AORTA News: December 30th, 2013

New Year’s Resolution Run!
Join your fellow runners as we ring in the New Year at Big Dog Running Co. for an early morning… ok, not so early, New Year’s run!  Bring your favorite breakfast dish, a small snack, or drinks and stick around to share those items along with your New Year’s running/ fitness resolutions!  We’ll kick off the run at 8:00 AM.  You can choose either a 3M or 5M route (links below) then return to BDRC for fun and fellowship!

Date: January 01, 2014
Location: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Time: 8:00 AM
Cost: Free (No t-shirts or medals for this one!)

* Bring your 2014 Membership Application/Renewal form if desired!

AORTA Resolution 3M Run           AORTA Resolution 5M Run   

Time to Renew Memberships!
To paraphrase up an old adage, "With great fun, comes great responsibility"… or something like that.  Anyway, it’s time to renew your official membership.  Why, you ask?  Why join if the runs are free, the waterstops are free, the comradery is free and the meetings are free?   Well, you get… um…, and… uh…, also,…. um.  Hey, it’s the right thing to do and you can also brag to everyone that you’re an “official” member!

How to Join/Renew
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below, or bring it to the Resolution Run!

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  To ring in the New Year, we’re starting a new session this Saturday (Jan 4th) which targets the Mellow Dog 5K on April 5th, 2014.  
Here’s the schedule:
Saturdays - 6:15 AM
Mondays - 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM  (January 6th, no 5:30 PM session)
Wednesdays - 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM
All sessions will meet at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.
For more information, e-mail Linda Christensen at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Tone Zone (formerly Abs and Arms)
Formerly listed as “Abs and Arms”, we’re changing it up a bit  to make this more of a whole body workout.  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your total body workout with weights and strength training.  Tone, tighten and your core, abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

AORTA Club Meeting, Jan 13th
Club meeting: Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.
- Guest speakers: Dr. Horak
- Topic: Running Injury Prevention and Treatment
- Discussion: Dr. Horak brings his years of experience as an Air Force Flight Surgeon and training in Primary Care Sports Medicine at Andrews Clinic to AORTA and Big Dog.  Don’t miss this one!
Come join us for this valuable presentation!

AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon, Jan 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Weekly Whimsy

Dilbert by Scott Adams

Quote of the Week

“We are different, in essence, from other men.  If you want to win something, run 100 meters.  If you want to experience something, run a marathon”.

     -  Emil Zatopek
        Olympic Gold Medalist

Video of the Week: The Western States 100
Unbreakable: The Western States 100 Official Trailer  (4:32)

Note that this ends in Auburn, CA!

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.    For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

10 Tips for Running in the Cold
1. Get Motivated - Make a date to meet someone for a run.
2. Arm Your Feet - Run in shoes that have the least amount of mesh and wear socks that wick away wetness but keep your feet warm.
3.  Get Dressed - Dress as if it is 20 degrees warmer… you should be slightly cool when you start.  Layer with technical fibers to wick sweat, with zippers at the neck and underarm area to vent air as you heat up.
4.  Be seen - Wear reflective, fluorescent gear, and don’t be shy about lighting yourself up like a Christmas tree.
5.  Warm up Prerun - Move around to get the blood flowing without breaking a sweat.  The cold doesn’t feel so cold when you’re warm.
6.  Deal with Wind - Start your run into the wind and finish with it at your back.  Protect exposed skin.
7.  Forget speed - Winter running is more about maintenance miles than speedwork.
8.  Change Quickly Postrun - Your core body temperature drops as soon as you stop running.  To avoid a lingering case of the chills, change your clothes as soon as you can.
9.  Deal with Rain - Keep a spare pair of sneakers, running outfit, and towels in your car.  To dry shoes overnight, crumple up newspaper and cram it tightly into your shoes with the insoles removed.
10.  Go Someplace Warm - Moderate southern temperatures (yeah... right!) allow runners to go for personal records during races in the southern states.
* To read the entire article, click on the Runners World logo above.

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

AORTA News: December 23rd, 2013

New Year’s Resolution Run! *Updated*

Join your fellow runners as we ring in the New Year at Big Dog Running Co. for an early morning… ok, not so early, New Year’s run!  Bring your favorite breakfast dish, a small snack, or drinks and stick around to share those items along with your New Year’s running/ fitness resolutions!  We’ll kick off the run at 8:00 AM for either a 3M or 5M run and return to BDRC for fun and fellowship!
AORTA Resolution 3M Run
AORTA Resolution 5M Run

Date: January 01, 2014
Location: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Time: 8:00 AM
Cost: Free (No t-shirts or medals for this one!)

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

When is Your Birthday?

Not a question normally asked and considered rude, we’d like to have your birthday to list it on the sidebar during your birth month.  If you’d like to have yours listed, please e-mail Monica Kennis, our membership guru.

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week

      “It’s all downhill…
                                    until the next uphill”. 

     -  Blake Henry (12/21/2013)


Video of the Week: Santa Free Running
Some ideas for a Christmas run?!  (6:19)

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The last C25K session has ended but we’ll be starting a new one shortly!  Stay tuned for the next session. The group will meet every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

10 Tips for Running in the Cold
1. Get Motivated - Make a date to meet someone for a run.
2. Arm Your Feet - Run in shoes that have the least amount of mesh and wear socks that wick away wetness but keep your feet warm.
3.  Get Dressed - Dress as if it is 20 degrees warmer… you should be slightly cool when you start.  Layer with technical fibers to wick sweat, with zippers at the neck and underarm area to vent air as you heat up.
4.  Be seen - Wear reflective, fluorescent gear, and don’t be shy about lighting yourself up like a Christmas tree.
5.  Warm up Prerun - Move around to get the blood flowing without breaking a sweat.  The cold doesn’t feel so cold when you’re warm.
6.  Deal with Wind - Start your run into the wind and finish with it at your back.  Protect exposed skin.
7.  Forget speed - Winter running is more about maintenance miles than speedwork.
8.  Change Quickly Postrun - Your core body temperature drops as soon as you stop running.  To avoid a lingering case of the chills, change your clothes as soon as you can.
9.  Deal with Rain - Keep a spare pair of sneakers, running outfit, and towels in your car.  To dry shoes overnight, crumple up newspaper and cram it tightly into your shoes with the insoles removed.
10.  Go Someplace Warm - Moderate southern temperatures (yeah... right!) allow runners to go for personal records during races in the southern states.
* To read the entire article, click on the Runners World logo above.

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

AORTA News: December 16th, 2013

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                 10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

When is Your Birthday?
Not a question normally asked and considered rude, we’d like to have your birthday to list it on the sidebar during your birth month.  If you’d like to have yours listed, please e-mail Monica Kennis, our membership guru.

10 Tips for Running in the Cold
1. Get Motivated - Make a date to meet someone for a run.
2. Arm Your Feet - Run in shoes that have the least amount of mesh and wear socks that wick away wetness but keep your feet warm.
3.  Get Dressed - Dress as if it is 20 degrees warmer… you should be slightly cool when you start.  Layer with technical fibers to wick sweat, with zippers at the neck and underarm area to vent air as you heat up.
4.  Be seen - Wear reflective, fluorescent gear, and don’t be shy about lighting yourself up like a Christmas tree.
5.  Warm up Prerun - Move around to get the blood flowing without breaking a sweat.  The cold doesn’t feel so cold when you’re warm.
6.  Deal with Wind - Start your run into the wind and finish with it at your back.  Protect exposed skin.
7.  Forget speed - Winter running is more about maintenance miles than speedwork.
8.  Change Quickly Postrun - Your core body temperature drops as soon as you stop running.  To avoid a lingering case of the chills, change your clothes as soon as you can.
9.  Deal with Rain - Keep a spare pair of sneakers, running outfit, and towels in your car.  To dry shoes overnight, crumple up newspaper and cram it tightly into your shoes with the insoles removed.
10.  Go Someplace Warm - Moderate southern temperatures (yeah... right!) allow runners to go for personal records during races in the southern states.
* To read the entire article, click on the Runners World logo above.

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week

   “I had as many doubts as anyone else.  Standing on the starting line, we’re all cowards.” 

     -  Alberto Salazar


Video of the Week: Jean-Paul The Marathon Runner
Can Jerry help Jean-Paul get up in time for the marathon? (5:23)

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The last C25K session ended last Saturday but we’ll be starting a new one shortly!  Stay tuned for the next session. The group will meet every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information. Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: December 9th, 2013

AORTA Christmas Party, Thursday, Dec 12th
Current AORTA members should have received an e-invite last week  If you didn’t receive one, please e-mail the webmaster as soon as possible.
* Note the Auburn Christmas Parade has been rescheduled for the same date at 5:00 pm and parking may be an issue.
* Updated Dec 11: From the Auburn Daily Extra *
Road closings for Dec. 12 Christmas parade to affect traffic on Auburn campus
The Auburn Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Christmas parade in downtown Auburn Thursday, Dec. 12, beginning at 5 p.m. Road closings on the route will affect traffic entering and leaving the Auburn University campus. The parade will begin at the corner of Thach Avenue and College Street, turn left onto College Street, right onto Tichenor, right onto Gay Street and right again on Thach to end where it began. The parade will line up on Mell Street facing north. Mell Street from Roosevelt to Thach will be closed to traffic on Dec. 12 from 3:30-7 p.m. Transit service to the Mell Street Station will be diverted to Heisman Drive commencing at 3 p.m. Students should allow additional time to reach their campus destinations. Students coming to the RBD Library to study will still be allowed access from Roosevelt into the Library Parking Deck and Comer Parking Lot after 5 p.m. Those still on campus at 3:30 p.m. may experience delays leaving campus due to parade traffic.

This year’s Christmas will be held at the Auburn University Alumni Center 
When: Thursday, December 12th
Where: AU Alumni Center
             317 S. College Street
Time: 6:30-9:00 pm

If you plan to attend, please RSVP via the e-invite and bring a food dish.  Persons with last names beginning with A-M are asked to bring a side dish.  Those with last names beginning with N-Z are asked to bring a dessert.  AORTA will supply a seafood and meat dish.

AORTA winners!
Outstanding finishes from our club members!  AORTA members cleaned up this weekend during the annual Toys for Tots race at Auburn High School.  Special thanks to the AHS JROTC for assisting with race preparations and course directions.  And of course, congratulations to Monica Kennis and her fabulous team of volunteers for putting on an exceptional race!

- Toys for Tots 10K
   . Morgan Brown: 2nd Female Overall   . Gail Lien: 1st Female Masters
   . Beverly Long: 1st in Age Group
   . Bill Pearce: 1st in Age Group
   . Mike Milford: 2nd in Age Group
   . Tammy Hollis: 3rd in Age Group
   . Martin Mosconi: 3rd in Age Group
   . Alan Reed: 3rd in Age Group
   . Keven Yost: 3rd in Age Group

- Toys for Tots 5K
   . Mac Deshazier: 1st Male Masters
   . Sandra Deshaier: 1st in Age Group
   . Jessie Lien: 1st in Age Group
   . Roger Lien: 1st in Age Group
   . Cyndi Walp: 2nd in Age Group
   . James Majors: 3rd in Age Group

- Cozumel Ironman Finishers!
   . Tracey Buckingham: 12:52:45: 34th in Age Group
      Swim: 51:41 (T1 - 13:08)
      Bike: 6:56:32 (T2 - 7:59)
      Run: 4:43:25
   . Blake Henry: 11:50:27: 43rd in Age Group
      Swim: 57:00 (T1 - 10:25)
      Bike: 6:17:22 (T2 - 5:09)
      Run: 4:20:31

When is Your Birthday?
Not a question normally asked and considered rude, we’d like to have your birthday to list it on the sidebar during your birth month.  If you’d like to have yours listed, please e-mail Monica Kennis, our membership guru.

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Picture of the Week

Quote of the Week

   “Crossing the starting line may be an act of courage, but crossing the finish line is an act of faith. Faith is what keeps us going when nothing else will. Faith is the emotion that will give you victory over your past, the demons in your soul, and all of those voices that tell you what you can and cannot do and can and cannot be.” 

     -  John Bingham


Video of the Week: We Got Ourselves A Game
"No matter what the stats may say, when the race is on all bets are off. “ (2:16)

Bonus Video of the Week: SEC Championship Game
We know you can’t get enough! (2:47)

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The last C25K session ended last Saturday but we’ll be starting a new one shortly!  Stay tuned for the next session. The group will meet every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program. For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: December 2nd, 2013

Sign Up Now! AORTA Christmas Party, Dec 12th

This year’s Christmas will be held at the Auburn University Alumni Center 
When: Thursday, December 12th
Where: AU Alumni Center
             317 S. College Street
Time: 6:30-9:00 pm
Current AORTA members should have received an e-invite last week.  If you plan to attend, please RSVP and bring a food dish.  Persons with last names beginning with A-M are asked to bring a side dish.  Those with last names beginning with N-Z are asked to bring a dessert.  AORTA will supply a seafood and meat dish.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013, December 7th

The Toys for Tots race is this Saturday at Auburn High School and will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Additional information and links
Event Parking: Auburn High School, South Parking Lot
Starting Location: Auburn High School, North Parking Lot
Start times: 5K/10K 7:30 am,  1-Mile: 9:00

- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

AORTA Toys for Tots 5K and 10K Route Maps

http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Pre-Race running tips

Don’t try anything new
- Stick with what you know for a week before race day.
- Don't be afraid to skip the prerace dinner or hotel breakfast.

Several days prior to race day
- Eat moderate portions of carbs and drink normal amounts of fluids.
- If you think fiber might be an issue, cut back on those foods three days before a major race.
- Vary your diet with nongrain carb sources, such as fruits and starchy vegetables, to benefit from a wider range of nutrients.

On race day
- Drink 16 ounces of water two to three hours before the start.
- Try to drink another 1-2 cups right before the gun goes off.
- Don’t skip breakfast.  If you get nervous, wake up early and eat breakfast slowly. If you can't stomach solid foods, drink a smoothie with bananas, fruit juice, and milk.

For the entire Runner’s World article, click here.

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Picture of the Week

Yes, this does relate to running… see below….

Quote of the Week

"There is something magical about running; after a certain distance, it transcends the body. Then a bit further, it transcends the mind. A bit further yet, and what you have before you, laid bare, is the soul.”

     -  Kristin Armstrong
        Contributing Editor for Runner’s  World Magazine

Run of the Week: Auburn vs. Alabama 2013
Here is unarguably the best “run” of the week! (2:50)

All rights are those of The Auburn Network, CBS, SEC, Auburn and Alabama.

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program. For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: November 25th, 2013

AORTA Members - We need your votes!
Ballots are still being collected.  If you did NOT receive a surveymonkey ballot for our new logo or for club Vice President, please contact the AORTA webmaster as soon as possible.

Mark Your Calendar! AORTA Christmas Party, Dec 12th

This year’s Christmas will be held at the Auburn University Alumni Center 
When: Thursday, December 12th
Where: AU Alumni Center
             317 S. College Street
Time: 6:30-9:00 pm
Current AORTA members will receive an e-invite this week.  If you plan to attend, please bring a food dish.  Persons with last names beginning with A-M are asked to bring a side dish.  Those with last names beginning with N-Z are asked to bring a dessert.  AORTA will supply a seafood and meat dish.

AORTA Presents $3,800 Charity Check to EAMC!

On Wednesday, November 20th, Scott Walker, Club President, joined several AORTA board members in presenting East Alabama Medical Center with a $3,800 donation to the Foundation Breast Health Fund!

Photo Credit: John Atkinson

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013, December 7th

Only 2 weeks left until this year's Toys for Tots race on December 7th!  Sign up NOW using either the online link at right (click the logo) or download the registration forms below.  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Additional information and links
Event Parking: Auburn High School, South Parking Lot
Starting Location: Auburn High School, North Parking Lot
Start times: 5K/10K 7:30 am,  1-Mile: 9:00

- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

AORTA Toys for Tots 5K and 10K Route Maps

http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

For the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week

      “Running is real and relatively simple . . .
                                               but it ain’t easy.”

                     - John Bingham

Video of the Week: Runners All Of Us
Interval Training for Beginners.  (7:16)

Fun Facts
New words added to the American Heritage Dictionary in 2013:

autocomplete (n.): a function, as on a search engine, that supplies one or more options of predicted words or phrases beginning with the characters that a user has already entered.

drifting (n.): a technique in motorspots in which the driver briefly oversteers at the start of a turn, causing the rear of the vehicle to enter a controlled lateral skid until the turn is complete.

photobomb (v.): to move unexpectedly and quickly into the frame of a photograph that is being taken of someone or something.

selfie (n): A photograph that one takes of oneself.

yosting (n): the act of running at a pace well below one’s potential due to lack of motivation, temporary lameness, or just plain laziness when faced with a route that appears to be moderately challenging in length or elevation change; also, to completely opt out of a training run for no particular reason.

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program. For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: November 18th, 2013

Vote for our Next VP!
All current AORTA members will receive a surveymonkey voting poll this week.  Online votes will be accepted through Dec 1st with the winner announced at the Christmas party on December 12th.

Saturday Runs
Hope y'all enjoyed the reprieve of last Saturday’s short run!  For those who felt it too short (or too confusing… Greg) we’ll start increasing our mileage as we approach the New Year!

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013, December 7th

Only 3 weeks left until this year's Toys for Tots race on December 7th!  Sign up NOW using either the online link at right (click the logo) or download the registration forms below.  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Additional information and links
Event Parking: Auburn High School, South Parking Lot
Starting Location: Auburn High School, North Parking Lot
Start times: 5K/10K 7:30 am,  1-Mile: 9:00

- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

AORTA Toys for Tots 5K and 10K Route Maps

AORTA Christmas Party, Dec 12th

This year’s Christmas will be held at the Auburn University Alumni Center 
When: Thursday, December 12th
Where: AU Alumni Center
            317 S. College Street
Time: TBD
Stay tuned for more information!

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 18th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 18th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.

* New* Also, for the first time EVER, AORTA's Classic Half & 10K will have a shadow run. Task Force Tarpon will be hosting this run in Kabul, Afghanistan. Participants will be US Soldiers and coalition partners. We are honored and humbled to have them joining us.  While they are laying their lives on the line for us and others, they will be helping folks back at home that are battling cancer. We will be sending them a package with race shirts and some swag. 

Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Greg McMillan GPS Rules
Speed and distance monitors have revolutionized our ability to track training.  Here are five guidelines to get the most from your GPS.

Rule No. 1: Don’t Look - Don't look at your GPS for the first 10 minutes, let your body set the pace rather than the watch, and flow into your normal pace over the next mile or two.

Rule No. 2: Let the Pace Vary - Get comfortable with pace variation and don't worry so much about your exact speed at any given time during an easy run. Instead, just see what your average pace is after the run.

Rule No. 3: Don’t Question the Race Distance - The GPS estimates the distance you run, but race courses are measured along the shortest distance, using more precise tools. It's highly unlikely that you'll run this shortest distance for the entire race, so your races will likely be "long.”

Rule No. 4: Don’t Race the GPS - Stay within the pace range to get the benefits of the workout.  Use the GPS to help you stay in your training zone.

Rule No. 5: Leave It At Home - The GPS is a great advance, but it's just another training tool. Its role is to help you learn to use your internal GPS more than your external GPS. So if you're going on your regular run that you've done dozens of times, leave your GPS at home.

For additional details, click on the logo below:

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week
“Somehow we’ve come to believe that greatness is only for the chosen few, for the superstars.  The truth is, greatness is for us all.  This is not about lowering expectations; it’s about raising them for evey last one of us.  Greatness is not in one special place, and it’s not in one special person. Greatness is wherever somebody is trying to find it.”

       - Nike Ad

Video of the Week: Runners All Of Us
A video that depicts the parallels of life and running a marathon.  (7:11)

Ongoing Events

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:  http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: November 11th, 2013

Soldier Marathon/Half-Marathon AORTA Group Photo
Thanks to all who showed up for our group photo shot!  To say the least, Auburn/ Opelika was WELL represented not only in Columbus but at numerous other events this weekend.  Congratulations to everyone, especially to all our first-time marathon and half-marathon runners!

* Link to Soldier Marathon pictures published by the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

AORTA winners!
Outstanding finishes from our club members!

- 2013 Soldier Marathon
   . Drew Hill: 3rd Overall!
   . Mike Walsh: 5th in Age Group

- 2013 Soldier Half-Marathon
   . Molly Johnson: 2nd in Age Group
   . Beverly Long: 2nd in Age Group
   . Gloria Walsh: 5th in Age Group

- 2013 Rock ’n’ Roll Savannah Marathon
   . Emily Ansick: 4th Female!

Vote For Our New Logo!
After years of existing without a distinguishing logo to represent the club, the board members have selected a few designs as potential symbols for our awesome organization. The winning design will be used on everything from race endorsements, membership cards, club polo shirts/t-shirts, and for any other club sponsored event.  A survey has been sent to all paid members.  Your votes will be collected with the winning design announced once a majority of votes is received.  If a majority is not received, a runoff between the top 2 designs will be conducted.

Nominations Needed for our Next VP!

We've received 10 names for our next club vice president but nominations are still open!

Submit nominations by this Friday, Nov 15th to:  AORTA.WEBMASTER@gmail.com

Online voting will be conducted between Nov 18th to Dec 1st with the winner announced at the Christmas party on December 12th.

Jeff Galloway Running School: Nov 17, 2013
Mark your calendar now!  World-class athlete, member of the 1972 Olympic Team, esteemed running author, Runner's World columnist and founder of Galloway Marathon Training Program, Jeff Galloway will be coming to Auburn on Sunday, November 17th!
When: Sunday, November 17, 2013 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Cost: $99.00 (no cost for current Galloway members)

* Registration is required to attend this informative and motivating workshop.

For more information, contact Tammy Hollis - Program Director at auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

AORTA Christmas Party, Dec 12th

This year’s Christmas will be held at the Auburn University Alumni Center 
When: Thursday, December 12th
Where: AU Alumni Center
            317 S. College Street
Time: TBD
Stay tuned for more information!

Soles 4 Souls
Got any old shoes that you’re not sure what to do with?  Big Dog Running Co., Auburn is now an officially designated drop off point for Soles4Soles.  Soles4Souls is a global not-for-profit institution dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty.  The organization collects new and used shoes then distributes those shoes to people in need and by provisioning qualified micro-enterprise programs designed to create jobs in poor and disadvantaged communities.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013, December 7th

Only 4 weeks left until this year's Toys for Tots race on December 7th!  Sign up NOW using either the online link at right (click the logo) or download the registration forms below.  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Additional information and links
Event Parking: Auburn High School, South Parking Lot
Starting Location: Auburn High School, North Parking Lot
Start times: 5K/10K 7:30 am,  1-Mile: 9:00

- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

AORTA Toys for Tots 5K and 10K Route Maps

http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 19th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 19th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.  Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week

        “Ability is what you’re capable of doing.
            Motivation determines what you do.
                 Attitude determines how well you do it.”

                       - Lou Holtz

Video of the Week: Delta Honor Guard - Final Flight
In honor of Veteran’s Day, this video captures Delta Airlines Honor Guards’ solemn ceremony for a fallen warrior’s final flight home. The custom began at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in 2005, is performed 5-6 times per week, and has since been expanded to other airports as well as American Airlines.
Requiescat In Pace (3:14)

* Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Delta group honors veterans’ remains.

Ongoing Events

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th but you can still join!  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30 pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: November 4th, 2013

AORTA Club Meeting Tonight, Nov 4th
Club meeting: Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.
- Guest speakers: Nicole Agostino and Trudi Hawke from Yogafly Studio.
- Topic: Yoga for Runners
- Discussion: They will discuss the Yogafly Studio, types of classes offered, and how yoga can help keep a person (specifically runners) stay in shape by staying more flexible, less prone to injuries, etc.  And, If we are lucky, maybe they will have time to illustrate a few yoga positions that are beneficial to runners.
- Come join us for this valuable presentation!

Soldier Marathon AORTA Group Photo
All members running the half or full marathon this Saturday are invited to meet prior to the race for a AORTA club group photo!  Plan to meet in front of the statue at 7:30 am ET directly in front of the museum where you check in (See photos below).  Sunrise will be at 7:04 so we should be good with the light!
** Columbus is an hour ahead of us (Auburn / Opelika) so don't be late!!

AORTA winners!
More outstanding achievements from our club members!

- 2013 Run to Read 10K
   . Greg Wilson: 3rd Overall, 1st in Age Group
   . Gail Lien: 1st in Age Group
   . Beth Kisor: 1st in Age Group
   . Kelly Salatto: 2nd in Age Group
   . Lisa Plaisance: 3rd in Age Group

- 2013 Run to Read 5K
   . Bob Banks: 1st in Age Group
   . Tom Turkington: 1st in Age Group
   . Cyndi Walp: 2nd in Age Group

Nominations Needed for our Next VP!

We've received 10 names for our next club vice president but nominations are still open!
Submit nominations by Nov 15th to:  AORTA.WEBMASTER@gmail.com

Online voting will be conducted between Nov 18th to Dec 1st with the winner announced at the Christmas party (date TBD).

Saturday Run
Hope everyone enjoyed last week’s spooky “Cemetery” Run!  This weekend, for those not running the Soldier Marathon/Half-Marathon (or still recovering from the New York Marathon), we’ll still have our normally scheduled long and short runs, so please come out and join us!

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013, December 7th

Only 5 weeks left until this year's Toys for Tots race on December 7th!  Sign up NOW using either the online link at right (click the logo) or download the registration forms below.  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Additional information and links
Event Parking: Auburn High School, South Parking Lot
Starting Location: Auburn High School, North Parking Lot
Start times: 5K/10K 7:30 am,  1-Mile: 9:00

- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

AORTA Toys for Tots 5K and 10K Route Maps

http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

AORTA Auburn Classic Marathon, January 19th

Celebrate the New Year by running the AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon and 10K on January 19th.  We’ve made an exciting change of venue this year which shouldn’t be missed!  Starting at the Auburn University ALFA Agriculture Pavillion, the route will head through the heart of Auburn, wind through the center of the Auburn campus including a pass by Jordan-Hare Stadium, complete an out and back hitting part of last year’s route, then finish back at the ALFA barn.  Don’t miss this one!

Links to Active.com registration and event Facebook page below.

   

* AORTA Auburn Classic Half-Marathon route (link to Mapmyrun.com)
* AORTA Auburn Classic 10K route (Link to Mapmyrun.com)

AORTA Auburn Classic 10K and Half-Marathon Route Maps (pdf files)

                   10K Route                                        Half-Marathon Route

Water Stops - New Procedures!
Thanks to Tracy Buckingham for her outstanding coordination of our Saturday water stops for the past 6 months!  Starting this month, Lori Connors has taken over this important task.  To make it easier and more convenient, she'll be using a web-based tool called Signup Genius.  You may have noticed a new tab above named "Water Stops".  If you take a look, you'll see it provides all the details of how to sign up for a water stop as well as the minimum supplies required to properly setup one up.

Jeff Galloway Running School: Nov 17, 2013
Mark your calendar now!  World-class athlete, member of the 1972 Olympic Team, esteemed running author, Runner's World columnist and founder of Galloway Marathon Training Program, Jeff Galloway will be coming to Auburn on Sunday, November 17th!
When: Sunday, November 17, 2013 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Cost: $99.00 (no cost for current Galloway members)

* Registration is required to attend this informative and motivating workshop.

For more information, contact Tammy Hollis - Program Director at auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week
“When people ask me why I run, I tell them, there’s not really a reason, it’s just the adrenaline when you start, and the feeling when you cross that finish line, and you know you are a winner no matter what place you got.”
   - Courtney Parsons

Video of the Week: Dick’s Sporting Goods - Steve Bell
Born with cystic fibrosis, Steve doesn’t let it stop him from running.
- Every runner has a reason.  (2:42).

Ongoing Events

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed toget just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The current Jeff Galloway training group is close to putting their hard work into action on November 9th during the Soldier Half-Marathon.  We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th during AORTA's regularly scheduled Saturday run at Big Dog Running Co. at 6:00 am but you can still join.  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program. For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: October 28th, 2013

Nominations Needed for our Next VP!

We've received 7 names for our next club vice president but nominations are still open!  Submit nominations by Nov 15th to:  AORTA.WEBMASTER@gmail.com

Online voting will be conducted between Nov 18th to Dec 1st with the winner announced at the Christmas party (date TBD).

Saturday "Halloween" Run
We're down to less than 2 weeks before the Soldier Marathon scheduled for Nov 9th! Because it's also Halloween weekend, we've* worked out special "Halloween" routes around Auburn which pass (in order) Baptist Hill, Memorial Park, Town Creek, and Pine Hill cemeteries!  Our long and short routes are 10.5 and 6.5 miles respectively, though technically it should be an 8 miler if you're following the Hal Higdon Intermediate II plan.  For more details on the Hal Higdon program, click on the logo above.
* Thanks to Brandy McCulloch for suggesting these routes! *

Water Stops - New Procedures!

Thanks to Tracy Buckingham for her outstanding coordination of our Saturday water stops for the past 6 months!  Starting next month, Lori Connors will take over this important task.  To make it easier and more convenient, she'll be using a web-based tool called Signup Genius.  You may have noticed a new tab above named "Water Stops".  If you take a look, you'll see it provides all the details of how to sign up for a water stop as well as the minimum supplies required to properly setup one up.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013
Only 6 weeks left until this year's Toys for Tots race, scheduled for December 7th! You certainly don't want to miss this one, so sign up NOW using either the online link at right (click the logo) or download the registration forms below.  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.
- 10K Registration Form (pdf)
- 5K Registration Form (pdf)
- 1 Mile Registration Form (pdf)

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

AORTA Club Meeting, Nov 4th
The next club meeting will be on Nov 4th at Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.
- Guest speakers: Nicole Agostino and Trudi Hawke from Yogafly Studio.
- Topic: Yoga for Runners
- Discussion: They will discuss the Yogafly Studio, types of classes offered, and how yoga can help keep a person (specifically runners) stay in shape by staying more flexible, less prone to injuries, etc.  And, If we are lucky, maybe they will have time to illustrate a few yoga positions that are beneficial to runners.
- Come join us for this valuable presentation!

Soldier Marathon AORTA Group Photo (Change 1)

All members running the half or full marathon are invited to meet prior to the race for a group photo.  Plan to meet at the statue at 7:30 am ET directly in front of the museum where you check in.  Sunrise will be at 7:04 so we should be good with the light!  Remember that Columbus is an hour ahead of us (Auburn / Opelika) so don't be late!!  :-)

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The current Jeff Galloway training group is close to putting their hard work into action on November 9th during the Soldier Half-Marathon.  We started another training group on Saturday, October 26th during AORTA's regularly scheduled Saturday run at Big Dog Running Co. at 6:00 am but you can still join.  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Jeff Galloway Running School: Nov 17, 2013
Mark your calendar now!  World-class athlete, member of the 1972 Olympic Team, esteemed running author, Runner's World columnist and founder of Galloway Marathon Training Program, Jeff Galloway will be coming to Auburn on Sunday, November 17th!
When: Sunday, November 17, 2013 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Cost: $99.00 (no cost for current Galloway members)

* Registration is required to attend this informative and motivating workshop.

For more information, contact Tammy Hollis - Program Director at auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

1200 Club Members
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

Here are some upcoming opportunities to assist with 2 AORTA sponsored races (Toys For Tots, and the Auburn Half-Marathon) and 1 local race.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Saturday, Nov 02: Girl Scouts Mint Sprint - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Dec 07: Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis
- Saturday, Jan 18: AORTA Classic Half-Marathon: Jane Farr

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week
“People think I'm crazy to put myself through such torture, though I would argue otherwise. Somewhere along the line we seem to have confused comfort with happiness. Dostoyevsky had it right: 'Suffering is the sole origin of consciousness.' Never are my senses more engaged than when the pain sets in. There is a magic in misery. Just ask any runner.” 

― Dean Karnazes
    Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner

Video of the Week: 8 Stages of Marathon Running
From excitement to despair to elation in 26.2 miles!. (2:19).

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: October 21st, 2013

Tough 10 / Tough 2 Wrap-Up!
Congratulations to the 100+ runners who endured the slightly damp conditions to run this year's Tough 10 / Tough 2 which was dedicated to Nick Holler.  Pictured at right are Nick Holler's daughter, Nicole, son-in-law, Luis, and wife, Margaret.  Also present at the race but not in the picture was his sister, also Margaret.  Nick's other daughter could not make it but is a breast cancer survivor.  Nick's wife won her age group in the 2-mile and Luis finished first in his age group in the 10-mile!

Thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers without whom none of this would have been possible.  If any pre-registered folks were unable to pick up their t-shirts, please contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net.

Race results below!
- Tough Ten Race Results
- Tough Two Race Results

Congratulations to Team Isaiah! 
A big thumbs up to Team Isaiah for completing the Chicago Marathon and reaching their funding goal of over $8,700 for the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah Klem and other boys and girls in their fight against cancer!

- Tonya Klem: 4:13:28
- Chris Shook: 4:26:18 (Team Captain)
- Karen Khadadadi: 4:50:53
- Kasey Isenberger: 5:21:14
- Rachel Hammett: 5:31:32
- Penelope Merritt-Price: 5:35:30

Nominations Needed for our Next VP!

The club board is seeking nominations for our next club vice president after our current VP, Bob Banks, takes over the reins as president in January.
   Submit nominations by Nov 15th to:  AORTA.WEBMASTER@gmail.com
Online voting will be conducted between Nov 18th to Dec 1st with the winner announced at the Christmas party (date TBD).

Saturday Runs
As we quickly approach the Soldier Marathon scheduled for Nov 9th, we'll start the 3-week taper with an 11.2 mile run in conjunction with the Hal Higdon Intermediate II plan.  For more details on the Hal Higdon program, click on the logo above.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The current C25K session started Oct 14th but you still have time to join. The group meets every Monday and Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  Group training will culminate with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The current Jeff Galloway training group is close to putting their hard work into action on November 9th during the Soldier Half-Marathon.  If you missed this one, don't despair!  We're starting another training group on Saturday, October 26th during AORTA's regularly scheduled Saturday run at Big Dog Running Co. at 6:00 am.  This group will target the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

AORTA Club Meeting, Nov 4th
The next club meeting will be on Nov 4th at Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.  Our guest speakers will be Nicole Agostino and Trudi Hawke from Yogafly Studio.  They will discuss the Yogafly Studio offerings including types of classes offered as well as how yoga can help keep one (specifically runners) stay in shape by being more flexible.  Please mark your calendar and make plans to join us for what should be a very entertaining and informative evening!

Jeff Galloway Running School: Nov 17, 2013
Mark your calendar now!  World-class athlete, member of the 1972 Olympic Team, esteemed running author, Runner's World columnist and founder of Galloway Marathon Training Program, Jeff Galloway will be coming to Auburn on Sunday, November 17th!
When: Sunday, November 17, 2013 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Cost: $99.00 (No cost for current Galloway participants)

* Registration is required to attend this informative and motivating workshop.

For more information, contact Tammy Hollis - Program Director at auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

AORTA Chapter Presidents Meet

Scott & Laura Walker recently made a trek to Belgium where they were able to meet with the President of AORTA’s German Chapter – Oliver Prigge.  They also met with the Chapter’s Secretary and Treasurer (Nicole & Maxi). 

The meeting was successful as the Presidents of each chapter discussed running, beer, food and running.  They even took time out of their busy meeting schedule to go for a run.

The Prigge family is doing great and they send happy greetings to their Auburn friends.

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Stll undecided whether to sign up for your next marathon?  As a current (that means paid up!) AORTA member, get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

1200 Club Members
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

Here are some upcoming opportunities to assist with 2 AORTA sponsored races (Toys For Tots, and the Auburn Half-Marathon) and 2 local races.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Sunday, Oct 27: Halloween Hustle 5K - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Nov 02: Girl Scouts Mint Sprint - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Dec 07: Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis
- Saturday, Jan 18: AORTA Classic Half-Marathon: Jane Farr

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week

“If you don't have answers to your problems after a four-hour run, you ain't getting them.” 

     - Christopher McDougall

Video of the Week: Running Through Hell
A Weather Channel video describing the challenges 96 racers faced while participating in the Badwater Ultramarathon through Death Valley, California. (2:17).

Featured Events

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: October 14th, 2013

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The next C25K session starts tonight (Oct 14th) at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  The group will meet every Monday and Wednesday (same time/location) culminating with the Toys for Tots 5K run on December 7th.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - This Saturday!

If you missed the online registration, you can pick up a form at Big Dog in Auburn through Friday, or register on race day.  Check out the Tough 10 and Tough 2 routes at links located at right. These are great races for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or training for a half or full marathon.

100% of the proceeds will be given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

* AORTA Members - Please Read *
One of the best pieces of feedback received from participants in AORTA sponsored races is how much they love the food and homemade goodies that are provided on race day.  We would love to continue this tradition … please bring an item you would like to share to the upcoming Tough 10 / Tough 2 race on October 19th.  Feel free to bring the item the morning of the race or if you would like to send something but aren’t able to attend the race, please contact Lori Connors, loriconnors35@aol.com, to make pick up arrangements.  {We kindly ask that you not bring bagels, fruit, or doughnuts, just in case they were on your list.  Thanks for your understanding!}

Hungry runners thank you for your support!

Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register:  Click on the logo below for a pdf file.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

Saturday Runs
This week's "route" is the Tough 10 / Tough 2 race.  If you're still working the Hal Higdon Intermediate II plan,  you'll need to add an extra 10 miles on the 19th  For more details on the Hal Higdon program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The current Jeff Galloway training group is close to putting their hard work into action on November 9th during the Soldier Half-Marathon.  If you missed this one, don't despair!  We're starting another training group on Saturday, October 26th during AORTA's regularly scheduled Saturday run at Big Dog Running Co. at 6:00 am.  This group will be targeting the Rock 'n Roll Half-Marathon in New Orleans on February 02, 2014.  Come join us for a free trial run and to hear more details about the program and how to register.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Jeff Galloway Running School: Nov 17, 2013
Mark your calendar now!  World-class athlete, member of the 1972 Olympic Team, esteemed running author, Runner's World columnist and founder of Galloway Marathon Training Program, Jeff Galloway will be coming to Auburn on Sunday, November 17th!
When: Sunday, November 17, 2013 from 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Where: Big Dog Running Co., Auburn, AL
Cost: $99.00

* Registration is required to attend this informative and motivating workshop.

For more information, contact Tammy Hollis - Program Director at auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

1200 Club Members
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

Here are some upcoming opportunities to assist with 3 AORTA sponsored races (Tough 10 / Tough 2, Toys For Tots, and the Auburn Half-Marathon) and 3 local races.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Saturday, Oct 19: Tough 10/Tough 2 - Summer Vaughan
- Sunday, Oct 27: Halloween Hustle 5K - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Dec 07: Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis
- Saturday, Nov 02: Girl Scouts Mint Sprint - Scott Walker
- Sunday, Nov 03: Paws For A Cause 5K - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Jan 18: AORTA Classic Half-Marathon: Jane Farr

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week
“For me, running is both exercise and a metaphor. Running day after day, piling up the races, bit by bit I raise the bar, and by clearing each level I elevate myself. At least that’s why I’ve put in the effort day after day: to raise my own level. I’m no great runner, by any means. I’m at an ordinary – or perhaps more like mediocre – level. But that’s not the point. The point is whether or not I improved over yesterday. In long-distance running the only opponent you have to beat is yourself, the way you used to be.” 

      - Haruki Murakami, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Video of the Week: Interval Training for Beginners
If you're just starting out and need help with interval training, this video is for you (7:16).

Featured Events

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

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

AORTA News: October 7th, 2013

Team Isaiah *Update*
We're within $125 of reaching our goal this year!  Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon (October 13th) as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  

Team Members
- Christopher Shook                      - Rachel Hammett
- Kasey Isenberger                        - Karen Khodadadi
- Tonya Klem                                 - Penelope Merritt-Price

Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th
Only 2-weeks left!  Check out the Tough 10 and Tough 2 routes at links located in the right-hand column under Saturday Group Runs.  As a reminder, 100% of the proceeds will be given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation. In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

* AORTA Members - Please Read *
One of the best pieces of feedback received from participants in AORTA sponsored races is how much they love the food and homemade goodies that are provided on race day.  We would love to continue this tradition … please bring an item you would like to share to the upcoming Tough 10 / Tough 2 race on October 19th.  Feel free to bring the item the morning of the race or if you would like to send something but aren’t able to attend the race, please contact Lori Connors, loriconnors35@aol.com, to make pick up arrangements.  {We kindly ask that you not bring bagels, fruit, or doughnuts, just in case they were on your list.  Thanks for your understanding!}

Hungry runners thank you for your support!

Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

Saturday Runs
We're dropping down to our "normal" 10-13 miler this Saturday, followed by the Tough 10 / Tough 2 the following week. Just remember that if you're still working the Hal Higdon Intermediate II plan,  you'll need to add an extra 10 that day (Oct 19th)!  For more details on the Hal Higdon program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Stll undecided whether to sign up for your next marathon?  As a current (that means paid up!) AORTA member, get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

1200 Club Members (4th Reminder!)
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

Here are some upcoming opportunities to assist with 3 AORTA sponsored races (Tough 10 / Tough 2, Toys For Tots, and the Auburn Half-Marathon) and 3 local races.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Sunday, Oct 13: Step It Up For Autism - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Oct 19: Tough 10/Tough 2 - Summer Vaughan
- Sunday, Oct 27: Halloween Hustle 5K - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Dec 07: Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis
- Saturday, Nov 02: Girl Scouts Mint Sprint - Scott Walker
- Saturday, Jan 18: AORTA Classic Half-Marathon: Jane Farr

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Weekly Whimsy

Quote of the Week
“When people ask me why I run, I tell them, there's not really a reason, it's just the adrenalin when you start, and the feeling when you cross that finish line, and know that you are a winner no matter what place you got.”

     - Courtney Parsons

Video of the Week: Running Motivation
Running motiviational video (3:25).

Featured Events

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway group has been training hard and preparing to put their hard work into action on November 9th during the Soldier Half-Marathon.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  Although the first class of C25K members recently finished their workups to the Tropical Dog 5K, don't despair!  We'll be starting another one up soon.  Pay attention to this space for details!  The group will (tentatively) meet on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: September 30rd, 2013

Fight the Flu!  Get your shot on Oct 5th
The Clinic on Sixth in Opelika, a minor care clinic run by our very own Brandy McCulloch, will be offering flu vaccinations for adults and infants on Saturday, Oct 5th.  Adult shots will be $20 per person while the pediatric flu shot (not the mist) will be available for ages 6-36 months.  If your child has never had the flu shot, immunization requires two doses given 4 weeks apart.  The first can be given at Big Dog and arrangements made for the 2nd at either The Clinic or back at Big Dog.  The infant serum is more expensive that the adult version.  First shot $25; 2nd shot $15.  For more information, contact Brandy at brandy@cliniconsixth.com.

AORTA winner!
Congratulations to Jake Brewer for finishing first in his age group at the Talladega 21000 Half-Marathon

Saturday Runs
Hope everyone enjoyed last Saturday's Keven Yost, triple hill special!  Sure would have been nice for the route's namesake to be leading the charge, but nooooo…. for some reason, Keven decided to do his long run the day before and sleep in Saturday.
   Get ready for another loooong run this coming weekend!  If you're one of the dozen or so prepping for the Soldier Marathon, the "schedule" technically calls for a 20 miler, so don't sell yourself short and add the extra 1.5 where you can.  Looking ahead, note that the Tough Ten/Tough Two is the official Saturday Run for October 19th so you'll need to add the extra 10 that day!  For more details on the Hal Higdon program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th
OK, so you missed the discount double-take deadline.  So what?  You can still be a part of this annual AORTA tradition!  Check out the Tough 10 and Tough 2 routes at links located in the right-hand column under Saturday Group Runs. These are great races for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or training for a half or full marathon.

One hundred percent {yep, you read that correctly}, of the proceeds are given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

* AORTA Members - Please Read *
One of the best pieces of feedback received from participants in AORTA sponsored races is how much they love the food and homemade goodies that are provided on race day.  We would love to continue this tradition … please bring an item you would like to share to the upcoming Tough 10 / Tough 2 race on October 19th.  Feel free to bring the item the morning of the race or if you would like to send something but aren’t able to attend the race, please contact Lori Connors, loriconnors35@aol.com, to make pick up arrangements.  {We kindly ask that you not bring bagels, fruit, or doughnuts, just in case they were on your list.  Thanks for your understanding!}

Hungry runners thank you for your support!

Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Stll undecided whether to sign up for your next marathon?  As a current (that means paid up!) AORTA member, get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Quote of the Week
“Running! If there's any activity happier, more exhilarating, more nourishing to the imagination, I can't think of what it might be. In running the mind flees with the body, the mysterious efflorescence of language seems to pulse in the brain, in rhythm with our feet and the swinging of our arms.”

     - Joyce Carol Oates

Weekly Whimsy

Little Known Fact

The average men’s finishing time in U.S. marathons is 4:26.

The average women’s finishing time in U.S. marathons is 4:52.

Video of the Week: Derek Redmond
1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics, 400M Semi-Finals (3:15).

Featured Events

Team Isaiah
We're close to hiting our goal this year!  …. Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon (October 13th) as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  Although the first class of C25K members recently finished their workups to the Tropical Dog 5K, don't despair!  We'll be starting another one up soon.  Pay attention to this space for details!  The group will (tentatively) meet on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: September 23, 2013

AORTA Club Meeting, Tonight! (23rd)
Our next highly anticipated club meeting is tonight, at the Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.  The guest speaker will be Lesley Binning, M. Ed Health Promotion, an ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist, Athletic Republic Level III Certified, and RRCA Certified Running Coach.  An accomplished runner and triathlete, Lesley will present the benefits of using a Treadmill Training Program to increase your running efficiency, lactate threshold, strength, speed, mental toughness and self-confidence.  Come join us for this valuable presentation!

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th
OK, so you missed the discount double-take deadline.  So what?  You can still be a part of this annual AORTA tradition!  Check out the Tough 10 and Tough 2 routes at links located in the right-hand column under Saturday Group Runs. These are great races for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or training for a half or full marathon.

One hundred percent {yep, you read that correctly}, of the proceeds are given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

Hope to see you there!

Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Stll undecided whether to sign up for your next marathon?  As a current (that means paid up!) AORTA member, get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Quote of the Week

“It was being a runner that mattered, not how fast or how far I could run. The joy was in the act of running and in the journey, not in the destination. We have a better chance of seeing where we are when we stop trying to get somewhere else. We can enjoy every moment of movement, as long as where we are is as good as where we'd like to be. That's not to say that you need to be satisfied forever with where you are today. But you need to honor what you've accomplished, rather than thinking of what's left to be done."

     - John Bingham
          No Need for Speed: A Beginner's Guide to the Joy of Running

Weekly Whimsy

Little Known Fact
Running is more effective than diet and some medications at reducing your blood pressure.  Running for 45 mins to an hour can decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings by 10-12mgs.  However if your blood pressure is already in the healthy range, it should not measure a change.

Video of the Week: Stop! Look! Listen -- Running Tutorial
Practical tips from Newton Running Co-Founder Danny Abshire (4:16).

Featured Events

Get Fit Selma!
RUN, WALK or TOT TROT at Get Fit Selma! a 5K Run and Community Fun Run/Walk, Saturday, September 28, 2013 in historic Selma, Alabama.  The 5K will kick off the Get Fit Selma! Health & Fitness Festival - a half-day full of health & fitness activities including health screenings, a health vendor’s fair, a kid’s challenge that includes age appropriate physical challenges and an interactive expo with local exercise and fitness instructors.     

http://www.mcraegaineslearningcenter.org/#!fitness-festival/c17bt

Get Fit Selma! will be held at Wallace Community College Selma, 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL 36703.

Register for the 5K and/or the Community Fun Run at Active or at 6:45 am on the day of the Health & Fitness Festival.

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
We're close to hiting our goal this year!  …. Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon (October 13th) as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  Although the first class of C25K members recently finished their workups to the Tropical Dog 5K, don't despair!  We'll be starting another one up soon.  Pay attention to this space for details!  The group will (tentatively) meet on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: September 16, 2013

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th  *Don't Miss This One!*
What are you waiting for?  Sign up NOW and save some $$s before the entry fee goes up on the 20th!  You know you want to do it, so don't delay and click on the ACTIVE logo below.  Sure, you could procrastinate and register later, but you'll be sorrrrry!  Check out the 10 mile route at this link Ogletree/Grove Hill Road route.  This is a great race for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or training for a half or full marathon.

One hundred percent {yep, you read that correctly}, of the proceeds are given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

Hope to see you there!

Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

Mark Your Calendars, Sep 20th
The RRCA (Road Runners Club of America) is promoting the 8th Annual Run@Work and 2nd Annual Run@School days, nationwide fitness efforts.  The goal is to encourage adults and children to get 30-minutes of exercise each day.  Click on the logo for more information!

Fight the Flu!  Get your shot on Oct 5th
Along with the running season comes the dreaded flu season, so now's the time for your annual flu shot!  The Clinic on Sixth in Opelika, a minor care clinic run by our very own Brandy McCulloch, normally offers in-clinic flu vaccines for $25.  If we can get 10 or more interested members (including friends and family), she has offered to set-up at Big Dog after our Saturday run on October 5th at a discounted price of $20 per person.  Contact Brandy at brandy@cliniconsixth.com to sign up for this event.

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Stll undecided whether to sign up for your next marathon?  As a current (that means paid up!) AORTA member, get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Next AORTA Club Meeting, Sep 23rd
Our next highly anticipated club meeting will be next Monday, September 23rd at the Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.  The guest speaker will be Lesley Binning, M. Ed Health Promotion, an ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist, Athletic Republic Level III Certified, and RRCA Certified Running Coach.  An accomplished runner and triathlete, Lesley will present the benefits of using a Treadmill Training Program to increase your running efficiency, lactate threshold, strength, speed, mental toughness and self-confidence.  Come join us for this valuable presentation!

1200 Club Members (3rd Reminder!)
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

We have 3 AORTA races.  The Tough 10/Tough 2, Toys for Tots, and the Half-Marathon.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Tough 10/Tough 2:  Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net.
- Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com.
- Half-Marathon: Jane Farr at hoehaje@auburn.edu. 

Quote of the Week

“Struggling and suffering are the essence of a life worth living. If you're not pushing yourself beyond the comfort zone, if you're not demanding more from yourself - expanding and learning as you go - you're choosing a numb existence. You're denying yourself an extraordinary trip.” 

- Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon, Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner

Weekly Whimsy

Little Known Fact
When runners shorten their stride during a 5km run, the impact from their footfalls is lowered which means that they drop their risk of bone damage by 33%.

Video of the Week: Running is Good For You
The original video of the week was taken down.  Here is a new one. (2:01).

Featured Events

Get Fit Selma!
RUN, WALK or TOT TROT at Get Fit Selma! a 5K Run and Community Fun Run/Walk, Saturday, September 28, 2013 in historic Selma, Alabama.  The 5K will kick off the Get Fit Selma! Health & Fitness Festival - a half-day full of health & fitness activities including health screenings, a health vendor’s fair, a kid’s challenge that includes age appropriate physical challenges and an interactive expo with local exercise and fitness instructors.     

http://www.mcraegaineslearningcenter.org/#!fitness-festival/c17bt

Get Fit Selma! will be held at Wallace Community College Selma, 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL 36703.

Register for the 5K and/or the Community Fun Run at Active or at 6:45 am on the day of the Health & Fitness Festival.

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
We're close to hiting our goal this year!  …. Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon (October 13th) as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The first class of C25K members recently completed their training which culminated in running the Tropical Dog 5K!  But don't worry, we'll be starting another one up soon!  Pay attention to this space for details.  The group will (tentatively) meet on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: September 09, 2013

Saturday Runs
Cooler weather welcomed those who ran the half-marathon+ distance during last Saturday's weekly morning ritual.  Looking ahead, you'll notice a significant increase in miles for the next month-and-a-half for those preparing for the Soldier Marathon in November.  For more information on this program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Exclusive Discount Code for AORTA Members!

Speaking of the Soldier Marathon, here's a great perk for current (that means paid up!) AORTA members.  Get $10 off of the registration fees for any of the races affiliated with the Soldier Marathon (November 9th) including the 5K, Relay Marathon, Half-Marathon, and Marathon.  Contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com to validate your membership and receive your code.  Or… join today to get the discount code for the Soldier Marathon and effectively save $10 off your AORTA membership!

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Mark Your Calendars, Sep 20th
The RRCA (Road Runners Club of America) is promoting the 8th Annual Run@Work and 2nd Annual Run@School days, nationwide fitness efforts.  The goal is to encourage adults and children to get 30-minutes of exercise each day.  Click on the logo for more information!

Next AORTA Club Meeting, Sep 23rd
Our next highly anticipated club meeting will be on September 23rd at the Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.  The guest speaker will be Lesley Binning, M. Ed Health Promotion, an ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist, Athletic Republic Level III Certified, and RRCA Certified Running Coach.  An accomplished runner and triathlete, Lesley will present the benefits of using a Treadmill Training Program to increase your running efficiency, lactate threshold, strength, speed, mental toughness and self-confidence.  Come join us for this valuable presentation!

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th!
Don't miss the fourteenth annual Tough Ten / Tough Two run … ten miles or two miles of fun on the familiar Ogletree/Grove Hill Road route.  This is a great race for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or training for a half or full marathon.

One hundred percent {yep, you read that correctly}, of the proceeds are given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

Hope to see you there!

*New* Link to Tough 10 / Tough 2 Facebook page

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions or want to volunteer to help?
Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

1200 Club Members (2nd Reminder!)
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

We have 3 AORTA races.  The Tough 10/Tough 2, Toys for Tots, and the Half-Marathon.  To volunteer for any of these races, contact the members below:
- Tough 10/Tough 2:  Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net.
- Toys for Tots: Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com.
- Half-Marathon: Jane Farr at hoehaje@auburn.edu.

1200 Mile Club Totals to Date

Quote of the Week

“Running isn't a sport for pretty boys...It's about the sweat in your hair and the blisters on your feet. Its the frozen spit on your chin and the nausea in your gut. It's about throbbing calves and cramps at midnight that are strong enough to wake the dead. It's about getting out the door and running when the rest of the world is only dreaming about having the passion that you need to live each and every day with. It's about being on a lonely road and running like a champion even when there's not a single soul in sight to cheer you on. Running is all about having the desire to train and persevere until every fiber in your legs, mind, and heart is turned to steel. And when you've finally forged hard enough, you will have become the best runner you can be. And that's all that you can ask for.”

- Paul Maurer, The Gift - A Runner's Story

Cartoon of the Week

Little Known Fact

Oprah (yes, THAT Oprah!) ran the Marine Corps Marathon in 1994 in 4 hours, 29 minutes. After finishing, Winfrey said, although making it through was “better than winning an Emmy,” she had no desire to ever run another marathon.

Video of the Week: Trail Running
First Trail running where the streets have no name (4:37).

This week's video features Charl Pieterse running in the Western Cape of South Africa to the music of U2's "Where The Streets Have No Name"

Featured Events

Get Fit Selma!
RUN, WALK or TOT TROT at Get Fit Selma! a 5K Run and Community Fun Run/Walk, Saturday, September 28, 2013 in historic Selma, Alabama.  The 5K will kick off the Get Fit Selma! Health & Fitness Festival - a half-day full of health & fitness activities including health screenings, a health vendor’s fair, a kid’s challenge that includes age appropriate physical challenges and an interactive expo with local exercise and fitness instructors.     

http://www.mcraegaineslearningcenter.org/#!fitness-festival/c17bt

Get Fit Selma! will be held at Wallace Community College Selma, 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL 36703.

Register for the 5K and/or the Community Fun Run at Active or at 6:45 am on the day of the Health & Fitness Festival.

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
We're close to hiting our goal this year!  …. Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon (October 13th) as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for December 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Link to Toys for Tots route below

*New* Link to Blog:
http://aortatoysfortots2013.blogspot.com

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: September 03, 2013

Next AORTA Club Meeting, Sep 23rd
Our next highly anticipated club meeting will be on September 23rd at the Auburn Big Dog Running Co. at 7:00 PM.  The guest speaker will be Lesley Binning, M. Ed Health Promotion, an ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist, Athletic Republic Level III Certified, and RRCA Certified Running Coach.  An accomplished runner and triathlete, Lesley will present the benefits of using a Treadmill Training Program to increase your running efficiency, lactate threshold, strength, speed, mental toughness and self-confidence.  Come join us for this valuable presentation!

AORTA winners!
More outstanding achievements from our club members!
- 2013 Woodland Wallahatchie 5K
   . James Majors: 2nd in Age Group
- 2013 Tropical Dog 5k
   . Beth Nichol: 1st in Age Group
   . Mike Milford: 3rd in Age Group

Alabama 2013 Summer 5th Coolest On Record… Really?!

This summer is reportedly the 5th "coolest" in the past 131 years and 2-degrees below normal.  While that may be statistically true, it seems to me that these so-called meteorologists need to take into account the humidity as a factor when discussing the apparent temperature.  Not sure about you, but after running in 98%+ humidity, I now know what it feels like to be a lobster in boiling water.  Or like running on a treadmill inside a steam sauna.  (Yes, that's how many train for the Badwater Ultra!).  

Join Now and Don't Pay Again Until 2015!
New to the area or holding out from becoming an "official" member? Well, here's some great news!  Any new membership received through the end of this year will be good through 2014.  That means you won't have to pay dues again until January 2015!
- Annual fees are $25 for Individuals, and $30 for Families.
- Click on the box below to download the application form (pdf), fill it in and send it to the address below:

     Mail the completed form to:
     AORTA
     P.O. Box 975
     Auburn, AL  36831-0975

Tough 10 / Tough 2 - Oct 19th!
Join us for the fourteenth annual Tough Ten / Tough Two run … ten miles or two miles of fun on the familiar Ogletree/Grove Hill Road route.  This is a great race for all ages, whether you are just wanting to squeeze in a walk or a run on a Saturday morning, or if you are training for a half or full marathon.

One hundred percent {yep, you read that correctly}, of the proceeds are given to EAMC’s Breast Cancer Foundation.  The center provides education and awareness regarding early detection of breast cancer and offers free mammograms to women who are uninsured,.  In observance of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, participants will be given a pink ribbon to show support and hope for a cure.

Hope to see you there!

When:  Saturday, Oct. 19th
Where:  Ogletree Village
Register: Click on the logo at right to register online or download the pdf file below.

Questions?  Contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net 

* This year's race is in memory of Nick Holler * 

1200 Club Members
A reminder to 1200 club members that to be eligible for the "award" you must volunteer for at least one race per year and supply a water stop on Saturday runs at least 4 times per year.

We have 3 AORTA races.  The 1/2 marathon, the Tough 10/Tough 2, and Toys for Tots.  If you are interested in volunteering for the Tough 10/Tough 2, contact Summer Vaughan at vaughanse@att.net.  For the 1/2 marathon,  contact Jane Farr at hoehaje@auburn.edu.  For Toys for Tots, contact Monica Kennis at monkennis@gmail.com.

Saturday Runs
Although last Saturday's run was changed for safety reasons, we'll be back on the Hal Higdon Intermediate II schedule this week which targets the Soldier Marathon on November 9th in Columbus, GA.  For more information on this program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Galloway Training Group
The Galloway Group is well into their training regime with Tammy Hollis at the helm.  More news to follow, but until then here's a picture from last Saturday's run!  See below for more information.  

Quote of the Week

“Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up, it knows it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve. It doesn't matter whether you're the lion or a gazelle-when the sun comes up, you'd better be running.” 

― Christopher McDougall, Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen

Sign of the Week

Little Known Fact

Ever wondered why old socks smell so much worse than any of your other sweaty clothes?  Human feet have more than 500,000 sweat glands and can produce more than a pint of sweat per day!

Video of the Week: 5K Training Tips for Beginners
First time runner?  Here are 2 simple, yet important, tips to get you started! (3:14)

Featured Events

Swamp Romp… Sep 7th!

If you're up to a 5-mile Mud/Obstacle  adventure run, packed with 20 different obstacles, sign up now for the River Bottom Swamp Romp to be held in Florence, AL on September 7th.  The course is designed to be challenging for those who are looking for trouble but is able to be conquered by those less conditioned.  It’s perfect for everyone…they even have a free kids course!  See additional details by clicking on the logo above or under the "Races" tab!
** Use discount code: runners1 **

Get Fit Selma!

RUN, WALK or TOT TROT at Get Fit Selma! a 5K Run and Community Fun Run/Walk, Saturday, September 28, 2013 in historic Selma, Alabama.  The 5K will kick off the Get Fit Selma! Health & Fitness Festival - a half-day full of health & fitness activities including health screenings, a health vendor’s fair, a kid’s challenge that includes age appropriate physical challenges and an interactive expo with local exercise and fitness instructors.     

http://www.mcraegaineslearningcenter.org/#!fitness-festival/c17bt

Get Fit Selma! will be held at Wallace Community College Selma, 3000 Earl Goodwin Parkway, Selma, AL 36703.

Register for the 5K and/or the Community Fun Run at Active or at 6:45 am on the day of the Health & Fitness Festival.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for Deember 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.
Link to route

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
We're close to hiting our goal this year!  …. Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: August 26, 2013
  *Updated August 27th *

Change to this Saturday's Group Run

Due to the hazardous heavy traffic along Shug Jordan, the routes originally scheduled for this Saturday have been changed to the (new) Tom Lawry series.

AORTA winners!
A few more results from this past weekend…
- Destin, Florida Triathlon
  (1/2 Mile Swim / 20 Mile Bike / 4 Mile Run)

   . Tracey Buckingham: 3rd in Age Group

   . Blake Henry: 17th in Age Group, 85th Overall

   * As if that wasn't enough, Tracey got up the next morning and polished off another 20 mile ride!

AORTA-ians in the News!
As reported in last week's homepage, Jake Brewer with Team Big Dog, set a World Record during the World-Beater All-Beach 10K Race and Relay.  The story appeared in the OA News which you can view in the link via the picture at right. 

Tough 10 / Tough 2
Yes, the T10/T2 is on!  Summer Vaughan has courageously taken on the task of Race Director for this year's race which is now scheduled for October 19th.  Stay tuned for more information in the coming months!

Saturday Runs
Yes, the runs are getting longer but not for the reason(s) some of you may be thinking!  We're simply gearing up for the Fall Marathon Season starting in October (Chicago, Atlanta, New York, etc).  Since many of our club members have shown an interest in running the Soldier Marathon on November 9th in Columbus, GA, these runs are following the distances provided by Hal Higdon's "Intermediate II" Marathon Training Guide.  For more information on this program, click on the Hal Higdon logo above.

Quote of the Week

“People sometimes sneer at those who run every day, claiming they'll go to any length to live longer. But don't think that's the reason most people run. Most runners run not because they want to live longer, but because they want to live life to the fullest. If you're going to while away the years, it's far better to live them with clear goals and fully alive then in a fog, and I believe running helps you to do that. Exerting yourself to the fullest within your individual limits: that's the essence of running, and a metaphor for life — and for me, for writing as whole. I believe many runners would agree” 
  - Haruki Murakami, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running

Little Known Fact
Texting while driving is 6 TIMES more likely to cause an accident than driving while intoxicated!

Safety Tip of The Week
It's no secret that the school year has started and local traffic has risen exponentially. This week's safety tip involves distracted driving… more to the point, texting and driving.  It is also directly tied to this week's video of the week.  That said, we know you are safe and don't use your cell phone while driving (you don't, do you?!!).  But be careful and be on the lookout for those who do… especially while you're running on roads lacking sidewalks.  Statistically, even though everyone realizes that driving while texting is dangerous, the majority of people still do it because… "I'm different and know better.."  Check out the video and hear the stories of those who thought the same thing.  The fact is that cell phones are involved with over a MILLION auto accidents annually.  Don't be a statistic, on either end.

Video of the Week: From One Second to the Next
A documentary released on August 8th by Werner Herzog in partnership with the major cell phone companies AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile and Sprint.  (34:55)  It's a bit long but relays an important message for everyone.

Please encourage anyone you know who texts while driving to view this video.

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Mud Runners!…

If you're up to a 5-mile Mud/Obstacle  adventure run, packed with 20 different obstacles, sign up now for the River Bottom Swamp Romp to be held in Florence, AL on September 7th.  The course is designed to be challenging for those who are looking for trouble but is able to be conquered by those less conditioned.  It’s perfect for everyone…they even have a free kids course!  See additional details by clicking on the logo above or under the "Races" tab!
** Use discount code: runners1 **

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for Deember 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: August 19 , 2013

Tropical Run This Saturday!
One week left to sign up for the upcoming Big Dog sponsored Tropical Dog 5K on Saturday, August 24th.  Starting at 08:00 AM across from Tropical Smoothie Cafe (near the intersection of Glenn and College), the course takes a scenic loop through downtown Auburn where you'll see the returning students enjoying their first weekend of this school year in the "Loveliest Village on the Plains".  Click on the Tropical Dog 5K logo for more information!

AORTA winners!
A few recent races demonstrated the speed and depth of a number of AORTA members as they competed in various races around the local area.

- World-Beater All-Beach 10K Race and Relay.
  . Jake Brewer with Team Big Dog, set a World Record in 42:18!
- Chattahoochee Challenge Duathlon
  . Blake Henry: Overall winner!!
- Chattahoochee Challenge Olympic Triathlon
  . Mac Deshazier: 1st in Age Group
  . Tracey Buckingham: 2nd in Age Group

AORTA Board Meeting Tonight (19th)
The next board meeting is scheduled for tonight, August 19th at 6:30PM at the Tiger Town Brick Oven, 2520 Enterprise Dr, Opelika, AL 36801.

Saturday Run
Although a bit early this year, cool weather along with a gentle breeze and welcoming drizzle was the order of the day for this past Saturday's out-and back run.  An additional surprise greeted the runners at the entrance to Chewacla in the form of the ENTIRE Hill family manning the waterstop!  Since this was serving as a double waterstop, the brief respite gave the runners a chance to recuperate from the unforgiving Chewacla hills.
** Thanks to Gloria Walsh for the picture! **

Little Known Fact
There are 127 dashed lines along the bike lane on Wrights Mill Road just prior to the bridge heading into town.
* Confirmed by last Saturday's runners!

Cross-Training Workouts

Abs and Arms
Looking for additional workouts to augment your running (if not, you should be!).  Join Big Dog Running Company in Auburn on Thursdays at 5:30pm to target your abs and arms in a workout that will strengthen the muscles that most runners neglect!

YogaFit
YogaFit is modern fitness yoga that intertwines fitness moves with basic yoga postures in a heat building and flowing sequence leading to relaxing stretches and a 10 minute rest.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 pm at Big Dog Running Company.  Call 334-209-2580 to sign up for your spot!

Quote of the Week
       "The Miracle isn't that I finished.
              The Miracle is that I had the courage to start."

             - John Bingham
             No Need for Speed: A Beginner's Guide to the Joy of Running
            Website: www.johnbingham.com

Run For Those Who Can't…
Thank to those who have joined IR4 (I Run 4) group which has garnered over 4000 members in just under 7 months!  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Video of the Week: An Unlikely Runner

An interview of Bret Dunlap (4:09) - Bret was featured in the June issue of Runner's World.

Ongoing Events

Thanks to all for your donations up til now.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Mud Runners!…

If you're up to a 5-mile Mud/Obstacle  adventure run, packed with 20 different obstacles, sign up now for the River Bottom Swamp Romp to be held in Florence, AL on September 7th.  The course is designed to be challenging for those who are looking for trouble but is able to be conquered by those less conditioned.  It’s perfect for everyone…they even have a free kids course!  See additional details by clicking on the logo above or under the "Races" tab!
** Use discount code: runners1 **

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for Deember 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

AORTA News: August 12 , 2013

Saturday Run
Kudos to those who endured the hot and humid conditions this past Saturday.  This certainly was a test of everyone's mettle as they trudged through the arduous "detour" around the Moore's Mill bridge re-construction area… which was then followed by the dreaded and infamous "Moore's Mill Hill".  Thanks to those who provided the critical waterstops!

Run For Those Who Can't…
If you viewed last week's video, you've seen how determination and willpower can overcome many of life's difficulties and challenges.  There are many, however, that don't have that option and CAN'T run, no matter what.  Here's a way to support them.  The I Run 4 (IR4) group pairs runners with folks that can't run or even walk.  You get paired with a buddy and take them along on your runs/training/races with pics/posts through the private Facebook page.  Click on the logo to check out the website and lend inspiration to someone special with all of your running adventures.  This costs you nothing and will provide a whole new level of motivation and awareness as well as mental and emotional encouragement for both you and your honorary runner!
** Thanks to Jane Farr for providing this link through AORTA's FB page! **

Tropical Run Signups!
Looking for relief from those looooong Saturday runs?!  Sign up for the upcoming Big Dog sponsored Tropical Dog 5K and take a reprieve on Saturday, August 24th.  Starting at 08:00 AM across from Tropical Smoothie Cafe (near the intersection of Glenn and College), the course takes a scenic loop through downtown Auburn where you'll see the returning students enjoying their first weekend of this school year in the "Loveliest Village on the Plains".  Click on the Tropical Dog 5K logo for more information!

AORTA Toys for Tots 2013 Registration Open Now!

Due to the herculean efforts by Monica Kennis, registration for this year's Toys for Tots, scheduled for Deember 7th, is now active!  This year the race is moving to Auburn High School which means better parking!  In addition, the race will be assisted by the AHS Junior ROTC.  Cick on the AHS logo for map.  There will be 3 races, a 

1 mile race, 5K and 10K.  $10 for the 1-mile, $20 for the 5K and 10K.  All registered runners will receive a long sleeve t-shirt. There will also be awards presented at the end of the races.

  Most importantly, all toys and proceeds will be donated to the Toys for Tots Program and distributed to needy children in the area.

105 Miles!  Really?

Wanna Cross-Train?  Here's your chance!  The East Alabama Cycling Club is sponsoring the 10th annual Johnny Ray Century ride, Saturday, Sept. 28th.   In addition to the century ride, there is a 20 mile, 34 mile and 63 mile ride.  Plenty of great aid stations along the way with very scenic routes.  Cost is only $35 (no matter which ride you choose).  Click on the icon above or find out more by visiting their website: www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com.

Thanks to all for your donations last Saturday to help kick off this valuable event.  If you still want participate, you can still pick-up a green re-usable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project:
http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

Etiquette/Safety Tip of The Week

Run against traffic so you can observe approaching automobiles. By facing on-coming traffic, you may be able to react quicker than if it is behind you.

AORTA Board Meeting August 19th
The next board meeting is scheduled for August 19th at 6:30PM at the Tiger Town Brick Oven, 2520 Enterprise Dr, Opelika, AL 36801.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, is well underway with over a dozen motivated individuals gaining invaluable instruction from Tammy Hollis.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Video of the Week: Running Technique
Proper Running Technique: Running Form Tips and Drills  (5:25)

Ongoing Events

Mud Runners!…

If you're up to a 5-mile Mud/Obstacle  adventure run, packed with 20 different obstacles, sign up now for the River Bottom Swamp Romp to be held in Florence, AL on September 7th.  The course is designed to be challenging for those who are looking for trouble but is able to be conquered by those less conditioned.  It’s perfect for everyone…they even have a free kids course!  See additional details by clicking on the logo above or under the "Races" tab!
** Use discount code: runners1 **

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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AORTA News: August  05 08 , 2013

Saturday's Run  **Caution **
Thanks to Keven Yost for the following caveat about this Saturday's group run. - Moore's Mill Road is closed partially between Samford and Dean where the bridge is being replaced.  The marked detour forces traffic right on Sherwood, left on Heard, then left on Dean back to Moore's Mill.  It will add maybe 0.2 miles and a mean hill.  (But we all love hills don't we?!  :-) Webmaster's comment.)

Happy 75th Alvin!
This Thursday, August 8th, will herald the 75th birthday of Alvin Walls, one of AORTA's most illustrious, and industrious, members.  In the early 80's, Alvin was the race director for the Penny Nickle Run, an on-campus race with an incredible race t-shirt, all for the good-ol'-days price of $5!

He was a member of the 8-man team of senior runners which completed the 125 mile Georgia Relay Race under the ignoble team name of Gnads.  Throughout the race, wives and girlfriends could be heard chanting "Go, Gnads, Go!"  (the G in Gnads is silent!).  As one of our members was quoted, "Alvin became a dirty old man by starting out as a dirty young man"!  Gregarious and charitable, Alvin is often surrounded by a family of friends… mostly of the female persuasion.  In fact, as a younger lad, he was accompanied by his own groupie of "Alvin's Angels", two of whom are still active members.  You'll have to guess who!

Always armed with a radiant smile and reassuring words, Alvin is also noted for his quotable quotes normally combining witty humor and sage advice into such memoralble one-liners as, "Never kick a fresh turd on a hot day."

Still an acrtive member and mainstay of the organization, Alvin can still be seen tearing up the streets of Auburn or hauling the official AORTA trailer to various racing events in the local area.

Happy Birthday Alvin!  We wish you many more!

Saturday's Run
If you didn't notice, the run originally scheduled for this Saturday (August 10th) was changed due to safety concerns around the Camden Ridge area.  It was replaced with Molly's 13 miler.

AORTA Club Meeting Minutes
In case you missed the standing room only meeting last Monday, here's a concise summary of your board's action items:
- Membership is growing quickly.  We're up to 135 members!
- Storage facility for AORTA trailer: In work.
- AORTA club discount cards: In work.  Should be a good selling point for new members!
- Club items for sale on the website: Working to develop an inventory of running goods to be featured online.
- AORTA logo: Work in progress.  Official members will be able to vote on 3-4 proposals to be displayed on the website.  Date TBD.
- Souls4Soles: Big Dog soon to be a collection point for discarded shoes.
- Finances: Approx $12K+ in the coffers.
- Timing systems: Two proposals in work.  Also includes the purchase of a new clock as the current one is getting old and less reliable.
- Support to Food Bank of East Alabama.  See below.
- Website additions: AORTA routes, running calculators (links) - Done.  Check out the links to the various running and fitness calculators in the sidebar!
** For those who attended the meeting, AORTA will not be attending tomorrow's City Council meeting so your presence is not required. **

The AORTA Board unanimously elected to participate in the Food Project of East Alabama. Designed to work in neighborhoods but suitable for any group, the Project will help the East Alabama Food Bank maintain stable quantities of food for those in need in our community. The process is very simple. Those who want to get involved can pick up a green reusable shopping bag at Big Dog.  Each week, buy one (or a few) non-perishable food items when you go shopping.  Store them in the green bag.  Turn the bags in to Big Dog on any Saturday you come to run or really at any time.  Grab an empty bag for the next month.  We will then turn the food in on the 2nd Saturday of each month.  This coming Saturday is the next turn in, so it would be awesome if you could contribute this week and then start the monthly program. 

Thank you for supporting this program!

Here's a link to the Project: http://foodbankofeastalabama.com/food-project/

* New * - Route Catalog!

Given the tremendous number of requests, we've added a new "old" section which features all the current AORTA routes.  It's taken a while to convert all your favorite Saturday run routes to the Big Dog Running Co. starting location as well as to add the many coveted water stop locations.  Check out the new route catalog via the navigator tabs above or click on the graphic at left.  Stay tuned for more!

Mud Runners!…

If you're up to a 5-mile Mud/Obstacle  adventure run packed with 20 different obstacles, sign up now for the River Bottom Swamp Romp to be held in Florence, AL on September 7th.  The course is designed to be challenging for those who are looking for trouble but is able to be conquered by those less conditioned.  It’s perfect for everyone…they even have a free kids course!  See additional details by clicking on the logo above or under the "Races" tab!
** Use discount code: runners1 **

Etiquette Tip of The Week

Never run more than two abreast if you are running in a group. Don’t be a road or trail hog.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, officially got underway this past Saturday morning at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  If you missed the kick off run, you still have a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Video of the Week: Never, Ever Give Up!
The inspring story of Arthur Boorman's incredible transformation.  (4:53)

* The extended version of his story: www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIXOo8D9Qsc (9:20)

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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July 29, 2013

AORTA Club Meeting, Tonight
Come join us tonight at Big Dog Running Club at 7:00 pm for our (somewhat) regular club meeting!  We primarily will be discussing AORTA "business" and updating you on all the behind-the-scene machinations of your board members.

BONUS: Toomer's coffee and cookies!

Saturday's Run… Short...
If you're wondering why last Saturday's run was so short, it's because this past weekend is historically the hottest of the year, averaging 90F+ degrees!  Thankfully it wasn't even close to that.  As an aside, the hottest recorded temperature in Auburn was also during this timeframe at 103F.  OK, it's not the 120F+ degrees that the Badwater 135 folks had to run through, but the humidity still can be crippling.  Regardless, I hope you all enjoyed last Saturday's "short" run… because they're going to start getting longer again!

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, officially got underway this past Saturday morning at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  If you missed the kick off run, there's still time for a few more weeks to come out and join the group!  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Video of the Week: The First Gold
The first Women's Olympic Marathon in 1984 saw Joan Benoit, a few months removed from knee surgery, winning ahead of Grete Waltz.  As a footnote, the longest Olympic "women's" running event prior to that year was the 1500m in 1972!  (5:06)

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

July 22, 2013 (Updated)

AORTA Club Meeting, 29 July
Come join us next Monday at Big Dog Running Club at 7:00 pm for our (somewhat) regular club meeting!  We primarily will be discussing AORTA "business" and updating you on all the behind-the-scene machinations of your board members.
BONUS: Toomer's coffee and cookies!

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts this Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  The program advocates a run/walk approach to training that will keep you injury free and healthy!  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, contact Tammy Hollis at e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Seen any car keys from last Saturday?
One of our esteemed members lost her valet car key (Toyota key with a grey top) during last Saturday's long run.  She ran the course in reverse, but not the stretch from Hamilton/Bend Creek to Big Dog. She covered the section between Moore's Mill and Hamilton/Bend Creek three times now, so it's most likely between the Moore's Mill stop and the end of the route.  If you happen to find it, please contact Heather May through AORTA's Facebook page, or drop it off at Big Dog Running Company (for those without a Facebook account).  Many thanks!!!

Video of the Week (The Tarahumara)
A Hidden Tribe of Superathletes Born to Run (10:37).  I figured this was appropriate following Annette Fredskov's story from last week!

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

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

July 16, 2013

Incredible feet!
What do you think of a 5-hour (11:30 pace) marathon?  Not bad you say?  Doing it on consecutive days?  Still doable… right?!  OK, how about every day for an entire YEAR?!  Wait, there's more.. How about doing a double (yes, 2 marathons) on the last day?  Crazy, right?!!  That's exactly what 41-year-old Annette Fredskov completed yesterday, July 15th.  OK, some of you say that feat has already been accomplished by Stefaan Engels in 2011.  What I bet you don't know, which sets Annette apart, is that she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis three years ago and wanted to prove she could beat the disease.  Her dream was not unfounded and today she's running with NO symptoms of MS... all without any medications.
For those who can read Danish (frankly, I prefer to eat a danish!), here's Annette's blog: www.annettefredskov.dk

Not to be outdone, an Australian couple began their journey on January 1st of this year to complete the same feat.  What makes their story unique is that they are BOTH in their 60s!  I'll check in on their progress at the end of the year.

Do You Believe in the Blerch?!
What do running, skittles, Gladiator (the movie), crunches, tanning beds, Mt. Fuji, hornets, and grape soda have in common?  Find out by checking out this link provided by Penny Merritt-Price which takes one on an introspective journey into the mind of a long-distance runner… who loves to eat!
The terrible and wonderful reasons why I run long distances - The Oatmeal.  

Updates
The AORTA membership list and 1200 Mile club totals have been updated.

Video of the Week (Technique)

Born to Run Coach Eric Orton: Foot Strike and Knee Drive (6:38)

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

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

July 09, 2013

Diēs Caniculārēs
Diēs Caniculārēs, or the Dog Days of Summer, started last Wednesday and lasts through August 11th.  It coincides with the ancient** heliacal (sunrise) rising of the Dog Star, Sirius which also signifies the days of the year with the least rainfall in the Northern Hemisphere.  It's also the time of year that all runners need to heed their need for water.  That said, any of the following symptoms signify severe dehydration and requires immediate medical attention:
   - Excessive thirst
   - Lack of sweat production
   - Rapid heart rate
   - Rapid breathing
   - Fever
   - Continuous complaining
   - Sunken eyes
   - Shriveled skin
   - Dark urine
Complaining?… OK, that was to check if you were paying attention!  Seriously, please make sure you take advantage of the water stops.  :-)

** This is no longer true due to the precession of the equinoxes.

Wanna Set a World Record?

Are you interested in hitting the beach to compete for a World Record?  If so, sign up for the inaugural World-Beater All-Beach10K, a race held 100% on the beach.  Starting at Cotton Bayou State Beach (Orange Beach, Alabama) the race finishes at the public beach in Gulf Shores.  The organizers have applied for World Record certification and believe there will be 3 new World Records at the end of the day – the fastest All-Beach 10K Relay, Individual Man, and Individual Woman.  The race will be held Saturday, August 10^th at 6:45 AM.

Video of the Week
Rick and Dick Hoyt (4:19): Ever complain your legs hurt?…  Count yourself lucky!

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

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

July 01, 2013

Warm and Muggy
Saturday's running weather was quite humid but thankfully the clouds kept the sun from mercilessly beating down on the group.  Heard lots of folks talking about next Saturday's 15 miler with a number deciding to "conveniently" be out of town (your humble webmaster included!)  For those who will be around, Bev will be looking for running mates to endure one of our longer routes this year.  Remember to take advantage of the water stops and hydrate properly! If you need additional motivation, take a look at the Video of the Week below.

AORTA Water Stops Signs!
Ever miss a water stop because you couldn't see it?  Well, no more!  Thanks to Tracey Buckingham, we now have water stop signs that clearly identify those locations which are stocked with water, sports drinks, and sometimes even with fruit!  So look for these during our Saturday morning runs from now on.  If you volunteer for one of the water stops, simply pick up one of these signs at Big Dog, but please remember to return them afterwards.

Video of the Week
Rise and Shine (3:24): Having a hard time waking up and need some motivation?

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Team Isaiah
Help support AORTA members running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event  (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

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

June 24, 2013

Team Isaiah
Help support fellow AORTA club members, Karen Khodadadi, Chris Shook and Tonya Klem, who are running in the Chicago Marathon as Team Isaiah in honor of Isaiah Klem.  Isaiah is a nine year old third grader.  Diagnosed with a medullablastoma brain tumor on Nov. 29th this past year, he underwent a very successful surgery on December 7th.  Isaiah went to Jacksonville, FL  for a specialized type of radiation on January 1st and was finally able to go home to Wisconsin this weekend.

Isaiah is a very sweet and affectionate boy who lives to play soccer. We hope he will be recovered enough from surgery soon so that he can enjoy running again!

Please consider supporting this event (click on the ACS logo or picture) and donating generously to the American Cancer Society to honor Isaiah and help other boys and girls who are fighting the battle of their lives.

Video of the Week

Spirit of the Marathon - Official Trailer (6:29)

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  Click on the Run For The Rings graphic at right or under the "Races" tab above.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

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

June 17, 2013

AORTA Pool Party…. Epilogue

If you were among the few who were out of town or just too busy (or lazy) to attend Thursday's gorgefest at Tracey and Britt's expansive estate, well… you lost out!  Highlights included team AORTA's group ensemble, and future America's Got Talent entry, belting out an Ode to Adam Pugh prior to his inevitable departure from the "The Loveliest Village On The Plains" followed by… Cake!  And who could forget Brandy's self imposed penance (for messing up her water stop) in the form of her trademark "cannonball" from the towering 1-meter diving board.  For those who were lucky enough to scoop up a slice of Laura Walker's sinfully sweet and calorie-laden apple pie or Brandy's devil brownies, it was a night to remember.  Lastly, based on the estimated average 3500 calories consumed by each member, rumor has it that next year's party will include a pre-meal 10K.  Mark your calendar now!

And now… A Word about the Routes
Given the amount of consternation, confusion, complications and general comments that have been received, I felt it necessary to provide a few notes regarding our routes.  Each of the Saturday routes listed in the right-hand column have 2 associated links.  If you simply want to view the routes on your computer, I recommend clicking on the underlined links.  On the other hand, if you desire a hard copy of the routes, click on the PDF symbol and print it at home.

Some more explanation.  The underlined links take you to the specific route on the MapMyRun.com website whereas the PDF symbol provides a link to a pdf file (naturally) of the route.  As most of you have noticed, MapMyRun forces you to create a *free* account to view the route.  This free account allows you to view a detailed route complete with mile markers, water stops, elevation, weather, etc.  On the other hand, you can't print the route unless you sign up for an annual membership which I don't recommend if you want a hard copy of the route.  This is where the pdf links comes into play and provide an easy way to print out the routes, complete with mile markers and water stops.  Note that the pdf routes are NOT the same as those you would get from the MapMyRun website.  MapMyRun printouts do NOT include mileage markers or waterstops.  These pdf maps were photoshopped using the MapMyRun printout headers which were merged with screen captures of the detailed maps.

Video of the Week*
Core Stability for Marathon Training (6:14)

* These weekly (vice monthly) videos will cover a variety of running and fitness related subjects.

Farewell Message from Adam
My Fellow Aortians,I have had a blast running/helping you guys..and gals...these past two years.  Even if at times I wanted to punch some of you. Just kidding...but not really. As my role model Nelly Furtado once said, "All good things must come to an end." My last day as manager of Big Dog Running Co. will be June 21st. I start my new job with Mizuno shortly after.  So please buy Mizuno products from now on. All other brands are crap.

Your very own Linda Christensen will be taking over to bring much joy to the running community in Auburn. Those who are stressing over the future of Big Dogs World Famous Pancakes ®...no need to worry! Jessica has gone through an extensive training regime (which ended with our Trail Race) to bring you the same delicious pancakes you run to love. That, and our pancake manual is thicker than our Big Dog Handbook.

Hope you see you all on the pavement at some point down the road!

Love,
Adam

AORTA Board Meeting June 24
The next board meeting is scheduled for June24th at 6:30PM at the Opelika Brick Oven, 2520 Enterprise Dr, Opelika, AL 36801.

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  Click on the Run For The Rings graphic at right or under the "Races" tab above.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.  For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

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

June 12, 2013

A beloved AORTA member crosses the final finish line.
Thanks to all who came out to run the Nick Holler Memorial routes this past Saturday.  I'm sure he was cheering us on throughout the course!



Weekend Results
Congratulations to the following AORTA members for their performance this past weekend, most notably to Molly Johnson for not only doubling up, but winning both races in her category!

Big Dog Auburn 10K Trail Run
- Drew HIll: 3rd Male 20-29
- Bob Banks: 1st Male 60-99
- Beth Kisor: 1st Female 40-49- Vince Connors: 2nd Male 50-59
- Molly Johnson: 1st Female 60-99

Big Dog Auburn 5K Trail Run
- Drew Hill: 1st Male 20-29
- Mike Milford: 3rd Male 30-39
- Tom Turkington: 3rd Male 40-49
- Lori Connors: 1st Female 40-49
- Molly Johnson: 1st Female 60-99 ** Double Winner! **

Farewell Message from Adam
My Fellow Aortians,I have had a blast running/helping you guys..and gals...these past two years.  Even if at times I wanted to punch some of you. Just kidding...but not really. As my role model Nelly Furtado once said, "All good things must come to an end." My last day as manager of Big Dog Running Co. will be June 21st. I start my new job with Mizuno shortly after.  So please buy Mizuno products from now on. All other brands are crap.

Your very own Linda Christensen will be taking over to bring much joy to the running community in Auburn. Those who are stressing over the future of Big Dogs World Famous Pancakes ®...no need to worry! Jessica has gone through an extensive training regime (which ended with our Trail Race) to bring you the same delicious pancakes you run to love. That, and our pancake manual is thicker than our Big Dog Handbook.

Hope you see you all on the pavement at some point down the road!

Love,
Adam

AORTA Pool Party! June 13th
Tracey and Britt Buckingham have agreed to allow AORTA to invade their home and pool again this year for the annual pool party!  It will be Thursday, 13 June, from 5:30 until 8:30.

- Address: 1802 Ogletree Road.
- AORTA members and their families are invited.
- AORTA will provide burgers (beef, turkey, and veggie), hotdogs, drinks and alcohol.
- Bring your bathing suits (please no speedos - yes, Alvin this is to you!), towels, and a dish to share.  If your last name begins with:
  . A-H: Bring a side dish
  . J-R: Bring a dessert
  . S-Z: Bring an appetizer
** If you plan to attend, please e-mail Monica Kennis and include the total number of attendees.

AORTA Board Meeting June 24
The next board meeting is scheduled for June24th at 6:30PM at the Opelika Brick Oven, 2520 Enterprise Dr, Opelika, AL 36801.

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  Click on the Run For The Rings graphic at right or under the "Races" tab above.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

--------------
June 05, 2013

A beloved AORTA member crosses the final finish line.
Dr. Nick Holler, a 30+-year runner, Boston Marathoner, and former esteemed and inspirational AORTA colleague passed away during the early hours on Tuesday, June 4th at East Alabama Medical Center.  Nick, a retired Professor Emeritus in Biological Sciences and the former 13-year leader of the Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Unit in the Department of Zoology and Entomology, was an avid supporter of AORTA.  He devoted his second career as an ordained deacon and Director of Congregational Care at AUMC for over the past decade.  His love of running coupled with his commitment to nature compelled him to direct the popular Annual 5K Trail Run at the Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve for many years.  Admired for his gentle yet fiercely competitive spirit, he will be sorely missed by the AORTA community.  For those who wish to pay their final respects, visitation times will be Friday, June 7th from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.  Memorial services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday June 8, 2013 at Auburn United Methodist Church, 137 S. Gay St, with an additional visitation an hour prior to the service.
In honor of Nick's commitment to AORTA, this Saturday's run (June 8th) has been changed to the route that was his namesake.

National Running Day June 5th
Held annually on the first Wednesday in June, is a day when runners everywhere declare their passion for running.  Wherever we are and whomever we're with, we run - fast or slow, alone or with others, all over town or just around the block.  It is a coast-to-coast celebration of a sport and activity that's simple, inexpensive, and fun.  It's the perfect way for longtime runners to reaffirm their love or running and for beginners to kick off a lifetime and life-changing commitment.

* In celebration of National Running Day, Fikes Farm is offering Runner's Log for iPhone and iPad FREE from June 3-5.

AORTA Pool Party! June 13th
Tracey and Britt Buckingham have agreed to allow AORTA to invade their home and pool again this year for the annual pool party!  It will be Thursday, 13 June, from 5:30 until 8:30.

- Address: 1802 Ogletree Road.
- AORTA members and their families are invited.
- AORTA will provide burgers (beef, turkey, and veggie), hotdogs, drinks and alcohol.
- Bring your bathing suits (please no speedos - yes, Alvin this is to you!), towels, and a dish to share.  If your last name begins with:
  . A-H: Bring a side dish
  . J-R: Bring a dessert
  . S-Z: Bring an appetizer
** If you plan to attend, please e-mail Monica Kennis and include the total number of attendees.

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  The registration form is available under the "Races" tab above.

Half-Marathon Training Group
The Jeff Galloway training program which targets the Soldier Half-Marathon in November, starts Saturday, July 27th at 6:00 AM at Big Dog Running Co., Auburn.  This is also a 3-day a week supported training program.  Click the icon at right or the following link for more information or to sign up.  Jeff Galloway Training Program.  For additional info, e-mail auburngallowaytraining@gmail.com.

Ongoing Events

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the Big Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th  The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

--------------
June 01, 2013

Hot and Humid is the only way to describe today's run which certainly tested everyone's mettle.  To add to the pain and suffering, it included the dreaded Moores Mill Hill.  On the other hand, Monica's smorgasbord water stop at Tracey's house was a welcome respite from the oppressive weather.  Follow-on routes for the next 4 weeks will be posted here as well as at Big Dog Running where folks could sign-up for water stops well in advance of these runs.

Chicks with Kicks!

Join the BIg Dog Running crew's beginning running program for 9-14 year old girls!  Weekly sessions start on June 4th and will run every Tuesday at 7 pm from Big Dog Running Company, Auburn.

National Running Day June 5th
Held annually on the first Wednesday in June, is a day when runners everywhere declare their passion for running.  Wherever we are and whomever we're with, we run - fast or slow, alone or with others, all over town or just around the block.  It is a coast-to-coast celebration of a sport and activity that's simple, inexpensive, and fun.  It's the perfect way for longtime runners to reaffirm their love or running and for beginners to kick off a lifetime and life-changing commitment.

* In celebration of National Running Day, Fikes Farm is offering Runner's Log for iPhone and iPad FREE from June 3-5.

Run Across Georgia
Please congratulate our fellow team members for their phenomenal courage and commitment to this valuable cause and for serving as outstanding representives of AORTA to our local community!  As one of nine individual participants, Jessica Ridley bravely endured over 165 miles of scorching asphalt before eventually succumbing to a knee injury caused by the ravages of the road.  For the team event, Mary Robbins and Adam Pugh successfully completed the grueling course with Team Dorchak and Team Darkside 2, respectively.  *Addendum: I was remiss in acknowledging Jake Brewer who participated with team Shoelace Express who also completed the course.    Well done to all!
For more info, check out the Run For the Heroes website.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17thThe Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

AORTA Pool Party! June 13th
Tracey and Britt Buckingham have agreed to allow AORTA to invade their home and pool again this year for the annual pool party!  It will be Thursday, 13 June, from 5:30 until 8:30.

- Address: 1802 Ogletree Road.
- AORTA members and their families are invited.
- AORTA will provide burgers (beef, turkey, and veggie), hotdogs, drinks and alcohol.
- Bring your bathing suits (please no speedos - yes, Alvin this is to you!), towels, and a dish to share.  If your last name begins with:
  . A-H: Bring a side dish
  . J-R: Bring a dessert
  . S-Z: Bring an appetizer

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  The registration form is available under the "Races" tab above.

Video of the Month
Running For My Existence

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May 29, 2013

Welcome to our new website!  We've expanded our "Upcoming Races" section, incorporated the "MapMyRun" and pdf files into the routes, added sections on running safety and etiquette, a Video-of-the-Month feature (below), along with a few more changes which we hope you find useful and user friendly.

Links to the Saturday runs are posted on the right-hand column.  The text links are connected to routes located on the MapMyRun.com website.  PDF file links are also available if you desire hard copies.

Run Across Georgia
Well done to all! Please congratulate our fellow team members for their phenomenal courage and commitment to this valuable cause and for serving as outstanding representives of AORTA to our local community!  As one of nine individual participants, Jessica Ridley bravely endured over 165 miles of scorching asphalt before eventually succumbing to a knee injury caused by the ravages of the road.  For the team event, Mary Robbins and Adam Pugh successfully completed the grueling course with Team Dorchak and Team Darkside 2, respectively.  
For more info, check out the Run For the Heroes website.

Auburn Couch-to-5K Program
Beginners - This is the program for you!  C25K is a fantastic program that's designed to get just about anyone from the couch to running 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or 30 minutes.  The group meets on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Company in Auburn.
For more information, e-mail Linda at lc@bigdogrunning.com.

Auburn Summer 5K and 1 Mile Series
June 5th - July 17th
The Auburn High School Cross Country and Track Teams are sponsoring this summer's 5K and 1 Mile run series to be run every Wednesday evening from June 5th to July 17th.  Cost is $50 for all 7 weeks with a Summer Series T-Shirt or $35 (or $5/race) without the T-Shirt.  The discount cost of $20 for kids under 12 for all the races includes a cotton T-Shirt.  Registration will be near the parking lot in front of the AHS Gym while the race start and finish will be near the AHS FIeld House (new gym).  The 1 mile and 5K runs will start at 5:50 PM and 6:15 PM, respectively.  Come out and support the AHS running teams!  See the link to the registration form under the "Races" tab above.

AORTA Pool Party! June 13th
Tracey and Britt Buckingham have agreed to allow AORTA to invade their home and pool again this year for the annual pool party!  It will be Thursday, 13 June, from 5:30 until 8:30.

- Address: 1802 Ogletree Road.
- AORTA members and their families are invited.
- AORTA will provide burgers (beef, turkey, and veggie), hotdogs, drinks and alcohol.
- Bring your bathing suits (please no speedos - yes, Alvin this is to you!), towels, and a dish to share.  If your last name begins with:
  . A-H: Bring a side dish
  . J-R: Bring a dessert
  . S-Z: Bring an appetizer

5K / 1 Mile Run For The Rings: June 28, 2013

Proceeds from this run will benefit the AHS Boys Track and Field team's quest to purchase Championship Rings following their State Championship victory this year!  The run will be held at Richland Elementary School starting at 6:00 PM (1 Mile Run) and 6:30 PM (5K).  The registration form is available under the "Races" tab above.

Video of the Month
2008 Women's 600m Big 10 Championships (2 min, 48 secs)

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May 22, 2013

This will be my last post as webmaster. I’ve enjoyed the job, but can no longer devote the time to it.

Mr. T (Clem) will be stepping into my shoes next week.

AORTA’s annual pool party will be held at Tracy Buckingham’s on June 13^th. Watch the site for more details to come.

Check out these celebrities and the news blurb!

The Auburn Opelika Running & Track Association donated the proceeds from its Auburn Classic Half-Marathon & 10K, sponsored by Edward Jones, to the East Alabama Medical Center Cancer Center. AORTA donated$11,745. Pictured in front (from left) are Scott Walter, AORTA president; Jane Farr, AORTA representative; Brandy McCulloch, AORTA representative; Gail Hall, EAMC Foundation; and Julia Pipes, EAMC Foundation. In the back (from left) are Brandon Rolling, Bill Loosier, Joe Donaldson, Sonya Green and Blake Henry, all with Edward Jones. Jay Greene and Earl Sellers, both with Edward Jones, are not pictured.

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May 14, 2013

AORTA meeting 5/20 @ Big Dog 7:00 p.m.

Our next AORTA meeting is on Monday, May 20th at 7:00 pm – Big Dog Running Co.  Our guest speaker is Dr. Tom Vrbka from Advantage Chiropractic Clinic.  Dr. Vrbka will be discussing the difference between dynamic and static stretching. Prez says that we can coerce him into answering some general questions regarding running injuries.

Here's Tracey's info on THIS Satuday's route (5/18)

5 miles - If you'd like to run shorter, you can run the box - Dean to East University, East University to Gay, water at Town Creek, Glenn to Big Dog.

9 miles - Follow the route to Ogletree/Windway and go back through Grove Hill on Windway and then Grove Hill Road back to Moore's Mill Road. Back to Dean and return to Big dog. Here's that map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com?r=5914804 

Water Stops:
1. Across from Tracey's house - Hmmmm- who could take that?

2. Corner of Ogletree and Wrights Mill Road - need a volunteer

3. Trinity Church - by Amsterdam - water stop will be on the sidewalk by the back door - where we go in for toys for Tots. thanks Beverly Long for volunteering!

4. North Dean and East University. Now I've already gotten a bunch of debate on this. We've put it behind the big brick sign on the Shelton Park side for about 15 years and I'd never heard a complaint. It's been moved to Johnny Bruscoe's to be easier to pick up - but I've gotten complaints about that too. Greg will probably warn you that after too many complaints I'll go into full Dictator mode. So here's what we'll do - who ever claims the stop can decide where to put it - And all complaints can go to them. That said - who wants to do it?????

Thanks folks!

Finally, a note from our Prez:

This past Saturday was a new experience as AORTA handled the finish line at a Paddle Board race on Lake Martin.  Laura Walker, Mac DeShazier and Scott Walker were on hand to time the athletes in the “Paddle for a Purpose” 1-mile and 3-mile paddle board race – benefitting the Children’s Harbor.

*** Sorry about the jacked up post earlier today. I am having technical difficulties. Scott, couldn't get the picture resized. :(

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May 08, 2013

Sorry I'm late...
Info regarding the AORTA meeting from Scott:

Our guest speaker is Dr. Tom Vrbka from Advantage Chiropractic Clinic.  Dr. Vrbka will be discussing the difference between dynamic and static stretching.  I believe we can coerce him into answering some general questions regarding running injuries

Congratulations to the AHS Boys Track Team. They won the 6A State Championship last weekend. I’d like to think that I played a large part in helping them gain this victory, because I run with a number of them on a regular basis. By that I mean they whiz past me a couple of times a week when I am running my 4 mile route. I believe the Girls took 4^th place.

Doug Underwood has started the Summer Swing races for the year. You can click the “Last Lap” icon at the right for more information.

Dan Norton will begin the Auburn Summer Series races June 5^th, at 5:30 for registration and the races will begin at 6:00.

That last sentence reads really awkwardly, but I’m too lazy to fix it…

Tracey Buckingham has taken over as Water Czar. She has begun the impossible task of trying to please everyone by rerouting some of the old favorite routes and aligning them with new water stops. FYI, I think that she’s stalking some of you because a lot of the stops are listed as such, “one door away from Adam Pugh’s house”. So if I were you, I’d check the route each week if you plan to run, because Heaven help you if the route passes your house and you don’t volunteer. That will call for a public shaming on this website.

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April 30, 2013

I have some actual news this week (Part 2)

I have some actual information this week!

Prez Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the OA news last week. In case you missed it, here’s the link.

AORTA held a meeting Monday night. Here’s the info from the Prez:

Your AORTA Board members held another successful meeting last night.  Lots of information discussed,  Here are the highlights:

• Finances – Jane reported that the Auburn Classic Half-Marathon & 10K, which was run in January, raised $11,745 dollars that were donated to the EAMC Cancer Center and $2,783 was raised and donated to the Carly Parker Fund.
• A new and improved website is on the horizon.  Clem has been working hard to get the site up and running – so to speak.  Look for an unveiling around June 1^st.
• Exploring alternatives for equipment storage – including the trailer and the timing clock.
• Most members agreed that we should purchase an additional timing clock.  Our current one is over ten years old and it would be good to have a back-up.
• Discussions of moving to a chip-timing system is still moving forward.  No decisions have been made. 

Thanks to all of our Board Members:   Adahli Massey, Bob Banks, Clem Tanaka, Jane Farr, Lori Connors, Monica Kennis, and Summer Vaughn. 
Scott Walker

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April 29, 2013

I have some actual information this week!

Doug Underwood is starting up the Summer Swing Series again beginning May 7^th at Opelika’s Municipal Park. You can click the “Last Lap” icon on the bottom of the page.

Relay for Life was held this past weekend, with Team AORTA raising 2K! Thanks to Beverly Long, Bob “Nice Guy” Banks, Lori Connors, Molly Johnson, Clem “Future webmaster: Tanaka, and Cap’n Adahli Massey for all of your hard work.

Finally, Big Dog Adam Pugh is participating in a kind, but insane race again. Here’s his info:

Hello,
This Memorial Weekend, I will be embarking on a journey that takes me from my comfy confines of Auburn to once again participate in a 260-mile relay across southern Georgia from Savannah to Columbus to help raise money and awareness for the House of Heroes, a charity that provides assistance to our nation's disabled veterans and their families by making repairs, improvements, and maintenance to their homes at no charge to them. I'll be running with 7 others, each of whom knocks out 6 legs each of around 5.5 miles. Our civilian team is called "Darkside 2". There are also multiple ultra-marathoners running the entire distance solo. As we approach Memorial Day, I write this email asking for your support of our team, the other teams and individuals, and this worthy cause. If you would like to make a monetary donation to our team, please head to http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/adampugh/run-for-the-heroes.

I appreciate your support! 

Thanks,
Adam

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April 21, 2013

Well that was quite the action packed week…

How tough is the city of Boston? They shut the city DOWN and caught that coward!

Again, I believe that I speak for everyone in expressing our gratitude that all of our local runners returned safely and that we continue to keep those injured or slain in our thoughts and prayers.

Please note the route for 4/27 has been changed due to the half marathon being held the same day.

Big Dog will host a 5K for Boston on 4/22. Here’s the info from Adam:

Running stores across America are coming together on Monday, April 22 at 6:30pm (cst), in support of Boston. "Runners for Boston" is a 5K run to bring the running community together to show support for those affected in Boston on April 15.

This t-shirt will be available at our store for $20.00 with 100% of the money going directly to, http://onefundboston.org/. The shirts will be available at the run. Please watch social media and our website for details.

Finally, here's a message from VP Bob Banks, the nicest man in the world regarding running and safety:

  The Most Dangerous Place To Run

If you click and read the article, it states that the most dangerous place to be is beside a driver making a left turn. A-Diddy can attest to that as he was once mowed down by a driver turning left. I was suprised that the article didn't say that Kroger is the most dangerous place in the world to run past. I feel like I am the frog in Frogger when I dash across their entrance with my life flashing before me.

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April 15, 2013

I don't even know what to say...

Thoughts and prayers for all of those affected by the tragedy in Boston today. Thank God our friends are safe, and may everyone find peace and comfort while dealing with this awful event.

http://www.oanow.com/news/national/article_0d89fce4-a607-11e2-a8c7-0019bb30f31a.html

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April 1, 2013

Team Aorta will hold a bake sale in front of Big Dog every Saturday after the scheduled run. Also, on 4/13, Chappy's will donate 10% of their profit to AORTA's Relay for Life team during breakfast hours.

Have you been racing?

There are about 4 races per weekend for the next few weeks, so I know that y’all have been tearing up the roads. Write in and let me know if you’re particularly glad, mad, humiliated, etc… and I’ll write about you.

I am in terrible racing condition right now, but my father heartlessly signed me up to do one anyway. I am not telling anyone which race, and have sworn him to secrecy lest any of my nemeses try to publicly embarrass me. I will also make sure that my name is deleted from any results before I post them on this site. That’s the incredible power that I have as webmaster. BWAHAHAHAHAHA!

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March 27, 2013

It was a ho-ax!

Turns out last week’s report of a runner being assaulted was false, but the advice is still good. Be careful when you run! Be aware not only of the people around you, but also the vehicles.

Prez Scott sent in this email he received regarding a cycling race:

Hello AORTA – There is a big bicycle race coming to Opelika on April 13th.  The organizers are looking for volunteers.  Here is some information regarding the race.  If you’d like more details, contact Grant at:  grant@jamesbrosbikes.com.    To all who are interested in volunteering,              Hi everyone my name is Grant Chaffin.  Most of you know me from James Brothers Bicycles.  I am sending this message to ask for volunteers for the upcoming criterium in Opelika.  This is hopefully going to be a big event for our area.  I say hopefully because without the help of a large volunteer force, it will be hard to make this event a success.     The race will be held on SATURDAY, APRIL 13TH, 2013.  Criteriums are very exciting, spectator friendly, action packed cycling events.  This will most likely be one of the more exciting volunteer gigs that you have ever signed up for. 

The actual racing for this event will be going on from 1:00p.m. until 6:30p.m., and the largest number of volunteers will be needed during this time frame.  Also, the main type of volunteer activity will be COURSE MARSHALL.  This volunteer activity will consist of being posted at a specific street barricade/cones to coordinate the movement of cars and pedestrians on and around the race course.   Thank you in advance for your help!

Grant Chaffin
James Brother Bikes
1684 South College
Auburn, AL 36832
3348210555

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March 20, 2013
Team Aorta will hold a bake sale in front of Big Dog every Saturday after the scheduled run.

Attention Runners -- the following is from the AU Daily:  

POLICE RECEIVE REPORT OF SEXUAL ASSAULT
The Auburn Police Division received a report of a sexual assault of a student late Tuesday (March 19) evening near the edge of campus on Samford Avenue near Hemlock Drive.  This area is away from the heart of campus and isolated from most buildings and parking areas.  The only description that has been given of the alleged perpetrator is a muscular white male with a beard or facial hair. Police have checked the area and will continue to patrol the campus.  Please be aware of your surroundings and use caution when walking or running on or off campus.  Whenever possible, walk or jog with others and remember there is always strength in numbers.

This is good advice.  Runners, be aware of your surroundings.  If running on the road, face the on-coming traffic.  When running at night, always wear reflective clothing or flashers.  Avoid running in areas without adequate lighting.  Also do not wear headphones/earpods when running – this will interfere with your ability to hear someone coming up from behind you, warnings, etc.

News from Monday’s meeting:

(Notes from Board Member Clem)

Thanks to Scott for his experience at the Plains Peanut 5K.  Here's the link to the festival which will be on September 28, 2013.

http://www.plainsgeorgia.com/peanut_festival.html

- Last, but not least, thanks also to Bob for sharing the info on "Air Running".  Here's a link to the article which include a video.
    Running On Air: Breathing Technique

*** I will be in hiding until the first of next week. If you email the site and don’t get a prompt reply, please understand that I am not ignoring you. Consider this the post for the week of 3/25. HAPPY SPRING!

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March 18, 2013

• The next AORTA meeting will be held March 18th @ 7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Co.
• Blake Henry, Tracey Buckingham, and Beverly Smith will be talking about some of the places they have raced and some of their favorite local routes.
• We will also have the clock and the timers on hand for anyone that would like to get a refresher or learn how to use them.
• Hope to see you there.
• Also, a note from former Prez Molly Johnson: Team AORTAs Relay for Life participants will be holding a bake sale after the Saturday runs.  Proceeds benefit the team's contributions to the American Cancer Society.  Donations are also gladly accepted.
  

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March 03, 2013

I'm sorry Amy!

Amy Baker, our computer guru, sent me some information on CAMP, the cycling club I mentioned last week. I cannot find the email now for the life of me. I will do my best to recall what she said. This group has made numerous trails at Chewacla suitable for running or cycling. They also recently received 100K (I think… I know that it was a lot) to create more trails, including one that will be a great one for a long run or a medium ride. That sentence was me covering the fact that I can’t remember exactly how long it will be. I’m sorry Amy! If you resend it, I will post it immediately next time. At my age, I should know better than to rely on my memory. She does all kinds of things to help this site FOR FREE and THIS is how I repay he

Update: She resent it and HERE'S the CORRECT INFORMATION:

Hmm… let’s see.  The club is an official IMBA-SORBA chapter (International Mountain Biking Association & Southern Off-Road Biking Association).  We’ve got our big race weekend coming up April 13^th & 14^th.  Friday night will be packet pick up at James Bros. Bikes, Saturday morning at Chewacla is 5K & 10K trail runs, then Bike Bash Trail Rides, then after lunch there will be a short track race, and Saturday night will be the Criterion Race in downtown Opelika.  Sunday will be the Alabama Mountain Bike Series Cross Country CAT 1, 2, & 3 races at Chewacla.  Most of our events are at Chewacla, and it’s been great working with the park.  The Park Manager is Dell Banks and has been very helpful in making things happen.

We usually have a group ride at least once a weekend, and we’ve been doing group night rides 1-2 times during the week.  That’s right… riding the trails at Chewacla in the dark.  Strap a light on your helmet and go!  In addition to the 15 miles of trail they added last year, the club was awarded a $100,000 grant to make even more improvements.  Some of the plans are a main trailhead (with bathrooms, changing rooms, bike wash, map kiosk), signage throughout the park, skills area with a half pipe, more pump tracks, and they’re going to bring in a professional trail design crew to add about 11-12 miles to the park around the mountain.  All of that will be machine-cut flow-type trail which is super-smooth and super-fast.  Most weekends there’s an official work-day at Chewacla where volunteer crews either create new sections of trail or maintain existing.  The ultimate goal is to have the Auburn/Opelika area be designated an IMBA Ride Center.  That would encompass Chewacla as the main trail system, but also the Lake Wilmore trails (at Ogletree school), the Tuskegee trails, and a few others that are supposedly in the works in Opelika.

It should be mentioned that IMBA and CAMP’s goal is “multi-use trails”.  Runners, walkers, hikers, etc. are definitely all welcome.  I am always pleased to see runners on the trails, and I’ve been seeing more and more lately.  There’s a lot of people putting in a lot of time and effort to both improve the experience for bikers that live here, but also bring bikers to the area.  I am constantly meeting people these days in the parking lot at Chewacla that are from Atlanta or Birmingham and they came down just to ride our trails.

The Celebrate Life 5K was held last week. I understand that 2 Aortains placed first in their age group. Congratulations to Doug Underwood and John Quindry!

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February 24, 2013: President Scott has an update for you

Hello All – 

The AORTA Board members met for our first meeting of 2013.  Lots of information was discussed.  Here’s the breakdown: ·    

    Chip Timing:  this issue has been an on-going topic for some time.  Adahli provided a presentation outlining some options.  The Board has decided to mull it over a while longer and continue our discussion at our next meeting. ·       

 Facebook Postings:  Monica, Adahli and Clem are going to be our new “AORTA Facebook Page Police.”  They will help monitor that ONLY pertinent running, walking, exercise information is posted. ·      

  AORTA member listing:  it was decided that it would be nice to have a link on the AORTA website that will list all of our AORTA members (name only, no personal information will be available).  We will eventually have a link that will list the AORTA Board members and a way to contact them. ·      

  Auburn/AORTA Half-Marathon & 10K:  Jane discussed what actions need to be taken to make next year’s event even more successful, such as additional volunteers and the ability to accept credit card payments during the day-of-race registration.

Mark your calendars.  The next AORTA meeting will be held March 18th @7:00 pm at Big Dog Running Co. Thanks – Scott Walker

One more thing from A-Diddy: The equipment in the AORTA trailer is diminishing. If you have any stop signs, cones, etc… that you have removed from the trailer, please return them to Big Dog. Thanks!

Seriously, we need the equipment returned. Race season is upon us and we have a ton of them scheduled already. If you take something from the trailer, be sweet and give it back.

Amy Baker, the computer guru requested that a race be posted that will be directed by CAMP. This is a cycling group that is literally making trails at Chewacla. I am not familiar with the group, but word on the street has it that they have received money to create these trails. Check out their link on the race calendar for more information. Lots of AORTA members cheat on running and bike a lot, so you might be interested in this group.

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February 16, 2013: Are you looking for a fun race?

I received this email from Grahak Cunnigham informing me of a book that he’s written. Here’s his message:

Dear Aorta,

I was wondering if you would be kind enough to do a blurb of my ebook "Beyond the Marathon: insights into the longest footrace in the world" on your next newsletter or on your website.

Below is the blurb and attached is the cover. It is designed to inspire non-runners and runners alike.

Additionally some clubs are using the book as a competition eg enter the 10km Beach race before.... to win one of three copies of "Beyond the Marathon: insights into the longest footrace in the world", which is fine. Send me a link or cc me on the comp and let me know the email address of who wins and I will get them a copy.

Kind regards

Grahak Cunningham

www.grahakcunningham.com

Now I don’t know what the 10KM Beach race is, so I don’t know how we could hold a competition about it, but I was enthralled by the blurb he included:

Founded in 1997 to exemplify the endless possibilities of the human spirit, the Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race is held every year on a concrete footpath around an 883 metre block in Queens, New York. It is the world’s longest and most grueling foot race.

Running 18 hours a day, from 6:00am to midnight, for 51 days, runners must average a minimum of 60 miles a day (96.6km) to complete the distance. This involves circumnavigating the block 5649 times. Over the duration of the race, runners wear out fifteen pairs of shoes, and their feet swell an extra two sizes. In a typical New York summer, temperatures can reach 40 degrees centigrade with 85% humidity. Competitors must contend with boredom, fatigue, torrential deluges, extreme pain, injuries and sleep deprivation —but most of all, they have to deal with themselves. Outwardly for their efforts they will receive a plastic trophy and a t-shirt; inwardly, they make a lifetime of progress.

Loaded with training tips, anecdotes and race stories, join four-time finisher, West Australian Grahak Cunningham as he takes you on the journey from his first race in 2007 as a multiday novice to his ultimate victory in 2012 where he averaged 71 miles (114km) a day for 43 days, and discover what he learnt along the way. Available from www.grahakcunningham.com, Smashwords or Amazon.

Are you kidding me??????? I didn’t think that real people could do that. I can’t even stand running out of my neighborhood anymore because I’m so sick of it, and I assure you that I haven’t run these streets that much in the 10 years I’ve lived here, much less in 51 days. I can’t even wrap my head around that. So, if you want to attempt a 3100 mile race, I guess you should buy the book.

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Have you worked for Big Dog yet? - February 10, 2013

I think BDRC is slowly hiring all of the AORTA members. First, they employed Beth Eckardt, then Linda C., and now Bob Banks. That was a good move on Adam Pugh’s part since Bob IS the nicest man in the world. I kind of already work for them since Adam is always ordering me to post this race or that race. Mr. Webmaster even made a minor repair at the store this week. I guess my point is if you need a job and you belong to AORTA, I might have a lead for you.

Repost from last week regarding the 2012 1200 Mile Club:

The 1200 Mile Club awards for 2012 are ready.  Award winners can go by Big Dog Running and pick them up.  And, the award winners can contact Scott (walker.scott@basco.com) if they have questions.

The 2013 January 1200 Mile Club results are posted above.

I just added SIX races to the calendar, so if you have a yearning to race your face off this spring, you’re in luck!

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Not a lot of news, - January 27, 2013

So I am keeping some of the same information.

Don’t forget to send in your membership dues. Click the icon on this page, print out the application, and send it in!

Also, now is the time to join the 1200 Mile club. If you would like to be a part of the AORTA 1200 Mile Club, it's easy! Pay your dues so that you ARE a member (required), and then run 1200 miles by 12/31/13! Contact josephcantoine@yahoo.com if interested!

There are lots of races being added to the calendar as 5K season begins. If you are a race director and would like your race posted, I need the following from you before I can honor your request:

Race Name

Race location

Date

Application in .pdf form and/or a link to a web page with the application.

Thanks!

The Half results are linked to the race icon.

The 1200 Mile Club awards for 2012 are ready.  Award winners can go by Big Dog Running and pick them up.  And, the award winners can contact Scott (walker.scott@basco.com) if they have questions.

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How are you feeling Jane? - January 21, 2013

Yay Jane Farr, Auburn Classic race director!

The Auburn Classic Half and 10K went off wonderfully. Around 700 runners participated. I cannot begin to imagine the amount of effort that was required to conduct this race. Many people helped pull it off, so thanks to all that helped, ran, supported, etc…

The results are here: http://www.lightningsportsracing.com/results.aspx

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Keep your fingers crossed... - January 15, 2013

That this actually posts...

I hope that you were able to attend the AORTA meeting on Monday night. Carrie Karkoska, the most beautiful woman I know in real life, spoke about reaching running goals and recovering after runs. I will add more details as I hear of them. Unfortunately, my job likes to schedule meetings on Monday nights too, so I can rarely attend.

If my boss is reading this, I LOVE my job and enjoy EVERY meeting that I am required to attend.

DON’T FORGET THAT THE HALF MARATHON/10K IS THIS SATURDAY!!!!!! Jane Farr and Pheza were the hot radio guests this week to promote the race. If you are registered to run, please check your email as Jane has sent instructions regarding the race course.

If you can volunteer, please let Jane Farr know by posting on the Facebook page, or you can email the site and I’ll notify her.

Prez Scott is looking for people who are willing to help with races.  Here’s what that would entail:

· transporting the AORTA trailer to and from the race;
· charging and setting up the timing clock;
· removing the pull tabs from runner’s bibs; and
· tracking the race time results.

· transporting the AORTA trailer to and from the race; 

· charging and setting up the timing clock;

· removing the pull tabs from runner’s bibs; and

· tracking the race time results.

If you are interested, please contact me (walker.scott@basco.com) and he will provide you with more specific details.

 If you would like to be a part of the AORTA 1200 Mile Club, it's easy! Pay your dues so that you ARE a member (required), and then run 1200 miles by 12/31/13! Contact josephcantoine@yahoo.com if interested!

*** I tried to post several times this weekend, and I had NO cooperation from the interwebs, so sorry about the late update.

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Lots of news... - January 5, 2013

The Next AORTA meeting will be held January 14th at 7:00 p.m. @ Big Dog.

The 2013 1200 Mile Club is beginning. If you are interested, contact Joseph Antoine at
josephcantoine@yahoo.com. You must be an AORTA member to participate.

Speaking of AORTA membership, it’s time to renew yours! The application and address are on the link that says “Join”. Why join? I’m glad you asked, here’s a testimonial from Bank Banks, the nicest man in the world:

When we moved to Opelika in 1977 I was a novice runner logging around 20 miles a week. I somehow was introduced to Don Thaxton, the first real live MARATHONER I ever knew. Don and his wife Ann took me under their wings and stuck an AORTA application under my nose and led me to believe I could be a real live marathoner myself. Within AORTA I found a new world of good folks from all walks of life who shared the common ground of running. Sadly when I blew my knee out in 1980 I left the world of running behind. 
However in 2002 with great encouragement from my youngest daughter, I decided to give running another try. I was delighted to find that AORTA was still in existence and better than ever, though populated with a whole different set of characters. I suppose the great thing we runners share is the lack of pretensions since we know each other at our worst; hot,sweaty, stinky, no make up, just the real people cut down to the core. We run together, encourage each other, share victories and defeats, and push each other to be out best. Who isn't going to thrive in that kind of environment. 
Unfortunately we are also a very cheap bunch of procrastinators, as evidenced by the low number of membership renewals received so far this year. So do us all a favor and go ahead and click the box and fill in your application and send it in now. We all need each other to make 2013 our best year ever.

BOB BANKS   VP

You should join because Bob says to do so.

Keven Yost wrote me regarding the Sandy Hook Charity run. I think that he said it best, so I am just going to copy and paste his message:

There are not really any details for the Sandy Hook run.  I would like a 13 mile route posted for 1/26.  That would just be a regular Saturday morning route and anyone can run, as usual.  For those interested in donating to the Sandy Hook cause, they can register for either a 5K or ½ marathon run (done on the honor system, no time needs to be reported).  A bib will be emailed to them that they can print.  Unfortunately, they have reached their limit on medals, so registrations at this point will not get a medal, but the registration gets donated.  The run on 1/26 can count toward that race, but so could any miles until the end of the month (including the Auburn Half).  For more information, individuals can go to http://www.facebook.com/events/186264894845690/?fref=ts or http://www.active.com/half-marathon/tampa-fl/sandy-hook-elementary-memorial-half-marathon-and-5k-2013 .

I will either post a 13 mile route or you can just run the Half route again.

Speaking of the Half, ARE YOU READY??? It’s next week! Rocking shirts, new route, what more could you ask for?