See Ya 2008...and Good Riddance! Moving Forward to 2009.

Hi All,

Thanks for making adidas Urban Run SF another fun year! We've enjoyed (or endured) short, long, and (ahem!) interesting routes together. I hope that those that didn't win the raffle this year will have the upper hand in 2009! We also owe a bunch of Urban run shirts to those who have been committed in running with us on a regular basis.

Honorable mentions go out to our most consistent Urban Runners of 2008: Mercedes Acosta with 33 runs and Jimmy Hwang with 41 runs this year. They both deserve a prize so I will have to dig something up (not literally) to show our appreciation.

We will not have a run on December 29th. It would be a little daft of us to set up a run wedged in between Christmas and New Year's when everyone should be spending time with family and having fun elsewhere.

Finally, here are the courses for January:

January 5 - California-Broadway-Stockton 4.7 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Powell Street
-Left on California Street
-Right on Fillmore Street
-Right on Broadway Street (and through tunnel)
- Right on Stockton Street (and through tunnel)
-Right on Market Street
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2450646

January 12 - Race of Truth 5K route...but is actually 5 miles total, starting and finishing from the adidas store.

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2085620

This is a FUN RUN this month. Runners and walkers start at adidas Sport Performance Store on Market Street to the Ferry Building. Runners/walkers proceed southeast on The Embarcadero and will pass the Willie Mays statue at AT&T Park and take a left onto Third Street. The turnaround is on the corner of Terry Francois and 3rd St. after you cross the drawbridge. After the turnaround, run back on the drawbridge and make a right, along the back of the AT&T Park and return to Ferry Building via The Embarcadero and back on Market Street to the adidas store for the finish.

We welcome comments on making Urban Run better for 2009! After all, you guys are making it all happen!

adidas Urban Run SF - December 22, 2008 - SHOE RAFFLE

ROUTE - Broadway-Grant (2.8 miles)

-Start at the adidas Sport Performance store
-Right on Market Street
-Left on The Embarcadero
-Left on Broadway
-Left on Grant Ave
-Right on Market Street
-Finish at the adidas Sport Performance store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1419015

Photos: Birthday Mile and 5K

Thanks, everyone, for coming to Kezar Track on a cold Thursday night. Also, very special thanks to Paul Mosel for taking these pictures!

The results can be found here: Birthday Mile and 5K RESULTS


Beginning of 5K


Jin taking first place in the mile at 4:33!


Runners take off for the mile!



Runners take their position!

Waiting to clear the track

Instructions

Kennet is clearly photogenic.

This is the way I want to remember Kezar Track on a crisp evening!

adidas Urban Run SF - December 22, 2008 - RAFFLE MONDAY

All,

Sorry for being late last night, I really thought I might have had to cancel the run! It sucks to be late at work trying to push out the final copies of the board presentation in the 11th hour!

Just a reminder...this Monday is the shoe raffle and last Urban Run for the year. We will not have a run on December 29th since both Warren and I won't be around. But runs will resume January 5th. You are free to conduct your own run if you wish. The route will be posted soon, or if you have one in mind, email it to me.

adidas Urban Run SF - December 15, 2008

ROUTE – Pier 39 or Aquatic Park run

• Start at the adidas Sport Performance store
• Right on Market Street
• Left on Embarcadero

o Turnaround at Pier 39 (Embarcadero @ Bay St.) for 4 mile run
o Turnaround at Jefferson/Hyde for 6 mile run

• Return onto Embarcadero
• Right on Market Street
• Finish at the adidas Sport Performance store

Unofficial Birthday Mile and 5K Results

Sorry if I miscalculated your time or if I left you out. Please correct me if I'm wrong. You guys and gals were just too damn fast!

MILE

Jin 4:33
Steve 5:17
Oliver 5:20
Eduardo 5:20
Jorge 5:21
Kennet 5:22
Jason 5:52
Felix 5:54
Philippe 7:17
Sanny 7:27
Christina 8:57
Chatree 8:57

5K

Jin 18:16
Eduardo 19:59
Sean 20:12
Steve 20:39
Jason 21:18
*Jorge 17:42 (@ 4600m)
*Kennet 17:43 (@ 4600m)

Final Instructions for Birthday Mile and 5K

Sorry, registration has ended. Spectators and volunteers are welcome to attend.

Race date and location
Kezar Track on December 11th at 6:45PM
We will meet inside the north side of Kezar Track parallel to Lincoln Blvd.
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2434321
-Mile begins at 7:00PM
-5K begins at 7:15PM

Getting Setup
Please arrive on time so that I can get a head count and distribute bib numbers. I may need a volunteer to keep track of people running laps as I record times.

Bib number assignments

Rumesha 44 Philippe 17 Emily 30
Jeremy 45 Chris 46 Aubrey 24
Jin 31 Ky 47 Joanne 48
Mary 49 Cindy 50 Alice 19
Melissa 33 Jamison 51 Bee-Oh 34
Dave 35 Sean 36 Annie 52
Sanny 53 Phyllis 54 Chenyi 55
Kennet 56 Katy 15 Jamie 37
Chikara 13 Matt 38 Nicole 57
Jason 39 Jorge 23 Joel 58
Michael 59 Christina 40 PC 60
Thang 61 Chia 62 Chatree 41
Eduardo 42 John 43 Stacey 63
Felix 11

If you don’t see your name, don’t worry. Let me know and arrive before 6:45 and we can work it out.

Prizes
Overall M/F winner for mile and overall M/F winner of 5K will receive either Power Endurance and Recovery Drinks or Powerbar Gel Blasts AND a choice of Powerbar gear. Double dipping is allowed! That means if you win mile and 5K you get both drinks and gel blasts!
Other runners will receive choice of surprise goody bag or Powerbar gear. If we have leftovers, we will raffle them off.

Snacks and Refreshments
Donuts provided, but you are free to bring (non-alcoholic) drinks and other snacks provided that you help clean up after event.

Advance special thanks goes out to Paul Mosel, race photographer for the event.

Contact
adidassfurbanrun@hotmail.com

Birthday Mile and 5K and Monthly Shoe Raffle - December 22nd

Please note that the shoe raffle for this month will be held on December 22nd. It will be the last adidas Urban Run SF for this year, but we will return in January.

Also, please confirm your spot for Birthday Mile and 5K on Thursday, December 11th, 6:45PM at Kezar Track, if you plan to attend. I need to finalize raffle prizes and/or goody bags. You can accept the invitation on our adidas Urban Run SF Facebook page titled "Birthday Mile and 5K"

adidas Urban Run SF - December 8, 2008

Here's the course map:
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2085620

No Bib Numbers necessary as this is a FUN RUN this month. No timing this month. Runners and walkers assemble no later at 6:45PM by Ferry Building, where we've always met for previous 5K's, and proceed southeast on The Embarcadero. Runners/walkers will then pass the Willie Mays statue and take a left onto Third Street. The turnaround is on the corner of Terry Francois and 3rd St. after you cross the drawbridge. After the turnaround, run back on the drawbridge and make a right, along the back of the AT&T Park and return to Ferry Building via The Embarcadero for the finish.

adidas Urban Run SF - December 1, 2008

Battery-Stockton-Grant - 4.1 Mile

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Market Street
-Left on Drumm Street
-Left on Jackson Street
-Right on Battery Street
-Left on The Embarcadero
-Left on Stockton Street
-Left on Pacific Street
-Right on Grant Street
-Right on Market Street
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2421093

Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon & 5K

A bit of a shameless plug...registration is now up for the Kaiser Permanente Half Marathon and 5K presented by Pamakid Runners at http://www.pamakids.org/ New next year will be chip timing! The shirt design is also featured on the main page.

Also, please join the Pamakid Runners Club for its 2nd Speaker Series Event:

Running a Marathon: Which training, pre-race and race strategies work for you?
When? Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
Where? Sports Basement, 1590 Bryant Street (@ 15th Street), San Francisco, CA
For more information, please go to: http://www.pamakids.org/

*Warren will be out till next year and we wish him a good trip in Asia. So please bear with me. This Monday's course will be up this wknd.

**Finally, I'm tentatively planning "My Birthday mile and 5K event" at Kezar Stadium on Thursday, Dec 11 @ 7PM (mile) 7:15PM (5K). We can make it fun and have a race walking mile, but that's your choice (race walk 5K would be too long and boring). All participants will be timed. It's dependent on how many people are interested and if Kezar is available that night for us. Prizes for 1st overall M/F and both races and other free schwag will be given to participants (VERY LIMITED). Please let me know if you are interested!

adidas Urban Run SF - November 24, 2008

ROUTE - California-Fillmore-Stockton 10K

- Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
- Powell St.
- Left on California St.
- Right on Fillmore St.
- Right on Marina Blvd.
- Take running/bike path near Marina and Laguna St.
- Go down McDowell Road
- Follow road to Van Ness for 100 meters to path leading to Beach St.
(Take quick left onto path passing ABOVE the Maritime Museum. Don't run along the promenade by
the bay...that will lead to Jefferson St.)
- Enter Beach St. and pass the cable car turnaround.
- Right on Columbus Ave.
- Right on Stockton St.
- Right on Market St.
- Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

Follow link to course map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2406370

*Upcoming Races

• Run for the Hungry 5K and Mile - November 23 http://www.peopleevents.org/Run_For_The_Hungry_2008.html
• Great Highway 4 Mile - November 23
  www.dserunners.com
• **Turkey Trail Trot 5 Mile- THANKSGIVING DAY - November 27
  http://www.turkeytrailtrot.com/2008/
• Run Wild for a Child 5K/10K - November 30
  http://www.rhodyco.com/runwild.html
• Miles for Migraine 5K/10K/ 2Mile - December 7
  http://www.milesformigraine.org/

* All of these races are SUPER FAST!
** The Turkey Trail Trot benefits the Lowell High School Track Team. Past raffle prizes have included free turkeys, wine, sparkling cider, pumpkin pie, apple pie, and other goodies. Top 3 M/F Overall and Division awards and top 3 Lowell alumni awards.

adidas Urban Run SF - November 17, 2008

Route - Powell-Stockton 4 Mile

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
- Powell St.
- Left on Columbus St.
- Right on Beach St.
- Right on Stockton St.
- Right on Market St.
- Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2399515

adidas Urban Run 5K - November 2008 RESULTS

I would like to give special thanks to Endomondo for making our event even more fun. Endomondo is composed of four visonaries--Mette Lykke, Jakob Nordenhof Jønck, Christian Birk, and Christian Hage--who have created GPS monitoring service applications on cell phones, specifically for recreational and competitive athletes. Christian Birk was a former 400m Danish champion, Mette was an active horse rider in dressage and jumping, and Jakob was a professional ski instructer and skiier. They all came out Monday evening to conduct more research and give test trial runs to perfect their product using some of our runners as guinea pigs. Endomondo was officially launched in the Copenhagen DHL Relay Race, a 5 day relay in the beginning of September. Link: http://www.stafet.dk/ To find out more about their exciting service where you can upload and download your running routes or compare your mile splits with a running community or see how fast your friends are running RIGHT NOW go to http://www.endomondo.com/

5K RESULTS
November 10, 2008 6:50PM Wind was not a factor, cool weather...making a PR filled day.

Chikara 17:13
Oliver 17:55
Jorge 19:01
Jason 19:59
Felix 20:56
Chris C. 21:06
Patrick 22:59
Doug 23:24
Jimmy 23:35
Philippe 24:21
Rosa 24:24
Katy 24:25
Steve 25:01
Helen 25:08
Kate 25:47
Sanny 27:00
Walter 28:00
Alice 29:15
Bib #25 29:45
Melissa 34:18
Elaine " "
Elaine " "
Mercedes 35:53
Simon 36:00

adidas Urban Run 5K - November 10, 2008

The adidas Urban Run 5K will be held Monday, November 10. This is ALWAYS a FREE event! Here's the course map:http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2085620

Please note the "new" route. This was the original route, but was changed due to Giants games @ AT&T Park. Pick up bib numbers at adidas Sport Performance Store before 6:30PM and jog to start. Runners and walkers assemble no later at 6:45PM by Ferry Building, where we've always met for previous 5K's, and proceed southeast on The Embarcadero. Runners/walkers will then pass the Willie Mays statue and take a left onto Third Street. The turnaround is on the corner of Terry Francois and 3rd St. after you cross the drawbridge. After the turnaround, run back on the drawbridge and make a right, along the back of the AT&T Park and return to Ferry Building via The Embarcadero for the finish.

adidas Urban Run SF - November 3, 2008

ELECTION RUN - Nov 3, 2008 ~3.3 Miles

Whatever your political affiliation, we are going to run left and run right. But we are not going to run middle of the road...you will get hurt!

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Left on Market St.
-Right on Mason
-Left on Post
-Left on Van Ness
-Left on Grove
-Left on Dr. Carlton Goodlet Place, which turns into Polk Street
-Right on Post
-Right on Stockton
-Right on Market
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2374559

Bananas, NYC Marathon, and Pictures!

Hey Everyone,

On Monday, I discussed the importance of bananas (in addition to other carbohydrate-rich fruits and nutrient dense vegetables) in aiding muscle recovery by 20% to some of you. I couldn't find the source, but I do remember seeing it on either Runner's World or Running Times. I find that just eating a banana is not sufficient for a long run, but it is the perfect food with a cup of Gatorade or water 10 minutes before a hard tempo run or track workout. It provides essential energy without any fat to bog you down. Anyway, here's a link that explains the wonders of the banana, propaganda from Chiquita: Banana Facts

Universal Sports, in conjunction with NBC Sports, will present live webcast coverage of the 2008 ING New York City Marathon (coverage begins at 8:45am ET) on Sunday, November 2 at UniversalSports.com. The ING New York City Marathon webcast will be available worldwide and free to all viewers.
In addition to the webcast, viewers can watch a live TV broadcast of the ING New York City Marathon on the Universal Sports @ 6AM-11AM PST.

Universal Sports Network, a 24-hour television channel available to 30 million households including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington DC, Chicago, Dallas / Ft. Worth, Hartford / New Haven, Omaha (Neb.), Las Vegas and Reno (Nev.). Universal Sports is home to the World Marathon Majors (Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London and New York City) and includes a special marathon section updated with news, photos, results and more on UniversalSports.com. Universal Sports is the preeminent year-round multi-platform destination of Olympic and lifestyle sports. Check your local listings to see if Universal Sports is available in your area. If not available, call your local cable or satellite provider to request.

Raymond, Fumiko, Hoa, and Jimmy

Post-run chatter

Scene from above

Elaine, Melissa, and Mercedes

Snacks


Melissa, Mercedes, and Sanny return from run.

Just in case you can't find us...

Jimmy, Chikara (in back), Hoa, and Aileen. We're glad to have Hoa come back and be silly.

Sean and Raymond firmly endorse adidas Urban Run SF.


Food and refreshments before runners arrive.

Mercedes...all in a day's (evening's) work.

The entire set of pictures will be posted on our Facebook page.

BTW, I will post the Monday Election Run route soon.

adidas Urban Run SF - October 27, 2008 - SHOE RAFFLE NIGHT

Route: Post-California 3.7 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Left on Market St.
-Right on Mason St.
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Webster St.
-Right on California St.
-Right on Powell St.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish as adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2360710

ANA Corporate Ekiden Relay - Co-director's Note

I'm helping out a friend who's trying to organize a cross country event in San Francisco on November 1st. Really, it's not about the running but the COOL PRIZES that they give out! You probably won't do another race like this with the amount of cool schwag and raffle prizes for runners. Here's his message:


"I'm trying to promote a corporate relay race where 4 pairs of tickets to Japan are going to be randomly given away. The whole thing is an attempt by ANA (the lesser known Japanese airline company) to get its name out there and market itself among companies that do business in Asia. Initially, we were trying to recruit teams off of a list, but that REALLY didn't go well at all and we had to push the event date back a few weeks to give us more time to recruit teams. As we became more desperate, we didn't care anymore if teams were on the list. Really, I shouldn't say "we," because it's not my ass on the line. However, I offered to help (I'm returning a favor, really) and if the project is a complete failure then I'll feel guilty and certainly at least a little responsible...
Anyway, what I really want to say is that at this point the event is essentially a raffle where you have REALLY good odds. It's $100/team of 4, so $25 per person, and a ticket to Japan is over $1000. They're giving out 8 total tickets (4 pairs) and there are probably only going to be about 30 teams (120 people total). This means that for $25 your expected value is $66.67 ($8000/120 people) so you'd have a positive expectation, which is more than one can say these days about most things, including Wall Street. Oh, and there's all-you-can eat/drink beer, sake, and BBQ chicken included as well.
To tell the truth, I'd so much rather be running and possibly winning the random prize, than be involved in the event as a worker. That aside, if ANYBODY READS THIS and you're free on NOVEMBER 1 in the morning, you should think about participating. Just ask and I'll give you all the fun details."

Click here for registration details

Oh boy, I also have another friend who is promoting the Miles for Migraine 5K, 10K, 2 Mile walk held on December 7, 2008. Race registration and course details can be found here .

Thanks!

adidas Urban Run SF - October 20, 2008

Sorry for the late posting on the route...it's been a LONG week! Below is a recycled route from August, but it's still very flat!! I hope those recovering from the Nike Marathon will still show up to at least walk a part of the route. Your legs easily forget what it takes to run even after a marathon. It's best to keep them moving with a slow jog/walk starting the day after a major event to keep the blood flowing (emphasis is on slow movement). Once you stop running for a few days/weeks, getting back to your best hurts even more. Running's always painful, didn't you already know that? :)

Route - Sansome-Drumm 3 Miles
-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Market St.
-Left on Sansome St.
-Right on Union St.
-Right on Front St.
-Left on Jackson St.
-Right on Drumm St.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2187319

View Google Maps Street View BEFORE run!

Good Luck, N*ke Women's Marathon Runners!

With a couple days before the big event, I want to wish everyone a good taper and wonderful marathon. It looks like the weather will be once again in your favor, runners. As far as I can tell on my early AM 15 mile run, no clouds in sight; it should hold out for the entire weekend. If you encounter bad patches or enter a lull during your marathon, make sure you get this song pounded into your skull: Panderers_Come_On . Although I don't encourage iPods or earphones during any race, I think you'll need this song in your head after mile 20! :)

I'll shorten my run to cheer you on this Sunday!

ANA Corporate Ekiden Relay: Part II

Okay, nobody tells me these things. But I guess a lot of you were wondering what was up with that Ekiden Relay held last weekend. For those that don't know about it, click here for the original post. Anyway, it's rescheduled for November 1st! All the details regarding registration, course, and awesome prizes are the same. If any of you Urban Runners want to form a team, ask your fellow mates on our Facebook page.

REGISTRATION LINK: ANA_Corporate_Relay_November_1_2008

adidas Urban Run 5K RESULTS - October 13, 2008

6:50PM -little or no wind under a full moon

We had a lower than expected turnout because of Columbus/Indigenous Day holiday despite perfect running conditions tonight. Some people have improved their 5K times so it was a good event.

Chikara 19:01
Randy 21:18
Chris 21:46
Doug 22:59
Philippe 23:07
Suzy 23:33
Jimmy 23:34
Thai 24:51
Steve 24:54
Phyllis 25:07
Johnny 28:13
Sean 29:25
Yumi 29:45

Chicago Marathon and adidas Urban Run 5K

This Sunday is the Chicago Marathon and some of our Urban Runners will be running through 29 neighborhoods in this one great race. You can watch live coverage on NBC Universal Sports 6AM PST; check local listings to see which station that's being carried (for the Bay Area, it's Channel 11.3).

Also the adidas Urban Run 5K will be held this Monday, October 13. This is ALWAYS a FREE event!
Here's the course map:
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2085620
Please note the "new" route. This was the original route, but was changed due to Giants games @ AT&T Park.

Pick up bib numbers at adidas Sport Performance Store before 6:30PM and jog to start. Runners and walkers assemble no later at 6:45PM by Ferry Building, where we've always met for previous 5K's, and proceed southeast on The Embarcadero. Runners/walkers will then pass the Willie Mays statue and take a left onto Third Street. The turnaround is on the corner of Terry Francois and 3rd St. after you cross the drawbridge. After the turnaround, run back on the drawbridge and make a right, along the back of the AT&T Park and return to Ferry Building via The Embarcadero for the finish.

Twin Cities Marathon: Unfunny Joke Falls on Runners in Minnehaha

Minnesota is the home of Jesse Ventura, Prince, Walter Mondale, SPAM, the suburban mall, and the thermostat. After an hour layover in Salt Lake City, I arrived in St. Paul on Friday afternoon and took a local city bus from the airport to my hotel. En route, a suspicious looking troublemaker got on and proceeded to move to the back of the bus. I averted eye contact as he sat next to a woman. To my surprise, they had an intellectual conversation on Dean Koontz novels. Why am I telling you this? I realized that you shouldn't make preexisting judgments about other people and that it's safe here. Wasn't the motto here during the Republican National Convention, Minnesota: Nice? I wouldn't go that far since some people here look at you (the tourist) oddly with restrained, yet critical curiosity.


My hotel was situated between the magnificent St. Paul Cathedral and the Capitol building. Church and state, both a block away from the hotel in opposite directions, is divided merely by the local freeway. Every day and night I can see the cathedral from my hotel room in its glorious splendor. I don't normally stay at hotels for races as they can be costly. I would rather prefer a hostel or motel that provides a clean bed and cheaper prices. Fortunately, the hotel was less than a block away from the marathon finish.
The marathon expo was moderately huge but not too overwhelming. There were tons of freebies, which for the most part were my lunch for the day.

There were some highlights too since Kristin Armstrong and Alberto Salazar were guest speakers. Armstrong used running as an outlet for giving time out for herself. Being selfish can be a good time when you’re constantly sacrificing your goals for your family and career. She was in a lull during 2003 when things weren’t going well for her. Now she’s at peace with herself and with running new challenges including an ultra this December.

Alberto Salazar, on the other hand. doesn't make too many trips far from home since his heart attack scare last year. But he was committed to title sponsor, Medtronic, for the defibrillator that ultimately saved his life. Watching him speak was certainly a highlight of the weekend. Having almost died from sudden cardiac arrest and many failed resuscitations, he is proud to be alive and running. He said that 95% of people suffering heart attacks don’t make it. He also talked about the potential Kara Goucher has for the upcoming New York City Marathon since she has more of a long distance body than a sprinter’s build. He also admonished any belief that anyone would go under 2 hours in the marathon during our lifetimes. Salazar also compared the difference between American and African long distance runner. He theorized that American runners can definitely add in more miles to make up the years of running they didn’t run as a child but risk injury. However, if we were to compare American runners and African runners in term of running miles by the sixth grade, Salazar theorized that Americans would be 30,000 miles short. Years of running as a way to get from point A to point B has been conditioned at an early age; the thought of running to earn money just made it that much more appealing. Running has naturally become a sight of wonder that others want to mimic, the efficiency of African runners’ stride and biomechanics. After Salazar’s heart condition, he’s just proud to be running or jogging without noting miles or splits. Speaking of which, Alberto Salazar ran the Twin Cities 10 Mile in roughly 68 minutes, just under 7 minute pace!

The many vendors at the expo catered to local participants because 70% of the participants are from the MN area.

On Saturday morning, I had an easy 70 minute run with Oliver, who came over the previous night bored with Chicago, through downtown St. Paul and over the Mississippi River to Harriets Island and through the residential area along Selby and Summit Road, which is part of the last few miles of the Twin Cities Marathon. We happened to come across the Twin Cities 5K and ran concurrently alongside the runners on the wide sidewalk. After a low-key day at the Mall of America in Minneapolis and the official marathon Bucca di Beppo pasta feed that evening, I had to sleep early that night.
The next morning, I woke up at 4:15am and met some runners I was going to pace for a 3:30 marathon finish. We took a school bus to the start at the Metrodome in Minneapolis. We took shelter indoors and sat in the corridor. The outlook wasn't good. Ominous dark clouds loomed in the direction of the race and all the runners feared the inevitable--torrential downpour and thunderstorms. I only had minutes to spare to get a good position from the back of the field to Corral One. But we made it and we were off on time. I have to admit that I don't remember too much of the first few miles since I was more concerned with tripping and staying on pace. But there was that other famous cathedral in Minneapolis that stood out. I get stupidly cocky and decide on catching up to the 3:20 pace group. I don't make a huge effort but slowly reel them in at mile 3. Thunder and rain begin to throw buckets at the runners as we turn into the Minnehaha area as we cruise between miles 2-17. No joke as the visibility in Minnehaha is diminished with the amount of rain that's coming down. It gets dangerous as runners try to dodge puddles in the narrow road. It's become a futile effort that runners begin to run through puddles during the later miles. The race course winds around greenbelt parks surrounding the many lakes in Twin Cities. Definitely, much reminded me of Central Park in NYC with the lush green and orange foliage along the roadside, judging from the low visibility under my visor. The rain took a toll on me as my body was probably going to seize up around mile 18 so I slowed down...and later I had walked a bit from there on out to the finish. Mile 19 was the most significant rise as you begin to cross the Mississippi River, but it's short. It was also an eventful mile with a guy dressed up as the Devil and a woman as a nun holding a sign written “The End is Near”. Mile 25 had a music tunnel sponsored by Target and that was interesting. I haven't done any long runs over 18 miles since my injury in August so I am very pleased with my 3:35 finish. After all, I only expected a long run. Truly, one of the best highlights was the huge downhill finish after mile 26 to the finish at the state capitol and the huge crowds from start to finish. This marathon ranks high on my list. Oh yeah, there was free pizza for all as post-race food! I went back to the hotel to watch the runners run down from mile 26, where two fire engines hanged an oversized American flag midair above the runners, to the finishing chutes.

A few facts: there are more than +380 churches along/near the course, although one wouldn't know that fact while running. 1982 was the fastest year with 14% of the field going under 3 hours. Women constitute 45% of the field and the marathon plays host to the USATF Masters Championship. Also, it is one of the few races that BANS HEADPHONES ENTIRELY! They will actually look at race photos to disqualify you. I think it's pretty fair.

Visiting another state in the union has broadened my understanding of its inhabitants, values, and beliefs. My perception of St. Paul (and perhaps even Minneapolis) is that it is socially conservative but is open in supporting Barrack Obama. On the very liberal side, Al Franken is in a close three-man race for the Senate seat in Minnesota. But there are a good number of McCain supporters too and you begin to realize why that’s the case. With so many churches in the Twin Cities area, one can understand that gay marriage ranks low on their list while universal health care in an aging population may be on the higher end of the spectrum. It’s not to say that their values are right or wrong, it’s just different from a Californian standpoint. Even staying a couple of days, you sense the stark contrast that resonate with and are relevant to Minnesotans and Californians. Despite how different Minnesota is to California in terms of income disparity and percentage of minorities and state economy, much reminds me of Sacramento, CA. And for that reason, I forget that I had ever left home at all. Twin Cities Marathon reminds me of California International Marathon, and I’m really looking forward in doing that one in December.

While minorities only constitute a much lower percentage compared to the Bay Area, people are respectful of other cultures even though they may not understand them.

Starting with the Vietnam War, the Hmong, a small tribal ethnic enclave in Southeast Asia, was resettled in the Twin Cities area as refugees. They had no written language and coming over to assimilate into a distant country proved to be the most difficult.

A plan that initially began as a crusade to run quality marathons on the basis of either fast or scenic courses in 50 states has become a mission in understanding and tolerance of people, culture, and beliefs in the United States.

adidas Urban Run SF - October 6, 2008

* Below are two routes that will hopefully please most of you. Both routes feature hills, but they aren't stupid steep. If you are uncomfortable with the longer distance, then don't go ahead and do the 10K! Run the distance within reason! As the sun will set before 7PM, wear lights and reflective clothing so that you can be seen in the dark. I hope to run on Monday if I can get back from Twin Cities in time.

-Adrian


ROUTE – (Option 1) Post-Lyon-Green 10K

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Left on Market St.
-Right on Mason St.
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Lyon St. --> Down Lyon Street Stairs! YAY!
-Right on Green St.
-Right on Mason St
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Powell St.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2305896

(Shorter Route) Post-Sacramento 3.5 Mile

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Left on Market St.
-Right on Mason St.
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Laguna St.
-Right on Sacramento St.
-Right on Mason St
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Powell St.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2305935

Please view Google Streets Map View BEFORE run.

BTW, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 8 Festival is this wknd, October 3-5!!! FREE admission with notable musicians such as Robert Plant and Allison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, and Elvis Costello. MC Hammer will be there too; so you definitely cannot miss this!
http://www.strictlybluegrass.com/

adidas Urban Run SF - September 29, 2008 - RAFFLE NIGHT

Photo from Washington Post

Haile does it again! Haile Gebrselassie breaks his own marathon record at the Berlin Marathon with a time of 2:03:59. That's an average pace of 4:44 per mile! I can't even do that for one mile! History was also made in the women's event with Irena Mikitenko finishing the marathon in 2:19:19. She's now the fourth fastest female marathoner ever, breaking the German record and the first German woman to run under 2:20! You can read the story here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/28/AR2008092800360.html?hpid=moreheadlines . The previous marathon record breaking time was one year ago at the Berlin Marathon by Haile in 2:04:26. (Last year's feature: http://adidassfurbanrun.blogspot.com/2007/09/gebrselassie-sets-marathon-world-record.html)You can watch the entire coverage on NBC Universal Sports, Channel 11.3, in the Bay Area Sunday @ 9PM PST. It's also available online on-demand at www.universalsports.com .

In other news, I got word from running buddy Emily B. about the postponement of the Miles for Migraine 5K/10K:

We had to change the date of Miles for Migraine due to some of the challenges in starting a new non-profit. The new date is Dec 7 (Which is the same date as CIM--sorry about that)-- that part was out of my control. BUT-- if you're not up for a marathon, but a 5K or 10K is more your style that day, please come join the race or volunteer.


I have been working hard to organize a new 5K and 10K run or 2 mile walk to raise awareness and funds for migraine research on Sunday Dec. 7. http://www.milesformigraine.org/

If you know anyone who suffers from migraine, you know that it is not just a little headache. It can be a debilitating disorder that interferes with every aspect of life. We need to conduct research to understand the root of the problem to discover mediations that will be effective. However, very little government money is allocated to headache research. There are not many organizations that provide funds for basic migraine research even though it is the most common neurological disorder for pre-menopausal women. We also want to provide a healthy and fun event where we could provide helpful information about migraine and the resources available in the area.

It is going to be a flat and fast course in Golden Gate Park and could possibly provide you with a new personal best for the 5K or 10K. Please sign up for the race today!! Or if it doesn't fit with your training schedule, you can volunteer to help out with the event.

This is the first year for the Miles for Migraine event, but we're hoping that it can grow into something that makes a difference. Our challenge this year will be to get enough people to the event to make it a success and to show our sponsors that this can grow into something bigger. Imagine if we could start something for migraine research like the "Susan G. Komen race for the cure" that raises millions of dollars for breast cancer research annually!

http://www.milesformigraine.org/


Also-- the top 5 male and female finishers for both the 10K and the 5K will receive N*** dry fit T-shirts!

Please help me spread the word by inviting your friends, family and others to join us.

And FINALLY, the route for Monday!! The shoe raffle will also be held following the run. It'll be a flat, fast course tomorrow:

Sansome-Kearny 4 Mile

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Market St.
-Left on Sansome St.
-Left on Lombard St.
-Right on Montgomery St.
-Left on Francisco St.
-Right on Kearny St
-Right on The Embarcadero
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2298683

California Academy of Sciences - OPENING DAY

The Academy of Sciences will have their opening day this Saturday with FREE admission from 9:30AM-9:00PM. Festivities begin at 8:30am with an opening ceremony and live bands.

http://www.calacademy.org/events/openingweekend/

Not to leave running out of the equation...

This run starts/finishes close to the Academy of Sciences:

Saturday @ 8:15 a.m. 6 mile training run (a mix of cushy trails and pavement: meet at Kennedy Drive & Transverse water fountain in Golden Gate Park. Run down Kennedy Drive to the Dutch Windmill, along the Great Highway past the Cliff House, through Lands End where we take in the views of the ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge before heading back to Golden Gate Park. This run has stops so don’t worry about the distance. For more information contact dse.pekingduck@juno.com

Map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2285976 Trust me, it's really 6 miles from start to finish!

* This is a VERY SCENIC run that is perfect for slower runners and great for walkers! Let them know that I recommended this fun run!

-Adrian

adidas Urban Run SF - September 22, 2008

ROUTE – Fillmore-Stockton 6 Mile

• Start at the adidas Sport Performance store
• Left on Market Street
• Right on Mason
• Left on Post
• Right on Fillmore
• Left on Union
• Right on Pierce
• Right on Chestnut
• Right on Fillmore
• Left on Union
• Right on Columbus
• Right on Stockton
• Right on Market
• Finish at the adidas Sport Performance store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2272730

Please view Google Streets Map View BEFORE run.

*I will pass out these turn-by-turn directions on Monday. It's a scenic route so don't get lost...get a route guide from us.

ANA Corporate Ekiden Relay 2008

Hey Everyone,

I thought it would be cool if you and your fellow Urbanite Runners would like to participate in a fast XC relay race. They have awesome raffle drawings such as a free roundtrip tickets from SFO-Tokyo.

Saturday, October 11, 2008, 09:00 AM

Golden Gate Park

30th Ave & Kennedy Drive, Lindley Meadow, a quarter of a mile East of Spreckles Lake

San Francisco, CA 94117

Brief Description: Relay race for teams of four runners in a corporate team, in men's, women's and co-ed divisions. Each runner runs with a sash and passes it to the next relay runner within exchange zone. Each Runner runs a two mile cross country loop in Golden Gate Park. Participant companies should have a significant business relationship in Japan or Far East Asia. Over $20,000 in random and other prizes!

Additional Information: Fabulous prizes for companies who travel or plan to travel regularly to Japan and Far East Asia. Companies that entered teams in the JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge who meet the above general criteria are particularly invited to enter. Also invited are teams from Bay Area MBA programs, their graduate students, faculty and staffs, but they may only enter one co-ed team per institution.

Fabulous prizes:

Random team prizes: Economy round trip tickets from SF to Tokyo are drawn from amongst each team category: Male, Female, Co-ed (6 total tickets, 2 each division). Teams decide on their own who in the team gets the tickets. Random? longest time at company? fastest leg?--you decide, probably good to figure out method before race...

Random individual prize: Two economy round trip tickets on ANA from SF to Tokyo to one participant and companion who put their business card in the proverbial "fish bowl" for random drawing. Value of tickets are approximately worth $2,500 each, so total random ticket prizes, team and individual, total approximately $20,000! Tickets are subject to restrictions. A member of a winning team may transfer their ticket to the spouse/family member of one of their immediate team members.

Secondary prizes for Team Categories, fastest teams: Fastest team in each category gets a $100 American Express Certificate and reservations for two at a Hilton Hotel in SF for one night. Team decides on their own how to distribute the prizes.

The race is on Golden Gate Park's well known 2-mile cross country loop near the Polo Fields, which is composed of scenic dirt trails and grassy meadows. This course is used annually by the popular Golden Gate Park Open and Pacific Association of USA Track & Field's Cross Country Championships (held Nov 23rd).

To see a course map, go to: http://www.usatf.org/routes/view.asp?rID=71143 .

Questions? Contact Tim Wason, President, SF Running & Walking at 415-647-2276/tim@sfrunning.com. Benefits Girls on the Run, and other charities to be decided. Start building your corporate team now!
Fees:$100 per team of 4 runners from one company
Online Registration Closes:10/07/08 11:59 PM
Website:http://www.sfrunning.com/

Registration: ANA_Corporate_Relay_2008

Summer's Over...Get Over It Already!

In a span of one week, it's as if summer has faded into the history books and the cold air from the Arctic just arrived. Days are shorter and nights are longer and darker. Fragile runners have
left the roads and are training on the treadmill. Does running outside just suddenly suck?

Fear not! We have some solutions to those problems. Urban Run SF will still be here as usual for most Mondays at 6:30PM. Also, the adidas fall/winter shoe and apparel has arrived. Check it out on http://www.adidas.com/campaigns/verticalsrunning/content/fw08/index.asp?strCountry_adidascom=us to see the latest offerings and selections. Get those knickers, wind jackets, long sleeve shirts, and tights.

If you're like me and you need to get that run in before work, wear a headlamp and reflective clothing. If you need some pointers for cold weather and night running, ask away! Stay warm and always stay safe out there!

-Adrian

adidas Urban Run SF - September 15, 2008

ROUTE – Broadway-Stockton Tunnel run (4.9 miles)

• Start at the adidas Sport Performance store
• Left on Market Street
• Right on Mason
• Left on Post
• Right on Steiner
• Right on Broadway (and through tunnel)
• Right on Stockton Street
• Right on Market Street
• Finish at the adidas Sport Performance store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2264020

Please view Google Streets Map View BEFORE run.

September - Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K RESULTS

September 8
6:47PM

Chikara 18:34
Jason 20:23
Felix 21:57
Chris 22:14
Marco 23:44
Richard 24:02
Jimmy 24:42
Philippe 24:44
Katy 24:50
Sean Lee 25:38
Steve 26:29
Chi 27:16
PC 28:33
Huey 32:16
Raymond 33:56
Mercedes 34:04

Times are impressive given that tourists are still milling along The Embarcadero. Weaving in and out of pedestrian traffic allows you to prepare for races with oversized fields of slower runners/walkers in front of you.

Thanks, Sean, for assisting in the timing, and get well soon! If I had made a mistake tabulating the results or if I have gotten your name wrong, let me know.

Schedule of Events

I hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend and put in some fantastic running with the beautfiul weather we're having! I'd like to remind everyone about the Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K that will be held this Monday. Please, please sign in with Warren so that he can record your name and bib number at the adidas Sport Performance Store before we begin our race.

In other news, I'd like to give briefly a shoutout and shameless plug that my racing team, Pamakid Runners Club, will be hosting for its inaugural Speaker Series!
When? Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2008 at 6:30 p.m.
Where? Sports Basement, 1590 Bryant Street (@ 15th Street), San Francisco, CA 94103
"An Olympic Experience, Beijing 2008: A Coach's Perspective"
Andy Chan, Pamakid Runners Club Board President, Head Coach track & field and cross-country at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory, went to Beijing to see his former student-athlete, 1,500m Olympian runner, Shannon Rowbury, compete against the World's best. Coach Chan will share some behind the scene stories about Shannon's high school career and her Olympic journey of 2008.

We all suffer from headaches at some point, some more severe than others. My friend is hosting the Miles for Migraine 5K/10K and 2 Mile walk on October 5, 2008. Miles for Migraine is a new non-profit organization established to raise funds for migraine research and education. While migraine affects up to 15% of all women, and is the most common neurological disorder for pre-menopausal women, migraine research receives little funding from NIH and other government agencies. This organization started early in 2008 to provide another way to raise funds for migraine research while providing a healthy, fun activity for those who want to support the cause. If you cannot participate in person, please consider donating to the cause in the link provided. 5K and 10K race courses through Golden Gate Park are FAST! The 2 mile walk will be beautiful. Please join us for the event by participating or volunteering.
http://milesformigraine.org/index.html

Update your calendar:

- September 8: Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K (details in previous post below)
- September 24: Speaker Series at Sports Basement (Bryant location) with Andy Chan and Shannon Rowbury
- October 5: Miles for Migrane 5K/10K, 2 Mile Walk

-Adrian

adidas Urban Run SF - September 1 LABOR DAY

*** Please note that Urban Run is canceled on September 1st in observance of Labor Day! You have the right to organize your own group run starting/finishing from the store if you wish.***


September 8 is The Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K. This is a reoccurring low-key race that will be held on 2nd Monday of each month.

-Go to the adidas Sport Performance Store to sign in and pick up bib numbers/safety pins from Warren.
-Change and store clothes/bags in fitting room.
-Jog/warmup to start from adidas Store to Ferry Building @ 6:30PM
-Meet me at Ferry Building to check in for 5K.
-Start 5K at ~6:45PM!!
-Oh, and don't forget to wear your Urban Run shirt if you have one! We will distribute shirts to those who have met their quota.

FUTZ, there's a Giants game at the same time so we will be doing the same course as last month. This will be the 5K course: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2103287. This 5K race route will ONLY be used when AT&T Park is having an event. It is an out-and-back course with the start/finish at the Ferry Building and the turnaround at the corner of Taylor St/Jefferson St.

**I will time all participants. This is a FREE event!

-Adrian

Jess in Korea

Last week, Jessica took off for Bucheon, Korea where she will be teaching students in elementary school for a year. She wanted me to let everyone know about her blog, http://jessicajanehu.blogspot.com/ , so you can see what she's up to. She misses all of you so make her feel really guilty and give her a bad time! :)


Best of luck in Korea, Jessica!

adidas Urban Run SF - August 25, 2008 SHOE RAFFLE MONDAY!!!

Route - Sansome-Drumm 3 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Market St.
-Left on Sansome St.
-Right on Union St.
-Right on Front St.
-Left on Jackson St.
-Right on Drumm St.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2187319

View Google Maps Street View BEFORE run!

* After careful consideration, I have decided that the Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K will be on the 2nd Monday of each month. It won't disrupt our usual Monday evening runs, but you must be ready to depart from the store at 6:30PM. Sign in and pick up your bib number from Warren. This event is timed and always free! I will post the course and remind everyone a week before the race.

**4:26PM - BTW, I just got an email from our West Coast regional director that Urban Run will be cancelled on Labor Day, September 1st! Please make a note of this. You may organize your own group run starting/finishing from the store if you wish. This is another good reason that the adidas Urban Run 5K is on the second Monday!

adidas Urban Run SF - August 18, 2008

Route - Lombard-Grant Ave 3.77 miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Mason
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Larkin St.
-Right on Lombard St.
-Right on Columbus
-Right on Grant Ave.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Performance Store.


Follow link to course map:
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2179701

Check out the Beijing '08 Olympics photo gallery from The Age in Australia (NOTE: SPOILER ALERT for Women's Marathon!):

http://www.theage.com.au/multimedia/beijing08/womens-marathon/gallery.html

Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K PHOTOS

As promised, photos of the adidas Urban Run 5K are up! This is vital proof that adidas Urban Run San Francisco exists and is real. You can view the complete set on our Facebook page. Special thanks to Warren Chang for taking the photos.

adidas Urban Run SF - August 11, 2008

California-Jackson ~ 3.8 miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Right on Market Street
-Left on Drumm
-Left on California St.
-Right on Larkin St.
-Right on Jackson St.
-Right on Grant Ave.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2151040

View Google Maps Street View BEFORE run!

Skyline 50K Race Report

Having no expectations can really lift a burden off of one's shoulders. Even though the Skyline 50K would be a "training run", it's been a while since I actually tapered and prepared for something I cared about. The Memorial Day 10K taught me to not take anything for granted. Over the past month or so, my mileage has dipped below expectations but I have also put in more quality tempo runs and core workouts. I have mentioned in previous posts that the long training runs have eluded me. The Skyline 50K would be a test on my endurance.
On the morning of the race day, I prepared two bagels with Nutella and did a little bit of some core exercises to loosen up at 4AM. I had two days off from running so I was fully rested and ambitious for Skyline. My primary goal was to just run even effort/even pace and not fixate myself on finishing time.
Arriving in Castro Valley, I met up with my teammates who almost missed the start; we needed three team members to complete a team for points. But they made it and we were ready to race in the gentle fog. Ed wanted to do it in sub-5 hours, and after thinking about how realistic it could also be for me, I convinced myself that it I would tag along. If we could manage a 10K in an hour, it was possible. After 2 hours and 14 miles in, we were well ahead of schedule! The midpoint of the race was really awesome (as is 80% of the race). I felt great at one point that I even skipped an aid station because I still had electrolytes and GU on hand. Between mile 15-17, you dip to probably the biggest net elevation drop in the entire course (or what felt like it) and into what seemed like the middle of the forest. Obviously, if you go that far down, you must go back up the steep way. But I was glad that this was a portion that I was forced to walk as I engaged myself in its endless beauty of silence amongst the trees. I think what was also impressive and a little bewildering was that throughout the first 25 miles, I pretty much ran the whole race alone with Ed! I hadn't seen any other runners for miles! Were we that far ahead or that far behind the "real ultrarunners?"
After 17 miles, the competitive nature of Ed took off as he saw a guy in the far distance he wanted to pass. I decided that I didn't want to jeoparadize my race by going too hard that soon. So I hung back and ran by myself for the next 8-10 miles; it's definitely harder to push yourself when there's no one close in front or behind.
It was a great day representing the Pamakid Runners team. As Ed and I arrived at each of the aid stations in the first half of the race, the following were remarks by volunteers, "Boy, I haven't seen that jersey in decades/years! I thought that team was gone!" "The coach for that team has a runner in the Olympics, I hear." Then they would reminisce on races that Pamakids had done in the 80s but are now defunct. A few have even asked me during the race on how they could become a member; I gave them the website address as I quickly left the aid station...I still had a race to finish!
Problem occurred around mile 21. My body wanted to keep running; my legs, arms, mind, lungs all felt great. Unfortunately, the bottom of my right foot was having a stabbing pain--the possible beginning of plantar fascilitis. It had to be the shoes. Even though my trail running shoes had a little over 200 miles, the shoes probably weren't the best fit for me. It was disappointing since I walked a lot in the last 4-5 miles. I was still on track for a sub-5 hour finish....but barely, just barely. Then the demoralizing began to kick in. After the last downhill section on the trail, you run around half of the lake that is 2 miles on a bike path. Oh the pain seared and I had to walk and hobble most of the way.
Nevertheless, I am still happy to come in at ~5:12 in 28th place. I'm definitely sure I could've done a sub 5 or even better if it weren't for that dreaded foot pain, but I'm not disappointed with getting 2nd place in my age group and the cool polyester embroidered vest that mentions it. Not losing focus, I'm building on this fitness and continuing with the Twin Cities training. At least something seems to be going in the right direction. I will post pictures soon.

**BTW, if you have a race report on a recent event such as the SF Marathon and you'd like to share your experience, send them to adidassfurbanrun@hotmail.com and I will post it!

-Adrian

1st Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K RESULTS

August 4
6:45PM start
Temperature: 54 degrees

Sean 20:02
Felix 21:13
James 22:31
Alex 22:41
Oliver 24:18
Jimmy 24:46
Katy 24:48
Brett 26:07
Jessica 27:23
Matt 28:56
Sean 29:15
Raymond 29:39
? Runner 30:07
Rumesha 30:35
Trisha 31:10
? Runner 32:32
*Steve 30:27
*Sean 25:22

* Times adjusted for late start.
Next month, I will have bib numbers so it'll be easier to track runners. We had 33 runners with 15 who self-timed. Also bear in mind that with the amount of foot traffic, reckless tourists, and headwind, take the results with a grain of salt. I will post pictures/video when they become available.

BTW, which one of you Urban Runners have been robbing banks? :)http://dailyviews.runnersworld.com/2008/08/that-robber-jus.html

The Race of Truth: adidas Urban Run 5K

This Monday will be the first adidas Urban Run 5K. If successful, I plan on having this event on the first Monday of every month.

Please follow the procedure for the 5K:

-Go to the adidas Sport Performance Store to sign in with Warren.
-Change and store clothes/bags in fitting room.
-Jog/warmup to start from adidas Store to Ferry Building @ 6:30PM
-Meet me at Ferry Building to check in for the 5K.
-Start 5K at 6:45PM!!

Since there's a Giants game on August 4th, this will be the 5K course: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2103287 . This 5K race route will ONLY be used when AT&T Park is having an event. It is an out-and-back course with the start/finish at the Ferry Building and the turnaround at the corner of Taylor St/Jefferson St. (It is also helpful to view Google Maps -Street View.)

*Note-You may also choose to do a 10K, but you must self-time and return to store on your own. But let me know before you start. 10K route: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2078807

**I will time and record all participants with my stopwatch. I may forget your time so please remember your time if you can. After 7:30PM, I will head back to store; 5K runners still on course must run/walk to store after time cutoff. ALL runners/walkers cooldown/jog slowly to adidas Sport Performance Store for food/refreshments after event.

The distance on the course map may seem a little long, but if you take the tangents and cut the course, the distance will be more precise.

If you have any questions or concerns, please email me at adidassfurbanrun@hotmail.com

adidas Urban Run SF - July 28, 2008

Course - Telegraph Hill/Grant Ave ~3.63 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Market St.
-Left on Battery St.
-Left on Filbert St.
-Continue up stairs to Telegraph Hill
-Go to top, around traffic circle, and down Telegraph Hill/Lombard Street
-Left on Grant Ave
-Right on Union St.
-Left on Columbus
-Right on Grant Ave.
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2103237

* Remember that it's RAFFLE MONDAY!!
** adidas Urban Run 5K will be on Aug 4th. The course map will be posted next week with instructions, race timing, and logistics.

adidas Urban Run SF - July 21, 2008

Course - Tale of Two Tunnels (Broadway and Stockton) ~ 4.4 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Powell St
-Left on Post St.
-Right on Webster St.
-Right on Broadway --> Broadway Tunnel
-Right on Stockton --> Stockton Tunnel
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2099184

* Just a reminder that the adidas Urban Run 5K/10K will be held on August 4th!

Innovation of Olympic Proportion

Take Adidas, for example: With just two years until the opening ceremonies in China, the German giant was struggling to conjure a new track spike for its star Texan runner, the 400-meter gold medalist Jeremy Wariner. After watching hours of super-slow-motion footage of Wariner's quirky gait, the company decided to replace his Pookie spike, which helped Wariner win in Athens (and nearly every 400-meter race he has entered since). Called Lone Star and sporting a crown insignia to signify Wariner's leadership in the sport, the new shoe has the following unorthodox feature: It lists to port.
"Most middle-distance races are won in the turns," explains Mic Lussier, the French-Canadian leader of the Adidas Innovation Team, or aIT, which developed the shoe. And track runners never, ever turn to the right. So Lussier's 50 biomechanical engineers, industrial designers and electromechanical experts set about making asymmetrical spikes for Wariner. The skewed shoes would be founded on ultralight carbon plates made of microscopic nanotubes 20 times stronger than steel. And they would "redirect the line of force that loads on the outside of his right foot," Lussier says, "and send it inward, toward his big toe." In other words, Wariner's new right shoe would accelerate to the left.
"The idea is based on the same asymmetrical suspension you see in a Nascar stock car," Lussier says. "It's really quite amazing."

You can read the whole article here: http://tech.msn.com/news/article.aspx?cp-documentid=8203203&page=2

adidas Urban Run SF - Bastille Day

Okay, so we don't have a French themed route for Monday. But we do go around a dog park, does that count?

Duboce Park 5 Mile

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Powell St.
-Left on Post St.
-Left on Scott St.
-Left on Waller St.
-Right on Carmelita St
-Through Duboce Park
-Left onto Duboce Ave
-Continue on Duboce via bike path (Do not run into streetcar tunnel!) :)
-Left onto Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2069072

Duboce Park: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duboce_Park

Next week's run: The Wiggle

adidas Urban Run SF - July 7, 2008

ROUTE - AT&T Park (4.8 miles)
-Start at the adidas Sport Performance store
-Right on Market Street
-Right on The Embarcadero (later King Street)
-Turn around at the corner of King and 3rd Street (Willie Mays statue at the AT&T Park)
-Left on Market Street
-Finish at the adidas Sport Performance store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1141173

Congratulations to Henry Ho for winning a pair of adidas Supernova Control in the June raffle!

*Does anyone have a Bastille Day themed route for next Monday?

Euro 2008

What does football (soccer) have anything to do with running or Urban Run? Nothing really, other than players running around a grass field for 90 minutes. But adidas is king when it comes to European football. This Sunday is the Euro Championship Final between Germany and Spain, both teams wearing adidas jerseys, shorts, and footwear.

Watch all the action live FREE on Sunday at 11:30am at the Goethe Institut of San Francisco. Get there early before doors open, preferably an hour before game time because you can DEFINITELY expect a HUGE turnout! Plan ahead because the Gay and Lesbian Parade will delay travel time; take public transportation (or run!) if you can. If you don't have a favorite team, wear your UR shirt to the game! Follow the link below for more information:

http://www.goethe.de/ins/us/saf/ver/en3243351v.htm

More about Euro 2008: http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/

It's going to be a thrilling end to the three weeks and 16 teams of great football! After the game, we'll probably get dim sum in Chinatown!

adidas Urban Run SF - June 30, 2008

View Google Maps Street View BEFORE run!

Medium Route (5.8 miles) Embarcadero/Van Ness Ave.

Sean made this one go all the way down Van Ness in order to avoid having to dodge tourists in Union Square, and also to avoid going through the Tenderloin. (AW, he cares!)

-Leave adidas Sports Performance Store, right on Market.
-Left on Battery
-Left on Embarcadero
-Left on North Point
-Left on Van Ness
-Left on Market
-Finish at adidas Sports Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2024408
* Thanks, Sean, for picking the route!

RESULTS
Congrats to all who raced on Saturday; it was a hot day for soft San Franciscans! The start at Stadium to Stadium 10K was 80 degrees, making only 930 participants finish out of 1600!

STADIUM TO STADIUM 10K
Sean Larson 41:45 (PR!)
Anders Ryerson 44:42
Lee Sher 44:48
Adrian Jue 49:29
Mary Ho 56:29
Wayne Plymale 57:21
Helen Ho 59:22

SHRINERS 8K
Jorge Rivera 34:13

DOUBLE DIPSEA 13.7 Miles
Coming Soon!

Great job EVERYONE! Let me know if I left anyone out!

Identification on the Run

As a runner, it is extremely important to carry identification with you. Ever since Ashlyn Dyer died while running through the Presidio just days before her LA Marathon, it got me thinking about all those close calls with cyclists, drivers, and other stupid pedestrians while running in San Francisco. You should always be aware of your surroundings and tell someone where and when you are running. (Although it's your personal choice, I also advise against the use of headphones and iPods yet no one ever listens to me .) But when you encounter a situation that's beyond your control, having identication is the best way other people can rush you to safety. Don't be caught dead without ID! I'm never running on the trails or on the road without one!

Road ID is having a 10% discount through July 27th. Go to www.roadid.com and use coupon code: PCJUL278

Article on Ashlyn Dyer: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2006/03/14/MNGDOHNPOO1.DTL

-Adrian

adidas Urban Run SF - June 23, 2008

ROUTE- Powell-Bay ~ 3.87 Miles

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store
-Powell Street
-Right on Bay St.
-The Embarcadero
-Right on Market St.
-Finish at adidas Sports Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2006648

* Thanks, Sean, for picking the route!

RESULTS

CONSERVATORY 5K
Grant Johnson 17:12 (3rd place)
Jorge Rivera 20:13
Tiffany Davis 20:19 (1st woman)
Joel Rizzo 21:48

adidas Urban Run SF - June 16, 2008

Introducing our route this Monday is Steve Chan's son, our future adidas Urban Run star. Steve's been running with us during his busy schedule and we're proud that good parenting begins with adidas when they're young. :)

Okay, we have two routes this Monday going around Dolores Park. I will be out this Monday because of a meeting. Use your best judgment! If you're not ready to do 8 miles, don't do your first one on Monday! Running start for 8 mile run is 6:15-6:20PM or whenever Warren wants to start it. Running start for 5 mile run is at 6:30PM.

-Adrian

Long route ~7.8 miles (Mostly flat, few hills)

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store

-Left on Market St.

-Left on Dolores St.

-Right on Clipper St.

-Right on Portola St. --> Market St.

-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1986067

Short route ~ 5.2 miles (Mostly flat)

-Start at adidas Sport Performance Store

-Left on Market St.

-Left on Dolores St.

-Right on 20th St.

-Right onto footpath (Do not cross streetcar tracks!)

-Left onto 18th St.

-Right on Castro

-Right on Market Street

-Finish at adidas Sport Performance Store

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1986088

Tips for Commuting on the Run

Below is an article from the New York Road Runners Club www.nyrr.org

Running can be a means of transportation—a simple, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and often efficient way to journey from point A to point B. Commuting to and/or from work (or wherever you travel regularly) can presents challenge, but they may be easier to meet than you think—and the rewards are many.

The Benefits* It’s efficient: You get in your training while doing something you’d have to do anyway.* It’s motivation: The “I can’t get out the door” excuse disappears when you’ve got a destination and a timetable.* You save money: Fewer swipes of your MetroCard or trips to the gas pump can generate significant savings over time.* It’s green: Your running-shoe footprints will definitely reduce your carbon footprint! * It’s pleasant: Wouldn’t you rather be on the run than sweltering on the IRT or waiting for the cross-town bus? The BarriersYou may have thought about running to work but felt it just wasn’t feasible or practical for you. Common concerns include:* The commute is too far to run comfortably (or at all).* Traffic, crowding, or other risks make running potentially dangerous.* There’s nowhere to shower and change when you get to work.* You have too much to carry.* You’ll tarnish your professional image.

Making it Work for You - Tackling the distance: If your home and office are separated by an intimidating number of miles, think about ways to run a portion of the distance: You can step off the bus or subway early and run the rest of the way, or run to and from a commuter park-and-ride, or commute on foot every other day. As you did when you started running, ease into your commute-runs gradually, giving yourself time to experiment and adjust your schedule and routes.

Staying safe: You may have to stay more alert than on a non-commuting run in the park. If there’s car or bike traffic near you, wearing reflective clothing is a good idea, even if you’re not running in the dark. And if you’re unsure about a neighborhood along your route, explore it first by car or with a companion. Other safety issues are familiar from non-commuting runs: turning cars, dogs off their leashes (or on long, near-invisible wire leashes), and ankle-threatening potholes.

Post-run hygeine: Many businesses provide showers or even in-house gyms for employees. If your workplace isn’t this accommodating, you can join a nearby gym and shower and dress there. Another option that’s not as unworkable as you might think is to “shower” in a bathroom by using a sink, soap, and a towel.

Transporting your supplies: A frequent running-commuter practice is to get a week’s worth of clothes to work on Monday, either by public transportation (or car) or by running with a full backpack that morning, and then take them home on Friday. This can leave you free to run with only a small waist-pack for essentials—keys, money, cards, cell phone, maybe some documents folded in a plastic bag. If you regularly need to carry more back and forth, a backpack designed for runners (smaller than the usual multi-pouch knapsack and close-fitting to avoid bouncing) is a good solution.

Maintaining office decorum: If your workplace is the kind in which a sweaty runner is likely to attract raised eyebrows or worse, there are ways to work within the system. If you work in an elevator building, you may be able to finish your run with a jog or speed-walk up the stairs to your floor, thus sparing elevator riders your post-run aura. If stairs aren’t available, using a service elevator or arriving at “off-peak” elevator hours are other options. In general, commuting runners find that being “that crazy runner who runs to work” is good for corporate image, a source of supportive office banter, and a way to stand out positively. But use good judgment; discussing your situation with a supervisor in advance may be prudent.

Varying your routine: Also, because the run is a prescribed (minimum) distance, you can fall into the rut of running many identical workouts. Variation can be supplied by changing the intensity of the run; you can incorporate a tempo-run segment on one day, add 30-second pickups on another, and even do a full-fledged interval session during your commute. (Using an online course-measuring device such as USATF’s “America’s Running Routes” (www.usatf.org/routes/map/) can give you exact distances.) Keep in mind too that concrete sidewalks are the hardest of all running surfaces; asphalt is far better—if it’s safe.
Runners who commute do it because it’s efficient, economical, and fun. Also, if getting to work each day requires that you do your daily workout as well, you’ll definitely reduce the likelihood of unwanted zeroes piling up in your running log.

Adapted from “Alternative to the MetroCard” by Robert Cox, New York Runner, Summer 2004.