Lisa got on the phone, and had another take on it. While she was feeling good and didn't want to stop for too long she did have humongous blisters on her ankles; heat rash had set in, which it tends to do when the temperature hits pavement-melting levels.

We didn't talk long as she was eager to keep moving. Terry and I determined that she's nearly at the 60 mile mark, and just a few clicks shy of the Nevada/California border.

The donations are flying in fast and furious. Since the crew arrived in Las Vegas, over $4,000 have been raised, just online and in person-- that doesn't include the checks being mailed in to the Religious Teachers Filippini while Sister Marybeth is away!

So, not including those checks, we're around $280,000.00 for the AIDS Orphans. Because it only takes 4 cents to feed a child a full meal (hard as that is to believe in America) that means Lisa's raised enough money so far to feed 7,000,000 children. Amazing.

But it also means so much more than that. It's money that can help AIDS Orphans Rising continue their wonderful programs, such as my personal favorite, the "Pizza - Gelato Initiative". To find out all the amazing programs they run-- programs that you personally are involved in helping-- check out our About AIDS Orphans Rising page, and the AIDS Orphans Rising site.

More updates as I get 'em...

DAY ONE of the 810

And they're off...

The temperature at 9:00 AM was a balmy 90 degrees. By the time noon rolled around it hit 112 degrees and an "Excessive Heat Warning" was issued. Excessive Heat in the desert... who would have thought? Thank goodness for weathermen.

But Lisa and the crew are spiriting right along. By 3:00 PM (PSD) they were already at the 15 mile point, and when I asked Leigh what time she thought they'd be stopping for a rest, she said "Oh, we're going straight through the night."

The last update was at 6:00 PM -- and Lisa is in great shape and a happy mood, with appetite intact. Peanut Butter and Jelly seemed to be the big hit of the day, with one turkey and cheese with mayo thrown in.

I've been assured that where they are now the shoulders of the roads are nice and wide, allowing Lisa to give traffic a wide berth. There is a van with Lisa at all times, and an additional "crew van" which will stop some miles ahead and allow the "off crew" some downtime and a chance to take pictures of their feet.

Each van has a 6 foot banner on the side letting folks driving by know exactly what this tall blonde woman running alongside the road is doing. It also has all of Lisa's sponsors' logos on it, so everyone can see who helped make this possible.



AND YOU CAN CONTACT LISA!
All the comments to this blog will be printed out and faxed to Stovepipe Wells in advance of Lisa's estimated arrival there.

So everyone-- don't be shy... leave a comment to cheer Lisa on!

It's finally here! ...and so is the Today Show

Greetings, everyone-

I'll be subbing for Lisa while she's on the road from Las Vegas to Mt. Whitney, keeping everyone updated on her latest whereabouts.

As you can see, Sister Marybeth has arrived, and here she and Lisa are with the 810 Quilt. The quilt will be making the trip along with Lisa -- through the desert, up Mt. Whitney -- after which it will be auctioned on the Lisa's 810 Ebay site. Stay tuned.

As I write, Lisa and Sister Marybeth are giving a public lecture about "Running With A Purpose" at the St. Joseph Husband of Mary Catholic Church Parish Hall in Las Vegas -- in fact, the very spot that Lisa will set out from at 9:00 AM tomorrow morning.

And with her at the start of the 810 will be a crew from the Today Show and the local NBC affiliate in Las Vegas, KVBC. We don't know if they will be airing the piece live or at a later time, but we will let everyone know as soon as we receive word. For those of us outside of the Las Vegas area, we can watch the KVBC live at their website, http://www.kvbc.com.

So far there has not been any indication that Leigh has lost her kids' inheritance at the blackjack table, nor news of George having married a dancer from Cirque de Soleil. Hopefully they will make it until 9:00 AM tomorrow and leave Las Vegas as free of sin as when they arrived. Ahem.

And don't forget to check out www.lisas810.com to fly over the course Lisa's running and to get the latest news and, of course, to donate to help the cause. We're already at $240,000.00 -- help us reach the goal of $500,000.00!

-Marianne

All the bags are packed and ready to go!

Good morning!

Wow..it is here, deep breaths right?!!! I am ready, calm, at peace and the money is flowing in. God is so good and so are all of you.
Thank you all for your many wonderful emails to me, they are so appreciated. I will be thinking about each and everyone of you as you get ready for your own challenges this weekend, next weekend and for the future to come.

I am so looking forward to meeting most of my crew today in Las Vegas, George will pick me up Leigh is already there and Sister Marybeth will be right in front of me! Terry arrives by car this afternoon. Annemarie and Scott arrive on Tues. afternoon and Wed. morning 9am we are off.

Be sure to check out all the information on www.lisas810.com there is even a schedule!
WE NOW have a tracking device that we are going to use so you can see where we are all the time! How fun..my family is thrilled about this...

I leave you with a few quotes today to think about..

*There is a candle in your heart, ready to be kindled. There is a void in your soul, ready to be filled.
You feel it don't you? -Rumi

*Let nothing perturb you, nothing frighten you. All thing pass. God does not change. Patience achieves everything. -Mother Teresa

*What we are trying to do may be just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop. -Mother Teresa

*Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Chris Jesus. -Philippians 3:13.14

God speed to you all and Happy Feet

Lisa

Badwater and beyond!!!

Leaving for Las Vegas! I am ready but have yet to start packing:) I am working on training schedules for my students and spending time with my kids. I feel so calm, at peace and very much looking forward to what lies ahead of us.
I had a great bike ride on Friday with my daughter Annabella while Jay pulled our daughter Gabby. What fun:) I am going into this run feeling like a butter ball turkey:) In 2006 I felt I got way to thin by the end and my energy was low. This time I will start out heavy and hope it will hold me through when the going gets tough, at least I hope so.

It is near to impossible for me to thank all the amazing people who have come on board to help this project become a reality. From my wonderful husband, my children, extended family, friends, students and so many people I have yet to meet. My very kind and generous sponsors, the devoted people who worked on the web sites...it is endless the time, effort, energy and love that has and will continue all the way through Oct. into this project. From the heaven, the stars and the moon and back I love you all and thank you all so very much.

I will run in the memory and to honor all the women and children. I will run for you and me my friends, I will run for life!
My good friend Stephanie passed away on June 1st from breast cancer, I was not able to see her before she move onto eternity. I will run so much in her memory and honor all she did to help this World be a better place for she is my hero in so many ways!!!

It really is one of those days where I sit here and really can't believe that in less than 48 hours I will be in Las Vegas getting ready to start our 2008 project!

As of today since May 1st, 2008 we have raised close to $240,000!!! Our goal by Oct. is $500,000. Wow..how thankful are we for the love, support and belief to each of you for without this it would not be possible.

Please pray for us along the way that we have a safe journey from Las Vegas to the summit of Mt. Whitney. Please follow along on the www.lisas810 web site and blogs and take time to send me a blog post..trust me when the going gets tough and it will hearing from you will get me through the extra miles!!!

Some great news:) Sister Marybeth who has inspired me for many years and who is on the 810 crew for the run and the bike will be coming to the Tetons in Aug. to run the Grand Teton marathon on Aug. 31st. After she completes the marathon and before the awards ceremony Sister Marybeth will be giving a presentation on "running for a purpose and or sporting for a purpose." Really to help us all know that small acts of kindness do make a difference, we can and do all make a difference.

I hope you will consider coming to the Tetons races, run a race, volunteer and be part of the action! http://www.tetonraces.com/

When you have a few moments take a look at the updated web site! http://www.lisas810.com/

FOR JUST THE DONATION PAGE:http://www.active.com/donate/lisas810

We now have on-line donations set up and we will have a "live tracking device" so you will be able to see where we are all the time!!!If you feel the love pass on the web site and the information to other's.

If you are not on our mailing list to receive our Dreamchaser newsletter you should think about signing up:)

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER!!!http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/doac/doac_contact.htm

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much". DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE!!!

Check it out:)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edsB_aqUPOM

I will think about each and everyone of you while I am on the road, I will be thinking and supporting the things you are striving to do as well.

God Bless and love you
Lisa
p.s. There will be many updates on the blog and web site starting Monday as we all arrive in Las Vegas!!!!

Grand Teton Running Camp and More!!!

What a week we had last week at our GT Running camp. We had people from all over here in the Tetons. The weather was amazing, sunny and hot each day.
The camp ended on Sunday but then myself and 6 others did a 6 hour workout up and down the Teton pass..6.2 miles one way with close to 2,500 feet gain each time up! It was 96 degrees and hot. Great soak in the "very cold" snake river and today I have fresh legs! The ice cold baths work for recovery. I personally feel great about my run that will start next Wed. July 9th in Las Vegas..
http://www.lisas810.com/
I have some extra weight on me for this run which I feel is a good thing:) When I did the 300 miles in 2006 I lost to much weight so going into this a bit heavy will help me move faster, at least I hope so. The team is so excited and me to! I hope you will follow along and when the going gets tough and it will I will draw on all of you and how inspirational you all are to me!

Here is the link to a fun web site/blog and an interview with me about the 810! Thanks for checking it out.
http://proofpositivity.blogspot.com/

Guess what? Dreamchasers is bringing on board coach Matt Hart! Following soon will be more information about this but needless to say we are thrilled! Matt was a guest coach last week and it was wonderful to have his happy energy, amazing knowledge and experience.

We would like to thank Dusty for coming to camp and being such a great helper and inspiration. We look forward to more fun with you Dusty.

Ok..here are the 2 blogs for you to go and look at for some great photos and information on just how fun the camp was. You all were missed and we hope to see you at the next one!

Matt Harts blog
http://coachingendurance.com/blog/blog.shtml

Dusty Hardman
www.addisonssupport.blogspot.com

A VERY BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FRIEND AND STUDENT JIM SIMONE!!!
Jim just completed his ride across America!!! A long time dream for Jim is not complete.
I spoke to Jim soon after he finished the ride and it brought me to tears. It will take some time for this to sink in for Jim but we want to know how proud we all are of him!!!
Check out his site, it is not to late to make a donation.

http://www.harborhousedv.org/rideforshelter.htm

Have a beautiful week
Lisa

Note to Western States Runners

Hello,

Colleen here. I am writing on behalf of Lisa and Jay, who are up at Targhee hosting this week’s Ultrarunning camp. Boy do I wish I was there!

At any rate, I know so many of you – runners, crew members, pacers, and family and friends who supported Western States dreams this year - are so disappointed about the cancellation of the event. The Race Organizers have made a very responsible decision and we hope that conditions improve in the area for everyone’s health and safety.

Lisa and Jay would like to offer a discount to those runners who are now deciding upon a new race to which you can apply your health, fitness and training.

SPECIAL OFFER
From now until July 31 (or earlier, if we meet the maximum number), the Grand Teton Races will offer the following discounts to those who cannot participate in Western States this year:

$65 off to the first 30 to register for the Grand Teton Races 100 Mile Race

$15 off or the first 20 to register for the Grand Teton Races 50 Mile Race


HOW TO APPLY
Please send an e-mail to jay@dreamchaserevents.com Jay will respond to you on or after Sunday, June 29th (when the Dreamchasers Running Camp has concluded).

Please be sure to include your name and the distance (GTR 50 or GTR 100) for which you would like to register in the subject of your e-mail.

Jay will respond and provide you with complete instructions for registering online with the appropriate discount code.

And two special shout-outs:

Meredith…we love you!!!!!!!!!!!!! And are thinking about you!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Georgie: Happy Birthday, George Velasco! We love you, too!!!

My own training and other Dreamchasers...wow!!!

Happy Monday to you all!

MY TRAINING

I had a good week of training and was able to get close to 20 hours on my feet and on a bike. Some great long climbs:)

My new bike training is on my mountain bike with my 5 year old Annabella on her tag along right behind me and we now are able to hook the chariot up so I can also pull Gabby our 2 year old. I would love to thank all the people who sit around and design all the wonderful ways that us parents can come up with to bring our kids along on our training runs and rides! No excuse!!! Jay is happy because this means we can all go as a family. He can pull the girls while I ride or he can ride and I can pull the girls.

Annabella yelling go mommy go, catch up to that truck!!! Wow how thankful are we:)

BIG HORN
It has been a good few weeks for so many friends and fellow Dreamchasers.We are still waiting for the results to come up on the Big Horn web site but I have spoken to or emailed with some!Ronda was 1st women...we don't know her time as of yet...But yeah...great race!

*Katherine Dowsen friend from town was 2nd overall for the women in here first 100 at Big Horn!

*Olga was 3rd women!!! With a PR of 3.5 hours!!!! Yeah, you go girl..I am sure Olga will have a great race report on her blog very soon.http://runmoretalkless.blogspot.com/

*Michele was 4th women overall and said she had a great time even with her bad feet!!! Way to stick with it Michele you continue to inspire us all.

*Our buddy Laurie was on an amazing pace in the 100 when at 68 miles she felt very sick and about passed out…ended up with a fever and like I told her..MTRC..she made the right choice when she had to call it a day. What a great attitude she has...she will be back. Told me today that her stomach muscles are so sore from all the laughing she did once she felt better from her crew!! Live to race another day!

*Mike Evans ran to the finish line with Michele and was 1 hour ahead of what he wanted..27 hours.. Nice going Mike…we are very proud of you…and your crew Chandler and Erika!

*Katy Cotton ran the 50 mile race in just over 13 hours...Katy…the one you always see running with a smile!! Great going Katy!

We are still waiting for the Bighorn results to be posted on the web site but we spoke to our friend Matt Hart who is coming to our training camp this week here in the Tetons and he WON the 50 mile race...check out his blog post.http://coachingendurance.com/blog/blog.shtml

WESTERN STATES
Mike Waridan running Western States this weekend....How will it go?Read his blog post!!! http://runningtimes.com/blog/?p=81

OHIO 50 MILER
Frank Fumich runs 50 mile in Ohio:) well done Frank!

Hi Lisa: The race went REALLY well. I did pretty much exactly as you said, except when you said from mile 15-30 to try to run up half the hills...well I was feeling so strong a lot of them I ran all the way up...not the super long ones...but any smaller ones, I just went the whole way up at points. I felt great up to about 37 miles and then started to feel it a bit. But with about 13 to go, I was at about 7:45 and really wanted to break 10 hrs. Never thought originally that I would have a chance, but once it was in position to ....so from about 13 to go until about 3.7 to go, I ran the whole thing (with the exception of a couple steep hills that I power walked the upper portions) and there was a lot of ups...At 9.1 miles, I had 90 minutes until 10 hrs and so for the 1st 60 minutes I ran almost all of it which included some serious hills and couldn't believe I was getting to the top without walking...then I got to 3.7 miles to go but only had 30 minutes and it started with a big hill and so I just couldn't quite do it...and when I knew I wasn't going to break 10, I sort of eased up a bit and made it in 10:15....tied for 11th place out of about 50.On the very last steep downhill, (and I took it easy) I finally felt my quads sort of go, and I woke up to SUPER sore legs and my feet are really sore...and kind of my right ankle...but nothing is swollen and so I think it's just sore from the pounding but no big deal hopefully...but I was really pleased with how I did. It was the VERY FIRST time when it was ME that was actually passing people, powerwalking UP hills...that was a whole new experience...and not a single person passed me from mile 21.2 and I passed a lot of people doing both the 50 and 100.!!! Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RIM TO RIM GRAND CANYON
**Congrats to Ted, Jeff, Ed and Thomas for there 47 mile rim to rim at the Grand Canyon! One hot hard run!!!

KAYAK COMMUTING
**Jeff Grant: you have to read one of his new favorite workouts and check out his blog!!!

Lisa,Did lots of paddling the past two weeks, including my first ever kayak commute to the office. It was perfect, 15-minutes of rolling the kayak down a steep hill, 1 hour of paddling to within two blocks of work, a short carry to the office, a long day of work, a short carry to the water, and hour long kayak home, and then a steep walk back up the hill pushing the kayak. I loved it! Also did the long rides and crossing-training during the week. JEFF..THAT IS SOME WORKOUT!!http://hillseekers.blogspot.com/

WELL...THIS WEEKEND IS WESTERN STATES AND THE LINE UP is amazing...it is going to be so fun to follow. Dreamchasers has several running and we will be with you every step of the way!!! Eat, drink, hydrate and keep on movin!

TEAM SMITH / PEARL IZUMI
**Last but not least...I am honored to say I have been asked to be part of the Team Smith/Pearlizumi!!! Thank you Aric and that you Smith, Pearlizumi, Body Glide and Nathan!!!Check it out…http://www.teampearlizumi-smith.com/

TETON ULTRA RUNNING CAMP
We have a sold out training camp this week here in the Tetons!! I will be posting lots of fun photos and reports. Hope you can join us for the next one.Guests are Matt Hart and Laurie Andrews....watch out!

Have a wonderful week and stay tuned

:)

www.lisas810.com





Marie Boyd the race director of Bishop High races! Trains with her 2 year old babies!!!

Sandy Powell!!! Read her amazing story!
Surgeres, France – 48 hour race……………

by: Sandy Powell

I sit quietly reflecting on my second visit to Surgeres, France and think about reaching my goal of running over 200 miles. I was invited back to run in the world-class 48 hour run on May 16-18, 2008. The thoughts that consume me are so numerous and the experience is just like a dream. It begins with an invitation to participate and then from there you are treated like an Olympic Champion. When we arrived at Surgeres train station, having traveled almost three hours from Paris, the race director and his crew met us and transported us to what would be our home base for the next six days. We stayed at the same hotel as last year and it was so wonderful to see the owner and his wife again. Like others, we met up with some of the same runners and it was fun to share stories about the past year and catch up on what was happening in our lives.

The whole town of Surgeres is involved in the success of this race! The business people had a big celebration downtown on Thursday evening to meet the athletes and welcome us to Surgeres. Afterwards, we went to the Hotel Gambetta for a pre-race meal that was just what people say about French food – out of this world! We departed that evening to begin our preparations for the race that was to begin the next day at 4:00 PM. (Rain or shine)

I began my day planning and preparing my crew about all the “things” they would need to do for me as I began this 48 hour journey. I must say and would say a thousand times over, I could not have made it without my crew. My husband, Ben, my sister, Cindy and her husband, Dan Clymore have been there for me the past two years. We went to the race site and readied my camper for the everything I would need for the next two days. (Each athlete has their own camper/table/chairs to use throughout the race.) I felt content that we had made all the preparations so we went to the luncheon and then participated in the “Parade of Athletes”. Each athlete is introduced and then your national anthem is played. I think at this moment I am so honored to be invited to this race but more importantly I am so honored to be representing the USA. Shortly, thereafter the race begins and off we go around and around the 300 meter track for two days. We switch directions every six hours and each time you pass the scoring table you wave to your lap counter so they can record your lap. I had the best lap counters – they cheered me on and were so encouraging especially during the downpours of the continuous rain.

During my first 24 hours I followed my race plan. My coach, Lisa Batchen, told me to be patient. Do not follow the crowd – run your race! Of course, if you look at the leader board I was doing just that – being patient and waiting until the dawn of a new day to move out and start moving up the leader board. The first 24 hours of running for me had been fairly consistent. I was eating/drinking and experienced no problems. At hour 24, I took a short break to change clothes, shoes (my faithful and best shoe the INOV_8 F -Lite 335) and just rest a few minutes before I started the second half of my race! I am over half way finished this race I thought – and that was a good feeling. The second day would prove to be very interesting as I began to move up and started to pass people that on the first day left me way behind. Again, I focused on my goal and what I needed to do each hour. Into the second night proved to be a challenge as I experienced some problems with my knee but after my crew’s help and prayers I was able to get back in sync and kept adding laps to my total mileage. The second night when we had the worst rain storm there were about only six of us that stayed out and ran all night. We accumulated some valuable miles even in the downpour. As daylight came, I was revived and was eager to add more miles and finish the race. I kept watch on the leader board and stayed with my plan! I ran steady and moved up to fourth place and held that place until the end. I was also glad that Phil McCarthy from New York was there to run and represent the USA as well. He did a great job by placing third in his first 48 hour race.

The race was over and the feeling of just being able to run in this race and be a part of this festive weekend in Surgeres, France was more than words can describe. The support and help that you receive is just unbelievable! I love this race and really do enjoy the experience of running 48 hours! I reached my goal of 201.5 miles and look forward to the next race! I know that I want to go back because there is no other race experience like the 48-hour race of Surgeres. I want to add a thank you to my sponsors: INOV-8, POWER BAR and RIVERHEADS RURITANS.

NEW BABY IN TOWN!

Ray and Kathy Zahab are new parents!!! Mia Sahara Zahab came into the world last week.

We have all warned Ray about the sleep deprivation and how wonderful it is to be a parent!

Kathy...looks so beautiful, does she not after just having a baby!!

Welcome Mia!!

Had to share this photo below of Mia with her Canada visor on!!! Go team Zahab!

My 810 Miles to save the kids!!!!

Not 810 miles on foot but in many ways I wish it were on foot:) I am so confident on my feet...
302 or more miles on foot, 508 miles on a bike..or 2 bikes but not at once!!!

I one of the very blessed ones that wake up each day and know what I am to do with my life. I wake up and ask God what he has in store for me each day and move forward. Many days I can't accomplish all I would like to but like my friend Donna has told me and I now tell you..at the end of the day it is enough. What you have done at the end of the day is enough!!!

For many years I have been raising money for Aids Orphans and God willing for many more years I will continue to do so. each day when I wake up my goal is to be a great wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, coach, mentor, motivator and humanitarian! This is good amount of things to try to be great at but I will keep trying! :) Being a great runner or athlete is not important to me any longer it is what I can do as an athlete, what I can do on this earth to leave my mark, my legacy for my children and those to come.
For all the children of the World..red, yellow, black and white..I RUN FOR YOU!!!

How do you want to be remembered? How do you want to leave your mark?

I was not going to be running Badwater this year I was going to be running across America with my friend Louise. We ended up postponing this until 2010 and the run is turning into something more extraordinary that we had thought it would be. The reason for postponing came mostly from me. This is a run where you need nailed down sponsors, crew and a great deal of support. I wanted to do it the right way and not just do it. My family is the most important to me and my 2.5 year old would be to young to take this year and in 2010 she will love it. What an education for my kids and a chance of a lifetime!!!
So...I just could not seem to let this idea go of doing something this year when I got a phone call from my friend Sister Marybeth Lloyd that she was going to be able to crew for me at Badwater this year. Well..I was not going to BW and has 2 days to get my entry in and I did and I was excepted.

The end of March I was out for a run and I always say God talks to me and he does!
Lisa..not just BW do something more and really try to raise a great deal of money for the kids since Sister Marybeth will be on your crew this year...Do something different. That day I spoke to my good friend Ray Zahab and told him what I was thinking and he said no...
You should do a true point to point..Las Vegas to Mt. Whitney along with the Badwater race.
Wow...I loved this idea right from the start and got my Badwater crew to think about it and Sister Marybeth to pray about it..and she emailed me and said "YES LISA, WE ARE TO DO THIS!!!!"
The great news is I was excepted to the Furnace Creek 508 mile bike race in Oct.
Last year I had to pull out at 400 miles, this year I will see the finish line with doing many things different.

302 miles on foot, 508 miles on bike, 1 women, 2 legs to save the kids!!!!

I ask you to take a few moments and check out our web site.

http://www.lisas810.com/
The press release is there and we have already since May 1st raised over $135,000!!!!

On July 9th we will start at 9am in Las Vegas and run to Badwater and then on Monday July 14th I will be in the 10am starting group of the race.
The 810 web site and my blog will have many, many updates along the way and the 810 web site is going to post the course map and more information in the next few days. we are also setting up a way to donate on line so stay tuned.!!! As you know..we can all make a difference with one small act of kindness..you do make a difference.

"ALONE WE CAN DO SO LITTLE, TOGETHER WE CAN DO SO MUCH."!!

NOW...I Challenge you to send the 810 web site to 10 of your friends and ask them to send it to 10 of there friends..this is how it works, this is how we can change the World, ONE at a time..!!!
I believe this, do you???


Here is the support we have gotten so far and I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart!!!

Peak.com

http://www.peak.com/DreamchasersOutdoorAdventureClub/blog/364/

Primal Quest
http://www.ecoprimalquest.com/wp-primal/pq-news-archives/

Here is the link to the story on GodBlessHumanity.com


http://godblesshumanity.com/articles/?p=121


Sister Marybeths Web site

http://www.aidsorphansrising.org


Take a good hard look at this and you tell me if it is not worth your time, effort and energy to reach out and help us with this project. This will blow you away..it did me!
http://www.ireallyshouldbewriting.com/810/map-flash.html


I leave you with this today..we all ask, what can I do today...what can I do today to make a difference. Well you can help us and if you would like to know more please email me
at lisa@dreamchaserevents.com

God Bless and Many Thanks
Lisa and team 810

Crazy weather at the races!!! Tell us about yours?

Check out this course:) It is the Great Wall of China Marathon that a student Sergio ran!!!

Wow, last weekend hit hard with so many races and many were forced to not complete the race or they gutted it out with sheer determination. The drop out rate was not due to not being ready of being in shape it was due to hot and humid, mud, snow, sleet, hail, rain, freezing temps.,

thunder, lighting, tornadoes!!!!

I sit in awe as I read the many race reports from the weekend.

All the way from San Diego Cailf. to Wisc. things were a real mess.

The good news is there will be other races and you will have another chance at your 50 or 100 miles!!! The Tetons waits for you the end of Aug. the field of runner's is getting exciting!

http://www.tetonraces.com/

Here is an email from a student who did the WORLD OLYMPIC DISTANCE TRI. THIS PAST WEEKEND...CRAZY STUFF!

Dear Lisa,
Thank you so much for your help and advice.
It was an amazing event. It was super well organized.
However it was cold and rainy.
The water was 59 degrees and super high swells and white caps.
Right after my wave took off they canceled the swim. The water was too
rough and cold.
One girl suffered hypothermia and had to be life lighted to the
hospital.
Some had to be lifted into boats.
I felt really bad for the men; none of them got to do the swim.
But I loved the swim. After my hands and feet and forehead went
completely numb I didn't feel anything any more.
The swells were a blast to go up and over them. I was laughing under
water.
I was 10th for the US out of the water.
Anyway I feel really good about the whole thing.
However I was really happy with my performance. I did the best I could.
I ended up placing 12th for the United States and 28th in the world in
my age group!
Cheers,
Julie

NEXT: Our Jim Simone who is riding his bike across the USA...wow..last weekend and now they have had some weather issues as well. Go Jim Go!!!

Lisa,
I'm currently in Great Bend Kansas- tomorrow we are heading off to McPherson Kansas- than to Abiline- and a rest day-
So far we have raised $15,775.00- but the fund raiser continues- so people can still donate their tax deductable contribution to Harbor House at www.harborhousedv.org

We have had a lot of head winds- we are in the 20th. day of this ride and we have had headwinds everyday except 3- in the mts. we had winds 35-40 mph with gusts up to 60mph- but at least this makes for interesting days-

The desert (Mojave) was beautiful- the Mts. stunning-the Plains (Tx., Oklahoma and Kansas-) are flat and windy-
This trip really is about team work- many times I've felt like bagging a day and taking the ride- when someone would reach out and get me going again-
A great example was today- as I pproached the 2nd. SAG stop at mile 50 I really was feeling beat p- after 50 miles of headwinds, avg. ride speed 11 mph- I was ready to bag the day- I ran into Rich and Darell- now I'm not a very experienced bike rider- I had never rode in a pace line- they taught me how to ride a pace line and draft and we just burned up the final 36 miles-

Physically I feel pretty good- my butt is a little sore- but mostly I feel good- the psychological aspect- just like any ultra- is the toughest- to get up day after day and do it again- to have those tremendous.
Thanks for the great coaching.
Jim


IT WOULD be so great if all of you who are reading this would post your race story from this past weekend!
Mine..well I was in a can driving for 2 days while many were going through all of this!
We are now back to the Tetons and thrilled. We were met by good friends when we arrived with dinner and they helped us un-load the truck. Its good to be back, really good.

Much love
Lisa

10 ways!!!

Our Annabella won the most creative award at school...her art work in really amazing!

Annemarie and Lisa on Mt. Lemon! George at the top of Mt. Lemon!

Hi friends,

It has been some time since I have done a blog...life is full for all of us. The great, the good and the not so good. We are in the process of moving this week and as anyone might know this is hard work. We pack and move our self but have had the good fortune of friends to come and help.

George has been here back and forth from Calif. a few times in the past week! Annemarie has bent over backwards to help with our kids even though having 2 of her own to take care of.

We are thankful for good people in our life.

Training is going ok..not great but I feel good and strong. I am in the do what you can when you can place and this is ok with me:) Has to be.

George and I got to the top of Mt. Lemon which is 27 miles up hill...we went 19 miles up and then 2 down and then Annemarie picked us up. This was great. Some time on the bike and the rest of the time packing, and working.

Sister Marybeth sent this to me and I think it is worth sharing..I really enjoyed it.

Have a great day

Lisa

10 Ways To Raise Your Vibration
By Aine Belton http://www.miraclemanifestingprogram.com/

Below are some timeless tips that will help you raise your vibration to enhance your manifesting success and connect more to the radiant truth of your being and the bountiful nature of reality.

1. Take ResponsibilityAs James Allen says, "Circumstance does not make a man, it reveals him to himself'. The more you take responsibility for your life, the more you are able to change it. Responsibility is freedom and empowerment. Become conscious of the thoughts, feelings, beliefs and attitudes that are creating your world. Take responsibility for them and choose those that serve you and your world.

2. GratitudeGratitude opens your heart and connects you and aligns your vibration to that which you feel grateful for and as such attracts more of the same into your life. It is a way to give (in its appreciation) and receive (by the opening and expansion of that giving). The more you value and appreciate something, the more there will be to value and appreciate.

3. TrustTrust takes you towards happy desired outcomes in a magical, effortless way. Trust yourself and your power as a creator. Trust the universe and the gifts it wishes to bestow open you. Trust the doors that are opening and those that are closing. Relinquish control and allow yourself to be carried along the river of trust that will take you to your goals with grace and ease.

4. Suspend judgmentJudging others or yourself lowers and constricts your energy and separates you from love, truth and joy. It is a way of making yourself superior and above another by making them 'less than' or 'wrong'. It can be a way you deny your own self-judgments by projecting your guilt onto another. The more you love and accept yourself, the less you judge others. We all make mistakes. Seek to forgive, love and understand both the one you are tempted to judge and any potential shadows within you that they are reflecting.

5. MeditateMeditation allows a calm and balanced perspective to be reached and negativity to wash away and dissipate. It creates a gateway through which you can access higher states of consciousness and connect to the love and wisdom of your Higher Self. Meditation returns you to a place of clarity, truth and peace and allows your energy to clear, align, balance and recharge.

6. Honor your emotionsHonor your emotions and listen to what they are telling you about what's going on inside. If they are negative or uncomfortable what thoughts or beliefs are they pointing to that may need changing or aligning? Express and release your feelings rather than deny, repress, control or judge them. This doesn't mean wallowing in them or giving them undue attention if they do not serve you (i.e. nip that self-pity in the bud!), nor does it mean venting at someone inappropriately (writing a letter and burning it would be far 'cleaner'). Honour your emotions by accepting them and allowing them to be released.

7. Know you are lovedYou are loved totally and unconditionally by the source of creation. There is nothing you need do to win that love and nothing you can do to lose it. Becoming aware of this truth connects you to your inherent value, increases your sense of worth and deserving, heals pain of separation and loneliness and opens you to the love that is there for you in every moment.

8. Forgive yourself and othersForgiveness of self and others is the ultimate mind-body-soul detox. It liberates you from whole clusters of toxic emotions and sets you free from draining attachments. It can also set you free from feelings of guilt, shame and undeserving that block you from happiness and success. In forgiving another you are also forgiving yourself. It is an immensely powerful force for healing and transformation and a most gracious gift you can give yourself and another.

9. Have funFun will attract success into your life like iron filings to a magnet. It is the antidote to stress, struggle, tediousness and seriousness. When you are having fun you are open and sharing of who you are and ride on the current of spontaneity and joy. What brings you fun, happiness and joy? Commit to more of it in all areas of your life!

10. Love, Love, Love!Love yourself and others. There may be times this is easier than others, but make it your overriding intention. Love lies at the heart of all that you seek, and separation from it lies at the root of your troubles and pain. Let love be a guiding light in your life that will steer your ship through stormy waters back to the shore of truth, happiness and joy. We all love to love and be loved! It doesn't get better than that! It is the highest vibration there is. The more you love yourself and others, the happier, brighter and more successful your life will become.

Race morning: 5:45 am. Jared, Bob and Lisa..race #7 Athleta skort, jog bra and top! Smith Optics sunglasses, Dreamchaser Buff, Pearl I. road shoes and smart wool socks!

God love these people and crew!!! Mark, Helene, Lisa and Todd!

Sure looks different than Tucson!

The most important bit of information is that Leigha, Helene's daughter is going to be just fine. They have some things to get worked out with the blood sugar but it was a good thing we went back to Helene and Todd's home. And the best news of all is that Todd is going to come run the Teton 50 mile, Helene the trail marathon and Leigha is going to babysit our girls for us on race weekend!!! The photo to the right is Todd, race director extraordinary Bob Becker, Me (Athleta top:)) and Helene.

It was so fun to see water. Bob Becker the wonderful race director has the most amazing view from there condo..it was a spot that you would never want to leave..no wonder he and his bride Sue love it so much! The photo below is me..ha! all decked out in my Athleta skort and shirt:)

Mark is driving the crew van and Todd is showing off his six pack.

It was so great to have these guys all there for me. My stomach still hurts from all the laughing.

Ok..so my new food plan: I decided that I was going to take it pretty easy for the first 50 miles of the race to test out my need food plan and it felt great. I felt great.

This is what I did and plan to continue to use.

Pre race: bag of sharkies, bottle of nuun, 2 enduralytes and a banana

Race: sliced oranges, watermelon, turkey and yellow cheese sandwich with mayo!

I had them give me a 1/4 of a sandwich every 30 min..

I drank only water and nuun.

Took 1 salt stick and hour

2 enduralytes every 30 min.

Corn chips here and there

2 Tylenol every 3 hours

It was 93-95 degrees with 90% humidity and there was a 3 mile stretch where I have never and I mean never felt so hot..not even at Badwater.

Protein seems to work the very best for me along with the fruit. My stomach never felt sick at all , I was peeing just fine and it all felt good. This is what I have been using at home at well and feel that in the heat this is my answer to prayers!

It seems that it was hot all over the place last weekend for the races. Great job and effort to you all.

All in all I had a wonderful weekend in Florida..it all turned out even if it was not the way I went there for! The pre race talk I did on "running for a purpose" was so fun and it seems that it has motivated some others. It it touches just one person than we have made a difference.

Have a wonderful day

Lisa

Florida Keys 50:)

Happy Sunday to you all!!!

I had a very good fun 50 mile race!!
Yes, was to run the 100 but a few things happened the night before the race that was really only going to allow me time to run the 50 miles.

Helene one of my wonderful crew members daughter has type 1 Diabetes. We were about to go to bed on Friday night and Helene got a call that her daughters blood sugar was 500..I did not know a great deal about the illness but I do now. Needless to say we almost had to drive back at 3am Sat. morning and miss the race completely. I could not run without a crew.
Helenes daughter (Leiha) was staying with friends. It took 7 hours to get her blood sugar levels back to normal but it did not leave Helene or any of us in peace, Helene needed to get home.
Family first, always first!

I only had 1.5 hours sleep on Friday night and felt just 50 to only run the 50 mile race.
I got to the race start line at 5:30 am with all the 100 mile runners and the relay teams
but did not have the heart to ask my dear friend and race director if I could drop down to the 50 mile which did not start until 10am. I could go back and sleep a few hours..but being a race director myself and knowing how much you are doing the morning right before the start I just stuck with the 100 start but in my heart about knew I was going to have to leave at 50 miles.
I felt really good...I ran the first hour easy talking to people, then got into a 4/1 plan until it got hot and the humidity picked up. I slowed down a bit and stayed with 4/1 and every once in awhile walking for 5 minutes.
My nutrition was perfect. I am down to using 5 different foods and tons of water and nuun.
My feet were good and this morning I am not even sore.
10:14 for 50 miles pretty much taking my time and feeling like it was a good training run.

At 50 miles Helene called home and told me she really wanted to go home, she was even willing to take a taxi 4 hours to get home. NOT a CHANCE..I was fine with this and felt that I had another 50 miles under my belt and that I would have continued to feel good.
I was and I am satisfied with my run.

I go home Monday morning...I miss Jay and my girl's but I am thankful to have had this time with Todd, Helene, Bob, Jared..oh and 2 of my friends Mark and Mike who showed up for part of the race...Mark and Mike have both crewed Badwater before and are 2 of the funniest people in the world. Thanks guys for taking the time, making the effort to drive all the way out to the Keys to come and see me.

Thanks to Bob and Susanne for putting up with me on Wed. night and Todd and Helene the rest of the weekend. I had a wonderful time.
Photos and more race details to come this week.

Oh..by the way..Alisa who won the 100 mile...I caught up to her at the 50 mile mark as she was leaving..she is going to be the one I tell you to all watch out for at Badwater...My money is on her! She is strong, aggressive and her power walking is awesome!
It was good to run a few miles with Anita as well..we both had a hard time with the flat and traffic but needless to say it was good to see her to!

Best to you.
I hope you who are reading this today will post your own race results from the weekend!
Lisa

They are off and running!

For results updates:

http://keys100.com
From this page, click on 2008 Results – NEW on the left-hand side of the page


Early Morning News from the Keys!

Start time is 6:00am in Key Largo and it's been a long night anticipating this inaugural race to Key West! With a forecast about 94 degrees and 65% humidity, the comfort level will shift as the sun rises and sets. There has been an added crew member as of 2am last night, Mark Bernardi from Delray Beach, FL. Old friend from Badwater couldn't stay away from the fun! Mark's humor and Todd's pacing along with the off-shore breezes will fuel us today.

This is crew member, Helene Milbert, reporting for Lisa. Arriving in Fort Lauderdale a few days ago, Lisa experienced a run in the moist humidity with race director, Bob Becker and then got a good night sleep on Thursday night. Friday morning we arrived at Key Largo to have lunch on the water. At the race kick-off meeting, Lisa gave an encouraging speech on "Running with a purpose".

With adrenaline pumping and all smiles now, we will give you an update later on today!

Athleta Women's Clothing

Athleta Women's Clothing: Some of the most beautiful clothing that there is for women of all shapes, sizes doing all kinds of things!
I LOVE ATHLETA!!! Not just for the wonderful clothing but for the beauty is which this company stands for and stands behind.
You will often see me running in skorts, out to dinner in a beautiful dress of taking a yoga class in my comfy clothing..well guess what? It is all about Athleta for me and man do I look good:):)!!

So many people stop me all the time and ask me where did you get that skort, where did you get that shirt...most always the answer is Athleta.
I am so proud to say that I am an Athleta women.

Last Friday they updated the Athleta.com home page and told me "you're the featured athlete!"

How honored I am!! Thank you Athleta for your belief in me.!!!

If you are interested in posting a comment and I hope you do click on the link below, scroll down to my name and click on the word more.

http://www.athleta.com/The direct link is


http://www.athleta.net/chi to post a comment.

Happy shopping:)


On another note my good friend and coaching student Jim Simone in riding his bike across America!!! Today is day 3. Jim would love to get an email from you..even a donation!
Check out his web site. Scroll down on the page and you will see a photo that our 5 year old Annabella drew for Jim telling him good luck:) Jim we wish you a safe journey filled with many wonderful moments. You trained so hard for this all winter long on an indoor bike trainer. One of my hero's.

http://www.harborhousedv.org/rideforshelter.htm

Have a blessed day
Lisa

Florida Keys 100 Here I Run!!!

MY KEYS 100 CREW. TODD AND HELENE!!

It has been a while since I stepped up to the starting line of a 100 mile race. Next Sat. May 17th, I will travel to Florida for the "Keys100". http://www.keys100.com/

The great news for me is that physically I feel great and I feel ready to run this race.

I look forward to the joy of running, the joy of being on a new course with many new and old friends but most of all to support my wonderful friend and "new" race director Bob Becker!

Today I was able to hold a 7:40 pace for 10 miles of very hilly roads and it was 90 degrees. I feel strong, it feels good:)

I am fortunate to say that I will the guest speaker for the Keys races at the pre-race meeting on Friday evening. The topic I will talk about is "Running for a Purpose"!!!

Yeah..I am excited:)

You will be able to follow my progress and all those running the Keys races on the race web site.

My very good friend and coaching student Bob Becker is the race director. Bob is putting on this race as a relay, 50 and 100 mile to support and raise money for prostate cancer.

I commend Bob for his amazing efforts as a humanitarian, family man, business man, friend and athlete that he is. Bob is running his 1st Badwater 135 Ultra this July.

The Keys race is a self supported race, meaning I have to have a crew! Todd and Helene Melbert who live in Florida are going to be my crew and Todd will be able to do some running with me:):)

Todd was on my Badwater double crew in 2006 and was such a blast. I look forward to spending time with both Todd and Helene at there home and on the road. I thank you both for taking this one with me.

I also look forward to seeing our friend Bob Gentile who lives in Florida and will be helping out with the race.

Story and great photo of Bob and Nattu running!

Runners to race entirety of the Keys

On Saturday, May 17, more than 125 runners will take to U.S. 1 in the first
annual Keys 100 Ultra-marathon, a 100-mile race to benefit prostate cancer
research and education.
The runners, all highly conditioned athletes from across the United States,
will start at mile marker 100 in Key Largo, and with a little luck, will
cross the finish line at Smathers Beach in Key West.
For more of this story, click on or type the URL below:
http://upperkeysreporter.com/articles/2008/05/01/keys_life/life01.txt

Can't wait!

Dream Big.

Lisa

Walking Your Way to Ultimate Health!

Walking Your Way to Ultimate Health by Lisa Smith-Batchen

The mistake most of us make when starting an exercise program is this: too much, too fast. And then we burn out and stop exercising. Small steps lead to big steps. Literally.
One of the best modes of exercise available to everyone is walking. Walking can be done anywhere, anytime. You don’t need a gym or any equipment except a good pair of shoes. It provides just as much of a workout as running and takes away the risk of injury that can occur with running.
I have been walking as a supplement to my running for years. I can now walk 5.5 mph, and I love it.
Autumn is a great time to start your walking program. The brilliant colors give you plenty to look at and the crisp air prevents you from overheating and is easier to inhale than the muggy, humid air of summer.
Before beginning your walking program make sure you have proper walking shoes. I cannot emphasize this enough. Having the correct shoes will prevent the aches and pains associated with improper shoes. Have a knowledgeable salesperson work with you on what pair best fits your feet. The shoes need to have moderate cushioning and room in the toe box.
Now, when I say walk, I mean WALK. I don’t want you to walk as if you were slowly browsing about in the mall—I want you to put some muscle into it. The larger the muscle mass you involve with each stride, the greater the health benefits, including weight loss.
Start extending a backward force against the ground the instant your heel touches down. Think of pulling the ground under your body with your leg. This action involves the back of the thigh (hamstring) and the buttocks (gluteals). Together, these muscles are up to five times bigger than your calf muscles. End each stride with a push-off as you normally would.
Your hips are also a big part of walking. Reach forward with the hip of the leg that is coming forward for the new stride. By doing this you will work your abdominals, lower back muscles and the gluteals.
Throughout your walk focus on something that is 20-30 feet in front of you—a lamppost, tree, mailbox. Keep your eyes level, walk smooth and don’t bounce. Be sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and always stretch after each walking session.
Why walk?
Walking is the best way to start your running program. If you are interested in introducing running into your exercise regimen, then walking (not strolling) is the perfect way to do so. In addition, it doesn’t matter where you live, what season it is (snowshoes or Yaxtrax® make it easy to get around in winter), or whether you are at home or travelling—you can walk anywhere! Many people, including myself, walk during each running training session and even during a race.
The benefits to your body include better fat metabolism, improved glucose tolerance, a lower resting heart rate, and reduced stress. Walking up and down hills works every muscle in the body and will give you a very good aerobic workout.
How do I get started?
Start any exercise program gradually and only three to four days a week. Start with a 15-20 minute walk and add 10 minutes to each session each week. Forty-five minutes to one hour is the ideal workout length for weight loss and health benefits.
As you increase your workout time, also increase your speed. If you feel slightly out of breath throughout the workout then you know that you are in a heart rate working zone. If you can hold a conversation for the entire walking session then you need to pick up the pace! You should only be able to talk in phrases, not complete sentences.
Example of a beginner’s walking week
Monday: 20 minutes of walking. For the first ten minutes walk at a good pace. For the remaining ten minutes walk one minute as fast as you can, then one minute slowly. Repeat until the ten minutes is up.
Tuesday: off.
Wednesday: repeat Monday’s workout.
Thursday: off.
Friday: 25 minutes at a good steady pace.
Saturday: 20 minute walk. Go slowly for 5 minutes then walk two minutes as fast as you can, followed by three minutes at a good pace. Keep this pattern up for the remainder of the walk.
Sunday: off.
No excuses—get out there and enjoy the foliage of fall and brisk, breathy conversation with a walking buddy.
Happy feet!
Lisa

More MDS Television Coverage

I must say that it is so exciting to watch and hear of all of the media attention that the Marathon des Sables is attracting this year. As a coach, I know how hard athletes prepare for this event and it’s great that some recognition is part of the reward. You are ALL stars in my book!!

Another great video clip to watch…Peggy Gaudet shares about her MDS adventure. It is so wonderful how Peggy is inspiring members of her community and the students around her. Maybe one day her students will be running MDS with my daughters!

Article /Transcript

Video Clip (there will be a 10 second commercial before the news segment appears)

The ESPN interview with me was cut short! They had 3 more questions to ask me but the first man on took up my time. Oh well:) The phone is ringing off the wall with people wanting to run the MDS, which is wonderful because I think you all know by now what an amazing race it is.

Hey...tell me what your favorite race is and why???

I am off for a long run this morning. 2 weeks before the Keys 100 mile. I feel good and will end up with about 12 hours on my feet this week. Not even close to what I wanted but you do what you can right!

Many Blessing for a wonderful weekend

Lisa