Athletes Only

Volume 15, Number 3, Fall 2010

• What makes Bernard Lagat Tick?

• Tyson Gay Keeps Rolling!

• Chris Solinsky, David Oliver, Morgan Uceny, Chaunte Howard Lowe and many more!

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• FALL 2

Publisher’s Comments

ON THE COVER: Tyson Gay and Usain Bolt

On Friday night, Aug. 12, I was sitting in the Crystal Palace in East Croydon, near London. It was the first night of the AVIVA London Grand Prix, the only two-day track meet that’s part of the Samsung Diamond League.

CONTENTS James Templeton: What makes Bernard Lagat tick?

The Samsung Diamond League is a 14-event series of track meets around the world. This was the cooperative effort of athletes, agents, meet managers, meet sponsors and the IAAF. Their goal, in this, the first year of the Samsung Diamond League, was to highlight and celebrate the best aspects of our sport.

Tyson Gay: Gay Keeps on Rolling

by Dick Patrick Morgan Uceny, The RBR Interview Kara Patterson: A Perfect Day

by Vicki Oddi/USATF

The meets were held all over the world. Many of the sport’s big stars competed in the various meets, which were televised via cable, local television, and also on the web. I watched the meets on Universalsports.com and also on Russian television.

While I couldn’t understand all of the Russian sportscasters, the coverage was great, so I got to watch all of the races!

On our cover, you see Tyson Gay and Usain Bolt. They ran against each other once, on Aug. 6, in Stockholm at the DN Galen meeting. Tyson got out well, but Usain started a bit better. About midrace, Tyson matched Usain Bolt’s strides, as both great athletes gave it their all on that day. Tyson went into another gear at about 60 meters and by 70 meters, Usain was having a tough time staying up. Usain, the world recordholder at 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay was having A bad day on the track! Tyson Gay powered away and won in 9.84 to Usain’s 9.99. Both athletes showed class afterward by congratulating each other.

LoLo Jones, The RBR Interview The Deep thoughts of James Carney, The RBR interview The RN 2010 Fall Shoe Review ]by Cregg Weinmann Andrew Wheating: Andy's Excellent Adventure

by Larry Eder Wallace Spearmon: His Races Are Won

by AO staff Chris Solinsky: Lessons learned, by AO staff Chaunte Howard Lowe, Two American Records, by AO staff David Oliver: Oliver Twist, by Dick Patrick

The following Friday, I was in London, in the cold, damp London air, wondering what Tyson Gay could run, with Walter Dix in the race. Walter beat Tyson at the Nike Pre. Well, Tyson took off and just did not stop. Walter Dix was with him at about 50, then cramped badly, and Tyson flew to the finish, running 9.78!

I can’t wait until next summer, when Usain Bolt, Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell and who-knows-who-else will line up in Daegu, Korea for the World Championships to see who’s the fastest sprinter in the world. Should be fun!

Larry Eder

Publisher, Athletes Only runblogrun@gmail.com twitter: @runblogrun www.atf.athlete.com 608.239.3785 4

The RN Cross Country Shoe Review, Fall 2010

by Cregg Weinmann Molly Huddle: "2011 will be a whole lot better!"

by Elliot Denmann PhotoRun.Net Athletes Only is produced, published and owned by Shooting Star Media, Inc., PO Box 67, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538-0067; 920.563.5551 phone; 920.563.7298 fax; Christine Johnson, President; Larry Eder, Vice President. Publisher assumes no liability for matter printed. Publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for content of paid advertising and reserves the right to reject paid advertising. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Publisher. Copyright © 2010 by Shooting Star Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publisher. Athletes Only is not related to or endorsed by any other entity or corporation with a similar name and is solely owned

by Shooting Star Media, Inc. Publisher recommends, as with all fitness and health issues, you consult with your physician before instituting any changes in your fitness program.

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

Athletes Only Talks With Bernard Lagat’s Agent.

JAMES TEMPLETON James Templeton is the agent/manager of Bernard Lagat and a small group of world-class athletes, many of them Kenyans. Born in Australia, and now working out of Tubigen, Germany, Templeton has been Lagat’s agent since 1997, and has developed a close personal relationship with Lagat and his coach, James Li. AO publisher Lorenzo “The Magnificent” Eder quizzed Templeton after their paths crossed while attending the 2010 London Marathon.

AO: Why do Kenyan runners excel?

The huge wave of incredible middle-and long-distance runners emerging from Kenya is not a fluke. These athletes benefit from great physiology: pure lean muscle mass and well-developed heart and lungs. Not everyone from the Rift Valley can run; however, there are seemingly thousands who can!

The young people are tough and willing to work hard for an opportunity. In fact it seems that too many are working too hard too early; the successful ones are generally following good programs with a good balance of work and rest However, there are too many young athletes running hard three times a day. That is just too much, and certainly not beneficial over the longer term — even if their bodies can withstand it in the short term.

AO: The recent success of American runners seems to show that focused hard work pays off.

People have always been working hard. However, I think there is now much thought going into the structure of training, and there is great benefit from the professional groups specifically devoted to elite running.

The groups of Alberto Salazar, Jerr y Schumacher and Terrence Mahon (plus the smaller group of John Cook) are highly professional, and their training is from all accounts very good and thorough. I think their focus on elite performance and what is required to be world-class is very important in their recent success.

AO: In your opinion, what general precepts should young American runners, ages 14–19, use in training?

The long-term development of aerobic capacity is very important, and young athletes can begin that process. You don’t just jump into high mileage at the age of 19 at college; I think the foundations take years to develop. I think more effort should be put into running relaxed and fast over varying distances, keeping under control and improving year by year. Young people must enjoy their sport if they are to be motivated and willing to train over a long period.

I think it’s a mistake to train the young too intensely. While the greatest immediate benefit in young athletes comes from more intense intervals, over the longer term this is unsustainable and, I think, counterproductive.

Movement is ver y important; crucial even ... you see ver y few ragged elite runners, very few who overstride, etc. It is important to run efficiently and this can be worked on during the teen years.

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[INTERVIEW] AO: What would you advise American coaches about long-term development of US distance runners?

I would advise them to reduce the intensity of intervals and the number of interval sessions, to increase the aerobic content and to work on form. The concentration should be always on running fast and relaxed. Never straining. While still good work, it should remain enjoyable and enticing and perhaps good fun to be working with a group. If it becomes too much of a chore or young runners become burnt out, you will lose them.

AO: You manage Bernard Lagat. How did he get involved in sport?

Bernard (or Kip, as we call him) came from a family of runners.

His father was a 6-mile runner and his older sister Mary was in particular an inspiration. As a young athlete she ran in the Brisbane Commonwealth Games of 1982 (when Kip was 8) and then had some success later as a road runner. She was an inspiration to him and offered a tremendous amount of encouragement.

Interestingly, Kip was a good young runner, however, not an immediate champion; he laughs at how Daniel Komen used to beat him in schools races. However he persevered over the years, and that has been such an important factor. He was a 1500meter finalist at the 1996 Kenyan Olympic Trials, and then he benefited greatly from going to Washington State University in August that year. That, of course is where he started his great relationship with Coach Li. After a year and a bit to settle in, he ran 3:34 in Europe in 1998 and then 3:30 the following year. He has incredible will-to-win; tremendous ambition, and is not afraid of setting goals and going after them.

AO: What was his training like then?

In the early days in the village it was fairly rudimentar y, you would say—basically getting up early in the morning to run.

When studies permitted, a second run or some sort of basic intervals.

AO: How did his training change when he went to Washington State?

Well, it obviously became far more structured. Coach Li instilled in him the importance of good planning and good, consistent work. From the earliest days, Li was insistent that Kip had a long and great career ahead of him. His body has proven very durable (that 2–3 weeks of Achilles soreness before Beijing is the only real injury I can think of in the 13 years I have known him).

It is all about good work over good periods; not too much intensity of track work but a lot of good hard running and tempo work in the hills.

AO: Tell us about Osaka.

Osaka was an incredible thrill, of course. From a personal perspective, I think the highlight of my management career since I started in 1997. Kip had some stomach issues during May and June in particular, and he had two poor races early in July in Paris and Gateshead. He was of course concerned; however, it came together so nicely for him over the last month or so.

The 10 days before he left for Osaka he looked fantastic. The last session before he left his summer base in Tubingen, Germany, he did four sets of 400 (at 1500 pace), float 200 in 30 seconds, then a fast yet relaxed 200. He did 55–56 seconds, then 25, and it was all so ridiculously comfortable! It was how he looked;

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he could have run seconds faster. Going to Osaka, I knew he would be tough to beat in the 1500; I wasn’t sure how much the oppressive conditions would take out of him by the time of the fifth race (the 5000 final). However, I’ve always thought he’s very tough to beat in championship 5000s.

AO: Tell us about Beijing?

Beijing was bitterly disappointing for Kip and for us all. Honestly, he was in the shape of his life that year; everything had gone perfectly (he won, I think, his first nine races of the year ... and won them all quite comfortably) until he hobbled back from a steady training run in Tubingen 7–8 days after the Trials.

He only missed 3–4 days training in total, but for nearly three weeks it was a constant battle of treatmen. In reality, during that time he was “going for a run” rather than really training. We tried to make the most of it; however, he lost a bit of rhythm and balance. It was desperately disappointing for Kip to miss the 1500 final. He pulled himself together and looked fantastic in the 5000 heats the night after the 1500 (which made me wonder had the rhythm come back, and what might he have achieved the night before?) but the day before the 5000 final he got a “throat thing”(by the end of the Olympic fortnight there are many bugs going through the village) and was far less than 100% health for the final. Bekele ran a great race, and Kip would give it everything he had, but with three laps to go he was running on empty.

AO: What about Berlin?

It’s hard to be disappointed with two medals; however, Berlin was in the end just a little frustrating. He didn’t have a great run in the 1500 semi; didn’t have his customar y rhythm/turnover ... and, I think was just a fraction lacking in confidence for the final, which cost him on the backstraight when he hesitated with 250 to go. He was feeling great all race (you could tell the first 100 that his turnover was back) but hesitated and before he knew it was boxed and out of the running. He flew home (with a great sidestep in the straight) to get third, but he knew immediately that he could have won that day. But that’s how it goes, of course. The 5000 was a great achievement really, given the deep cut in his ankle in the heats. It required four stitches and was very painful. But Kip is nothing if not tough and we all know how close he came to beating Bekele in the final.

You can never complain about two medals, but just can’t help feeling what might have been!

AO: Is Bernard focusing on the 5000 now?

Most likely he will plan to run only 5000 in Daegu 2011 and London 2012. That doesn’t mean he won’t run 1500s any more (as some have interpreted); however, he and Li have slightly restructured training more in favour of the longer work.

Coming back from Doha and the World Indoors, well, I’m not often surprised by Kip ... but let me say I was very, very impressed with his shape! I should just say he looks ver y good.

This will be an interesting year; it’s nice to have a year without a major championship as the focus and Kip has made no secret that it would be great to get the U.S. records at 3000 and 5000.

He was so impressed with Dathan’s great run [the 5000 AR] in Zurich; really, he was thrilled for Dathan. But it has given him a challenge and he would like to have a go at running very fast.

Possibly 12:52 or even 12:50.

Of course, there are not many races you can attempt this and they need to go according to plan with the weather and pacing, etc. Also there is Bob Kennedy’s long-standing 3000 record of

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

[INTERVIEW] 7:30.84. It’s interesting that Kennedy came eigth in that race! Incredible. I don’t think Kip will be coming eigth in a 3000 and still getting the record. It’s a good run but I’m sure it’s within his capabilities also.

Those fast runs would be good this year. People are perhaps thinking of Kip as perhaps mainly a fast finisher these days ... that’s not really the case. He’s run as fast as he’s needed to run to win in recent years ... and without Hicham and Haile (and even Bekele) chasing fast times with good pacing there have been less opportunities for the fast times. With Kip it’s all been about the competition and the wins. OK, this year we’re also thinking more of times because of these records ... and that will be fun.

AO: Tell us about Bernard and his coach?

Bernard has been very fortuitous to have landed with Coach Li all those years ago. It’s nearly 15 years now they’ve been working together ... and of course they know each other so well. Kip has the utmost confidence in James Li and that is so important; so crucial for an athlete–coach relationship. Li is a clever man and totally committed to his coaching and to Kip. And to expand the point, Kip and I are close of course also ... and so are Li and I. I think it works very well. And not to be understated or underestimated is the influence of Gladys, Kip’s wife. She’s been great for Kip. I think the four of us work together very well; I think that Kip has a pretty good support network and that is very good for an athlete.

AO: The 5000m indoor AR was a great race for Bernard.

How did he feel about it?

He felt good; he knew he had a good chance to get the U.S. record and it was something he wanted to do. It was a good race; he led, I think, nine of the laps and then good that Galen put in that good burst with a KM to go. He and coach Li felt he could have run 13:05 or something like that if he needed to. I saw Paul Koech run 13:02.95 in Düsseldorf the week before; I can’t see

him, getting away from Kip nor outsprinting him so I think he might have done something like that in that race. Certainly in Doha you get the feeling his shape is pretty special.

AO: How did you get involved in sport?

I’ve always been involved in sport; played most sports growing up; was a battling 800m runner (attempting unsuccessfully to run under 1:50) and am still a keen golfer and cricketer in Australia. I still run to keep fit; actually my two personal running highlights the last 10 years were (1) a hard hour run with Seb Coe and Ian Stewart in Vienna at Euro Indoors in 2002 (I had broken my big toe playing cricket a month or so before so was a bit short on fitness ... but the pace was quite high and I went to the wall rather than drop back and face the James Templeton and Bernard Lagat derision of Ian!) and (2) with Kip in Brussels 2001 – the morning he ran 3:26 with Hicham. We ran together for 30 minutes; he was just clipping along looking so incredibly relaxed. I told him I hadn’t seen him look so good all year. He gave a wry smile and said he felt great and was going to have a real go at Hicham in the 1500 that night. He did – but his 3:26.34 came up just a fraction short!

Note: On June 4th, Bernard Lagat broke the 5000m AR with his 12:54.12. On September 3rd in Reieti, Bernard Lagat ran 7:29.00 for 3000m, antother AR.

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Tyson Gay Gay Keeps on Rolling, by Dick Patrick Give Tyson Gay credit. He hasn’t let the ascendancy of Usain Bolt affect his approach to sprinting. Gay keeps right on giving his best, and it paid off in August. It might well pay off again in December with a No. 1 world ranking from Track & Field News. First, Gay beat Bolt in a 100 in Stockholm, getting out of the blocks first, hanging on and winning in 9.84 to Bolt’s 9.97.

“Usain is not in his best shape,” Gay acknowledged. “He and I both know he can run a lot faster. He has had his problems with injury and my knee was bothering me. But I’m happy with the win. He is a legend and it’s very important to beat him. It means something for the excitement of the sport. But I did not beat him running 9.5. I beat him running 9.8.”

Bolt’s loss, in his slowest time ever in a 100 final, was enough for him to end his season due to a sore back. But Gay kept on keeping on. He followed Stockholm with an impressive year-leading 100 of 9.78 on Aug. 15 in London against a slight headwind during chilly and rainy conditions.“ The last few weeks have been really great,” said Gay, who ran 9.79 to win in Brussels after Stockholm. “I wasn’t expecting to go that fast in these conditions but I knew I was in good shape and was going to go fast. I think there’s more to come. It’s great to be on top of the world. That’s important to me. I wasn’t necessarily sending a message to Asafa and Usain, I was just running my own race.” Bolt’s management issued this statement: “Usain Bolt was examined [Aug. 9] by Dr. Hans Müller-Wohlfahrt in Munich who found a problem in his lower back. He has a tightness that restricts his ability to generate power in his stride, and continuing to race in this condition could risk injury to his hamstrings or calf muscles. With a view to his future career we believe further treatment to loosen his back followed by a period of rest will be in his best interest. We are delighted to report that the MRI scan on his Achilles tendon showed that it has now completely healed.” Bolt ends his season with bests of 9.82 in the 100, a year-leading 19.56 in the 200 and a 43.58 4x400 relay leg he recorded in March.

You have to wonder what Bolt might do if he gives training priority over his night clubbing. “I always said 2010 would be an easy season for me, so if anyone is to beat me it would be this season,” Bolt said. “The hard training starts in October. The first Monday of October I will be out there working hard, as there will be the World Championships to look forward to.” You also have to wonder what Gay might do if his surgically repaired groin gets back to 100%. Even though he’s not 100%, Gay thought after his London 9.78 that he could improve his PR of 9.69 set last year in Shanghai. “I think so, in those conditions,” Gay said. “My start was on point and normally that’s the worst part of my race. My time in London was a lot more impressive than Shanghai, [which] was not technically good.”

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• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

Morgan Uceny The Interview, by Larry Eder RunBlogRun.com: What’s your first memory of organized running?

MU: 7th grade cross country.

RBR: What do you remember about your first race?

MU I don't remember my first race specifically, but a lot of my junior high races were run boys and girls together, so of course one of my earliest and fondest memories is of beating all of the boys.

RBR: Tell us about your running in high school.

MU: I started off running longer distances and cross country, but eventually quit XC to focus on basketball which led me to race shorter events like the 400/800 on the track. I was part of several relay teams that were top 8 finishers at state and I also won the 800m state title my junior year.

RBR: What was your transition from high school to college like?

MU: Difficult. Track was never my No. 1 priority in high school, so having it be such a major part of my life in college required a lot more commitment than I was used to.

My freshman year was a tough lesson as I didn't even make the Varsity squad. Over the summer I was determined to get back on track and to be more responsible for myself, and the very next season I made indoor NCAAs in the 800m.

RBR: When you first went professional, what surprised you about the difference between college and pro running?

MU: The first year I felt like a fish out of water because it was an entirely new crowd of competitors and I was running for myself, with no team or coach traveling to every meet with me. I felt grateful to be a part of a training group with women who had been competing at the professional level which provided a lot of useful guidance. The actual competitive side wasn't that different.

RBR: What would you tell high school girls about keys to success in high school?

MU: Enjoy what you are doing. Track and XC are sports where you mainly have yourself to rely on which can seem like a lot of pressure at times. Loving what you do makes you work harder and able to enjoy your successes even more.

RBR: What was your biggest mistake in running in college?

MU: My entire freshmen year would have seemed like a giant mistake if I hadn't learned from it, but I did and I think having that experience was very humbling and made me a more committed runner (my freshman year being that I didn't make varsity and wasn't even coming close to my high school PRs).

RBR: What would you tell high school girls about the transition to college?

MU: It's difficult, but being a part of teams and clubs in high school gives you great time management skills which are key in college! It's important just to stay focused on why you are in college and what you want to accomplish there.

RBR: What’s difference between coaching now and in college?

MU: For the first time in my professional career I have a professional coach. We have a group of about 11 athletes, but Terrence [Mahon] does a great job in giving each of us the individual attention we need. Other than the running aspect, Terrence has taught me a lot about the extras, like therapy, drills and exercises that will give us that edge.

RBR: You train at Mammoth. Why? MU: Mostly because the group is here. I basically followed my good friend Anna Pierce out here because of the success she had and I wanted to take my running to the next level.

It's been an interesting experience training at altitude, but all of the lung burn and hard work pays off back at sea level.

RBR: Tell us about your experiences in 2009 World Champs Trials & 2008 Olympic Trials?

MU: World Champs Trials was basically a test of determination for me because I was coming off injury and wasn't in very good shape. The Olympic Trials on the other hand just showed me that I had a lot of untapped potential.

I wasn't confident enough in my abilities but got a taste of what I was capable of when I placed 6th and 4th in the 800m and 1500m, respectively. Now with the work I have been doing I know that I will be breaking and setting a lot of personal records.

RBR: Tell us about the Boston Mile.

MU: The Boston Mile was one of the funnest races I have done. Road races have a very different and fun atmosphere to them. I wasn't interested in running a good time because the weather conditions were already pretty lousy and there are a lot of tight turns, so I just sat in second place for most of the race and then pushed to the front with about 300m to go and ended up with the win.

RBR: What is your favorite race, 800 meters or 1500 meters?

MU: The 800 meters is still my favorite event, but I'm slowly becoming more and more excited about the 1500.

RBR: What do you love about the sport?

MU: I've learned to love the individual aspect of the sport. I am completely accountable for the work that I put in and for the results of it which are extremely satisfying.

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

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Kara Patterson A Perfect Day! by Larry Eder, Quotes courtesy of Vicki Oddi/USATF Kara Patterson had won the last two consecutive javelin national championships. However, although the U.S. has had some tremendous women javelin throwers (Babe Didrikson, Kate “the Great” Schmidt, Karin Smith, Kim Kreiner, to name a few). Kara Patterson was not a household name.

At the 2010 USATF Outdoor Champs, the final event of the Visa Championship series, and on her last throw, Kara unleashed a bombher throw of 66.67 meters/218-8 added 8 feet 1 inch to the previous AR of 64.19/210-7 set in 2007 by Kim Kreiner.

Her series had portended a great throw: in the second round, Kara threw 62.61 meters, or 205-5, and in the fifth round, 62.80 meters, or 206-0. The new AR gave Patterson some global prestige as well: her AR made her the 13th best performer of All Time!

Kara Patterson provided the following quotes in the mixed zone, right after her event, on her perfect day!

On her perfect day and record throw: “I'm really happy. It's my best series ever. Four throws over 200 feet is pretty exciting and this whole season has been a lot about consistency because I'm really focused on always being able to throw that A standard and know that I can make a final at World Championships and Olympics. So I'm very happy with how I did today."

On her record throw, which was her final one: “Well, I've never had the clap start for me in a competition—like what happens in the long jump. And Karlee McQuillen of Penn State got the girls started and then the crowd got into it and I threw the American record. So the little extra energy, I guess, was good."

On throwing into the head wind: “As javelin throwers you always have to be conscious that a head wind means you have to keep the tip down a little and throw straight into it. For women's javelin, that can really help you. I mean Hayward always has a little head wind and last year for USA's, it was kind of the same thing. It was a screaming head wind and if you hit it just right, then it kind of takes it and lifts it up. I was told the wind died down a little bit as I started my approach on my sixth throw, so maybe that helped me out. I'm not really sure."

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• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

LoLo Jones The Interview, by Larry Eder

RunBlogRun.com: How has preparation for this year compared to the last few?

LoLo Jones: My preparation for this year is the same as it is for every year. The only thing I do different is change goals. This year I put a lot of emphasis on Indoors, because it was the only major championship of the year for me. After I broke the American record indoor, I added a goal of trying to break the record outdoor.

RBR: How many training sessions do have in an average week?

LJ: I train 6 days a week. I get Sundays off. I don't do double workouts. Thank goodness Coach Shaver doesn't do that. I'm so not a morning person!

RBR: Once you're in season, say while in Europe, what's your workout schedule between meets?

LJ: I love being in season, because it gives me a a break from the tough workouts back home. Coach Shaver wants [my] legs to be rested for the races so the workouts are pretty easy. A lot of shake outs, a few hurdles. No sprints over a 50. The key to this is I run a lot.

I usually have two races a week. On rare occasions, I've had four races in a week! I rely on my races to keep me in shape. When I have meets in Europe, I usually get 2 days off a week. So I love that added bonus.

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RBR: Would you take us through your pre-race warmup routine?

LJ: Jog 6 minutes, then stretch 5 minutes. Then sprint and drills for 20 minutes. Then, hurdle drills for 10 minutes. Then, spike sprints for 10 minutes. Then, starts over hurdles for next 20 minutes. The last 15 minutes, I rest and check in for race.

RBR: Is that replicated on track workout days?

LJ: Yes. Coach Shaver will have competition workout on two practice sessions of the week. Competition warmup increases as our workouts get easier.

RBR: Besides the physical warmup, is there a checklist of sorts, any series of things you do to get mentally prepared to race?

LJ: Not a checklist. I just try to encourage myself with positive thoughts. Whether that is positive sayings, Bible verses or telling myself little sayings like You can do this [or] You will have a good start.

RBR: What would you consider to be the single most important element of your training? Why? LJ: Learn. If I go through the motions, I will not improve. I have practices where I act like I'm lining up at the Olympic finals. A good quote I live by is Practice doesn't make perfect but perfect practice makes perfect.

RBR: Knowing what you know now, what would you go back and change in your training in high school and college?

LJ: I would watch more professional and college meets. The only race I ever remember watching on TV was the Atlanta Olympics. Now, kids have access to the Internet and can view races around the world for free. It's a great tool to study and wish I would've had it growing up.

RBR: What specific training advice do have for young hurdlers?

LJ: For young hurdlers, I would just tell them to look up races of pro athletes.

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

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James Carney The Deep Thoughts of James Carney! by Larry Eder

When you’re in the right shoe, you love RUNNING more.

James Carney runs a lot of miles each week. He has run 27:43 for 10,000 meters and 2:15.50 for the marathon. He’s one of those guys who could make the jump in one major meet. He’s looking for the perfect race, a race where his training, his spirit and his focus win out. We thought you’d like to see what it’s like near the top. James was fourth in the US 10,000m champs in June 2009.

RunBlogRun.com How did you get involved in the sport?

James Carney: I initially got into running as a way to condition for wrestling. As skinny as I am, I still had to be very conscious of my weight in order to make sure I could make my weigh-in.

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RBR: Did you like cross country best at first, or track?

JC: That's tough to say. I loved XC mostly because running in October is one fine month to run in Pennsylvania. However, I had marginally more success in track and everyone loves doing things at which they are successful.

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RBR: What was biggest mistake you made in high school running?

JC: Not believing in myself and not truly committing myself to the sport until late in my high school career.

RBR: Tell us about your college running.

JC: I first attended Millersville University and slowly developed throughout the years until finally as a senior I took my 5000 meter time all the way down to 14:00 and my 10,000 down to 29:15. Today that wouldn't mean much but 10 years ago that meant you were one of the top guys in college. This gave me hope to keep following the sport and seeing how good I could get. I was fortunate enough to have great coaching in Keith White—someone who is passionate about the sport and my running career. It's invaluable having that kind of support.

Millersville was a good collegiate choice since it eased me into the collegiate system without being thrown into a big-time program. After I graduated, I ran for Penn State while attending graduate school.

RBR: Biggest mistake in college running?

JC: My biggest mistake in college running is the same mistake I make today. I try to do too much and overtrain. Training to my max is a double-edged sword. It has gotten me to where I am now, but sometimes it can be almost detrimental. Finding that balance between overtraining and optimal training is very difficult.

RBR: Tell us about your high school and college coaches. Different relationships as you got older?

JC: Well my high school cross country/track coach was also my wrestling coach (Bob Weaver).

He's a great guy and a real fitness freak. His motto is "I will never ask you to do something in training that I'm not willing to personally do." That really helps on the high school level to motivate kids. Collegiately, I ran for Keith White at Millersville and Harry Groves at Penn State.

Keith and Harry have completely different coaching styles. Keith is really about development and nurturing the talent he gets at the small school. Keith and I had a coach–athlete relationship when I entered college and as my college career ended it had blossomed more into a friend relationship that we still enjoy today. Harry was more of an "old school" coach. He had us running hard all the time with high mileage ... It was no-nonsense and a tough transition, but in the end it was a necessary transition that got me to the next level. ... Currently, I'm in between coaches and writing my own schedule.

RBR: What’s it like being a professional runner?

JC: I always tell people it's stressful and not stressful at the same time. On a day-to-day basis, there’s a fair amount of downtime to rest between sessions so that's relaxing, but when it's time to perform, you better perform. Running is truly a dog-eat-dog world and if you aren't on top of your game, someone is going to take your spot.

RBR: What’s your training like? Fall? Build-up? Sharpening?

JC: In general, my build-up consists of a ton of drills, circuits, core, and mileage. As I build toward competition, I back off the drills, circuits, and core while my mileage stays fairly high.

I feel really flat if I back off too much.

12

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

Š2010 New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.

James Carney, Team New Balance

The 759 was designed for the body in motion, unleashing your inner animal. So lace up a pair, scope out your target and let your spirit run wild. newbalance.com

# $ *5+351&2(* ...

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ach season, the overall direction of the footwear industry is revealed in trends. For more than four years, we’ve reported that companies have been lightening up many of their shoes and this continues. The growing influence of minimalism and “barefoot” running, in conjunction with improved technologies and formulations of components and refined design, has resulted in more shoes with less structure, lighter weight, and fewer motion-controlling features. Our racing shoe reviews have always looked at shoes that feature the least amount of support, weight, or inihibiting features, but this trend extends deeper than ever into the training shoe category. A number of high-mileage shoes have also benefitted from this trend, slimming down without compromising their protective cushioning. And there is a shrinking but significant offering of heavier models that cater to runners who need extra cushioning or even more significant structure to counteract overpronation.

Geometry is another significant trend in the design of running shoes. Attention is being focused on more critical midsole shaping, the flare (depth and shape) of flex grooves, the size and positioning of crashpads, and the ratio between heel and forefoot heights. Along with these considerations, designers and development teams are carefully considering the material of each of these elements, appraising their rebound and dampening effects, in addition to their durability and comfort. The results of this focus on geometry can be seen in two types of offerings: highly engineered models and spare, simplified designs.

These two trends are refining the way that running shoes perform when you take them out on a run, making it easier than ever to find a shoe perfectly suited to your biomechanical and situational needs.

—Cregg Weinmann, Running Network Footwear Reviewer

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In the spring of 1991, it was my great good fortune to meet Emil Zatopek, winner of three Golds at the 1952 Olympics (5000m, 10,000m, marathon) and two medals in 1948 (Gold in the 10,000m and Silver in the 5000m). I was in awe.

After Emil served as our honorary assistant coach at the Ed Adams Invitational in Salinas, my coaching partner Joe Mangan and I drove him to Carmel, California so he could see the beauty of Big Sur. During the drive, there was a twinkle in his eyes as he told us about his friendly rivalry with Alain Mimoun, who finished second to him in numerous European and Olympic championships. It wasn’t until 1956, when Emil had injured himself training for the marathon, that Mimoun was victorious over Emil, and then he waited at the finish line as Zatopek finished an honorable sixth place.

When I asked Emil how he got started running, he told me that he had needed a new pair of boots and that was the prize for winning a local 5K race. So in the cold winter of 1944, Zatopek ran his first race, won, and was given a new pair of boots—a necessary item in the cold, snowy winter in occupied Czechoslovakia.

The right footwear is a necessary item for all runners, no matter what their level. At the Running Network LLC, we’re committed to making that search easier for you with this 2010 Fall Shoe Review. You don’t have to win a race to get a great shoe—you simply need to visit your local running specialty store and try on a variety of shoes until you find the perfect one for you. Best wishes!

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American Track & Field www.american-trackandfield.com Athletes Only www.atf-athlete.com Athletics (Canada) www.otfa.ca Austin Fit www.austinfitmagazine.com California Track & Running News www.caltrack.com Club Running www.rrca.org/clubrunning Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com Colorado Runner www.coloradorunnermag.com Get Active! www.getactivemagazine.com Greater Long Island Running Club’s Footnotes www.glirc.org Latinos Corriendo www.latinoscorriendo.com MarathonGuide.com www.marathonguide.com

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

AWARD WINNERS

BEST SHOE Neutral

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BEST SHOE Performance

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BEST SHOE Motion Stabilizing

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This 2010 Fall Shoe Review is produced independently by Running Network LLC for its partner publications. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matched to the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

FA L L 0 1 0 2

BEST NEW SHOE FALL 2010

BEST RENOVATION FALL 2010

BEST VALUE FALL 2010

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Copyright © 2010 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of Running Network LLC.

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

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Michigan Runner www.michiganrunner.net Missouri Runner & Triathlete www.morunandtri.com Running Journal & Racing South www.running.net RunMinnesota www.runmdra.org RunOhio www.runohio.com Track & Field News www.trackandfieldnews.com USATF’s Fast Forward www.usatf.org USATF–New England’s Exchange Zone www.usatfne.org The Winged Foot www.nyac.org The Winged M www.themac.com Youth Runner www.youthrunner.com

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&).)&6 &).%*53 36732 To runners, “Boston” means the Boston Marathon; the adiZero Boston also takes its name from that race. Taking a page from the minimalist’s design book, it nestles into the adiZero line, the pure performance range of adidas running. The upper is a thin, open mesh with an internal framework of soft, synthetic suede supports and external overlays at heel and toe. A thin layer of foam at the ankle collar and in the tongue only where the laces tie provides just enough padding to secure the shoe comfortably without adding unnecessary weight. The midsole is a resilient chunk of EVA with a surprisingly low-profile feel. The heel is a combination of the effective ForMotion cassette and a substantial crashpad to manage the touchdown. It’s mated to a forefoot of flexible adiPrene+. The result is an effective performance shoe that withstands the demands of high-mileage training.

“Well cushioned, even for daily training. Not bad in the weight department; light enough for faster running. I’ve been very pleased with the performance.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 11.5 oz. (size 11); Women 9.7 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, adiPrene Strobel board (heel)

533/6 81132 The original Summon was a yeoman-like neutral shoe that generated a rather neutral response. The Summon 2 looks to change that with some upgrades and a price reduction. The upper uses a more open mesh—an improvement, to be sure—though it’s just a bit spare on the ankle collar foam. The fit is secure and overlays are well-placed; in fact, the medial side is shored up, especially at the first metatarsal head, though the tradeoff is that it’s not very bunion-friendly. The midsole is the new BioS-257, Brooks’ reliable foam made eco-friendly without compromising performance. In fact, it’s more responsive than the original formulation. The contouring of the foam gives the shoe a much-improved transition through the footstrike and a lower profile appearance. Runners looking for a lightweight, neutral, high-mileage shoe may be well-served by the Summon, honored as our Best Value.

BEST VALUE FALL 2010

“Fit well with good support. Very good cushioning, nice responsive toe-off. Pretty light for a high mileage trainer, though a bit heavy for a performance shoe. A good running shoe, plain and simple.”

Updates the Summon • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–12 • Weight: Men 11.6 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, BioS-257 Strobel board

:.66 0&)* .,-7 The Blade-Light advances the concept behind the UltraNatural Run series, but with a little more heft. Surprisingly lightweight, its appearance may cause concern about handling heavy mileage, but its performance confirms that it can take just about whatever you’re willing to throw at it. It’s very neutral—there’s no extra support in the shoe—and it provides plenty of cushion and great flexibility. The upper features a supportive saddle that keeps the foot centered over the midsole, which is a generous slab of molded EVA that has excellent flexibility. The outersole is minimal (largely exposed EVA) but with carbon rubber in the highwear areas and a forefoot insert of blown rubber and Superfoam assisting the toe-off. What you get is much more than you see at first look—so much so, that the Blade-Light earned honors as our Best New Shoe.

BEST NEW SHOE FALL 2010

“These worked great for me, no matter what kind of running, but especially fast running.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: Men 10.5 oz. (size 11); Women 8.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Superfoam Strobel board

.<823 $&9* 5*(.6.32 The Precision has had a faithful audience through 10 updates and the Precision 11 may be the best yet. The upper is lightweight and the open mesh breathes well. The newly designed eyestay connects to three separate internal straps to cinch the upper where it needs to conform to the foot. A soft, sueded liner wraps the ankle and instep and an Ortholite innersole adds cushioning and comfort. The midsole is AP+, providing a much-improved ride to the shoe that’s further enhanced by an articulated version of the Wave Plate, a re-beveling of the heel, and an additional deflection zone in the midfoot to accommodate a variety of footstrikes and gaits. The outersole has more flex grooves to improve flexibility while maintaining durability in the high-wear areas thanks to the carbon rubber. The performance is perfect for fast running—tempo, speedwork, even some long races—yet durable enough for day-to-day use for the biomechanically efficient, earning it honors as our Best Renovation.

“They fit snug mid-foot and have ample toe room. They feel comfortable and have good cushioning for their light weight.”

Updates the Wave Precision 10 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–11 • Weight: Men 11.0 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

*: &0&2(* The New Balance approach to updates has always been conservative. The overall changes to the 759 appear minor when looked at individually, but in combination, they’re enough to nudge the shoe into the Performance range. The consistent execution, fit, and ride have been little altered, but each of these areas benefits from the industry-wide trend of trimming weight from a shoe wherever it reasonably can. The upper is a wide open mesh outer layer with a fine mesh lining. The overlays have been redesigned, cleverly anchoring the foot to the midsole in a few strategic places while freeing it in the forefoot, providing support while saving weight. The midsole is still ACTEVA Lite with the same basic N-ERGY set-up in the heel, though minor alterations to the components do improve the transition. The outersole is a bit more flexible and maintains the blown rubber forefoot/carbon rubber heel that has worked well in this series. Runners will find the 759 to be a consistent and protective highmileage trainer, which happens to weigh less than one might expect.

“I liked the shoe and the neutral colors. I noticed that NB did not use the ‘crinkly’ laces that tend to stay tied so well. The upper materials are very breathable to help keep my feet dry and cool. They wore well, but the cushioning was about average.”

Updates the 758 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,2E,4E); Women 6–12,13 (2A,B,D) • Weight: Men 11.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, polyurethane Strobel board

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BEST RENOVATION FALL 2010

"! ./* *,&686 The Pegasus has been updated more than twice as many times as the next-longest model series in this review. That’s a lot of work poured into a shoe that continues to reflect the best in materials and know-how. The biggest story of #27 is its weight: It’s almost 5% lighter than last season. The light weight, however, doesn’t undermine its ability to handle the mileage demanded by serious runners. The upper features a routine airmesh with an effective saddle design that secures the midfoot and lines up the foot over the midsole. The midsole features Cushlon for the first time (replacing the stalwart Phylon). Although there’s a bump in price, it matches the bump in value. The outersole—waffle-fill in the forefoot and BRS 1000 in the heel—has excellent durability with traction to match. The sum of these parts adds up to one of the best versions yet of the Pegasus.

“They seemed a little snug [on] the first few runs, but I think now I would say they are supportive. The shoes have a lightweight bounce to them. Very impressed with these shoes—good durability, fit, and cushion.”

Updates the Pegasus+ 26 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 10.0 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

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BEST SHOE Performance Fa ll 2 0 1 0

The Kinvara is the most innovative shoe Saucony has produced this year, and it may well influence its line for some time to come. The philosophy of “less is more” is on full display here. The upper is a gossamer-like, fine mesh over an open mesh liner; the combination is both protective and breathable. Instead of a full ankle collar, twin ovals of memory foam guard each side of the Achilles tendon and provide both secure fit and comfort. The midsole is a new EVA compound with more rubber for increased resilience. An insert of ProGrid Lite in the heel smoothes the touch-down and a tweak to the heel/forefoot ratios— lowering the heel a bit with a generous forefoot—actually improves the overall cushioning as well as provides a more natural biomechanical position. Its combination of innovations and its feather-like weight earned the Kinvara honors as our Best Shoe in the Performance category.

“Nice, secure fit. No slipping in heel even though it has little structure. Light as a feather, surprising how well they work for daily training.

Any reservations I may have had about how light they were have been dispelled by their performance on the road.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 4–13,14,15,16,17; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 7.7 oz. (size 11); Women 6.7 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

%337 "075& &2* Its light weight places the Ultra Kane squarely in the Performance category, but make no mistake about it: This is a full-featured motion stabilizing shoe. The upper takes a cue from their racer, the Ultra Speed, using compression fabric for a skin-tight fit that flexes just enough to give support while still allowing the foot to move. The midsole is a beefed-up layer of full-length Zbound over a high-quality EVA. These dual-density inserts sit on top of each other separated by a carbon shank and work as a unit to stabilize overpronation. The outersole—carbon rubber in the high-wear areas with blown rubber in the lateral forefoot— is segmented and pared back to save weight, while providing traction, flexibility, and comfort. Overall, the Ultra Kane brings stability, cushioning, and performance to runners and triathletes serious about their run.

“Very snug, comfortable, and supportive. Pretty doggone light, especially for the stability and support. Great shoe, I have to say. No real drawbacks for me.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16; Women 6–11 • Weight: Men 10.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

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The Cumulus fills an important role in ASICS’ impressive line of neutral shoes and Round 12 provides the expected quality and cushioning. A larger heel Gel component increases resiliency, and minor changes to the midsole sculpting and outersole adjustments add stability while refining the transition from heelstrike to toe-off. The ride is much the same as before, just more dialed in. The upper is a nice, open mesh and employs HF-welded supports in the open areas and the logo stripes extend back toward the top of the heel. Other overlays have been reduced or eliminated in areas that are now better supported by the alternate methods. The height of the ankle collar has been lowered to reduce possible irritation but the remaining memory foam conforms well. The interior has a plusher feel and forefoot cushioning has been upgraded by changing the 3⁄4-length Solyte Strobel board to full-length. These modifications and additions result in a better shoe, which is welcome news to Cumulus fans.

“Very secure fit, with plenty of padding—maybe more than needed. These have been reliably well-cushioned since the beginning, and I appreciate the ride they provide. They are a bit heavy, but that trade-off seems necessary for the cushioning.”

Updates the Gel-Cumulus 11 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15 (D), 7–13,14,15 (2E,4E); Women 5–13 (2A,B), 6–13 (D) • Weight: Men 13.5 oz. (size 11); Women 11.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board

*0

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The flagship of ASICS’ neutral shoes isn’t what it used to be—it’s better. A men’s size 11 is 5% lighter than last year, the biggest weight loss (0.9 ounces!) among the slimmed-down mid-weight shoes in this review. The upper has retained the stretchy mesh, Biomorphic Fit panels, and asymmetrical lacing, but the individual eyelets have been separated into what ASICS calls Discrete Eyelet Construction to conform to the contours of the foot, improving the fit. The memory foam in the ankle collar has been upgraded in quality and the collar height is lower to reduce the possibility of irritation. The midline flex grooves on the underside of the midsole and as well as those in the outersole have been opened to allow the foot to follow a more natural path in its gait—put simply, the shoe flexes better with the foot. The plush ride, weight savings, and outstanding fit earned the Nimbus 12 our Best Shoe award in the Neutral category.

“I am new to running, but these shoes really give me the desire to run farther than before. I have never worn any shoes more comfortable than these.”

Updates the Gel-Nimbus 11 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16 (D), 7–14,15,16 (2E,4E); Women 5–13 (B), 6-13 (2A,D) • Weight: Men 12.6 oz. (size 11); Women 10.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board

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533/6 -367 The Ghost has evolved on its way to joining the hot-selling Adrenaline GTS as part of Brooks’ Go 2 Series. The upper is a wide open mesh over a smaller mesh inner layer that moves moisture away and ventilates the foot. The pattern used for the upper has changed a bit and those nips and tucks result in a better fit over the foot’s contours. The shoe has gained some weight, a fair tradeoff for better cushioning and a plusher interior. The biggest improvement is the move to Brooks’ sprung last, which is used in the Glycerin and a few other styles. The profile of the forefoot sweeps up, providing a better transition and more energetic toe-off. The midsole is BioMoGo with its durable responsive ride and great flexibility. The HPR outersole and blown rubber forefoot are familiar and provide the expected performance: good traction, durability, and a little cushioning for your high mileage. Runners looking for responsive cushioning and durability in a mid-priced, neutral shoe should consider the Ghost.

“These shoes fit great. I have found them to be the shoe I have been reaching for when heading out for tempo runs, or this morning’s 1200s.

My feet are happy even after 15 miles in them.”

Updates the Ghost 2 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (B,D,2E); Women 5–12 (2A,B,D) • Weight: Men 12.4 oz. (size 11); Women 10.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, S-257 Strobel board

**'3/ 5*1.*5 <75*( The Aztrec was an excellent entry-level, neutral trainer that’s now ready to play with the big boys, thanks to some excellent updating by Reebok. It’ll cost you an additional five bucks, but it’s money well spent. The upper has upgraded foam, improved tailoring, and a redesigned tongue, all improving fit and comfort. The injection-molded EVA midsole gets some help from the DMX Foam Strobel board, which is now full-length, and the ride is more responsive and quick instead of somewhat spongy as it was before. The flex grooves have been reworked and newly configured DMPRTEK provides its measure of cushion, as well as durable traction. The heel has a slightly larger outersole pod to improve medial stability, while the lateral side works with the crashpad to keep the foot from drifting inward. Here, design and execution were accomplished with value remaining front and center in the designers’ vision.

“This shoe is light, stable, with the right amount of cushioning, [at] a decent price. What’s not to like?”

Updates the Premier Aztrec • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 12.7 oz. (size 11); Women 10.8 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, DMX Foam Strobel board

**'3/ 5*1.*5 #*532& 845*1* The Verona has gone through three iterations, each punctuated by methodical improvement. Though not intended for overpronators, the geometry of the midsole is now more forgiving of the efficiency breakdown that can occur with fatigue.

There’s a lateral Shear unit, TPU arches that give a bit on impact and direct the foot from the lateral side, while a convex-shaped medial midsole prevents the foot from rolling inward. The segmented outersole, flex grooves, and lateral crashpad provide additional guidance to the foot for improved biomechanical efficiency, while the DMPRTEK outersole offers durable traction and a bit of extra cushioning. In concert, these changes provide a responsive, cushioned ride. The upper employs a stretch mesh that’s a bit more open for coolness and moving moisture. The tongue has been reshaped and softer lining materials used. The Kinetic Fit Panels are now combined with a SmoothFit interior to improve step-in comfort, even with barefoot use. The midfoot is supported by the saddle created from the Vector stripes. The result is a responsive, mid-weight, mid-priced success story.

“They felt good from the first time I put them on. There’s a lot of padding around the collar. The toe box has a good amount of wiggle room for the tootsies. I felt like I was running (dare I say?) barefoot inside my socks and shoes.”

Updates the Premier Verona KFS 2 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: Men 12.4 oz. (size 11); Women 10.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, DMX Foam Strobel board

&8(32; 53 5.) .)* A bit bulkier than last year, the Ride now offers a plusher ride as the midsole features a larger lateral crashpad and forefoot insert. The midsole compound and ProGrid in the heel are durable and provide cushion without mushiness. The upper has a smaller percentage covered with overlays, favoring HF-welded supports in the interior of the forefoot, with fewer spots that might irritate. The fit is secure where necessary and there’s no slipping in the heel, thanks to memory foam in the collar. A moisture-wicking lining prevents the problems associated with wetness. The outersole has newly configured flex grooves, and what appears to be a more substantial shank (though this is difficult to ascertain due to the nature and placement of the device) which helps keep the foot lined up through the footstrike. The durable carbon rubber heel and the blown rubber forefoot contribute their well-known strengths to the layers of cushioning, providing a plush ride to the Ride.

“Quite a bit of cushioning, evenly distributed. They felt a bit heavy but they’re protective, I’ll say that much for them. They did a good job.”

Updates the ProGrid Ride 2 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 13.1 oz. (size 11); Women 10.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, HRC Strobel board

&5-8 7&'0* 80(581 .)* Though the name doesn’t indicate it, the Stable Ride is an update to last year’s model. What else is the same, you ask? The midsole components—including Karhu’s Fulcrum, here in the stability version—and the outersole are essentially the same.

There are always tweaks, especially in updated shoes, but they’ve left the cushy ride and good transition unaltered. The upper has several improvements, primarily for better fit and comfort. The ankle collar and inside heel area have been smoothed out and combine with exterior heel overlays to offer better support. The logo stripes have been scaled down slightly, and thin, individual HF-welded straps now secure the midfoot to the eyestay to provide support while conforming to the foot. The open forefoot has been maintained, allowing the foot to spread comfortably. The weight is up slightly, but the stable, cushioned ride and secure fit may be just what you’re looking for.

“Fit well from toes to ankles. Good stability and cushiness, but the heel felt a little tippy and took some getting used to.”

Updates the Stable Ride • Recommended for: low- to medium-high–arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 8–13,14; Women 6–11 • Weight: Men 13.8 oz. (size 11); Women 11.2 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

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ASICS Congratulates Kara Patterson on Setting a New AR in the Javelin Throw

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.<823 $&9* 0(-*1; The Alchemy continues to be Mizuno’s most consistent motion stabilizing shoe. The midsole now features the AP+ foam formulation, adding noticeable responsiveness. The forefoot area of the midsole unit has been slightly broadened for better stability and the midsole sculpting allows better articulation with both the ground and the Wave plate. The medial forefoot flex grooves in the outersole have been greatly reduced without inhibiting the transition from heel to toe and the outersole has been even more differentiated by gender: The women’s lateral forefoot is more flexible, while the men’s is a bit stiffer, accommodating average weight differences. New overlays supporting the eyestay wrap the foot better, while the top lateral eyelet is hinged for better customization. The interior sports a new sueded material made even more comfortable by the memory foam ankle collar. The stability, cushioning, and comfort features make the Alchemy 10 Mizuno’s motion stabilizing MVP. “It has a very nice balance of padding and ‘feel’ of the road. My foot feels well protected. After 100 miles, these shoes look and feel brand new. I am pleased to notice that the dark gray collar (lining) around the ankle is a bit more durable than I have seen on most running shoes.”

Updates the Wave Alchemy 9 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (D,2E); Women 6–12 (AA,B) • Weight: Men 13.9 oz. (size 11); Women 11.2 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

*: &0&2(* The 1226 is New Balance’s most performance-oriented motion stabilizing shoe and it updates the 1225 with some reshaping to improve support and secure the midfoot. Cushioning has been optimized by modifying the rubbery heel crashpad, and the 1225’s three small rubbery inserts are now a single, dual-winged unit in the lateral midfoot that acts as a crashpad under the fifth metatarsal. Stability has been dialed in with adjustments to the Stability Web shank support, as well as a new iteration of Stabilicore that’s thicker where the forces are greatest and a bit thinner where they’re less. The outersole has been completely reworked: Flex grooves have been repositioned and there’s a bit more blown rubber in the forefoot that’s die-cut to allow good flexibility. The fit has also been refined with webbing loops running the length of the eyestay that we found to secure the foot a bit better. The result is a stable, well-supported, well-cushioned shoe.

“Initial fit is comfortable and snug. It seems that these have a nicer and softer feel with some ‘squish.’ Remarkably, these don’t have the same clunky feel that I’ve experienced in previous New Balance stability shoes. It’s a good, comfortable shoe.”

Updates the 1225 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with moderate to maximum overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E); Women 6–12 (AA,B,D) • Weight: Men 13.8 oz. (size 11); Women 11.5 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, polyurethane Strobel board

./* 82&5 0.)*

BEST SHOE Motion Stabilizing FA L L 0 1 0 2

The Nike Lunar shoes have been a work in progress, leapfrogging innovation with minor modifications and adjustments. The LunarGlide+ 2 takes the platform and philosophy of the original and refines the final product. The upper has been tailored for a better fit and a new configuration of Flywire in the midfoot provides support that holds the foot securely so it doesn’t slide around inside the open forefoot, a weakness of the initial round. The midsole and ride will be familiar as the Lunarlon foam and components have been retained in their original form. The outersole is essentially unchanged, providing a good combination of traction and durability. The improvements to the upper, the continued great ride, and the welcome price freeze all contribute to earning the LunarGlide+ 2 honors as our Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“Love the way they fit—nice and smooth, and hug your foot and arch. Super light, springy feeling while I run, but they still have plenty of cushion and support. The stability of the shoes is good. They cinch up around my foot nicely and hold it in place quite well.”

Updates the LunarGlide+ • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 12.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel sliplasted, EVA Strobel board

*&50 <81. 63 -.+7 The new IsoShift debuts Pearl Izumi’s new technology called the Graduated Guidance System. This is the most efficient midsole geometry that Pearl Izumi has used in a motion stabilizing shoe to date. It keeps the weight down by using a cradle of second density EVA foam to assist the foot through the gait cycle. The shoe affords plenty of stability with good cushioning that has a bouncy response. The upper has the seam-free construction the brand is known for, along with HF-welded overlays adding a touch of support at the top and bottom edges of the eyestay, and sturdier synthetic overlays in the heel and toe. A new outersole configuration of carbon rubber provides durability and traction. If Pearl Izumi has been a satisfying choice for your training, the IsoShift should be a quality performer for you.

“Fit well; it really secured my foot. Decent cushion, better after a few break-in miles. The stability was about as good as Pearl Izumi has done, and it feels a lot lighter.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with very mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: Men 12.6 oz. (size 11); Women 10.4 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

81& #*(7&2& For Puma, the Vectana ushered in a return to a traditional approach to motion stabilizing shoes and Version 2 irons out some bugs while refining its strengths. The fit has been adjusted, in part by tailoring, in part by the rake of the heel, and the shoe now fits true to size (the original ran about a half-size small). The upper—from the stretchy mesh to the memory foam ankle collar—is still very plush, while supportively securing the foot over the midsole. The cushioning is first-rate, thanks to a combination of components: mostly EVA and a blend of rubber, but the DuoCell unit in the heel contributes, as do the Ortholite innersole and ldCell Strobel board. The M2D (medial second density) extends farther from the arch toward the heel for better stability. The outersole has increased decoupling in the heel to slow overpronation and more segmentation in the forefoot to provide better flexibility for toe-off. The net effect is a plush, stable, high-mileage training shoe.

“Love them. My foot is healing and I upped my miles in these shoes—I liked the stability they provided. I put about 150 miles on these and they still are wearing really well.”

Updates the Vectana • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7.5–13,14; Women 5.5–12 • Weight: Men 14.0 oz. (size 11); Women 11.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, ld Cell Strobel board 9.

=

822.2, *7:35/

&00 -3* *9.*:

Andrew Wheating Andrew's European Vacation, by Larry Eder Andrew Wheating has only been in our sport for 6 years! He has to thank his high school soccer coach, Scrib Fauver, who, amazed that Andrew could run a 5-minute mile in conditioning, suggested cross country. Andrew wasn’t sure, as he was getting razzed about going out for the sport of cross country in his junior year. In 2005, at the USATF Junior Cross Country Champs, Andrew won, in 14:54.01 over the 5000 meter course.

Andrew ran unattached his senior year in high school, Kimball Union Academy, in Norwich, Vermont, as his school didn’t have a track team.

Still, in 2006, Wheating ran 3:54.28 for the 1500 meters, taking 8th in the USA Junior Champs.

So, by the time Andrew finished high school, he had run two cross country seasons and one track season—soccer had been his sport. His 1500m best made him the fourth-best high schooler in the country!

Jeff Johnson, the guy who dreamed up the name Nike in his sleep, and gave

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• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

that name to Nike founder Phil Knight for his little shoe company, is also a very good track coach. Jeff Johnson found out about Andrew from the high school soccer coach, encouraged Oregon track mentor Vinn Lananna to bring Wheating to Oregon. Vinn made Wheating a Duck, and the rest, is, well, track history.

In his first season as a Duck, Andrew ran 1:50.17 for 800 meters, 3:45.17 for 1500 meters and 14:55.28 for 5,000 meters. He was ranked 7th in the 1500 meters in the U.S. Vinn Lananna, in discussing Andrew to Sports Illustrated writer Tim Leydon, noted that "Andrew has a huge aerobic capacity." In Lananna speak, that means, Vinn built the guy up from running 30 minutes at a time to being able to run over 8000m and 10,000m cross country courses in 2007 (he had red shirted his freshman cross country season).

In his sophomore year, Andrew moved up from 7th at the NCAA 800 meter final to 2nd, running a superb 1:46.23! In the semis of the Olympic Trials, Andrew ran 1:45.32, then, in the final, he chased down all but Nick Symmonds, who won the Olympic Trials. Wheating, with 15,000 screaming Duck fans pushing him down the final straight, ran 1:45.03! With Christian Smith in third, it was an all Oregon 800 meter team. Andrew told the press then, "The first thing I saw was that Nick was first, I was second and Christian was 3rd … give me a couple of minutes and I'll probably shoot up out of this chair and scream, 'I made it!’"

In his junior and senior years, Wheating made his presence known in collegiate competition, winning the NCAA title at 800 meters in 2009 and 2010. In 2010, Andrew won both the 800 meters and the 1500 meters at the NCAA, becoming the first man in NCAA Division 1 to complete that double since fellow Oregon Duck Joaquim Cruz won both in 1984. (Cruz won the 800 meters in 1984 Olympics.)

But is was the summer of 2010 where Andrew showed his stuff. At the Nike Pre Classic, on July 3, Andrew ran 3:51.74 for the mile, setting a new school record (held by, you guessed it, Joaquim Cruz, in 3:53.00)!

Wheating, at 6 foot 5 inches (1.95m) and 175 lbs. (79 kg) is a big guy, with a huge aerobic capacity, a killer kick and, most important, Andrew likes to race!

On July 22, in Monaco, Andrew Wheating finished 4th in the 1500 meters, running 3:30.90. He was finally racing with the big boys, and all four broke the world leading mark, up to that day of 3:31.92. This was his personal best by 7 seconds. The time also made Wheating the 4th fastest mark in U.S. History!

Aug. 13 found Andrew at the AVIVA London GP, a two-day meeting on the Samsung Diamond League tour. Wheating was running the 800 meters against Abubaker Kaki, the Sudanese superstar who found the hard-charging giant American too close for comfort. Wheating ran a personal best for the 800 meters of 1:44.56, taking 2nd in that race!

After that, Andrew called it a season and went home to Norwich, Vermont. If you get a chance, read the piece by Tim Leydon in the Sept. 20 issue of Sports Illustrated on Andrew, it’s a tremendous article.

But, Andy, as his friends call him, is human. In the SI story, Lananna speaks of a workout Wheating did before he left for Europe: 400-400-300, 5 minutes rest between each, in 50.0, 50.2 and 36.0. Lananna knew that Andrew would run fast, Wheating was just trying not puke.

Over in Europe, Andy ran a 500 meters-300 meters-200 meters. Wheating hit the 500 meters in 1:04, the 300 meters in 36 something and a 200 meters in 23 flat!

How good is Andrew Wheating? The guy can run you down with a slow early pace, and can accelerate off a fast pace. Ignore the times, win races, get a few medals for the bureau. Wheating has the tools to race globally at 800 meters to 1500 meters. Next summer, between Wheating and Symmonds, the AR of 1:42.60 is gone. But, with Wheating, Manzano, Lomong and a returning Webb, a fascinating 1500 m team.

The problem for American distance and middle distance runners in the past has been a lack of racing experience against the big boys and girls, a training regimen that didn’t have them ready to roll when the champs or big meets come, and the lack of an innate understanding of racing.

1976 Olympic Gold medalist John Walker once said that in the Olympic final, time means nothing, it’s who gets across the line first. In 1992, a

racing-savvy Spaniard, Fermin Cacho, ran a 50.5 last lap from a near dead stop and was able to hold Morcelli off, and take the Gold for the 1500 meters.

For a competitor to win in the talent-laden World and Olympic champs, first, one has to get into the final, something many in the U.S. forgot in the 90s. Then, one had to have enough in the tank to race, and if one was a half-lap behind, a killer kick meant nothing. Wheating has the aerobic capacity, the leg speed, but most of all, the desire. Andrew Wheating Wants to win, he likes to win, and he is pretty comfortable with that!

I have always been amazed with the athletes Vinn Lananna and his team develop. Andrew Wheating is going to be one of the great ones. It sure will be fun watching him race in 2011.

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

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Wallace Spearman Jr.

By Larry Eder Wallace Spearmon Jr. didn’t really start out as a sprinter. At Fayetteville (Arkansas) High School, Wallace played football and basketball for 2 years. On the football team, Wallace played wide receiver.

Then, track & field and Wallace met, and well, he was pretty good. Wallace earned all state honors in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 400 meters. He was also a pretty darn good jumper! In the long jump Wallace went 23-5, or 7.14m. In the high jump, Wallace cleared 1.98m, or 6-6, and in the triple jump, Wallace Spearmon Jr. hopped, skipped and jumped his way to 13.94m, or 45-9. Oh, and besides that, Wallace ran the 4x100 meter relay and 4x400 meter relay for Fayetteville High School. Oh, and I also forgot to tell you, Wallace competed in the decathlon and the 300 meter hurdles. “I really liked the jumps and the hurdles,” Wallace told Athletes Only last spring.

Wallace has a pretty good gene pool in track & field. His father, Wallace Spearmon Sr., was a member of Arkansas’ first championship track team in 1984. Spearmon Sr. also has Bronze medals at the 200 meters in the 1986 Goodwill Games and 1987 Pan-Am Games.

So, Wallace Spearmon Jr. went to Arkansas and was coached by the same coach who coached his father, the iconic John McDonnell. Coach McDonnell convinced the all-over-the-boards Wallace Jr. to trust the coach and focus on the sprints. “I knew Coach from when I was a kid and my father was working out with him,” noted Wallace Jr. As a freshman, Wallace Jr. finished 8th in the 2004 NCAA Indoor 200 meters, in 20.93, and was “devastated.” But he came back and won the NCAA Outdoor 200 meter title, becoming the first Razorback in history to win the Outdoor 200 title—and he did it as a freshman!

In his sophomore year, 2005, Wallace broke the American indoor record for the 200 meters twice in one season. Winning the NCAA 200 meter title, Wallace put the AR down to 20.10. He’d run 20.21 in the semifinals, and came roaring back in the final, running 20.10, and breaking the 5-year-old AR of 20.26, held by Shawn Crawford and John Capel!

On June 25, 2005, Wallace Jr. defended his 200 meter title at the NCAA Outdoors, winning in 19.91 then, a world leading time. He made World Champs team, taking the Silver medal over 200 meters in Helsinki, Finland as part of a U.S. sweep of spots 1–4!

Wallace went pro after that and gave up his college eligibility, running for Nike. In 2006, Wallace took his 200 meters into new territory, running 19.65 in Daegu, Korea and waking more than a few people up about this guy’s talent. Oh, and yes, Wallace won his first USA Outdoor title at 200 meters, in 19.90.

In 2007, Wallace took the Bronze at the World Championships in Osaka. In 2008, Wallace was originally given the Bronze over 200 meters, but was disqualified for running on the lane line. “It happened, I had to move on,” noted Wallace to us about the experience.

In truth, it was a life lesson, and Wallace takes those to heart.

In 2009, Wallace took the Bronze medal in the 200 meters, at the World Champs in Berlin, giving him three World Championship medals in three World Championships.

Spearmon gets some publicity for hanging around with Usain Bolt. Bolt and Spearmon get along both on and off the track.

In 2010, Wallace Spearmon took on a new footwear sponsor, Saucony and he won the U.S. outdoor over 200 meters, as well as taking 4th in the 100 meters. His best race of the year was his run in Brussels, where he caught Yohan Blake with his best time of the year, 19.79, also giving him the Samsung Diamond League diamond over 200 meters this season!

What sets Wallace off? He is built to run 200 meters. A slow starter, Wallace comes alive as he senses the turn and uses all of that pent-up energy. In Brussels, Wallace came alive with 50 meters to go and just flew past the field, catching Johan Blake at the finish!

How good is Wallace Spearmon Jr.? Remember, he was the last guy to beat Usain Bolt over 200 meters! Wallace Spearmon Jr. is as good as he wants to be. Watch him in 2011!

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Thirty years ago, in the pages of Runner's World, Brooks Johnson wrote a piece about why American distance runners were getting beat. They could not stay up with the leaders, and when it came to kicking, they could not engage.

Lots of hard questions later, a whole new generation of coaches, track clubs and athletes, we are getting some of the answers. From Kim McDonald with Bob Kennedy, to Jerry Schumacher with Matt Tegenkamp, Chris Solinsky and Shalane Flanagan, to Alberto Salazar with Galen Rupp, Kara Goucher and Amy Begley, to Terrence Mahon with Deena Kastor, Anna Pierce and Morgan Uceny, to John Cook with Leonel Manzano and too many others to mention. The torch is being passed. Groups like Zap Fitness, Brooks Hansons, and Team Minnesota are key to our success. Long-term relationships like coach Larsen and Meb Keflezighi are key to athletes growing and coaches learning more about their athletes. Those are the building blocks to the U.S. being successful once again over middle and long distances.

While I was interviewing Brooks last weekend, he paid Alberto Salazar a huge compliment. Brooks Johnson said that what made Alberto such a strong coach is that he encourages his athletes to do the things he did not do to be a better runner: plyo, swimming, bounding, stretching.

Kara Goucher told the assembled media in 2007, after her Bronze medal at 10,000 meters she was convinced that she had done everything she could to prepare for Osaka, so she could just focus on the race. Deep thoughts.

Think that the U.S. isn't influencing other teams? Look at the success of UK Athletics Endurance group, with Mo Farah and Chris Thompson going 1–2 in Barcelona. Farah ran a brutally fast last 1000 meters, in 2:25.44, and Thompson literally battled down the final 50 meters to earn his Silver. Ian Stewart, UK endurance mentor, preaches hard work, attitude and focus. Coaches like Mark Rowland (for Chris Thompson) embrace that theme.

In speaking to Chris Solinsky the night after his glorious AR at 10,000 meters, I found a tired but thougthful young man. Chris noted that he wasn’t sure where he would be racing in 2011, 2012. He spoke of plans through 2016–2020. He was enthused. Chris also gave credit to his coach, Jerry Schumacher, who coached Chris, Matt Tegenkamp, Simon Bairu, Evan Jager and Tim Nelson while they were mere Wisconsin Badgers!

In speaking with Jerry at the adidas Grand Prix, it was evident that he could transfer his enthusiasm to his athletes. The goal for Chris Solinsky now is to race, and learn how to race at this global level. The student is learning quite well, I would say.

What a wonderful conundrum to have, running 26:59.96 for 10,000 meters to start the season, and sub 13 minutes three times at 5000 meters to end his season.

Solinsky is learning to race at the highest levels of our sport. I’m always of the sort that athletes should race at distance where they have speed advantage, and for Solinsky, 10,000 meters may be it. But, it also seems to me that Chris Solinsky will run much faster, and entertain track fans for a couple Olympiads to come!

In the well-respected blog the Science of Sports, its May 10, 2010 column complimented Chris Solinsky on being the biggest guy to break 27 minutes and 13 minutes for that matter. Chris Solinsky is 3 cm taller than Paul Tergat and at 161 lbs, has a few pounds on Kenenisa Bekele (119) and Haile Gebreselassie (123).

Chris Solinsky is an anomaly, but that’s good. He’s challenged the status quo of little guys running middle distances and distances. Between Chris and Andrew Wheating, we hope that some big guys and big gals give our great sport a try.

Chris finished his season in Rieti, Italy with a new personal best at 3000 meters (7:34.32). He twittered the next day from the Rome airport that he was going to really enjoy his off season! Good training, Chris. See you in 2011!

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Chris Solinsky Chris Solinsky's Excellent Adventure, by Larry Eder

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

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Chaunte Howard Lowe Two American Records! by Larry Eder Chaunte Howard Lowe Sets AR! Chaunte Howard Lowe has been on a roll in 2010! At the U.S. Indoor Champs in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the bar fell off the standards after she had cleared an apparent AR. In mid March, Chaunte Howard Lowe medalled in Doha, Qatar at the World Indoor Champs.

On Wednesday, May 27, at the Ostrava meeting, the 49th Golden Spike, Chaunte Howard Lowe defeated Blanka Vlasic, 1.92m for Lowe and 1.88m for Vlasic. On Sunday, May 30, 2010, in the Leisitzer 21st Cottbus International Athletics meeting, Chaunte Howard Lowe warmed up into the high jump, starting at the opening of 1.87m and taking two jumps to clear 2.03/67.75 to tie Louise Ritter's AR from 1988. On the third and final attempt at 2.04m, or 6-8.25, Chaunte Howard Lowe had her own record! Chaunte had broken the 22-year-old record of Louise Ritter!

Chaunte waited less than a month to break her own American record, and it was the fans at the USA Outdoor who were able to see her skills this time.

Chaunte Howard Lowe entertained a loyal crowd of fans in Des Moines by making 12 attempts and clearing nine times!

She cleared 1.84m, 1.88m on the first attempt. 1.94 meters gave Chaunte a bit of a struggle, taking three attempts for her to clear. At 1.97 meters, Chaunte cleared on her first attempt, as she did at 2.01m, and 2.03.

By this time, the crowd was getting excited. On Chaunte's first attempt at 2.05m, she was just not close. On the second attempt, she got over the bar, but knocked it down with the back of her leg. On the third attempt, she cleared 2.05m/68.75, for her second American record in a month!

On taking her award, Chaunte thanked the crowd and said the following: "I did some research on Louise Ritter, who was the last one to hold the American record. She has something that I did not—an Olympic medal. I would like to win an Olympic medal for my country and myself! And I am very happy to have set this record in the United States in front of my American fans."

The rest of the summer, Chaunte Howard Lowe and Blanka Vlasic dueled across most of Europe. The women's high jump is a very popular event, but Howard Lowe is giving Vlasic a person to focus on. In the future, we see more ARs for Chaunte Howard Lowe.

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David Oliver David Oliver looks like the next world recordholder in the 110 hurdles. The Howard University grad (class of ’04) has reached a new level this season, recording, as of Sept. 1, the five fastest times of the year, seven of the top eight and nine of the top 12. Oliver has broken 13 seconds four times this year, led by his 12.89 in July in Paris. That time is 0.02 off the world record of 12.87, set by Cuba’s Dayron Robles in 2008 (0.02 seconds is about 8 inches).

But the 28-year-old Oliver says his first priority is not the world record: “I focus on winning, not running fast times,” he told the English newspaper The Observer. “If you win the race, you get to do the victory lap. If you told me I could have a world record or Olympic Gold I’d take the Olympic Gold every time.” He cites former world recordholder Colin Jackson of Britain, who has slipped to fifth on the all-time list following Oliver’s performances this year.

“Now Colin is just the top British [and European] recordholder,” said Oliver. “I wonder if he would have rather won an Olympic Gold medal. I wonder looking back what he would prefer to have now that he’s fifth on the all-time list. I bet he’d rather take Olympic Gold.

That can never be taken from you.” Oliver, whose last collegiate track season came in 2004, has been somewhat of a late bloomer.

He credits some tough early years as a pro with helping him develop mentally and physically. In response to questions from the British press, he thinks England’s funding system “promotes mediocrity” instead of excellence. His early pro years included having to work a job at the shoe chain, FinishLine, to make ends meet. “I had won the Berlin Golden League [meet]; I’d won some other meets,” Oliver said. “I was ranked No. 6 or 7 in the world, and I worked five or six hours a day [in the store]. I didn’t like that lifestyle, so I had to do something to change it.” He recalls English hurdler Andy Turner asking him: “How come you have to go to work? You ran 13.2.” “I was like: ‘Yeah, I’m an American who ran 13.2, I don’t have no contracts or nothing. They don't pay me for running 13.2.’ I had to go to work to make money. That’s why Americans always do better, because we don’t reward mediocrity. If I was a European running 13.2 they’d probably be trying to get me the world or something. As an American you run 13.2 and you’re just one of a bunch of people.”

Oliver Twist, by Dick Patrick

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REVIEWS

Cross Country Shoes Fall 2010 by Cregg Weinmann

Cross Country 2010 toes the starting line with something fresh—fresh air, fresh school year, and a fresh batch of spikes and flats designed to dig into the terrain of the toughest courses around. Here we take our annual look at eight newly released or updated cross country shoes for fall. All are low-profile models that skimp a bit on protection in favor of performance.

Deciding whether you should go for traditional XC spikes or a spikeless model should be based on the racing surfaces you’ll encounter during your season. Cross country spikes are slightly better than spikeless shoes at gripping muddy or soggy ground, but they are limited to use on all-natural courses and are not allowed for high school use in California. Spikeless models work almost as well as spikes in the mud and in addition, they manage pavement, sidewalks, and rocky surfaces and work well on indoor or outdoor tracks. Finally, always try to get in a few speed sessions in your racing shoes before the actual race, since the low profile of the shoe coupled with the intense effort of racing can be tough on your soft tissue if you haven’t prepared well.

Okay, that’s out of the way, so it’s on to the shoes …

adidas XCS The XCS is the update to the RLH from a couple seasons back. The XCS features the same Traxion outersole of the RLH in both a six-spike configuration and the more versatile spikeless version.

The upper is the same in each: a mini airmesh and a supportive, extended heel counter with a low-volume, foot-hugging fit. The midsole is low even for low-profile shoes and is molded EVA. The EVA provides adequate cushioning on its own, and gets an assist from the Traxion lugs that supply not only traction, but some cushion (via deflection). The close fit, deft touch of cushioning, and excellent traction help the foot efficiently negotiate whatever the cross country course puts between you and the finish line.

ASICS Hyper XC & Hyper Rocketgirl This update retains the same midsole/outersole in last season’s version: low-profile, molded EVA and a hightraction, lugged sole that, judging by the significant number of runners who wear them, are extremely effective. Changes have been implemented in the upper, particularly some upgrades to the meshes which make them sturdier. The smooth and well-finished interior is supportive and breathable. The extended heel counter and added medial overlays deter picking up mud while offering better support this time around. Overall, the ASICS fit, gender specificity, traction, and quality deliver good value.

SPIKE/SPIKELESS $60

SPIKE $60/SPIKELESS $55

Sizes: men 7–13,14,15; women 5–12 Weight: (men’s 11) 8.3 oz. spike; 7.8 oz. spikeless;

Sizes: men 4–13,14,15; women 5–11,12 Weight: (men’s 11) 9.2 oz. spike, 8.6 oz.

(women’s 8) 7.5 oz. spike; 7.0 oz. spikeless Fit: snug throughout

spikeless; (women’s 8) 7.9 oz. spike; 7.3 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, close forefoot

Brooks Mach 12

Mizuno Wave Kaze 6

The Mach 12 marks the first significant change in these shoes since version 5 way back in 2001. New are the last (the foot model that the shoe is built around) and the pattern of the upper. These changes align BEST RENOVATION the Mach 12 with the Wire, Brooks’ new distance spike, and give the shoe a bit lower profile. NoCross Country ticeably more pronounced is the toe spring that proFALL 2010 pels the foot forward. The fit has been improved by adding webbing in the midfoot lacing to better cinch the shoe around the foot. The interior has a sueded ankle collar and arch wrap that secure the foot comfortably—even if you run in them without socks. The cushioning is familiar: just enough for the varied terrain, but not so much as to add extra weight. In fact, the new midsole and upper shave almost 10% from a men’s size 11. It all adds up—fit, cushion, weight—to earn our Best Renovation award.

Five versions of the Kaze have integrated the Wave technology with a breathable, supportive upper.

And now we can make that six. The Kaze 6 maintains the molded EVA midsole with the modified Wave plate designed for cross country. The lugged outersole is also carried over in both a 6-spike configuration and a spikeless version. The new upper features fewer overlays (eliminated to save weight and improve breathability) with a more sheath-like fit (some runners may want to go up a half-size for a more comfortable fit). Runners familiar with the Kaze will find the performance they expect, while those searching for traction, good cushioning, and a secure fit have one more possibility in a racing shoe.

SPIKE/SPIKELESS $65

Sizes: men 7–13; women 6–11 Weight: (men’s 11) 8.9 oz. spike, 7.7 oz. spikeless;

Sizes: men 5–12; women 5–12 Weight: (men’s 11) 7.6 oz. spike, 6.8 oz. spikeless;

(women’s 8) 7.8 oz. spike, 7.0 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, very snug forefoot

SPIKE/SPIKELESS $80

(women’s 8) 6.7 oz. spike, 6.0 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, close forefoot

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• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

REVIEWS

Cross Country Shoes Fall 2010 continued New Balance 507

The 507 picks up right where the 506 left off.

The midsole and outersole are carried over. The same solid rubber, lugged outersole provides durable traction with a TPU plate for protection and springy responsiveness and molded EVA for a measure of cushion on harder surfaces. The familiar story of changes to the upper here results in a more supportive midfoot saddle. (It was previously just a couple straps from the eyestay to the heel counter.) Now the heel is locked down more securely and the forefoot is better supported with a full rand that also helps keep the elements out. The barefoot interior feel has even been improved a little, as the closed mesh breathes well and synthetic suede on the tongue and low-cut ankle collar has a soft, non-irritating feel. And the availability of men’s widths broadens its reach (no pun intended). The effect is a well-executed cross country performer.

Nike Zoom Waffle XC/Racer VII & Zoom Jana Star XC/Waffle The Waffle Racer pioneered the track spike/ racer/cross country hybrid.

Version VII upgrades a few features while maintaining its most effective components. The midsole/outersole is unchanged with a fournibbed waffle tread and a co-molded shank that works equally on tracks, hills, and dales. The upper’s no-sew technology enhances the support with a smooth interior and, though it gains a few grams in the process, it’s a worthwhile trade-off as the full rand and overlays reinforce the mesh throughout. The fit is unchanged—it’s close—but with good curvature and snugness to match the racing foot. The matching lasts of the spiked (Zoom Waffle XC) and spikeless models, the gender specificity of the Jana and Waffle Racer, and broadest cross country size range in the industry offer runners and teams a wide variety of XC options.

SPIKE $60/SPIKELESS $50 Sizes: men 4–13,14,15 (D,2E widths); women 5.5–10,11 Weight: (men’s 11) 7.5 oz. spike,

SPIKE $55/SPIKELESS $45

6.8 oz. spikeless; (women’s 8) 6.7 oz. spike, 6.0 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, close forefoot

Sizes: men 1–13,14,15; women 5–12 Weight: (men’s 11) 7.4 oz. spike, 6.8 oz. spikeless; (women’s 8) 6.5 oz. spike, 5.9 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, close forefoot

Puma Complete Haraka XCS

Saucony Shay XC 2

Haraka is a Swahili word best translated as “hurry,” which aptly describes the new Complete Haraka XCS that’s built on the strength of Puma’s recent track and cross country successes.

The outersole is an aggressively lugged, six-spiked configuration designed to maximize traction. The midsole is a healthy slab of molded EVA that seems at home on the hard surfaces without being too spongy off-road. The upper is a closed mesh with good breathability and a combination of welded overlays and soft synthetic suede. The interior is cozy enough for bare feet, with a velour-lined tongue and innersole offering a plush feel. The performance says hurry, but the attention to detail didn’t cut any corners.

Round two of the Shay XC features improved tailoring and a neat way to customize the shoe.

The fit has been tailored to wrap the foot more snugly, especially through the arch. The upper BEST SHOE has a sturdy rip-stop fabric on the sides of the vamp with an open stretch mesh on the tongue Cross Country down to the toes while wrapping the forefoot inFALL 2010 side the shoe. Overlays anchor the eyestay under the midfoot/heel. In a nice touch, various colors of vinyl film can be inserted into the overlays to customize the shoe with your team colors. The proven midsole and outersole carry over from round one, providing good cushioning and outstanding traction. The combination of fit, cushioning, and traction earned the Shay XC 2 our award for Best Cross Country shoe.

SPIKE/SPIKELESS $65 Sizes: men 7–12,13,14; women 5.5–12 Weight: (men’s 11) 7.6 oz. spike, 6.7 oz. spikeless; (women’s 8) 6.6. oz. spike, 6.0 oz. spikeless Fit: snug heel, close forefoott

SPIKE $75/SPIKELESS $70 Sizes: men 7–13,14; women 5–11,12 Weight: (men’s 11) 8.0 oz. spike, 7.1 oz. spikeless; (women’s 8) 7.0 oz. spike, 6.2 oz. spikeless Fit: snug throughout

CREGG WEINMANN is footwear and running products reviewer for Running Network LLC. He can be reached via e-mail at shuz2run@lightspeed.net.

Copyright © 2010 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of Running Network LLC. Reprinted here with permission.

• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

29

Molly Huddle

By Elliot Denman

“This whole year has been like a dream,” said the 26-year-old Huddle, who now lives and trains in Providence, Rhode Island.

Her 2009 season was good—it included victories in the USA national title road races at 10K (32:02.6) and 7 miles (37:39)—but her 2010 campaign has been a whole lot better.

She opened with a PR 15:02 5000 meters at the Mount Sac Relays in April and by late August dipped all the way down to 14:44.76 at the Diamond League Van Damme Memorial Meet in Brussels.

That was American-record time on the track, erasing Shalane Flanagan’s 2007 performance of 14:44.80, and was mightily impressive by U.S. standards.

But all it got her was 10th place in a power-packed Van Damme field led by Kenya’s Vivian Cheruiyot (14:27.41), Ethiopia’s Sentayehu Ejigu (14:28.39) and Kenya’s Linet Chepkwemoi Masai (14:31.14) ... and 14th position on the global year list.

“Brussels, that was a great learning experience for me, and so was the Fifth Avenue Mile,” said Huddle, who is finally beginning to live up to all her potential after years of battling assorted injuries (stress fractures, lesions, and more) and the coulda-woulda-shouldas of life and biggest-time international athletics.

“The speed’s coming and so is the strength part,” said Huddle. “If I can keep it all together, I know good things are going to happen.”

There’s just one more major happening on her 2010 racing calendar— the Tufts Health Plan/USA Women’s National 10K Road Championship in Boston on Columbus Day, Oct. 11.

Her overview: “2010's been a pretty good year for me. Then again, I know 2011 can be a whole lot better.”

Editor’s Note: Molly Huddle defended her U.S. title at Tuft’s on Oct. 11th winning the U.S. 10k road title in 32:00!

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• FALL 2010 • atf-athlete.com

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S M O L LY !

AMERICAN RECORDS A R E H A R D TO CO M E BY M O L LY H U D D L E 1 4 : 4 4 .76 5 0 0 0 M N EW A M E R I CA N R ECO R D

W E K N OW B ECAU S E

S A U C O N Y. C O M

WE RUN.