August issue 2015

Saint Louis Track Club’s

Track Time News

August 2015

Vol. 45, Issue 8

Only a few more weeks of Summer Pace Series!

Photos by Don Denham

Index: President Column...........3 Grapevine.......................4-6

stlouistrackclub.com

Minutes................................6 SLTC half marathon.........9 Ask Styles............................8 Training runs...................12

314.781.3926

Red Boots...................13-15 Calendar............................16

office@stlouistrackclub.com

Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

6136 Southwest Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63139-2719 www.stlouistrackclub.com

August 2015

Office hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Mon., Wed., Fri. Office phone/fax: 314-781-3926 Email: office@stlouistrackclub.com

Mission statement: The Saint Louis Track Club encourages running, walking and fitness for persons for all ages and abilities.

The club organizes events, disseminates information related to the benefits of running and physical fitness, and encourages membership.

Founded in 1970, the Saint Louis Track Club is a not-for-profit organization under the Internal Revenue Code 501-C3.

Affiliated with the Road Runners Club of America and the USA Track and Field Association.

SLTC Officers President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors SLTC Race Directors Frostbite Series Half Marathon Spring through St. Lou Pace Series Track Series Cross Country Kick-Off Clifton Heights 3K Corps of Discovery Trail Race Marathon Relay

Presidents Oct. 1970-Feb. 1974 Jerry Adams Mar. 1974-March 1980 Jerry Kokesh Apr. 1980-June 1980 Gene Gianladis July 1980-July 1984 Tom Eckelman Aug. 1984-July 1987 Dan Sebben Aug. 1987-July 1988 Gary Krosch Aug. 1988-July 1989 Tony Sebben Aug. 1989-Dec. 1989 Mimi Zielinski Jan. 1990-July 1990 Rich Blumm Aug. 1990-July 1993 Camille Carney Aug. 1993-July 1997 Tom Eckelman Aug. 1997-Mar 1998 John Welge Apr. 1998-July 1998 Carol Keller Aug. 1998-July 1999 David Spetnagel Aug. 1999-July 2001 John Brenner Aug. 2001-Sept. 2004 Don Hong Oct. 2004-June 2010 Dave McNaughton July 2010-Dec. 2011 Rich Anderson Jan. 2012-Dec. 2013 Pam Mosca Jan. 2014-Present Mike Huelsmann

Mike Huelsmann Mark Russell Wendie Cummings Danny Stults Josh Aranda Justin Frederick Brian Kratz Mike Orrico Ryan Yoch Bob Chitwood & Mike Bahr Kevin Jokisch TBA Don Denham David James TBA Jill Akins Mike Orrico Paul McGee & Rae Mohrmann

SLTC Lifetime Achievement Award Winners 2014 David White 2013 Gwen Eckelman 2012 Mike Toolen 2011 Dave McNaughton 2010 Jerry Kokesh 2009 Chris & John Brenner 2008 Don Hong 2007 Gary Krosch 2005 Les Paton 2004 Ed Wolfgram 2003 Jack Frohlichstein 2002 Dan Sebben 2001 Camille Carney, 2000 Tom Eckelman Leonard Sova

SLTC Webmaster Anna Jones, anna.jones@stlouistrackclub.com SLTC TTN Editor Sallie Story, editor@stlouistrackclub.com SLTC Executive Director Jen Mommens, jen.mommens@stlouistrackclub.com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The Track Times News is printed monthly. Reproduction of all or part of this newsletter in any form is strictly prohibited without the permission of the St. Louis Track Club.

SLTC Volunteer of the Year Award Winners 2013 Rae Mohrmann 2012 Christy Polk 2011 Paul McGee 2010 Jackie Corn 2009 Pat Britt, John Dickey 2008 Donna Springer 2007 Dave McNaughton 2006 Tom Wiltsch

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

President’s Column

Corps of Discovery is around the corner St. Louis Track Club Members, Greetings Track Club Members! With school just around the corner, it can only mean it’s time for the Cross Country Kickoff! This is my favorite time of year, as not only does it kickoff the Cross Country and fall running season, but more importantly, my daughter was born last year during the week of the SLTC Cross Country Kickoff, so this time of year will always hold a special place in my heart!

This year was the 42nd race put on by the St. Louis Track Club, and it was a beautiful morning for early August. The Macklind Mile Elite winners, Michael Scolarici and Margo Richardson, were able to take first place at the XC Kickoff. Also, SLTC Premier had a great showing, taking first in the Male team competition! Congratulations to all the participants and as always, thanks to all who came out to volunteer and cheer on the runners.

With fall approaching, I’m really hoping to get out and get some miles soon. I’ve been on the

Corps of Discovery swag for 2015.

mend of late due to pain in my Achilles area, so I haven’t been able to join the Marathon Training or some of the other runs. I’m hoping to join everyone soon, and really hope to see everyone at the Corps of Discovery Trail Run on August 30th.

Until next time, keep putting one foot in front of the other!

Mike Huelsmann, President St. Louis Track Club, est 1970

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

The Grapevine

By Donna Springer

Condolences to the Edwin John “Ed” Heigl family Edwin John “Ed” Heigl passed away July 10th after a long battle with cancer.

Ed distinguished himself as captain of the Rittenour High School Track Team, and as captain of and as an elite runner on the Saint Louis University Billiken Track Team. In 2012 and 2013, he put together, with help from his friends, “Ed’s Run for Life.” Although he had mounting medical bills, all proceeds went to the charities Ed chose.

Sally Tippett Rains of STL Sports Page saluted Ed as, “an inspiration and role model for others going through adversity,” June 19th, 2013.

“As Ed is on the journey of his life” Rains said. “He reflects on the many stages in life, and wants to honor them. For the children, there will be donations to Rainbows for Kids and St Jude’s Children’s Cancer Hospital in Memphis. The (Bill Writz) scholarship represents the older youth; Thrive is an organization offering options to pregnant mothers, and then SAGE Senior Adult Ministry, honors the senior citizens. He chooses to live each day as a gift. This outlook gives him something to look forward to; and, even though in private he suffers the terrible consequences of chemotherapy, including pain, weakness, and sleepless nights, Ed Heigl is an inspiration to everyone who knows him. He just might be surprising some of his doctors. He has had 18 cycles of chemotherapy, six surgeries, and radiation in the past year, yet he has been able to keep up with his work schedule—even being promoted from Executive Director of Crestview Senior Living to his new position of area manager for the corporation —as well as to run in 5k races, half marathons, and to ride his bike. Along with strict diet and supplements, the love and support of his family and friends, he credits his running for giving him such a good quality of life during such an adverse time.

“I have learned through running to push through

adversity, pain and fatigue to never give up and never give in against my fight,” Heigl said. “I had a great high school track coach who taught me that lesson of pushing through adversity. It also has been my faith in God. If it is His will for me to live, combined with my will, how can I lose no matter what anyone says? I am upbeat because I am living each day in the present as if it is a gift. I have great support from family, my work, friends and from many other people that I never expected. This has been the hardest year, but also the best year of my life, despite the cancer.”

“Ed was a runner even wearing a medical pump; incredible man,” said his longtime friend, SLTC’s Patricia Cornell. Ed attended the Saint Louis Track Club annual banquet and participated in several track club events.

Donations may be made to the Ed Heigl Trust for the Heigl family. Survivors include his wife, Beth; his sons, Alexander and John; and daughter Adrianna (Saint Louis Post-Dispatch, Sunday July12, 2015, M2).

Big River Running Company hosts annual Cross Country Camp Big River Running Company held its eighth annual Big River Cross Country Camp July 20 to 24. Campers “have the chance to learn from experienced runners, set goals for themselves and have fun meeting other runners during an action-packed week.

“The Big River Cross Country Camp has become a summer tradition for runners in 7th through 12th grade,” said

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

Katie Helbig, of Big River Running. “More than 60 campers enjoyed a great week of running, learning and fun!

Highlights included hill workouts and scavenger hunts in Queeny Park, a messy egg toss, a cold frozen t-shirt relay, insightful talks from area coaches, a college running panel discussion, trivia and more! The five day camp culminated with a cross country race, BBQ and pool party.

Camp Director, Mark Spewak of Big River Running, brings the energy and has all of the campers focusing on a positive mental attitude in their running, and in life!” What an amazing week! We had SO much fun and learned a lot too! Thanks to all campers, volunteers, counselors and helpers!”

Muncie, Indiana 70.3 Half Ironman offers hospitality, great volunteers Congratulations to Betty O’Dea, who completed the Muncie Indiana 70.3 Half-Ironman on July 11.

The half-marathon offers “true Hoosier hospitality in Muncie: a welcoming, family-friendly environment for athletes and spectators.” Athletes immersed in a 1.2-mile swim in the calm waters of Prairie Creek Reservoir. The 56mile bike course involved a flat ride through rural Indiana on closed state highways. The 13.1 mile run was a challenging one, over rolling country roads, around the south side of the reservoir.

“The volunteers were amazing; enthusiastic to the very end, which is where I came in. I would recommend this race to anyone,” Betty said. She was cheered in by Eanista Bailey as she finished. Eanista, of Granite City, was a volunteer and offered support to many triathletes.

Betty has been settling back into Saint Louis through regular workouts. Her husband, Robert Hazel, had an original film showing at the Tivoli Theater Short Film Festival July 20.

Dottie Gray makes strong showing at the National Senior Games Congratulations to Dottie Gray, who competed in the National Senior Games July 3rd through 16th in Minnesota. Dottie made strong showings in her newly attained 90 to 94 age group, placing first in the 50-meter Dash, 100meter Dash, 200- meter Dash, 400-meter Dash, 800-meter Run, the 1500-meter Run, and in the 5K Road Race.

“I had a wonderful time,” Dottie said. One day, she competed in five events. “I lived through it,” she said. “It could have been hotter.”

The games originated in St. Louis in 1985. A group of

August 2015

seven men and women formed leadership for what was initially known as the National Senior Olympics Organization (NSOO) with a vision of “promoting healthy lifestyles for adults through education, fitness and sport.” The first National Senior Olympic Games were held in 1987 in St. Louis and drew 2,500 competitors. More than 100,000 spectators viewed the ceremonies featuring Bob Hope at the St. Louis Riverfront Arch. The second National Games, in 1989, also took place in St. Louis. After an objection from the United States Olympic Committee based on the use of the term Olympic, the name was changed to the U.S. National Senior Sports Organization. The organization continued its signature event as the “National Senior Games.” The Senior Olympics, through a grandfather clause, were allowed to continue to use the term “Olympic.” The “National Senior Games” are biennial competitions for men and women 50 and older. NSGA Member Organizations hold annual games with qualifying competitions during the years preceding the biennial games.

The NSGA has held 14 summer national championships; approximately 12,000 athletes competed in nineteen classes of sports, ranging from Archery to Triathlon, this year.

The Saint Louis Track Club honored Dottie’s 90th birthday at Felix’s Pub following the scavenger hunt. Rae Mohrmann organized the event and brought the cake.

Margaret Hvatum aims to become 50-state marathoner Margaret Hvatum is readying for her marathon in her 50th state, the Rocket City Marathon in Alabama on December 12. Although told that she would never run due to chronic bronchitis, she successfully completed the Chicago Marathon in both 2005 and 2006; she became enthusiastic about and continued marathoning via Team in Training. She plans to run the marathon in memory of her fatherin-law, Hein Hvatum.

Rae Mohrmann has featured recipe in the STL Post-Dispatch Rae Mohrmann, SLTC’s 50-plus state marathoner, was featured for her cooking in The Saint Louis Post-Dispatch July 29th. Her edamame-cranberry-feta cheese salad is part of an “almost vegetarian” diet.

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

Speedy recovery wishes to Phil Tomber at SSM Rehab Best wishes to Phil Tomber in his recovery at SSM Rehabilitation following a stroke July 18. Phil has been a regular attendee of the Wednesday night Pace Runs and other Track Club activities. Through his work with the RIO Syrup company, Phil helped obtain backing for The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Run for many years, and has provided “slushies” after the summer Pace Runs.

“He sounded great, but has limited use on his left side. Phil sounded in good spirits and wants to get back to resuming his normal life as soon as possible. Please keep Phil in your prayers as he goes through rehab for a full recovery,” said Doug Melville, of The Sierra Cub. Phil had done a Sierra Club hike the day before his stroke.

“Phil is doing pretty well, apparently,” said Fran Armstrong, who visited him July 26. Phil may be reached

by SSM (314-768-5273) or by e-mail. phil@riosyrup. com.

Bob Bellora reflects on KMOX 4-mile Corporate Challenge Bob Bellora is continuing his 40-plus year history with The Saint Louis Track Club. He recently received a photo from Chase and Kathy Van Valkenburg showing a “KMOX 4-Mile Corporate Challenge.” The corporate challenges, held in downtown St. Louis during mid 1980s on a weeknight, allowed three men per corporate team to score.

Bob said about 1,000 runners participated. One McDonnell Douglas’ team, having Ron Ayers, Mike Bridwell, and

We want to hear from you!

The 1984 or 1985 KMOX 4-mile Corporate Challenge in downtown St. Louis.

Chase Van Valkenburg, placed first overall. Bob, 34, was on another McDonnell Douglas team with Mark Hollingshead (left side of photo with red shorts) and Paul Zucker, which placed second overall.

“I ran very well for four miles” Bob said. “Mark Hollingshead and I and broke 21:45 minutes for the 4 miles, 5:24 average. Ron, Mike, Chase, and Paul Zucker each broke 20:00 for the 4 miles, sub-5:00 average. The top three McDonnell Douglas women runners, Stephanie Todd, Wendy Halamicek, and Betty Neil, were the 1st place women’s team. I was the designer of the uniform style and colors.”

Bob served on the Saint Louis Track Club Board of Directors during two decades, but quit the second time after his wife, Carol, died, and he had to become a mom and dad to his eight-year-old son, Paul. Paul, who was a familiar sight at events, is now 28 years old and is a computer programmer in New York City. He is married to his college girlfriend, Snehal, who is from India.

Youth or 90, from Minnesota to downtown Saint Louis, The Saint Louis Track Club wishes you the best.

Please share your news and accomplishments with DSprin5574@aol.com, or the Saint Louis Track Club office.

Meeting Minutes

Tell us about your accomplishments.

Whether it’s your first 5k or a marathon PR, we want to know about it! Submit race recaps and photos to editor@stlouistrackclub.com

Team SLTC Premier is racing well and is growing in numbers.

Sponsorship and parking for the Half Marathon was discussed.

The Cross Country Kickoff will be August 1, and the Corps of Discovery is set for August 30. A candidate for the media manager position has been identified and will be followed up with. The treasurer reports financial are looking well. The first Summer Scavenger Hunt was a success, as all participants reported enjoying the event. The premium giveaway item for the Frostbite Series was determined, and online registration should be ready soon. Dates for 2016 were also set.

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Saint Louis Track Club

201 Summer Pace Series Where the power of the pace exceeds the need for speed When:

Wednesday nights, June ϯ through Sept. 2ϯ

Time:

Walkers start at 6 pm, everyone else at 6:15 pm

Place:

The Visitor’s Center in Forest Park

Entry Fee:

$1 per run plus optional donations for snacks

Races are scored based on actual time versus predicted time - of course, you run without a watch!

Each month the best 3 of 4 races will be used to determine ribbon winners for the top 10 closest estimators.

For the entire series, the best 12 of 16 races will determine trophy winners for the top 15 closest estimators.

June series June ϯ 2M June 1Ϭ 3K June 1ϳ 5K June 2ϰ 2.5M

July series July ϭ 2M July ϴ 3K July 1ϱ 5K July 2Ϯ 2.5M

August series July Ϯϵ 3K Aug. ϱ 5K Aug. 1Ϯ 2.5M Aug. ϭϵ 4.2M

September series Aug. 2ϲ 2.5M Sept. Ϯ 5K Sept. ϵ 4.2M Sept. 1ϲ 3K

Wednesday, Sept. 2ϯ, is the fun run, grab bag, and final series awards.

If you are looking for an easy way to meet new friends or are new to running, the Pace Series is for you!

The Forest Park Visitor’s Center is located near the History Museum and Tennis Complex at: 5595 Grand Dr. St. Louis, 63112 No need to pre-register.

Just come on out before 6pm to check-in.

Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

Ask Styles!

How can I get my running buddy to give me space?

Q: Is it okay to elbow a running partner when they run too close all the time? -Kathy D.

Q: . When does nagging pain become an injury and time for professional help? -John P.

A: Great question, John. I think everyone is different, but the real key is understanding your running body and listening to it when it doesn’t feel right. Most would perceive going to see a Dr., PT, Chiro, etc., to be no fun; however, running through pain is even worse. Not only does it hurt, but the mental toll of knowing you can’t do something you love will eat at you. The longer you let that nagging injury linger, the tougher it may be to get back to 100%. I should heed my own advice, as I tend to wait longer than I should before seeing a professional. This Q: What is the best recovery drink/food is usually not the best approach, so don’t to take after a hard workout to facilido as I do, do as I say. However, I am not tate muscle adaptation for someone saying every time something is tired or on the go? -Colby G. sore you should make an appointment.

The one and only I think you need to really understand your A: Wow, a serious question… I don’t get too Mr. Styles. body and know the difference between many of those. I would try something with what is normal soreness and what is pain. If pain perboth carbs and protein; a shake or smoothie would sists for a few days to a week, even with a decrease in be pretty ideal and are somewhat convenient. There activity, then it might be time to seek help. are a lot of different recovery products on the market to try as well: Fuel For First, HEED, and MunkPack, Disclaimer: Styles is not a professional. He is a just a guy to name a few. They can be a nice filler until you get that likes to run… every day… sometimes twice. For the real meal you need. It’s best to get something in professional help, please contact a running coach, local there within 30 minutes of finishing. running store, physician, and of course the Google.

A: Hey Kathy, I have been on both ends of that before. I think the proper thing to do would be to politely ask them to stop the first time, and if that doesn’t work then maybe you start throwing some bows. If that fails, I think you have no choice but to throw your partner off the sidewalk or trail. As someone who tends to drift when I get tired or start daydreaming, I would get the hint after the first forearm shiver.

Need race day advice? Want to know how to prevent embarrassing marathon mishaps? Just want to annoy someone with random inquiries? ASK STYLES! Email him your questions at askstyles@stlouistrackclub.com, or post your questions to Twitter or Facebook with the #askstyles hashtag!

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Half Marathon

36th Annual St. Louis

Half Marathon & 15th Annual Clayton Police 5k for Special Olympics Sunday, November 1st, 2015

    

Low entry fees Long sleeve technical shirts Finisher medals Start & Finish at the Center of Clayton Runners start at 7:30 am. Walkers start at 7:00 am

5k and Youth Run 

$55 for Non-Members and $40 for Members through June 28th  www.stlouistrackclub.com/half-marathon/registration  

Low entry fees… o $20 & $15 for 5k runners o $5 & $7 for Youth runners …until Sept. 21st!

Long sleeve technical shirt for 5k entrants Long sleeve cotton shirts for youth entrants 5k starts at 7:45 am. Youth starts at 8:15 am

West St. Louis County Lions Club 11Th Annual Lions “RUN FOR SIGHT” 10K/5K Run/3K Walk/½ Mile Kids Run – “Chip Timing” Saturday, September 12, 2015 – Eureka, MO The Kids Run starts at 7am - the 10K & 5K Runs and 3K Walk at 7:30am – arrive early PROCEEDS BENEFIT LOCAL COMMUNITY EYE CARE NEEDS, MISSOURI SCHOOL OF THE BLIND, JDRF, LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS, FREE SUMMER YOUTH SWIM PROGRAM, CARE PACKAGES FOR OUR TROOPS

Registration Fees: Individual: 5K Run 3K Walk 10K Run Kids (10-under): Family (4 or more):

Before Sept 4th

After Sept 4th

$25 $25 $30 $12 $65

$30 $30 $35 $15 $65

ONLINE Registration and Course Information: Go to www.raceroster.com/4871 Team Competition: 10K & 5K Teams consist of as many runners as you wish. We take the top 5 finishers of each team and add their finish placement. The team with the lowest score wins. Each team member receives a medal.

Packet Pickup: Shelter Insurance Office, 207 S. Central Ave. - SEPT 10th 3pm - 8 pm and SEPT 11th 9am - 1 pm PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR AGE AS OF SEPTEMBER 12, 2015 NAME:

Event

AGE

Male

Female

Shirt Size (see below)

NAME:

Event

AGE

Male

Female

Shirt Size (see below)

NAME:

Event

AGE

Male

Female

Shirt Size (see below)

NAME:

Event

AGE

Male

Female

Shirt Size (see below)

NAME:

Event

AGE

Male

Female

Shirt Size (see below)

EVENT: 10K RUN 5K RUN 3K WALK 1/2 MILE KIDS RACE (LIMIT 4 T-SHIRTS PER FAMILY) T-SHIRT SIZES: CHILD AS AM AL AXL AXXL Total Enclosed - $

How did you hear about us?

ADDRESS:

CITY/STATE:

ZIP CODE:

EMAIL ADDRESS: In consideration of this entry, I assume all risk to me. My signature below indicates that I, my relatives and heirs hereby release and forever hold harmless, the sponsors and promoters of this event, including the City of Eureka, West St Louis County Lions, Fleet Feet Sports, MRRM & Making Tracks and all officers, employees, agents and volunteers of these organizations, as well as subcontractors associated with this event from any claims liability and causes of action resulting from any personal negligence or fault of any of the released parties. My signature on this form further gives permission to the Eureka Days event to take photographs/videos of me and my family, if applicable, at this event and to use these images for future promotions and/or in the organization’s publications and web media. I understand that I will not be allowed to participate in this event unless a signed registration form is on file with the West St. Louis County Lions. Registration forms must be signed by a parent or guardian if participant is under age 18. NO REFUNDS.

Make Checks payable to: West St Louis County Lions Questions?

Call: Shenee 314-750-0944 Wes 314-570-8101

Mail Registration to: Lions Run 1 Coffey Park Lane Eureka, MO 63025

Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

It’s not too late to join summer marathon training The St. Louis Track Club announces the return of its popular marathon training program. Ron Eisenberg (reisenberg@sl-lawyers.com) and Steve Brady (bradyci@sbcglobal.net) return for their 11th year as the coordinators. Contract them with any questions, other than the perennial “Am I too slow?” (no, and we don’t care, so long as you commit). Whether you are training for your first marathon or a repeat customer, we want you. You will improve your running, make friends, and learn new places to run, both on the road and on trails. The program is free, but you must be a member of the St. Louis Track Club. To receive details regarding all group runs, directions, training tips, and other important information, please join St. Louis Track Club Marathon Training Group on Facebook.

Entry Guidelines: Minimum of 20 miles per week; long run of at least 8 miles without walking; at least 3 runs per week. Runs start at 7 a.m., but arrive early because parking can get crowded.

Date August 15 August 22 August 29 September 5 September 12 September 19 September 26 October 4 October 11

Site Mileage Babler State Park—3 Outer Loops & 1 Inner Loop 18 Alton, IL—Great River Road Run 16 Castlewood State Park 14 Forest Park Visitor Center—Inside the Park 20 Grant’s Trail—Tesshire Road Parking Lot 16 Creve Coeur Lake Park— Taco Bell Shelter to St. Charles 13 Cliff Cave Park 10 Cowbell Marathon 26.2 Chicago Marathon 26.2

We’re looking for Training Program volunteers! Email office@stlouistrackclub.com

E R E H D OUR A nners and

Y ach local ru e in the

Re ur rac r rates o y e t o promo ews. F N e m i T email , Track o f n ub.com l and i c k c a tr tlouis s @ r o t edi

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

We are empowered to create and celebrate positivity St. Louis Track Club Board Member Wendie Cummings was honored by Girls on the Run and Red Boot Coalition founder and visionary from Charlotte, North Carolina, Molly Barker, on July 28, 2015 at Ferguson Middle School. Wendie is the Director of Bands and Girls on Track coach at Ferguson Middle School. She was honored for being a person who has created a positive “Ripple Effect” in the Ferguson area. Other honorees included Peggy Faul (who works as a Parents as Teachers educator in Ferguson, Girls on the Run coach, Ferguson Twilight Run committee member and former Ferguson Council member), Dwayne T. James (who is an engineer, Ferguson Council member, Race Director for the Ferguson Twilight Run, and Ferguson Youth Initiative Board member), Gerry Noll (who is the owner of the Ferguson Bicycle Shop and Ferguson Twilight Run committee member), and Brian Fletcher (former Ferguson Mayor, Council member, FFSD school board member, and the founder of the “I Love Ferguson” campaign and shop).

Some history: On August 10, 2014, the day after Michael Brown was killed, Molly was leading a Red Boot Coalition meeting with a group of about 15 people at Metro Power Yoga in Kirkwood, which is owned by SLTC member, Julie Bergfeld. As the group discussed how to navigate our country’s vitriolic and polarized political arena, protests were beginning to erupt on the streets of Ferguson just 20 miles north. All the attendees at the 2014 meeting were inspired to be ambassadors for peace, unity, and compassion, but then went home to the news reports about the Ferguson protests, which raged for many tense months. Molly’s 2014 Red Boot Coalition Ride included stops in other cities, but the Ferguson story amidst all the other divisive political conversations remained in the forefront of her mind and weighed heavily on her heart. Molly

Kenidra Woods, Molly Barker, and Wendie Cummings at Ferguson Middle School July 28, 2015.

continued to check on her friends in St. Louis, then officially founded her Red Boot Coalition as an official non-profit organization almost a year later.

Why RED BOOTS, you ask? Molly’s daughter, Helen, gave her a pair of red boots when she turned 50. Whenever Molly wears them, people always want to talk to her! Conversation and compassionate listening are the cornerstones of the Red Boot Coalition.

In May of 2015, Molly asked her fans to write to her about an influential person who has caused a positive Ripple Effect. Kenidra Woods, a dedicated and thoughtful band student and Girls on Track team member who just finished 8th grade at Ferguson Middle School, was one of those letter writers who would mark the first stop on Molly’s 2015 Red Boot Coalition Ride. Molly was interested in traveling back to St. Louis to see Ferguson first hand. She had some fears because news stories depicted the North County suburb as unpleasant and dangerous. She toured Ferguson and was struck by the beauty of the area and the kindness she experienced, which was noth-

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

The honorees and participants the Red Boot Coalition event.

ing like her original impression from watching news reports.

The July 28, 2015, Red Boot Coalition Meeting at Ferguson Middle School opened with Molly reading Kenidra’s beautifully written letter honoring her band director and coach, Wendie Cummings. Each honored guest then stood and recognized the person they nominated as being a positive influence in the community, which was in turmoil after the death of Michael Brown.

After reading Kenidra’s moving letter about her teacher and coach, Molly explained the rules for a Red Boot Coalition Meeting, all of which focus on compassionate listening. The program is an 11-step initiative to promote unity and understanding through open and honest dialogue of diverse individuals. The Red Boot Coalition mission: By engaging in honest, real-world dialogue inspired by the Red Boot Eleven Steps, we create places where people feel safe, connected and loved.

As we approach the anniversary of the killing of Michael Brown and the turmoil that plagued the City of Ferguson, Molly chose to focus on Step

Two of her Red Boot Coalition core values, which states: We came to see, that despite sometimes feeling small and powerless, we possess the power to positively influence all those with whom we come into contact, which on any given day can be literally hundreds of people. We are EMPOWERED. The Red Boot Coalition gathering at Ferguson Middle School drew a diverse crowd of 43 people, from toddlers to grandparents from many different St. Louis neighborhoods, many of whom had never set foot in Ferguson. The conversation centered around positivity, and it was refreshing to hear people share instances in which they were recently positively impacted by another individual and future plans to create a tangible, positive impact for others.

Molly began by telling us she went for an incredibly challenging run in the heat and humidity on the Katy Trail that morning and a cyclist stopped to offer water and kind words, which helped her finish the run in a better mood. She plans on making sure she continues to intentionally share an open hearted smile with everyone

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Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

she meets. Positivity starts with individuals being kind to one another.

Robin shared that one of her colleagues who coaches Girls on the Run reminded her that beauty comes from our acts of kindness and bravery, not from physical appearance, and it has inspired her to remind the students at her school of that very same message.

Peggy shared a story about volunteering to pick up trash along West Florissant and in the Canfield Apartments. A security officer told her and other volunteers nearby that it’s not worth cleaning up trash because people will just litter again. Peggy explained to him that this was her neighborhood and she wants very much for it to be cared for. Many hours later the same security officer was spotted picking up trash in a nearby area as part of the clean-up effort. He said, “I thought about what you said and decided that I could help, too.”

Marsonda, a 6th grader at Johnson-Wabash Elementary in Ferguson, plans on having a Peace and Unity March with other students to show the world that Ferguson is a positive place.

Byron, an African-American, told a powerful story about having a pleasant conversation with a white police officer in front of his home in Ferguson, and how he’s inspired and hopeful because of this unexpected positivity. Not only did the chat go well, he made a new friend, and the rest of his neighbors witnessed and learned from the positive interaction.

Elyse shared that she is always willing to be extra kind to every new person she meets, but plans on shifting her focus in order to be more intentional with kindness and gratitude towards family members.

Dwayne described several wonderful positive events that occurred during the meeting, starting from a simple, yet much-needed hug from Molly when he first met her, words of encouragement from Katy, and how he was inspired by Byron’s message of hope for the future when he

August 2015

Ferguson police officer with Byron Conley

heard the story about his new friendship with the police officer.

Darcy bravely described how challenging it is to care for a child who has an invisible disability and how others judge her and her daughter.

Some mornings she has to remind herself to “just breathe,” but then she remembers that caring for her daughter is making her stronger and more patient. Her experience reminds her that everyone is struggling with something, whether it’s obvious or not, and to have patience and love for everyone.

It takes a willingness to listen to and respect each other in order to create more peace; the thoughtful and diverse folks at the Red Boot Coalition meeting at Ferguson Middle School have proven that they are on the right path towards peace, and their positivity will continue to ripple throughout the St. Louis region and the world.

Page 15

Saint Louis Track Club

Track Time News

August 2015

Aug./Sept. events & races 8/15/2015 8/15/2015 8/16/2015 8/19/2015

Tiki Trot Glade Runner 5K/10K Garden Gallop 5K SLTC's Pace Series

5k 5k, 10k, Trail Run 5k 4.2 Miles

8/23/2015 8/23/2015

2015 Courthouse Run 12th Annual Crestwood Kid's Triathlon

5k Kid's Triathlon

8/26/2015

SLTC's Pace Series

2.5 Miles

8/29/2015

Run for Mercy 5K and Family Walk

5k

Forest Park, St. Louis, MO Queeny Parky St. Louis, 550 Weidman Road, Ballwin, MO, 63011

8/29/2015

Waterloo Optimist Club 5k Run

5k

Waterloo, IL

8/29/2015

Peace Fest 5K - On Pace for Peace

5k, 1 Mile

Forest Park, MO

8/29/2015 8/29/2015

Kimmswick 5K 5k, 1 Mile, Fun Run Waterloo Optimist 5K 5k Competitive Run & 5K Fun Walk

Kimmswick, MO Waterloo, IL

8/29/2015 8/29/2015

5K to SJA Fido 5k Run and 1 Mile Walk

5k, Fun Run 5k, 1 Mile

Saint Louis, MO Washington, Missouri

8/29/2015 8/29/2015 8/29/2015

Charger Challenge Legend Triathlon-Capital City Run for the Island 5K

5k, triathlon 5k

Collinsville, IL Topeka, KS St. Peters, MO

8/30/2015

SLTC's Corps of Discovery Trail 13.1 mile. 5 mile Run

Lewis and Clark Trails, Weldon Springs, MO

9/2/2015

SLTC's Pace Series

5k

9/5/2015

Race for Refuge

5K walk/run and 10K run

Forest Park, St. Louis, MO Tower Grove Park, St. Louis, MO

9/7/2015

Jewish Community Center's 9th Annual Kids' Triathlon

Distances Vary Based on Age

St. Louis, MO

9/7/2015

Jewish Community Center's 38th Annual Labor Day Run 5k & 10k

5k, 10k

St. Louis, MO

9/7/2015

Benton Park Labor Day 5K+ Run, Walk & Stroll 56th Annual Heart of America marathon

5k

St. Louis, MO

26.2 mile

Columbia, MO

9/9/2015

SLTC's Pace Series

4.2 Miles

9/12/2015

Harvest Challenge 5K/Half Marathon/Kids’ K Fun Run at McKendree University 6th Annual Bradley R. Smith Memorial 5k

5K run/walk Half Marathon run; 1k Kids run 5k

Forest Park, St. Louis, MO Lebanon, IL

Cat Country Runs

Half Marathon, 5 Mile

9/7/2015

9/12/2015 9/12/2015

Page 16

Hecker, IL St James, MO St. Louis, MO Forest Park, St. Louis, MO St. Louis, MO Crestwood, MO

Troy, IL Edwardsville, IL