Madison Marathon Profile: Gowtham

Gowtham is an HPC Research Scientist, an Adjunct Assistant Professor in Physics and Electrical and Computer Engineering and NSF XSEDE Campus Champion at Michigan Technological University. He is also an avid runner and Madison Marathon finisher. 

An accomplished researcher, Gowtham (34), who adheres to a south Indian tradition of using a single name, is a research scientist and Adjunct Assistant Professor of physics at  Michigan Tech University in Houghton, Michigan. His interests include photography and exploring wilderness and natural beauty. He makes the 6-plus hour drive from Michigan's Upper Penninsula (informally known in the Upper Midwest as the "Yoop") to Madison to run the Madison Marathon with friends. Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about why he runs.

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Focal Flame Photography: How many Madison Marathons have you run?

Gowtham: 1 in November 2013

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have  you run?

Gowtham:  3 so far

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?

Gowtham: I am slowly training toward my first triathlon in 2015.

Gowtham's Personal Story

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?

Gowtham: The feeling of community and belonging to one, even though I might not be living in it on a daily basis. It's a very humbling experience to see unselfish support from people I have never seen before and/or might never see again. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  

Gowtham: I have many friends from Michigan Tech that are either from Green Bay, Madison, or the Milwaukee area or have moved there since their graduation, and I don't to get to see them as often as I would like. The decision to participate in Madison Marathon was based on wanting to visit and spend some quality time with them.

What makes the overall experience special is the overall ambiance and atmosphere of the event. It is, the first of my 'big city' races and the biggest of the races I have either volunteered or participated in. The awesomeness of the course that winds through friendly residential and scenic areas alike, and the support I receive from the volunteers, aid stations, police officers, and people who make fantastic signs to cheer racers on makes this the most memorable half marathon event outside the "Yoop."

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?

Gowtham: Most of my races have been with friends. For Madison Marathon 2013, we were a group of five friends varying in experience from novice to experienced half marathon, triathlon, and IronMan competitors. Other friends cooked for us the night before and seemed to be present with their cheerful faces at every major turn. Running and being with them helps me bond and learn more about them.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?

Gowtham: It's money well spent and an experience one cannot easily forget.  I have done one other big city half marathon with even more registered racers but it wouldn't even hold a candle to Madison Marathon's finish area experience. The Madison Marathon is something I will never forget – crossing the finish line, I felt like a hero in the ancient Roman Colosseum  (even at shabby 2 hour 43 minutes).

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?

Gowtham: I am very passionate about my work and devote insanely long hours to it but I am grateful to the friends I have who share their knowledge and expertise and make me a better person overall. I want to get better as a runner. Running has certainly changed my life and life style -- helping me learn more about myself and everyone around me.

- article by Deborah Proctor

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon Event May 24-25 and/or November 9, 2014.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Athlete Profile: Michele Prieve Wilkinson

A dedicated runner, triathlete, and cancer survivor, Michele Prieve Wilkinson shares an embrace after a successful IronMan race.

Running can create superheroes. Just ask Michele Prieve Wilkinson (45) of Milton, Wisconsin, who ran her first 5K in 2003 to raise money for a friend with breast cancer. On 9/22/2008 the disease struck even closer to home when Michele herself was diagnosed with cancer. A fitness manager for an athletic club, she continues to beat cancer by crossing the finish line of every race she enters - persevering each time in honor of a cancer survivor. Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.

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Q&A with Milton, WI runner Michele Prieve Wilkinson

Focal Flame Photography: How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run

Wilkinson: I have run the Madison Half Marathon six times.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?

Wilkinson: Two full marathons and sixteen half marathons.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? What are a few of your favorites?

Wilkinson:  I have participated in two IronMans and three half IronMans. My favorites are Madison Marathon, Wisconsin Marathon, and IronMan Wisconsin.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?

Wilkinson: I finish every race I enter.

Michele's Story

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?

Wilkinson: I really enjoy events in the Madison area as it was my hometown for 38 years.  It is truly an incredible city and it makes my heart happy to run on the streets of such a beautiful community.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?

Wilkinson: For the past 5.5 years I have run almost every race wearing a pink cape to celebrate being a breast cancer survivor.  Each race I run in honor of a cancer survivor, to celebrate them and all they have been through.  This keeps me present during a race. When times get tough I remind myself that they cannot give up, so I can't give up either and I can push through for a short time. 

I typically do all races with a friend but this year I am challenging myself to run this marathon solo.  I will be racing every race in honor of my father, E. Arthur (Al) Prieve, who passed away on March 19. I can't think of a better way to celebrate the incredible life that he led than to run through the streets that he called home for 50+ years.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?

Michelle: The race is extremely well run, the course is beautiful and Madison is a great place to be!

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share? 

Wilkinson: I ran my very first 5K, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, in 2003.  That race sparked my love for running and in turn was there to support me from my diagnosis forward.  That race (and diagnosis) makes me want to continue to live life to the fullest! Distance running makes me feel alive — my goal is to finish each race that I enter, having the best time possible.  Let's face it, I won't ever "win", but when I cross the finish line I have beaten cancer one more time ... so, yes, I have "won" many races. :)

- article by Deborah Proctor

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon Event May 24-25 and/or November 9, 2014.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Athlete Profile: Joe Kilkus

Madison runner Joe Kilkus at the 2013 Lake Monona 20K race. Photo (c) 2013 Focal Flame Photography Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Wondering who is in contention to win the 2014 Madison Half-Marathon on May 25? Joe Kilkus (25) of Madison, Wisconsin is a runner to watch as he seeks to repeat his win from 2013. Kilkus used the 2011 Spring Madison Half Marathon to "test the waters" for his first full marathon in the fall. He loved kicking off his spring training with this event so much that he ran it again in 2012 and raced to victory in 2013. Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about why he runs.

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Q&A with Madison, WI runner Joe Kilkus

Focal Flame Photography: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?

Kilkus: Running means a lot to me.  I really enjoy being able to just throw on a pair of shoes and forget about everything but running for an hour or so.  I was the slowest guy on my college team as a freshman, and every year after that I kept improving so I started to love running more and more.  By my senior year I was finishing in the middle of the pack for most races. I guess I wasn't ready to be done competing.  Participating in events like the Madison half marathon is how I continue to compete not only against others but also against myself.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  

Kilkus: After graduating from college in 2010 I decided I wanted to run longer races, and when I moved to Madison I found the Madison Marathon fit perfectly into my spring training plans. The race has a bit of sentimental value to me since it was my first half marathon, so every year since then this has been my big race for the spring where I really want to perform at my best.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?

Kilkus: I do have a lucky jersey that I wear when I want to run really well and need a little bit of extra good luck.  Most people don't expect to see a guy racing in a purple Utah Jazz basketball jersey, so it's also a nice way to get cheers and support from people who don't already know me.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?

Kilkus:  Get ready for the hills.  It's a pretty fun course, but those hills are really tough.

Summary of Race Results & Personal Accomplishments

FFP: How many Madison Marathon events have you run? How many total marathons or half-marathons have you run? 

Kilkus: 4 Madison half-Marathons — Spring 2011, 2012, 2013 / Fall 2013; Spring 2014 will be my 5th. I have also run 2 Marathons (Twin Cities 2011 and 2013).

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?

Kilkus:  Men's winner of the 2013 Madison Spring half marathon.  Ran 2:34:36 at Twin Cities marathon 2013.

- article by Deborah Proctor

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon Event May 24-25 and/or November 9, 2014.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Athlete Profile: Jason Kasperski

Jason Kasperski (37) of Madison, Wisconsin, has chosen to "Conquer the Capitol," a Madison Marathon series featuring a back-to-back twilight 10K on May 24, followed by a half-marathon May 25; he will complete the series with his first full marathon on November 9. Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about why he runs.

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FFP: How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?

Jason Kasperski, shown at the UW Running Club Valentine's 5k with daughter Brittney. Photo credit:  Krissy Schintgen

Jason: One — I completed my first half Madison Marathon in November 2013. I will be running the Parkinson's Half this spring as well as the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon in May. I am looking forward to my first full Madison Marathon in November.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?

Jason: When I started running in August of 2012 distance running was the furthest thing from my mind, I was only focused on losing weight. By March of 2013 I had lost 100 pounds and was looking to run my first half marathon.

PLEASE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL STORY:

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?

Jason:  After I hit my weight loss goal, I decided I would run a marathon for each of the surgeries my daughter had. I look forward to presenting her with her first medal after crossing the Madison Marathon finish line in November. 

FFP: If it is not too personal, please tell me a little more about your daughter and how she motivates you.

Jason: Brittney (8) was born with Spina Bifida.  She is in a wheelchair but is able to walk short distances with a walker. To date she has had 18 surgeries ranging from ear tubes to open heart and brain surgery, to most recently a spinal fusion.

One icy day, I took her on a run around Lake Monona with my run group and she loved it. We ran in the UW Running Club Valentine's 5k together (she beat me by a hair). I hope to run with her in more races. 

I started a Facebook page earlier this year that tells a bit of Brittney's story.

 FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?

Jason:  I chose the Madison Marathon as my first marathon from a logistical standpoint.  Living in Madison, it was a no brainer. I love the sights of the city and am familiar with most of the course.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?

Jason: Running with friends always helps with training, but when it comes to a race, I run for my daughter – that holds me accountable to do my best.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?

Jason: The same thing I tell myself — Prepare for it. Train hard and have fun.

FFP: You have chosen to "Conquer the Capitol" – a back- to-back twilight 10K and half marathon in the spring and a full marathon in the fall. Briefly, what would you tell other racers about participating in this race?

Jason: This will be my first time attempting it.  I would say, push yourself, you never know what you can achieve.

- article by Deborah Proctor

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon Event May 24-25 and/or November 9, 2014.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Athlete Profile: Lisa Hayes, Pardeeville Triathlon

by Deborah Proctor

When you live in IRONMAN Wisconsin territory, it is not surprising to learn that triathlons are more popular than ever before. If you drive the roads of Dane County late afternoons and weekends, it is impossible not to come upon runners and bikers in bright colored jerseys getting their training time in. 

Exponential growth in the sport is not just a Dane County phenomenon. According to USA Triathlon, a membership organization that tracks the figures on this cross discipline sport, triathlon participation is at an all time high in the US, experiencing double digit growth for 8 of the past 10 years. According to a survey by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) nearly 2 million individuals competed in at least one triathlon in 2011.

Who are triathletes? Their average age is 38, with the majority of participants between the ages of 25 and 50. Nearly 60% are male; 40% are female. While triathletes pursue a wide variety of lifestyles and occupations, most are married, and many have children at home and work in office settings.

That description fits Lisa Hayes, from Waterloo, WI, who participated in her first Triathlon on her 37th birthday, on July 6, 2013. I asked Lisa about her first race. Here is what she shared with me (FFP):

FFP: What  was your inspiration/motivation to enter thePardeeville Triathlon?  "A woman I work with who has done many, many triathlons was forming a "team" and since the race fell on my birthday I thought it would be a nice way to challenge myself.  I am primarily a runner...a slow one and always said I could never do a triathlon, but being encouraged by others convinced me and I made the jump." 

FFP: When did you decide to do the Tri and how did you prepare? "I did not decide to do the event until late April. That did not give me much time to prepare.  My game plan was to do each sport 2x/week at the minimum."

"I really enjoyed the cross training. I think it helped my running a bit. But I am an awful swimmer! A friend who had some swim coaching gave me some pointers.  I also made sure to do some open water swimming and even participated in one Aquathon. Just something to work on for my next tri."

FFP: What was your biggest challenge to competing in this race? "Open water swimming.  I can do it but I panic and then just breast stroke, which is not very fast or efficient."

FFP: What was the best thing about competing in the Pardeeville Tri?"Seeing my husband and kids along the course and at the finish line!"

When asked how she felt about all the hard work and training, culminating in her first triathlon, Lisa expressed the attitude of many first timers who nervously eye the water course and then say, "I am as ready as I am going to be...now it is just time to enjoy."

Did competing inspire Lisa to compete in future events?"Absolutely," she replied,"I am thinking of doing the (Race Day Events) tri series next year.  I am also planning on doing the Waterloo Fit City Tri, Color Me Rad (purely for fun), and the Haunted Hustle."
 

As a first time triathlete, Lisa was thrilled that race organizer, Race Day Events in conjunction with Focal Flame Photography provided complimentary photos as part of her race packet. "The photos were awesome!  I was so excited that they were complimentary too...that NEVER happens in a race!

She added,"If I had to pick between 2 races on the same day...I would pick the Race Day event."

In a follow up email to Ryan Griessmeyer at Race Day Events, Lisa said in part, "Thanks for sponsoring Pardeeville Triathlon race photos from Focal Flame Photography!...This was my first triathlon that I have ever done!  It is so awesome that I get some great pictures to go with my experience!  Thank you!!!!"

In the end, Lisa declared the Pardeeville Triathlon an "Amazing experience!"  and a "Great way to spend my birthday!" It doesn't get much better than that.

So how about you? Do you, like Lisa, feel that you could never do a triathlon? Does her experience encourage you to "tri"? Tell us why or why not on Facebook, Google+, or Twitter!

Lake Mills Triathlon: Debra Vaughan

by Deborah Proctor

Lake Mills Triathlon | June 2, 2013: When Debra Vaughan awoke early that morning it was overcast, windy, and cold. But it was a race day, the first triathlon event of the season, and she was ready to go. A couple hours later, she and her friend Beth were standing on the beach at Lake Mills watching the waves as the wind churned them into a frenzy, choppy enough to capsize even the lifeguards' boats.

We caught up with Debra shortly after the race to get her thoughts on the Lake Mills Triathlon and what motivates her to race competitively.

Focal Flame (FFP): When did you start competing in triathlons?

Debra (DV): In 2009, the year my first child was born.  My gym wasn’t going to work anymore, so my gym friends and I decided to do Devil’s Challenge as a post partum goal and way to stay together.

FFP: Other than Lake Mills, what other triathlons have you competed in?  

DV: Wisconsin Triterium Triathlon (WTT), Devil’s Challenge, and Ironman Branson 70.3. [Editor's Note: The photo of Debra at right is from the 2013 Lake Monona 20KRace.]

FFP: What motivates you to participate in something as challenging as a triathlon?

DV: I participate in sport, in general, to be an example to both my children and also extended family who have started getting in shape after watching me.I can get bored with just “going out for a run” so the triathlon is a good mix of events and...having an event to train for gets me out the door.

FFP: What do you enjoy most about the sport?

DV: Every race morning I wake up wondering why I do this. Every race start I look at the water and think “this is going to be long and hurt” and after every start horn I forget it all and have a great time!You meet so many fun people on race day and only a handful are competitive, the rest of you are swapping stories and helping each other across the finish line.

FFP: What challenges have you had to overcome in order to compete in this sport?

DV: My personal challenge has been learning that I can do much more than I ever thought I could.  You have to learn to wrap your mind around that many miles; to prepare for hundreds of different scenarios; to push yourself to get out even if you don’t want to.

FFP: Who/what is your greatest encouragement or support(er)?  

DV: My husband, Dave, hands down, especially for the 70.3 which came only 5 months after my son was born. There is no way that race could have been done without him behind me 110%. He not only watches the kids without complaint, he is my coach, my therapist, and my biggest fan.

FFP: The weather for the Lake Mills Tri was pretty nasty causing cancellation of the swim portion for some athletes. How did this affect you personally?

DV: Most of us didn’t get to swim. My friend and I looked at the water and said, “This isn’t our only race (we are signed up for a series of six races this season), we have nothing to prove,” so we went out for a training ride and run on the course instead. 

Race organizers,Race Day Events(RDE), cancelled the swim before any of the age group waves.* After we got back we learned we made the same call as the race director, just earlier. I'm glad they made the call.  And I was glad we all got to go out even if it wasn’t a true Tri.  I don’t pay money, get up that early, and drive an hour just to go home.

FFP: Is there anything else you would like to add?

DV: I am very pleased, overall, with RDE. They put on nice events and have a lot to offer. It has been remarkable of RDE to include awesome race photos in our race fee — pictures mean a lot! I don’t know of any other event that does that for you. I have recently gotten to meet Clint from Focal Flame Photography; now he congratulates me when I cross the finish line, which is fun.

FFP: Will you compete in this event again next year?

DV: Yes! It WAS a very nice course and I look forward to doing the whole thing on a nice day.

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*Behind the Scenes Story: I asked Race Day Events organizers Ryan and Lauren Griessmeyer about the challenging weather conditions the day of the Lake Mills Triathlon. Here is what they and Jon Krupa, President/Owner of Sports Management Associates, Inc.(SMA), in charge of timing the event, had to say.

Race Day Events (RDE): Race day "conditions were difficult (even for the strong swimmers)and many changes happened before the event...The direction of travel through the course was changed to minimize swimming directly into the wind and waves... After four waves of swimmers, 20+ persons rescued from the water, and two capsized lifeguards, the decision was made to cancel the swim to ensure the safety of all participants, lifeguards, and race staff."

Jon Krupa, SMA: Lake Mills created a "unique situation where some participants had already swum while others had not. This was a major record keeping (statistical) challenge because the swim and bike are on the same timers. Fortunately, I had extra equipment along and was able to record non-swim waves separately. The challenge was to merge all the data to make results be as fair as possible under the circumstances while managing the integrity of data."

RDE adds: "SMA is the premier event timing business in the Midwest. Changing the format...during the event causes all kinds of problems for timing and scoring.  Jon from SMA... re-formatted the database and scored the event with no major problems and no delays.  This is not an easy feat and cannot be done by just anyone.  The SMA team saved the accuracy and integrity of the event."

"The right people for the right job," is what Focal Flame Photographer, Clint Thayer, calls RDE and SMA. "The racers could have been sent home, but the team found a way to make things happen and gave them something." Focal Flame Photography is proud to partner with Race Day Events and Sports Management Associates,  "can do" companies who make the most of a difficult situation.

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Girls on the Run: Meredith Rhodes Carson on Coaching Confidence

By any measure, there is a need for strong girls in the world. Meeting this need requires guidance from one generation to the next. Arising from humble beginnings as a running and self-empowerment program for thirteen elementary-aged girls in 1996, Girls on the Run has exploded into an international effort involving over 130,000 girls and 55,000 volunteers across over 200 cities. Girls meet twice weekly for 10 to 12 weeks to train for a 5k run and talk about topics ranging from what positive self-image means to how to deal with bullying.

But despite the magnitude of Girls on the Run International, at the local level it all comes down to the individuals who make it happen: volunteer coaches.

One such volunteer is Meredith Rhodes Carson, Girls on the Run coach for a team at Thoreau Elementary School in Madison, Wisconsin. Carson has a tremendous depth and range of experience: PhD-level consulting in explorative geology, professional health coaching for brides-to-be, and mother of two active young children.

Focal Flame Photography writer and co-owner Robyn Perrin recently followed up with Carson about some of her experiences as a Girls on the Run coach.

Robyn Perrin / Focal Flame Photography: For those who aren't familiar with the Girls on the Run (GOTR) program, what's involved in a typical practice?

Meredith Rhodes Carson: GOTR practice is divided into several parts; a brief introduction where we discuss the main topic of the lesson (i.e., healthy eating), a getting on board/warm-up where we explore the topic a bit deeper and get the girls moving by playing a short game (i.e., softball, where they are 'pitched' questions about healthy eating), a quick stretch and strengthening routine, and then the actual workout which involves running/walking laps around the practice area.  To wrap up, the girls recognize each other with 'energy awards' and we end with our GOTR cheer.  

FFP: What inspired you to become a GOTR coach?

Carson: There are a couple of things that inspired me to become a GOTR coach.  When I was growing up, I had some serious issues with self-esteem.  I remember going through a funk (which I would call depression today) in middle school; I was bullied on the school bus, I had a hard time finding real friends, and my mom was facing her own demons at the time.  Fast forward to today: I'm raising a 9-year-old daughter and I desperately want to make sure she has the tools to deal with the stressors of growing up and the confidence to know that she is awesome and that no one should convince her otherwise.  I also wanted to find a way to volunteer in my community - in a way that would help me to grow.  Coaching GOTR has been a great learning experience for me.

FFP: What has been the most rewarding aspect of coaching? 

Carson: I think that the most rewarding aspect of coaching has been to see the girls change over the course of 10 weeks.  I see leaders emerging, I see confidence being gained, I see compassion, I see friends choosing to be in situations that make them happy, I see that many of the girls are learning great things in school and bringing those gifts out to share. 

FFP: Has anything about being a GOTR coach been surprising or unexpected?

Carson: I am surprised by how much the girls transport me back to my youth.  Some of the conversations that we've had really hit home.  Conversations around body image and relationships and missing friends who have moved away... The other coaches and I have been moved to tears after practice remembering what it was like to be in their shoes.

FFP: How has the staff at GOTR-Dane County supported your efforts? 

Carson: The staff at GOTR - Dane County are awesome!  They have been very supportive, incredibly so.  They held new coaches training and first aid sessions to start the season off.  They let me sneak another girl onto the team in the early weeks (would have been so hard to turn her away), they make lesson planning a breeze by sending out weekly reminders about what is coming up, they've provided all of the materials for the lessons, and most of all, they've provided individual support to the girls when needed.  We were able to provide a great new pair of running shoes to one of the girls on the team.  GOTR support is amazing.  They are really committed to making this program successful.

FFP: For those considering coaching a GOTR or Girls On Track team in their community, what advice would you share?

Carson: If you are on the edge about becoming a GOTR coach, I would offer this advice.  You might approach GOTR coaching as a way for you to grow personally, not with the idea that you don't have what it takes to coach, or that you have nothing to teach the girls, or that you don't know how to run (because it's not a running program).  My default state throughout my adult life has been to be sort of scheduled, to play by the book, to plan and maybe to over-plan.  Coaching GOTR has enabled me to let loose, to let things happen and unfold, to throw the book away when good things are happening, and to appreciate how each lesson is played out.

While the lessons are literally written out for you, the spontaneity of practice is rewarding.  Not to mention that the girls really do value the program... they know me now... It's great to be hugged in the hallways at school.  I'll forever be Coach Myrtle. 

FFP: How has GOTR influenced the rest of your family?

Carson: I have a jealous little guy at home, who would really like to be a Boy on the Run.  

FFP: What do you want the community to know about GOTR? 

Carson: I found out about GOTR through a friend - who happens to be a former GOTR coach.  We were discussing how to raise a confident daughter (and I really didn't know, as I lost that confidence when I was growing up).  My friend said to me, "She needs to do Girls on the Run."  She was right.  TheGOTR program is designed to give our girls the tools to be positive, to treat themselves well, to understand their emotions, to practice gratitude, to value what's really important, to cooperate, to stand up to peer pressure and bullying, to understand how harmful gossip is, to choose friends that lift you up, and to work together to support their community. 

Please join Girls on the Run Dane County for the 2nd Annual Spring 5K on Saturday, June 8 at McKee Farms Park in Fitchburg, WI. 

For more stories of ordinary people doing amazing things, follow Focal Flame Photography on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+! 

The Cookie Project: Sweet Rewards Along the IronMan Wisconsin Bike Course

by Deb Proctor

From spring slush to the last rustle of frost coated fallen leaves, Jen Anderson and her friends ride the back roads, hills, and valleys of rural Dane County training forIronMan Wisconsin, one of the toughest and most popular IronMan triathlon events in North America.  IronMan athletes are a dedicated lot. They have to be — it is not an easy feat to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and then run a 26.2-mile marathon all in less than 17 hours (Jen finished in 13:26:53 in 2012.)

To build the stamina and endurance they need for this grueling race, it takes training — lots of training. Jen and her friends bike the steep hills and bank the sharp curves of Southwestern Wisconsin, day in and day out, all summer long.  

Yet how does that daily procession of riders affect the people who live on the IronManWI bike course?  Sharing the road with a slow-moving, heart pounding, sweat pouring cyclist climbing a steep hill requires patience and tolerance. Yet most drivers slow down, move over, and wait until they reach the top of the hill to pass safely. 

To prove her gratitude for the drivers' courtesy, Jen wanted to do something to say thank you.  "I wish I could just bake them cookies or something..." she said after one training ride.  And thus, The Cookie Project was born. She would bake cookies for all households on the IronMan Wisconsin bike course.

Adding up the numbers however proved a bit overwhelming — 357 addresses; at even a half dozen per household it added up to over 2,100 cookies! That's a lot of cookies! What had Jen gotten herself into?

That is when the miracle of community came to the rescue. The "Love Army," as she dubbed them, made the enormous task possible. The word went out on Facebook and Twitter, and soon the cookies began to pour in —athletes delivered  a couple dozen here, 11, 12, even 13 dozen there, from as far away as Milwaukee. Businesses that support triathlon and cycling athletes — Endurance House, Peak Performance Massage, Integrated Sport and Spine and others — joined Focal Flame Photography in spreading the word, acting as cookie drop locations, and even baking cookies.

Soon delivery day was at hand: Memorial Day, May 27. After packaging cookies into bags with a sincere thank-you message attached, Jen and a few friends hopped into her trusty Jeep and started driving their biking route, hanging bags of cookies on rural mailboxes and delivering them to doors. (Jen captured some videoof the delivery day.) The smiles and thank you responses from the residents she personally encountered made all the work worthwhile.

"I am beyond thankful for all the support to help accomplish this," Jen exclaimed when the cookies were delivered. "We are a community bonded together by our passion for the sport and we need to watch out for one another.  I would do anything to keep my friends safe out there.  If this cookie project was a reminder to a driver to watch out for cyclists and keeps one of the people I love on the road – mission accomplished."

The goodwill created by Jen and her friends' simple act of kindness was evident in the response of one resident who wrote on The Cookie Project blog,"We’ve lived out here nineteen years, and as competitive cycling has gotten more popular in Dane County, I confess I’ve gotten impatient with all the cyclists all summer... But I will remember your thoughtful cookie gift when I see you this summer and be more broad-minded. Thank you!"

 Amazing what a difference a few cookies can make!

So will there be cookies for residents again next year? Jen responded, "Based upon the overwhelming positive response from the residents and also the support from the other athletes, I would love to develop a way that this effort can continue annually. Now I’m thinking of how I can incorporate the rest of the course for next year." 

Jen added,"My hope is that this project reignited some responsibility and respect from both the drivers and athletes... anyone that helped with this project has been reminded that we athletes have a responsibility to the drivers to be safe and respectful, just as we request the same from the drivers."

Mission accomplished Jen. Well done!

Focal Flame Photography is honored to support heart-warming community initiatives such as The Cookie Project. For more stories about ordinary people doing amazing things, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Google+. 

Athlete Profile: Ultramarathon Runner Darren Fortney

Among the approximately 1,200 runners participating in the 35th annual Lake Monona 20K race on May 4, 2013 was an athlete who is preparing for a race that is itself in its 36th year – a race that is legendary among runners worldwide. Middleton, WI runner Darren Fortney has been invited to participate for the third time in the Badwater Ultramarathon, a 135-mile race from Death Valley to Mount Whitney, CA on July 15-17.

Dubbed as “the world’s toughest foot race,” the Badwater Ultramarathon originated in 1977 when solo runner Al Arnold completed the course after two previously failed attempts. Badwater became an organized race in 1987, although to this day it remains completely unsupported – no aid stations, no water, no food…just the runners and their self-organized, self-supporting crews. Athletes rely on training, logistical preparation, and wits to survive temperatures reaching up to 130 degrees F.

Fortney is no stranger to fortitude, as evidenced by a 2010 athlete profile by Focal Flame Photography describing his role in an annual ultraswimmingevent across Lake Mendota named “Gills for Gilda’s.” Charitable donations raised from the Lake Mendota Crossing helped to fund programs for cancer patients and their family at Gilda’s Club.

This year, Fortney is once again raising funds for Gilda’s Club – with a goal of raising $15,000. Focal Flame Photography writer Robyn Perrin caught up with Darren between training sessions to ask him about why he is taking on the challenge again, and what the mission of Gilda’s Club means to him personally.

Focal Flame Photography: As a 2-time Badwater alum, what are your expectations for Badwater in 2013?

Darren Fortney: My goal is really simple this time.   It is to work in conjunction with my support crew to fully execute our race plan and run the "smartest" race of our three trips to the desert.  I have recently made some modifications regarding my nutrition plan, body management, support team, and overall strategy that I think will ensure some positive results this coming July.

FFP: What made you decide to train for Badwater again?

DF: As one of 90 athletes in the world who are fortunate and healthy enough to be asked to compete, I felt it would be an opportunity missed if I did not once again apply to participate in this amazing event.   After battling through some rather serious health issues in 2012, I have once again discovered my passion for running long and pushing my body and mind to new levels.  Last fall I competed in the Yellowstone 100-miler and had some decent results.  At that point, I know I was back and wanted to give Badwater another run.

FFP: Why did you want to include the Lake Monona 20K as a training event?

DF: I always enjoy the Lake Monona 20K race.  Race Day Events puts on an amazing show, not only on the race course, but post-race as well (beer!).   I have also found that mixing up various distances and paces helps bring variety to my training and avoids burn-out.   I also love the concept of running around an entire lake.  How cool is that?

FFP: Tell me in your own words a little bit about your relationship with Gilda's Club - why you are fundraising for the organization, your interactions with the organization, what their work means to you personally.

DF: As a cancer survivor myself, I have a strong desire to give back to the cancer community, especially here in my hometown.  I have been involved with Gilda's Club since 2008.  I have served on the Board of Directors at Gilda's Club now for about two years and have found not only the organization, but [also] the people to be truly amazing while providing this critical service to those battling this disease.  Over the years I have made supporting and fundraising for Gilda's Club part of my life.  Leveraging my Badwater experience once again will hopefully result in another successful fundraising campaign.   We are once again targeting $15,000!  

FFP: From cancer to back surgeries, you've overcome so many physical challenges during your career as a runner. What draws you back to the sport again and again?

DF: Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game, no matter what level runner you are.  I am fortunate that my most recent injuries were not directly related to running so my transition from being injured back to running has been easier.  I think it also helps that I enjoy running and competing so motivation is not hard.   That alone draws me back to the sport.  When I am injured, it only serves to remind me how lucky I am to be able to do what I am doing......and makes me work that much harder to take care of my body as best I can.

FFP: What do you want people to know about Gilda's Club?

DF: Cancer can and will affect you at some level in your life.  Everyone will eventually need to face this disease on some level in their life, be it a friend, co-worker, family member, or neighbor.   Gilda's Club is there for those in need in our community, right here in the Madison area.  It is local and that is why I am with them.  It offers greatly needed social and emotional support for the entire family.  Many people close to me have utilized Gilda's Club and for that we are all thankful.  All of its services are provided at NO CHARGE.   That alone tells you what kind of a place it is.  Fundraising is a critical part of Gilda's Club success and I am grateful to have so many wonderful people in my life to help contribute fundraisers such as the Badwater campaign.

To contribute to Darren Fortney’s fund for Gilda’s Club, visit http://gildas.kintera.org/badwater. Donations of $25 or more made before July 13 will qualify for a $10 coupon off Mizuno shoes and an entry for a grand prize. Focal Flame Photography is proud to support Darren Fortney’s efforts at the 2013 Badwater Ultramarathon. 

IRONMAN WI: Michael Thompson Gets it Done

by Kim Rankin

“Strong and steady” were the words Madison, WI photographer Clint Thayer used to describe theIronMan WI performance of custom sports photography client Michael Thompson. “He never stopped, but just kept going.”

When Thompson crossed the finish line Sunday night, a support team of family and friends were there to meet him. Not letting himself or his team down was Thompson’s motivating goal from the beginning.

“I know there are going to be spots that will be crappy,” shared Thompson before the race.“I’m not obsessed with how long it takes. It’s a matter of getting it done. When I get to that point when I don’t want to go, when my body says I can quit… I don’t want to be the person who says, 'I couldn’t find a way to overcome.'”

The desire to overcome life's challenges is something Thompson shares with his brother, Chris, who has battled cancer. “My brother told me his personal goal is to be able to stand up out of his wheelchair unaided as I cross the finish line. He’s going to be there to give me a hug. So when I’m out there on the course, and I don’t want to move forward, I’m going think of him, of how he struggles to get up out of his wheelchair. I’ll go forward. I'll get to the end.”

Going forward is something Thompson did amazingly well all day Sunday. His performance on the bike was especially outstanding. “He flew!,” said Thayer as he narrated Thompson's IronMan through the lens. Thompson entered the 112 mile bike leg of the race  ranked 280th in his age division. He left his bike ranked 191st.  While reporting from the course, Thayer said “He is passing people like crazy. He came over the climb at Midtown looking strong and digging deep.” Thompson wrapped up the day with an equally strong marathon, averaging eleven minute miles.

Thompson’s road to IronMan WI 2012 started with a run five years ago. He did the CrazyLegs Classic, an 8-km race, with a group of friends - motivated primarily by the free beer at the end. “I started big, fat, and lazy,” he said, “but realized after running a bit with a buddy that I was losing weight. Hanging out and running with friends encouraged more interest [in sports].”

Thompson entered his first marathon in 2007. He completed two triathlons in 2009, the Lake Mill Sprint and the Olympic distance race of the Wisconsin Triterium in Verona. In 2011, Thompson completed the IronMan 70.3 Racine in just over six hours. His girlfriend, Jodi Hemp, was also instrumental. Hemp and Thompson have been together for over ten years. "She encouraged me to sign up for IronMan WI," said Thompson. "Without her support every day, I would not have made it." 

Thompson’s buddies took that encouragement and created a goal. Travis Welch (Ironman WI 2008), Shawn Killebrew (Ironman WI 2009) and Brett Fenner (Ironman WI 2010) were vital to Thompson’s motivation and training for Sunday’s event. “We talk daily. We run or bike every time we're together,”said Thompson. Jessica Laufenberg of SBR Coaching was also instrumental in Thompson’s preparation, planning every workout from December 2011 until IronMan Wisconsin on Sunday, September 9, 2012.

“Anyone who says they do this by themselves is lying," said Thompson. "Everything your support team says and does every day makes it easier or harder to reach the goal.”

Congratulations to IRONMAN Michael Thompson, his brother Chris, and Team Thompson for turning goals into reality!

For more stories about dedicated athletes fueled by passion and determination, join Focal Flame Photography onFacebook, Twitter, and Google +!

Training for a sporting event? Ask us about custom sports photography - we'd be honored to help document your journey.   ​