• January: Jack Caress

  Pacific Sports

  I started directing events in the late 1970s when college friends from UC Irvine created the Rusty Pelican Human Race Triathlon in Newport Beach, CA. We directed the race by committee and by the early 80s I had taken over the race director duties individually. At the time I was working on a PhD and owned my first triathlon store, Sportech, in Irvine, CA. The excitement of producing events was and still is extremely gratifying. I am very results driven and being able to put together projects with my team fits my personality. Designing of the course, marketing the race, building the collateral package and working with the cities to create a fun, fulfilling and safe event--and then produce it--is still a great joy. The events themselves provide experiences where people of all ages complete their personal goals, raise money for charity, market a sponsor's product, and provide jobs for our staff and economic benefit for the locations where we produce events. Being able to see a completed event where all the elements come together is something I will probably never tire of doing.

  My firm, Pacific Sports LLC, and I have been fortunate to produce over 400 events around the world. We've raised millions for charity, served over 500,000 participants, paid over $4 million in professional prize money and earned a living in sports on top of it. Now my three sons all compete and even work on our events. It must be in the genes, that aspect definitely keeps me motivated. We've had some fun experiences traveling and participating ourselves.

  Producing a World Championship and a dozen national championships have been definite high points along with creating new events in places I had never visited prior to their development. To be a significant part of the founding of Triathlon America, the industry trade organization for triathlon, and be selected as its President has been a great honor. We have a great group of founding members and I hope the legacy and long-time nourishment of our sport can be the capstone on my involvement in triathlon. But by no means are we done creating new events and making the ones we have better. Again, I am very fortunate.

  Pacific Sports has been working with Active Network since 1999. In those days, it was like the Wild West. Many companies – most were mom-and-pop operations – were mingling their registration monies with operating costs, which meant the sky could fall at any moment. Active eventually bought the company we'd been with, which turned out to be a good thing for us because Active brought legitimacy and sound fiscal practices to the online registration industry. By being part of Active, our events reach a giant database of endurance athletes because everyone in the industry goes to Active.com.

  Pacific Sports LLC has produced over 400 multisport events throughout the world. Jack himself has competed in over 400 participant sporting events including the Ironman World Triathlon Championship in Kona on four occasions.

  Read more about Jack Caress and Pacific Sports LLC
  Watch a webinar where Jack was part of a panel of experts who discussed how to organize great races that inspire participant loyalty

  
  

  
  

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• December: Mary Anderson

  Anderson Race Management

  Mary Anderson started her own company, Anderson Race Management (ARM), in 1996 after serving in various volunteer roles for hundreds of races. ARM has grown to the point that it now organizes 200+ races each year. Most recently, ARM and Explore Minnesota Tourism, the travel promotion office of the State of Minnesota, launched a new statewide running series called "Explore Minnesota Challenge." This series of more than 25 races in locations around the state of Minnesota encourages runners and walkers to participate in eight of the events, including at least one in each of four different areas of the state. Mary has been and continues to be a leading figure in the endurance industry.

  When Mary originally set up Anderson Race Management, she decided to use Active Network's event management software. She was familiar with Active.com because she had used the site to register for events. Active.com's long history in the endurance industry and reputation as the place find events was the main reason Mary decided to get involved with Active Network. And it has paid off by helping her attract more participants to her start lines. "Just the fact that people know they can go on Active.com and discover what's going on locally, or when traveling, is probably the biggest boost for increasing participation. This taps us into markets we wouldn't otherwise have and brings in non-local money."

  The online registration software has also helped Mary scale her business so it can grow. Currently about 80% of registrations for the events she manages are done online (some races offer online registration exclusively), but that wasn't always the case. Previously Mary would do all the data entry for paper registrations, which was no small task. Encouraging her clients to use Active Network's online registration software has saved her a lot of time. Plus, the system allows her to ask participants more questions and get more information than ever before. There's also the comfort of people knowing how to register online; that it's easy for anyone to do. "I'd say 95% of my clients use Active Network because they look to me for guidance. Now it's much easier."

  Mary estimates that she saves a minimum of 20 hours per race by eliminating manual data entry, as well as relying on Active Network's customer service to handle participant questions. That's adds up to a lot of time when you multiply it by 200 races a year!

  The network effect that Active creates helps Mary keep the wheels moving on 200 bike/walk/run races every year by helping her GET greater response from people across the country, MANAGE the needs of scores of various racing events, and continue to BUILD a trusted resource event organizers can depend on.

  Read more about Mary and Anderson Race Management

  Watch a webinar where Mary was part of a panel of experts who discussed how to organize great races that inspire participant loyalty

  
  

  
  

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• November:Mike & Maureen Meldrum

  Volunteer Friends for the Cure®

  There is a day in the Motor City when you can hear the rumble of a race through the streets. What you're hearing isn't wheels; it's feet, racing for a cause. It's Detroit's annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®, and it has graced this city since 1992.

  Volunteer Friends for the Cure® Chair Mike Meldrum, along with wife Maureen Meldrum, Race Chair and breast cancer-survivor, work with Komen Detroit's staff of four to pull off the event year after year. While participant numbers continue to grow — this year (2011), more than 40,000 people took part — the organization, which has raised $21 million since its inception, saw fundraising (Friends for the Cure) revenue jump by 10% over the previous year largely due to Active Network's online fundraising software.

  Simply by the numbers, Komen Detroit Race for the Cure is a major undertaking. All the more reason to implement management processes as streamlined as possible. Mike stresses that their goal has always been to grow — not only in the number of participants, but in overall community awareness and in funds raised, so integrating technology changes quickly and efficiently, while keeping everything moving forward, was paramount.

  The many tools available through Active's race management and fundraising software have helped streamline tasks and save time. At this point more than 90% of race participants register online, so simply eliminating the need to input 40,000 entries is a big deal for this small but mighty nonprofit organization. The customization options have made a huge difference when it comes to team management, not just the reports and rosters, but even down to a customized packing slip for team pack-up. The event also depends on a bevy of volunteers, and with Active's volunteer management software, committee chairs can easily communicate with their volunteers, making planning, thanking, inspiring and day-of tasks run more smoothly.

  Overall, the network effect that Active creates helps Mike give Detroit a day to remember every year by helping him GET more dollars raised for this important cause, MANAGE time and tasks for all involved in the planning, and continue to BUILD community awareness for the event and its cause.

  "Our tactic is to make our participants feel like this is the best day in the city of Detroit." Registration is already open for the 2012 Komen Detroit Race for the Cure®, click here to learn more.

  
  

  
  

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• October:Marty Epstein

  New Jersey Gran Fondo

  In December 2010 Marty Epstein decided it would be a good idea to bring a Gran Fondo bike event to New Jersey. He had no idea what he was getting into. Not only was it the first such undertaking this bike shop owner had ever journeyed into, but just days before the August 2011 event was scheduled, hurricane Irene hit. Still, with so much blood, sweat and tears invested, Marty wasn't giving up. He rescheduled, rerouted the course to account for flooded out roads, and held the event September 18 on a surprisingly gorgeous day that New Jersey residents were more than ready to embrace.

  There's nothing quite like a Gran Fondo. Though common in Europe, it's a pretty new thing in the States, with the first one in San Diego in 2009. The New Jersey Gran Fondo saw a particular kind of athlete. With 43-, 63- and 103-mile courses and challenging terrain, it wasn't for the faint of heart. Each course had climbs, with the longer two courses including timed climbs of two and four miles, respectively. Marty's quick to remind you, though, "it's a bike ride, not a race. It's the next great level of event," he says, and the fact that cities across the country are having them seems to bear him out.

  Initially there were 1000 registrations for the 2011 event. That was before the hurricane. Still, the event saw more than 600 bike enthusiasts. Not bad for a first. Marty knew that getting word out to the right athletes was crucial, so he turned to the experts at Active Network.

  As a bike enthusiast himself, he'd used Active.com as a participant. Still, he researched options, and the more he read the more he knew Active would help him get the national exposure he wanted. "Not many registration sites are as large and cooperative as Active, so it's really the only place to be," he says. "Plus Active gives full service: online registration, ActiveGiving for the fundraising aspect, even a volunteer module." One of the most impressive things to come from his Active alliance was garnering out-of-state registrations of 20 percent – from 20 different states.

  "I did this almost on a whim," he says, "though I thought it would be good for our store's reputation, for the New Jersey bike industry and for New Jersey itself. Looking back, I didn't realize what a leap of faith it was." But Marty was determined to give bikers something different, to build community, to help the economy and the area, to promote healthy living and the wellbeing of people and the community in an environmentally sound way. Three charities benefited from his hard work: The Seeing Eye, raising dogs for the blind; Homeless Solutions, providing shelter, transitional housing and other services; and Grow it Green Morristown, promoting sustainability.

  The ride ran smoothly, the post-event Fondo Festival with food, music and fun was a blast, and plans are underway for a 2012 event. With Marty at the lead, New Jersey just might become the go-to spot for bike enthusiasts across the country.

  Marty's event website can be found here: http://granfondonj.com

  
  

  
  

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• September:Robert Espinoza, Founder

  Fleet Feet Sports Savannah

  Robert Espinoza says, "Put on an event, not just a race. It's like setting a dinner table – the better the spread; the more people want to eat." As the president, owner and operator of Fleet Feet Sports in Savannah, Georgia, Robert has put on more than just a dinner party or race. Espinoza has almost single-handedly kick started the running scene in Savannah.

  Nine years ago, Robert opened his shoe store in Savannah after moving from Austin, Texas. Since then, he helped start the first Susan G. Komen Savannah Race for the Cure in 2009 and partnered with the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon series – which is sold-out for the inaugural full and half marathons to take place on November 5th of this year in Savannah. As the race director for the Savannah River Bridge Run, Robert has increased participation to nearly 6,000 attendees. Since becoming the director for Critz Tybee Run in 2009, the event has sold out in 2010 and 2011 and will be expanded to a two-day running festival in 2012.

  Not only has Robert helped grow the participation for major Savannah running events, he also helps put on smaller events as much as possible. Robert contributes to 5K races nearly every weekend that help numerous charities raise money and increase awareness for their causes. In April of 2010, major Savannah news station, WTOC, named Robert a Hometown Hero for the "positive impact he has had on the city of Savannah and its residents, charities, runners and walkers."

  Robert seems to have mastered the art of attracting attendees to his endurance events. He mentioned that the key to getting participants, managing the process, and building the community is to make it fun. He always strives to get as much of the community involved by playing music, offering great food, and having costume contests, "kiddie" runs, guest speakers, and other post-race activities. After building the fun into the event, he makes sure to market and promote the event through many avenues.

  For his race events, Espinoza offers online registration and payment processing through Active Network. Next, he typically sets up a Facebook page for the race to further spread the word. After that, he creates an individual page on the Fleet Feet Savannah website dedicated to the race event. And finally, by distributing an upcoming race calendar, spreading the word through news and radio stations, offering training groups that work towards the event, and advertising a bit more, Robert has successfully built an endurance event.

  As a client of Active Network, Endurance, Robert Espinoza embodies the traits not only of a great race director, but also a powerful change-maker. For that, he is our Event Director of the Month.

  To learn more about Robert and Fleet Feet Sports, visit his website here.

  
  

  
  

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• August:Dan Clark, Founder

  Gladiator Rock'nRun™

  Gladiator Rock'nRun™, billed as “the most insane one-day event on the planet,” isn’t simply a race, marathon, triathlon or any other named endurance competition. It’s truly a unique obstacle course challenging participants to conquer extreme obstacles and harsh terrain – including walls to scale, hills to slide (or tumble) down, mud to slither through, dangerous obstacles to zigzag around and more. And when it’s all done, founder Dan Clark, who some may remember as Nitro from the 1989 – 1997 run of the American Gladiator TV series, a show that tested the mettle of amateur athletes with a range of endurance games, hosts a post-race party filled with music, beer and food. It’s an opportunity for everyone to have a great time, to be inspired not by the workout or competition, but by the entire experience. As the event’s tagline states, “It’s not a race. It’s an experience.”

  The first Gladiator Rock’nRun, staged in Los Angeles in 2010, drew 2500 participants despite cold, dreary weather; the most recent hosted up to 7500, plus spectators. That growth came about through word of mouth, in part because Dan believes in consumer-to-consumer marketing.

  The Rock’nRun has a website and Active Network, Endurance’s online registration and race management software, but no ads are placed in racing magazines. Given the committed soul of the endurance athlete, and that the event is unlike any other, word gets out, while Active’s customer support team has helped him keep pace. He appreciates how his assigned rep makes him feel he’s the only client in the world. “She’s a great guide, with good ideas. Other companies have approached me, but the customer support Active gives to me, and to Rock’nRun participants, leads the pack.”

  Dan is a natural in this arena, and Active a natural partner for his unique style as an event director. His belief that, “Everything has to carry the spirit of the event,” keeps him involved, start to finish, including scouting and designing each course. But what helps keep him in the race is his ability to delegate, or in this instance, outsource. He has surrounded himself with the best, hiring on local talent to execute course setup, and Active Network, Endurance to provide software tools for online registration and race management software. He likes Active’s Facebook integration on his registration pages, peruses the comments posted, and has been known to post encouragement and shout-outs, such as “Better get those legs ready. QUADS OF THE GODS obstacle is going to be a beast!” for those due to compete in the Pasadena Rose Bowl Rock’nRun this October. It’s one of the ways he keeps a personal touch alive in an event that could end up being just another sea of race participants going from start to finish.

  Dan’s passion for creating something entirely different is reflected on the event’s website, http://www.gladiatorrocknrun.com/ and his ongoing tweets keep the power of social media, of consumer-to-consumer marketing, pumping and Gladiator Rock’nRun the go-to event for endurance athletes across the country.

  Note: Gladiator Rock’nRun™ is not affiliated with the television show American Gladiator.

  
  

  
  

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• July:Aaron Del Mar, Executive Race Director

  Adrenaline Sports Management

  My company, Adrenaline Sports Management, was founded in 2008 and specializes in the development and production of athletic events throughout the state of Illinois and beyond.

  Every event we organize is managed by a skilled team of professionals—I honestly believe we are the best in the country at what we do. We pay attention to details and do our best to ensure that each event will be an enjoyable and exhilarating experience for everyone involved.

  We currently organize several events each year including the Santa Shuffle 5K, Lake Carroll Triathlon, Halloween Hustle 5K, and the Bunny Dash, making us one of the most competitive sports events management groups in the Chicago area. Every one of our events is tied to a charity or some type of philanthropic cause. It’s important to both our team and our clients to "give back" and we’ve supported charities such as Toys for Tots, the Children’s Memorial Hospital and Back on My Feet.

  In addition to our event management services, we also offer marketing, advertising, press and media relations, and sponsorship coordination services. Marketing is a huge part of event management and is one of the main reasons why we like working with Active so much. Active is the only company that provides both race management technology and the ability to promote races. Every year we launch a variety of marketing campaigns and we track each one with a coupon code so we can see what worked and what didn’t. We’ve used codes on special offer emails, flyers, and Facebook and Twitter posts. It seems like the more creative we are, the more success we have. For example, we were one of the first events to use Active’s new daily deal program, Schwaggle, and we sold out the inventory we were offing in four hours. We get hundreds of runners off the marketing campaigns and that is what makes Active so unique.

  Another aspect of race management that we’ve been successful with has been incorporating sustainable practices into events. Being "green" has been a priority for us from the beginning because it is another way to give back to our communities and it also sets us apart. We do things like separate and compost garbage from events, use renewable power sources, print race shirts on 100% recycled cotton, offer paperless online goodie bags, etc. This can add more expense, but the participants love it and I really think it helps us drive numbers. Plus, it’s a great way to attract sponsors. For example, Whole Foods is a sponsor of ours and their involvement really adds validity to the event and increases exposure.

  Our approach to business has worked well for us and we are expanding rapidly—we are excited to be adding at least eight additional events to our calendar by 2013.

  To learn more about Adrenaline Sports Management, visit: http://www.adrenalinesportsmanagement.com/asm/default.aspx

  
  

  
  

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• June:Dori Ingalls, Event Organizer

  (pictured with Bart Yasso)

  Mad Marathon

  Dori Ingalls started running seriously at the age of four—and she still hasn’t stopped almost 5 decades later! A seventh generation Vermonter, Dori with husband Ian Sweet has taken a dormant germ of an idea for a marathon in the Mad River Valley and cross-pollinated it with enthusiastic local support, extensive global experience and risk-taking savvy to create ‘The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the inaugural Mad Marathon.’ Dori reminds us, “You only have one shot at an inaugural event, and people who run long races have long memories. The race is attracting an incredible amount of global attention and therefore the runners are expecting all the stops to be pulled out.”

  It is almost as if the seas are parting for the Mad Marathon to take its place in the world marathon circuit: Dori includes 10 countries, 40 states and 750 pairs of feet in the roster of runners. Dori thinks there will be an influx of local and regional runners to bring the total field to 1,000.

  It helps that: MM (Mad Marathon) is one of the last New England qualifiers of the year for the Boston Marathon; MM worked with Run Vermont to find a date that made sense in the national marathon calendar; alma mater Middlebury adopted MM for a capital campaign; sportsworld friends paid back favors that Dori forgot were owed; experts in the field got jazzed and offered to work, provide publicity, expertise and moral support for the behind-the-scenes marathon necessary to pull off a safe and beautiful run.

  It looks easy, but you can be assured that the organizing of the MM requires as much dedication, skill and perseverance as the runners themselves require. This kind of enthusiastic signup from around the world changes the scope of the event from a simple Sunday morning jog to a world class showcase.

  During a break from booking room reservations (filling up fast in the MRV), navigating visas, getting road permits and pulling in sponsorships, When asked about the biggest challenge of her sporting career, Dori is unhesitating in her response: This race! But with this caveat:

  "I am very proud of members of this amazing community that have come forward with support, whether to work as volunteers, with assistance in developing aspects of the race, and of course our sponsors. None of this would have been possible without this enthusiasm. It enables me to take the risk and make the effort in creating this event. I feel very grateful."

  Dori Ingalls has a mission to make the Mad Marathon distinctively different from the thousands of races that are available to runners, and believes the only way to do that is to show the world why the Mad River Valley is her community of choice. As she states on her web homepage: “The Mad Marathon crew is a collection of avid runners, road and mountain bikers, skiers, kayakers, golfers and just about any players in the outdoors. The team is looking forward to sharing their passion for sport and introducing racers to this extraordinary community and race experience in the Mad River Valley.

  For more information about the Mad Marathon contact Dori Ingalls and Ian Sweet at 802-496-5393. madmarathon.com.

  
  

  
  

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• May:David Penrose, Co-Race Director

  Bellingham Bay Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

  The Bellingham Bay Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K (BBM) started in 2007. This event is held annually on the last Sunday in September. BBM originated as a fundraiser for the Bellingham Bay Swim Team (BBST). Bellingham Bay Athletic Association now manages BBM and includes BBST and Whatcom Football Club Rangers youth organizations as its beneficiaries with the intention to broaden our scope to other beneficiary organizations. BBM, in turn, benefits from the volunteer contributions made by these organizations. Net proceeds will benefit the Bellingham Bay Swim Team and the WFC Rangers soccer club. Both are not-for-profit youth organizations

  As participant experience and safety are high on our list of event objectives, we have revised the marathon course every year to reduce elevation and turns while providing a more visually appealing and safe course. In 2010, the marathon course was changed to a point-to-point starting on the Lummi Indian Reservation on Gooseberry Point. Lummi Nation has been a welcome partner in supporting an event that is quickly proving to be a cultural bridge between our communities. With our 2011 marathon course, we also enjoy being the race with one of the lowest elevation gains in the region. It’s a fast course!

  While I have enjoyed running many marathons including Boston, NYC, Marine Corps, Portland, Seattle and Vancouver, I find none compare to the beauty of the seascapes, mountain vistas, island views, country roads and urban life which is so richly experienced in the Bellingham Bay Marathon. In fact, I enjoy this marathon so much, that our race committee gives me a few hours off the last Sunday each September so that I can run in the race, too.

  For more information on the Bellingham Bay Marathon visit http://www.bellinghambaymarathon.org.

  
  

  
  

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• April:Jeff Maher, Event Director

  The Dino Dash

  Helping kids run for science…

  My history as an event director goes back to my college days. While attending the University of Central Arkansas, I planned several events, including the Tour de Toad bike race, which was a lot of fun. This year is the 12th annual Dino Dash, which benefits Little Rock’s Museum of Discovery, and will be my fourth consecutive year as race director.

  About 5 years ago, I joined my local running club and right off the bat became interested in volunteering, planning, and directing events. I mostly worked as a volunteer, but as I learned more and more about race directing under the mentorship of legendary local race director Bill Torrey, I took on a more senior role. I was nominated by my peers to succeed the previous director and I’ve been in the position for almost four years. In addition to directing the Dino Dash, I help to direct other fitness-oriented events throughout the year, including a community awards banquet honoring the promotion of healthy lifestyles. I serve as a board member of the Little Rock Roadrunners Club, and am also on the Governor’s Council on Fitness, which seeks to encourage health and wellness throughout Arkansas. Most recently I earned my certification as a RRCA certified running coach to help runners develop personalized training programs for runners, administer basic CPR and First Aid, and be able to answer many of the common running questions.

  About the Event and the Cause
  The Dino Dash is one of the most popular running events of the year here in Little Rock. Unlike some other events in the city, the Dino Dash is aimed squarely at kids and youth runners with a goal of raising money for the local Museum of Discovery. The event includes a 5K race, a 1K family fun run and Discovery Fest, a free music and food festival that showcases the local science museum to the entire community. It is truly a family event, with 600 runners taking part in the 5K race, an additional 100 participating in the 1K and 30-40 in the stroller and wheelchair division. As popular as the races are, the kids love the official race warm-up exercise session, led by event mascot Lilo the Dinosaur. All net proceeds from the Dino Dash go directly to support the museum. In 2010 alone, Museum activities touched the lives of almost 469,000 children and adults. School groups from 62 of Arkansas’ 75 counties and five other states participated in Museum programs. Museum educators provided outreach programs to more than 17,000 students in 37 counties in Arkansas. More than 44,000 students attended Museum programs as part of a school field trip and science curriculum. An additional 56,300 children and adults attended Museum programs throughout the year as part of a family activity. Our visitors are primarily school groups and families, and they reflect Arkansas’ ethnic, religious and racial diversity.

  The Museum of Discovery also received a $9.2 million grant to completely renovate the Museum of Discovery. Construction began in December of 2010. The Museum closed its doors April 3, 2011 to the general public to complete the renovation process. The Museum will remain closed for the remainder of 2011 and will reopen in January of 2012. While the Museum is physically closed, special education programs will continue in other areas in Central Arkansas. You may keep up with the renovations by visiting www.anewmod.org.

  Outside of event planning, I work as a full-time certified public accountant. I make time for event planning and volunteering during lunches, on weekends and after work. Thankfully, the Dino Dash is a well-established event that is run and planned efficiently with many eager volunteers, so I still have time to spend with my family. I love giving back to the community and directing an event that not only helps kids learn about the importance of physical fitness, but also about the exciting world of science.

  For more information on the Dino Dash visit http://www.museumofdiscovery.org.

  
  

  
  

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• March:Les Smith, Event Director

  Portland Marathon

  In 1981 Les Smith, then President of the Oregon Road Runners Club, decided to run his third Portland Marathon. It was the year of the 10th Anniversary of the event. As it turned out, the event was a disaster. Among other things, the marathon did not start on time, mile markers were not up and aid stations were not ready. That year about 450 finished the event.

  Les, by profession a nationally recognized management labor relations attorney and by background a former Vietnam era Army Officer decided to use his organizational skills to remodel the Portland Marathon. He formed a new 15 person committee, gained one strong sponsor, studied a dozen successful events and then built on those models. Thereafter the event grew in size and stature. By 1990 the event had five sub events, including the early version of the Event Directors College.

  Now with 11,000 registrants in the Marathon, 3500 in a limited charity oriented Half Marathon and another 2500 in related events, the nonprofit Portland Marathon has a committee of 65...plus 4500 volunteers. Les notes, "The Committee with its average of 18 years of seniority each makes my job easy."

  The event for the last five years has been Portland's largest convention and has an out of town registration of almost 75%. 58% of the registrants are women. The Portland Marathon is now also proud to have an outstanding local charity program that last year helped over 17 Official Charities raise collectively nearly $1/2M for their programs.

  This year the Portland Marathon will celebrate its 40th Anniversary and Les his 30th year as Event Director. When asked how long he wants to continue Les said, "Our Committee is like a Family and I have been blessed to have known or now know the key folks in our industry. I like to pass the knowledge I now have along to those who are new. And I plan to continue to be the Event Director for as long as it is a learning experience and fun. And, believe me, it is fun!"

  For more information on the Event Director’s college and Portland Marathon - visit http://www.portlandmarathon.org/.

  
  

  
  

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• January:Jeff Cole, Race Director

  The Fireman Triathlon

  A truly spirited community event...

  Race directing was an unplanned evolution for me. As a member of our local fire department, I assisted in lending a hand to a fledgling event that depended on a regional race production company for management expertise in the days leading up to and including race day for the previous decade. It was a successful relationship but as my personal racing experience grew, and our event The FireMan likewise gained more prominence, it became apparent that our organization was sufficiently capable to plan, stage and execute the race entirely. In doing so, our fundraising efforts would be able to take a huge leap forward. Since I was one of two department members with any triathlon racing experience, I became the RD by unanimous acclamation. I must’ve missed that meeting.

  The event has developed significantly over the ten years of my direction, in terms of scope and race distances. For two years, our races were split between dates in June and August but in 2009, we finally found the formula for success for our area and time of year, and staged Olympic and Short Course Sprint races coincidentally. The FireMan swim is an open ocean course started from the beach where the 250 or so Olympic course athletes go off first in a mass start and swim two circuits of a .75K loop with a short ITU-like beach run in between. As this grouping concludes their swim, the 400 or so short course athletes begin in staged waves to swim a 1/3 mile, three legged course. The bike courses begin by riding beneath a huge American flag suspended above the roadway from the department’s 100’ ladder truck and find their way along the shore and through the rural sections of the community, the Olympic of 24 miles, the short course about 16, and return back to the transition area at the beach to conclude with a 10K Olympic course run or a 3.1 mile short course jaunt. Following the finish, all competitors and spectators are treated to a shore side blueberry pancake and fresh fruit breakfast hosted by our event partners from the local American Legion Post.

  The FireMan Triathlons serve as USAT’s state club championship, USAT-Northeast Region’s Youth Development Series finale, and the state qualifier for the Best of the US Competition. In 2003, our race served as host race for USAT’s U23 National Championship. Some years have seen former President George H.W. Bush off the beach in his boat Fidelity observing the swim start.

  With the support of the entire community, proceeds from the FireMan Triathlons provide funding for annual scholarship grants to high school seniors heading to further their studies, grants to the local animal shelter, Kennebunk Free Library, hockey boosters, high school football team, the town’s parks and rec department, The Maine Children’s Cancer Program, and our local Boy Scouts of America troop. In prior year’s we’ve supported the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team-in-Training program by donating back their entire registration costs. The FireMan Triathlons are truly a spirited community event.

  Being involved in the triathlon community has led me in a number of related efforts with the sport. I’m a co-founder of the Kennebunk Beach Triathlon Club which has grown to see nearly 100 members over the last year, serve on USAT’s Northeast Region Board, and have gained USAT’s Certified Race Director credential. As well, I have launched Tri Ventures LLC to provide race services to area race directors and created BodyMarx.com as a provider of race day body marking decals. I had considered body marking decals in the past but found them to be scarce and outside of most event budgets so found a better way to affordably produce a one piece race number decal that includes logo space for the event brand or that of a prime sponsor. Age designation, Pro, and Relay decals are also available. Launched in early January, the interest has been overwhelming. Complete information can be found at www.bodymarx.com

  For more information on The Fireman Triathlon visit www.wkfiretri.com.

  
  

  
  

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• November:Mike Barber, Event Director

  Santa to the Sea Half Marathon

  Restoring Santa helps restore a community and its youth...

  Mike Barber is a retired union ironworker from Los Angeles, CA. local 433. A few years ago Mike saved the largest Santa in the world. After restoring Santa and building a small park around him we started our annual toy give-away on the Saturday before Christmas. We focused on giving toys to underprivileged kids many of whom this was the only gift they would receive at Christmas. As the economy deteriorated the demand for our toys grew and we needed a way to step up our toy donations. As a casual runner myself I always had a dream of running a marathon unfortunately the physical demands of my job prevented me. So, I thought why not start a Half Marathon and call it Santa To The Sea. Oxnard, Ca. is close to the ocean, and we could showcase our city with a coarse that is flat, fast and make it a fun event for the whole family and help kids at Christmas.

  This will be our 3rd annual Santa To The Sea and the business community in Ventura County has really embraced this event( check out our website www.santatothesea/partners ).Our sponsors have really stepped up to the plate to help us with everything from cash, volunteers, raffle prizes, goodie bag inserts, advertising and toys. We’ve formed many partnerships including, The Boys and Girls Club, United Way, Habitat for Humanity ,local schools, local officials , Chamber of Commerce and the Oxnard Visitors and Convention Bureau.

  This year we are working very hard to make this a green event. We are working with a local compost company " agromin " who will process all our biodegradable, compostable paper cups and grind them into compost. We will not be using single use plastic water bottles and all other plastic will be recycled. We only serve local grown fruits and berries in compostable servings cups made from sugar cane. Our event shirts from Green layer are green shirts made from recycled materials.

  We also established a carpool program through Pick UP Pal who can help runners carpool to our event and we purchased Green Tags to off set our carbon pollution from the buses used to transport runners to the start line. Lastly we purchased our finishers medals from Ashworth Awards which were made right here in the USA.

  Besides the big toy give-away we were successful enough on our second year to be able to start the Santa To The Sea Scholarship Fund helping students realize their dreams of a college education. We were able to send 6 students to college and this year we raised the entry fee so that $5.00 of each entry goes into this fund. We are hopeful that this year we can send 20 students to college, focusing on students with financial hardships. This year we entered into a partnership with Food Share Ventura County and we sponsor a food pantry twice a month to help needy families.

  So as you can see the runners run a great event and have a wonderful time and the proceeds go to help many needy families in Ventura County.

  For more information on how you can help Santa continue his race – visit www.santatothesea.com

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• October:Melanie E. Johnson, Executive Director

  Philadelphia Marathon

  As Philadelphia’s new City Representative in 2008, I assumed the executive director’s position of the Philadelphia Marathon, one of the few municipally-operated marathons in the nation. Although I was new to marathoning, I immediately became passionate about the potential and the impact such a high-profile sporting event could have on Philadelphia as a destination place. The race is produced by the City of Philadelphia with Mayor Michael Nutter’s direct participation. During my time with Philadelphia Marathon –with the help of an excellent staff -- we have stepped up our outreach to engage many corners of the community including the running clubs, the competitors, their families, spectators, retail businesses, hotels, volunteers, charities, our residents and tourists. Our goal is to make sure everyone can be part of the fun, beauty and excitement in one of the most friendly and historically-scenic cities in America (As a lifelong Philadelphia resident, I admit that I’m biased).

  Whether it is through an expansion of the race registration (23,000 participants) and schedule of activities, or through our great Fan Pass discounts offering bargains from local retailers and restaurants, or just coming out on race day to be part of our more than 20 entertainment-filled spectator cheer zones along the course, it is easy to fall in love with the Philadelphia Marathon.

  During race weekend, we have many organizations participating to raise money for charities. We increased our participation among charities from 3 last year to more than 10 in 2010, raising thousands of dollars for worthy causes. And we plan to open up more opportunities for additional charitable organizations in 2011. There are real people behind the waves of humanity that dominate the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on November 20 and 21. Many, as our marathon tag line suggests, are trying to “Push Through” and truly are champions even before setting foot on the start line.

  Our marathon is about hope. Take for example, Linda Novak and her husband Nick, of Telford, PA (Montgomery County). They are recovering from cancer and are resilient, having faced extreme hardship. Linda, 46, is running in the Philadelphia Marathon to raise money for the American Cancer Society. On race day, she will wear a shirt with the names of family and friends who have supported her as a "thank-you" tribute.

  Our marathon is about empowering our youth. Jason Footes, an eighth-grade student in Philadelphia, is now 14 years old and beating the odds that were stacked against him due to childhood obesity. Through Students Run Philly Style, which promotes healthy living among young people through running, Jason has lost 35 pounds and is training for the Philadelphia Marathon. He has dropped weight and gained his confidence.

  Our marathon is about inspiration. Stephen Brown, of Delaware, will participate in one of the Marathon's companion races, the Rothman Institute 8K, on November 20. He is a local Team in Training triathlon coach, a triathlete, writer, speaker, author and leukemia survivor. He is a long-time Philadelphia resident and a 12-time Philadelphia Marathon runner.

  We also are making efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. This year’s marathon will incorporate efficient and responsible ways by recycling products such as our runners’ Heatsheets®, which are made of a metalized polyester film and distributed to warm up the runners at the finish line, and the excess of runners’ medals/ribbons. Recycling bins will be set up at the marathon’s two-day Health and Fitness Expo and on the race course at fluid stations and other designated areas. An official biodegradable pen made of corn by-products was unveiled last year. Material in any unclaimed runner’s bags will be recycled. All extra snack foods for the runners on race day will be distributed to local homeless shelters following the competition, along with all of the outer layers of warm-up clothing discarded by the participants after they leave the starting line. We feel that if we can sustain, we can succeed.

  In the future, we will continue making strides not only with our legs, but with our minds and hearts. Just like our athletes.

  For more information on the Philadelphia Marathon visit: www.philadelphiamarathon.com

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• September:Michael Hogue

  MPH Productions

  Michael Hogue began producing LIVE events in 1984 with a game at El Camino College in Torrance, featuring the US National Soccer Team 2 weeks prior to the 1984 USA Olympics. Since then I have created, and produced over 250 events ranging from International Soccer matches both here and abroad, Track Is Back!, food events featuring celebrity chefs, and numerous 10K, and 5K running events.

  I have along the way created numerous marketing and promotional sponsorship programs for corporate clients including Saturn, McDonalds, AWIN Industries, Souplantation, and numerous others.

  The philosophy of creating events has now evolved into the utilization of many different and new technologies that have forced events, and the people who produce them, to create new ways for the customers and sponsors to experience as one. The current economy certainly dictates that sponsors must be able to see legitimate results from their investment.

  CONQUER THE BRIDGE will remain the greatest challenge of my personal career because of the sheer magnitude of the event, the Government permitting entities that must be dealt with, and the amazing logistics involved in the actual production of the race. My job is to make sure that every participant, and every sponsor, so enjoy their two trips over the Bridge, that we will become the one race each year that they MUST DO! If I accomplish that, then I have done my job. Nothing more, and certainly nothing less can be expected...

  The CONQUER THE BRIDGE-Part Deux 2010, successfully completed year 2 on Labor Day with 2000 runners and walkers completing the 5.3 mile course, which twice crosses the amazing Vincent Thomas Bridge in the Port of Los Angeles. The race participation increased by 20% over 2009, and should continue to see similar growth in 2011.

  Our non-profit is the L.A.P.D. Harbor Division Booster Club which benefits numerous youth activities run by the L.A.P.D. in the San Pedro/Port of L.A. area of Los Angeles.

  My job is to bring the runners, walker, families, and sponsors together for fun, goodwill, and the opportunity to enjoy their experience so they will become repeat partners.

  For more information about Conquer the Bridge and Michael Hogue visit www.conquerthebridge.com

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• August:Steven Taylor, Tour Director

  Bike New York

  Bike New York is best known for producing America’s largest cycling event, a 42–mile, traffic–free ride for some 32,000 cyclists known as the TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour. The organization also puts on regional rides outside NYC, offer free classes to the public, and develop customized bicycle safety and education programs in and around New York City. Bike New York dates back to 1977 and was officially established as a not–for–profit organization in 2000. As Tour Director, Steven Taylor is responsible for managing the organization’s five annual bicycling events. He and an event staff of three handle event planning and logistics; coordinate with city and state officials; and oversee the work of managers, vendors, contract staff, and up to 1,600 volunteers.

  Steven joined the Bike New York staff as coordinator of marshal volunteers in February 2002 and was promoted to Tour Director in October 2002. Since then, he has achieved some remarkable accomplishments to help grow the organization, which include:

  - Designing new cycling events in 4 locations within 100 miles of NYC (East, North and South).
  - Starting 2 events in the heat of July and August, contrary to conventional wisdom.
  - Developing simplified route markings.
  - Introducing a competitive uphill time trial into a recreational bike tour.

  Proceeds from Bike New York events support the operation and growth of its Bicycle Education Program, established in 2004, which offers free classes and trainings for adults and children. Other groups receive direct support from Bike New York, including Recycle–A–Bicycle and the Department of Transportation’s Traffic Safety for New York.

  Additionally, Bike New York has a program allowing charities to use TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour entries for fund–raisers. In 2010, its second year, the program raised half a million dollars for beneficiaries including BronxWorks, City Harvest, Free Arts NYC, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and Voices of September 11.

  For more information about the Santa Clarita Marathon visit www.bikenewyork.org

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• July:Patrick Downing, Event Director

  Santa Clarita Marathon

  The Santa Clarita Marathon was started by the Santa Clarita Runners Club in 1995. In 2000, they approached the City to take over coordination of the event and the City of Santa Clarita accepted. The partnership with the Runners Club and the City has worked out well and the event has flourished.

  Only 40 miles north of Los Angeles, the City of Santa Clarita’s Marathon is a well organized hometown event. The City of Santa Clarita has over 45 miles of trails that the SC Marathon takes full advantage of, making 80% of the route on paved scenic City trails. Keeping the participants in mind, the course is designed around the runner. Organizers try to make the event convenient and enjoyable for all.

  I have been coordinating the Marathon for 10 years as a City of Santa Clarita staff member in the Arts & Events Office. I am very fortunate to work with a great committee from the Santa Clarita Runners Club, as well as Public Safety representatives, and the dedicated City staff.

  Although I was never much of a runner, I did run track in Jr. High School for a few years, and then not much after that. When I was assigned the Marathon in 2000, as part of my job responsibilities with the City, I decided I needed to find out what this marathon thing was all about. My wife and I traveled down to Long Beach to observe how they put on a marathon. While we were down there my wife said, “The best way to observe something is to participate in it”. So at the Expo we both signed up to do the 5K. Training at Tequila Joes the night before was not the best idea of a training program. Somehow, we survived the run but did not get the best time in the world. But we did get a time….a time to beat next time. Just imagine what kind of time I could have gotten if I stayed out of Tequila Joes and really trained. Nonetheless I was hooked and started to do some of our local 5Ks in Santa Clarita. Each time getting one or two minutes faster. I was on my way of getting in shape and living a healthier lifestyle.

  Then, out of nowhere in 2007, I was diagnosed with stage IV Head and Neck Cancer. Planning the Marathon kept my mind off the intense radiation and chemo therapy. I was at the worst part of my treatment on Race Day, and was honored by the committee to be the official starter of the Santa Clarita race. I am now in full remission and continue to run our local 5Ks and look forward to my first half marathon one day. I believe that running, eating well and living a healthy lifestyle will keep the cancer in remission and with the grace of God be cancer free in 2012.

  For more information about the Santa Clarita Marathon visit www.scmarathon.org

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• June:Lonnie Sommers, Event Director

  Race for Fetal Hope

  Helping Save babies’ lives…

  
  

  In 2003 I was a few months away from becoming a parent and a parent of identical twin girls. During a routine checkup, we were diagnosed with a fetal syndrome called Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). We were given two options, terminate or let them die in utero. This ripped out my wife’s and my heart. I would never hear my girls call me “daddy” or ever get to teach them to ride a bike, etc. Hope emerged and a week later we had in-utero surgery (fetal surgery) to save them. Today they are beautiful active and healthy girls.

  My background is in investment banking and I am a CPA. I quit my job as a full time CFO and created an event to raise money and awareness about not only TTTS, but all fetal syndromes called the Race for Fetal Hope. Since 2004, the Race for Fetal Hope has expanded to five cities (Denver, Charlotte, Seattle, Jacksonville and Portland). The event has become a national 5K series with also a very fun family festival. Our event is about family and is about coming for an experience and leaving with a memory. We work very hard to create this experience for participants, sponsors, vendors and spectators. The event is designed for everyone. We feature a unique competitive stroller classification for parents and on course games. Our Children’s Hospital Race for Fetal Hope in Denver (the original event) was named the best 5K out of hundreds of events in 2009 by readers of our regional running magazine.

  Fetal syndromes affect 800,000 pregnancies in the United States every year. This is four times the number of breast cancer diagnosis yearly. Sadly 200 babies die every day in the U.S. due to a fetal syndrome. Because of this, a few years ago we created the Fetal Hope Foundation. Our mission: is to provide support, provide information, fund research, increase awareness and be an outlet for leading medical information pertaining to fetal distresses and syndromes. We are all about arming families and healthcare providers with information and helping to save babies' lives. We are partnered with the top 16 fetal care centers in the United States and have helped some 30,000 families since our inception.

  Today I still work in investment banking and as a CPA. I also own a sports/timing business as well as serve as the chairman and CEO of the Fetal Hope Foundation. I certainly enjoy time with my family and am an avid marathon runner. I also sit on the Kipture Primary School Foundation Board and Running USA Board.

  To learn more about Twin –to-twin transfusion syndrome or about Race for Fetal Hope visit www.fetalhope.org/home.html

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• May:Bill Driskill, Director

  Race Director – Total Body Fitness

  A Tri for all ages...

  
  

  I personally did my first triathlon in 1985 and became hooked on the sport. I was working in hotel management and wanted all of my weekends off for racing triathlons; which was rather difficult being a Banquet Manager, so in 1991 I quit my job and started a company called Total Body Fitness, offering In-Home Personal Training. The next year I started coaching a bunch of marathon runners for a new program called Team in Training, and convinced my best friend from high school, Mark Shaw, to join me in Total Body Fitness as my partner. After a few years of coaching the marathon runners in addition to our personal training clients, we started offering a ‘Triathlon Class’ for the Wildflower Triathlon Festival. When Wildflower started getting so popular that our triathletes could not get in to the race, we put on our own triathlon for the class, and the next year in 1998, offered our first race to the public with our Granite Bay Triathlon.

  After the first triathlon Total Body Fitness, or TBF Racing, the ‘branch’ of TBF devoted to Multi-Sport Events, expanded our race offerings to include Off-Road Duathlons, Mountain Bike Races, Trail Runs, and Kids Events along with more Triathlons. In 2001 we took over the Original TRI for FUN Triathlon Series founded by Sally Edwards, added an Olympic Distance Series called the Tri for Real the next year, and by 2003 had over 30 races – which prompted us to start our Race for Free Volunteer program and bring on a “Key Staff” to keep our races running safely and smoothly. Volunteers at our events, in return for working a four-hour volunteer shift, receive a $40 voucher good at any of our over 70 events. Our TBF Racing Key Staff, in return for working at all of our events, receive a two-week luxury adventure trip to Thailand each year with TBF Travel, our Adventure Travel company. With a full Key Staff and plenty of volunteers, TBF Racing events are always very well staffed and managed – one of the trademarks of our races.

  Fun is another trademark of our TBF Racing events. Athletes are always remarking how much they enjoy the enthusiasm and support they receive at our races. Each athlete feels special from the care and attention given to them at our races. Having their name called as they finish by race announcer Mark Shaw; who knows many of the finishers personally, and being greeted by Bill who constantly roams the races making sure everything is running smoothly, is a personal touch that many of the athletes appreciate. TBF Racing is also known for its low prices, great finish line food, and support for the Triathlon community. TRI Clubs are offered reserved bike racks in transition for their athletes, families are offered special discounts for multiple kids racing, and TBF Racing supports local charities such as the St John’s Shelter for Women and Children and the Special Olympics, and has helped to raise funds for special causes such as Jamie Whitmore’s battle with cancer in 2008.

  At Total Body Fitness our mission is to change lives, one at a time, by introducing people to the Multi-Sport Lifestyle and helping them discover the joy and freedom that comes from being able to set goals and push your body to reach them. With races from our TRI for KIDS Triathlons for boys and girls as young as 5 years old, up to our TBF HIT (Half Iron Triathlon), we have something for everyone that loves to swim, bike, and run. At Total Body Fitness we believe that if you workout, everything else will too!

  To learn more about Total Body Fitness visit www.totalbodyfitness.com/index.html

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• April:Amaury Da Costa, Director

  Excel Events & Productions

  Making Miami a better place...

  
  

  It was when working as the web store manager for a triathlon store that I had my first real contact with the exciting and challenging sport of triathlon. Since the store was involved in local races, I got to attend many of them and see the events from a non-athlete point of view. I have always been actively involved in sports – played soccer for as long as I can remember - but someone that swims, bikes, and then runs fits the description of the word “athlete” much better in my mind. While in the store, an opportunity opened to co-own and start a company with a mission of creating sporting events that would stand out while at the same time give back to the local community. I trusted it could be done, so since early 2007 I have been working full time in the production and organization of significant triathlon events

  As a co-director for the now well known Miami International Triathlon, and as race director of another great successful event called Miami Nice Triathlon, I’ve gained the knowledge and experience needed to plan, organize and deploy triathlon events of great magnitude and impact.

  Events we produce:
  

  MIT – Miami International Triathlon
  Miami Nice Triathlon
  SheROX Miami Triathlon
  Ironman 70.3 Miami

  We had the pleasure to work with and generate in-numerous benefits to several different non-profit organizations, including:
  

  Hands-on-Miami (handsonmiami.org), an organization that focus on empowering volunteer projects throughout the City of Miami

  Working with Hands on Miami and the City of Miami, our goal is to plant 1,000 trees during the course of the years which will make Miami a better place! These trees will not only make Miami look nice but also will be strategically planted in places around the City where a natural shade is needed and near a water source so they can be sustained and live for many years to come!

  Our events are professionally build and developed to be “one of a kind” sport events. Besides giving participants and spectators a remarkable experience, our events generate utmost benefits to involved companies and sponsors, consequently causing a positive social and economic impact in the local market. By creating awareness for recreation and healthy lifestyles and engaging local charities and non-profitable organizations, Excel Events & Productions assures that every effort taken contributes to society in a positive and vigorous manner.

  To learn more about Excel Events and Productions visit www.excel.us.com

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• March: Julie Talbert, Co–Founder/Race Director

  Calabasas Classic 5K 10K Runs

  A run for the community...

  I grew up in a family that was always participating in group events. For over 20 years, my family was active in the LA Wheelman Bicycle Club, serving as chairs of various committees and holding various offices, up to and including president. During this time, we took over management of the GWBR, a three day cycling event. So, I got a lot of experience in event management.

  When my husband and I moved to the West Valley in 2001, we decided it would be fun to put on a running event. There weren’t too many in the area and Calabasas is a beautiful city and a great location. Around the same time, we had also decided to start a charity to help families with members battling cancer and the two ideas fed on each other. Both were focused on the local community and we believed if we considered all the various stakeholders, we could really have a nice event.

  We worked with the City, the various homeowners’ associations Calabasas, the chamber of Commerce and the families we were supporting to develop ideas that would make it a great event for all of them. We’re also athletic and have raced in many runs, cycling events and triathlons over the years, so we had a good idea of what the athletes would be looking for in an event.

  Our first few years were really experimental, as we tried lots of different things to determine what kind of event we wanted to be. We fairly quickly settled on being an event for the whole community, where they could bring their family and enjoy the day in a beautiful setting, as opposed to a hyper–competitive race where people show up, race and leave. The one constant though has been to include the families we help and make the runs available to them as a fundraiser. It’s important to work with our families as partners in helping them, so we pretty much insist they do their own fundraising and we match what they raise on top of the base amount we provide.

  During the last few years, the "green" concept has been so prevalent that there was a demand in our community to make events more socially responsible. An event like ours can generate a lot of interest as well as a lot of waste and trash! By opening up our volunteer activities to environmentally–conscious groups and just being aware of other local groups, we’ve been able to add many green facets to the race; our shirts are made from recycled material, and a local resident volunteered to go through the trash and make sure all recyclable materials are properly segregated and handled. This year we’re adding a program to give our runners a discount if they bring a pair of running shoes to donate to the Share our Soles/Give Running group that provide these running shoes to underprivileged children from inner–city Los Angeles to Mexico to the Dominican Republic to Sudan, Uganda, Liberia, and Kenya in Africa.

  So give us a look and come out and run the Calabasas Classic 5k 10k Runs, Sunday, November 14, 2010! www.calabasasclassic.com

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• February: Arthur Webb, Race Director

  Santa Rosa Marathon

  Santa Rosa’s First Marathon...

  I am a 68-year-old ultra distance runner and marathon race director. During the last 32 years I have logged more than 150,000 training and racing miles. I have completed the marathon distance hundreds of times and have finished numerous 50 and 100 mile races. Last July, I completed the toughest footrace on the planet, the 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon, for the twelfth consecutive time. Colorful stories and articles about my struggle and success in Badwater races may be found at www.CommitAndFinish.com.

  Tell us about the Santa Rosa Marathon:

  Santa Rosa, CA (my home town) has never had a marathon so I decided last year to stage an inaugural event. The goal was to promote a fun-filled, festive and quality community half and full marathon that would welcome walkers and runners of all abilities and loop the scenic Santa Rosa Creeks hard packed and paved pathway (no motorized vehicles) with its beautiful spanning trestle bridges, vineyards, horse ranches and wildlife filled ponds.

  With only an idea, in the worst of economic times (there was no money, permits, sponsors, website, runners, course, etc.) and with the help of Marketing Director, Orhan Sarabi, we were able to fill all our limited running spots and produced a successful race. Each runner received an Adidas wicking technical T-shirt, a finisher medallion and an embroidered runners hat. And we were able to make a generous donation to our charities. Although I have never worked so hard in my life (made Badwater look like a walk in the park), the positive feedback made the effort worthwhile and we are now offering the second annual Santa Rosa Marathon on August 29, 2010.

  For more information visit www.thesantarosamarathon.com

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• January:Paul Gardner, Founder

  Dog Run Dog 10K/5K Races for Dogs and People

  How did you get started?

  I started building events a number of years ago in the music industry but crossed over to running in 2005. I love to run. I find there is nothing that gets my heart pumping and blood moving faster than running and anyone can run, anytime, anywhere. No court needed. No special equipment required, although I suggest investing in a great pair of running shoes, it does make a difference.

  Children run. As a young person I couldn't understand when I was told not to run. Are you kidding? Parents want their kids to settle down for the night and go to sleep, well, let them run…ALL DAY LONG. Can I run dad? Heck yah! Why don't you run to San Diego and back. I'll time you. Ready, Set, Go! And pick me up a paper.

  Everybody runs. Elephants run, horses run, chipmunks, even birds and fish have their own version. Curious enough, when a fish takes off, fisherman say the fish is running. If you follow a good program, one like Active's Training program, and learn to run fluidly and take care of your muscles and bones, you'll be running for a long time.

  Running events have proliferated worldwide, through the ages, in all sorts of venues. Up hills, across the desert, through the streets, you name it and someone is running it. The marathon is the original Olympic event.

  strong>What is Dog Run Dog?

  We're a young company with a long-term vision that includes establishing Dog Run Dog races on the national and international levels. Dog Running, the generic term for Canicross, is quickly becoming a definitive recreational and competitive sport for dogs and people. It requires very little training making it easy for anyone to start.

  Dogs love to run and people love to run with their dogs and so the concept of Dog Run Dog was born. I was riding my bike in not the best of moods when I envisioned several thousand dogs running with their partners, each of the dogs with a race bib on. It made me laugh and so that afternoon I set about looking for a 5K loop. Several hours later I had the course laid out. Five years later we now have races growing around the globe.

  One of the major concerns in coordinating running events with dogs is their cooling system. Dogs only release heat from between their toes and through breath (panting) so it's important to keep an eye on the temperatures and monitor them for signs of overheating. We're working on developing training specific programs for people who run with their dogs.

  As the Dog Run Dog circuit evolves I think we'll find more and more people becoming Dog Runners. Dogs are everywhere. Keep an eye out and pass the woof. We at Dog Run Dog cannot think of a better way to keep active than with one of your greatest companions.

  And remember, when you're being chased by the bear, you only have to run faster than the slowest runner. Just keep up with your dog and you'll do fine.

  For more information visit www.DogRunDog.com or email info@dogrundog.com about establishing a race in your area.

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Select month to view:

• January 2012
  Jack Caress
  Pacific Sports
  
• December 2011
  Mary Anderson
  Anderson Race Management
  
• November 2011
  Mike & Maureen Meldrum
  Volunteer Friends for the Cure®
  
• October 2011
  Marty Epstein
  New Jersey Gran Fondo
  
• September 2011
  Robert Espinoza
  Founder, Fleet Feet Sports Savannah
  
• August 2011
  Dan Clark
  Founder, Gladiator Rock'nRun™
  
• July 2011
  Aaron Del Mar
  Executive Race Director
  
• June 2011
  Dori Ingalls
  Event Organizer
  
• May 2011
  David Penrose
  Co-Race Director
  
• April 2011
  Jeff Maher
  Event Director
  
• March 2011
  Les Smith
  Event Director
  
• January 2011
  Jeff Cole
  Race Director
  
• November 2010
  Mike Barber
  Event Director
  
• October 2010
  Melanie E. Johnson
  Executive Director
  
• September 2010
  Michael Hogue
  MPH Productions
  
• August 2010
  Steven Taylor,Tour Director
  Bike New York
  
• July 2010
  Patrick Downing,Event Director
  Santa Clarita Marathon
  
• June 2010
  Lonnie Sommers,Event Director
  Race for Fetal Hope
  
• May 2010
  Bill Driskill,Race Director
  Total Body Fitness
  
• April 2010
  Amaury Da Costa, Director
  Excel Events & Productions
  
• March 2010
  Julie Talbert, Co–Founder/Race Director
  Calabasas Classic 5K 10K Runs
  
• February 2010
  Arthur Webb, Race Director
  Santa Rosa Marathon
  
• January 2010
  Paul Gardner, Founder
  Running with the dogs...