Metropolitan Minneapolis – overseeing the personal training programs at the 22 branches of the YMCA throughout the Twin Cities and western Wisconsin. For nearly 10 years, I presented nation-wide Personal Trainer certification workshops for the National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA). I have also participated as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on NETA’s Personal Training Role Delineation Committee and have served as the Chair of NETA’s Board of Certification. In addition, I hold professional certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Strength & Conditioning Association, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise, and the YMCA of the USA. I am a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. 3. As President, I would like to continue engaging the Board and MDRA members to become more actively involved in both the growth and impact of MDRA within the local running community. In particular, to increase MDRA membership; to increase participation in MDRA race events and programs; and to educate the running community regarding the mission and initiatives of MDRA. 4. My favorite close-to-home location to run is along the Rush Creek Regional Trails that link the Elm Creek Park Reserve to the Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. However, when traveling I look forward to a running tour of the local scenery, usually with no idea where I am headed or what I will find – I just run. There are many ‘favorite’ running quotes that keep me inspired. Among those is one of many by Frank Shorter, “You have to forget your last marathon before you try another. Your mind can’t know what’s coming.” This is particularly true of my experience at the 2007 TCM for those of you who recall the conditions during the race that year.
Andrew Plackner 1. I’d love to say I’ve been running my whole life, but that would be far from the truth. Prior to 2004 I ran occasionally, at best. Not because I really enjoyed it, but out of necessity. It was the only form of exercise I could regularly engage in during my business travels, which were excessive at the time. Early in ‘04 I decided to train for Twin Cities Marathon with a couple of buddies and everything changed. The friendship, improved fitness, and general well being that ensued became remarkably addicting. The following year I joined the MDRA and have since run 11 more marathons, as well as dozens of other races of all distances. 2. Recognizing how much the MDRA has given to me since I joined its ranks, I’ve attempted to give back a number of different ways. I’ve served as a coach in the MDRA Spring and Fall Marathon Program four times (so far) and I’ve served on the Board for two years now. I’ve also helped organize the MDRA Polar Plunge that has raised thousands of dollars for Minnesota Special Olympics. So what special skills or talents do I possess that I can rely on to contribute to the Board? As my friends will certainly attest I’m neither the fastest nor the brightest, but if I’ve learned anything in the years I’ve been running with the group and serving it so far it’s the important of this: balance. Like most MDRA members, I have a family and a job as well as other interests so to make this passion “work” I’ve learned
(sometimes the hard way) the importance of maintaining equilibrium with life’s other demands. In light of this, I often think of myself as a “lifestyle runner”, which I believe is an appropriate description for most MDRA members. It’s a mindset I adopt when defining my own running goals and one I’ll continue to espouse serving the MDRA going forward. 3. I’ve been fortunate to serve on the MDRA Board with many talented and inspirational people, all who share a love for the MDRA. This past year has been especially rewarding. The MDRA celebrated its 50th anniversary. New members are being added. MDRA training programs have brought new faces into the fold and have been well attended. Leadership has been outstanding I intend to maintain and continue this positive trend in a couple of ways. As anyone who’s served on the Board can attest, there’s no shortage of opinions, inspirations, and great ideas. But finding a process to effectively review these suggestions and take decision on them is a challenge we all share. Like our current leadership, I’d like to focus on reducing the amount of “kicking the can down the road” and will seek to do so by adopting a process that allows us to quickly identify the best ideas and give them the opportunity they need to succeed. The various MDRA training programs are one of the best ways we serve and advocate running. I’d like to focus on encouraging, training, and mentoring new coaches so there is better depth in these programs. Beyond that, I’d certainly like to continue coaching one of the Marathon Programs once per year. In addition to the support these programs provide towards helping members reach their running goals, these programs are a great way to meet new people, stay in shape, and promote participation in the ultimate individual sport. 4. Favorite Running Movie: Running the Sahara. Favorite Running Quote: “Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re right.” –Henry Ford. Okay, it’s not really a quote specific to running, but few are more applicable.” Running Hero/Role Model: It’s a secret. Favorite Distance: 26.2 miles!
Vice-President (one year term, one person running for one open position) Norm Champ 1. I ran in HS and got back into the sport in my thirties, but really began taking it seriously (perhaps too seriously looking back) as a master. I have run 11 marathons (all except Walker; sub 3:00) as well as numerous 5K-25K distances. As most runners I’ve had numerous injuries and finally had to face the fact that cartilage does not regenerate itself. I often ask, “If a runner doesn’t run can they still be considered a runner?” MDRA allows me to keep that question open and try to recapture the camaraderie the sport offers. 2. I’m not sure what special qualifications I have other than I am committed to giving back to the sport that provided me so much as an active athlete. I am currently the Chair of the Race Committee and would like to continue in that capacity, as well as volunteering for most of the
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
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