Honoring the Greatest: Madison Marathon Supports Badger Honor Flight

Contemplation and reflection among memorials in Washington, D.C. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Service. Commitment. Dedication. Sacrifice. 

These are words that have deep meaning to the running community. They are also integral to the U.S. military service personnel, veteran, and civilian support community. 

On November 9, 2014 – in honor of Veteran’s Day - both communities will join together in two ways. First, funds raised at the Madison Marathon will benefit its charity partner, Badger Honor Flight. Second, the official race starter will be Sgt. Ross Gundlach (retired, US Marine Corps) and retired military service K9 Casey, who worked together as a team while serving in Afghanistan. 

Explaining that the spring Madison Marathon events were chosen to coincide with Memorial Day and fall events with Veteran’s Day, Madison Festivals Inc. president Rita Kelliher said, “We chose a charity that would bring attention to the military veterans.” 

Kelliher had personal experience with Badger Honor Flight, which serves 11 counties in Wisconsin as part of the nationwide Honor Flight network. Badger Honor Flight is dedicated to ensuring that WWII, Korean War, and terminally ill veterans from any war have the opportunity to see the memorials in Washington, D.C., that have been erected in their honor. Four flights a year bring veterans and one companion each to Washington, D.C., where they visit war memorials and monuments on the Mallway and in Arlington National Cemetery. All expenses are covered for the veterans in gratitude for their service, and their companions pay a $500 fee out of pocket. 

How many veterans has Badger Honor Flight served? According to president Brian Ziegler, “A total of 1,514 so far. Our goal is to take every WWII and Korean veteran [in the region who applies],” said Ziegler. Each flight takes approximately 85 to 80 veterans, and the waiting list is currently over 500 veterans. “We’re flying as fast as we can,” said Ziegler. 

Considering the advanced age of World War II veterans, speed is of the essence. But the planning stage for each flight is orderly, not rushed. “Our planning really starts once we receive a veteran’s application,” said Ziegler. Each application is reviewed and prioritized, with World War II and terminally ill veterans receiving top placement due to urgency. A medical advisory team of “a couple dozen” healthcare providers also reviews applications to ensure that the rigors of travel would not weigh too heavily on the veterans. Once a flight spot becomes available, veterans and companions (referred to as guardians) are re-contacted to confirm their interest, availability, and whether they feel capable of traveling. 

“There are tons of memories” from the flights, said Ziegler, recounting a trip in which a father and son were met at the World War II Memorial by the late Senator Daniel Inouye. Sen. Inouye was the second longest-serving senator in U.S. history, representing Hawaii in the Senate from 1962 until his death in 2012. “The Badger Honor Flight veteran and Senator Inouye had both been in the same hospital together” after being injured during World War II, said Ziegler. 

As memorable as the nation’s capital might be for veterans, the return trip is often the highlight. “It all culminates in the welcome home at the airport,” said Ziegler. “I had a veteran at this last flight tell me that all he was expecting was his wife to pick him up at the airport.” Instead, he was met at the airport by a crowd of 5,000 people cheering - plus a brass band. 

For Ziegler, those moments are where it all the effort comes together. “A lot of these veterans never got the welcome home that others did,” he said. “They never got the ticker tape parade.”

Sgt. Gundlach and Casey on duty. Photo courtesy of Ross Gundlach.

For Madison Marathon official race starter Sgt. Ross Gundlach, a homecoming after serving on active duty in Afghanistan felt hollow and incomplete without the companionship of his military service canine, Casey. 

The pair had worked together as an IED detection team, relying on the incomprehensible sensitivity of Casey’s nose to warn of danger from explosives. “She was one of the best,” said Gundlach. “I wouldn’t be talking to you…or possibly be alive,” had it not been for Casey’s acumen in identifying IEDs. The bond between handler and K9 was so strong that Gundlach promised his dog that he would find her again after they both returned stateside. 

Gundlach was a man of his word. “We were separated 333 days from the time that I got back from Afghanistan,” he said. At that point, the tables were turned: Gundlach had to detect the whereabouts of his partner, albeit relying on networking rather than nosework. He located her in Iowa where she had been acquired by the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office as an explosives detection service K9. 

Gundlach began a letter-writing campaign, explaining his commitment to his four-legged partner. Word spread to the Iowa Elk’s Association, a service group supporting veterans, who agreed to donate the $8,500 replacement cost for another service dog. Officials with the Fire Marshal’s Office then summoned Gundlach to the state Capitol in Des Moines for a surprise ceremony to reunite him with his beloved dog. When she saw Gundlach, Casey burst into a fury of joyful whimpering, tail-wagging, and face-licking. 

Today, Gundlach is a full-time student in Madison while he pursues a business degree. When not attending class, he cares for Casey. “I wake up, run together, we go to the park… Anything that’s not beneficial to her happiness I don’t do,” said Gundlach. 

As he cares for a K9 veteran, Gundlach is well aware of the work that Badger Honor Flight does to care for human veterans. “What they do is invaluable,” said Gundlach. “You’re talking about the greatest generation, and this particular war and the monument they’re going to see – people 70 and younger just can’t even imagine” the loss and sacrifices that occurred, particularly during World War II. “We owe it to them,” he said.

Gundlach and Casey will both be present at the start of the Madison Marathon to officially wish racers safe passage. 

He feels a kinship with runners, pointing out, “I can tell you running and the Marine Corps go hand in hand. If you weren’t a runner before you joined the Marines, well, you are now.” Standard training for dog handlers and their K9s is to run together five miles a day, five days a week. 

“The dogs will outrun the guys every time,” said Gundlach. 

The organizers of Madison Marathon encourage all participants to donate to Badger Honor Flight. A $5 donation can be made via cell phone by texting “FESTIVAL” to 20222.  Badger Honor Flight also needs energetic volunteers to assist with administration, medical, fundraising, and publicity to get the word out to get every veteran that wants to apply to go on a flight. For more information on volunteering with Badger Honor Flight, click here. 

- by Robyn M. Perrin

Madison Marathon Profile: Brent Kimbel and Bill Enright

If you’ve attended the Madison Marathon in the last few years, you may have seen Brent Kimbel (42) and Bill Enright (47) of Verona. They’re impossible to miss, because these gentlemen complete the entire race dressed head-to-toe as beer bottles. Their goal? To challenge others to have fun while they run. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked Brent and Bill—also known by their alter egos, “Mich” and “Ultra”—about why they run in such spectacularly unique style.

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Mich and Ultra, otherwise known as Bill Enright (left) and Brent Kimbel (right), wave to fans during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Brent Kimbel gives a victory salute during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): Do you participate in other similar events? 
Brent: I've run 12 half or full marathons, at least 6 in costume, including the 2008 Ironman in Arizona, a couple of Half-IronMans (Racine and High Cliff), a few shorter triathlons (Capitol View), as well as the Haunted Hustle, the Green Bay Marathon, and the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathons.
Bill: Eleven for me including IronMan Wisconsin 2006 and 2009, Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, and a bunch of Half-Marathon and Adventure Races for years.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?  
Brent: Running in races such as this is a great way to put yourself in a very positive environment.  Everyone, racers and spectators alike, are out to have fun and are very encouraging to one another.  
Bill: It is the most healthy way to support our community events.

Bill Enright finishes strong at the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?  
Brent: When you run in a hometown race you see and run with a lot of your friends so it is more like a party. I also like that the half marathon is a springtime race [Editor’s note: the Half Marathon distance is now offered in both spring and fall]; it motivates you to get out and run after being locked up inside for such a long winter, especially this year.
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Bill: Brent and I make it a little more fun than your average racer! We started off running as Ketchup and Mustard (I was Mustard), finishing the race at the World Famous Brat Fest. Now that the event is sponsored by Budweiser, we dress up as beer bottles — Mich and Ultra.  
Brent: Many people we talk to come to the starting line with a goal of "just beating the beer bottles."  Luckily we're not super fast runners, so a lot of people walk away happy.  We have a lot of fun encouraging the other runners along the way too, especially first timers.  It's hard to think about the pain when you are joking around with guys who are cracking jokes.
Bill: We like to think that our presence has resulted in the fastest total combined times for any Half in the country. Just our comical presence motivates a lot of other runners — there is no way they will let themselves be beat by two dudes dressed up like anything. 

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon? 
Bill: Just DO IT!
Brent: It's a well-run, organized, enjoyable race. The fan support is terrific — the community really comes out to cheer everyone on.  It doesn't matter what time you finish in, just that you are giving it your all.
 
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know?  
Brent: When I stopped focusing on what my stopwatch read and just enjoyed the miles and the journey, running really became much more fun.  These days I don't even wear a watch.
Bill: If you are going to voluntarily do this to yourself you might as well make it fun.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Ashley Matthys

During her seventh grade year in her hometown of Zumbrota, MN, Ashley Matthys (now age 24) missed the deadline to sign up for the soccer team. She decided to run instead, sparking a fire of passion for the sport. Now, Ashley is looking forward to her first Madison Marathon this November. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about the Madison Marathon and why she chose this event as her first full marathon race. 

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Ashley Matthys during the 2014 Madison Half Marathon (spring). Photo © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Ashley: This will be my first! I ran the half marathon in 2013 [and spring 2014]. Now I'm ready to take on 26.2.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Ashley:  I have run the Twin Cities Marathon and the Madison Half Marathon in 2013 [and 2014], as well as the Get Lucky half marathon in Minneapolis this spring.  I've run a number of shorter-distance races including the UW Valentine's Day 5K, the Crazylegs 8K, the Color Run, and the Ugly Sweater 5K.

ASHLEY'S PERSONAL STORY 
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Ashley: Once I started running, I never looked back, running cross country in high school and then for Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.  

Running has become my getaway, my stress relief. It's how I've met some of my best friends (and my boyfriend!) and the way I've made a lot of my favorite memories. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: With a gorgeous view of the lakes and the Capitol, why wouldn't I? Madison has been my home for the past year and a half. It's where I trained for my first marathon. I know the loops around both lakes very well. I've heard great reviews from friends who have run it in the past and I'm ready to try out the course for myself. I'm excited to tackle the full marathon this fall!
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Ashley: I train and run with Michelle, one of my best friends and a teammate from college, who's now at UW. Training would be so much harder without someone running alongside to help me push through those really hot or really cold days. We've gone on 20+ mile runs, early in the morning and really late at night, and covered miles all over the UW Arboretum, downtown, through campus, and on the East and West side. Running is how I've gotten familiar with the streets of Madison.
 
I appreciate the people who don crazy costumes for these events and provide much needed comic relief, but I stick to my comfort zone, wearing the same thing for every race - my lucky green shorts (green means go!) and my Luther College Norse alumni jersey.
 
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: Running a marathon is a blast. 'Fun' might not be the first word that comes to most people's minds when they think of pounding the pavement for hours (more likely it's "painful" or "exhausting") but it really is a great time. After logging countless hours of solitary miles, it's like the whole city shuts down to throw you a big party and celebrate your accomplishment. Spectators are such a crucial part of a race; there's a big running community here and many people supporting the participants. 

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that we should know?
Ashley: I'm planning to run the Boston Marathon in 2015!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Anthony Garcia

Runner Anthony Garcia (26), Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, did not always think of himself as an athlete. "I was barely able to make three plays in touch football in college," he said – but Garcia decided to focus on his health and started running. After starting with fun runs, color runs, and mud runs, he got "pumped" for the first portion of the Conquer the Capitol challenge: completing both the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon back-to-back. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about the Madison Marathon and why he chose it as his first long-distance race. 

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Anthony's Personal Story

On May 24, Anthony Garcia ran the Madison Marathon Twilight 10K, racing through the downtown streets at nightfall. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Paul McMahon

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Anthony: I love the competition of the race — not just against other runners but against your own mind. Being able to break through the barrier of your mind telling you to slow down or stop is a great feeling.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? What are a few of your favorites?
Anthony:  I've done the Warrior Dash in Illinois, Beach Dash in Chicago, and Color Run in Milwaukee as fun runs. The Warrior Dash was my favorite because of the combination of challenging obstacles and mud. I also did the Lucky Leprechaun 7k and Frostbite 5k, here in Wisconsin, and I travel to Iowa annually to do the Bix 7 race with family.

A mere twelve hours later, Garcia raced the Madison Half Marathon, finishing strong under a warm early summer sky. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Anthony: What makes it special? My co-workers who have run the Madison Half Marathon before had mentioned that it is a challenge because of the hills. I was interested in a good challenge for my first half marathon. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Anthony:  I've been racing with my co-workers — it adds another level of competition and some bragging rights around the office.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Anthony: The "Conquer the Capitol" — a back-to-back 10K twilight run and half marathon in the spring, and a full marathon in the fall —offers a great opportunity to push yourself. The two back-to-back races took all I had; perhaps next year I will add the fall marathon and truly conquer the capitol.

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share? 
Anthony: I never would have thought I could become a runner. In college I was over 300 pounds. After graduation I began focusing on my health and getting into better shape. Now over 100 pounds lighter I'm pumped to challenge myself to complete. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Jan Hagen

Madison athlete Janet (Jan) Hagen, age 65, is an avid runner. Between 2000 and 2003 she completed a marathon in each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Hagen is headed for a triple-digit accomplishment: she will celebrate the completion of her 100th marathon when she crosses the Madison Marathon finish line on November 9th, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked Jan about her love of the sport.

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Jan Hagen competing in the 2013 Lake Monona 20K race. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): You have completed four Madison Marathons. What other running events are your favorites?
Jan:  I have qualified for the Boston marathon and completed the race in 2012. Local favorites include:  Madison Mini Marathon, High Cliff Half-Ironman Triathlon, Green Lake (Ripon) Half Marathon, Silver Lake Triathlon, Lake Winneconne Triathlon, Chicago Half-Marathon, Wo Zha Wa Days Half Marathon, Syttende Mai 20 mile run, and Lake Monona 20K.

Jan Hagen's Personal Story

FFP: What does running in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Jan:  I enjoy setting fitness and wellness goals and the sense of accomplishment in achieving those goals.  

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Jan:  I have lived in Madison for over 30 years and have walked or run much of the marathon course at various times.  Running the Madison Marathon is a way to reflect on my past and the city's history and share in the excitement and energy of being a part of this great community. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Jan: I like to get in the spirit of a run on holidays and dress accordingly.  It is fun to see the creativity of other runners and the costumes they devise.  When I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2000 (it was held just before Halloween that year), a group of runners ran as a pumpkin: 8 runners together under a large orange canopy, each of them wearing a green “stem” hat. Now, that's teamwork in many senses of the word!!

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Jan: The Madison Marathon is special because it is a way to “showcase” the city to runners from other regions, states and countries.  It is a fun race, with a lot of variety and good crowd support.  

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Jan:  After completing my 100th marathon, I plan to continue running but in shorter distance races. Having been diagnosed with and successfully treated for thyroid cancer two years ago, and osteopenia and arthritis for the past several years, I am motivated to pursue a healthy lifestyle that includes running.  Once I can't run anymore, I plan to take up other fitness endeavors appropriate for my health status and hopefully inspire others to be more aware of how fitness contributes to a fulfilling lifestyle.

Jan's response to our questions included this inspirational quote:
"Winners are too busy to be sad, too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, too determined to be defeated."  - Anonymous

We salute Jan and all participants in the Fall Madison Marathon – whether the event is your first or 101st, we celebrate your accomplishment!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

5 Things You Should Know: Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run

Calling all kids - and their parents! The Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run is fast-approaching and will be held on Saturday, September 27 starting at 8 am in Festival Park, Verona, WI. With three different distances for various ages and ultra-fun obstacles plus (of course!) an awesome mud pit, there's something for everyone. And your race fees directly support fitness and healthy lifestyle programs in schools.  

Thinking about doing the Tri 4 Schools Fall Mud Run? We caught up with Tri 4 Schools founder Katie Hensel, who shared these five tips:

Hundreds of kids - and their families - participate in the Tri 4 Schools Mud Run. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Jacob Ennis

1. Dress for success. A dirty mud runner is a happy mud runner! Remember, dirt is a must-have accessory. Bring old shoes and clothes that can be adorned with soil and sweat, and also bring along a set of spare clothes and shoes for after the race. Pro tip: Mud pits can swallow shoes whole depending on your technique. Some find it helpful to secure footwear with duct tape.

Is there anything better than splashing in the mud?! © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard

2. Towels and plastic bags are super-useful. A trash bag is not only handy for containing messy clothes; in a pinch, it doubles as a good seat on damp ground. You'll want a towel to dry off with, and a second towel can make a decent seat as well, either on its own layered on top of a plastic bag. Yes, changing tents are available courtesy of Tri 4 Schools. (They've thought of everything!)

Bring a friend and tackle the course together! © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard

3. The family that runs together has fun together. NEW for this race: Parents or other adult friends and family members can register to run with your kids for any of the three distances! Choose from approximately 1/3 mi (recommended for age 6 and under), 1.5 mi (ages 7 to 11), or a 5K (3.1 mi, ages 12 and up). There's nothing quite like tackling a giant inflatable obstacle as a family, seeing whether Dad can beat the kids at a potato sack hop, or grabbing hands and diving into the mud pit together. Last one home is a rotten egg! 

4. Do good while having fun. The unique nonprofit business model of Tri 4 Schools means that all of your kids' race entry fees will go back to  your child's school to fund health and fitness resources, from equipment for physical education classes to healthy nutrition education programs. You can make a difference! 

5. Scholarships are available. Any child that qualifies for free/reduced lunch at their school can participate in the Tri 4 Schools Mud Run for FREE. E-mail info@tri4schools.org for more information. 

So what are you waiting for? Join in the awesome power of mud and more. And don't forget, your free FocalShare™ digital race photos will be available for download after the mud run, sponsored by Tri 4 Schools, Elements Massage (check out their new location in Fitchburg!), and Functional Integrated Training. Please send your thanks to these organizations for providing FocalShare photos! Our photographers can't wait to see your smiles on the course. 

Care2Tri: Inclusion and Acceptance of Differently Abled Athletes

If you participated in the 2014 Pleasant Prairie Triathlon, you may have noticed some special teams of athletes from the nonprofit organization Care2Tri taking on the challenge of the race. Founded in 2009, Care2Tri is dedicated to making it possible for differently-abled people to experience the challenge, the thrill, and the joy of participating in triathlons and similar events by helping them compete. The mission of the organization is to “create a sense of equality and help steer the views of mainstream society to one of acceptance and inclusion,” one race at a time. 
We caught up with Ryan Flynn, one of the founders and leaders of the Care2Tri Chicago chapter, after the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon and asked him about his organization.

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Focal Flame Photography: What was your motivation in starting a Care2Tri chapter?
Flynn: I have been racing in triathlons for 5 years and absolutely love the sport and competition, yet I’ve always wanted to do something more to share the experience with other people. I saw coverage of the Florida Rev 3 triathlon where Care2Tri was highlighted.   I was very moved and spoke with founder Greg Simony about starting a chapter, which along with Carrie Wisniewski we did in September 2013.

A Care2Tri team prepares to head out for the swim leg of the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon. 
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

FFP: Adaptive vans, equipment, and traveling to races is expensive. How is Care2 Tri supported?
Flynn: We are fortunate to have some corporate sponsors in the form of product, but we rely solely on local businesses, friends, family, and fellow triathletes for funding.  We held fundraisers throughout the winter, used the funds to purchase equipment and insurance, and had our first race in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin in the spring of 2014.  That was really a big moment for the Chicago Chapter!  And you can see it in the photos Focal Flame took!

The swim is a team effort, with Care2Tri members taking turns pulling an inflatable vessel carrying another member. 
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Austin Cope

FFP: How many races have you run and how many people with disabilities have you served so far?
Flynn: I have completed 2 races with Care2Tri, pulling 3 athletes with disabilities; we have at least 3 more on the schedule for 2014. We plan to participate in the same 5 races next year and add more. Currently, we are trying to organize racing 50 triathlons in all 50 states in 50 consecutive days, pulling 3 disabled participants in each state.

FFP: How has starting this chapter of Care2 Tri affected you personally and/or professionally? 
Flynn: It certainly has been a challenge, but the joy and pride our participants experience during the races makes all the hard work worth it! As long as I am able, I will continue to make these opportunities available.

A bike trailer converts to a running cart, helping the Care2Tri team achieve their goal. The Chicago chapter raised funds for the Wike cart for use in training and competition. 
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit; Jacob Ennis

FFP: What impact has your organization had on the community? 
Flynn: In the short time that we have been participating in races, we have had a lot of triathletes and spectators come to us and want to get involved and race with us.  Just through modeling the right approach, others want to get on board. 

FFP: Does your organization partner with support groups to either connect with people with disabilities, raise funds, or provide support? 
Flynn: We partner with the Anixter Center, United Cerebral Palsy, Disabled Veterans, Wounded Warriors, and the YMCA, encouraging them to promote our organization and allow us to speak at health and fitness engagements.  We have worked with people with cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, autism, Rett syndrome, brain injuries, Down syndrome, and people who are blind, quadriplegic, or amputees. If someone has the desire, we will find a way for them to participate in any race.

FFP: If someone wishes to be a part of Chicago Care2Tri chapter, whom should they contact? 
Flynn: We welcome race guides and volunteers for race day, as well as help with fundraising, marketing, and race organization. Contact:  RFlynnCare2Tri@gmail.com   

Focal Flame Photography is honored to capture moments such as the amazing teamwork of Care2Tri members during our service as the official event photographers for the Pleasant Prairie Triathlon. Thanks and congratulations to the entire triathlete community for your efforts in making this sport accessible to differently abled athletes. 

A jubilant celebration at the finish line for a Care2Tri competitor. 
© 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

- by Deborah Proctor

Lake Mills Triathlete Profile: Klaas van Zanten

Parkinson's Disease no match for determination

Eleven  years ago, Klaas van Zanten (45) of Johnson Creek, WI was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. The illness is characterized by progressive damage to the nervous system and can severely affect movement. But van Zanten was determined to keep dreaming and doing. Although he considered himself "a novice when it comes to any sporting event," van Zanten was intrigued by triathlon. "The three disciplines attracted me," he said, and he began running recreationally. "Just a little bit of exercise," he said - moments dedicated to fitness that he pursued during busy days as a father of three young children ages 12, 10, and 7.

Klaas van Zanten (right) emerges from the water at the Lake Mills Triathlon supported by his friend Jay Handy (left). (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography. Photo credit: Josh Zytkiewicz

Given that Klaas' condition causes challenges including momentary lack of control of his body, he wasn't sure whether he could persevere during competition. "My challenge is the swim," he said soberly.

But he was encouraged by his friend Jay Handy (51) of Madison, WI, who has competed in IronMan races while managing his own condition of diabetes. After meeting in the Madison Dutch Club (Handy's wife is Dutch, as is Klaas), he two men became buddies and began training together. "We have worked on a system where I hold his head up while he lays on his back and I side stroke along," said Handy. "It has been a rather powerful and unfolding  process between the two of us. He can propel himself for about 30 yards, then poops out, I assist for 10 yards, then he goes again."

Klaas (left) and Jay (right) cross the finish line of the Lake Mills Triathlon, hand in triumphant hand. (c) 2014 Focal Flame Photography. Photo credit: Clint Thayer

On Jun 1, 2014, Klaas and Jay emerged from the open water swim portion of the Lake Mills Triathlon with jubilant grins. Together, they had done it. Klaas continued on to the bike and run portion of the race. He finished the Lake Mills Triathlon with a total time of 1 hour, 54 minutes, and 14 seconds.

When asked what message he would want to share with others living with Parkinson's Disease, Klaas minced no words. "You need to get off your tush and start doing something, get active. Whatever it is. Move around. It’s a good thing," he said. "Choose an activity you like, one that challenges you."

And surround yourself with positive people - just like his friend Jay. 

Focal Flame Photography is honored to share the story of athletes such as Klaas who have embraced a love of sports despite personal challenges. We are proud to partner with event production firms such as Race Day Events LLC - which produces the Lake Mills Triathlon and Wisconsin Tri Series - that hold safety paramount. If you are a physically challenged athlete considering participation in any race, always contact race officials prior to registration so they will know how best to support your needs. 

- by Robyn M. Perrin

10 Ways to Use Your FocalShare Digital Photo

As the saying goes, the best things in life are free. That's why free FocalShare digital photos are, well, awesome. If you've participated in a race or other sporting event that includes FocalShare service, you can download your high-resolution image at a cost of $0.00.

What can you do with your photo? If you're in need of creative ideas, here are 10 to get you started. 

1. Inspire a friend. Perhaps this is your first race. Perhaps you've been competing in your sport for years. Either way, there is a friend out there who needs you to say, "Hey, join me, this is fun." Maybe they can't imagine themselves at the starting line. Maybe they need some encouragement. YOU can be the person who shows them that it's possible, because you've been in their shoes - and now here you are, crossing the finish line. There's nothing more powerful than an image to start a conversation. 

2. Blog it. Do you chronicle your training and competition adventures? You're in good company. There are countless athlete blogs written by novices, women, men, semi-pros and pros - every sport, age division, and lifestyle you can imagine. Each blog serves a critical purpose: by telling your story, you help people understand your journey. You never know what spark this might inspire. Maybe there's a would-be athlete out there just like you that needs some concrete examples of what it takes to spend a day in your running shoes. Your race report can help them understand what it takes to get there. Without an image, all they have is your words to take on faith; with your photo, they can actually visualize not only the journey, but the beautiful outcome. 

3. Inspire yourself. Focal Flame Photography is headquartered in Madison, WI. We understand the realities of a true winter. There will come a day - likely in mid-February - where you need a reminder that at one point there was no such thing as a "polar vortex," that green grass existed, and that sweat can in fact flow freely. Download your high-resolution FocalShare image, print that baby out, and hang it near your trainer, treadmill, or gym locker. We promise: someday, it will get you through that remaining 10% of your workout. You're welcome. 

4. Spark a meet-up. Has it been years since you got together with high school or college buddies? What about your posse - the folks that stood up for you at your wedding, or fraternity/sorority brethren, or the friends you used to spend endless hours with hanging around the neighborhood? It's time to re-connect. Share your photo and invite them to join you at your next event. It might involve some cajoling, some bribing, maybe even some practical tips on how to train for a 5K. But follow through with the ask, and show them how much fun a healthy lifestyle can be. You know that it's possible. They just need an invitation.

5. Brag. Honestly, it's fun. And it's important. When you do something hard, you get to reap the rewards....period. Declare to the naysayers of the world (and even your support crew): CHECK IT OUT  - I GOT THIS. Remember: Pics or it didn't happen. 

6. Office decor. Some people decorate their cubicles with pictures of cats. We like cats. There's nothing wrong with cats. But you also have the option of framing photos of you being athletically awesome. This may in fact inspire you at a critical moment when preparing your next TPS report. 

7. Send to donors as a thank-you gift. If you have participated in a sports event as a fundraiser for a cause, you might be trying to think of a unique, fun way to thank the people who donated on your behalf. What could be more unique than an image of YOU in competition? Recognize the folks who put their good name and money behind your ability to persevere: show them what passion in action looks like. 

8. Holiday card. Toward the end of the year you may find yourself searching frantically for images that summarize a memorable accomplishment while wishing you could just get back to the festivities. Problem solved! What could be more poignant than committing to, preparing for, and participating in an event?

9. Hang it next to your kid's school photo. If you have kids (or if you're important in the life of a child as an aunt, uncle, grandparent, guardian, older sibling, etc.), you know that school portraits are a yearly rite of passage. It's important to put those school pictures up on your refrigerator. But it's also important to show the next generation what strength and dedication looks like. Don't hide it: children need to see that side of you. Even if they don't say anything about it, they'll internalize the message. 

10. Give back. Is there a coach, training partner, friend, or family member who made certain that you were well-supported as you trained? Whether their sweat equity was paid in voices made hoarse from yelling, patience as they watched the clock waiting for you to return from your training session, or camaraderie on the toughest workouts, you're simply not done with your event until you thank them. Show them what they made possible by sharing your race photo. 

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While the list above details a few of the things you can do with your free FocalShare photo...there are also a few things you cannot do. Here are three examples. 

1. Don't represent the photo as your own creative work. While your place at the front of the lens is first and foremost brilliant, every photograph is a relationship between two people: the photo subject, and the photographer. We at Focal Flame Photography are proud to hire the best in the business. Our photographers are highly skilled, experienced, and incredibly nice people who work exceptionally hard in every imaginable weather condition to make sure they capture you at the right moment and with true artistry. When you share your image, please take care to credit the hardworking artists who documented that critical moment. And please, don't submit the image to a photography contest as if it was your own creation. (Don't laugh. There is a reason we have to mention this.) Focal Flame Photography encourages sharing of FocalShare images by photo subjects, but retains copyright. 

2. Use a FocalShare image for disparaging purposes. Focal Flame Photography is on a mission to create good in the world. Images we create may not be used to disparage, harass, embarrass, or make fun of anyone or anything. We feel pretty strongly about this. Contact us if you have any questions. 

3.  Re-sell the image or use it for commercial purposes. FocalShare images are free to share for your own personal use, but attempting to re-sell or gain profit from it in any way is simply not ok. If you or another party is interested in a commercial use license, contact us - are more than happy to help. (But rest assured - we do not issue commercial use licenses without permission of you as the photo subject.)

How have you used your FocalShare digital? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or via email.

Madison Marathon Profile: Erika Stuart

A health teacher in high school once told Erika Stuart (46) that while organized sports were enjoyable, the schedule coordination required for team sports could be difficult to manage as an adult, and encouraged her to get involved in an athletic endeavor that she could enjoy throughout her life.  Erika started running, something she has continued to do - even while balancing the challenges of birthing four children in less than six years. Erika will be running the Madison Half Marathon on May 25 and, in hindsight, wonders why she neglected to sign up for the Twilight 10K run on May 24. "Next year," she says. 

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

Erika: I have run two Madison Half Marathons.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?

Erika: I have been running races and participating in running athletic events in several states for many years. I have competed in a Tin Man, triathlons, biathlons, 5K, 10K, 2-mile, and  5-mile events.

Some of my favorites include the Friehoffer's Championship 5K, Albany, New York; Vermont Marathon, Burlington, Vermont; Wellfleet 5-miler Road Race, Wellfleet, MA; and the Shamrock Shuffle and  Madison Half Marathon in Madison, Wisconsin.

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

Erika: I took time off from running races during the years I had four children, now ages 10, 9, 7, and 4.   As with most moms, the children took over as the top priority in my life.

My youngest was born in December 2009; as the baby got older, I felt it was time to get back to what I love doing.  I set my sights on the Madison Half Marathon and felt great standing at that starting line again!!!

Erika's Personal Story

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

Erika: Participating in an event like the Madison Half Marathon reminds me of my own ability to stay active and healthy.  It also sets a good example for my children, two of whom have run several races with me.

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

Erika: The Madison Marathon/Half Marathon is a top notch event.  It is well run, a great course, well supported, and a fun and festive atmosphere.   I see it as the gateway to a great summer!! Plus, my kids love to be on the square in Madison, watching me and the other runners cross the finish line.

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

Erika: I have run for leukemia and other health-related issues; maybe this year, I will step it up and have a theme. I have also encouraged others to run, walking beside first timers as they jog. This year I have a friend running the Madison Half Marathon with me who has not run a race of that distance before.

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

Erika: It is a fun, somewhat challenging event. Having run many races in several states, in my opinion, the Madison Half Marathon is one of the best I have participated in.

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.