North Mitten, 5K, 10K, ½ Marathon, Crystal Mountain, Sunday, May 28, 2017

Race director, Janice Davidson, ably assisted by Brian Lawson, welcomed over 400 runners to the fourth annual North Mitten, 5K, 10K, ½ Marathon, at Crystal Mountain, Sunday, May 28, 2017, along a beautiful wooded route. Every runner received a bright purple wicking tee shirt, a wood sculpture finishing award and a free pass to the Micros on Mountain Top. Age group winners won a metal drinking bottle.

 

It’s amazing how we meet so many “winners” at the races. Today, we met our “winner” before the race started. Jean Mahoney, 53, of Crystal Mountain, is a personal trainer, teaching cancer patients how to confront their illness. She is a breast cancer survivor. Her previous 10K was days before her own radical mastectomy, 9 years ago. She teaches classes regarding lowering the risks of cancer through exercise. She loves running. You can learn more at her website, thejourneyprogramtc.com. Jean shares the following thought for folks going through cancer; “During treatment, it is hard to imagine good health after the disease. It is very scary. Meeting exercise goals brings great joy and life celebration which helps to beat cancer.”

 

The “winners” keep coming. Jordan Mozdzen, 29, ran with his wife, Alexandra, 28, of Houghton Lake. Alexandra runs because she has a family history of cancer, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Amy Krzyzanowski, 48, from Plymouth has completed 45 marathons. Amy is a breast cancer survivor. The cancer was caused, in part, by stress. Amy won the downstate Race for the Cure, a race benefiting cancer cures. Amy says; “Never give up. Always move forward. Don’t look back.” Impactful words to live by from someone who knows. Kim Poma, 45, from Manistee, has completed 5 marathons. Kim has a serious family history she is attempting to beat by running. Kim lost two grandmothers from cancer and her sister suffered a brain tumor. Her dad died at 63 and two grandparents died before age 65. Her family has terrible longevity. But Kim is fighting the good battle with exercise. John Swanson, 64, of Quincy, MI, has completed 75 marathons including a 3:25 PR and he is a finisher of the 50 States Marathon. I ran the last two miles with John and I learned he has heart disease and stroke in his family. John’s wife, Donna, 65, is also a 50 states finisher. She has completed “only” 94 marathons. The Swanson’s relative, Mike Webster, 57, of Northville, finished 78 marathons. He started running after a horrific motorcycle accident that left him with a severe compound fracture in his leg and a broken wrist. Mike thanks God he was wearing a helmet during the accident which probably saved his life. After 5 major surgeries and lots of rehabilitation, Mike began running as additional therapy. 78 marathons later, here he is at the North Mitten Races. Mike shares the following with us; “The harder you work in therapy, the better you recover.” Mike is proof of his words. Mike is a “winner” today.

 

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We met a happy family all of whom took age group prizes. Kent Desjardins, 58, of Gross Ile, runs for fitness. His wife, Victoria, 59, is running on a replaced hip, “with no pain”, she adds. Victoria also does yoga and rides a mountain bike. Their daughter, Erica, is a student at UM, GO BLUE, studying Environmental Science. Monica Zaifl, 38, of South Lyon, walked with her daughter, Clair, age 7. Oh by the way, Monica is pregnant, and due in August. Monica shares the following; “Pregnant women should stay healthy and active. It’s better for the delivery and post-baby recovery.” Mike Wentz, 62, of St Louis, MI, runs to relieve stress caused by a divorce. He stopped smoking, lost 40#, lowered his cholesterol and other blood measurements. Mike shares the following; “Get out and run. Running cures all ills.” And your author would be remiss if he did not tell you about his conversation with Duane Amato, 66, of Suttons Bay and his son Nick. Nick was wearing his maize and blue shirt from the University of Michigan Triathlon Team of which Nick is a proud member. Nick is studying Public Health and Business at UM. Did I say “GO BLUE”, Nick? Something special, Crystal Mt employees, Kelsey Jaszez and Greg Wilcox provided sore finishers with free massages. Felt great!

 

Race Director, Janice Davidson, encourages you to join her “winners” at next year’s North Mitten Races on the beautiful Crystal Mountain course. You’ll feel like a “winner”. But remember to ask your doctor before starting an exercise program.

 

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Mickey Fivenson, 75, of TC, is a stroke survivor. Mickey’s doctor credits running to his survival. He is the former director of the National Cherry Festival Races. Mickey founded the Cherry Festival Golden Mile and Wheelchair Races. He completed over 60 marathons and holds a marathon world record with sons, Zack and Adam. He has trained 150,000+ miles in 48 years of running. He took first place in his age group.  If you’d like tips on running, on marathons, if you have a story to share how running has impacted your life, or if you would like coverage of your race, contact Mickey at mickey@telecomclassifiedads.com   .

Tails to Trails 5K. Vasa Trailhead, Traverse City, May 20, 2017

Kate Lewis, Race director, listened to the warm sound of 600 feet pounding the Vasa 5K loop as 100 excited canines and their human masters started the Tails to Trails Race on the 5K Vasa loop, benefiting TART Trails. Organized by TART benefactors, the race ran along wild, beautiful, primitive settings, thick trees, and crystal clear streams.

 

 

Sponsored by the Simonton-Hanosek-Mangum Team of Merrill Lynch, Bay Area Pet Hospital, Northwood Animal Hospital, Great Lakes Pet Memorial & Crematory, Woofers on the Run and Pets Naturally, who recently purchased The D.O.G. Bakery, owner Kathy Hyland provided a doggie bag (This one was a real doggie bag) filled with lots of canine treats and special coupons, and many dog biscuits as well as a tasty fruit tree for human runners, along with Bay Area Pet hospital who provided free vet advise as well as dog biscuits, Frisbees and water bowls for thirsty dogs. I spoke with two of the Bay Area Pet Hospital Vets, Karen Reabe and Kenny Rogers whose dogs ran the race with them. Gabe, a 9 year old lab ran with Kenny. Gabe also pulls Kenny on skis in a sport called, “skijoring”. Look it up on the web. Yes, it is a real sport. As long as you were careful not to mix up the human cookies with the doggie cookies, you were fine, although we were told the dog cookies were “fit for us humans”.

 

 

Let’s get right to our race “winners” and we have two “winners”. Two rescued dogs, Sydney, an 8 year old Shepard/Huskie/lab mix was found wandering in the upper peninsula woods and Juneau, an 8 year old Australian Kelpie/Husky mix who needed reconstructive surgery on her leg. Both dogs ran with their humans, Tom Maynard, 29, and his wife, Jaclyn Mayler, 30, of Traverse City.  It was Juneau’s first 5K. No, they weren’t the fastest dogs, but they were my “winners” because of their unique history. Here’s a wish for many happy trails and tails to Sydney and Juneau. And thanks to their humans, Tom and Jaclyn.

 

 

Lexi, 2, ran with her human Pat Rumpler, 69. Pat says running is good for the dog and good for the human. Pat’s son went to the University of Michigan, which is the reason for the bright maize and Blue shirt, GO BLUE! On the other side of the coin, Gemma Guilland, 32, wore her MSU colors. It was the first time Gemma had raced with her dog. Rick Simonton, 58, and his wife Denna, walked the event without a dog. They are thinking about getting one and thought the event might help them decide on a breed. Since the race, they have decided a lab is the dog for them. Rick, who is a sponsor and a board member,  lost 25 pounds as he trains to climb Mt. St. Helen in July. May, the dog, brought  Pam Darling, Development Director at TART Trails.  Pam served as the sweeper for the race. She followed behind the last place dog to make certain all dogs and humans arrived safely at the finish.

 

 

Many runners/walkers enjoyed the event with their favorite human. Sophie, 12 walked with her humans Jim Sommerville, 66, and Denise Bickle. Ella, 12 was accompanied by her human, Tom Stone, 66, Bosco, 2 ½ brought owner Shelly Ehrenburger, sister of my Central High School classmate, Bob Ehrenberger. Darwin, 2 ½, brought Carl Taphouse.  Maddie, age 3, was accompanied by owners Chuck (66) and Julie (63) Percy. Perhaps one of the more unusual combos was Loki, a huge 7 year old Leonberger, who brought humans Jerry, 68, and Mary Frank, age 64. It seemed strange to see such a large dog, who was very friendly. Lodi eats 6 cups of dry dog food daily and walks the humans 3 miles every day! Blu, a labradoodle, age 5, brought owners, Scott, 59, and Michelle Kitts, age 49. Tarria,, 6 months, brought human, John Keenan, 64. John has enjoyed running ever since Junior High. Reggie, 11, brought owner Ira Kreft., 59. Reggie pulled a fast one on Ira. Reggie was more interested in the treats and the trees rather than running the 5K. So Reggie and Ira waited for us at the finish.

 

 

Race director Kate Lewis, welcomes all dogs and their humans to attend next year’s Tails to Trails 5K. At most races, one is fortunate to run with one or two dogs. So humans, if you are really nice to your pooch, maybe you will be brought to this wonderful event. Remember to ask your doctor and your vet before starting an exercise program.

 

 

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Zoe, a 13 year old Bouvier, and Rebel, a 7 year old Lhasa Apsa, brought human author, Mickey Fivenson, 75, to the race. Zoe and Rebel run with Mickey 3-5 miles every day. Mickey has run more than 148,000 miles in 48 years of running including 60+ marathons. If you have questions about running or want Mickey to cover your race, please contact the editor.

 

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Mesick Mushroom Festival 5K and 2K fun Run. 5-13-17

Rhonda Workman and her crew of happy volunteers, welcomed 126  runners and walkers to lovely Northern Exposure Campgrounds, near Mesick, along the backwaters of the Manistee River behind Hodenpyle Dam. All proceeds benefited the Mesick High School Track Team. Door prizes were randomly presented to many participants compliments of generous Mesick area businesses. Prizes were awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each age group. To see your results or find out how your friend did go on-line. We raced along beautiful, primitive trails surrounding the campground. Often the trail was only two feet wide with thick stands of trees on both sides and overhead. Runners felt as if they were in a tree-lined tunnel.

My “winners” were not the fastest participants but their accomplishment is worthy of a “win”. Walkers Ann Culp, 47, from Copemish, and her friend, Nicole Pitman, 47, of Garden City, are my “winners” because they are big “losers”. Ann lost 80 pounds, while Nicole lost, get this, 220 POUNDS! In fact, Nicole is my champion loser of all time. I have talked to other losers but no one has lost 220 pounds. Both Ann and Nicole had bariatric surgery. Many who have had the procedure eventually put weight back on, but both of these ladies are careful of their food intake and both exercise regularly. Congratulations to my “winners” Ann and Nicole. We met another “winner”, Jennifer Smith lost 80 pounds for over a year by eating healthy and running. Jennifer is a true inspiration. What these three ladies have accomplished is an example to us all.

Ken Vanderberg, 75, from downstate, had genetically high blood pressure as a youth. Today the blood pressure is normal. Ken has been running for 34 years. He has completed more than 50 marathons and one 100 mile ultra-marathon, the Rocky Raccoon in Texas. Ken’s wife Barb, 74, has been running 30 years. They run together as a family. They run marathons together. Running has kept them close. Ken beat me and took second place in my age group. Next year I will catch you, Ken. Erica Mail, 38, from Cadillac, ran with her son, Eli, age 10. They are starting to run with their six month Great Dane puppy. Erica ran track and cross country for Hope College. She recently tore her Achilles Tendon playing basketball. This was her first 5K after returning from surgery.  Jennifer Sprinkle, 35, from Wellston, had never run races before she had her daughter. When her daughter was one, Jennifer, walked her first race. In 2015, she took a 5K training course at the Cadillac YMCA and fell in love with running. In 2016, she set a goal of one 5K each month. She completed 20 races! Jennifer says; “What I love most is the friendliness and support of the running community.” I wish many happy races for Jennifer. Deb Cronin, 59, of Traverse City, just loves running. She says she “Just can’t stop now”.

Tim Tank, 59, from Mesick, runs with his wife as a family event. Running helps Tim with exercise. Robyn DeYoung, 59, from Howard City, runs to be fit and healthy. Robin lost 25 pounds by running. Her daughter, Becky DeYoung, 36, from Manton, runs to be healthy. Gerald Rohn, 71, of Freeland, has been running 40 years. He is running with two knee replacements with doctor’s approval. Gerald beat me like a drum in my age group. Russ Shavalier, 53, of Ravenna, runs for stress relief.

Now you get to meet the volunteer champions of all volunteers. Julie VanLanen, came all the way from Green Bay, along with husband, Dale to help her sister, Rhonda, conduct this race. Julie and Dale stuffed goody bags, helped with registration, in short, helped with many of the necessary duties to pull off this 5K. Thanks to Julie and Dale. Without your help, we all wouldn’t have the chance to experience this incredible race.

Race director, Rhonda Workman wants you to join her next year in Mesick, on the backwaters of the Manistee River, for this memorable event. You will be glad you made the effort. Remember to ask your doctor for permission before starting an exercise program.

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Mickey Fivenson, 75, of TC, is a stroke survivor. Mickey’s doctor credits running to his survival. He is the former director of the National Cherry Festival Races. Mickey founded the Cherry Festival Golden Mile and Wheelchair Races. He completed over 60 marathons and holds a marathon record with sons, Zack and Adam. He has trained 150,000+ miles in 48 years of running. Today, he took third place in his age group.  If you’d like tips on running, on marathons, if you have a story to share how running has impacted your life, or if you would like coverage of your race, contact Mickey through the editor.

Global 6K for Water, May 6, Medalie Park, Traverse City

I was one of over 27,000 people around the world who walked or ran the Global 6K for Water. Between our participation and corporate sponsors, 31,386 children will now have access to life-giving clean water! I joined other runners and walkers around the world to help bring drinking water to children around the world. The effort felt good. Judging from the smiling faces from other runners, everyone felt good. To personalize the event, we all wore race bibs with the name and photo of a child struggling to obtain clean water, along with our special tee shirt and our event medal.  The name and image on the bib is not just “a” child.  It is the exact child that the participant’s registration fee goes to. Each participant has the opportunity to continue their relationship with that exact child through monthly sponsorship, which allows for back-and-forth communication through letters, photos, drawings, etc.

Chad Chinlund and his crew of volunteers, welcomed area runners to

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beautiful Medalie Park, at Logan’s Landing. The race was held along the Tart Trail adjacent to lovely Boardman Lake. Why did Chad volunteer to direct the event? Chad says the following; “The purpose of the race is to bring awareness to something we here in the United States can easily take for granted…clean water. The lack of access to clean water in developing countries is the reason why nearly 1,000 children die every day (that’s more than AIDS and Malaria combined)! It is also the most preventable cause of death in the world! With Traverse City being surrounded by amazingly clean and clear water, I felt like it was a no-brainer to promote this event as it can be easy to forget what the rest of the world has to deal with in terms of water. While this is the first year that there is a host site here in Traverse City, this is the fourth year. It began in 2014 with about 50 host sites and 1,500 people. The 6K has taken place in other cities around the world.  Chad adds; “My wife, Kate, and I currently sponsor 4 children in this way and have thoroughly enjoyed the relationship with these children over the past 12 years. It’s also been great for our 4 biological children to have a ‘pen-pal’ relationship with kids from all over the world and we hope that it will continue to give them a better perspective on the blessings we have here in the United States. This race is more than just for awareness. The registration fee is the actual cost-per-child of getting a lasting water source to a community. The event has grown by leaps and bounds with this year having over 750 host sites!!!  Another beautiful thing about this event is that almost anyone can do it.  It’s not a typical ‘race’ to the finish line as there will be no timers or computer chips.  This means that you can set whatever pace you feel comfortable with.  You can run it, walk it or even push a stroller.  The lack of clean water leads to so many barriers.  Not only is most of the available water contaminated in these areas, the women and children that have to fetch this water have to walk an average of 6 kilometers (hence the reason for this event to be a 6k) to get it.  This means that many children have to miss school in order to get it and sadly can result in kidnapping and trafficking. World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization that brings more clean water to the developing world than any other non-governmental organization. Located in nearly 100 countries around the world, World Vision is the largest non-governmental provider of clean water in the developing world, providing a new person with clean water every 10 seconds.  They use everything from wells, to rain catchment systems, to solar powered pumps and pipelines to provide communities with long term sources of clean water.  So this is not just a temporary band aid that provides a limited source of bottled water, it provides lasting water that literally changes lives!  After a participant registers, they were sent a t-shirt as well as a race bib that bears the photo of the exact child they are walking/running for!  A finisher medal was provided upon crossing the finish line.”

I met Rob Dickinson and his wife Lindsey with their young daughter, Emerson, at the race. Rob told me why his family participates in this event:  ”I love to run and helping with access to clean water is something small I can do to a make a big difference. Water is life.”  Why does Rob run? He says; “I started running track my senior year in high school. I loved it, but right away got distracted and didn’t get back to running for over ten years. I gained a bunch of weight and wanted to pull myself back into shape. I started walking everywhere while we lived in London. I shed a few lbs. and started running again, running through cemeteries is a huge thing in London (well at least I saw a ton of people all the time), peaceful and calming runs every time. Got back to the states and ran my first 5k, the TC Zombie Run (sensing a slight theme here), back when they gave the survivors a head start. Quickly ran a 10k after that then a half marathon, then I found myself running the Bayshore Marathon, inspired by the runners in Boston that didn’t let the worst of humanity deter them. I run now for many reasons, my health, because others cannot, to be an example to my daughter, and to keep pushing myself. In fact my latest goal is coming to an end, I decided last year that I should run a half marathon every month for a year, April 22 will be the last run for to reach that goal, a 25k trail run here in TC. I spent 10+ years on the sidelines knowing I’d love to participate in races just like this one, so anytime a worthy cause comes along, I try to be there.  I lost 60 lbs., went from right around 260 to 200 in a little less than 2 yrs. When I started to feel slow and sluggish and not very healthy (that I noticed anyway) I put myself back on track. When I first arrived back in the states I was down 30 or so lbs. and going in the right direction, my new doc said that I should just keep it up, he wasn’t overly worried about any vitals and they continued to improve so we didn’t spend much time on those. I know that I was on my way to having health issues, but nothing serious to report here.”

Lindsey, Rob’s wife, ran the event 37 weeks pregnant with doctor’s approval. She runs 2-3 times every week. Lindsey, says she supports all global clean water events. Bart Den Boer, 65, walked the event. Bart says there is a great need for clean water and this is a simple, cost effective solution. Emily Cherkasove and her daughter Emily were walking to support water initiatives. Grace Canfield, 14, is a future physical therapy student. Her friend Emma Miribelli ran to support the building of wells. Emma says; “Nobody should have to drink infested water.” Chelsea Legget says, ”She was  inspired by her girls to get out and support those in need.” Her daughters Lucy and Hattie led the way. Rielyn, age 6, was carried by dad Dan Reynolds, through the entire 6K! The Reynolds walked to help children get clean water.

Looking for a run/walk with a purpose? Join Chad Chinlund and the Global Run for Water next year. You will feel proud that you helped provide clean water around the world. Remember to talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Mickey Fivenson is the former director of the National Cherry Festival Races. If you’d like tips on running, if you have a story to share how running has impacted your life, or if you would like coverage of your race, contact Mickey AT mickey@telecomclassifiedads.com.

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