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News

Breaking News - CVRR Award Youth Training Grants

Breaking News - Road Runners Race Trails

Don't be fooled by the name. The Comox Valley Road Runners are also avid trail runners. CVRR has been well represented in a variety of trail races recently as the trail racing season kicks off.

The first major trail race of the season was the Dirty Duo in North Vancouver on March 9th. The Dirty Duo is a multi-sport event, including biking and/or running over a variety of distances. Kiyoko Marton was the lone CVRR member to participate. She raced the 15k trail running event, finishing an excellent 13th place overall. 

This was followed by the Chuckanut 50k, held on March 16th  in Bellingham, Washington. This is a grueling trail race that includes 5000 feet of climbing. The race was billed as one of the most competitive 50k races in North America in 2012. Brad Crowe and Marion Bryan both had exceptional races, with Chuckanut being their first race at the 50k distance. They were accompanied by ultra-racing veteran Shauna Connaughton, who also had a a great race.

Next was the Fletcher's Challenge trail race in Nanaimo on March 29th. The Fletcher's Challenge race is a memorial trail run for Gavin Fletcher of Nanaimo. It includes both a 13km trail race and a 6km family run/walk around Westwood Lake. The Road Runners were lead by Roger Plamondon, followed closely by Patrick Montgomery. Marion Bryan lead the CVRR women, showing her toughness by bouncing back quickly from the 50k race just two weeks earlier. Mary Anne Rolfe, Kiyoko Marton, and Leo Rolfe also completed the very difficult course and turned in some great times.

Next on the racing agenda for many of these trail racers is the Gutbuster Trail Running Series. The first race of the Gutbuster Series takes place in Victoria on May 12th. The series of four races culminates with the Mount Washington race on August 11th.

Breaking News - Merville Clinches Third for CVRR

The Merville 15k took place on Sunday April 7^th. This is the 7^th race of the Frontrunners Island Race Series, and once again it saw a strong showing by the Comox Valley Road Runners. This is always a difficult race as it is an unusual distance and comes immediately after the Half Marathon, leaving the racers with tired legs heading into this event. The Merville 15k is hosted by the River Runners club from Campbell River.

The race was won by Nick Walker in a time of 50:12. Mark Cryderman (Shore Runners / Brooks) of Campbell River posted an excellent result in his first race as a master, winning that category and placing third overall. The women's race was won by Cheryl Davies of Bastion Running Club in Nanaimo with a time of 1:02. The top master's woman was Yanna Debelic, also of Bastion.

There were many excellent performances by members of the Comox Valley Road Runners. Diane Palmason and Vince Brotherston both won their respective age groups. It was also an excellent day for the Plamondons, with Angela Plamondon earning a second place finish in her age group while Roger Plamondon finished in third. Keith Wakelin claimed second place and Ken Richardson also earned a third place finish. The collective effort of the team puts the club into an unassailable 3^rd place for the series.

The final race of the series is the Sooke 10k and takes place on Sunday April 21^st.

Breaking News - Boston Marathon Tragic Incident

Breaking News - Fun Day for 5K

The weather was ideal on Saturday March 23rd for the Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) 5 km Fun Run.  The event is the conclusion of the 10 week annual Learn to Run Clinic put on by the CVRR. There were a record 96 runners for the first event of the Comox Valley Race weekend.  Additional weekend events included a Pasta Dinner held Saturday evening with guest speaker Jim Finlayson and the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon held on Sunday.

Promptly at 9:15 a.m. and following a spirited warm up by Frank Graham, those walking or anticipating more than a 45 minute finish started.  They were followed by the majority of the runners at 9:45.  Following the event refreshments were served and draw prizes awarded.  The first 10 finishers and times are as follows:  

20:19 Mike Bridges

22:09 Barney Feenstra

22:27 Angela Plamondon

22:30 Gabriel Gledhill

22:59 Ethan Glenwright

23:30 Martha Grant 

24:43 Mark Myles

24:59 Jeff Donovan 

25:46 Deanna Donovan 

26:14 Nick Feness

Complete results can be found at www.cvrr.ca.

The following sponsors contributed draw prizes and helped make the event a huge success: Bowyer Massage Clinic, Central Mountain Air, Chew to Live, Comox Valley Airport Commission, Extreme Runners, Interfor - Coastal Woodlands Division, the Italian Navy, Jim Smiley-Ocean Pacific Realty, Safeway, Shoreline Orthodontics, WestJet and Zocalo Cafe.  The grand prize of a return trip from Comox to Vancouver was donated by Pacific Coastal Airlines.

The CVRR 10 week Learn to Run clinic is held annually starting in January.  The clinic is for runners or walkers of all levels and consists of a short talk on running related issues followed by a run.  This year's very successful clinic, organized by Leslie Dargie, consisted of over 100 participants.  The following businesses/individuals spoke at or provided additional support to the clinic:  Extreme Runners, Bayview Chiropractic, Lets Go Personal Training, Elite Athletics, Kathy Rung (CVRR Coach), Sandy Riley, Dr. Wayne Crowe and Diane Palmason.

The Comox Valley Road Runners look forward to seeing you at the next running clinic in January 2014.

Breaking News - Half Marathon a Huge Success

The Comox Valley RV Half Marathon took place Sunday, March 24. This is the sixth race in the Frontrunners Island Race Series and is hosted by the Comox Valley Road Runners. The race was won by series leader Geoff Martinson, whose time of 1:07:01 set a new age group record for the M25-29 category. He was followed closely by Jim Finlayson who set a new masters course record of 1:07:10. Finlayson had hoped to break the Canadian Masters record of 1:06:33, but wind, rain, and cool temperatures made for a difficult day for racing. Given the conditions, his result was exceptional.

“I talked with Jim a few weeks ago about him going after the record. I thought that if I could run 1:06.30 myself I would be quite happy," said Martinson. “I tried to help take some of the lead for Jim on the climb for the first 10km, and hopefully make his record chase a little easier. We worked hard today, even though it wasn't quite enough.”

In the women’s race, Catrin Jones won in 1:19:47, second was Jen Millar in 1:20:03 and third was Melissa Ross in 1:21:46. The top female Master was Meghan Stothers in 1:26:38. Jones was particularly pleased with her performance considering she had just returned the night before from Kenya, where she competed in the Rift Valley Marathon the previous weekend.

“I wasn't sure if I would feel rested for today but decided to drive up for the event anyway, and although it was tough considering how my body felt, I was happy to race the event again,” Jones said. “I only found my rhythm at 15km, so the last 5-6k felt the best. It's not close to my PB but I am pleased with the end result. I have always enjoyed running Comox, so I was pleased to take part in the race and thank everyone who organized the great event.”

There were also many excellent performances by local runners. Neil Holm (Extreme Runners/ Adidas) was the first local to finish, coming in 9th overall and winning his age group as the third master's racer to finish. Vince Brotherston and Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/ Asics) also had excellent races and finished second in their respective categories. Gord Harris also posted a fantastic time and won his age group. The local women were lead by none other than CVRR club coach Kathy Rung. Janet Green also posted a 3rd place age group finish.

Many local racers also met longstanding race goals this year at the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon. Louis Lamb ran a great race and knocked nearly 3 minutes off of his previous best, coming in at 1:26. Danny Keyes (Comox Valley RV) and Chris Winkelaar both completed a major running quest by beating the coveted 1:30 mark for the half marathon. Angelica Lauzon managed to break the 2hr mark, another highly coveted time for many racers. Ron Crowther also had an excellent race, completing his first half marathon in a time of 2:10. Many other excellent results were seen, with too many notable performances to include in this article. For full results visit http://racedaytiming.ca/series?pg=raceresult&race=450

Race Director Wayne Crowe was pleased with the event. “Race day was overcast and had a cool breeze with the odd shower greeting the 512 finishers. In spite of that there were some exceptional times and there was great food and excellent draw prizes to follow the event. The race was preceded on the Saturday evening by the first annual Pasta dinner and an inspirational talk by Jim Finlayson so it was an excellent weekend.”

Breaking News - Annual 5K Fun Run 2013 Results

Annual 5K Fun Run 2013 Results. Clinic participants can download their finisher' certificate too!

Breaking News - Long History for Local Half Marathon

Sunday, March 24^th marks the return of the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon. This year the Half Marathon is a part of the Comox Valley Race Weekend, which also includes the 5km Fun Run and the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon pasta dinner, both on Saturday March 23^rd.

The Comox Valley RV Half Marathon is a scenic, out and back course that starts and finishes at the Florence Filberg Centre on Anderton Avenue in Courtenay. The course winds its way through rural Courtenay along Condensory, Piercy, Dove Creek, and Burns Roads. The race may result in minor traffic delays in this area during the events. To ease congestion, residents in the area and skiers heading to the mountain are encouraged to consider taking alternate routes while the races are taking place. This will help to ensure the safety of both the public and event participants.

The Comox Valley RV Half Marathon has seen many fantastic races over the years, including many star-studded fields with appearances by Canadian Olympians. The earliest form of the race was as a 20k along a similar route to the present race. Records of the event began in 1987 and it continued as a 20k race until 1994. Over this time, several Canadian Records were set for the 20km distance which still stand today. Maurice Tarrant is notable as achieving the M55 and M60 Canadian Records for the 20km distance at this race. Simon Timmer also achieved the M45 Canadian Record for 20km at the Comox Valley Race.

In 1995 the race was updated to the modern Half Marathon distance and the current course was adopted. Soon afterwards, in 1998, Stephanie Andrews set the female course record of 1:16:55, which still stands to this date. The male course record was set by Canadian Olympian Jon Brown in 2005. His time of 1:03:57 was the fastest half marathon in Canada for that year. Maurice Tarrant has continued to have great success at the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon, setting BC Half Marathon records for the M75 and M80 age groups

Continuing on the record setting trend, Jim Finlayson will be racing the Half Marathon this year in hopes of breaking the Canadian Master's Half Marathon record of 1:06:33. He is currently the BC Half Marathon record holder. He is also the current Master's record holder for the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon. Jim Finlayson will also be the keynote speaker at the pasta dinner event on Saturday night.

The Comox Valley RV Half Marathon is one of the cornerstone events of the Frontrunners Island Race Series. It is also part of the TIMEX race series. The race annually draws close to 500 racers, with hundreds of volunteers and supporters also involved. The half marathon is one of the major fund-raising events for the Comox Valley Road Runners, allowing the club to put on events such as the Canada Day 5^th Street Mile, Jingle Bell Run, and the 5k Running Clinic. A part of the proceeds from the event are also donated to two local charities. This year the supported charities are Kidsport and the Friends of Strathcona.

Breaking News - Runners Brave Hatley's Hills

On February 24^th, the Hatley Castle 8k race took place in Victoria. The fourth race of the Frontrunners Island Race Series, Hatley Castle is both one of the most scenic and most difficult races in the series. The race tours the grounds of Royal Roads University, taking advantage of the ocean view, the beautiful Hatley Castle itself, and the forested grounds. The race is also difficult and slow as it includes several significant hills and large sections of trail, both of which result in generally slower times on this course.

Geoff Martinson once again won the race, finishing in a time of 25:23 and narrowly missing the course record. The first CVRR racer was Brad Crowe, finishing in a personal best time of 28:37. He was closely followed by Vince Brotherston, who dropped off his pace due to a fall in the middle of the race. Brotherston finished as the second Master's racer overall. The third local to finish was Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) who had a solid run and finished 2^nd in his age group.

The CVRR women were lead by Laura Wyatt, who had a great race and finished 4^th in her age group. She was followed by mother/daughter duo Linda and Arielle Agar. Next was Kiyoko Marton, who also had a great race.

There were many other outstanding results in the race. Patrick Montgomery of the Comox Valley Road Runners completed one of his major race goals, winning the green jersey for the fastest hundred metre sprint in a time of 12.26 seconds. Les Disher had an excellent race and won his age category with a time of 32:07. Following close behind was Roger Plamondon who finished 3^rd in his category. Jerry Van (Van's Portraits) and Brian Rose also had great races, finishing respectively as 8^th and 10^th in their very competitive age groups.

The Comox Valley Race Weekend is fast approaching. The race weekend kicks off with the 5k Fun Run on Saturday, March 23^rd. The run starts at the Filberg Centre in Courtenay at 9:45 and is a celebration run for the participants of the CVRR 5k Running Clinic. It is also open to the public. Saturday night is the Race Weekend Pasta Dinner with keynote speaker Jim Finlayson. It will also include local musicians Paul Rodgers and Jeff Drummond.

The finale of the Race Weekend is the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, March 24^th. The race starts at 11:00am from the Filberg Centre, with an early start at 10am. For more information on any of these events visit cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Kids Run4Fun Program

Comox Valley Road Runners

Kids Run4Fun Program

8 Monday evening sessions: April 15 to June 10, 2013

6:00 to 7:00 pm

(no session on Victoria Day)

For youth ages 8 to 14 years

Participants of all abilities welcome!

This 8 week clinic includes:

• Running Skills and Training Tips
• Guest Speakers
• Interesting Run Locations
• T-Shirt and Water Bottle
• And Lots of Fun!

$25.00 per participant

For more information or to register, drop-in at Extreme Runners on 5th Street or call Mary Ann @ 250-339-9730

Breaking News - Powell River Marathon Shuffle

The Powell River Trail Runners hosts the annual Marathon Shuffle and this year is the 20th anniversary. It is a great (free) 29Km run on the Sunshine Coast Trail and is always held the last Sunday of April. Please have a look at either the Powell River Parks and Wilderness Society or Club Fatass sites for info and registration. Again I would be happy to act as liaison to the event for any of your runners as I am also part of the Shuffle organizing committee. There should be an update coming later this week on the Fatass site to the Shuffle event.

We have created a Facebook "group" and runners are beginning to sign up.

We also do a Saturday morning trail run and have some fantastic routes here. Have a look at Strava.com for some of the routes or "segments" that we have created. I wanted to let you know that we exist and provide a contact here for your trail runners in the event that you might want to occasionally vary your routes by coming across to join us for a run and/or vice versa.

Locally we will also be planning a couple other special events that we hope will become annual such as the Confederation Challenge (similar to Grouse Grind) and a 2 day team relay run of the full 180 Km Sunshine Coast Trail.

Let me know if you're interested in having one of your trail runners liaise with our group and we'll set something up to make it happen.

From: Pat Walsh

Email: pat_carrie_walsh@me.com

Breaking News - OCEANSIDE 10K

OCEANSIDE 10K Road & Trail Race
Mother's Day Sunday May 12th 2013
11:00am Parksville Curling Club, Parksville, BC
$20 online or mail in, $30 day of race
Contact: Barry Carr 250-927-1204
Register at: http://www.raceonline.ca/events/details/?id=369
Details at: www.orcarunning.ca

Posted by: Scott Prager on Tuesday March 12, 2013 at 8:34 pm

Breaking News - 5 km Fun Run

Join us for 5 kilometers Date: Saturday March 23, 2013 Location: Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenay (lower floor) Registration: 8:45 - 9:30 (come early if you plan to start early) Start times: 9:15 early start (more than 45 minutes finish) 9:45 main start Cost: $10 per person FREE for Clinic Participants Start/Finish: outside Florence Filberg Center 411 Anderton Ave.

Breaking News - Frontrunners Island Race Series Runners,

Congratulations to all participants in the Island Series - four races completed, four more to go! You are all running very well in your respective age divisions. I would personally like to invite you to participate in the inaugural Harriers Bob Reid Magical Mile on Saturday, April 13, 2013. This new race is conveniently scheduled on the weekend between the final two Series races, Merville 15K and Sooke River 10K. Kid's Krazy Kilometre races start at noon and adult's races go from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm.

The Magical Mile has many unique features such as staggered starts for all runners and separate age class races that you will not find in any other race in Canada. Please visit the website www.MagicalMile.ca for complete event details. The early entry fee of $25.00 ends tonight if you are registering online. Tomorrow, the late fee increases to $30.00 and Day-of-Race entries are $40.00. Register tonight to take advantage of the early rate before the race sells out.

Please note that there are strict entry limits in every age category and once the capacity has been reached, no further entries will be accepted in that category. I will be at the Bazan Bay 5K on Sunday, March 10 and I will honour the early $25.00 entry fee if you register in person at the BB awards ceremony held in the Mary Windspear Hall. Hard copy MM entry forms will be available and I am happy to answer any questions you may have on the Magical Mile.

I hope you will join me on April 13 for an exciting one mile road race, something that Victoria hasn't staged for over 25 years!

Bob Reid Race Director Prairie Inn Harriers

Breaking News - Road Runners Climb to Third at Cedar

The Cedar 12k took place on Sunday February 10th in Nanaimo. This is the third race of the Frontrunners Island Race Series. The Cedar 12k is an extremely difficult race as it is an unusual racing distance and an extremely hilly course. This race drew a large crowd of racers from the Comox Valley Road Runners, with the club's biggest turn out of the season at 26 racers. The effort of the entire team was enough to move the club up to third place overall in the club standings for the Island Race Series.

The race was won by Andrew McCartney in a very fast time of 39:04. Geoff Martinson, winner of the previous two Island Series races, set a fast pace off the start but had to pull out of the race. Vince Brotherston was the first CVRR racer to finish, also crossing the line as the first masters racer overall with a time of 43:12. He was followed closely by Brad Crowe who finished with a personal best time. Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) finished as the third CVRR racer and also had a good race as he works his way back to racing fitness.

The women's race was won by Jen Millar in a time of 44:17. The CVRR women were lead by club coach Kathy Rung, as she finished strong in her first road race of the 2013 season. She was followed by Marion Bryan and Laura Wyatt, both of whom raced well and finished in the top 10 in their age categories.

Leslie Currie also continues to race well this season, placing very well in a difficult age group. Arielle Agar and Linda Agar once again had a great race and crossed the finish line together.  Kiyoko Marton also had an excellent race, as she quickly bounces back into racing form after completing the Goofy Challenge in Disney World in January. Angelica Lauzon, Don Blacklock, and Chris Robinson also raced well as they tackled their first road race of the 2013 season.

The Vancouver First Half 1/2 Marathon also took place on February 10th. Jim Finlayson finished in a time of 1:07:04, setting the Masters half marathon record for BC. He hopes to break the Canadian Masters half marathon record when he races the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon in March. Be sure not to miss him as he is the keynote speaker at the Comox Valley Race Weekend Pasta Dinner on Saturday March 23rd. For tickets or more information, visit www.cvrr.ca

Breaking News - Hatley Castle 8k

Breaking News - 2013 Gutbuster Trail Running Series

2013 Information 

Registration is now open for the 2013 Frontrunners GutBuster Trail Running Series presented by The North Face!  Register for the full series by May 12th, in either the short course or long course, and receive a  FREE TNF running hat. 

 

We have 4 exciting events for you this year in Victoria, Duncan, Ladysmith, and Courtenay.

GB001::Western Speedway, Victoria (May 12th)

GB002::Mt Tzouhalem, Duncan (June 8th)

GB003::Transfer Beach, Ladysmith (July 7th)

GB004::Mt Washington, Comox (August 11th)

Breaking News - Road Runners Strong at Cobble Hill

On Sunday January 27th, a small contingent of Comox Valley Road Runners attended the Cobble Hill 10k race in Mill Bay. This is the second race in the Island Race Series, which also includes both the Comox Valley RV Half Marathon and the Merville 15k in March.

The race was won by Geoff Martinson, who set a new course record of 30:46. Despite a small turn out for the Comox Valley Road Runners, the entire team had strong performances and nearly everyone placed in the top ten in their age categories. The Road Runners were lead by Vince Brotherston, finishing in a time of 35:25. Vince was also the first Masters racer to finisher. Les Disher also had a fantastic race, posting a personal best time of 39:03 and winning his age category. He was closely followed by Keith Wakelin, Louis Lamb, and Roger Plamondon who all managed to get under the coveted time of 40 minutes for the 10k race. Jerry Van also had a great race, finishing in a time of 42:13.

On the women's side, Laura Wyatt, Leslie Curie, and Karen Weller all had excellent races and finished in close succession. All three women earned top 10 finishes in their respective age categories.


Three very dedicated racers took on the double challenge of the Yeti Snowshoes race on Mount Washington on Saturday in addition to the Cobble Hill 10k on Sunday. They were Brad Crowe, Louis Lamb, and Karen Weller. Very impressively, all three posted good results in both of the races.

Breaking News - Extreme Snowshoeing and Extreme Results

 The annual Yeti snowshoe race took place on Mt. Washington on Saturday Jan. 26^th. 

There are three races within the event: a kids snowshoe, a 5k race, and a 10k race.

The Yeti saw many keen participants, including teams from Extreme Runners in both the 5k and 10k race. The Yeti never disappoints with a challenging course of uphill, downhill, groomed, and snow breaking terrain. The Yeti himself (Adam Campbell) also made appearances throughout the course, making it a fun family event for both racers and fans.

 The weather was overcast, but the mild temperature was perfect for running in snowshoes. The Extreme Runners teams did incredibly well, with all participants earning podium finishes. The 10K Extreme Runners team won the team category with individual results as follows: Brad Crowe 2nd male overall, 2nd in age, Shauna Connaughton 3rd overall, 1st woman, Louis Lamb 4th overall, 2nd in age, Marion Bryan 1st in age, Marguerite Masson 2nd in age, John Ingram 1st in age and Cathy Clark 4th in age.

 The 5k team also did extremely well with the following results:Glen Christensen 2nd overall, 1st in age, Mary Ann Rolfe 1st in age, Mary Bridges 1st in age, Karen Weller 3rd in age, and Bonny Ervin 2nd in age.

 The majority of the Extreme Runners team are members of the Comox Valley Road Runners as well. Snowshoeing makes for excellent cross-training as many of the racers prepare for the Island Race Series and other major events later in the season.

 Thank-you to Lene Curts at Extreme Runners for sponsoring the Extreme Runner Teams. Go to www.extremerunners.com and click on Facebook to view more pictures and check out The Yeti Snowshoe Series at www.theyeti.ca.

Breaking News - 2013 5K Running Clinic

2013 has arrived and with it all the excitement of a new running year.  For lots of people it means a brand new start in running or even taking up running for the very first time!  Happily we, CVRR, will be instrumental in the success of about 100 of these eager movers and shakers.

The CVRR 5K Running Clinic is only 2 weeks away from starting, Saturday, January 19 is the date.  We know that all CVRR members are going to be a part of this wonderful, 10 week event which culminates in the 5K fun run on March 23.  To help you get in to the swing of things and have all your questions and concerns met we will be holding a Clinic Volunteer meeting on January 12 in the Craft Room of the Lewis Centre in Courtenay.
Please plan to attend, even if you have done some volunteer work with us before.  This will be the only time we can organize all of you and inform you of our schedule, routes, safety issues, stretches and warm ups!  We need everyone on the same page.  

Breaking News - Bikini Blast Off - 2013

About 25+ hardy souls turned out this evening for the first track session of 2013.
As is customary, the last 400m is run in 'bikini-style' apparel to welcome in the New Year - (runners' equivalent of Polar Bear Swim)

Breaking News - CVRR News - Jingle Bell Run, 2012

The wind and rain did not deter 109 bell ringing runners and 29 volunteers who participated in the annual Comox Valley Road Runners Jingle Bell Run in Seal Bay Park.  The run is organized to raise a little cheer going into the Christmas season and participants donate food and funds to the Comox Valley Food Bank.  In spite of the cold and wet weather it was a successful fund raiser for run directors Sam Knowles and Brooke Thoburn as a van full of food, and $400 in cash was collected.  Comox Valley Businesses were very generous in providing food, drinks and prizes for the participants.  Thank you to Mudsharks , Tim Hortons, Extreme Runners, Ski Tak Hut, Comox Valley RV, Boston Pizza, Zocalo Cafe, Western One, Comox Valley Fitness, CVRD Aquatic Center, Ski And Surf Shop, and  Dodge City Cycles.
On the racing front, veteran marathoners Janet Green and Keith Wakelin forged through crosswinds, tailwinds and headwinds in the Las Vegas Rock and Roll Marathon, which started late in the day and finished in the dark of the evening.  Rock and Roll bands were stationed every mile or so along the strip with the intent of boosting spirits as the runners headed off into the darkness.  A favorite part of the race for Keith was running on a cobblestoned street with a covered mall and a lazer light show while crowds cheered.  Keith finished 45th overall and 2nd in his category in a time of 3:08:41. Janet was 3rd in her category in a time of 4:08:50. This was her 273rd marathon. 
Closer to home, three local racers headed down island for the Ninth Annual Stewart Mountain 10 mile race at Thetis Lake in Victoria.   The day was somewhat sunny but the heavy seasonal rains made the mudholes treacherous. The director was delighted in the knowledge that they were wider, deeper, muddier and stinkier than normal.  CVRR Coach Kathy Rung was 6th woman overall in a time of 1:24:09 while John Ingram was 3rd in his 65 – 69 category and  Cathy Clark finished  in 1:45:06. 
Many Comox Valley Road Runners are engaged in training for the Frontrunners Island Race Series which begins with the Harriers Pioneer 8km on January 13th at 11am.  Many of these  local athletes began running by attending the annual CVRR Running Clinic. The clinic is organized by club volunteers who have many years of running experience. The 27th annual running clinic begins on January 19th at 0830 in the Lower Native Sons Hall in Courtenay.   For anyone wanting to learn to race, run , run/walk or walk, this is the clinic for you .  Please go to www.CVRR.ca or sign up at Extreme Runners in downtown Courtenay.

Breaking News - Comox Valley Road Runners: Remembering, Racing and Ringing

The Comox Valley Road Runners have been busy during the rainy days of autumn.  In mid November the Annual Memorial Run was held, followed by the club’s Annual General Meeting. This run is dedicated to the remembrance of members that the club has lost over the years, including Lorne Franks, John Siemens and Paul Ervin.  Club members also run on this day in memory of other people who were close to them. 
In terms of racing news, a few intrepid CVRR runners travelled to Victoria to compete in “Canada’s Most Challenging 10k and ½ Marathon” at the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort and Spa.  These races are considered very demanding because of the three distinct hills on both courses, which have been named Papa Bear, Mama Bear and Baby Bear. Kiyoko Marton (1:02:15) was the only CVRR racer to participate in the shorter, challenging 10km race while Marion Bryan and Brad Crowe turned in excellent times in the 21 km course.  In a very competitive race,  Marion was 5th woman overall (1:53:42) while Brad was 3rd racer to finish (1:25:06).

More recently, the heavy rain and gale force winds did little to dampen the spirits of three Comox Valley Road Runners who competed in the 30th annual Sacramento California International Marathon. In a race known for it's good weather, this was one of the worst years ever with high winds knocking down trees and causing power outages and the rain coming down so hard at times that the racers were running through water half way up their calves along sections of the race course.
The local contingent was lead by Les Disher in a time of 3:04:37 finishing 1/129 competitors in the M6064 age division. Danny Keyes ran a personal best time of 3:14:20, 25/394 in the M5054 age group. Rounding out the CVRR team was Wayne Crowe, coming off injury he managed a respectable 3:14:52, 11/223 M5559.
Future CVRR events include the annual Jingle Bell Run. Bring your family, bells, and food to Seal Bay Nature Park on Sunday December 9th at 10am. The poker run supports the Comox Valley Food Bank. This is a fun run that meanders through the wonderful trails at Seal Bay Park. It’s goal is to collect money and non-perishable food items for the Comox Valley Food Bank.   
   “Last year the event was an overwhelming success.” said Sam Knowles, who coordinated the 2011 run with Brooke Thoburne, both very active CVRR members. “We raised over $800.00 and collected a truck load of food from over 200 bell ringing  participants and we’re going for a PB  amount this year.” added Knowles.  
    Participants can run or walk their choice of a 7km or 3km course this year. They’ll collect poker cards on the course and the best hands win locally donated prizes. Registration for the Jingle Bell Run will start at the Bates Road parking lot at Seal Bay Nature Park on Sunday December 9th at 10am. Walkers will start at 10:45am and the runners will start at 11am. Registration fee is a $5.00 donation and a non-perishable food item. All proceeds collected will be donated to the Comox Valley Food Bank. There will be refreshments and draw prizes that have been provided by local businesses. Please visit www.cvrr.ca for more details.
Don’t forget to put your bells on!

Breaking News - CVRR 2012 Xmas Party

Comox Valley Road Runners
2012 Xmas Party

Tickets are now on sale for the 2012 CVRR Xmas dinner and dance!

This year it will be held at the Mex Pub on Friday, December 7th, with the band XLR8 providing the music.

Dinner will be traditional Xmas dinner with both turkey and ham, as well as a vegan option and plenty of veggies, salads and, of course, desserts.

Tickets are only $25 and are limited in number so get yours early. This year we are opening ticket sales up immediately to swim-fit, the triathlon club and the cycling club as well as all trail and pool runners.

Tickets will be available at Tuesday track and Monday pool running as well as at Extreme Runners …or contact Karen Weller at  karen.weller@yahoo.ca

Breaking News - Memorial Run / Runner Profile

Local Runner Profile : Dominic Nadeau
Comox Valley Road Runner News  

Dom Nadeau is a grade 12 student at Mark.R.Isfeld Secondary who has been running for 4 years and has been an active member of the Comox Valley Road Runners.  Dom has been running with Jorge Parra-Martinez who is providing a training schedule to maximize Dom’s performance.  He has been running 145 km weekly and setting personal best race times.  He loves racing competitively and pushing himself to the limits.  He runs trails and roads and has competed in the in the Frontrunners Island Racing Series and the Frontrunners Gutbusters Trail Running Series.   In mid October Dominick placed first in the North Island Secondary Schools 2012 Cross Country Series in Campbell River and was greeted by Olympian Cam Levins. Dom takes inspiration from Cam’s racing career.  
All CVRR members and the public are invited to attend the annual CVRR Memorial Run. This year the event will be held Sunday, November 18 at Lewis Park beginning at the Salish building at 10 am. Registration 9:15-9:45. This run is in recognition of people who we have lost. That might include club members such as Lorne Franks, John Siemens and Paul Ervin, or people may want to run in the memory of someone else who was close. This is an event for people at all levels from walkers to runners and that would be a good chance to meet other CVRR club members. This is a fun run, not a race. It is not about speed. The format of the run will be anywhere from 2 to 6 x 1.7 Km loops around a course including Lewis and Simm's Parks with the winners being the closest to their own predicted time. Maximum time allowed is 50 minutes. No watches or timing devices allowed. The event is free for all club members and $10 for non members. Following the Memorial Run please consider joining other club members for a potluck brunch in the Salish building. Bring a food item to share. Please bring your own plate, cup and utensils and make sure your serving spoons can be identified. The brunch will start at 11 am. Following the brunch will be a brief AGM. It will be a great opportunity to meet the board and find out what the club has been up to.

Breaking News - 2012 Memorial Run

Breaking News - 2012 - Hallowe’en at the Track

Breaking News - 2012 Royal Victoria Marathon - CVRR Performance

Comox Valley Road Runners Race Well on the Thanksgiving Weekend in Victoria
There were many cheers and smiles at the Vanier Track workout of the Comox Valley Road Runners this past Tuesday night as racers returning from the 33rd running of the Goodlife  Fitness Victoria marathon, ½ marathon and 8km shared their stories.  The fastest CVRR marathoner in the premier race of the day Vince Brotherstone captured one goal to run his race “sub 3” even though he had to run the last 10 km in his stocking feet. In addition to his blisters he received a 3rd place age (M 45 – 49) class medal.. First timers Jerry Van, Marion Bryan, Karen Weller, Raida Bolton, Sharon Fisher and Kioko Martin can be very pleased with their individual performances and a few said they would definitely do it again.  Chris Stanger ran a quick pace for his first Canadian marathon.  Karen Weller received a 3rd place age (F 55 – 59) class medal for her first time racing the long distance in the Victoria city streets. Veteran racer Keith Wakelin received a 2nd place age (M 50 – 54) class medal for his race and Les Disher claimed first place in the M 60 – 64 category. Janet Green ran her 269th marathon this past Thanksgiving weekend. CVRR also took home the 1st place in the Masters marathon team.
 It was perfect racing weather according to CVRR President Wayne Crowe as he cruised to break the standing 10 year age record by 20 seconds in the ½ marathon to take 1st place in the M50 – 54 category.  Neil Holm was the quickest CVRR racer of the day in the ½ distance to claim a second place medal (M45 – 49). Brian Rose performed a personal best time by shaving a over 5 minutes off the last ½ marathon he ran.  Andrea Prager continues to turn in quick performances.
In the 8 km race Emily Keyes blazed to a strong finish of 36 minutes flat to take the top medal in F 13 – 15 category. Hannah Bolton joined her mother Raida for the weekend and ran her first race ever and can be very pleased with her results.  Jill Blacklock took home a 2nd place medal for her performance in the fast shorter race of the weekend.  Molly Keyes came second overall in the Kids Race.
 For most races, a runner will generally set themselves a goal time whether they state that goal out loud or keep it private. Many of the weekend racers met and exceeded their goals. All of the racers from the weekend represented the CVRR very well. The CVRR Masters Men Marathon team brought home the 1st place team award while the CVRR Masters Men ½ marathon team brought home the second place team award.
For full results of the Goodlife Fitness marathon races please go to http://runvictoriamarathon.com/aftertherace/results.php
For further information on the Comox Valley Road Runners please see http://www.cvrr.ca

CVRR Marathon Results
Vince Brotherston 2:58:08 M 45 – 49 3rd in category
Keith Wakelin 3:03:55 M 50 -54 2nd
Les Disher3:08:21M 60 – 64 1st
Chris Stanger 3:10:02 M 40 – 44
Danny Keyes 3:14:30 M 50 – 54 4th in category
Jerry Van 3:25:48 M 50 -54
Marion Bryan 3:40:56
Karen Weller 3:52:26 F 55 – 59 3rd in cat
Janet Green 3:52:52 F55-59 4th in cat
Raida Bolton 4:02:12 F 40 -44
Sharon Fisher 4:16:18 F 40 – 44
Kiyoko Martin 4:47:19 F 25 – 29
Donald Blacklock 4:47:45 M 65 – 69
Tom Munro 5:15:04 M70 - 74

CVRR ½ Marathon Results
Neil Holm 1:12:56 M45 – 49 2nd in cat
Wayne Crowe 1:21:20 M 55 – 59 (beating the 10 year age category record of 10 years by 20 seconds.)
Brian Rose 1:33:23 M 35 – 39
Andrea Prager 1:34:45 F 35 – 39
Mark Arsenault  1:39:49 M 45 – 49   
Karen Tobacca 1:55:20 F 55 -59    
Linda Agar 1:58:13 F 50 -54
Stephen Turple 1:59:43 M 45 – 49
Robert Lundine 2:01:34 M 65 – 69
Jennifer Gibson 2:02:06 F 50 -54
Wayne Boyce 2:04:09 M 65 – 69
Therese Schwab 2:04:53 F  50- 54 
Martha Russell 2:05:32 F 50 – 54    
Sheila Van Giesbregen 2:15:27
Deborah Wakelin 2:21:55 F 50 -54
Sarah Savage 2:32:41 F 50 -54

CVRR 8 km Results
Robin Poirier 27:58 M 25 – 29
Emily Keyes 36:00 F13 – 15 1st in cat
Hannah Bolton 41:46 F 15 - 19
Jill Blacklock 44:45 F 65 – 69 2nd in cat
Wayne Tobacca 45:16 M 55 – 59
Adam Simpson 53:59 M 70 – 74
Claudia Boyce 54:55 F 60 -64
Betty Clough 1:23:08 F 70 – 74

Breaking News - 2012 Rock Marathon and Half Marathon on Texada Island

ROAD RUNNERS RULE THE ROCK

A small group of Comox Valley Road Runners made the trek across the water to run the Second Annual Avid Fitness Run the Rock Marathon and Half Marathon on Texada Island. These were small, friendly events on very challenging and scenic courses. The 42.2 Km Marathon started at Shelter point and looped over the top of Texada to Van Anda before continuing back to Shelter Point for the finish. The 21.1 Km Half Marathon followed the same route from Van Anda to Shelter Point.

Keith Wakelin successfully defended his title in the marathon and set a new course record in 3:08:06. Roslyn Smith took home the women's title in the marathon with a time of 3:54:07, also a course record. Mega marathoner Janet Green notched another one with a finishing time of 4:16:20 on the hilly course. It was her 266th marathon.

In the Half Marathon, Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) was the overall winner in a very impressive time of 1:23:04, also a course record. Veteran racer Diane Palmason continues to amaze as she completed the race in 2:13:30, eclipsing her time from last year and showing she is getting better, not older. Winner of the women's Half Marathon was Lisa Morrow of Powell River in a time of 1:40:15.
Many of the friendly Texada Island locals came out to cheer on the racers as they passed by. The organizers, all of the enthusiatic volunteers and the community are to be thanked for an extremely well run event. This is one runners should consider next year as a destination race. Make sure to put it on your calender.  Full results can be seen on the race website at http://www.avidfitness.ca/rock/

Breaking News - 2012 Nautical 4-Miler Race

The longest running foot race in BC was held in Comox on BC Day prior to the Nautical Days parade.  The 4 Mile distance attracted young and old from 10 years to 70+ years for this fun race in downtown Comox.  One hundred and eleven racers completed the course in well under an hour. Victoria racer, Craig Odermatt had the fastest time of the day in 21:00 minutes flat followed quickly in second place by Comox Valley Road Runner  Neil Holm (21:27) and barefoot runner Robin Poirier in 3rd place (21:36).  Melissa Ross of Parksville had an excellent race in 22:44 minutes with CVRR runner Andrea Prager 27:17 and Coach Kathy Rung 27:32 in 2nd and 3rd place women overall.  The 13 – 19 year old category in both male and females were well represented with Dominic Nadeau (22:11) leading the M 13 – 19 category followed by Scott Commander (22:43) close on his heels and Connor Buchanan in 3rd place (23:55).  Emily Keyes (30:56) lead the F 13 – 19 category with Kylie Adebar (31:04) closely behind and Claudia De Muylder (32:58) in 3rd place in that category.  For full results of the 43rd running of the Nautical Days 4 Miler please see the Comox Valley Road Runners web site at www.cvrr.ca .  Everyone appeared to enjoy themselves, no doubt helped by the ideal weather conditions. We are very grateful to all the volunteers and sponsors, without whom the race could not have taken place.”.  On such a hot day the runners particularly appreciated the “misting” provided by the Comox Fire Hall as they ran by.  
The next race of interest to young runners and new young runners is the Comox Valley Exhibition Track and Trail Kids Fun Run held at the Comox Valley Exhibition on Saturday, August 25th.  a one of a kind, running event and a great way to introduce young runner to the adventure of trail running. Catering to kids of all ages, this run has three different age categories and three different distances. The Marshmallows (0-5) run on the Exhibition’s 500m horse track. The Chicklets (6-9) run a 1km loop through the nearby wooded trails and the Truffles (10 and up) run a 1.5km loop also in the trails and along the river.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 25th. Day of registration is from 9a.m. to 9:45a.m. at the Dove Creek Entrance to the Comox Valley Fairgrounds. Race start is 10a.m. and awards are at 11 am.  

Results of the Nautical Days 4 Miler Category M and F 13 – 19         
        
        
Dominic Nadeau    22.11    M13-19
Scott Commander    22.43    M13-19
Connor Buchanan    23.55    M13-19
Keith Forsberg    25.59    M13-19
Danny Yeo    28.36    M13-19
Jack Milliken    30.33    M13-19
Jamie Roddick    30.54    M13-19
Emily Keyes    30.56    F13-19
Jack Yeo    30.58    M13-19
Kylie Adebar    31.04    F13-19
Grayson Scott    32.46    M13-19
Claudie De Muylder    32.58    F13-19
Anu Manninen    34.21    F13-19
Hazel Sherritt    39.05    F13-19
Eden Wallis    41.40    F13-19
        
12 and under

Thomas Sherritt    42.46    
M12 & Under
Christophe De Muylder    44.06    
M12 & Under
Ella Praeger    46.04    
F12 & Under
Garrett Garlock    52.45    
M12 & Under

For more information:

Breaking News - 2012 Gutbusters Wrap-Up -Mt. Washington

Frontrunners Gutbuster  Trail Running Series wraps up at Mount Washington...

 

Comox Valley Road Runners had such a strong turnout and participation in the Frontrunners Gutbuster Trail Running Series that they won the “Free Lunch” sponsored by Fat Teddy’s at Mount Washington recently.  The 3^rd and final Gutbuster is called appropriately ‘the ascent’. The GutBuster Ascent Race at Mt. Washington Ski Resort is the only uphill trail race on the Island. The race is a 6km run up to the top of Mt. Washington (1588m!) with 505m of elevation gain. The race starts at the Alpine Lodge and steadily climbs up the mountain through the trees and bike park. Once above the treeline racers were treated to some unbelievalbe views of the Comox Valley & Strathcona Park. Snow levels require that the race course is changed annually. While considered the most scenic it is definitely gutbusting as it is steep and short.  Comox Valley Road Runners continued to bring in a number of 1^st, 2^nd or 3^rd place finishes.  Brad Crowe was 6^th overall up the mountain and 3^rd in his 30 – 39 age category;  young Peter Gledhill continues to burn up the hills arriving second in his 0 -19 category followed closely on his heels by Domick Nadeau;  Keith Wakelin received a first place in his category .  Shauna Connaughton of CVRR was first female overall, and 1^st in the 20 – 29 category, first female overall requires a very fast effort; Coach Kathy Rung placed 2^nd in her category (30 – 39) followed by Marion Bryan in 3^rd place; Karen Sibley had a solid second place finish in the F 50 – 59 category.   While other CVRR racers may have missed out on the medals,  the slog up Mount Washington is not for the faint of heart ; congratulations to all CVRR participants in the Frontrunners Gutbuster Trail Running Series.  Please full results and information see  http://www.gutbustertrailrun.com.   For further information about the Comox Valley Road Runners please see http://www.cvrr.ca/

3/23 M3039 31:35 Brad Crowe Comox Valley Road Runners
8 2/10 M0119 32:12 Peter Gledhill Comox Valley Road Runners
3/10 M0119 32:34 Dominick Nadeau
 6/23 M3039 32:56 Louis Lamb Comox Valley Road Runners
 1/9 M5059 34:11 Keith Wakelin Comox Valley Road Runners
 4/12 M2029 34:23 Kevin Wakelin Comox Valley Road Runners
6/13 M4049 36:38 Chris Stanger Comox Valley Road Runners
 1/6 F2029 36:44 Shauna Connaughton Comox Valley Road Runners
 2/20 F3039 39:52 Kathy Rung Comox Valley Road Runners
3/20 F3039 40:28 Marion Bryan Comox Valley Road Runners
 17/23 M3039 43:40 Daniel Girard Comox Valley Road Runners
 2/10 F5059 44:57 Karen Sibley Comox Valley Road Runners
 5/14 F4049 48:29 Korky Richardson Comox Valley Road Runners
 7/14 F4049 49:54 Raida Bolton Comox Valley Road Runners
 7/10 F5059 52:16 Leslie Dargie Comox Valley Road Runners
 10/14 F4049 57:54 Denise Fenske Comox Valley Road Runners

9/9 M5059 1:07:56 Chris Robinson Comox Valley Road Runners

Breaking News - Stellar Olympic Performance by Cam Levins at Men's 10,000m

What a stellar performance by our local guy, Cam Levins! His first time in a world arena with ‘the world watching’ and 80,000 spectators cheering in the London Olympic Stadium, Cam proved that he not only has the running power but the smarts and composure of a truly world –class athlete.
His accomplishment is phenomenal given age and the venue. He ran his race strategically and waited patiently until the last couple of km. To place 11th in this class of the best of the very best in the world (11th in a field of 29) is remarkable.
Us mere mortals can only speculate what it must be like to perform at his level. This young man has made his mark in the international running world and put Canada back in the mix as a true contender for the next World Track & Field Championships and the 2016 Rio Olympics.
We should all feel very proud of Cam and privileged to have been in his company (brief as it might have been), as he would speed effortlessly past us on our training runs in the Comox Valley.

1. Mohamed Farah (Britain) 27:30:42
2. Galen Rupp (U.S.) 27:30.90
11. Cameron Levins (Canada) 27:40.6

Watch out for his best event at the 5000m scheduled for Saturday August 11th.

For more information: Cam Levins - 10,000m Olympic performance

Breaking News - Qualifier for 2013 Duathlon World Championships

Another win for Derek Richmond at the Alberta Provincial Duathlon Championships on Sunday, July 22 was also a qualifier (one spot for 1st place finisher in age group) for the 2013 World Duathlon Championships. Next year's event will be held in Ottawa - it will be the first time for 15 years since the event was held in Canada.
Derek has represented Canada on a number of occasions as part of the National Team, the last time being at Edinburgh in 2010.
Derek took 2011 off from competition and decided on a slow start to this season to recover from injuries. His aim now is to stay healthy and strengthen for next year's events, likely rounding out this season with some races in USA as well as Canada.

Breaking News - 2012 Kusam Klimb

2012 Kusam Klimb

Comox Valley Road Runners Are Tough Enough.

The invitation to participate in the Kusam Klimb  is "Are you Tough Enough?".  Ten local racers proved their toughness recently in tackling the The Kusam Klimb , a wild and rugged 23 km loop heading up and over Mount H’Kusam and down the Stowe Creek watershed near Sayward. Starting at sea level, participants pass through some of the most spectacular scenery on Vancouver Island with views of mountain peaks and the Johnstone Strait as they negotiate their way over the "Bill's" trail. The times were slower than normal because of the trail conditions, with more snow, more mud to suck your shoes off, and colder icy creeks up to your thighs.  Many racers went off course and had to find their way back to the route.  For further information please see  http://www.kusamklimb.com/ . For further information about the Comox Valley Road Runners please see http://www.cvrr.ca/

In spite of all of the variables, CVRR racers came away with some medals  and good memories to inspire others to join them next year.

Peter Gledhill  2:49:35  2nd M19 and under
James Powser 2:50:37    1st M40-49
Dominick Nadeau 3:14:01  
Shauna Connaught 3:29:44    3rd overall female 2nd W20-29
Kathy Rung 3:48:32   5th woman overall
Karen Sibley 3:57:07    1st W50-59
Joanne Stanger 4:06:08
Chris Stanger 4:06:09
Louis Nadeau 5:19:32
Kiyoko Marton 8:28:50

Breaking News - Canada Day 5th Street Mile

Canada Day –5th Street Mile 2012

The skies were balmy.  The road was fast and dry.  The temperature was running-perfect.  Nearly 200 runners streamed down Fifth Street ahead of the parade in their reds and whites, as part of the annual Canada Day 5th Street Mile road race, organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners.  Scott Commandeur led the pack in the one-mile-long course to finish in 4:20.  Close behind Commandeur was Robin Poirier who ran barefoot, Andrew Howard, Steven Griffith-Cochrane, Vince Brotherston, Connor Buchanan, Noah Lewis, Torin Halverson, Paul Forgues, and Patrick Montgomery, all finishing under 5 minutes.  Leading the women, Joanna Williams finished 16th overall, in a time of 5:27.  
Top 3 age category finishers were:
Over 20 males: Robin Poirier 4:24; Andrew Howard  4:27;  Steven Griffith-Cochrane  4:30
Over 20 females:  Marion Bryan 5:47; Cheryl Glennie  6:51; Audrey Causse  7:26
15-19 males: Scott Commandeur   4:20; Connor Buchanan  4:49;  Noah Lewis  4:52
15-19 females:   Savannah Glennie  6:46;  Frances Theron  7:16;  Jill Lambeth 7:41
10-14 males:  Torin Halverson  4:54;  Cole Moore  5:34;  Matthew Salmon  5:43
10-14 females:  Joanna Williams  5:27;  Chloe Gummer  5:45;  Emily Keyes  5:47
0-9 males:  Coady Frisch 5:59;  Joshua Kalhous 6:14;  Luke Yeo 6:39
0-9 females:  Molly Keyes 6:03;  Jamie Grinder 6:52;  Kassandra Dishlevoy 7:01

The Comox Valley Road Runners wishes to thank event sponsors including the City of Courtenay and the  July 1st Committee, the Comox Valley Cycling Club, Extreme Runners , Jim Smiley at ReMax/Ocean Pacific Realty, Quality Foods, and Thrifty Foods.  The next local road race is the Nautical Days 4-Miler on BC Day (Aug. 1) in Comox.  Please go to http://cvrr.ca for more info.

A listing of all runners who completed the 5th Street Mile can be seen on the CVRR website in the order they finished.

Breaking News - CVRR RUNNERS GO LONG AT THE SCOTIA HALF MARATHON

CVRR RUNNERS GO LONG AT THE SCOTIA HALF MARATHON


Comox Valley Road Runners were well represented at the recent Scotia Half Marathon held in Vancouver. The event challenged the local runners and was a showcase for two of Canada's Olympic Marathon competitors in their final preparation for the upcoming Games.

4500 runners left the UBC campus in the early morning in near perfect conditions for the scenic and challenging 21 Km treck to the Stanley Park finish. Olympian Reid CoolsaEt was the overall winner in a time of 1:03:16 with his team member Eric Gillis finishing third in 1:03:56. The winner of the women's event was Krista Duchene with a dominant performance in a time of 1:14:02.

Leading the Comox Valley contingent across the line was Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) who was the winner of the 55-59 age group and 38th overall, in a time of 1:22:14. Les Disher battled through injury to finish first in the 60-65 age group in a time of 1:28:20 which placed him an impressive 110th overall in this very competitive race. Chris Perry continued his hard fought quest to break the magical 1:30 barrier as he fought off physical illness to cross the line in the oh so close time of 1:31:30. Danny Keyes and Jerry Van had their own personal competition going on as Danny raced past Jerry just before the end to finish only two seconds ahead in times of 1:34:48 and 1:34:50. Jerry promises revenge in their next competition.

In the 5 Km competition CVRR was represented by rising star 13 year old Emily Keyes. She ran an impressive time of 21:42 to finish 3rd in the 0-15 age group and an amazing 20th overall out of 2000 runners.

On a special note, CVRR received special recognition at the awards ceremony for their voracious cheering as team members went up to receive their medals. Way to go team, that's the spirit!

Next on the local racing scene the Comox Valley Road Runners will once again be hosting the Canada Day 1 Mile Road Race down 5th street in advance of the Canada Day parade.This is a free event open to all ages and abilities. Registration for the race occurs between 9:00 and 9:45 am at 5th Street and Woods Avenue. The race begins at 10:00 am and heads down 5th Street to Lewis Park-1 mile away! There will be plenty of draw prizes and many opportunities for family and friends to view the race as it traditionally heralds the beginning of the parade and Canada Day festivities. Refreshments will follow at Simms Park and all registered racers will receive a Canada Day ribbon!

Breaking News - Great Results at Big Sur - 2012

Great Results at Big Sur

Comox Valley Road Runners flew the Canadian flag with pride at the recent Big Sur International Marathon in California. Described by organizers as "a race on the ragged edge of the western world", this is one of the most difficult marathons that exist. The Big Sur Marathon is 26.2 miles of some of the most beautiful coastline in the world, and, for runners, the most challenging. The athletes who participate in the Big Sur International Marathon may draw inspiration from the spectacular views, but it takes major discipline to conquer the hills of Highway One on the way to the finish line. To add to the difficulty, this year, the racers were faced with gale force headwinds for a large part of the course. There are so many highlights including the beat of the Taiko Drums energizing runners for the two mile climb to the summit of Hurricane Ridge. As they race down the steep slopes on the other side of the Ridge the participants are greeted by beautiful and mystical notes from young virtuoso Michael Martinez playing a grand piano while they traverse the famous Bixby bridge crossing the deep chasm below. The course continues to wind it's way up and down the the relentless hills of the rugged California coastline before finishing in the tiny, magical, artists' village of Carmel.
Remarkably, two CVRR runners finished on the podium at Big Sur this year, showing the strength of the local running scene. Local champion Roz Smith continued her winning ways coming home the winner of the W60-64 division in a time of 3:49:34. Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) finished second in the M55-59 age group and an impressive 40th overall out of almost 3400 finishers, with a time of 3:04:56. Also impressive was the fact that in the age graded rankings, where finishing times are prorated according to age, Roz placed an amazing third overall and Wayne was eighth.
Watch for more upcoming CVRR news as the race season gets into full gear.
This past weekend, a number of Comox Valley Road Runners ran the new course for the BMO Vancouver Marathon.  Veteran Janet Green said that she really liked the new point to point course having recently run two other "Big City" point to point marathons, Boston and London.  The course is flatter and faster, it runs through neighbourhoods and along the seawall.  Andrea Praeger had a great day in Vancouver and also loved the new course especially in the sunny spring weather.  At least three Comox Valley Road Runners members joined the 5251 other marathoners for the "iconic" 42.2 km race to the finish. 

Danny Keyes (M 50 - 54) 3:19:38; 
Andrea Praeger (F 35 - 39) 3:26:57
Angelica Lauzon (F 20 – 24) 4:18:10

Breaking News - 2012 Fletcher's Challenge

Spring trail racing on the island begins, as the 2012 Frontrunners Island Race Series draws to a close...
Gnarly with a negative altitude gain, was how the Fletcher’s Challenge Memorial Run was described by one of the Comox Valley Road Runners who got up early on Good Friday to join 109 other racers at Westwood Lake in Nanaimo.  The race originated  in 2007 and is organized by the Runners of Compassion (ROC) to remember  fellow runner and sports columnist , Gavin Fletcher, who died in 2006.
 The event consists of a 13 km muddy, hilly and gnarly trail race,  a 6km family fun run,  and an Easter egg hunt. It   has gained momentum over the intervening years and attracts runners wanting a fun, trail race to help prepare for the popular Gutbuster Trail Running Series on Vancouver Island, as well as other trail races across the province.   This year eight CVRR racers completed the 13 km event .   Brad Crowe (1:03:19) was the first CVRR to cross the finish line, while Marion Bryon (1:15:25) was the first CVRR woman.  Mary Bridges (1:19:29) took home a unique trophy for third place masters woman and John Ingram (1:19:51) and Bonny Ervine (1:29:36) were first place in their age categories. 
      7/17  M2039    22 Brad Crowe                1:03:19  
      6/21  M4049    78 Chris Stanger             1:10:27  
      8/27  F2039    16 Marion Bryan              1:15:25  
      2/13  F4049    14 Mary Bridges              1:19:29  
      1/3   M6069   196 John Ingram               1:19:51  
      2/10  F5059   194 Cathy Clark               1:25:06  
      1/2   F6069   193 Bonny Ervin               1:29:36  
      7/13  F4049   195 Korky Richardson          1:30:05  
   
The first Gutbuster race of the season is May 27th in Nanaimo (http://www.gutbustertrailrun.com/gb2.html).  

The last race of the Frontrunners Island Race Series, the Sooke River 10km., is on April 15th..  The CVRR are in second place in club standings and also anticipate a number of individual awards  for those members  completing at least five of the total of eight series races.  For further information about the Comox Valley Road Runners or running in

Breaking News - 2012 Merville 15k

The Merville 15km race , hosted by the River Runners of Campbell River, drew 283 runners from across Vancouver Island and beyond  on April Fools Day. Of  the 28 Comox Valley Road Runners who participated, most placed in the top ten in their age category. Eleven CVRR runners finished with a medal.   First place medals were awarded to Angela Plamondon,  and Roslyn Smith.  Roslyn finished within three seconds of the race record for her age category.  Other first  place age category medals were won by Vince Brotherstone ( who was also the fastest masters ),  and Wayne Crowe .  Second place medals were accepted by Brad Crowe , who out sprinted his competition to the finish line, Louise Martel, Peter Moore, and Karen Weller. Third place medals were awarded to age category winners Chris Winkelar, Kathy Rung (CVRR coach), Mary Ann Rolfe and Angelica Lauzon.

This year the Vancouver Island Running Association with Race Day Timing is promoting a new and exciting ‘race within a race’ for all Frontrunner Island Series Races. The fastest master to sprint the last 100 meters to the finish line is recognized with a special jersey. Louise Martel happily took home the yellow jersey in that category in addition to her 2nd place finish.

The CVRR have a solid 2nd place standing as the runners prepare to head south to Victoria  for the 8th and final race in the Frontrunner’s Island Race Series. The Sooke River Trail and Road Running Club is sponsoring a 10 km road race on April 15th.  

 For more information about the Comox Valley Road Runners see http://www.cvrr.ca/

Breaking News - 2012 CVRR 1/2 Marathon Results for Club Members

CVRR 1/2 Marathon Results for CVRR Club Members who competed in the event.

Breaking News - Congratulations Diane!

In recogntion of Diane's selfless donation of her time to club activities such as the 5-K run, Learn To Run Clinic and track, Wayne Crowe, (CVRR Club President) presents Diane Palmeson with a small tribute of the club's appreciation.
Thank you Diane!

Breaking News - 2012 CVRR Post 1/2-Marathon & Running Clinic

CVRR Press Release
Fast Times and Good Weather at 2012 Race Weekend Events
 
   Following the hurricane force winds from earlier in the week, Comox Valley Road Runner organizers for the race weekend of March 17th and 18th were pleased with the  sunshine and gentle breezes that greeted the 500 + runners who raced in either of  the Run Clinic’s 5 Km Fun Run “wrap-up” celebration or the Comox Valley ½ Marathon on Sunday morning.

 The sky was blue and the temperature perfect for the 80 participants in the 5 km Fun Run held on Saturday March 17, 2012. The run was the finale of the10 week CVRR 5K Clinic held every January to March. Those that took advantage of the 9:15 early start faced a slippery bridge deck as there was still frost on the Condensory Bridge. By the time the main event started at 9:45, the deck was free of frost. Many of the participants and clinic volunteers were in costume as it was St. Patrick’s Day. The first male to finish was Les Burns in a time of 23:06 and first woman was Deidre Pitre in a time of 24:56. The fastest Clinic male was Peter Day in 26:10 and top woman was, again, Deidre Pitre.
The Comox Valley Road Runners would like to thank the following sponsors of the clinic: Boston Pizza, Brinkman and Associates Reforestation Ltd., Extreme Runners, Hot Chocolates, International Forest Products (Interfor) Coastal Woodlands Division (Campbell River), Jim Smiley – REMAX Ocean Pacific Realty, Let’s Go Personal Training, Lotuswear, Sylvan Vale Nursery Limited and Pacific Regeneration Technologies (PRTCampbell  River). Guest speakers who gave willingly of their time during the Clinic were Kathy Rung - CVRR Club Coach, Lene Curts - Extreme Runners, Diane Palmason, Derek Richmond, Dr. Debbie Wright - Bayview Chiropractic and Mia Sutherland - The Core Fitness.

Position Name Time
1 Les Burns 23:06
2 Steve Smith 23:18
3 Deidre Pitre 24:56
4 Peter Day 26:10
5 Mike Read 26:11
6 Amy Carr-Hilton 26:23
7 Jeff Bood 26:43
8 Nicola Heavener 26:44
9 Russ Erskine 27:09
10 Ron Crowther 27:28
11 Nyree Mouritsen 29:02
12 Erik Nieuwejaan 29:03
13 Bill Baynes 29:03
14 Allan Erikson 29:11
15 Melanie Madill 29:42
16 Luis Gonzalez 29:52
17 Lindsay Joyce 29:53
18 Christine Elliott 29:53
19 Kathy Powell 29:56
20 Wayne Tobacca 29:56
21 Wayne Anderson 29:58
22 Jennifer Somerset 30:33
23 Reg Keagen 30:36
24 David Landsdowne 30:53
25 Tammy Mercer 31:07
26 Lindy Oddleifson 31:21
27 Denise Fenske 32:22
28 Christine Sizer 32:30
29 Carrie Holub 32:38
30 Linda Smith 32:42
31 Necia Kaechele 33:02
32 Chrissy Billy 33:15
33 Anne Armstrong 33:32
34 Shawna Stevenson 33:51
35 Frances Theron 33:56
36 Jan Theron 34:00
37 Coral Forbes 34:00
38 Brent Davis 34:05
39 Daisy Dargie 34:05
40 Rhiannon Helm 34:13
41 Rachel Bood 34:13
42 Karen Carriere 34:44
43 Shannon Gaboury 34:49
44 Cindy Bell 34:49
45 Joanne Haugenecker 35:36
46 Tina Crouse 35:37
47 Andrew Ferneyhough 35:38
48 Cathie Collins 35:47
49 Maura Walls 35:59
50 Danielle Walls 35:59
51 Sharon Langhorn 36:00
52 Jane Worth 36:10
53 Beverly Seguin 36:44
54 Michele Garrett 36:44
55 Stacey Wright 37:04
56 Sallie Crawford 37:27
57 Jake Ellis 37:33
58 Colleen 37:40
59 Cliff West 37:42
60 Penny Wood 37:52
61 Fernanda Medicis 39:37
62 Dain Yoon 39:59
63 Heather Macferson 40:35
64 Natalie Burns 40:35
65 Sang Su 40:49
66 Yvonne Lachmum 42:16
67 John Delaney 42:16
68 Barry Hinde 44:38
69 Cathy Whitten 44:38
70 Dea 45:59
71 Karla Blain 48:32
72 Irene Pellar 48:40
73 Pat Widdifield 48:40
74 Henning Larsen 48:55
75 Kari Larsen 48:55
76 Stephanie Larsen 50:44
77 Jane Larsen 50:44
78 Pauline 56:34
79 Ruth Bonker 57:49
80 Sandy McLary 57:


The half marathon held on Sunday, March 18th is not only one of the biggest races in the FrontRunners Island Race Series, it is also part of the TIMEX BC Road Running Series . CVRR Club President Wayne Crowe thought the day was perfect for running, “shorts, singlet and gloves”. The 21.1 kilometre ‘out and back’ course showcases some of the rural beauty of the area and treats runners to fantastic mountain views.  The hilly course encourages negative splits as the back half of the race is somewhat downhill. Race director Brad Crowe was thrilled with the weather and the smooth organization of the event which requires a small army of volunteers to marshal the course, man the start/finish line and prepare the post-race lunch for the 431 runners who completed the race. As is tradition, just prior to the countdown to the start, CVRR president Wayne Crowe and Race Director Brad Crowe presented donation cheques of $300.00 each to two local charities Kidsport and Forbidden Plateau Road Association. A donation of $300 was also presented to Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue, who were onsite to provide first aid for the event. 

In the men’s race, Jim Finlayson, of Apex Runners won in a fast time of 1:07:29 and was followed by  veteran Bruce Deacon Prairie Inn Harriers) in 1:11:22 and Stephen Struthers  of Bastion Running Club 1:13:53. The first CVRR runner was Vince Brotherstone in 9th place overall,and 2nd master in 1:17:28.  Race director Brad Crowe was the second CVRR runner to cross the line in a PB time of 1:19:55 followed by the 3rd CVRR runner Wayne Crowe in a time of 1:23:22.

In the women’s race Melissa Ross of Oceanside Running Club won the top prize in 1:20:25, followed immediately on her heels in the same 20 – 25 category by Care Nelson of Frontrunners West Shore in 1:20:58.  The third female runner was Sonja Futehally of Mercury Rising Triathalon in 1:27:30. Angela Plamondon of the CVRR was the first CVRR female to cross the line in 1:34:46 claiming 1st prize in 45 – 49 division, followed by CVRR coach Kathy Rung in 1:35:36 and Andrea Prager in 136:00 claiming 5th and 6th respectively in the women’s 35 – 39 category.  Another top CVRR woman runner continuing with her winning streak was Roz Smith with a 1st in the Women’s 60-65 division in a blazing 1:38:30.

There were several course records broken this year. Jim Finlayson (Apex Runners) and the winner overall for the day set the new master's course record, beating Jon Brown's previous record with a time of 1:07:29 and setting a new provincial masters record. Bruce Deacon (PIH)  set a new course record for the M45 category. Arjan Gelling (Bastion) blew away the course record for M65 with a time of 1:24:02. Nancy Baxendale (PIH) also crushed the course record for F50 in a time of 1:27:41.  Peter Gledhill of the CVRR and first time ½ marathoner also set a new course record for M01-15 in a time of 1:28:04

Thirty five CVRR members and numerous unattached local runners participated in the event.  Personal best records were set by club members Vince Brotherstone, Brad Crowe, Chris Perry, Danny Keyes, and Andrea Prager.  Also contributing to second place club standings in the Island series and participating in the ½ marathon for the first time were club runners  Louis Lamb, Peter Gledhill, Torin Halverson (12 years old and ran 1:30:42), Dominick Nadeau, Marion Bryan, Kiyoko Marton, and Jeff Stickler.

   Large public events require many volunteers to keep them safe and exciting and the CVRR would like to thank all the many volunteers who came out to ensure this weekend was a success. The continuing sponsorship by community business in the Comox Valley was also key to making the CV ½ Marathon an event to remember. Full race results are available at www.cvrr.ca and racedaytiming.ca/series

Breaking News - 2012 Volunteer of the Year Award

2012 Volunteer of the Year Award goes to Sam Knowles.
Well done Sam!
Sam being presented with award by CVRR club President, Wayne Crowe at the Learn to Run Clinic

Breaking News - 2012 Yeti Run

Extreme Fun at Annual Yeti Snowshoe Race
    Many Comox Valley Road Runners participated in the Annual Yeti Snowshoe Race up Mt. Washington on Saturday Jan. 28th, sponsored by our local Extreme Runners.
    With snowshoes strapped onto their running shoes the participants powered through blowing snow and cool temperatures. In true Yeti fashion, the undulating course was challenging, powdery, and did not disappoint. Running a lot of single track through the trees kept you alert. The climb took your breath away and the event left a smile on your face.   
    Extreme Runners had a 10k team and a 5k team participate. In the sport (5k) Neil Holm led the team putting him 1st M4049 (second overall) followed by Brad Crowe 1st M3039 (third overall), Domonick Nadeau 2nd M0119, Marguerite Masson 1st F5059, Mary Bridges (Let’s Go! Run trainer) 1st F4049, John Ingram 1st M6069, and Cathy Clark 2nd F5059. The enduro course (10k) saw Marion Bryan 3rd F3039, Louis Nadeau 4th M4049, Stephen Turple 5th M4049, Sheila van Gisbergen 1st F6069, and Kiyoko Marton 11th F2029.  
      Thank-you Extreme Runners for supporting the Comox Valley running community.
     Fondly, the Comox Valley Road Runners.

Breaking News - Cobble Hill 10K Rescheduled

Please note that the Cobble Hill 10 km Island Series Race has been rescheduled to February 26th.  Carpooling from the Safeway Parking Lot at 7:45.

For more information: Island Series

Breaking News - 2012 Pioneer 8K - Island Race Series

CVRR RACING NEWS

The Comox Valley Road Runners started 2012 the way they left off 2011. Twenty four racers travelled to West Saanich for the first race of the Vancouver Island Race Series, the Pioneer 8 K. Strong peformances by the entire team has CVRR already entrenched in second place for the overall team competition. Neil Holm (Extreme Runners/Adidas) was the first Road Runner to cross the line, 14th overall and 1st in the M4549 age group in a time of 27:02. First CVRR female was Shauna Connaughton, in her very first race under the CVRR banner. She had an excellent race finishing 7th in the F2529 group in a time of 33:59. Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) 1st M5559 in 30:16 and Diane Palmason 1st F7074 in 47:16 also won their age groups. Other medalists included Vince Brotherston 2nd M4549, Angela Plamondon 3rd F4549, Roz Smith 2nd F6064 and Emily Keyes 3rd F015. The next race in the Island Series is the Cobble Hill 10 K to be held January 22. There will be a race every two weeks including the Comox Valley Half Marathon, the highlight of the Series, to be held March 22. For a full list of finishers go to the CVRR web site at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Stripping in Las Vegas

Two Comox Valley Road Runners joined 38,000 other racers to run the famous Las Vegas strip at night in the recent Rock and Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon. Neon lights and blaring rock bands entertained the masses, which of course included Elvis and Santa, as they made their way along the Boulevard in this unique event.
 Local Road Runner Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics) placed 2nd/578 in the M55-59 group and 269/38,0000 overall, in an impressive time of 1:28:31. He was joined by fellow CVRR runner Mary Bridges (Let's Go) who also competed in the Half Marathon finishing 29/ F40-44 and 999 (1:40:33) overall in this massive field. Mary was quoted as saying that although the format and the size of the field did not allow for fast times, she enjoyed the experience of running under the lights in this one of a kind event.

Breaking News - Comox Valley Road Runners' Annual Christmas Party

 
Mark Friday December 9th, 2011 on your calendar for the CVRR Christmas dinner and dance.
Tickets for this very popular event can be purchased at Extreme Runners beginning Friday November 4th. TYou can also get tickets when you come to the Memorial and Breakfast Run and AGM on November 20th.
We will open sales to the Thursday/Saturday trail runners, Tuesday/Sunday runners, SwimFit and others beginning November 25th.

Please read the attached notice for more details and changes to this year's event.
 
Thank you to Lene and the staff at Extreme Runners for handling our ticket sales!

For more information: Click for details

Breaking News - A Note from Karen Weller

Hi, I'm taking our club gear where it's never been! ...racing in the Arizona desert trails.
 
http://www.meetup.com/The-Phoenix-Marathon-and-half-Runners/photos/4225712/69259562/

Breaking News - MONDAYS, 5-6 PM, SPORTS CENTRE - POOL RUNNING

Pool Running continues at the Sports Centre adjacent to Vanier Track for the rest of 2011, starting MONDAY, 31ST OCTOBER, from 5-6 PM, & every Monday thereafter, with 4 lanes available to us.

Breaking News - Race Pictures Now Available

Race pictures for Goodlife Fitness Marathon and for Miracle Beach 10k are now available online.

Marathon   

Miracle Beach

Breaking News - Tuesday Track Now Offering Two-tiered Workouts

Coach Kathy is now offering suggestions to beginner/less experienced runners every week as to how to modify the week's workout. Check out the Tuesday Track link to see what the current week's workout is, & what you can do if you find the whole workout too intimidating.

Come out next week and give it a try.

2011 Races - GREAT LAKE ULTRAMARATHON

   Comox Valley Road Runner Leo Rolfe travelled to Youbou on Cowichan Lake to help celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Great Lake Walk and Ultramarathon. Almost 300 competitors started at 5 A.M. by singing the National Anthem and then, with headlamps glowing, began the long soggy and challenging trek along a logging road.  The course wound its way along the rugged terrain circumnavigating the Lake for 56 kilometers, because as one of the supporter's signs said, “57 kilometers would be crazy”.

   It was an extremely well organized race. Leo managed to run the entire distance and stated, "The support and encouragement of the dedicated volunteers at each of twelve rest stops was overwhelming and gave me the will to finish the most grueling race I've ever done! Hearing my name called out at each rest stop encouraged me to go on". One of Leo's many fans was on hand to greet him at the finish.

   Participants in this event have raised over 700 thousand dollars for various charities over the past ten years of competition. There were a lot of blistered feet, tired bodies and satisfied smiles at the end of a punishing, but rewarding, day.

Breaking News - Guess Who Moved into a New Age Group!

Crowe the Younger celebrated his 30th birthday last Sunday by winning the overall title in the Campbell River 50k Bike/Run.

Breaking News - City Council Meeting, Courtenay, Sept. 6th.

The Comox Valley Cycling Coalition will be giving a presentation to
Courtenay Council on Sept. 6, 4:00 PM in Courtenay City Hall.

The general subject will be for Council to make improvements to
Cycling infrastructure a higher priority, and we will specifically ask
 to have a Pedestrian/Cycling bridge built over the Courtenay River in
the Summer of 2012.

This bridge, located between the foot of 6th Street (near Central Builders) and Simms Park, will be the hub of an extensive Cycling Network covering the whole Comox Valley. One of the next steps after
this bridge is built, will be to have a cycling path going around the Slough, over highway 19A and behind Superstore to Back Road and Ryan Road.

It would be of great help to the cause to have as many people as
possible at this meeting to show members of council that many people
in the Valley are supporting investment into cycling and walking to
reduce the number of cars on our roads. With an election coming up
this Fall, politicians are more likely to vote on something that might
get them re-elected.

Please, try to make it to this meeting and promote it with your family, friends, colleauges, etc.

Hope to see you on Tuesday, September 6, 4:00 PM in Courtenay City Hall.

Email edschum@shaw.ca if you have any questions or need more information.

Breaking News - Cougars (Pipeline, Sep 5th), Bear (Trent River)

Just wanted to let everyone know that I was running up the pipeline this morning (Sept . 5th) and turned a corner up near the last cross over bridge and saw two large cougars standing on the pipeline looking at me.
I made a lot of noise and made myself very tall. They quickly ran off but I thought everyone who likes to run up that way should be aware of this.

Happy running!!!
Neil Holm


And I have also heard that there was a Mama bear and cub in the Trent River Trails.  Mama bear was not taking too kindly to the bikers travelling in the area and bluff charged a solo rider.

Safe Travels in the trails....take a buddy...

Breaking News - Extreme Island Girlz On last stage of Trans Rockies Today

Extreme Island Girlz team of Cathy Livsey and Robyn Dicesare are on their last stage (stage 6) of the gruelling 120 mile Trans Rockies Run from Buena Vista, Colorado to Beaver Creek, Colorado. They started last Saturday in Buena Vista which is at over 8,000' elevation and have been climbing over peaks of over 12,600' in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado. They have been dealing with fatigue, blisters and aches and pains but have been performing amazingly considering they have not trained or run at this altitude before! They were in 6th place in the 80+ Women's division up against some very tough competition. They slipped to 7th in yesterday's gruelling climbing stage (with over 4100' of elevation climbs in 23 miles) but are only a couple minutes back of 6th as they enter the last stage. The race has been "Epic" and today's last stage from Vail to Beaver Creek promisses to be even more so with 5000' of climb over a tough 23.6 miles that will include scrambles and stream crossings.
 
You can check out the blog on the CVRR Forums under Race Reports - 2011 Trans Rockies Run Colorado or go to the TRR website http://transrockies.com/transrockiesrun/news/?cat=9

2011 Races - LOCALS COMPLETE HALF MARATHON “FUN RUN”

Well, it's not how most people would choose to spend a nice sunny day in Port Alberni, but runners are a strange lot. Fourteen runners from the Comox Valley Road Runners invaded Port Alberni to run in the annual Log Train Trail Marathon. For some of our local runners it was a perfect training run for the upcoming Victoria marathon and half marathon in October. This run is billed as a “non-race” and athletes simply do it for the joy and the challenge of completing the distance. According to race director Chris Morrison of the Arrowsmith Running Club, “the spirit of the event is one of bringing together like minded people, with a spirit of mutual enjoyment and cameraderie. Our event has never been one of competition, it has always been about friendship.”  The run travels along a trail that traces the remains of an old log train rail trail through the beautiful forests outside Port Alberni. There is no timing and no awards for those finishing the fastest. The reward is just being there and completing the distance with their fellow competitors. All participants completing the run received a silver rail spike as a memory of completing this unique event.

Breaking News - ROAD RUNNER NEWS

Two Comox Valley Road Runners did their imitation of mountain goats in the Emperor's Challenge, a half marathon held in Tumbler Ridge on August 6. This challenging race begins at the treeline and then goes straight up to the summit of Babcock Mountain. Here runners are challenged by rocky open terrain before tackling the steep and trecherous decent back down the mountain to the finish line. CVRR veteran John Ingram placed second in the Grand Master's M50-69 age division while partner Cathy Clarke showed her strength finishing first in the Grand Master's F50-59 age division.

In other CVRR news, extreme racers Robyn Dicesare and Karen Siblely took on the Warrior Dash in Whistler BC on August 6. This 5000 meter race takes challenging to a whole new level. The race course is referred to as a battlefield for good reason. Racers cover rugged terrain with multiple obstacles including leaping through fire, climbing over walls and cargo fencing, crawling through mud pits and under barb wire fencing. Robyn has done hundreds of races and was quoted as saying “this is the most fun race I have ever done”. Our local warriors definitely showed their toughness with Robyn finishing first in the W45-50 age group and 53rd overall out of 4500 runners and Karen finishing second in the W50-59 age group and 92nd overall. Former valley runner Robin Poirier finished an amazing second overall in this competition. They will all wear their fuzzy viking hats, mememtos of the race, with pride.

Gordon Harris and his team "Wii not so Fit" came 42/177 in the mixed division of the 125km Canadian Death Race in Grand Cache Alberta in a total time was 17:04:43.

2011 Races - CVRR Members do well in Northern Races by Gord Harris

My team "Wii not so Fit" came 42/177 in the mixed division of the 125km canadian death race in grand cache alberta, jul 30th.  Our total time was 17:04:43
 
My leg 4 was 4:44:37, 47/167 overall and 6/19 in my age group.
 
Mary Bridges was solo, 20:51:33, 44/360 overall, 12/90 gender, 4/34 age.
 
 
In the emperor's challenge aug 6th in tumbler ridge, babcock mountain, 20km
 
John Ingram was 2nd in age group 50-64 with 2:00:01
Cathy Clarke was 1st in age group 50-64 with 2:15:26

2011 Races - 124 Runners Complete the 42nd Annual Nautical Days 4 Mile Road Race

Breaking News - Bocce - Potluck Party

This will be the third year that we've met to challenge our hand-eye skills at Bocce. The field is winding and lumpy, the teams eclectic and the evening ends with suprising results. Teams are put together as people arrive: random selection ensures that the best adapted survive.

Please bring: Something to share, a chair,plate, cup and utensils. (If someone wants to BBQ please let me know and I'll get the barbeque ready). Bathing suit if you want to swim and warm clothes to put on for later in the evening to keep the chill and bugs off.

If anyone has a Bocce game please bring it as we need at least 4. Also I'm looking for 2 Croquet games for the second activity or the Twister game will come out again! PRIZES FOR THE MOST CREATIVE HATS.

Directions: Follow Headquarters north to the end turn left at the stop sign (also Headquarters). Follow Headquarters west to next stop sign, take the left fork onto Fitzgerald and go straight for 1km. Carlson is the gravel road where Fitzgerald takes a bend to the right. Go to the last driveway on the right - park on the side of the road BEWARE OF THE DITCHES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ROAD  and walk down the driveway past the cottage to the river.
If the weather is too wet we will postpone until the next weekend: August 14th.

Ciao

Breaking News - Farewell Dinner for Robyn & Eric

  It is with mixed feelings that we bid adieu to Robyn and Eric. Road runners, trail runners and friends please join the CVRR Executive for a farewell dinner for two of our most active members.

Breaking News - Campbell River 50k Challenge

Campbell River will be again hosting its annual 50KM Trail Challenge on
September 4th.  The event consist of a 27KM loop that starts on the edge of the Pumphouse Trail system at the PRT Nursery on Snowden Road, making its way out into the Snowden Demonstration Forest to finish back at the Nursery. The event is 95% buff, fast, challenging technical single-track that will push your limits.  Pre-registration can be done via snail mail (see attached brochure and link to our blog for more info) or in the morning on race day.

There is free camping in a large grassy field (the start/finish area) and
après event fun includes a gourmet meal cooked in our outdoor wood fired pizza oven that was constructed two years ago just for the event.  The real challenge is deciding whether or not you liked the run better, or the food!

Come on up the night before and hang out with the organizers around a
roaring fire!

Hopefully see you there!

Breaking News - The Nautical Days 4 Mile Foot Race Monday Aug.1st at 9:00am

   The oldest continually held running race in British Columbia is fast approaching. The fun and fast Nautical Days 4 Mile Road Race is an integral part of the Nautical Days festivities and this year’s race again promises to delight all challengers.

   This year’s race is scheduled for Monday August 1st, at 9 a.m. sharp, starting at Comox Town Hall, 1809 Beaufort Ave. Registration is the morning of race day only, from 8:00 to 8:45am in front of Comox Town Hall. Registration fee is only $10.

   The race follows the challenging, traditional 4-mile route around scenic Comox streets heading east from the Town Hall as far as Torrence Ave; up the hill to Noel; west on Noel to the firehall; turning right on Linshart Ave and up to Bolt Ave; then along Bolt to Anderton and left to Comox Ave ending at the finish chute in front of the former Lorne Hotel location at the corner of Comox and Port Augusta. There are great refreshments and awards held in the Lorne Hotel parking area after the race.
   Volunteers are still needed and anyone who would like to volunteer can get in touch with Karen Weller, the race director, at karen.weller@yahoo.ca or at the phone number below.

Karen Weller
2246 Lambert Dr
Courtenay, BC, V9N 9C9
250-338-0195

Breaking News - 2011 5th Street Mile

Canada Day doesn’t usually evoke thoughts of shivering under cloudy skies, but this did not deter over 200 runners who streamed down Fifth Street ahead of the parade in their reds and whites, as part of the annual Canada Day 5^th Street Mile road race, organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners.  Local track star, Cam Levins, led the pack in the one-mile-long course to break four minutes for the third year in a row.  He set an amazing new course record of 3:58.  Behind Levins were Adam Commandeur, Scott Commandeur, Robin Poirier, Neil Holm, Vince Brotherston, Kyle Johnson, and Brad Crowe, all finishing under 5 minutes.  Leading the ladies, Elizabeth Butler finished 10^th overall, in a time of 5:16. 

Top 3 age category finishers were:

Over 20 males:  Cam Levins  3:58; Robin Poirier  4:34;  Neil Holm  4:35

Over 20 females:  Elizabeth Butler  5:16; Elita Rohn  5:20; Karen Argyle  6:09

15-19 males:  Adam Commandeur  4:27; Scott Commandeur  4:29;  Kyle Johnson  4:54

15-19 females:   Grace Howard  6:03;  Michaela Ashlee  6:19;  Gabriela Kosonen

10-14 males:  Peter Gledhill  5:31;  Carson Moyers  5:32;  Torin Halvorson  5:37

10-14 females:  Jessica Kosonen  5:44;  Chloe Gummer  5:51;  Jordyn Piercy  5:53

0-9 males:  Stephen Lamon;  Joshua Kalhous;  Luke Yeo

0-9 females:  Lauren Lineger;  Jamie Grinder;  Sequoia Bridges

 

The Comox Valley Road Runners thank event sponsors, including the City of Courtenay and the  July 1^st Committee, the Comox Valley Cycling Club, Extreme Runners , Jim Smiley at ReMax/Ocean Pacific Realty, Quality Foods, and Thrifty Foods.  The next local road race is the Nautical Days 4-Miler on BC Day (Aug. 1) in Comox.  Please go to http://cvrr.ca for more info.

For more information: Pictures

Breaking News - Aerobic & Lactate Threshold Testing

The Peak group may be available to return to the Comox Valley to do testing on Aug 20,21 for any who are interested.

This is a great opportunity to test your current level of fitness and to set training zones to maximize the benefit of your training for the upcoming season. For those who have tested before, you can see how your recent training has changed your zones, always excellent feedback.

 I don't think there is any change in the cost, $135 for Aerobic Threshold and Lactate Thresholds and $ 180 for full testing which also includes VO2max testing. The testing will be on Aug 20 and the review/consultation will be Aug 21 am.

Let me know as soon as possible if you are interested so I can finalize arrangements.

Happy training.
Wayne Crowe, Club President

Breaking News - LOCALS SHINE IN GUTBUSTER NUMBER THREE

Fifteen Comox Valley Road Runners journeyed to Ladysmith to race the third of the Frontrunner's Gutbuster Trail Running Series. The Holland Creek Trail challenged even the toughest of runners with both a 16 K Long Course and a 9 K “Short Course”. With steep uphills and treacherous downhills winding through rocky faces and soul sucking mud, only the strongest survived.

The overall winners of the Long Course were Shawn Nelson in 1:10:15 and Cara Wakely in 1:17:49. Brad Crowe showed his strength and determination, finishing as the top CVRR runner in 1:19:55, tenth overall (4th M30-39).  He was dueling with Vince Brotherston, the usual top dog, until Vince had an unfortunate introduction to a tree. He managed to pick himself up and still had the fortitude to continue his race, eventually finishing in eleventh place overall (2nd M40-49). Terry Nielsen, feeling the pain of this grueling race, survived to finish as the third place CVRR runner, twenty first overall (4th M40-49). Next was Chris Winkelar who continued to move up the ranks with an exceptional race, finishing twenty ninth overall (6th M40-49). Veteran Marguerite Mason returned to the racing scene as the top CVRR woman, placing first in F50-59. Strong performances were also turned in by Dominic Nadeau (1st M16-19), John Ingram (2nd M60-69), Marion Bryan (5th F30-39) and Lisa Perry (4th F40-49). Louis Nadeau was an inspiration to all, conquering the course in 2:06:29.

The Short Course winners were Shelby Drope (38:23) and Davita Burraves (47:07). CVRR were also well represented here with Chris Perry as the first local finisher in 49:02, eleventh overall (3rd M 40-49). He was followed closely by Jelke Hoelstra (2nd M50-59). Laura Wyatt was the first woman CVRR member on the Short Course finishing first in the F 50-59 age group. Mary Anne Rolfe was close behind with a fourth place in the F 50-59 group.

Special recognition has to go to Jamie Kantor who showed the true value of sportsmanship by sacrificing his own goals to assist an unidentified fellow runner who had collapsed on the course. Jamie   was eventually able to complete his race and still finished fifth in the very competitive M40-49 group.  Chris Perry also returned to the scene to give first aid until the ambulance arrived.

The next race in the Frontrunner's Gutbuster Trail Series is planned for July 23 on Mount Washington. With a heavy snow pack still existing please look for an announcement regarding the status of the race closer to that date.

If you want to run for fun, health, or competition, CVRR wants to run with you. Check out their web site at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Summer Solstice, Tuesday, June 21st

Summer Solstice BBQ. & Potluck @ 'The Track'
Rain or Shine
Tuesday June 21, 2011
6:30 p.m.

Celebrate the longest day of the year at the annual CVRR Summer Solstice Potluck at the Vanier Track. Join 'The Track' gang and coach Kathy in their Tuesday night track session then celebrate the beginning of summer with a potluck dinner.
A Family Affair
The Summer Solstice BBQ Potluck is open to all members and their families. Everyone is asked to bring: a chair or blanket, your own plate and eating utensils, cup/glass, beverage, something to put on the BBQ and something to share. Condiments will be supplied by the club.

Track workout: 5:00p.m. - 6:00p.m.
Sam will have the BBQ fired up and ready to go for 6:30p.m.
See you at 'The Track'

2011 Races - KUSAM KLIMB CANCELLED!!

As you can see in the attached picture (taken by a local Klimber on Saturday), there is an ominous-looking cornice perched at the top of Mt. H'Kusam which poses a SERIOUS avalanche danger. The Kusam Klimb committee worked tirelessly over the weekend with avalanche control experts to try and resolve the issue. Un...fortunately, this was not possible.

The safety of our Klimbers is our Number One priority. As a result -- and with heavy hearts -- we advise we must cancel this year's Kusam Klimb.

We will process refunds for registration fees as soon as humanly possible. For those who purchased dinner and/or dance tickets, refunds will be processed within the next 24 hours.

We sincerely regret the inconvenience and disappointment that this will cause our loyal Klimbers. We hope to see you at next year's Kusam Klimb, which will be held on Saturday, June 23, 2012.

2011 Races - Westwood Lake Gutbuster

The second Gutbuster trail race of the season was held under beautiful sunny skies at Westwood Lake in Nanaimo. There is however, no perfect temperature to run a grueling half marathon or 12.5 Km race through creeks, a mud pit, a tunnel and up and down insanely steep rocky terrain.
CVRR posted incredible times in the long course. First CVRR male was up and comer Dominick Nadeau, winning the under 19 age group in a time of 2:16:03. He was followed closely by veteran trail runner John Ingram who was first in the 60 plus age group with a time of 2:17:46. First female CVRR was Lisa Perry who was second in the (F40 -49) division with a time of 2:40:46. Vee Dion followed along with Leo Rolfe & Louis Nadeau.
In the short course, Chris Perry was the first CVRR with a time of 1:27:57.
Marion Bryan,  the first female CVRR with a time of 1:29:44 also placed first in the (F30-39) category.
Mark Arsenault was next, followed by Mary Ann Rolfe who placed first in the (F50-59) category. CVRR newcomer, Peggy Chambers made an amazing debut placing first in the F60 plus age group with a time of 2:06:03.
Some muddy, sweatty RoadRunners completed their run with a well deserved, but chilly, dip in Westwood Lake. A wonderful way to end an exhausting day.
 The next Gutbuster race, the third of the season, will be at Holland Creek Trail in Ladysmith on June 26th. This is a new venue in the series and will offfer a 9 Km. short course as well as a 16 km. long one! Everyone is welcome to participate. Get out your muddy shoes and give it a go!
 

2011 Races - Texada Island Marathon & Half Marathon

The first ever marathon and half marathon on Texada Island.
It is being put on by Avid Fitness in Powell River.
More info is at www.avidfitness.ca
run is Sunday Aug 28th.

Breaking News - Volunteers Needed

Volunteers Needed

for

5th St. Mile Race - July 1

A fun family event that starts at the corner of Woods and 5th St. and runs a mile down 5th St. to end at Simms Park. 

Race starts at 10:00 a.m. sharp.

Many thanks to the volunteers that have come forward to help out this year.

Volunteers still needed are marshals and at the finish line area.

Time required: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

please contact:

Leslie Dargie - marshals - alpine4life2@yahoo.ca

  Kate Brotherston - finish line area - walkonwater@telus.net

 Andrea Prager - aprager@thebrain.ca

Breaking News - 5th Street Mile

Friday, July 1st: 5th Street Mile – Canada Day!

Registration (Woods & 5th) - 9:00 am

Race Starts at 10:00 am

Breaking News - “RUN4FUN” Relay Races Wrap-up Third Great Year of Junior Running

   

Several young runners showed the fruits of their training as they “gutted-it-out” during relays and running games during the final session of “RUN4FUN”, held at the Vanier Track Monday night. This was the third season for the junior running development program organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) and held at various great running locations around the Comox Valley. This year’s program had 30 young athletes from 8 to 14 years of age taking part.

   The RUN4FUN program focuses on making running fun for all the kids and lets them know they can use running to explore the world and make fitness a part of their everyday lives. Youth ages 8 to 14 met at different running venues around the Comox Valley where they competed in a “Poker Run” at Seal Bay, ran the trails along Nymph Falls and the beaches of Goose Spit. They learned about sports injuries and nutrition from Dr. Wayne Crowe and met with Lene Curts, owner of Extreme Runners, to learn the importance of proper running equipment. At the finale, Nick Blackburn, an up-and-coming track star and a recent winner of the CVRR Junior Development Grant, motivated the young runners with a peptalk before the relays got underway. After the relays, awards were handed out to those runners who logged more than a marathon (42km) of training mileage during the course.

   Co-coaches Robyn Dicesare and Eric Martinat loved working with the enthusiastic kids and watching them progress during the course. 

  Look for the “RUN4FUN” program again next spring after March break. The CVRR would like to thank the sponsors of RUN4FUN: Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty, Extreme Runners, SwagPromo.com, and Hot Chocolates of Courtenay. Congratulations to all the participants.

For more info on local running see the CVRR website at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Evolution Running

Some of you may have heard of 'Evolution Running.'  Below are some highlights of this technique. I have asked Shannon Jones who has a DVD and some experience on this technique if she would show the DVD and lead a discussion on the principles of evolution running.
Date and time: Sunday, June 5 at 2 pm and perhaps through to 5:00 pm depending on interest.
Right now I am looking for interest and depending on what that interest is we will find an appropriate location.  Thinking right now of a home with a large screen TV!
So please get back to me asap and I will track interest as names come in and get back to you.
Many thanks to Shannon for agreeing to doing this.
Roz bobroz@shaw.ca

 Evolution Running® is a system for teaching runners efficient and injury-reducing techniques.

    Expend less energy to run fast

    Begin using your body’s natural shock absorption

    Distribute running workload optimally to avoid fatigue in any one muscle group

    Minimize vertical displacement

    Avoid “braking” with each step

    Utilize elastic recoil for “free speed”

RUN4FUN - New Run4Fun photos available

Click on Run4Fun on the right & go to 2011 Pictures

Breaking News - Gutbuster 001

Gutbuster 1 Pictures and Results are now available.

Click Gutbuster Trail Running Series at left and follow the links.

Breaking News - CVRR Spring Breakfast Run

Seal Bay Park
Saturday May 21, 2011
Road runners join the Saturday Trail Group
for a run through beautiful Seal Bay Park. Immediately
after the run we're heading to Becky's Bakery for breakfast.
Meet at the Seal Bay parking lot at 8:45 a.m. or carpool from
Extreme Runners – last car leaves at 8:30a.m.
Please RSVP so we can give Becky's a heads-up on numbers.
lynrobson@telus.net
(Muffin &coffee about $3.00 or full breakfast $10.00)
Becky's Bakery – 2144 Anderton Road, Comox on the way to the Little River Ferry

Breaking News - Cougar Sighting - Seal Bay Park

There has been a sighting of a pair of relatively young cougars near Seal Bay Park, as well as signs of deer carcasses. So if you're running or walking in the vicinity please take the appropriate precautions.
 
See below for a link on preventing cougar attacks
 
 
http://www.suite101.com/content/preventing-cougar-attacks-a109713

Breaking News - Run Clinic T-shirts

Run Clinic T-shirts are now available for pickup at Ann Sew Tailoring Services, 339 - 6th St, Store Hours 10am - 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

If you have not got your shirt yet, drop by to pick it up. A list of names and sizes is available.

Breaking News - Fitness Magazine Swap

After reading your favourite fitness/running/tri magazine you can drop it by AnnSew Tailoring Services
339 - 6th St
Store Hours 10am - 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

And pick up one that you haven't read yet. (Hence saving trees) I always hate seeing a perfectly good magazine go into the recycling bin after reading it cover to cover.
It will be self 'policing'. Magazines should not be older than 18 -24 months and relate to living a fit and healthy life. If there is a specific article you would like to keep, there is a photocopier in the store.

Hope this is a useful service that's saves trees and a few dollars.

Breaking News - CVRR Complete Late Season Charge to Second Place.

Pictures

At 10:20 am last Sunday morning things did not look good for Comox Valley Road Runners attempt to capture second place in the finale of the Island Series Road Races. Ten key members were resting up in Boston for Monday’s marathon, and the car pool had just started moving through the road closure on the Malahat courtesy of the diesel fuel truck accident on the Malahat on Saturday night. The starting line in Sooke was still 45 minutes away, with a scheduled start time of 11:00 am. Fortunately, the organisers delayed the start of the race by 15 minutes, and allowed a second wave of latecomers from up Island to start 30 minutes later. In the final analysis, a spirited group of 31 Comox Valley Road Runners outscored Bastion Running Club of Nanaimo by more than enough. Top 10 age group finishes, 23 of them, were once again the key, as CVRR overcame Bastion 426-264, to finish 80 points ahead of the Harbour City club in the final standings. This is the first time the club has claimed second place in the 29 year history of the Island Series.
Vince Brotherston (M45-49, 8th overall) and Angela Plamondon (F45-49, 86th overall) led the way for the Valley Crew once again, both finishing second in their age group. Other top 3 age group finishers were Mary Bridges (1st, F40-44), Roger Plamondon  (2nd, M50-54), Marion Bryan (2nd, F35-39), Mary Ann Rolfe (2nd, F55-59) and Diane Palmason (2nd, F70-74). A special mention must be made of 80+ year old Ernie Black, who has not run a road race in at least 10 years. He came out to help fill in for missing Boston bound runners and finished 2nd in the M80-99 group to the cheers of waiting team members, picking up 19 points for his sterling pavement pounding effort. Six other  runners answered the call to run their first race of the season, Linda Munro (14 points), Janice McCarthy (11), Dominick Nadeau (16), Don Blacklock (6), Tim Croft (9), and Ashley Close, running her first ever road race, with 17 points. The 92 points scored by the season’s first timers were enough to put CVRR over the top.
The wait after the race finish for the awards ceremony was drawn out with the complications at the start. Tension mounted after the individual awards, and preparations began for the Series awards. First were the team awards. There was silence as Bastion were announced as third place finishers, and one could feel the energy mounting as we waited. With the announcement of “2nd Place, Comox Valley Road Runners,” a HUGE cheer broke out, and the team rose as one to acknowledge a fine joint effort. Well done, and a special thank you to all those who, over the last 3 months, made this possible.
The focus now shifts to the CVRR trail runners with the first race in the 4 race summer Gutbuster Trail Running Series scheduled for Mt. Tzouhalem in Ladysmith on May 7th. For more information on this and other CVRR related news go to cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - CVRR Boston Times

Brad Crowe        3;04;52

Wayne Crowe     3;08;30

Roz Smith           3;32;28

Danny Keyes       3;43;34

Cheryl Eldridge     3;46;57

Janet Green         3;53;12

Karen Sibley         3;59;52

Robyn Dicesare     4;00;11

Korky Richardson   4;28;59

Karen Tobacca       4;49;47

Breaking News - ROAD RUNNERS DOMINATE MERVILLE 15 K

Photos

Comox Valley Road Runners were once again the top club at the latest race in the Vancouver Island Road Race Series held in Merville. They dominated the race, scoring 522 points compared to the second place Victoria Prairie Inn Harrier's team who scored 373 points. A total of 38 CVRR members competed, totalling 26 top ten finishes. Vince Brotherston continued to lead the local harriers finishing eighth overall and second in  the M45-49 age group in a time of 54:49. Angela Plamondon was the fastest female club member and first in the F45-49 age group, finishing in 1:04:41. Five other CVRR members finished at the top of their age group including Diane Palmason F70-74, Roz Smith F60-64, Mary Bridges F40-44, Les Disher M60-64 and Wayne Crowe M55-59.
Outstanding performances were turned in by a number of Road Runners. Mark Arsenault showed that his excellent training is paying off by setting a huge personal best in his race. Andrea Prager also made an amazing breakthrough with a personal best and is on track to do well in the upcoming Vancouver Marathon. Other personal bests in this race included Brad Crowe, Vi Dion, Chris Perry, Zina Richmond, Karen Weller and Mary Anne Rolfe. There were many other strong performances for the club in the Merville race.  For a complete list of CVRR results go to the web site at CVRR.ca. The final race of the Island Series takes place in two weeks in Sooke. The club will be pushing hard to move into second place overall in the team standings.

Breaking News - Merville 15k Results - 2012

The Merville 15km race , hosted by the River Runners of Campbell River, drew 283 runners from across Vancouver Island and beyond  on April Fools Day. Of  the 28 Comox Valley Road Runners who participated, most placed in the top ten in their age category. Eleven CVRR runners finished with a medal.   First place medals were awarded to Angela Plamondon,  and Roslyn Smith.  Roslyn finished within three seconds of the race record for her age category.  Other first  place age category medals were won by Vince Brotherstone ( who was also the fastest masters ),  and Wayne Crowe .  Second place medals were accepted by Brad Crowe , who out sprinted his competition to the finish line, Louise Martel, Peter Moore, and Karen Weller. Third place medals were awarded to age category winners Chris Winkelar, Kathy Rung (CVRR coach), Mary Ann Rolfe and Angelica Lauzon.
This year the Vancouver Island Running Association with Race Day Timing is promoting a new and exciting ‘race within a race’ for all Frontrunner Island Series Races. The fastest master to sprint the last 100 meters to the finish line is recognized with a special jersey. Louise Martel happily took home the yellow jersey in that category in addition to her 2nd place finish. 
The CVRR have a solid 2nd place standing as the runners prepare to head south to Victoria  for the 8th and final race in the Frontrunner’s Island Race Series. The Sooke River Trail and Road Running Club is sponsoring a 10 km road race on April 15th. 
 For more information about the Comox Valley Road Runners see http://www.cvrr.ca/

For more information: Results

Breaking News - Annual Snowshoe, Potluck & Games!

Date: Saturday, April 9th

We'll carpool from the Vanier pool at ~ 12:30pm. Deb Kitchener has agreed to lead the group for a snowshoe adventure and will be deciding where we'll be heading into the snowy wilderness. We'll go out for a couple of hours, with a snack & refreshment break, so bring along some munchies and a hot drink.

The potluck will begin at approx 6pm. The venue has changed this year and will be held at my house. (2246 Lambert Drive, Courtenay)

Games to follow. It's always a lot of fun!!!!!

Please RSVP To Karen at karen.weller@yahoo.ca

Thanks Deb for offering to lead the pack!!

Breaking News - Run Clinic 5k Race Results

5k Race Results from the Run Clinic Finale are now available.

Click on Annual Run Clinic at right to get detailed results.

Congratulations to all 82 runners who finished!

Breaking News - Road Runners Making Running Fun for Kids

    Making sport fun is the key to keeping kids active. That’s the drive behind the Comox Valley Road Runners “Run4Fun” Junior Running Development Program that kicks off this coming Monday, March 28th, at the Vanier Track. Run4Fun is a fun-based program that gets kids between 8 and 14 years outside and doing running based activities for an hour a week for 8 weeks. This is the 4th year of the program and it’s been a great success.

   “Adults go out and run for a number of reasons,” Says program director Robyn Dicesare, “but kids, they just want to be with their friends and have fun, and that’s the goal of our program, to have fun!”. The sessions include brief talks by experts on good eating and how not to get hurt and are held at several cool running locations throughout the Comox Valley. One of the sessions even ends at a Booster Juice for a well-deserved treat that comes with info on the importance of health choices.

   You can register your child at Extreme Runners on 5th St., at the CRA at Lewis Park or show up at the Vanier Track just before 5pm on March 28th. Cost for the 8 week program is $25.00 and includes a t-shirt, water bottle and a Run4Fun training log. The program is organized by the CVRR and sponsored by Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty who graciously donated $300.00 to Run4Fun in support of youth sport. The program is also sponsored by Extreme Runners and Swag Promotional Ltd. Check out www.CVRR.ca or contact Robyn directly at robyndicesare@gmail.com.

Breaking News - SIMON WHITFIELD STRIKES FOR GOLD AT THE COMOX VALLEY HALF MARATHON

FANTASTIC!!!!!! That is the only way to describe this year's Comox Valley Half Marathon. Spectators witnessed one of the strongest  fields in the entire country as Olympian Simon Whitfield showed why he is a gold medalist by outsprinting Victoria's Jim Finlayson to the line with a winning time of 1:06:23. They were followed closely by home town hero Jerry Ziak who ran a very strong 1:06:36. Next were National Triathalon team member Kyle Jones in 1:07:35 and  former Olympian John Brown in a Master's course record of 1:07:37. The women's race was just as exciting with overall winner Jen Mclean outlasting Care Wakely, winning by only three seconds, with a time of 1:21:43. Women's Master's winner was Jane Campbell Arnold in a time of 1:33:05.

Comox Valley Road Runners were the top club in this prestigious event and are closing in on the Nanaimo Bastion team for second place overall in the Island Race Series. Road Runners placed first overall in several age groups and had 28 top ten finishes. Roz Smith continued her winning ways in the F60-64 age group. Mary Bridges showed her hard training is paying off with first in the F40-45 age group. Les Disher ran a very strong race winning the M60-64 category with a PR of 1:27:43. Wayne Crowe (Extreme Runners/Asics)  won the M55-59 age group in an excellent time of 1:22:10 and has now moved into the Series lead in this age group.

Other CVRR racers reaching the podium included Vince Brotherston, 3/42, M45-49 and first CVRR runner in 1:20:08. Race director  Brad Crowe managed to get away from his duties long enough to run  an exceptional PR of 1:21:31 placing placing 4/20, M30-34. He is looking like he is well on track for an excellent time in the upcoming Boston Marathon. Terry Nielsen battled hard to finish in a time of 1:24:06, 5/42 M45-49. New club member Patrick Clair put in a very impressive showing of 1:26:41, 5/27 M25-29. Ken Richardson, M65-69 and Janet Green, F55-59 both earned bronze medals with fast runs in very competitive age groups. For a complete listing of CVRR results look under results in the sports section.

Race Director Brad Crowe expressed a special thanks to the many volunteers who helped make this race a huge success.  He also thanked the hundreds of fans who came out to cheer on the athletes. A list of the very generous sponsors who supported this event can be found on the CVRR website at www.cvrr.ca.

Next up for the Island Road Race Series is another popular local event, the Merville 15 K on April 2. See you there!

Photos

Bruce Johnstone's Photo Album I - All Athletes

Bruce Johnstone's Photo Album II - All Athletes

CVRR Athletes

 

 

Breaking News - Run Clinic 5k Photos available on Photobucket

Saturday's Run Clinic 5k photos have been posted to photobucket. Click on the link below to enjoy.

For more information: Get Pictures

Breaking News - Awesome CVRR!

Comox Valley Half Results now available - Click Island Series at left.

50 Finishers out of 504 total.

4 Age Group 1st Place Finishes.

28 Top Ten Finishes.

Most Club Points.

Breaking News - 5k Run Clinic Pictures Available

Run Clinic 5k Pictures are now posted.

Click on Pictures & then click on category & find 2011 Run Clinic 5k about halfway down.

Breaking News - Comox Valley Road Runners -- Saving trees.

Fitness Magazine Swap

After reading your favourite fitness/running/tri magazine you can drop it by AnnSew Tailoring Services
339 - 6th St
Store Hours  10am - 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

And pick up one that you haven't read yet. (Hence saving trees)  I always hate seeing a perfectly good magazine go into the recycling bin after reading it cover to cover.
It will be self 'policing'.  Magazines should not be older than 18 -24 months and relate to living a fit and healthy life.  If there is a specific article you would like to keep, there is a photocopier in the store.

Hope this is a useful service that's saves trees and a few dollars.

PS. Don't forget to bring your own mug to Race Weekend!

Breaking News - Star Runners Scheduled to Race Comox Valley Half Marathon This Weekend

   The annual Comox Valley half Marathon, set to run this Sunday Morning at 11am from the Florence Filberg Center, is going to have some very fast company this year. The race, part of the Vancouver Island Road Race Series and the Timex Race Series, has had a history of fast performers but this year will be special. Race director Brad Crowe said, “I received an e-mail from Olympian Jon Brown who indicated that he, Olympic triathlon Gold and Silver medalist Simon Whitfield, Jim Finlayson and Kyle Jones would be coming to the race this weekend. We’re totally stoked!”

   Brown, who raced to a Comox Valley Half Marathon course record of 1 hour and 3 minutes in 2005, is a 3 time Olympian who placed 4th in the Olympic Marathons in both Sydney and Athens. He lives in Victoria and also coaches triathlete Kyle Jones, an alternate on the Canada’s 2008 Bejing Olympic Triathlon team and whose sights are set on the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Jim Finlayson has been setting the Vancouver Island Race series on fire with wins so far this year at the Pioneer 8k, the Cedar 12k and the Bazan Bay 5k road races.

   The Half Marathon race route is an out-and-back course that begins in front of the Filberg Centre on Anderton Rd. at 11am (walkers will begin at 10am) and heads out Condensory, turns right on Piercy then left on Dove Creek Road. The racers will continue across Condensory Rd. again until they get to the halfway point at 10.5km. The racers will turn around and take the same route back to finish at the Filberg. Volunteers will traffic vests and signs will be at key intersections directing traffic and drivers are asked to be patient, drive carefully and obey the directions of the volunteers. The race is part of the CVRR’s race weekend that starts with an open 5k run that is also the CVRR Run Clinic’s 5k wrap-up on Saturday at 9am from the Filberg Center.

   Raceday registration for both races is available at the Filberg Center. For more information please go to the CVRR website at www.cvrr.ca. Come out and cheer on these amazing runners.

Breaking News - CVRR’s Race Weekend is Only Days Away

     This coming weekend, two major running events will be taking place on the roads in Courtenay. Seasoned running veterans and many new to the sport, will race against the clock, hundreds of other runners and, most importantly, against themselves in the CVRR’s Run Clinic 5k grand finale, and the Comox Valley Half-Marathon.

    Firstly, on Saturday morning, the annual Run Clinic, organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners, wraps up 10 weeks of successful training with a 5km fun run. The Clinic participants have worked hard in rain and shine and are ready to put their bodies and minds to the test. New this year, the 5km run is open to the public. Runners will start and finish in front of the Florence Filberg Centre and be cheered on by many volunteers and family members along the way. The run gets underway at 9am at the Filberg at the Anderton Rd. entrance and heads out Condensory Rd., then back to the Filberg Center. The run is free for Clinic participants and only $5.00 for members of the public who want to run the 5km course. Come out take part or to cheer on these dedicated runners who have put in so much effort to run in this finale.

    Second is the biggest event on the CVRR’s race calendar, the Comox Valley Half-Marathon. The race is set to start on Sunday morning at 11am in front of the Florence Filberg Centre on Anderton Rd. in Courtenay. Part of the Vancouver Island Race Series and also part of the popular Timex Race Series, the Comox Valley Half-Marathon has seen some amazing competitors over its many years in existence. Race director Brad Crowe and a small army of community volunteers will be out to ensure the hundreds of runners have a great race. Over the years, the race has seen some incredible champions including Olympian Jon Brown who ran one of the fastest times in Canada in 2005 of
1hr 3 minutes for 21.1km. The woman’s record is held by Stephanie Andrews  in 1hr 16 minutes run in 1998. The Comox Valley Half-Marathon, which had a record number of entries last year, gives the CVRR the opportunity to give to local charities through funds raised at the race. In 2011, the CVRR has chosen the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition and the Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society as the race charities.

   The ½ Marathon race route is an out-and-back course that begins on Anderton Rd. at 11am (walkers will begin at 10am) in front of the Filberg Centre and heads out on a gradual uphill route until they get to the halfway point at 10.5km. The racers will turn around and fly back down the same route back to finish at the Filberg. The course is fast and the after-race festivities are among the best of the Vancouver Island Race Series.

 For more information please go to the CVRR website at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Dirty Duo News

A few CVRR's went travelling this weekend and dirtied themselves at the Dirty Duo trail event in the Lynn Canyon wilderness of North Vancouver.
Robyn Dicesare, Lene Curts, Cathy Livesy, Karen Sibley and Kim Campbell entered the 25K and Leslie and Crystal Dargie took on the 50K.  Crystal and Leslie started at 7:30 a.m., their first half (2 loop course) the rain held off and it was almost balmy out - the 2nd half got rainy and cold!  The 25K started at 11:00 a.m. so they got the rain on and off throughout.  The terrain was relentless; 50 meters to 500 meters and many ups and downs in between.  The footing was mainly wet, soupy mud held together with rocks and roots.  The top was packed snow, frozen ice/snow with a layer of water on top - yum. 
Robyn won the free stay at the Holiday Inn so she and Karen enjoyed 2 nights of relaxation while the rest of us hurriedly showered off 6 kg of mud, oozed our poor bodies in to the hottub for a short while then raced to the 5pm Ferry! 
results;
Robyn - 3:18
Cathy - 3:27
Lene - 3:53
Karen...got some bad directions and ended up back at the start after only 2 hours
Kim... sprained her ankle and managed to walk her way out of the bush
Crystal and Leslie...7:31

Breaking News - Gutbuster Series Registration Now Open

Registration is now open for the 2011 GutBuster Trail Running Series!  Register for the full series in either the short course or long course and receive a $20 GC to Frontrunners as well as a FREE pair of TNF moisture wicking running socks.  Limited to the first 50 registrants in both events.
 
We have 4 exciting events for you this year in Duncan, Ladysmith, Nanaimo and Courtenay, including a new course on the Holland Creek Trails in Ladysmith on June 26th. 
 
The season is set to kick off on May 7th at Mt Tzouhalem.
 
Happy Running,

Mark Nelson | Race Director
GutBuster Trail Running Series
www.gutbustertrailrun.com

Breaking News - Bazan Bay 5k, Sidney

CVRR gains 1 point on 2nd place Bastion in team standings.

Mary Bridges leads ladies home.

Crowe, the younger, holds off Terry Nielsen for 2nd behind Vince Brotherston.

For more information: CVRR Results

Breaking News - CVRR offering Youth Training Grants for Third Year

    The Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) are excited to announce annual selection is open for training grants to assist junior runners from the Comox Valley in achieving their goals. This year, the CVRR will be offering two $300 grants that will be directed to a qualified applicant under the age of 19 who is competing in running, cross country, triathlon or track running events at a regional, provincial, or national level. Applicants must be a member of a running club, association or school team and/or entrant in a regional, provincial or national competition including school athletic competitions. This is the second year the CVRR has offered a training grant and has increased the amount and number of grants since the inaugural grant was offered last year.
 
     CVRR is a non-profit club established in 1980 with a mandate to promote running and healthy lifestyle in our community. It has been home to hundreds of runners over the years and continues to service the running community with events, training assistance, support and activities. The CVRR has also been a consistent contributor to many local charitable and community associations through donation, participation and loan of services or gear. Major annual events include:  the Comox Valley Half Marathon each March, the 5k Run Clinics each winter, the Fifth St. Mile starting off the July 1st parade, the Comox Nautical Days 4 Miler, and the annual Jingle Bell Run in December to benefit the local food bank.
 
     It is with great pride that we began reaching out to youth interested in running, with the start of the Run4Fun youth clinics in 2008. These programs have become very popular and the offering of youth training grants is a natural extension of that commitment by the club. More details about the grant and the qualifying criteria as well as an application form can be found at Extreme Runners on 5th St., by contacting club president Wayne Crowe 250-339-7450 ws_crowe@hotmail.com or by going to www.cvrr.ca. Applications for the 2011 grant must be submitted by March 31st, 2011.

For more information: Guidelines & ApplicationForm

Breaking News - POST 1/2 MARATHON CELEBRATION

22 Seats have been reserved for 6 P.M. at the Atlas Cafe  for the annual POST 1/2 MARATHON CELEBRATION on Sunday, March 20th.

This get together is open to racers, volunteers & significant others! It's a great opportunity for all to get together & swap stories about CVRR's most action packed & intense event of the year.

       Please RSVP Karen at karen.weller@yahoo.ca to claim a seat.       To date, ~ 5 spots have been reserved.

Breaking News - May 15 – Oceanside 10K Running Race – Parksville

The Oceanside Running Club Association (ORCA) is hosting the 2011 Oceanside 10K Running Race (“the old Island Series Oceanside 10K”) on Sunday, May 15th at 11:00 a.m.

The race starts at the Parksville Curling Club (Parksville Community Park) and runs through beautiful Rathtrevor Beach Park! With ocean views, a mostly flat loop and enthusiastic volunteers, this run is an energizing summer sun kick off! The course is BC Athletics certified (BC-2003-007-BDC).
The cost is $20.00 and includes awards for the top three finishers in 5 age categories, draw prizes, post-event refreshments, and smiles from our volunteers!

Oceanside 10K Race
Sunday May 15, 2011  - Parksville BC
Location: Parksville Curling Club - 11: am Start
Contact: Barry Carr barrycarr@telus.net
Website www.orcarunning.ca

Breaking News - Hatley Castle 8-k

Small Contingent Retains 3rd.

Vince Brotherston Regains Bragging Rights over Terry Nielsen (41sec) with Crowe, the younger, 3rd (50sec).

For more information: Results

Breaking News - Run Clinic 5k Now Open to All

The 5k "graduation race" held on the last day of the CVRR's Run Clinic is now open to all interested in running a 5k on Saturday, March 19th.

For more information: More Details

Breaking News - Hello trail runners, mountain bikers and walkers in the NE Woods in Comox...

There is a public meeting to discuss the NE Woods on next Wednesday.  It would be great to have a large show of support from the Comox Valley Road Runners.  Please see the note and the link below for further information, 

See you there...!!!

The CVCS, a growing coalition of 17 local environmental and residents’ associations, invites the public to come out to Highland Secondary School (750 Pritchard Road, Comox) at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 23rd to learn about the strategy to protect the integrity of the Northeast Woods in Comox.

For more information: CV Conservation Strategy Website

Breaking News - Winners Span Generations at Cedar 12km Road Race

    The young and experienced shone like stars at last Sunday’s Cedar 12km Road Race, just south of Nanaimo. The hilly course is one of the most challenging in the 8 race Island Running Series and 32 Comox Valley runners were up to the challenge and brought home medals.

    Overall, 478 runners toed the start line and in the end Jim Finlayson of Victoria won the title in a course record 37:11. Care Wakely of Victoria was the first woman in 45:17. From the Comox Valley, up-and-coming star, 12 year old Emily Keyes won in the under 15 girls, in a great time of 59:59. Continuing her winning ways, Diane Palmason won the F70-74 years division. Angela Plamondon also finished first in the F45-49 group. Kathy Rung scored 2nd place in the F35-39 division and Mary Ann Rolfe grabbed 3rd in the F55-59 section.

    On the men’s side, Terry Neilson was the fastest Comox Valley Road Runner finishing in 45:19 and only 8 seconds ahead of fellow CVRR Vince Brotherston. Keith Wakelin finished 2nd in the M50-54 division followed by Roger Plamondon in 4th in the same group. Brad Crowe scored 4th in the men’s 30-34 division.

   The Comox Valley Road Runners currently stand in 3rd place amongst the 83 identified clubs in the Island Running series and hope to make a push towards 2nd as the series continues. The fourth race in the eight race series is the hilly Hatley Castle 8km in Victoria on Feb 20st. The big event here in the Comox Valley will be race weekend on the 19th and 20th of March when the Learn to Run 5K Clinic has it’s grand finale 5K run on Saturday followed by the longest race in the Island Series, the Comox Valley Half-Marathon on Sunday morning. Check out www.CVRR.ca for full results and information about local races.

Breaking News - VALENTINES AT TRACK

Breaking News - Cedar 12-k

Ladies Grab another 3 firsts.

Terry Nielsen holds off fast closing Vince Brotherston for CVRR bragging rights.

Top 10 finishes from 19 of 32 runners solidifies CVRR hold on 3rd place in Club Standings.

Overall Results

For more information: CVRR Results

Breaking News - Snow Flies at Yeti Snowshoe Race Mount Washington

   The Annual Yeti Snowshoe Race, part of a series that’s gaining popularity across BC, saw some 250 snowshoers, some out to win and some out for just a good time, take on challenging 5km and 10km courses at Mount Washington Resort last Saturday January 29^th. With tons of snow and fog in the air, the starting horn sounded and the thrashing hoard of runners, with snow flying in all directions, disappeared into the grey mist that enveloped the hill. This year’s Yeti saw serious athletes mixed with fun teams dressed up as “Snow Queens” and others sporting pink wigs or kitty-cat costumes in what has become a “must-do” event for many local outdoor enthusiasts. A new duathalon style event was added to the roster this year combining XC skiing and snowshoeing. Snowshoe runners came from the mainland and Victoria to compete while champion adventure athlete Dave Norona kept the spectators laughing with his comedic work on the microphone. Several Comox Valley teams took part with the team from Extreme Runners taking several top spots.

 

   In the 5km Event, Steven Spiers of Shorerunners won in 25:25. The first woman was Nancy Fedoruk in 29:24 The teams from Extreme Runners came 2^nd in the team category with strong individual performances by Domenic Nadeau (1^st under 20yrs) and Mary Ann Rolfe (1^st 50-69yrs), Karin Holm and Robyn Dicesare finishing first and 2^nd in the 40-49yrs group, Bonnie Ervin (3rd 50-69yrs), Eric Martinat (2^nd 40-49yrs), Jack Campbell (2^nd 50-69yrs) and Louis Nadeau (3^rd 40-49yrs). The Extreme Runners Masters Women’s teams finished a strong 1^st to round out the day.

 

    In the 10km race, Shaun Nelson of Victoria won in a fast 48:02. The first woman was Tamsin Anstey in 51:02. The Extreme Runners team came 2^nd led home by Vince Brotherson in his first shoeshoe race in 5^th overall (1^st 40-49yrs), Margerite Mason won the 50-69 women’s group.  John Ingram was 2^nd 50-69yrs, Mary Bridges 2^nd 40-49yrs, and Cathy Clarke 2^nd 50-69yrs).

 

   In the grueling Duathlon event consisting of a 5km snowshoe, a 10km XC ski and another 5km snowshoe, Robert Lang won in 1:27:55 and Extreme Runner Genevieve Burdette was the first woman in 1:56:24.

 

The next race in the Yeti Series is at Whistler Olympic Park on February 11^th. For full results and information about The Yeti, go to: www.theyeti.ca

Breaking News - CVRR moves into 3rd While 100+ Attend Learn to Run 5k Clinic

    2011 has started off with a bang for the Comox Valley Road Running Club. It’s a busy time of year for the community running club with the Vancouver Island Road Race Series underway, the Learn to Run 5k Clinic in full swing and preparations underway for the Comox Valley race weekend in March. The pace is fast!

    In the Cobble Hill 10k road race, held this past Sunday in Cobble Hill, an excellent showing by local runners moved the club up to 3rd place in the highly competitive club standings on Vancouver Island. 700 runners toed the start-line and CVRR runners came home with fine results. Vince Brotherston lead the way home in 37:01 finishing 4th in the tough 45-49 division. He was followed by Terry Neilsen (6th in the 45-49) and Keith Wakelin (4th in the 50-54 division). On the women’s side Angela Plamondon led the club finishing in 42:19 followed by Roslyn Smith and Robyn Dicesare. Angela also won 1st in the Women’s 45-49 division with Roslyn Smith winning the 60-64 division and Diane Palmason winning the 70-74 group. MaryAnn Rolfe took 3rd in the Woman’s 50-54 set. Young Emily Keyes turned in an excellent performance in the female 15 and under division placing 2nd in 51:45. Her proud dad, Danny Keyes finished only 5 minutes ahead of his speedy daughter and will have to start looking over his shoulder from now on.

   In all, 24 CVRR members ran the race and accumulated enough points to move the club past Frontrunners Westshore and into 3rd place amongst Vancouver Island running clubs. The next race is the hilly Cedar 12k race on February 6th.

   Back in Courtenay, the CVRR’s Learn to Run 5k Clinic has had an exceptional turnout with over 100 participants taking part. This Saturday’s pre-run talk will feature Dave Nowak of Rehab in Motion and will be about injury prevention. The runners get to enjoy a post-run potluck breakfast. The clinic’s grand finale will be a 5km run on March 19th from the Filberg Center the day before the popular Comox Valley ½ Marathon.

  For information about the Learn to Run 5k Clinic, race results or upcoming races, go to www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Get Out There Magazine

The latest issue of Get Out There Magazine is now available. Check out all the great events listed for BC, Vancouver Island and right here in the Comox Valley.

For more information: Online Version

Breaking News - Cobble Hill 10-k

Vince Brotherston leads CVRR home again at Cobble Hill.

Ladies garner 3 first place finishes.

CVRR surge past Frontrunners Westshore into 3rd place in Club Standings.

For more information: Results

Breaking News - CVRR Midwinter Social

Cosmic Rock'n & Bowl'n!
February 25, 2011

 

Black lights! Strobes! Music! Take a break from running and try your hand at 5 pin bowling at Codes Country Lanes then gather for a light dinner at 'The Grotto' Tapas Bar.

Bowling is limited to 36 players so register early with the Social Committee to reserve your lane. Those who don't want to bowl but would like to join us for dinner meet at 'The Grotto' at 7:30pm.

Bowling:  5:45 – 7:00pm   cost $10.00 
 (3 games each)

Dinner:  7:30pm – tapas menu
(www.unionstreetgrill.ca)

RSVP: lynrobson@telus.net

*open to CVRR members and guests until Feb. 15th then an invitation will go out to the Saturday Trail Runners*

Breaking News - CVRR Runners Strong at 1st Island Series Race and Goofy Challenge

   The first running race of the Vancouver Island Race Series was held this past Sunday and a contingent of 24 Comox Valley Road Runners made the trek to Saanich to compete. The Pioneer 8km is part of the popular Timex Race Series and the first of 8 running races held throughout the Island. Cool temperatures and light winds made the conditions ideal for this fast course that saw over 700 participants and some of the fastest west coast runners strut their stuff. Vince Brotherston set the pace for the Comox Valley crowd with the fastest club time in 29:13 giving him 4th in the M45-49 Division. He was followed by Keith Wakelin in 30:06 (4th M50-54), Terry Neilsen in 30:14 and Brad Crowe in 30:25. The Valley women had strong showings led by Mary Bridges in 32:32 giving her 3rd in the F40-44 group. She was followed by Angela Plamondon, who won the F45-49 group in 33:20 and Roslyn Smith, who also won the F60-65 category in 36:11. Diane Palmason ran an excellent race to win the F70-74 division in 50:18.

  In the Club Standings, the Comox Valley Road Runners is in 3rd place (of the 41 registered running clubs) and only 12 points behind the Bastion Road Runners on Nanaimo. Finally, CVRR member Keith Wakelin had a stroke of good luck when he took home the grand draw prize of accommodation and dinner donated by the Beach Club Resort of Parksville. The next race in the Vancouver Island Race Series is the Cobble Hill 10k on January 23rd. One of the biggest events of the series is right here in Courtenay where the Comox Valley ½ Marathon is set to go on March 20th.

   Meanwhile, Valley runners Leslie and Crystal Dargie along with Shannon Lebeuf and her husband Claude, escaped the snowy Comox Valley to run the Goofy Challenge, part of the Disney Marathon weekend, in Florida this past weekend. The grueling event sees contestants run a ½ marathon (21.1km) on Saturday followed by the Disney Marathon (42.2km) on Sunday. All four rose to the challenge and can proudly display their medals. See www.CVRR.ca for complete details of club results and upcoming events.

Place Group   Name                  Time      
 36   M4549  Vince Brotherston  29:13                          

47   M5054  Keith Wakelin  30:06                                   

51   M4549 Terry Nielsen  30:14                                         

58   M3034 Brad Crowe   30:25

75   M4044 Chris Winkelaar  31:41                            

84   M4549 Steven Royer  31:56                                 

103   F4044 Mary Bridges  32:32                               

112   M4549 Eric Martinat  33:10

120   F45-59 Angela Plamondon  33:20

215   M5054 Hans Gane   36:03                                     

218   M4549 Mark Arsenault  36:09                           

221   F6064 Roslyn Smith  36:11                                  

236   F4549 Robyn Dicesare  36:46                               

359   F5054 Karen Weller  40:34                               

363   F5559 Mary Ann Rolfe  40:35                              

405   M6569 Jack Penfold  42:03                                

422   F2024 Lindsay Wakelin  42:21                                

433   M5559 Leo Rolfe   42:51                                

458   M7074 Adam Simpson  43:48                              

467   F2529 Caroline McGaw  44:17                                

484   F5054 Debra Rigler  44:54                                     

528   M7074 Tom Munro   47:01                              

562   M5054 Brian Balfe   48:36                                 

578   F7074 Diane Palmason  50:18  

Breaking News - Pioneer 8-k Road Race

Vince Brotherston led CVRR to a 4th place finish in  the team category at the Pioneer 8-k Road Race in Saanichton yesterday. With a supporting cast of 22 other runners helping to add to the total, CVRR is only 39 points out of 2nd place after 1 race.

Click on Island Series at left for Full results and CVRR individual results.

Breaking News - Fitness Knowledge A Focus of Running clinic

   The Learn to Run 5k Clinic, hosted by the Comox Valley Road Runners, starting Saturday January 15th at 8:30 am at the Native Son’s Hall in Courtenay, has again brought together an impressive line-up of guest speakers for the participants. Clinic co-organizer Leslie Dargie says of the program, “New Runners are taught the things they really need to know and those who already run are taught how they can up their game.” She adds, “You’ll learn training techniques like track running made fun and easy, hill workouts that make you stronger and how things like warm ups, cooling down, strides and intervals can easily added to help you achieve your goals.”

   Several professionals and experienced area athletes have been brought together to give the clinic participants a wealth of knowledge and experience they can apply to reach their own fitness goals. Topics covered include proper footwear, injury prevention, nutrition, strength and balance, flexibility and goal setting. Group run leaders will guide your workouts and two breakfast runs are part of the schedule.
  
   The Learn to Run 5k Clinic is 10 consecutive weeks and culminates with a grand finale 5 Km Run Event held on Saturday March 19th, the day before the Comox Valley ½ Marathon Race. The Clinic costs $50.00 and participants can register at the CRA, Extreme Runners on 5th St., or on the first day of the clinic at the lower level of the Native Son’s Hall on Cliffe Ave at 3rd St. in Courtenay at 8:30am.

    If you’ve got a desire to get in shape, have fun and want to be able to run 5 kilometers, then this clinic is for you! More info and full schedule at www.cvrr.ca or contact Steve Royer at sroyer6@telus.net.

Breaking News - BIKINI BLASTOFF

On Tuesday, December 28th, CVRR will be blasting off 2010 in style at the Tuesday Track Workout.
Coach Kathy will lead a modified track workout; there will be music, prizes, and excitement in the air as participants bid farewell to the final workout of '10 in CVRR style.

 

Come prepared to run comfortably and to STRIP DOWN  to your bathing suit for the final 400 metres! Get creative, get crazy but please keep the outfits G rated as this is a family affair.
Expect to laugh, be mildly shocked but above all expect to have a great time with fellow CVRR's as they celebrate the final workout of the year!!

Breaking News - Make Your New Year’s Resolution Now with the 2011 Learn to Run 5K Clinic

      We all know the Christmas season means it’s time to indulge! Too much great food inevitably leads to a New Year’s resolution, right? So this year, plan ahead!
  The Comox Valley Road Runners is please to offer again this year the popular Learn to Run 5km Clinic starting on January 15th, 2011, at the Lower Native Son's Hall at Cliffe Ave and 3rd St. The clinic is held Saturday mornings, once a week for 10 weeks and culminates with a 5 km run event on March 19th at the Florence Filberg Center as part of the CVRR’s race weekend. Participants also get motivational talks from guest speakers each week to help you on your journey to fitness.
   If you want to meet some great, positive people and need motivation to get you going this Learn to Run Clinic is the place to start.  Registration for the Clinic is only $50.00 (or $45.00 if you register before December 31st) and participants receive a Tech T-shirt, a runner’s manual & log book, loads of draw prizes, two breakfast runs and experienced running group leaders who want to motivate you is what will be 10 weeks of real fun every Saturday at 9:00 A.M..
   You can register at the Courtenay Recreation Association (CRA), Extreme Runners on 5th St., or on the first day (Jan 15th) at the Lower Native Sons Hall.
   This is a chance for you to take action on that pesky New Year’s Resolution and achieve some real personal achievement while having fun along the way.
For more information contact Steven Royer at 250-337-8218, e-mail stevenroyer@hotmail.com or go to www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Royston Hall Rocks Once Again

Can't get that darn Black Eyed Peas "BOOM BOOM" song out of my head, thanks to the CVRR Xmas Party held last nite.

Thanks to all who came out & made it a Rocking Success!!!!Great to see so many of the regulars & new members out.

The following require special recognition:

Karen, Lynda & Joy for doing all the hard work.

Extreme Runners for handling the sale of tickets.

Leslie D. for earning the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Cloves Catering for the awesome turkey buffet.

D.J. Rob for keeping us on the dance floor the entire nite.

The enthusiastic dancers who stayed on the dance floor the enire nite!!!

Sam, Brooke & the rest of the Clean Up Crew who stayed until the party was over to leave the Hall in pristine condition!

The Designated Drivers who offered safe rides home.

Thanks All,

Officially Now Retired Social Gal,

Mary Ann

P.S. Only non-incriminating Xmas pics will be posted to the site, so some of you can now breathe a sigh of relief!! Ha Ha!!

Breaking News - Runners Show Christmas Spirit to Benefit the Comox Valley Food Bank

   A dip in the mercury couldn’t stop over 227 people from showing the true spirit of Christmas at Seal Bay Park this past Sunday as they participated in the annual Jingle Bell Run. The Jingle Bell Run is a charity fundraiser organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners and sponsored by many great local businesses.  Entry to the 7km and 3km fun run was a non-perishable food item and a $5.00 donation that was given to the Comox Valley Food Bank. This year, the hardworking food bank staff gladly received $1132 in donations and a van stuffed full of food to help them fulfill their important mission in the community.

   CVRR event organizer Leslie Dargie said, “It’s the people’s generosity that makes this run so much fun. They come with huge bags of groceries for people in need…it’s very special.” She added, “It was a bit cool but the trails were in great condition. There was a real festive feel in the crowd and the kids loved it too.”.

   The CVRR thanks everyone to came out and donated to the Food Bank at this important time of the year. A special thanks to the many volunteers from who came out to assist make the event a success for the food bank. The Comox Valley Road Runners also would like to give a big thank-you to the many sponsors who provided food, coffee and prizes that made the event possible.
 
   We also very much appreciate the generous support we received from the following sponsors:

Mudsharks Coffee
Tim Hortons.
Thrifty's Foods
Extreme Runners
Ski Tak Hut
Summit Therapeutic Massage Therapy
London Drugs
Zocalos
Comox Valley Nissan
Boston Pizza
Rolfe Counselling
Bonny Ervin
Jim Smiley of Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty
Peter Moore Artist

for info: Leslie Dargie e-mail  alpine4life@yahoo.ca or www.cvrr.ca

Breaking News - Trail Running Area Rezoned

Part of the North-east Woods trail running area has been designated for future Residential Development in the latest draft of the Comox Town Community Official Plan. (See grey area on the map)

The consultant who recommended this, Graham Farstad (info@comoxocp.ca) has said that if sufficient members of the public make known their wishes for this parcel, he would consider changing the designation. If you feel strongly that this area (the Crown Land on District Lot 194) should be maintained for public access, for TRAIL RUNNING, and as a buffer for wildlife management, feel free to email Mr. Farstad to this effect at the above email address.

Breaking News - Outgoing CVRR president Jim Smiley Lauded for Accomplishments

   The upcoming Comox Valley Road Runners annual general meeting (AGM) Sunday November 21st will see a changing of the guard at the CVRR as president Jim Smiley steps down after 4 years of dedicated community service. Jim, an avid runner and real estate broker with Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty, was elected president of the CVRR in 2006 and has seen the club grow under his tenure.

   In a recent article promoting the Comox Valley for a national running magazine, Smiley said of the running club: “The CVRR caters to all levels of runners. It offers members a supportive community of like-minded individuals who all enjoy, appreciate and share the liberating highs and benefits provided by an active lifestyle. Outside of the club, we take seriously our mandate to foster and promote running in the valley as well as community contributions.”

   As president, one of Smiley’s goals was to see more young people get involved in running which he did through the introduction of programs like the “Run4Fun” Junior Running Development Program and the Running Development Bursary Program. The club also joined with the Comox Valley Fall Fair for the highly popular “Track’n Trails” Kids Race. Membership in the CVRR has increased in recent years and with many successful running races organized by club members, the club has maintained a healthy financial position under Smiley’s leadership. The club organizes several running events throughout the year including Learn to Run Clinics and Jim is always there to support the runners with a smile and words of encouragement. Jim sponsors events by donating time, money and prizes that help make the CVRR’s community running events successful.

   The AGM will see a new president elected by the membership but Jim will continue to be active in the club. Jim is a runner first and even his aches and pains won’t keep him from Tuesday Night track practice at the Vanier track.

   The Comox Valley Road Runners would like to thank Jim Smiley for his dedicated service to the club and the community of the Comox Valley and wish him every success in the future.

   CVRR Club members are reminded to attend the AGM on the Nov. 21, 2010 at the Salish Hall (Lewis Park). A morning run and potluck breakfast for CVRR members starts at 9am with the AGM starting at 10:30 sharp. Please go to www.CVRR.ca and checkout all the clubs events.

Breaking News - CVRRs corners Wile E. Coyote in hot tub!

On Remembrance Day in sunny Arizona, after a vigorous pool running session in which we outran Wile E. Coyote, he resurfaced in the hot tub for a photo op.

Note: 5-litre boxes of wine are $9.99 at Walgreen's around the corner.

Breaking News - Update on Pool Running

Pool/Water Running Starts Thursday, 18th November, 6 to 7 pm.

Where is it? Comox Valley Aquatic Centre (North Island College Campus).

How much is it? $5 per week.

What is it? A chance to concentrate on running technique, and get a good anaerobic workout, without the stress of gravity. We generally spend about 10 minutes doing a warm up in the water, then do a 30-40-ish minute “interval” workout with alternate hard and easy “running”, followed by a 10 minute cool down or some bouncing exercises in the pool to finish.

What do I do? 1. Turn up at the Aquatic Centre at about 5:45 pm.
2. Do not pay at the Front Desk. Tell them you are with the CVRR Water Running Group.
3. Proceed to change, shower & then to the pool area.
4. If you have time you might want to spend a few minutes in the hot tub.
5. We start at 6 pm sharp at the far end of the pool by the bleachers. Head over there and grab a flotation belt from the cart on the way over.
6. You will be able to sign up and pay your money there.
7. Put on your flotation belt, jump in the water and you’re ready to go!

Breaking News - UPDATE:CHRISTMAS PARTY TICKETS

The last chance to purchase tickets at track for the CVRR Xmas Party (DEC 10th, ) will be this Tues. Nov. 9th! After that time, tickets will be available at EXTREME RUNNERS & Cathy will be selling them at the AGM on Sun. Nov. 21st!

For the shockingly low price of $20. you get a complete Turkey/Ham buffet with all the fixings, dancing to the wee hours to a DJ, draw prizes etc. etc!!

Once again the party is at the Royston Hall, doors open at 6P.M.,with the buffet commencing at 6:30. Its a BYOB event so you need to arrange for a designated driver please.

Dress is whatever you like, from casual to dolled up (usually the guys!!!)

To date, almost HALF of the 70 tickets have been sold & priority is given to CVRR members & their significant others!!!. However, on Dec. 1st, if tickets are available then we open up sales to our Swimfit friends.

So please do not hesitate in purchasing your tickets!! 

Ask any member who has attended. These parties are outrageous!! The food, music, the "So You Think You Can Dance Comox Valley" moves on the dance floor, the testosterone. Unbelievable!!Beyond description!

Interested now??

F.M.I. please contact Karen at Karen.weller@yahoo.ca or Linda  at lynrobson@telus.net.

 

 

Breaking News - Thursday Evening Hill Runs - Fall/Winter

These runs are sponsored by Extreme Runners.  More info can be found below, or on their website at: www.extremerunners.com/news.php

 Come join the Running Gang at Extreme Runners for a 1 hour Hill Run Thursday nites starting Thursday, Oct. 21 at 5:30pm. Runs start with a warmup run to the hill.  Hills are a great way to increase strength and power.  Since hills require more power, doing them will increase your speed.  Don't miss out  on this opportunity to get ready for next season's races. The first hill workout will be to the Fish Hatchery. Run leaves from Extreme at 5:30pm sharp.
 
HILL RUN SCHEDULE:
 
1.  Thursday, Oct. 21  -Fish Hatchery
2.  Thursday, Oct. 28  -The Beast
3.  Thursday, Nov. 4    -First Street Square
4.  Thursday, Nov. 11  -Fish Hatchery
5.  Thursday, Nov. 18  -The Beast
6. Thursday, Nov.   25 -First Street Square
7. Thursday, Dec.   2  -Fish Hatchery
8. Thursday, Dec.   9  - People's Choice
9. Thursday, Dec.  16 -Christmas Lite Run

For more information: Extreme Runners Website

Breaking News - Victoria Race Weekend Caps off Great Fall for Local Runners

    While many people were celebrating a traditional Thanksgiving, Comox Valley Road Runners were in Victoria racing with over 13,000 runners from around the world at the Royal Victoria Marathon Race Weekend. The highly popular event was only one of a string of successful challenges where local runners excelled this fall.
 
   In September, half a world away in Edinburgh Scotland, Zina and Derek Richmond represented Canada in the World Duathalon Championships. Under sunny skies and on a tough course, the Richmonds raced hard with Derek finishing 26th in his age group and the 2nd Canadian and Zina placing 28th in her category.  Congratulations on exceptional performances.

   Also in September, CVRR members took park in the Great Lake Walk 56km Ultramarathon around Lake Cowichan. The amazing Dr.Janet Greene finished 10th out of 301 finishers in 6 hours 4 minutes. Steve Hanna came 16th in 6:40 and Sonja Leach 24th in 7:06. Leo Rolfe, Len McCormack, Judy Morrison and Mel Springall also completed the grueling course.

   On the other side of the Georgia Strait, Robyn Dicesare put in a solid performance in the Rubble Creek Classic, a 26km mountain running race that includes a 3000 ft ascent and a bone jarring 4000ft descent. Robyn finished 31st overall in a time of 3 hrs 13 minutes.

  On Thanksgiving Day, Keith Wakelin ran an excellent 2hr 58minutes for 42.2km at the BMO Okanagan Marathon in Kelowna placing 10th overall and winning his age division. On the same day, a large contingent of CVRR runners travelled to Victoria to take part in the Royal Victoria Race weekend, now the 2nd largest running event in Canada.  Several excellent performances resulted with Neil Holm winning the Master’s men crown in the ½ marathon with a time of 1:13. Brad Crowe ran the 2nd fastest CVRR time in 1:22 and Wayne Crowe (Brad’s Dad) won the 55-59 age group in 1:25.  Angela Plamondon was 3rd in the 40-44 Women in 1:30, Roz Smith won the 60-64 division in 1:39 and Else Jespersen of Courtenay won the women’s 70-74 group in 2:39. The CVRR Masters team placed 2nd in the ½ marathon and Angela and Roger Plamondon captured 3rd in the husband and wife division. There were many more excellent performances in the marathon and 8km races including young Sophie Pereira’s 8km 2nd place age group finish.

Breaking News - Royal Victoria Marathon Weekend - Results

For Full Results of all races - Click Below

For more information: Results

Breaking News - Denman Poker Race to the Pub

When: Sunday, October 24th, 12 Noon - Catch the 11 am ferry & walk up the hill.

Where: Denman Island Community Hall

Entry forms available at Extreme Runners.

For more information: For More Info

Breaking News - A Running Boom is Underway on Vancouver Island

    Drivers are moving over in their lane a bit more often these days. People are starting to notice and be inspired by what they see. Some are even whispering under their breath: “I could do that.”…and they are (in droves). It’s gotten to the point where there’s no escaping that fact that there’s a running & walking boom happening right here on Vancouver Island.

   The original “running boom” started way back in 1972, when American Frank Shorter won the Olympic Marathon in Munich and Boston’s Bill Rodgers won the Boston Marathon. As time went on, the hype of the boom faded into the background but it never really went away. In the late, 1990’s, the “boom” was back in mainstream North American life. Oprah ran a marathon after losing 70 lbs and showed how running can improve your quality of life. The 100th running of Boston Marathon drew a record 38,708 participants from 84 countries. Race registrations were up all over and people were just out there doing it.

   But in everything there are ebbs and flows. As the Tech Boom of the new millennium took flight, people were spending more time chained to the new technology that was supposed to liberate us. Kids were junkies for video games and adults were struggling to keep up. Then came the crash of the technology sector, the rebound from that and then right into the global economic meltdown of the last couple years; that much stress needs an outlet. People eventually return to the simpler things in life and what is simpler than running and walking.

     Running involves no special equipment other than shoes (although top-of-the-line shoes can cost almost $200 these days), is an efficient form of exercise and, unlike, say, golf, it requires neither a foursome, green-fee, a drive to a golf course and 5 hours of your time. It requires only a step out the front door and provides a simple escape from complex lives.

   Our running-boomers today are not the “boomers” of the 70’s and 80’s. They tend to be a bit more plump, or less gaunt than the original boomers. Statistically, race participation has increased four-fold since the mid-80s, but today's runners are more concerned with overall fitness rather than race performance. Another big change is that women now are a driving force in the new boom. With wildly successful programs like “Run for the Cure” which raises money to combat breast cancer and sees over a ½ million participants every year, women have started walking and running in droves…and the marketplace has responded. Nike holds a women’s only marathon in San Francisco which caps out at 15,000 and sells out every year. Every major sporting brand is offering mainstream running clothes, especially for women. And many women, who run and walk, do it for the social aspect. Sure, they like to run a solid race, but now it’s more important to jog in a group and catch-up with friends than to hammer an interval session on the track.

    In the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, the numbers are way up. “No question, participation is up all over Vancouver Island and particularly here in the Comox Valley,” says Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) president Jim Smiley. “The number of running events has mushroomed over the last 5 to 10 years, so have running clinics of all types. It's a relatively easy and inexpensive physical activity to get into and I think the message is getting out that it doesn't matter how old you are, what kind of shape you're in or whether you have an athletic background or not. Anyone can participate. The benefits are real and lasting.”

    Brad Crowe, co-race director of the CVRR’s flagship event, the Comox Valley ½ Marathon, echo’s Smiley’s sentiments. This year’s ½ marathon attracted a record 833 registrants, up almost 30%. When asked for his thoughts on the increase, Crowe said, “I think the big thing to me is that people know that we put on a quality event. People have come to expect good food at our race, and I don't think we disappoint. I think they also appreciate the fact that we are trying to keep things as green as possible too.” Brad added: “Beyond that, I would say that the (Comox) Valley is magnetic for runners. It has everything you could possibly want, from rural roads, to seaside runs, to smooth park trails, to gnarly mountain trails. And there is almost always some water nearby for a quick dip immediately after you finish. And all that is backed up by an active and social running club. Seems like paradise to me!”
   
    Thursday night trail runs, organized through the local running store Extreme Runners, has seen a steady increase in numbers to the point where 60+ runners is the norm. Led by local runner Frank Graham, the popular summer-time trail runs explore many different trail systems in the Comox Valley and are meant for all levels of runners and walkers. Graham speaks fondly of the runs saying, “The Thursday night trail running series is one of the most inclusive recreation options in the Comox Valley. If you can walk or run for an hour at any speed, you'll fit in our group. The only skills needed are to be able alternate right foot in front of left, and repeat for one hour.  Cost of exploring the breathtaking scenery and trails of the valley is free. The running group leaders, who take turns leading the very different trails, all have a passion for trail running and share their knowledge with fellow trail mates.  That is why I think trail running has been increasing so much in the past few years.”

   So there you have it. If you come west, be sure to bring your running shoes. Join the running boom and if you come to race, register early because the races here sell-out quick.

Eric Martinat
Vancouver Island.

Breaking News - Royal Victoria Marathon Weekend

Good luck to everyone who is racing in Victoria this weekend...
When you pick up your package please make sure that you register on a CVRR team.  There are CVRR teams in just about every division. 
 
Best wishes...

Breaking News - GREAT LAKE WALK/RUN

Congrats to the amazing RoadRunners (Janet Greene, Steve Hanna, & 1st timer Leo Rolfe) who completed the gruelling 56km. run in Lake Cowichan on Sept. 18th. The weather was less than ideal yet all crossed the finish line in impressive times.

Congrats are also in order for 1st timers & members of Leslie Dargie's Tues/Thurs/Sun. A.M. running group: Sonja, Mel & Judy who also posted impressive times!!!.

Way to go guys! You all rock!!!!!

Please visit the Great Lake website for complete results & pics.

For more information: Race Website

Breaking News - BREAKFAST RUN/AGM

The CVRR BREAKFAST RUN/ AGM will be held on Sun. Nov. 21st at the Salish Bldg. in Lewis Park.

The run goes from 9 to ~10 A.M. with the POT LUCK BREAKFAST to follow.

The AGM begins at 10:30 SHARP!!!

Once again all positions to be up for grabs & NEWCOMERS are strongly encouraged to at least come out if not run for one of the EXEC. positions. 

The exec. is presently working on something abit different for the members following the AGM. Stay tuned for updates!!

All are encouraged to come out & run, eat & particiapte in this crucial CVRR meeting.

Don't forget to bring your chequebooks as this is a perfect time to renew your membership as well as buy your tickets to the XMAS PARTY!! 

Breaking News - XMAS PARTY 2010

Mark your calendars for Friday December 10th, for the Social Event of the year, the CVRR Xmas Party.

Once again it will be held at the Royston Hall, with a a complete turkey/ham buffet, followed by dancing till the wee hours!!

Ticket will be available for purchase by Nov. 1st and the exact details will be posted in the future. Note there are limited ticket sales & this is a first come first serve event.

Breaking News - CVRR Forum has been resurrected

www.cvrr.ca/forums

Breaking News - CVRR Seniors' Games Cycling Update, GOOOOOOLD

> Hi Guys:
> We wanted to thank you for coming up to Miracle Beach to cheer us on.
> We can brag
> Betty - Time Trial time 31:00 - good for the gold medal 65 to 69 year
> old class.

> Rick - Time Trial Time 28:45 good for the gold medal in the 70 to
> 74 year old class.

> We had fun - thanks for coming.
> Rick Clough

Breaking News - CVRR Duo at the World Duathlon Championships

Triathlon Canada is proud of the 2010 World Duathlon Championship Age Group and Elite Team. 61 Canadian Age Group and Junior/Elite Athletes ventured to Edinburgh, Scotland to compete on one of the hardest duathlon courses in Europe. With unusually sunny skies and warmer than expected temperatures, the Canadian Team was unanimously voted the best dressed and spirited team in Edinburgh.

Derek Richmond, 26/42 in the Men's 60-64, 2nd Canadian

Zina Richmond, 28/31 in the Women's ......... well, her category. 

Breaking News - Locals at the Seniors' Games

Gordon Harris writes......I am doing the cycling but representing the Peace Region, first race is a time trail on miracle beach rd starting at 10:30, road race near campbell river on friday at 10:30 and the hill climb near the Hydro dam north of campbell river on saturday....again at 10:30.  Good luck to everyone else!A few people competing in the Seniors Games...Go Gordon!!!

here is Roz's schedule.....Go Roz !!!

Roz here - my schedule for BC Sr Games:
Thurs   9:15 a.m.   5,000 m.

            1:30 p.m.     400 m

Fri    10:30 a.m.   1,500 m
        1:30  p.m.       200 m
Sat 8:00 a.m. Filberg Centre 10 km road race - I am not entered but may try to get entered and drop the 200 m if too many events.

 

Les will run the 10 km if injuries permit. Go Les!!!!..Go Les !!

The 10 k goes from the Filberg and follows the same route as the 1/2 marathon...8 am on Saturday.

Breaking News - Memorial Trail Run a Great Challenge and Good Fun

   A determined group of runners came out to the Comox Lake Dam this past Sunday morning, braving the elements, to take part in the annual Comox Valley Road Runners Memorial Run. The run is a yearly event commemorating valley runners who helped build the Comox Valley Road Runners club and have passed on. This years run was a new, fun format run where runners were partnered with another runner and set out on a relay style run on challenging trails near the Dam. This year’s race included a Kids Challenge 3km race.
    Fortunately the rain held off and a bear spotted along the trail left for quieter grounds. The runners gave it their all trying the chase down the runner ahead in the relay. Even the Kids race saw an exciting sprint finish between Joe Winkelaar, Westin Carter and Ben Prager with Joe coming in first followed by Westin and Ben respectively. Sequoia Bridges was the first girl not far behind. In the team event Peter Ravensbergen and Brad Crowe took top spot. This years race directors, John Ingram and Cathy Clark, were happy with how the race format turned out and are looking forward to an even bigger event next year.  The runners were treated to an after race BBQ with prizes awarded to the top teams and the top boy and girl in the Kids race. The CVRR would like to thank all competitors and volunteers who assisted this fun memorial event.

3Km Kids Race
1-Joe Winkelaar
2-Weston Carter
3-Ben Prager
4-Johnathan Winkelaar
5-Sequoia Bridges (first girl)
6-Rebecca Winkelaar
7-Daisy Dargie
8-Charley Bridges
9-Ella Prager

Team race (top 5):
1. Peter Ravensbergen and Brad Crowe
2. Jelke Hoekstra and Nathan Collins
3. Wayne Crowe and Peter Dargie
4. Gord Harris and Chris Perry
5. Terry Nielsen and Hazel Serraro

Breaking News - The Sugoi Clubwear has arrived.

Those who ordered clothes can pick them up at either Tuesday night track or at the Thursday night trail run. If you are not attending those workouts you can make arrangements with Robyn at robyndicesare@gmail.com or call 331-0254.
 
   There was some extra club wear ordered. If club members would like to purchase shirts or singlets please contact Robyn. Prices are:
Tech Tee's $35,  Singlets $30. Also we still have CVRR hats for sale at $15 each.

Breaking News - Westwood Lake Relay, Nanaimo

Saturday, 30th October, 2010 at 10:00 am

General Info: Teams of four run 5km each on the trail around Westwood Lake. 15 Categories available.
www.westwoodlakerelay.com

Registrations online before October 27th. 

This event is part of four cross country races on Vancouver Island.

All funds raised from this event will go to Nanaimo Regional
General Hospital - Emergency Department.

Breaking News - Kids Tear Up the Track’n Trails at CV Ex

    

The sun shone down and parents faces beamed as their kids ran like the wind at the 2nd Annual Track’n Trails Kids Run held this past Saturday at the Comox Valley Exhibition. The free race event for kids has doubled in size since the first running at last year’s CV Ex. The kids took part in races of 500 meters, 1 Km or 1.5 KM depending on their ages. The race was sponsored by the Bank of Montreal and organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners.  After the races, the kids were treated to post-run snacks and tones of draw prizes donated by community sponsors.

   “It’s great to see so many excited kids out having a great time” said run director Cheryl Eldridge. Her co-director Mary Bridges added that the race is getting to be a big event with 94 participants this year and she thanked the many volunteers who helped keep the kids on the right “track’n trails”.

   In the Bunny division (up to 5 years of age) Ryan Scott was the fasted boy and Adelaine Burch was the fastest girl. In the 6 – 9 age group, speedy Westin Carter sprinted home in first for the boys and Annelies Henckel cruised in first for the girls. In the 9 – 12 years old group, Westin’s older brother Colton Carter bided his time and opened a lead in the 1.5 Km race to take top spot with Taylor Eldridge winning the girls division for the 2nd year straight.

   Judging by the wide smiles on the faces of the runners and their parents, the 2nd Annual Track’n Trails Kids Run was a great success. Congratulations to all contestants and thank you to our event sponsors:
BMO
CVEx
Extreme Runners
London Drugs
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
Comox Valley Regional District
Mountain City Cycle
Jim Smiley - Remax Ocean Pacific Realty
Dairy Queen

Breaking News - Summer Trail Race Pictures

Mt. Washington Gutbuster and 5 Peaks Whistler Pictures now available on Photobucket

For more information: Summer Trail Races

Breaking News - 2nd Annual Track’n Trail Kids’ Fun Run Set to go at CVEx

     

Hey parents! You’ve been chasing your kids since they’ve learned to walk, now it’s time to see how fast they really are and how much fun they can have at the 2nd Annual Track’n Trail Kid’s Fun Run at the Comox Valley Exhibition. On Saturday morning, August 28th, at the CVEx grounds these fun running events will go rain or shine at 10am and are sponsored by the Bank of Montreal and organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners. Co-organizers Mary Bridges and Cheryl Eldridge said the run was highly popular with the kids last year and are looking forward even more fun this time.

Entry is free and there are three age categories for the young runners;
-Bunny Runners (5 years and under) on a 500 m loop;
-6 – 12 years who will run a 1 km Trail; and
-10 years and up will run a 1.5 km trail.

The first 100 runners will get a CVEx Track’n Trail T-shirt and all will get participation ribbons, snacks and free admission for the day to the Exhibition grounds. Tons of draw prizes will be awarded as well as prizes for the first girl and boy of each category.

  

CVRR and CVEx hope that parents encourage their children to participate in these fun events to help promote fitness. Come out and enjoy all the fair has to offer.

    Entry forms for pre-registration are available in the 2010 CVEx Entry Book or on the CVEx website (www.cvexhibition.com), the Comox Valley Road Runners website (www.cvrr.ca) or at the CVEx office. Race day registration starts at 9:00am with the Bunny Race starting at 10:00am. Enter by the Dove Creek Entrance and say you’re ready to race!

Breaking News - 115 Runners Complete the 41st Annual Nautical Days 4 Mile Road Race

   Excellent racing weather greeted runners from around the island and some very fast times were recorded during this year's running of the Nautical Days 4 Mile Foot Race, the oldest continually run foot race in British Columbia. 115 runners and jogger took part in the 41st annual race in downtown Comox on BC Day, August 2nd.  “We had great community sponsorship from local businesses for this event as we do every year and a great crew of dedicated volunteers that made the event a great success.” said director Karen Weller of the Comox Valley Road Runners.

     Overall male winner was Cam Levins in 19:05 - 17 seconds better than his own fastest time on this course in 2008. He was followed in second place by Craig Odermatt of Victoria in 20:22 and Owen Kendall in 21:06. In what’s becoming an exciting sibling rivalry, the speedy young Commandeur brothers battled it out on the course with Adam finishing just ahead of Scott claiming 9th overall and 1st in the M13-19 division.
  
    Mary Clair Geneau was the top female runner with a fast time of 27:33 and was followed not far behind by Andrea Prager in 27:48 and in third place was Karen Argyle in 28:46.

     Male age group winners were 12 and under: Danny Yeo; 13-19: Adam Commandeur; 20-29 Cam Levins; 30-39 Jerry Loeb; 40-49 Craig Ordermatt; 50-59 Keith Wakelin; 60-69 Rhys Harrison; 70 plus Garth Ball.

      Female age group winners were 12 and under Emily Keyes; 13-19 Mary Clair Geneau; 20-29 Caroline McGaw; 30-39 Andrew Prager; 40-49 Sandra Clark; 50-59 Karen Sibley; 60-69 Sonia Leach and 70 plus Louise Reed. Full race results are available at www.CVRR.ca.

     The Comox Valley Road Runners thank all participants and the numerous volunteers for making this years race a success. A special thank you to the race sponsors for their generous contribution and support.

Jim Smiley (Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty)  Fitness Excellence  Blacks Cycle
Extreme Runners    The Medicine Shoppe  Benino Gelato
Long Lands Golf Course   Blue Heron Books  The Avenue
Tim Horton’s Comox    Quality Foods   Café Amantes
Smitty’s Restaurant Comox   Toscano’s Restaurant  Island Treasures
The Kingfisher Resort    The Blackfin Pub  Rolfe Consulting
Canadian Tire Courtenay   Simon’s Cycles  Anita Kalmay 
The Westerly Best Western Hotel

2010 Results - 2009 Nautical Days 4 Miler RESULTS

Place Overall Division Place Name Time 
1 M20-29 1 Cameron Levins 19:05 1st Male
2 M40-49 1 Craig Odermatt 20:25 2nd Male
3 M20-29 2 Owen Kendall 21:06 3rd Male
4 M30-39 1 Jerry Loeb 22:22 
5 M20-29 3 Jake Holm 23:09 
6 M20-29 4 Robin Poirer 23:14 
7 M20-29 0:00 Scott MacKinnon 23:21 
8 M40-49 2 Vince Brotherston 23:34:00 
9 M13-19 1 Adam Commandeur 23:37:00 
10 M13-19 2 Scott Commandeur 23:45:00 
11 M40-49 3 Terry Nielson 23:49:00 
12 M40-49 4 Edwin Johnston 23:53:00 
13 M30-39 2 Shawn Boyd 23:57:00 
14 M20-29 6 Brad Crowe 24:01:00 
15 M50-59 1 Keith Wakelin 24:19:00 
16 M40-49 5 Steven Royer 24:36:00 
17 M13-19 3 Brian Turnham 24:51:00 
18 M20-29 7 Kyle Bohn 24:58:00 
19 M20-29 8 Ryan MacKinnon 25:15:00 
20 M50-59 2 Wayne Crowe 25:20:00 
21 M40-49 6 Eric Sherritt 25:39:00 
22 M20-29 9 Kevin Wakelin 25:50:00 
23 M30-39 3 Chris MacIntyre 26:16:00 
24 M20-29 10 Lee Ketterer 26:33:00 
25 M60-69 1 Rhys Harrison 26:34:00 
26 M13-19 4 Ben Lukenchuk 26:43:00 
27 M20-29 11 Mitch Gudgeon 26:45:00 
28 M13-19 5 Kyle Johnson 27:26:00 
29 F13-19 1 Mary Claire Geneau 27:33:00 1st Female
30 M50-59 3 Darrell Hillier 27:36:00 
31 M40-49 7 Alex Kennedy 27:41:00 
32 F30-39 1 Andrea Praeger 27:48:00 2nd Female
33 M40-49 8 Robert Hunt 28:08:00 
34 M12+under 1 Danny Yeo 28:22:00 
35 M50-59 4 Steve Smith 28:22:00 
36 M40-49 9 Wayne Demerse 28:26:00 
37 M50-59 5 Brian Fardoe 28:36:00 
38 M40-49 10 Andrew Spezowka 28:44:00 
39 F30-39 2 Karen Argyle 28:46:00 3rd Female
40 M30-39 4 Steve Blacklock 28:59:00 
41 M20-29 12 Trevor Ketterer 29:34:00 
42 F20-29 1 Caroline McGaw 29:50:00 
43 M50-59 6 Joe Geneau 29:59:00 
44 M40-49 11 Russ Green 30:04:00 
45 M40-49 12 Michael Scott 30:04:00 
46 M12+under 2 Grayson Scott 30:06:00 
47 F50-59 1 Karen Sibley 30:22:00 
48 M40-49 13 Tom Novecosky 30:28:00 
49 M70+ 1 Garth Ball 30:29:00 
50 F40-49 1 Sandra Clark 30:31:00 
51 M40-49 14 Jeff Schindell 30:38:00 
52 M50-59 7 Larry Smith 30:49:00 
53 M20-29 13 Cyril Indome 30:56:00 
54 F40-49 2 Leslie Currie 31:08:00 
55 F30-39 3 Daria Davyduke 31:12:00 
56 M13-19 6 Cameron Wallis 31:32:00 
57 M30-39 5 Brian Rose 31:38:00 
58 M50-59 8 Hugh McKinnon 31:39:00 
59 M40-49 15 Hans Gane 31:40:00 
60 M50-59 9 Tony Powell 31:53:00 
61 F30-39 3 Dennyse Harris 32:08:00 
62 M50-59 10 Derald Lewis 32:21:00 
63 F40-49 3 Gloria Grieve 32:30:00 
64 M50-59 11 Bruce Muir 32:32:00 
65 M40-49 16 Brent Bain 32:42:00 
66 M50-59 12 Robert Yeo 33:01:00 
67 F20-29 2 Shannon Fletcher 33:14:00 
68 F50-59 2 Deirdre Pitre 33:17:00 
69 F30-39 4 Jennifer Harrison 34:04:00 
70 F20-29 3 Holly Dionne 34:08:00 
71 F20-29 4 Sherry Matsuba 34:10:00 
72 F12+under 1 Emily Keyes 34:15:00 
73 F40-49 4 Mary Lee Novecosky 34:34:00 
74 M20-29 14 Pat McAllister 34:46:00 
75 M50-59 13 Gary Franceshini 34:53:00 
76 M40-49 17 Alan Wallis 34:58:00 
77 M40-49 18 Brad Smith 35:09:00 
78 M13-19 7 Fergie Robinson 35:11:00 
79 M50-59 14 Chris Robinson 35:17:00 
80 M70+ 2 Adam Simpson 35:22:00 
81 M30-39 6 Scott Morse 35:41:00 
82 M50-59 15 Kevin Widdifield 36:00:00 
83 F50-59 3 Elaine Donaldson 36:06:00 
84 F50-59 4 Nancy Musgrave 36:15:00 
85 F60-69 1 Sonya Leach 36:15:00 
86 F30-39 5 Joy Chan 36:20:00 
87 F20-29 5 Kate Curtis 36:20:00 
88 F20-29 6 Anayeli Mendosa 36:32:00 
89 F40-49 5 Susan Yeo 36:52:00 
90 F30-39 6 Kathy Collins 36:55:00 
91 F40-49 6 Pamela Kathol 37:29:00 
92 F30-39 7 Jean Munro 38:52:00 
93 M60-69 2 Tom Munro 38:57:00 
94 M50-59 16 Dave McLeod 29:12:00 
95 F12+under 2 Hazel Sherritt 29:19:00 
96 M12+under 3 Thomas Sherritt 39:23:00 
97 F30-39 8 Dhea Wallace Chow 39:51:00 
98 F12+under 3 Molly Keyes 40:27:00 
99 M40-49 19 Danny Keyes 40:29:00 
100 F12+under 4 Ella Sandoval Carlsten 40:49:00 
101 M30-39 7 Chris Carlsten 40:54:00 
102 F50-59 5 Maxine Bowen 41:22:00 
103 F50-59 6 Linda Smith 41:52:00 
104 F50-59 7 Robin Clarke 41:54:00 
105 F70+ 1 Louise Reed 41:56:00 
106 F50-59 8 Coral Forbes 42:05:00 
107 F50-59 9 Jane McDonald 43:07:00 
108 F30-39 9 Sue Sherritt 43:45:00 
109 F50-59 10 Robin Roy 43:53:00 
110 F30-39 10 Lesley Kennedy 44:08:00 
111 F30-39 11 Jennifer Kennedy 44:08:00 
112 F40-49 7 Alma Ballington 45:53:00 
113 F40-49 8 Sherry Dittrick 45:54:00 
114 F13-19 2 Hanna Ivankovic 53:51:00 
115 F30-39 12 Leigh Ivankovic 53:51:00 

Breaking News - 5th Street Mile 2010 Photos

This year's 5th St Mile photos now available on Photobucket.

Click below.

For more information: Click for Photo Album

Breaking News - Runners Burn Up 5th Street on Canada Day

   There’s something magical about getting dressed up in patriotic colours and running as fast as you can in front of thousands of onlookers cheering you on. The magic happened under cloudy skies just before the Canada Day parade as the Canada Day 5th Street Mile road race organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners took place. A sea of 175 red and white clad runners left from the intersection of 5th Street at Woods Ave and headed to the finish at Simms Park. The rain held off and the slick roads couldn’t slow down the runners as local speedster Cam Levins broke 4 minutes for the 1 mile course for the 2nd year running an astounding 3:59.82. Kathy Rung led the women home in 5:27.92.

   As 19 Wing’s Aurora and Buffalo flew past the finish line, the runners enjoyed post race treats and the winners received chocolate medals from Hot Chocolates. Draw prizes were donated by several local businesses and, for breaking 4 minutes, Levins receives running shoes from Extreme Runners.

   The next summer running event is the Nautical Days 4 Mile Road Race, the oldest continuously held race in BC, set to go on BC Day (Aug.2nd) in Comox. Go to www.cvrr.ca for more info.

Winners of the 2010 Canada Day 5th St Mile
Over 20 yrs
   M-  Cam Levins   3:59:82
   W-  Kathy Rung   5:27:92
16-19 yrs
   M- Evan Irvine   5:38
   W-Sadie Horner 6:11
11-15 yrs
  M- Adam Commandeur   4:41
  W- Chloe Gummer   6:02
10 and under
  M- 1st Alex Burlechailo 6:48    2nd Gabe Schovanek 6:58
  W- Gillian Scott 6:56

For more information: Full Results

Breaking News - CLUB CLOTHING.

The CVRR Executive is pleased to offer you a chance to reorder CVRR clothing from Sugoi. Orders are due by July 20th.

Payment to be made by cash or cheque payable to Comox Valley Road Runners.
Order Forms are available at Tuesday Track, or Thursday Trail Runs from Robyn or Roz.

For more information contact Robyn (250-331-0254) or Roz (250-339-1070).

Women's/Men's Tech Tee: $35
Run Singlet (men’s):  $35
Ready Jacket:  $100

If you’re not sure of the sizing, you can check at the Sugoi website, or try on similar Sugoi items for sizing purposes at ExtremeRunners.

Women’s Tech Tee, $35.00             

        

 

 

Men's Tech Tee, $35.00                               Men's Tech Mesh Singlet, $35.00

 

 

 

 

Custom Ready Run Jacket, $100.00

 

 

 

For more information: Click for Order form

Breaking News - BC Seniors' Games

The 23rd annual BC Seniors Games will be jointly hosted by the communities of Comox Valley & Campbell River September 15 (Wednesday) through 18 (Saturday), 2010.  With the support of two regional districts - Comox Valley & Strathcona - and four municipalities- the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, the Village of Cumberland and the City of Campbell River - as well as hundreds of volunteers, we look forward to welcoming as many as 3,000 seniors to compete in twenty-eight different events.We look forward to sharing the “Spirit of the Island” with competitors, their families, Games Family members and spectators in September in the Comox Valley and Campbell River 2010 B.C. Seniors Games.
CVRR will be responsible for running the 10k Road Race and 10k Walk on Saturday morning, 15th. Volunteers are needed.  If you would like to be a part of this historic event, please register as a Sport - Athletics volunteer on the Games Website, indicating you would like to help out with the above races. Thank you very much.

For more information: Click to volunteer

Breaking News - 2010 SUMMER SOLSTICE BBQ AT TRACK

Its official!!! This year's 2nd most popular CVRR Social Event of the year is planned for Tuesday June 22nd, at ~6:30 P.M., following the track work out.

For all you newcomers, the Summer Solstice BBQ is held right at the Vanier Track & is open to members & their families. Its a great opportunity for CVRR members & those supportive, non-running significant others to socialize and celebrate the start of summer.

The generous gang at Valley West Autohaus supplies the commercial size BBQ & Sam Knowles is the expert at firing that baby up with a  blow torch!!!. 

Everyone is asked to bring a chair, or blanket, something to throw on the BBQ , a dish to share as well as a beverage. In keeping with the club's GREEN POLICY, everyone is  encouraged to bring their own plates, cutlery & serving utensils.

CVRR will supply the condiments.

Mark it on your calendar as this (Rain or Shine) event is always well attended. This year it will follow the Kusam Klimb & Relay for Life so the conversations are guaranteed to be most exciting!!!

 

Breaking News - “RUN4FUN” Relay Races Wrap-up Third Great Year of Junior Running

    Several young runners showed the fruits of their training as they “gutted-it-out” during relays and running games during the final session of “RUN4FUN”, held at the Vanier Track Monday night. This was the third season for the junior running development program organized by the Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) and held at various great running locations around the Comox Valley. This year’s program had 30 young athletes from 8 to 14 years of age taking part.

   The RUN4FUN program focuses on making running fun for all the kids and lets them know they can use running to explore the world and make fitness a part of their everyday lives. Youth ages 8 to 14 met at different running venues around the Comox Valley where they competed in a “Poker Run” at Seal Bay, ran the trails along Nymph Falls and the beaches of Goose Spit. They learned about sports injuries and nutrition from Dr. Wayne Crowe and met with Lene Curts, owner of Extreme Runners, to learn the importance of proper running equipment. At the finale, Nigel Ellsay, an up-and-coming triathlete and a recent winner of the CVRR Junior Development Grant, motivated the young runners with a peptalk before the relays got underway. After the relays, awards were handed out to those runners who logged more than a marathon (42km) of training mileage during the course.

   Co-coaches Robyn Dicesare and Eric Martinat loved working with the enthusiastic kids and watching them progress during the course. 

  Look for the “RUN4FUN” program again next spring after March break. The CVRR would like to thank the sponsors of RUN4FUN: Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty, Extreme Runners, SwagPromo.com, and Hot Chocolates of Courtenay. Congratulations to all the participants.

For more pictures click on Pictures at left.

Breaking News - RELAY FOR LIFE RAFFLE

Donations, of a minimum $5.00, are now being accepted for the ever popular CVRR RAFFLE for the Relay of Life.

This year's raffle is BIGGER & BETTER!!!!!!!

 Prizes include:

 * A gift certificate from EXTREME RUNNERS.

 *A kayak rental for 2 from C.V. Kayaks

 *CVRR membership & entry to the 1/2 Marathon or Learn toRun   Clinic

 *Entry to the Perseverance Trail Race

 *Runner's Goodie Bag donated by M.A. Rolfe

 All proceeds to be donated to the Relay for Life (CVRR Team).The draw  will take place during the Relay on Sat. June 19th.

Entries are to a max. of 5 per person. Enter at EXTREME RUNNERS.

GOOD LUCK & THANKS TO LENE & THE GANG AT EXTREME FOR ONCE AGAIN SUPPORTING THIS EVENT

 

 

Breaking News - Future Stars Receive Financial Boost From Local Club

   Teenage athletes Delaney Carr and Nigel Ellsay have been selected by the Comox Valley Road Runners club as the 2010 recipients of the CVRR Youth Training Grants. The grant program is the designed to assist up-and-coming local athletes, whose chosen sport has a running focus, with a financial boost that will assist them with purchasing athletic equipment or attending competitions. Both athletes attended a presentation ceremony held at the CVRR’s regular Tuesday night running workout at the Vanier Track.

       Delaney Carr, is a Comox resident and a 200m and 800m individual bronze medallist at the 2009 BC Junior Development Championships. In addition, she was a member of the gold medal winning 4x100m and medley relay zone teams at the same championships. Carr is now focused on this July’s BC Summer Games in Langley and the National Midget Championships to be held in Ottawa in August.

    Nigel Ellsay, a triathlete, is a Courtenay resident who trains with the Isfeld Track Team, the Comox Sharks Swim Club and Comox Cycling Club. He placed first in the 14-15 year age group at last summer’s Delta Triathlon, and won gold medals in the 3000m and 1500m at the 2010 Kamloops Indoor Championships in February.

    The CVRR wishes both of these rising stars the very best in their future endeavours.

Breaking News - Local Runners Place High in Eugene and Saanich Races

Local runners, fresh off the Vancouver Island Running Series, set the roads and trails on fire in Oregon and Victoria this weekend and brought home some impressive results and hardware in the process.

 
   At the 2010 Eugene Marathon, held Sunday May 2nd, cool running weather greeted thousands who toed the line in the ½ marathon (21.1km) and full marathon (42.2km).  In the marathon, Roslyn Smith of the Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR) came 1st the Women’s 60-64 age division in 3:35:11 and bettered the next opponent in her division by over 35 minutes. In the Men’s 50-54 division, Wayne Crowe of the CVRR/Extreme Runners/Asics, won in an excellent time of 2:50:33. Honourable mention goes to Shannon Lebeuf who ran 3:38:36 in her first marathon. In all, eight CVRR runners ran in the races and all had excellent results. See below for results.

   Meanwhile, back in Canada, fifty athletes toed the line on a blustery, rainy field in Saanich to contest a variety of distances, consisting of multiple 10K loops of the lake in the Elk/Beaver Lake Ultra Marathons. In the 100k race Ellie Greenwood, a British citizen who has called Banff home for the last 8 years, produced the outstanding performance of the day to come home in a Women’s 100Km trail running world record of 7:36:40. The 50K race was also the 2010 Association of Canadian Ultramarathoners 50Km Championship. This was a close contest between two masters men. Victoria’s Darren Froese led from the start, but was unable to shake the Comox Valley Road Runner’s own Keith Wakelin (CVRR/Fitness Excellence). Entering the final lap, Darren held a slim one minute lead, which he extended to just over two minutes by the finish, earning the championship honours in 3:37:39. Wakelin came second in an amazing 3:39:55 for the 50km trail course. 
   For more local running info go to www.CVRR.ca .

Eugene ½ and Full Marathon Results: 
Marathon
Wayne Crowe M5054 60 1/99 2:50:33
Roslyn Smith F6064 591 1/14 3:35:11
Shannon Lebeuf F3539 664 25/181 3:38:36
Cheryl Eldridge F4044 745 30/164 3:43:25
½ Marathon
Chris Winkelaar M3539 223 24/196 1:37:03
Robyn Dicesare F4549 485 14/262 1:45:47
Karen Sibley F5054 1081 20/245 1:58:19
Tom Munro M6569 2378 12/32 2:22:23

RUN4FUN - Rain Doesn’t Dampen Spirits at Run4Fun Session Number 5

   An Environment Canada wind warning and wet conditions this past Monday weren’t enough to deter the junior Run4Fun running group from racing a challenging course at Seal Bay Park in a Poker Run as part of the Comox Valley Road Runners Run4Fun Junior Running Program. The Seal Bay run was session 5 of 8 in a program designed to enhance fitness, knowledge of nutrition and sports injuries, all the while running at the many beautiful running locations in the Comox Valley. The program has an enthusiastic following and has been supported by a generous donation from Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty. Swag Promo Inc. and Extreme Runners have also continued to sponsor the program as it grows in popularity. To date participants have run at Nymph Falls, 19 Wing Comox, Puntledge Park and the Vanier Track complex.

   In Seal Bay Park, Coach Robyn Dicesare warmed up the eager group and then lined them up to start a race similar to the annual Jingle Bell Run held in November each year. At the Jungle Bell Run, runners collect playing cards at several points along the route and the best playing card hand wins. But to make the event more challenging, the Run4Fun runners had to complete a fun physical task at each station in order to receive a playing card.  Even with the rain pouring down, Kayden Dion set a boys course record in 13:52 and Gillian Ellsay ran a course record for the girls in 15:15. All the runners completed the course and the best card hand for boys and girls received prizes. The winning card hands went to Miranda Lebeuf for the girls and Coulton Carter for the boys.  Hot Chocolates of Courtenay graciously supported this event with specially designed chocolate playing cards for all the junior runners as prizes for a race well run. All the runners had a great running in beautiful Seal Bay Park despite the wet weather.

   Next Monday’s session, the youth will meet at the Courtenay Rec Center to run the River Walk trail followed by a run at Goose Spit and then the wrap-up relays at the Vanier track on May 18th. Run4Fun participants and their families are invited to join hundreds of other Valley runners as they run the very popular 5th Street Mile Race held on Canada Day.
 
    For information on the program or other CVRR running events go to the Comox Valley Road Runners website at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Vancouver Island Spine Relay

This looks like an interesting event for our multi event members.....Have a look!

The details for the Vancouver Island Spine relay are now finalized. You can view the schedule at the following webpage:
http://www.vispine.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=53
 
You can register for the Relay at the following website:
https://www.zone4.ca/register.asp?id=1117
 
You can download a PDF presentation on the Vancouver Island Spine Trail and Relay, including maps and distances for all Sections, by clicking here:
http://members.shaw.ca/andrewpapesalmon/Vista Presentation Power Point Final.pdf
 
If you wish to learn more about the Relay, please attend a public presentation in Victoria at the Mountain Equipment Coop store on Wednesday, May 5 at 7pm. The store address is: 1450 Government Street.
 
Please let me know if you have any questions and I will get back to you by early next week.
 
Andrew Pape-Salmon
Vancouver Island Spine Relay Chair
andrewpapesalmon@shaw.ca

2010 Results - Local Runners Excel at Island Race Series Finale

    Perfect running weather greeted the competitors at last Sunday’s tough Sooke 10km Road Race. The hilly our and back course was the final of 8 Vancouver Island Road Race Series races held every 2nd weekend since January. The Comox Valley Road Runners were in a seesaw battle with another running club, Front Runners Westshore of Victora, and, despite stellar performances on the road, CVRR was outgunned and wound up in 3rd place overall amongst the over 80 Vancouver Island running clubs. Two CVRR runners, Wayne Crowe and Roslyn Smith, ate-up the course and set age-group records in the process. 

   The Men’s overall winner was Mark Nelson from Front Runners Westshore in a time of 33:25 and the Women’s overall champion was Melissa Ross of the Oceanside Running Club in 37:44. CVRR’s Wayne Crowe showed he was set for his upcoming marathon in Eugene, Oregon, by setting a course record in the Men’s 55-59 division and winning in a time of 37:15. Keith Wakelin also won his division, Men’s 50-54, in 37:42. Brad Crowe followed in 38:11 and Roger Plamondon grabbed 3rd place in the Men’s 45-49 group in 38:56.

  The CVRR women rand strong as Angela Plamondon won the Women’s 45-49 division in 41:34 and Shannon Lebeuf captured 2nd in the Women’s 40-44 category in 45:14.  Age-group champion, Roslyn Smith, went undefeated in the Island Series and set a course record of 46:59 and won the Women’s 60-64 division.

   In the club overall standings, The Prairie Inn Harriers of Victoria won the overall title followed by Front Runners Westshore 2nd, the Comox Valley Road Runners 3rd, the Westwood Running Club 4th and the Bastion Running Club in 5th.

   With the Vancouver Island Running Series done, valley runners are setting their sights on the Canada Day 1 Mile Road Race held July 1st down 5th Street in Courtenay and the Nautical Days 4 Miler held on BC Day Weekend in Comox. For information on these and other great running events go to www.CVRR.ca.

Breaking News - NORTH MEETS SOUTH PUB RUN & SOCIAL

On Saturday, May 1st, the running communities of the C.V. & C.R. will unite for the 1st ever NORTH MEETS SOUTH PUB RUN.

The plan is to meet at the Oyster River Trailhead at 4 P.M. & run/walk over to the SALMON POINT PUB for a quick beverage.

Then we'll run/walk back to the FISHERMAN'S PUB for dinner at ~ 6ish.

Please email Karen at karen.weller@yahoo.ca if interested so we can provide the pubs with some numbers.

Plan to come out & socialize with our neighbors from the North & please arrange for a sober ride home!

 

 

2010 Results - Valley Running Club moves into 2nd in Island Race Series

The Comox Valley Road Runners turned in strong performances at this past weekend’s Merville 15km Road Race and moved the club up from 5^th place to 2^nd overall amongst the 83 identified Vancouver Island running clubs in the Island Race Series. The popular running series is comprised of 8 races held around the Island and, with only one race to go, the club is hoping to maintain its place amidst strong competition from Victoria area clubs.

  

    At the Merville 15k, 273 runners were happy the poor weather held off and many excellent performances resulted. The race was won by Willie Langat of the Prairie Inn Harriers in 48:57. The first female overall was Tina Conelly of the Prairie Inn Harriers in 55:24. Twenty Comox Valley Road Runners took part and were led home by Terry Nielson in 56:39. Close on his heels was a tight race between father and son, Wayne Crowe and Brad Crowe, with dad edging out his hard charging son by 2 seconds in 56:48 and 56:50 respectively. Wayne Crowe was also 1^st in the men’s 55-59 division. Keith Wakelin came 1^st in the men’s 50-55 division in 58:13 with Roger Plamondon not far back picking up a 3^rd in that same category in 58:59.

 

    Amongst CVRR women, Angela Plamondon was first across the line winning the women’s 45-49 division in 1:03:48. Kathy Rung finished in 1:05:04 and placed 1^st in the female 35-39 division. Shannon Lebeuf came 3^rd in the women’s 40-44 category and Karen Sibley grabbed 3^rd in the 50-54 group. The amazing Roz Smith continued her winning ways with a 1^st place in the women’s 60-65 division in 1:08:51 and running legend Diane Palmason won 1^st in the women’s 70-74 category.

 

    The final race in the Vancouver Island Running Series takes place on April 18^th with the running of the Sooke 10km Road Race. To keep up on the local running scene, check out www.CVRR.ca for full results and upcoming club events.

Breaking News - Half Marathon Photos

A collection of half marathon photos available via Photbucket as an experiment.

For more information: Click for Pictures

2010 Results - 5k Results - Learn to Run Clinic

1 Daniel Scherr             21:17
2 Ceiliph Curtis            23:43
3 Sophie Pereira   24:25
4 Daniel Pereira   25:58
5 Michelle Irvine   26:30
6 Jennifer Ackroyd 26:48
7 Ann Carey 26:54
8 Taylor Eldridge 27:24
9 Dawn Spring 28:57
10 Chris Murphy 28:57
11 Joy Chan 29:40
12 Haley Richardson 29:41
13 Peggy Nelson 29:42
14 Sharon Hysert 29:44
15 Terry Clark 30:07
16 Kirsten Edwards 30:08
17 Michele Williams 30:08
18 Carrie Bisson 30:35
19 Bob Richardson 30:43
20 Marjork Miller 30:58
21 May Reimer 31:09
22 Audry Harms 31:09
23 Bill Atkinson 44:29 Walker
24 Bob Vanderzwaag 31:33
25 Heidi Sherman 31:42
26 Angie Campbell 31:57
27 Miranda Lebeuf 32:47
28 Charlene Davidson 33:07
29 Kathrine Brotherston 33:07
30 Beth Hopkins 33:24
31 Carl Bitonti 33:29
32 Donna Senger 46:38 Walker
33 Sandra Josephson 33:45
34 Joelle Senger 47:01 Walker
35 Evelyn Gillespie 34:09
36 Maura wall 34:10
37 Danielle walls 34:11
38 Patti Curtis 34:26
39 Darlene Goodrick 34:50
40 Mechelle Garrett 34:51
41 Kim Finlayson 34:53
42 Coral Forbes 35:10
43 Tamera Servizi 35:22
44 Claudia Boyce 35:24
45 Shasha Handley 48:45 Walker
46 Rolande Pickett 48:47 Walker
47 Anne Bitonti 35:48
48 Chris Erwing 36:16
49 Tara Zaal 36:25
50 Kristie Schrader 36:26
51 Heather Corman 36:27
52 Zacharie Pereira 49:38 Walker
53 Shirley Desilva 49:38 Walker
54 Nancy Miller 36:57
55 Marina Aucoin 37:13
56 Nicole Burgess 37:14
57 Jo Anne Mcleod 37:31
58 Season Pizzey 37:35
59 Carolyn Clark 50:35 Walker
60 Tracey Payne 37:48
61 Ruby Hetervig 50:48 Walker
62 Beverly Gordon 50:48 Walker
62 Linda Munro 51:01 Walker
63 Pam Twin 51:05 Waker
64 Serena Atwood 51:34 Waker
65 Alice Clark 51:41 Walker
66 Gaya LaFlamme 51:41 Walker

2010 Results - Record Numbers at 2010 Race Weekend Events

 
  

 

 

 

Excellent running weather greeted a record number of runners and walkers taking part in the busiest running weekend of the year for the Comox Valley Road Runners. Two major events held over the weekend, the Learn to Run Clinic’s 5 Km Fun Run “wrap-up” celebration was held on Saturday morning and was followed by the Comox Valley ½ Marathon on Sunday morning. CVRR Club President Jim Smiley hailed the weekend as a great success.

   Saturday morning, over 65 runners anxiously warmed up and then set off from the Filberg Centre on the 5 km out and back course. The runners were participants in a 10 week Learn to Run Clinic that focused on fitness through running and had several guest speakers teaching about motivation, nutrition, inspiration and even featured a fashion show. Co-directors Steven Royer and Leslie Dargie were thrilled to have 93 registered in the clinic and that over 65 toed the start line on 5 km Run day we an excellent final result. All clinic runners were presented a certificate of achievement from the CVRR and enjoyed a pot-luck lunch to top it off at the Courtenay Legion. The runners all walked away with smiles after the achievement of their goal: to run 5 km.

   Sunday morning saw a record number of runners and walkers head out on the Comox Valley ½ Marathon course. Co-race directors Brad Crowe and God Delaval were overjoyed at the record crowd and thankful for the cool dry temperatures that made for perfect race conditions on this fast course. A small army of volunteers that included a strong contingent from the Comox Valley Search And Rescue, marshaled the course, manned the start/finish line and prepared the post-race lunch for well over 600 runners. As is tradition, just prior to the countdown to the start, CVRR president Jim Smiley and Race Director Brad Crowe presented donation cheques of $300.00 each to two local charities. This year, Ed Schum of the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition and Margaret Hind of the Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society accepted the donations on behalf of their organizations.

   The ½ Marathon runners were lead out by a pace car donated for the event by Riverside Nissan. In the men’s race, David Jackson of the Prairie Inn Harriers won in a fast time of 1:08.:25 and was followed by Todd Howard (Prairie Inn Harriers) in 1:10:51 and Craig Odermatt of Pacific Athletics in 1:11:22. The first local runner was Neil Holm in 6th place overall (and 2nd master) in 1:14:26. CVRR’s Brad Crowe turned in the club’s fastest time of the day finishing in 20th overall (and 3rd in Men’s 25-29) in 1:22:06. Hot on his heels was Terry Nielson in 21st in 1:22:44 and Frank Graham in 23rd (2nd in Men’s 50-54) in 1:23:01. Wayne Crowe continued to be tops in the Men’s 55-59 division in 1:23:58 and Tom Munro finished 3rd in the Men’s 65-69 division. An Age-group Canadian Record was set in the Men’s 80-99 division by Victoria runner Maurice Tarrant with an amazing time of 1:51:30 beating the old record by 7 minutes!

    Amongst the women, Care Wakley of Frontrunenrs Westshore won in 1:24:16 followed by Nancy Baxendale and Clare Morgan in 1:28:17 and 1:30:13 respectively. Angela Plamondon of the CVRR was 4th (and 2nd in the Women’s 45-49 group) in 1:31:17. Other top CVRR women were Roz Smith with a 1st in the Women’s 60-65 division, Shannon Lebeuf 2nd in the women’s 40-44 group and Kathy Rung with a 3rd in the women’s 35-39 division.

   Large public events require many volunteers to keep them safe and exciting and the CVRR would like to thank all the many volunteers who came out to ensure this weekend was a success. The continuing sponsorship by community business in the Comox Valley was also key making the CV ½ Marathon an event to remember. Full race results are available at www.cvrr.ca.

Breaking News - Comox Valley Half Marathon Results

Results for Sunday's race are now posted.

Click on Island Series at left.

Breaking News - DIRTY DARGIES!!!

Congratulations to Leslie & Crystal for completing the DIRTY DUO  ULTRA last week in North Van. You gals rock !!!

Breaking News - Comox Valley Half Marathon

Race Number Pickup and Late Registration

Saturday: Extreme Runners, 436 5th Ave Courtenay
            Noon - 5pm

Sunday (Race day): Florence Filberg Centre
                   9am - 10:30 am

Breaking News - Post 1/2 Marathon Celebration

For the 1st time in CVRR history, all spots for the Post 1/2 Marathon Celebration at the Atlas have been scooped up & a waiting list has been initiated!

If there's any racer, volunteer or significant other who is still interersted in celebrating with fellow CVRR's following the race this Sunday, they need to email Mary Ann at rolfecounselling@telus.net ASAP!!!!.

A second table (unfortunately in a different section) will then be reserved. 

 

Biographies - My Running Career - Roslyn Smith

My running career started in the mid to late 1960’s when running was a way to get into shape for a sport ...in my case this was field hockey in both high school and university.  We hit the track and the field doing mostly sprints in preparation to picking up the field hockey stick.  Moving into the 1970’s orienteering and cross country skiing was just gaining some popularity as I began teaching in both NS and PEI.    Participaction was in full swing and people were really getting off the couch.
In 1975 I went north to Inuvik to teach grades 7-12 phys. ed.   Running regularly really started for me at this time – wow – now 35 years later.  I competed in x-c ski races and road races.   In 1981 I ran my first marathon in Whitehorse.  I really had no idea how to train.  I ran about 1 ½ to 2 hrs.  every other day.   I was not aware of any training plans.   I did this marathon in 3:51   I was 33 yrs. old then.  I did very few marathons from 1981 to 2003 concentrating on half marathons instead.  Interesting that almost 23 yrs. later I would get my PB at 3:30:51 at the RVM in 2004.   It seemed that I became more competitive as the years went by.
We moved to Comox in the fall of 2005 and at 56 yr. I was finally getting some real training and being able to do it year round in weather that is ideal.    I cross train with biking in the spring/summer and x-c skiing in the winter.
The RVM remains my favourite race along with the Island Series.  I was fortunate to set the record for 60-64 yr. for the Comox Valley Half in 2008 at 1:38:23 and the RVM in 3:33:18.
A running highlight was doing the Boston Marathon in 2009 in a time of 3:36:45 coming 6th overall and 2nd Canadian in the 60-64 yr age group. 
Upcoming marathon planned for is Eugene, Oregon in May 2.  It looks like we have a few folks from the Club keen on going down.
In 2009 I have been ranked #1–in Canada in the marathon and half marathon for women 60-69.

Biographies - Shannon Lebeuf

Discovery - The evolution of a runner

It was never a conscious decision- I didn’t suddenly wake up one morning and decide to be “a runner” It was really something that evolved out of necessity.
I was born in Ontario in 1970, the oldest of 5 children. We lived on a 50 foot sailboat, and spent many years traveling from port to port. As a child I was fairly proficient in most sports and was involved right up into my early teens. But then life gets in the way as it seems to do, and I became busy with my first job, followed by the next job, followed by marriage, followed by motherhood- you get the picture. Any physical activity I had done before was left by the road side and forgotten about. 
As the years rolled by I took up smoking. I got a car when I turned 16 and drove everywhere instead of walking. I gained a pound or two here, a pound or two there, it would just sneak on when you weren’t looking, and then all of a sudden, Bang! Here you are- this lean, fit, healthy person- in this not so lean, not so fit, definitely unhealthy body!! 
Over the years I began to really feel the weight, it was becoming difficult to walk at a brisk pace, and the thought of doing anything physical had me running (figuratively speaking) for the hills! I felt crappy most days and I was tired all the time. And God forbid I had to take my daughter Mandy to the pool and wear a bathing suit!!! I remember walking by a reflective storefront window one day and stopping dead in my tracks - the person I saw staring back at me WASN’T ME, how could I be this heavy woman that looked exactly like my mother??
In 2003 I finally succeeded in quitting my pack a day smoking habit. That was good for another 20 pound weight gain! I had gestational diabetes while I was pregnant and my doctor told me that that put me in a higher risk category. My blood pressure was high, cholesterol too- I was heading down a very dangerous road.
In 2004 I topped out at 198 pounds. I vowed that day that I would never see the scale hit 200, and that it was time to change things or I wouldn’t be around to see my little girl grow up. And what kind of example was I setting for her? I didn’t want her to grow up and end up like me.
So for years I would try various diet plans ( believe me- I tried them ALL) and would “diet” from time to time and lose a little here, lose a little there, but they were too restrictive and I would ultimately gain it all back. I have a bit of an “all or nothing personality” as those who know me might agree... So it was either totally restrictive diet or no diet at all! Pretty hard to live with.  And it was a recipe for failure hard when you love food as much as I do!
I decided then to join a gym. I figured if I could burn up the calories I could eat more (which incidentally is still my philosophy today) I was horrified with all those mirrors- seeing myself from all those different angles was definitely a motivator!! The first time I stepped on a treadmill I could barely walk for 20 minutes. I was exhausted! I went home and cried that day.
But I went back the next day. And the next. And the one after that. Before long, I could pull off a shuffling “jog” for a few minutes.  I was feeling stronger with the weight training, and was losing weight!!  I remember the day I “ran” for 20 minutes without stopping. It was like I had climbed a mountain!
So in 2008 I did what all of you smart people made the wonderful decision to do- joined the Learn to Run clinic!! I started out in level 2, and then moved up to level 3. It was then that I met my mentor- Leslie Dargie- She tucked me under her wing and encouraged me to be who I wanted to be. She was an absolute wealth of information and I probably drove her crazy with questions! She helped me with my training- still does- I still get the “recovery” and “overtraining” speeches on a regular basis!  But without this amazing woman I would not be where I am today.
At the clinic I met so many like minded people, and being surrounded by so many positive, encouraging people was amazing!! I craved all that energy- I wanted what they had! I started running with Leslie’s Tuesday morning group from Extreme runners. Now I was hooked!  I began to think I could actually maybe, dare I say- run a race one day?? Maybe I could! With all that encouragement I felt like I could do anything! I began running longer, more often, faster every time! I registered for my first 5K race and finished in 28 minutes! 
Since then I have completed 3 half marathons, a few hilly 10K’s and a couple of road races. I’m running my first Marathon in May with plans for more after that. I train or crosstrain pretty much every day. I run in the middle of the night, I run in the rain, the snow, the sleet and the sun. I run in the forest and on the road. I run by myself, and I run with great friends and groups of strangers. And I love every second of it. I love when my knee hurts and my Achilles aches, because it reminds me where I am and where I came from and what I can do now. I even love hating it, if that makes any sense at all, because it means I am doing it.  And I especially love finishing a long run!
I look for physical things to do with my family, and try to encourage Mandy to pick the healthy road. It’s been a long struggle, but I’m finally where I want to be. When I look in the mirror these days I feel like the inside finally matches the outside.
Thanks for listening :-)

Biographies - Tom Munro

After I turned age 65, I decided to take the 2007 Fun Run Clinic for the heck of it. After years of sedentary life to my amazement I went from being unable to run 100 meters to being able to run 5k after 10 weeks training.
With support from family, friends and CVRR I have enjoyed running in local races and the Island Series Races. In 2008, I joined 30,000 runners in the Great Ethiopian Run in Addis Ababa. Prior to the race my wife Linda and I were lucky enough to meet the current Men's Marathon World Record holder Haile Gebrselassie while visiting our daughter in Ethiopia.

Biographies - My Running Journey – Eric Martinat

  

I’m extremely fortunate to have had a running journey that has now spanned 33 years. Running has become such a part of who I am that I’d find it very difficult to live without.

   As a 13 year-old just entering high school, I was anxious to find social acceptance and, by chance, happened to meet the coach of the cross-country running team. He told me to come out to practice and give it a go. Our high school was a small country high school with an amazing running program. My first workout consisted of being driven out 4 miles into the country and told to run back to the school. Dressed only in blue jean shorts and “North Star” runners, I managed to make it back but couldn’t walk for a couple days! Grade 9 was difficult but I found acceptance with my new running friends. By grade 10, I was winning road and cross-country races in the Ottawa Valley and by my late teens/early 20’s, I’d worked my way up into national class competitions.

   Eventually career, girlfriend and life took priority and the dream of being an Olympian faded, but running has always been there. As a police officer, no criminal ever out ran me. Running has given me a baseline of strength and endurance that I’ve used to conquer new sports such as Adventure Racing. The mental toughness gleaned from years of long runs was ideally suited for this new demanding sport. I eventually entered several international class races such as Raid the North Extreme and Eco-Challenge.

   Running also allowed me to meet my wife, Robyn, who is also a runner. When we met, she beat me by 4 minutes in a ½ marathon and now she never lets me pass her without a fight! When we moved to Courtenay, we immediately joined the Comox Valley Road Runners and now have many wonderful friends who share our common love of sport. While I don’t set the roads on fire anymore (and I’m not 140lbs anymore either), I still love to race and always push myself as hard as I can. Robyn and I enjoy traveling to marathons around North America and will eventually head to Europe to run as well. I’ve actually lost count, but I’ve run somewhere over 40 marathons and several Ultra-marathons as well.

   Running is part of our lives and the Comox Valley is a beautiful place to enjoy it!

Biographies - My Life In Running - Brad Crowe

My first memory of running is somewhere in middle school. I went on a trip with my French Immersion class to Kamloops for the French Immersion Olympics. We signed up for our events at home before leaving for the trip. I chose the 100m sprint. A friend of mine signed up for the same event, and being young and excited we lined up really early. No warmup, no stretching, just ready to run. We look at each other; no other competitors have shown up yet. This should be a fun race! Quickly our dreams of glory are dashed as giants who already need to shave line up beside us at the startline. Funnily enough I don't even remember the race. The next thing I remember is lunch. We had heard you shouldn't eat before racing, so we held off lunch until after the race. But by then all that was left were a couple whole tomatoes, which we chomped on like apples.

When I was young running was certainly not natural for me. I was the asthmatic kid with the puffer. That's probably why I chose the 100m: it was a realistic goal for me. I feel incredibly lucky now that as I have gotten older my asthma has faded until it no longer seems to be an issue for me. From back then, I never could have imagined myself running as I do now.

I couldn't say when I really started running. There was the odd family jog when I was in highschool. In university I tried to get a nice jog in a couple times a week, if I happened to think of it. A few times coming home from university coincided with local races (5th street mile, and nautical days 4 miler) so my dad brought me along with him to the race. I felt nervous and out of place, watching with amusement as he seemed to know everyone.

It was Wayne who got me into running. He gave up golf and became a runner, so it became a family event to go and watch dad at races like the Victoria marathon. I don't know why, but I absolutely loved watching the races. The atmosphere was always so positive, and it really amazed me how runners would show such gratitude for some cheering and applause.

I moved to England for a year and at the same time decided that I would train for a half marathon. My goal was to run the Victoria Half Marathon when I came back. I started to build up my running but before long I had a knee injury, and had to stop doing pretty much anything physical for a while. Very frustrating. Later in the year my knee was feeling good so I decided to try again. This was in the summer and since I was in Europe I took advantage and travelled all over for about 6 weeks. During this time I ran about every second day. It was fantastic. I got to see so many things that I wouldn't have otherwise, like little markets, interesting side-streets, and parks. This is still one of the highlights of running for me. When I got back to Canada I was just about to enter the RVM Half when I injured my knee once again. I had felt like everything was on track and going well, so I was pretty crushed and didn't run much for about the next year.

Eventually I was looking for something different to do, and Wayne suggested coming out to the Thursday night trail run. I tried it and instantly loved it. It was a fun and social group, as well as being on some beautiful wooded trails. This was the seed that sparked my renewed interest in running. From Thursday trails I started slowly adding in more runs to my week, and decided that it was time to run my Half Marathon. Coincidentally my youngest brother had decided the same thing. Wayne gave both of us tips on how to train, and before we knew it Jeff and I were lined up at the start of the RVM Half. We both had great runs and great experiences, and I suddenly had a taste for racing. I started doing more races with the group from CVRR through the year, culminating with the Kusam Klimb (a mountain trail half-marathon) and my first marathon, the Royal Victoria Marathon in 2009. My real interest and passion is still being on the trails. This is what keeps me running. I'm looking forward to running my first trail ultra-marathon in the summer.

Stardom

Ha! How embarassing.

Training: I think the biggest thing for me has been to have a plan, but stay flexible. Having a plan helps to get me out the door and gives me a focus. But the reality is that sometimes things don't work out as planned and there's no point stressing about it. Take the plan and adjust and adapt. Another thing which has really helped me is people. Having people to run with helps to get me out the door when I'm just not feeling it. Having people to talk with can also make a run incredibly enjoyable. I always look forward to getting out for a long run with friends or family.

Part of the beauty of running, to me, is that there are endless milestones. And to me, stardom is when we push ourselves to a new level. I am always excited when I was able to run farther or for longer than I ever had before. Personal records are another really exciting milestone. Whoever it is, and no matter how fast or slow, it is always special to see someone run faster than they have ever run before.

However, every day is different and that's why I like to set three goals. This is a system that my dad explained to me. The first goal is a reasonable goal that you would like to achieve. The second is the ideal case goal where all the stars align and everything goes perfectly. The third goal is the minimum that you would still be satisfied with achieving. Depending on the circumstances, conditions, and how you are feeling you adjust for which of these goals you will shoot for.

The person who got me into running was definitely Dad. I remember seeing him out with his running gang and thinking that they were crazy. But at the same time I thought it was pretty cool.

Biographies - Helen Jackson

Helen Jackson

 Before I came to the Comox Valley in 1992, I didn’t really know that regular, ordinary people like me did things like run marathons—or even 10 K’s.  I had run a few miles training for the Tahsis Great Walk in 1991, but just to break up the long walking distance.  I had even jogged a couple of miles or more on a regular basis during my first pregnancy, because I was leading a group of women in aquatic exercises, up in Tahsis, and started adding in some light jogging for them.  When I got my first full time teaching position in 1993, I inherited the task of taking 47 people to Japan the following spring—32 of them grade eight and nine students!  Realizing that I’d be getting pretty well no sleep for ten days, I decided that I’d better get in shape just to survive.  That’s when I signed up for my first running clinic with the Comox Valley Road Runners.  I didn’t understand much about pacing back then, and I was also always wiped at the end of a school week, so I’d do the clinic run in the morning and then go home and go back to bed.  I couldn’t understand how people could be heading off on family outings after the clinic session.  I did get into reasonable shape, though, and did survive the Japan trip.  I kept up my running until summer time then somehow let it go. 
            The following January I returned to the clinic.  This time I joined the running club as well, and in the spring got on as a last-minute recruit for an Island Relay team.  I was hooked.  For fifteen years, recreational running has provided me with so much:  fitness, friends, all sorts of social activities, and of course the sheer joy of running.  I remember the particular fall day when I came out of my school and realized that I was thinking, “I get to run today.”   And it was a happy thought.  Running was no longer a chore; it was a delight.  At that time I seldom got in more than two runs a week as I struggled to cope with the demands of work and parenting.  But I stuck with it.  It was my one outlet.  For many years I enjoyed doing the Island Series of races.  They provided motivation and a lot of camaraderie.  Other highlights of the last fifteen years are Tuesday track, adventure runs, hill training, trails, breakfast runs, polar bear run-and-swims, and of course, more relays.  In 1999, I trained for my first marathon.  That summer I spent a month in Japan , but I was able to head out in the early morning hours to get my training runs in.  I also climbed Mt. Fuji , and guess what I saw when I was walking around the crater:  That’s right; a group of crazy runners who were racing up and down the 3776 meter mountain!  I guess some of their spirit rubbed off on me, because I ended up half running, half glissading down the mountainside, slip-sliding in the deep, crumbled volcanic rock with two young Japanese fellows whom I’d asked directions from.  We were laughing and having a great time as we sort of skied our way down, using our souvenir hiking sticks to maintain our balance.    
Life as a runner is not without its darker moments, however.  Like most runners, I’ve had my share of injuries, although they were generally not from running.  During recuperation times I was saved by being able to help out at races and walk around the track during Tuesday night track sessions.  The support from fellow runners was the best! 
In more recent years I have moved away from races but not from running.  I hike, backpack, bike, cross country ski, and snowshoe, and find that running provides me with a fitness base that pays off for all these other fantastic activities.  Last August I experienced the thrill of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania .  There wasn’t a moment on that trip that I didn’t fully appreciate my running background.  Somehow, running gives me much more than just fitness, though.  Whether I’m chugging along on the dark, rainy sidewalks of Comox, through beautiful Seal Bay Park trails, or down the exotic byways of some far-off place, while I run my muscles do their thing and my mind gets to take a free-wheeling, unimpeded vacation. 

Biographies - Diane Palmason

Diane’s Running Story

I will be 72 years old on Monday, March 15, 2010.  My first memory of running, and loving it, was a Sunday school race in Calgary in 1945.  That was 65 years ago.  I didn’t realize it at the time, but I now know that I was born to run.  That I did not run for all of those 65 years reflects the fact that I faced barriers and challenges.  That I can claim a total of 42 years as a runner reflects that I was able to overcome many of these barriers and challenges.
Early informal races across the park told me not only that it was fun to run, but also that I could run pretty fast, and keep going for a pretty long time.  However, there was no such thing as organized track and road racing for kids in those days, so running was just something to do while playing games like hide-and-seek and kick-the-can.   
My family moved to Montreal in 1950, and I started high school.  The highlight of my grade 8 year was “making” the Junior track team.  At the one track meet of our “season” I was invited to join the Mercury Athletic Club, an all-girl track team.  Joy!  We practiced twice a week at the track near my school, and ran in local, provincial and even national track meets from May to August each year.  In 1954 it was in international meet – the Commonwealth Games.  At 16 years, I was a member of the Canadian team, and ran the 220 yard dash.  
This was exciting, but frustrating too.  It was at that meet that I realized I didn’t have the true speed needed to excel at the elite level.  I was slow off the start and always trying to catch up.  Whenever I could keep going, usually racing with the boys, I felt better.  Running all the way around the track (440 yards) or even circling it twice (the Half) or four times (the Mile) was really exciting, especially in 1954, the year of the Four Minute Mile.  But girls and women weren’t allowed to run that far.  We were told that it was too hard for us.  Only boys and men had the strength and endurance to run all the way around the track, and even on down the road for 26 or so miles, as in a marathon.  
It was the ‘50s.  Women didn’t protest.  We did what was expected of us, me included.  In 1955 I moved on to Queen’s in Kingston , Ont.  There was no university track for girls at any distance in those days.  I decided that my running days were over.  I went from undergraduate to graduate school, married in 1960, and had three children in the next eight years.  The only running I did was to keep up with the kids.  
By 1968, I was living in the Toronto area.  Somehow the book “Aerobics” came to my attention.  I was 30 years old – could I still be fit?  Following the book’s program I was soon earning my 15 points a week by jogging around the neighbourhood at night, after the kids were in bed.  I was always alone, except for my standard poodle of that era, Muff. This didn’t bother me.  Running on the streets was not “done” at that time, but it felt so good that it became the best time of the day for me.  
Until I realized that I was pregnant again.  Women did NOT run, or do any other kind of exercise, while pregnant in ‘60s and ‘70s.  My second running career came to an end after little more than a year of earning my 15 aerobic points a week.  My fourth child was born in the fall of 1970.  Despite a busy household of four kids under the age of 8, increasing problems with back pain, and yet another move, I gave running another try – running career #3.  The Aerobics book told me that if I could run 4 laps of a track in 12 minutes I could consider myself fit.  I had gone back to my evening runs with Muff, and I decided to find out if they were doing any good.  At the local track I covered those four laps in under 8 minutes.  I was fit!  But I was also hurting.  My children were wonderful, but my marriage was a disaster, and my back gave me constant pain.  In an attempt to save the marriage we moved again – to the Ottawa area.  End of running career #3.  
By 1974, though my children were thriving, my marriage had gone from bad to worse, and so had my back.  I learned that my pain was due to a congenital structural problem that could only be resolved through surgery.  On January 2, 1975 I had a spinal fusion.  By June my surgeon declared the fusion to be solid.  He encouraged me to walk or swim, but warned that running was to be avoided.  He didn’t know that I had read a report of the woman who won the inaugural National Capital Marathon in May; and that I’d also heard about a masters track meet to be held in Toronto that summer.  Women could run 26.2 miles?  People in their 40s and older could run in track meets?  How exciting!  I wanted to do both.  
I couldn’t get to that big Masters track meet in Toronto .  But I did join an Ottawa track club and even ran a 1500 meters race ( Canada had gone metric by then): almost the mile race I had longed for as a teen.  I was 37.  The next spring I ran my first road race ever – that National Capital Marathon.  I had done all six weeks of my training alone.  In the aftermath of the marathon I was invited to join the National Capital Runners Association (NCRA).  This was a whole new world for me.  The NCRA runners encouraged and supported me, and gave me a sense of myself as more than just a wife and a mother.  I was a runner, and one with gifts I had only been dimly aware of.  I looked at life in a new way, and finally had the courage to end my marriage.  
Through all the pain and stress that followed, I found relief by just putting on my shoes and running out the door.  Lots of that running led to all kinds of successes for me, mostly in road races at first, and then back on the track by 1979 (see photo # X).   
There were other stresses, of course.  I went through a litany of running–related injuries, from a stress fracture to knee pain,  shin splints, Achilles problems and the dreaded plantar fascia.  In each case I was able to pinpoint a cause, rectify it, and carry on.  Sometimes I was stopped by accidents.  I was knocked down while running a crowded 10K race in NYC in 1983, suffering a heel fracture.  I hit the exercise and road bikes, and recovered to run most of my personal bests in 1984, at the age of 46.   
In 1988 I was stopped again, this time by a combination of stresses that led to a flu-like condition that brought my running to a halt.  It was a struggle just to get out of bed.  The silver lining here was that one of the running coaches in the area, who also happened to be responsible for coaching education with the Canadian Track and Field Association, recruited me to help him coach his teams of girls at Ottawa U and with the Ottawa Harriers.   He mentored me through my coaching certification.  Now running could be my vocation as well as my avocation.  
In 1990 I overcame the stresses that had grounded me by quitting my exciting but demanding job with Sport Canada, ending my second marriage, marrying my husband Ernie, and moving to Colorado .  I got back to running, both on the road and on the track.  Becoming part of the running community in the Denver area gave me new friends, and clients.  Coaching adult runners became almost full-time for me.  The rest of my small but so-satisfying income coming from the Women’s Running Camps that I created  with another woman runner and coach.  She is still one of my best friends, even though we ended the camps in 2001.  
By that time Ernie and I had moved to Blaine , WA to be closer to my aging mother in Sydney .  Once again, coaching and racing gave me my livelihood, and a great group of new running friends in the Greater Bellingham Running Club.  My own running was going well and, in 2003 at the age of 65, I had one of my most successful record-breaking seasons.  By 2005 this was just a memory, as I encountered strange, new health problems.  But I kept running, at first just to stay fit, and then, by 2008, to get back in competition in my new 70+ age category.  
In the interim, Ernie and I had moved to the Comox Valley , and into the fold of yet another great running community, led by the Comox Valley Road Runners (CVRR).
For reasons the medical community seemed unable to identify, I was having increasing difficulties running the longer distances on the road.  However, I could still meet some of my goals in the shorter distances on the track.  Back to the 200 meters – shades of the 220s I had run as a teen.  Then, in the fall of 2009, I had an answer to my mysterious health symptoms; and a pace maker to overcome my heart’s unfortunate tendency to “pause” for a few seconds every now and then, probably due to genetic factors.  
Now, in the winter of 2010, while I’ve recovered from the pacemaker surgery, I am dealing with aftereffects of cataract surgery – and the stresses of yet another move.  This, I’m determined, will be our last move, to a small rancher in Comox with a beautiful view of the Beauforts.   Through all this I walk or run every day – usually with my best companion, our standard poodle Willow .  Will I go back to racing?  I don’t know.  But whether I do or not, I know I will go on running.  Though I have run so many, many miles on my own since I got back to running in 1975, I have never felt alone as a runner.  Running groups in Ottawa , Denver , Bellingham , and now here in the Comox Valley have welcomed me and made me feel at home, and content with my identity as a runner.    
A concluding anecdote.  Sometime in the late ‘70s I attended a parent-teacher meeting for my younger son, who would have been about nine at the time.  She regarded me somewhat curiously, then informed that, in filling in a blank for “Mother’s Occupation” on a school form, he had written “Runner”.  He had that right.

Biographies - Frank Graham

Running Story – Frank Graham

What motivated me to to start running?  And more importantly, what keeps me running?  I ran my first four miler in Comox when I was 13. Why did I run that day?  That was 39 years ago, how the heck am I supposed to remember that far back? 
I ran very little between that race and my  first Marathon in 1980.  Sure I played lots of other sports to keep fit, but running wasn't something I did on a consistent basis.  I'd show up at races and I ran on what mileage I was getting by running with my dog on the beach and on the Fraser road loop when we felt like it.
What really kept me fit at this time was playing tackle football age 15 to  18. There couldn't have been a sport I was more unsuited for but there were no cross county teams at the time and all my friends played.
I was by far the smallest on the field and usually got the first sweep of the game at my defensive back position on the hot right corner. I went on to receive 2 trophies for Top Defensive back in my first 2 years, and Rookie of the Year in my third year.
Here I learned that if worked hard enough, was fast enough, and out-thought the big boys I could do almost anything in life regardless of my small size.
I ran my first marathon in 1980 to get in shape and impress the UVIC Phys. Ed. department so that I would get accepted into their Program (only 42 students were accepted).  I just squeaked in as a mature student ( I was 22).  Here, for the first time in my life I had to set goals, make a training plan, carry out the training plan through good times and bad, and believe in what I was doing when others lost faith. 
At this time I was coaching softball, kids 10 to 12.  This was my first experience transferring my skills as a runner to another sport.  Skills like setting goals, making a training plan, caring out a training plan through good times and bad  and believing you will achieve when others lose faith.
Yes, I had found a strategy that would get me through university, get a job and get pretty much anything that I put my mind to.  Skills learned on the run. At the end of 3 years coaching the kids, we won the championship cup and the parents bought me a coach of the year trophy even though there wasn't one provided by the league.  I have a bond with those kids and parents that will last a lifetime.
During my first 3 years at UVIC, I trained hard and tried out for the cross-country team. During that time, in Courtenay, I was winning races or at least finishing in the top 3. However, at UVIC each year I was finishing top ninth or tenth in qualifying races (they only took the top 8). 
At the time I was quite disappointed that I was just missing being selected for the team, but now I see things very differently.  Even though my all-time personal best of 16:50 5k, 35:20 10k and 1:15 half marathon wasn't fast enough to meet the short term goal of the day, what an incredible experience I had. 
Working out and racing with some of the best coaches and runners in Canada was a privilege  I fondly remember. Coach Ron Bowker still cheers me on at races and gives me racing tips.
Looking back at my scrapbook,  I see it just highlights all my ribbons, trophies and  newspaper writeups.  But that really isn't the story at all.  My involvement in sport has always been about relationships I've built with my fellow teammates and competitors.
I have no pictures of all  many training partners on so many wonderful  long training runs, or the after-run socials.  As I think back, these are the memories I cherish  the most.  The stories and jokes we'll exchange at track, doing hills, pool running  or on the long ride back from Victoria, these are the things that have always motivated me to run and always will..
I have to go now so that I can catch up on news with Mary on a run and show her this story afterwards  over coffee.

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