AORTA News: January 20th, 2025
Feb 1st: AU Club Frank Orgel 5K
When: Saturday, February 01, 2025
Time: 7:30 AM (5K)
Where: Auburn University Club
1650 Yarbrough Farms Blvd, Auburn, AL
Fee: $35
Decription: Join us as we run/walk/jog along the beautiful Auburn University Club greens and fairways in honor of Coach Frank Orgel, a beloved and admired football coach, Auburn University Club member, husband, father, grandfather and friend. Our 5K Memorial Run is raising money to support Twin Cedars Youth and Family Services in Opelika, AL
Feb 15th: Return to the Plains 5K
When: Saturday, February 15, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM (1-Mile), 8:30 AM (5K)
Where: Town Creek Park, Auburn, AL
Fee: $20 (1-Mile), $35 (5K)
Description: Celebrate the Auburn spirit and support a vital cause at the Return to the Plains 5K! Join us on February 15th for a scenic run through the historic plains of Auburn, Alabama, all while raising funds for the future Center for Mental Health, opening Fall 2025 in Opelika.
This state-of-the-art facility will provide essential mental health services to Lee County and beyond. Your participation helps make this vision a reality, ensuring accessible care and support for those in need.
Donate to Return to the Plains
Play a pivotal role in transforming mental health care in our community by supporting the Return to the Plains 5K, benefiting the new Center for Mental Health in Opelika. Your generous contribution will directly support the Center's mission to provide expanded mental health services in or region. For every $100 donated, you will receive a coupon code for a complimentary race entry. Thank you for helping us build a healthier, stronger community!
Mar 8th: DOwn South Dash 5K
When: Saturday, March 08, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM (1-Mile), 8:30 AM (5K)
Where: Town Creek Park, Auburn, AL
Fee: $15 (1-Mile), $25 (5K)
Description: Join us for the DOwn South Dash: Steps for Hope 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run! Hosted by VCOM Auburn’s Via Wellness Club, this event is more than just a run—it’s a stride toward hope, healing, and making a difference. Choose between a family-friendly 1-mile fun run or challenge yourself with the 5K as we hit Town Creek Park of Auburn, AL to raise funds for the DOwn South Cancer Foundation, supporting cancer patients and their families in their time of need. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a dedicated walker, or just here for the fun vibes, this event promises a morning filled with purpose, community, and maybe even a donut or two at the finish line! Let’s come together to make every step count!
Mar 22nd: Colors for Children's 5K
When: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM (1-Mile), 8:30 AM (5K)
Where: Auburn High School Track, Auburn, AL
Fee: $15 (1-Mile), $25 (5K)
Description: This exciting event is not only a chance to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement but also an opportunity to support a wonderful cause.
Benefiting the Children's Hospital of Alabama, every step you take helps make a difference in the lives of children in need. The race will unfold across Auburn High's campus and surrounding area, promising picturesque views and a sense of community spirit.
For those looking for a lighter challenge, our 1-mile Fun Run is the perfect family-friendly activity. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, there's something for everyone at the "Colors for Children's" event.Mark your calendars for March 22nd and join us for a day filled with colorful fun, fitness, and philanthropy. Together, let's make this event a memorable one for all while making a meaningful impact on children's lives. We can't wait to see you there!
Mar 29th: Book It For Drake
When: Saturday, March 29, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM (1-Mile), 9:00 AM (5K)
Where: Town Creek Park, Auburn, AL
Fee: $30 (1-Mile), $30 (5K)
Description: Registration is now open for Book It for Drake 5K and Fun Run, taking place Saturday, March 29 2025 at Town Creek Park. All proceeds will benefit Drake Middle School. Packet pickup will be Friday, March 28 at Drake Middle School from 3:45 (after bus dismissal) until 6:00, as well as at the Town Creek pavilion beginning at 7:00 am on race day. The fun run begins at 8:30 am, followed by the 5K at 9:00 am.
Sign Up for AORTA’s 600 or 1200 Mile Club Today!
1200 Mile Club
In addition to logging 1200 miles during the calendar year, members of the 1200 Mile Club must be paid members of AORTA, volunteer for at least THREE (3) AORTA supported races, and volunteer to cover at least THREE (3) Saturday morning AORTA water stops during the calendar year.
600 Mile Club
In addition to logging 600 miles during the calendar year, members of the 600 Mile Club must be paid members of AORTA, volunteer for at least TWO (2) AORTA supported races, and volunteer to cover at least TWO (2) Saturday morning AORTA water stop during the calendar year.
Link to 600/1200 Mile Club Signup
Have Gently Worn Running Shoes?
Are your running shoes past their useful running life? Most are normally good for 300 to 500 miles but can still have a lot of “sole” left in them! If yours are ready for retirement, bring your gently used running shoes to Love2Run, our local running partner store, where they’ll collect them for a fantastic organization called “Sneakers4Good”, a social enterprise that ships them to developing nations for micro-entrepreneurs.
When you bring them, please check for the following:
1) Gently worn means they are clean in usable condition and have no holes.
2) Soles are intact and not too worn, cracked, or breaking apart.
3) Laces intact, in good condition, not frayed, and tied together.
Weekly Whimsy
6 Common Beginner Runner Mistakes
Rozalynn Frazier, Runner’s World
** Summary of article **
Embarking on a running journey offers numerous health benefits, but beginners often encounter common pitfalls that can hinder progress. Recognizing and addressing these mistakes can pave the way for a sustainable and enjoyable running experience.
1. Progressing Too Quickly
It's tempting to advance rapidly, but patience is crucial. Both mental resilience and physical adaptation take time. To prevent injuries, gradually increase your running duration and frequency. Start with two to three runs per week, each lasting 10 to 15 minutes, and incrementally add five to ten minutes every one to two weeks. Focusing on time spent running, rather than distance, helps build endurance without overexertion.
2. Neglecting Strength Training
Running alone isn't sufficient for overall fitness. Incorporating strength training enhances muscle balance, supports joints, and reduces injury risk. Aim for at least two strength sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups, to complement your running routine.
3. Ignoring Rest and Recovery
Rest days are as vital as training days. They allow your body to repair and strengthen, preventing burnout and injuries. Ensure you schedule regular rest days and listen to your body, adjusting your routine as needed to maintain overall health.
4. Wearing Inappropriate Footwear
Choosing the right running shoes is essential. Ill-fitting or worn-out shoes can lead to discomfort and injuries. Visit a specialty running store to get fitted for shoes that suit your foot type and running style, and replace them every 300 to 500 miles.
5. Poor Nutrition and Hydration
Fueling your body properly impacts performance and recovery. Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and stay hydrated before, during, and after runs. Consider consulting a nutritionist to tailor your diet to your running needs.
6. Skipping Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs
Diving straight into a run without warming up can strain muscles, while neglecting cool-downs hinders recovery. Incorporate dynamic stretches before running to prepare your muscles and static stretches afterward to aid in flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.
By being mindful of these common mistakes and proactively addressing them, beginner runners can establish a solid foundation, leading to improved performance and a more enjoyable running experience.
Link to Runner’s World article
Quote of the Week
Today I will RUN
for the pure,
absolute joy.
Lopez Lomong
2008 1500M Olympian
Video of the Week
Running a Marathon is a Stupid Idea: Brendan Eyre (10:33)
** AORTA provides this informational video to its members as a courtesy and does not endorse any particular product, process, or service.
Ongoing Events
RunGo For Turn-By-Turn Directions!
RunGo provides turn-by-turn navigation allowing you to just enjoy your runs without having to think about looking for street names and when you may have to turn next. Other great features include, audio cues with your running stats, split updates, the ability to share your runs via social media, and create new routes. Another great feature of the app is the ability to work offline. You can create and download your routes ahead of time, before your run so you don’t have to use data during your run.
Race Volunteers Needed!
As a runner, we know your time is valuable. But if you have a couple hours to spare, we could use your help for one of the upcoming AORTA supported or directed races! Assisting at a local race is a fun and rewarding experience. You are surrounded by health conscious individuals that, like you, are motivated fitness enthusiasts and appreciate the effort of volunteers.
Water Stop Volunteers Needed
Water stop signs and coolers are available at the following location: 1536 Professional Parkway, Auburn, AL. (Thank you Adahli Massey!). Coolers and signs can be picked up Monday-Thursday from 8AM-4PM and on Fridays from 8AM-12 noon. Items are in the room next to the back door. If you are unable to pick up supplies on these dates/times, e-mail clemster@aol.com to make alternative arrangements (we deliver!).
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