tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15908083180270362302024-02-19T02:24:16.220-08:00X-City RunningAn Urban Running Group in Portland MaineUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-56908523292771070642012-06-11T16:08:00.000-07:002012-06-11T16:08:58.328-07:00100th Mile: A blog for those who go the distanceThere are many positive changes taking place at X-City Running which we'll be posting about in the weeks to come. Since hosting our first run in November X-City has grown into an active group of runners with a visible presence in the Portland community. At our recent goal setting workshop we discussed making some changes to the blog to reflect that growth. <br />
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For starters I will be moving my training log over to <a href="http://www.100thmile.blogspot.com/">100th Mile</a>, a personal blog that will host my writing on sports training, nutrition, and other areas of life in which I perform, compete, and exist. Check it out and let me know your thoughts...<br />
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Our current blog will focus exclusively on the pursuits of X-City as a group and be opened up to all of our members to utilize and contribute to. Keep checking back to see what we're doing with our site, our group, and our goal of "strengthening the running community while strengthening the community that we run in". -DavidUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-54814654496816737012012-05-19T03:51:00.000-07:002012-05-19T03:51:33.431-07:00Summer HoursLast Monday the X-City crew met at Local Sprouts Cafe for the final time to a) eat there instead of just blocking the doorway before and after our group runs and b) to discuss our goals for the group as well as our individual running goals for the summer. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXksiSuJ-XK_VRRhZ2nxzY4FN-OgIt65ThMyz2ybLoIVbGcEnRxaZGMe8zu7GjdGn6XYAy9nFRGTYm8C_W8HGlscy-XwCSkL7miwnsgBBO6IQqzC9Kxnry64UH30ZuRg2AlfkFgDxvgvm/s1600/1b4l971door81.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaXksiSuJ-XK_VRRhZ2nxzY4FN-OgIt65ThMyz2ybLoIVbGcEnRxaZGMe8zu7GjdGn6XYAy9nFRGTYm8C_W8HGlscy-XwCSkL7miwnsgBBO6IQqzC9Kxnry64UH30ZuRg2AlfkFgDxvgvm/s1600/1b4l971door81.jpg" /></a>Local Sprouts has been a great meeting spot for all of the reasons that we mentioned in the "About Sprouts" post a while back. But, in order to meet the larger goal of engaging and involving neighborhood youth in the project we are making the following changes beginning on Monday, May 20th.:<br />
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<strong>X-City group runs will now be held at 7p every Monday night and will start at the Preble St. Teen Center, 343 Cumberland Ave. in Portland.</strong><br />
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Many people mentioned running their first race or beating their fastest time as one of their primary goals for the summer of 2012. We've decided that a 5k in late summer/early fall would present an opportunity to meet both of these goals by training together and competing in our first race as a team. Looking forward!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-73677482206323728792012-04-30T18:04:00.000-07:002012-04-30T18:04:37.430-07:00Upcoming Runs<br />
<strong>Route Planning Run: Monday May 7th</strong><br />
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We talked about shifting the meeting location for our weekly runs to the Preble Street Teen Center for the summer. On Monday, May 7th, we will be meeting at the center at 6 to plan a beginner friendly through the Parkside neighborhood. The PSTC is located at 343 Cumberland Ave. in Portland.<br />
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<strong>Goal Setting @ Local Sprouts: Monday May 14th</strong><br />
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We've discussed our personal training goals and our goals for the group while running through the streets every Monday night. On May 14th we will have an opportunity to continue these conversations while we're not out of breath and running up a hill through rush hour traffic...<br />
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X-City Running members will be meeting to discuss ways that support each other in our personal and collective goals while enjoying good food and good vibes at Local Sprouts. Our group run for this week will start at 5 and we'll be sitting down to talk goals at 6. Hope to see you there!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-77346122812232450482012-03-24T22:26:00.002-07:002012-03-25T07:06:51.499-07:00Moving Forward<em>So what should I do? Quit? "No!" my mind screamed. "I can't quit!" The very
thought of quitting was a horror gnawing within me. So I posed the next
question: What can I do? And the answer came back from the hollow desperation
deep inside my soul: I can still put one foot in front of the other, can't I?
For once the answer came back--"Yes!"</em> -<strong> Gordy Ainsleigh, founder of the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Race on how he made it to the finish line</strong><br />
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I lost something important this weekend. It was a notebook containing over two months worth of school work, programming for an event that I'm organizing, and notes for a series of projects that I've been working on. It was the "If I ever lose this notebook I'm $%#@@ notebook". I bought a new one and began the process of rebuilding several months worth of work, seeing an opportunity to improve upon the contents of the old one that had I'd probably put on top of my car before hitting the highway. Whats done is done and the only way to move is forward.<br />
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While filling in the new notebook with ideas, rough drafts, and papers that I was now writing for the second time I started to think of how I might have reacted to a setback like this a few years ago...<br />
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A friend of mine who is an avid racer/runner went on vacation to Oregon last week. He went for the first run of his trip and returned to find the window of his friends car smashed and his gym bag containing his running gear, his phone, and his wallet had been stolen. He mentioned this in passing as he described what a great vacation he had running on the trails in the North West. Only one way to move-forward.<br />
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This made me think of the lessons that we learn through running, competing in races, and following the discipline of a training program and how they shape our attitudes towards the hurdles, large or small, that we come across in our lives Here's something that stuck with me and I wanted to share it: <br />
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When you run into a challenge during a race or a hard training session (a killer course that you weren't prepared for, the ice storm/snow storm/bone-chill cold of (most) Maine winters, realizing that you made a wrong turn on the course) you're faced with two choices-move forward or quit. There is no time to dwell on this, no time for self-pity,no time to complain. Abandoning your forward progress, even for a second, only prolongs the situation that you're in. You can either suck it up or give it up. Two choices. No in-between. Move forward or quit.<br />
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I think that this all or nothing approach to forward progress rubs off on all of us who push ourselves to the finish lines-both the ones marked with tape at the of a race and the ones that are waiting for us at the end of our goals, dreams, and desires that we will either reach, or abandon, when faced with the inevitable challenges that await us on the course. We'll either move forward-or quit.<br />
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I wrote this post so that I can look back on it the next time that I'm reconsidering putting one foot in front of the other and taking the next step when I know that I have it in me,somewhere deep in the reserves, to do so. And I hope that some one else who reads it does the same...<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-63720090567958552602012-03-08T08:06:00.001-08:002012-03-08T08:06:13.275-08:00Good Company<strong>"The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best."<br />- Epictetus</strong><br />
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I came across this quote and wanted to share it. I think its a good one to keep in mind as we take a look at our "inner circle" and ask ourselves a) whether the people in our lives fill this role and <br />
b) if we uplift, inspire, and bring forth the best in the lives of those around us.<br />
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It also made me think of the supportive atmosphere that I see developing at our weekly Monday night group runs. Some of us are just discovering running while others are experienced racers...but everyone has worked together to create an uplifting environment where we can put forth our best. <br />
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Good company for sure...<br />
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Join us on Monday nights at Local Sprouts Cafe, 649 Congress St. at 6p for our weekly group run through Portlands West End. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-33493109975354665952012-02-27T17:09:00.001-08:002012-02-27T17:09:57.083-08:00Launch ME Initiative<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://maine.theleague.com/">The Maine League of Young Voters</a> is holding a contest offering community organizations a small start-up grant. The Launch Maine Initiative will highlight projects that work to empower local youth and X-City Running has thrown it's name in the hat and applied. One of the requirements for the contest was to submit a short video illustrating your project. Here's what we came up with:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw7jS0E98fQyV7sb-qI1xX08GdczPxD59ZSut1XDGpsY79urh4-yASS_R2RRHmKOhOKWU2ZFmYpeAuFl7bnLQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-19403344033613396272012-02-26T11:48:00.000-08:002012-02-26T11:48:00.802-08:00Keeping PaceI just learned about PacePal, a locally founded site helping runners connect with others in their area. Joining the Pacepal community is a great way to meet others with similar training goals. The site was founded by runners, for runners, and is quickly becoming an international resource for runners of all abilities to join together and do what we do Check it out: <a href="http://www.pacepal.com/">www.pacepal.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-77799875549472250382012-02-24T11:18:00.001-08:002012-02-24T11:18:49.994-08:00Running Out of TimeIn his book Born to Run Christopher McDougal exposed the world to the distinct culture of the Tarahumara, a group of indigenous people living in the Canyons of Mexico's Sierra Madre Occidental, renowned for their long distance running ability. <br />
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The Tarahumara have used this ability to survive as a people while maintaining their traditional way of living the for the past two thousand years.<br />
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Today their way of life is being threatened by illegal logging, narcotic-trafficking, and climate change. <br />
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<a href="http://www.peaceactionme.org/">Peace Action Maine</a> is showing the film <strong>Mexico'a Tarahumara: Running Out of Time</strong> at the Meg Perry Center on Monday February 27th from 5-7p.<br />
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The film will be followed by a presentation of photographs and additional video material along with information on how you can get involved in the effort to protect the culture of the Tarahumara people and the land on which they live.<br />
<br />Click <a href="http://www.peaceactionme.org/blog/monday-feb27th-5-7pm-mexicos-tarahumara%E2%80%89-running-out-time">here</a> for more information on this event:Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-55756415469483393372012-02-08T06:13:00.000-08:002012-02-08T06:13:41.277-08:00About Sprouts<div class="nth-child-odd nth-child-105">
On Monday night several of us met at Local Sprouts Cafe on Congress St. to kick off the first of the weekly X-City Running group runs. This marked the first of many Mondays when runners dressed in day-glo green and "ahhh, my eyes!" orange will crowd in the doorway of this vibrant community space, stretching against the big brick building, and distracting the cafe's customers before heading out for a few moonlit miles through the West End.</div>
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I wanted to take a second to highlight how Local Sprouts came to be the lucky recipient of all this unsolicited runner love and how it fits in to the mission of X-City Running. </div>
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Local Sprouts Cafe grew from the seeds of the Peoples Free Space, a Portland based community organization focused on creating collective spaces for sharing information and resources, building community, and fostering sustainable alternatives and creative resistance to social, economical, political, ecological oppression. </div>
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Over the years the Peoples Free Space went though the challenges and transitions of any upstart community organization, but the people involved in it's inception have stayed true to the principles that the organization was founded on. They have since put these principles into practice by opening the Meg Perry Center, a community meeting space dedicated to educational change and social action, followed by the opening of the highly successful Local Sprouts Cafe located directly across the street.</div>
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Local Spouts Cafe has some of the best food in town and is also home to the Bomb Diggity Bakery which is always putting out a delicious selection of desserts. But, good grub aside, it is the values of this co-operatlily owned and operated cafe that I wanted to shine a lightmon:</div>
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<strong><em>"Local Sprouts focuses on using local and organic ingredients to build connections to our community, to grow sustainability, to support Maine farmers, to protect our environment, and to build our local economy. We are a worker-owned cooperative that believes in creating a democratic and equitable business to serve our workers and our community"</em></strong>-from the Local Sprouts website</div>
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The goal of X-City Running is to strengthen the local running community while strengthening the community that we run in. With that in mind, I couldn't think of a better place to bombard with hungry runners who'll drink up all of their coffee and clean out the Bomb Diggity bakery counter on any given Monday night. </div>
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So that's what 'Spouts is all about. If you want to learn more visit their <a href="http://www.localsproutscooperative.com/">site</a> and check out the menu, upcoming events at the 'cafe, and information on how to become a member of the co-op. </div>
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And if you want come bursting in the door.all sweaty and loud and talking about running while eyeing up the last cookie in the case then join us on Monday nights at 6p for the X-City weekly run!</div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-75283059413611508702012-02-04T15:36:00.000-08:002012-02-04T15:36:33.213-08:001 More Mile ChallengeI've been deeply inspired by local runner, coach, and author Blaine Moore's upcoming endurance event to raise funds for <a href="http://www.campsunshine.org/">Camp Sunshine</a>, a recreational camp in Casco, Maine for children with life threatening illnesses and their families. Please take a second to watch a <a href="http://news.runtowin.com/2012/02/02/1-more-mile-for-sunshine-2012-edition.html">short video</a> from Blaine as he explains what the 1 More Mile Challenge is all about and how you can get involved.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-18710704083555203322012-02-01T10:46:00.000-08:002012-02-01T10:46:20.125-08:00A Running StartAs I spoke with members of community organizations throughout Portland about our upcoming group runs it became clear that a lack of winter running gear will be a barrier to participation for many who might otherwise want to run. I had been kicking around the concept of something called the Running Start Program and wanted to share the idea.<br />
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The program would involve creating a wish list based on the needs of those who've expressed interest in running and soliciting used gear from members of the athletic community to match these needs. Aspiring runners could then be matched up with those who are donating their used gear and exchange a service that would further the donating members running progress (taking care of a household chore so that the donator can sneak in a run that they otherwise would have missed, helping to compile training data from a running log, listening to you recount every detail from your first marathon which takes longer to tell then it did to run it...) for the piece of gear that they need to begin running themselves. Runners helping runners.<br />
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Just an idea at this point but wanted to share it, get feedback on how the program could be alternately implemented or improved, and ask anyone who is about to ditch an old pair of running shoes to hold off...they could end up giving someone in the neighborhood a running start.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-23537546810325674052012-01-25T12:39:00.000-08:002012-02-06T16:16:10.127-08:00Wanna race?<br />
Racing is an experience like no other. Some of us race to compete with others and some to compete with ourselves. Some line up to share in the pre-race jitters, the pure exhiliration of running in a pack, and the post-race camaraderie. Others for the free t-shirt...<br />
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But I think that for most of us it's a combination of these things that draw us to the starting line of a race. In every race that I've trained for, run, and reflected on afterwards, I've learned someting about myself. And for the price of participation (measured partly in dollars and cents but mostly in dedication, sweat, and hard earned miles) it's one of the most valuable and personal lessons that you can invest in. So whether you've got your sights set on your first finish line or you're a crazy competetive speed demon looking for your next P.R make 2012 your year to race!<br />
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Here are a couple of great races that are taking place over the next few months::<br />
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<strong>Bradbury White-Out 4.5 Mile Snowshoe Race: February 12th</strong>, <strong>Powna</strong>l<br />
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<a href="http://www.trailmonsterruning.com/">Trail Monster Running</a> hosts some of the best races around, period. With the second annual Bradbury White-Out Snow Shoe race right around the corner I would urge a) anyone has never raced before to come and check out the festivites, lend a helping hand, and experience the camaraderie around the campfire as finishers come plowng through the snow and across the finish line b) anyone who has never run a snowshoe race to immediatley purchase a pair of Dion Snowshoes (a great local distributor who has been a supporter of both Trail Monster Running and the Maine runnng community in general), register for the race before it sells out, and begin charging up hills and across frozen rivers, yowling like a yetti, in preparation, or c)anyone who is not in a position to purchase snow shoes at this time to check out Trail Monster Running for information on possibly getting a loaner pair for the race. It's going to be 4.5 miles of snow-kicking, trail running, mountain madness and is not to be missed! Check out the Brabury White-Out,the other races in the snowshoe series, and the best trail running site around by clicking <a href="http://www.trailmonsterrunning.com/">here</a><br />
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<strong>Race the Runways: 1 mile, 5k, 1/2 Marathon, and Airport Challenge (Run the 1 Miler and the 1/2 Marathon): April 7th, Brunswick</strong><br />
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I just learned about this race from an X-City Running member who plans to compete in the 1/2 Marathon. Others have expressed interest as well and so it is highly possible that a carpool will be leaving the Portland area on April 7th to race on the runway of the Brunswick Airport. According to the race website the course is pancake flat offering a good shot at setting a personal record (as well as offering the unique experience of being able to see the finish line from the starting line in the 5k). What I like about this race is the opportunity for a wide range of runners to share in a unique experience together based on the 1-14 mile distance options. The race is also a benefit for Veterens No Boundaries, an adaptive recreation program for veterans and active military personale with physical disablities. Visit the race website <a href="http://www.racetherunways.com/">here</a><br />
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<strong>Patriots Day 5 Miler April 15th, Portland</strong><br />
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From all accounts this is a fun and well organized race right here in the city. If you're looking to make the jump from a 5k to 10k this will be a great opportunity to make the transition. I don't know anything more about this event but you can check out Maine Track Clubs profile of the race by clicking <a href="http://www.mainetrackclub.com/page/show/270334-patriots-day-5-miler">here</a><br />
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If you end up running one of these, write in and tell us about it. If you're looking for training partners show up at our upcoming group runs or join our <a href="http://www.meetup.com/XCityRunning/">meetup group</a> to connect with other X-City Running members, And if you're interested in more races in and around the Portland area check back soon for more race profiles, info, and updates, from X-City Running.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-86352413363104766352012-01-21T08:57:00.000-08:002012-01-21T13:20:15.464-08:00Thoughts to run with...On a recent run with a friend we got to talking about discipline and accountability in relation to running. I thought the conversation was worth sharing...<br />
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It takes a certain kind of discipline to show up for work on time each day. You're boss is expecting you to be there. It takes the same kind of discipline to show up prepared for school each morning. Your teacher will be taking attendance and your parents will be expecting you bring home a passing grade.<br />
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But what about when no one is watching, waiting, or expecting anything of you? When you have no one to impress or let down other than yourself? When the alarm goes off on a cold and uninviting morning and there is nothing awaiting you but the dark and empty streets, and still you rise, you dress, and you run. This takes another kind of discipline all together.<br />
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Running is one of the few things that we do exclusively for ourselves. Our goals are personal and our failures and accomplishments are as well. The choice to continue running or to put our shoes in the closet for the last time is entirely our own. And we own it entirely.<br />
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Whether we are responsible for raising a child or caring for someone in our lives, depended upon by a boss, or relied on by a friend, our ability to "come through" for others is directly related to our ability to "come through" for ourselves. And every run is an opportunity to do just that.<br />
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Just a few thoughts to run with....<br />
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More on our weekly group runs, some upcoming races in and around Portland, and the progress we've made on our 2012 goals coming soon.<br />
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Happy running from X-City<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-51133692634250267002012-01-16T07:33:00.000-08:002012-01-16T07:33:57.875-08:00Remembering MLK<br />
As many of us are enjoying a day off from work (and spending a portion of it making up the miles we missed during yesterdays cold snap) I wanted to take the time to honor the great civil rights leader who's birthday we are collectively -but often unconsciously-celebrating. <br />
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The following 5 mini-bio is a powerful reminder of all that MLK lived for, fought for, and ultimately gave his life for: <a href="http://youtu.be/3ank52Zi_S0">http://youtu.be/3ank52Zi_S0</a><br />
<br />However you're spending the holiday I'd urge you to turn your thoughts, even briefly, to the courage and dedication of Dr. King and question what areas of our society are still dominated by racism and segregation. And what we can do to carry on MLK's legacy through our actions in the year ahead.<br />
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Happy Martin Luther King day and happy running from X-City.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-50755177382439525552012-01-14T12:13:00.000-08:002012-02-06T16:16:32.653-08:00The Run Down: City's Edge 6 MilerI like a run with a destination. A run that "goes somewhere". And, if I had a friend with a car and nothing else to do but pick me up from long runs and bring me back to where I started, I would opt to run "somewhere" every time. <br />
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The next best thing is an out-and-back or a nice loop route. And one of my favorites is a 'round the city run that I'm calling the City's Edge 6 Miler.<br />
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I start from Deering Oaks Park and after exploring all of the trails, bridges, and old concrete structures that the park has to offer, I turn right onto Park Avenue and left onto Bramhall.<br />
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Bramhall St is a hill and a half! By the time that you reach Congress you should be sufficiently warmed up and ready for your run around the City's Edge. Keep on going down Bramhall, past Maine Medical Center, and you'll find yourself on the Western Promenade. There are a series of trails on the 'prom that you can play on before running down to Danforth St. and turning left towards the city center.<br />
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Enjoy the quiet run down Danforth before reaching the well traveled and high traffic streets of the Old Port (which is it's own kind of fun-just be careful!). Choose a right turn to Commercial St. (any one will do) and run straight until you reach the railroad tracks and the start of the Eastern Promenade trail. Enjoy the views along the EPT (and consider running up the Fort Allen Steps coming up on your left...if you're so inclined) until you reach the access point to East Beach. Now you're at the bottom of the Eastern Promenade. And you need to be at the top. So, one way or another, you're heading up. I prefer bounding up the big hill but that's just me....<br />
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A left on Congress St, a sprint down the hill, and a right onto Forest will have you back at Deering Oaks after roughly 6 miles of cross-city running!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-63439051122524889802012-01-10T09:01:00.000-08:002012-01-10T09:01:12.042-08:00Calling all Artists!The X-City Running pamphlets are almost complete and ready for distribution, except for a large, blank space, on the front cover....<br />
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X-City needs a logo! <br />
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We are requesting logo submissions that reflect the goals of the project, in particular the connection between running and personal/community development.<br />
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Once the pamphlets are complete we can begin approaching organizations that provide support services to Portland residents with clear and concise outreach material to distribute among their client base.<br />
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If you have any ideas please send 'em to <a href="mailto:dbidler@gmail.com">dbidler@gmail.com</a><br />
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Many thanks from X-City Running!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-34985715390639675522012-01-05T12:26:00.000-08:002012-01-05T12:26:47.546-08:001st Friday Art WalkIt's always fun to run through Portland's First Friday Art Walk and dig the festivities! We're meeting at <a href="http://www.hilltopcoffeeshop.com/">Hill Top Coffee</a>, 90 Congress St in Portland, for a relaxed run through the Art's District. Plan is to run along the waterfront via the Eastern Promenade Trail, through the city past performers, exhibits, and art-walkers, and back up the Hill for a total of around 3 miles. Be at Hill Top at 5:30 if you want to run!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-12172166633209170542012-01-03T13:07:00.000-08:002012-01-09T01:28:57.298-08:002012 GoalsThe following are X-City Running's goals for the upcoming year. They are big goals and will require the insight, support, and active involvement of many in order to accomplish. But, as T.S Eliot said, in a quote that can be applied just as well to running as to the goals that we set for ourselves -<br />
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"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go."</div>
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If you are interested in getting involved with X-City Running and working with us to accomplish these goals give us a shout!<br />
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Happy 2012 and Happy Running!<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">X-City Running's 2012 Goals</span></strong> </div>
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<strong>* Weekly Group Runs</strong>-Beginning in February X-City Running will begin hosting weekly group runs. These runs will focus on creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for new runners. We will be running at a relaxed pace and absolutely <u>no one</u> will be left behind. Check back soon for details on time, dates. and location.<br />
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<strong>* Increased Visibility</strong>-In order to keep X-City Running visible and accessible to community members who aren't linked in to the social media scene we will be going old school when promoting our runs and upcoming events. Think flyer's, pamphlets, local newspapers, and community bulletin boards. If you have any ideas for creative, community based promotion, please share.<br />
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<strong>* Reducing Barriers to Participation</strong>-I wrote in a recent blog post that running through a Maine winter requires two things: mental fortitude, and gear. Anyone considering joining us for our winter runs likely possesses the first. But many lack the second. X-City Running will be exploring options to provide adequate running gear to recipients of the city's support services (rehabilitation centers, homeless shelters, post-release centers) who express an interest in running. We will also be soliciting and posting tips for gearing up on the cheap.<br />
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Another barrier that can be overcome through creativity, the use of a warm community space, and a handful of volunteers is childcare, Again, ideas are not only welcomed and encouraged...they are critical to the success of this project. Share 'em if you've got 'em!<br />
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<strong>* Building Community</strong>-We will be exploring partnerships with organizations that provide resources to Portlander's struggling through economic hardship, chemical dependency, homelessness, or other barriers to personal independence. We will also be identifying ways to support the efforts of these organization while involving program recipients either though running or by becoming involved in the organizing process.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-52734023146519429132012-01-01T12:52:00.000-08:002012-01-01T12:52:09.327-08:00Happy New Year from X-City!Happy New Year from X-City Running!<br />
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It was good to see everyone who came out for X-City's first annual New Years Day Resolution Run!<br />
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For the time being X-City will be hosting a community group run once a month. In the meantime we've set up a Google Group to allow members to post their running plans and invite others to join. If you would like to be part of this group send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:dbidler@gmail.com">dbidler@gmail.com</a> and we'll send you an official invite.<br />
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We've also set up shop on Facebook so like us/friend us and check back here often for X-City updates.<br />
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Happy 2012!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-79938765240394567512011-12-31T10:30:00.000-08:002011-12-31T10:40:03.166-08:00Runner's Almanac 2012I went for a run with marathon coach and local running guru Blaine Moore this morning. Blaine is the owner of the popular blog and newsletter <a href="http://www.runtowin.com/">Run to Win</a> and just published an innovative and highly functional training journal entitled <a href="http://www.therunnersalmanac.com/">The Runner's Almanac</a>. I recently wrote about the benefits of keeping a training log and would recommend this inspirational book to anyone considering taking up the practice for 2012! Check it out!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-56875475395454708932011-12-30T12:52:00.000-08:002011-12-30T12:52:30.066-08:00Resolution Run!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">X-City Running's New Year's Resolution Run will take place this Sunday, January 1st.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Join us
for a 1, 3, or 5 mile run to ring in 2012 with friends, family, and
community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will be enjoying the views
from the Eastern Promenade, exploring some local trails, climbing Munjoy Hill,
and casting our New Year's resolutions over the rooftops of the city from one
of Portland's most scenic overlooks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The pace will be relaxed, the vibes will be good, and
absolutely no one will be left behind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Meet at the corner of Congress St. and the Eastern Promenade at 10a ready to run!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Have a safe holiday weekend and we hope to see you on Sunday morning!</span></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-36866045854793075142011-12-23T18:13:00.000-08:002012-01-13T07:49:55.141-08:00Training (b)LogFor the first time since I've started running I'm keeping (and keeping up with) a daily training log. There are plenty of obvious benefits to tracking your workouts i.e , keeping an eye on your progress, adding up your weekly miles, etc. but I wanted to highlight some of the less obvious and, for me, some of the most beneficial aspects of logging/blogging your runs:<br />
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<b>Reflection:</b> It only takes a second to jot down the time/pace/distance of your run.. But it's worth taking an extra minute to reflect on your overall experience. For me, the practice of stepping back and giving thought to what I've learned and gained on an everyday basis has added further value to my running. While not every run needs to turn into an essay (a problem of mine...take a look at my training log and you'll see what I mean) adding a few standout details can turn a stack of data into a living, breathing, collection of memories.</div>
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<strong>Follow-through: </strong><em> </em>I usually end a log entry with my plans for the following day. In the past I've had a problem with substituting tough workouts for easier ones (relaxed 3 miler along the Eastern Trail sounds more appealing than hill repeats on the Eastern Prom most days) postponing the hard workouts until...never. Now, when I sit down to write, I'm immediately faced with yesterdays post (and the workout that I'm supposed to be logging). This has added a level of personal accountability to my workouts and helped to develop the discipline of staying on program despite the variables that are sure to arise throughout the day.</div>
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<strong>Eliminating "Junk Miles": </strong>An ideal training week should include a few hard efforts (i.e speed work, hill repeats, a long run) balanced by a series of relaxed runs for both recovery and just plain enjoyment. When the words "relaxed", "easy","moderate" and "slow" make up the bulk of your weekly log it's easy to see what's missing (and what adjectives need to be included in next weeks log to spice up the writing and help you reach your goals).</div>
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<strong>Inspiration: </strong>This one has to do with the benefits of keeping a public log/blog and it's ability to inspire others. One of my greatest sources of inspiration is checking out the training blogs of friends and fellow runners. Learning that one of my friends was out in the cold morning rain or going long after a long day is a reminder of both our shared commitment and of the fact that some runs just plain suck...and yet we suck them up, run through them, and push ourselves to reach our goals. Sharing our challenges, occasional defeats, and personal victories with one another helps to build the type of community that extends beyond running. And it seems that all of us who contribute to building this community gain as much as we give. <br />
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So give the run,write,repeat formula a shot and, if it works for you, share it with somebody else.<br />
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Happy running from X-City!<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-51055008046670687742011-12-19T15:36:00.000-08:002011-12-19T17:51:21.503-08:00Running Down the WallsI wanted to share this article about a newly formed track team at the Long Creek Juvenile Detention Center in South Portland. This project speaks to the spirit of X-City Running and to the transformational power of running itself! <a href="http://www.pressherald.com/sports/over-capes-rolling-hills-right-on-track_2011-07-31.html">Steve Solloway: Over Cape's rolling hills, right on track The Portland Press Herald / Maine Sunday Telegram</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-68216310318413359172011-12-16T17:56:00.000-08:002011-12-17T16:37:21.545-08:00X-City @ Meet-Up.comX-City Running member Brian McCambridge recently set up a meet-up.com site for the group. Check it out at: <a href="http://www.meetup.com/XCityRunning/" target="_blank">http://www.meetup.com/<wbr></wbr>XCityRunning/</a><br />
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Site looks great Brian! Let's get a good turnout for the Resolution Run on January 1st!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1590808318027036230.post-63391626871908453642011-12-12T19:05:00.000-08:002011-12-14T17:40:24.905-08:00Running into winterThe short days are upon us and the winter winds are moving in. And here in Maine, those winds can be downright brutal. Add in the occasional blizzard, icy streets, and mountains of snow piled up along the roadside and, if you're a runner, you've got yourself a challenge. But that's what you came for...right?<br />
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If you run you are tough. It takes strength, willpower, and determination to meet the challenges of maintaining a consistent running program. Sometimes it means running at the end of a long day at work to meet a goal that you've set for yourself. Other times it means sacrificing an extra hour of sleep to make sure that you get your miles in. Every time it means avoiding the path of least resistance. And, every year, it means facing the challenges of winter.<br />
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To run through a Maine winter you need two things: Mental fortitude and some decent running gear. <br />
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Fortitude is defined as the mental and emotional strength to face difficulty, adversity, danger, or temptation courageously. Without it the best gear in the world won't do you any good.<br />
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But even the toughest runners benefit from the relative comfort of good winter running gear. It doesn't have to cost you a ton of money to "gear up" for the season and I'll be posting tips for staying warm and safe on a budget in the weeks to come.<br />
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One of the simplest, and most effective, is the practice of "<a href="http://trailmonsterrunning.blogspot.com/2008/01/screw-shoes.html">screwing</a>" your shoes and comes from <a href="http://www.trailmonsterrunning.blogspot.com/">Ian</a> of Trail Monster Running. With a trip to the local hardware store and a couple of dollars you can turn your regular running shoes into ice-gripping, no-slipping, winter running machines. This got me through my first season of winter running and I hope that it gets others out the door and on the roads as well.<br />
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More on winter running and details on the New Years Day Resolution Run coming soon!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0