Madison Marathon Profile: Emily Kurian

Running is a family affair for Emily Kurian (age 30) of Madison, Wisconsin. Her journey as a runner started at a young age when her older brothers joined the junior high cross country team. She followed  in their footsteps. As wife of IronMan and accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian (winner of the 2006 Madison Marathon), Emily continues to race with the ultimate goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a lifelong runner. She holds the title for 1st place woman in the 2013 Madison Marathon. Emily and husband Joe competed in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 2, 2014.

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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Emily Kurian and husband Joe Kurian celebrate at the Rock 'N Roll Marathon in St. Louis. Photo credit; David Mari

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Emily Kurian: I have run the Madison Half Marathon and Marathon, and will be taking on the Marathon again on November 9. (Editor's Note: Emily was the female winner of the 2013 Fall Madison Marathon, and 5th place overall.)

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Emily:  Growing up in Springfield, IL, one of my favorite races is the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon.  Having recently moved to Madison, I am participating in more local races such as the New Year's Day dash, Madison Half Marathon in the spring, Madison Mini Marathon in the fall, as well as the Syttende Mai 20K.  I have also gotten into some really great trail runs like Bear Trax 20K in Kettle Moraine Park. 

Emily Kurian (left-center, jumping) at the Green Bay Marathon. Credit: David Mari

Emily's Personal Story
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Emily: When I was about 9 or 10, my older brothers joined the junior high cross country team.  I followed in their footsteps running cross country and track in high school and then continued to run cross country at St Louis University.   After college, I continued  to maintain my running to stay active.  While I have remained somewhat competitive and continue to race, my ultimate goal is to be a "lifelong runner" and  to maintain a healthy way of life.    

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  
Emily: To have such an incredible event here in my backyard (somewhat literally), I couldn't NOT run it!!   Sharing the experience of running my daily routes through Madison with so many others is a thrill!   

FFP: Do you do anything special to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Emily: I am honored to have my husband, Joe Kurian, and his training partner, Thomas Brunold, both previous Madison Marathon winners, to train and race alongside me. They definitely help me through any rough spots along the way.  

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Emily: The course is great — both scenic and challenging!  
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

Madison Marathon Profile: Douglas Dulli

Madison, WI runner and neurologist Douglas Dulli (62) did not start running until just before his 40th birthday. He ran the very first Madison Marathon in 1994 and this year, the November 9 Madison Marathon will mark his 100th marathon event.

 Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked him about why he runs.

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Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Douglas: Eight.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
Douglas:  I've run 94 marathons and have signed up for six more this year, the last – number 100 - being the Madison Marathon on November 9. I’ve done approximately 35 half-marathons.

Douglas Dulli competes not just in marathons, his favorite type of endurance event, but also triathlons. Here he shows a tough countenance during the 2013 Devil's Challenge Triathlon. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Douglas: I love the longer distance triathlons (half and full IronMan) because they are so much fun and much in the spirit of marathoning.  I run many shorter races, both to keep up my tempo speed and to participate in these wonderful community events. Lake Monona and Shamrock Shuffle are two of my favorites, as are the Berbee Derby, the sprint triathlons of the Wisconsin Tri Series, the High Cliff and Door County half-IronMans.  

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Douglas: I've run the Boston Marathon 10 times, beginning in 1994 when there were only 8,700 competitors. My personal record in the marathon is 3:06:27, set in 1995 at Lakefront Marathon, at age 44.

My race highlights include:

• IronMan Wisconsin: 5 times (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011)
• 50-mile ultra marathon:  2 times
• Half-IronMan triathlon: about 12 times
• Community 5/10/15/20K running races and sprint triathlon: too many to count
• Birkebeiner XC ski race: 2 times 
• 100-mile bicycle races (e.g., Dairyland Dare, Oconomowoc 100, Race the Lake): about 10

Douglas Dulli’s Personal Story

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Douglas: Endurance races all have a sense of adventure in the challenge of merely getting to the finish line. With the marathon, "hitting the wall" at mile 17 or so may literally take one out of the race. With experience, that adventure becomes more rather than less exciting to me...I love every aspect of the race, from the preparation the night before to crossing mile 26 and seeing the big "FINISH" in the distance. Even when I don't do as well, I have the satisfaction of putting on that finisher's medal, and the reward of 26 miles worth of endorphin. There's nothing like it!

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  
Douglas: I am from Madison and am first and foremost a marathon runner. It fits! The Madison Marathon is neither easy nor especially predictable. But it's my home and since most of my running "career" has been on its streets, I feel a special bond to it.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Douglas: I've coached first-time marathoners for the fundraiser "Train to End Stroke" and the Disney Marathon. I've trained with Movin' Shoes and HeadHunters, a local triathlon club. I also ran with my son to pace him for his first marathon.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Douglas: It's well supported, it's a lot of fun, but it "ain't easy"!

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share
Douglas: All endurance athletes have a favorite or "specialty" race. Mine is the marathon. But we all, as athletes, have found such rewards associated with running, biking, swimming, or skiing distance that I am excited to see this culture as a whole develop. I'm particularly glad to see the proliferation of races like the Madison Half-Marathon, which makes endurance running more attainable for beginners or runners with their own challenges. Above all these benefits, I think it's most inspiring to be able to think of oneself as an athlete, a concept which is so foreign to many of us who didn't excel in high school team sports. The many other cardiac and health benefits are so important but secondary to that psychological one. 

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in the Madison Half Marathon or Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014.  For more information and to register, visit Madison Marathon. 

- Interview by Deb Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Becky Pelnar

Madison, Wisconsin runner Becky Pelnar (28) has overcome injury to run - and has her sights set on improving her marathon time.  Pelnar has completed six Half Madison Marathons and is training for her first Full Madison Marathon on November 9.

Focal Flame Photography, the official race photography firm for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.

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With a smile elicited by the sheer joy of running, Becky Pelnar pursues the sport she has come to love. Taken during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
Becky Pelnar:  One full marathon and nine half marathons.

FFP: Have you participated in other events aside from the Madison Marathon?
Becky: I have run the Haunted Hustle, Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash, Ugly Sweater 5K, and Electric Run 5K.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Becky:  I trained for the Madison Marathon in May 2012, but it was cancelled due to the heat so I ran the half instead.  During my training I developed Achilles problems, but I still signed up for the Haunted Hustle Marathon that October.  Due to my injury I did not train at all but still ran the entire Haunted Hustle and managed to finish under 5 hours (not great, but not terrible for my first full marathon, especially with a lack of training).  I'm running the Madison Marathon this November to try to get a better time!

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?  
Becky: All it takes is one race to get someone hooked.  The adrenaline, the excitement and camaraderie from fellow racers, and the support from spectators can be all the motivation someone needs to participate in a race.  For me, I love getting to run through my hometown here in Madison, seeing familiar faces and places along the way.  I get to support my city while feeling an amazing sense of accomplishment and pride at the same time.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?
Becky:   I love starting and ending at the Capitol!  I think overall the course showcases some of the best features of Madison — the Arboretum, Governor's Mansion, Monroe Street, etc.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Becky: Get ready to enjoy a beautiful course, motivating spectators, and of course some delicious beer at the end (the real motivation, after all!) 

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know
Becky:  I always tell people, if I can run a race, ANYONE can.  I never used to be a runner, but all it takes is pushing yourself a little further and further each time.  You just need to remember to relax, enjoy the scenery as you go, and smile.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in the Madison Half Marathon or Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon. 

- Interview by Deb Proctor

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

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.

Madison Marathon Profile: Krissy Schintgen

Triumphant runner Krissy Schintgen crosses the finish line of her first 5K alongside her daughter in June, 2013. Photo credit: Katie Richard, Focal Flame Photography

Running changes everything. Just ask Krissy Schintgen (33) of Middleton, Wisconsin. After years of struggling with the crippling effects from two strokes, Krissy decided to fight back. Starting little by little, she trained for Girls On The Run with daughter, Lily, then did the unthinkable and ran right next to Lily during the 2013 Girls On The Run 5K in June, 2013. Krissy began training for longer distances and became a half-marathon finisher at the Madison Marathon in November, 2013. She will be doing two Madison Marathon events in 2014: the half-marathon on May 25 and her first-ever full marathon on November 9.

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events as well as Girls On The Run of Dane County, asked her about why she runs.

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

Krissy: One event, soon to be three.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?

Krissy: Yes - Glow Run, Mud Run, Color Me Rad, UW Madison Races, Shamrock Shuffle, Cannonball Run, Girls On The Run and the Parkinson's Half Marathon.

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

Krissy: After a year of training, I ran my first Half Marathon. I also set up a virtual race and raised $1,100; 100 percent of the funds were donated to the Challenged Athletes Foundation.

FFP: I love your email moniker, "notfastjustfabulous." Is there a race story behind it?

Krissy: The name Not Fast Just Fabulous actually comes from my personal story of overcoming adversity. [Author's Note: To read more about Krissy's running journey, visit her blog Not Fast, Just Fabulous.]

Krissy's Personal Story

Krissy Schintgen rocks the 2014 Madison Shamrock Shuffle, sporting a brilliant smile despite high winds and cold temperatures. Photo credit: Clint Thayer, Focal Flame Photography

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

Krissy: After years of struggling with crippling pain, depression, and physical limitations due to two strokes, I decided to fight back. I threw aside my cane, stopped taking the heavy medication that left me dazed and unmotivated, and stepped outside. At first I walked, then I jogged, and now I run to remind myself that anything is possible.

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

Krissy: It’s a special race because it was where I accomplished my biggest and most inspirational personal goal ever.

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

Krissy: Last November I crossed the finish line with two extremely amazing pacers who believed in me when I wanted to quit;  I wore a pink tutu and cape that read “Not Fast Just Fabulous”. This May’s half marathon will be special because my husband will be running with me, his first race ever! In November, I will be running my first MARATHON…. and with my husband! We are going to be wearing wedding apparel and renewing our vows at the finish line for our 10 year anniversary! 

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

Krissy: Running reminds me that my disabilities do NOT define me. I hope that my journey will help motivate and inspire others to dream beyond their abilities and take it one step at a time.

- 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.