Club Roster and Dues

As we get close to placing our 2010 shirt order, we need to make sure our club roster is up to date.

Paid Current Members: Current members are listed here: Andrew Barker, Ashley Bass, Margaret Bently, Kevin Boudreau, Charlotte Burnette, Jeff Burnette, Teddy Cheetah, Matt Collins, Steve Cooper, Tampa Cooper, Dennis Crossen, Sean Epps, Jennifer Epps, Ron Fleming, Michael Forrester, Ursula Forrester, Laura Haynes, Russ Hinesley, Brad Kerr, Jeannie Kerr, Frank Lilley, Liz Lord, Ted Lord, Anthony Lucas, William Lucas, Larry McKeel, Levi Moore, Wayne Painter, Eric Pate, Amber Poole, Lillian Pruden, Billy Pruden, Misty Schmitt, Jon Shingleton, Julie, Stutts, Thomas Thurman, Mary Whitwell, Ralph Willey, Leigh Ann Wingfield, Scott Wingfield.

Need to Pay Members: Here are the current members who need to pay dues. This is not a naughty list! In fact there is a good possibility people on this list have given me payment and we did not check you off yet, others I have not seen in months. When I am given money on a run, it frequently gets stuck in the car and forgotten about. So please check here and post a comment if you have paid. Annual dues are $25 per person ($40 for a couple): Kelly Allen, Clifford Amos, Carolyn Beam, David Beam, Arthur Bennett, Kim Blackwelder, Ingrid Bullard, Ryan Bullard, Abraham Cox, Christiana Cox, Carol Dickens, Gerry Felton, Jeff Hartney, Tracy Hicks, Jason Irvin, Robin johnson, Brian Lankford, David Lavely, Tracy Proctor, Winslow Rogers, Nicole Sykes, Michael Votava, Brad Weisner, Elaine Weisner

New Members: If you are new to the group, and would like to become a member, you can join for a prorated amount of $15.00. This covers you through 2010.

Why Pay: The RMEC is a member of the Road Runner Club of America. As a member of the RMEC you also become a member of the RRCA. The RRCA insures our club, our officers, and our events. Without the RRCA, there would be no organized group runs, Golf Club at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k, Medoc Trail Races, or Rocky Mount Endurance Kids. All of these events are insured, which protects us. An extra cash is used to support group runs, club picnics, and to discount shirt orders. No individual profits from anything the RMEC does.

What do I get? In addition to hanging out with 60 of the coolest people in Rocky Mount, club members get the following:

• Discounted entry to The Golf Club at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k
• Discounted entry to the Medoc Trail Races
• 15% off at Raleigh Running Outfitters
• Substantially discounted RMEC shirts
• Organized and supported group runs
• A super cool/nerdy blog to read

How do I sign up? - Go here http://rmec2010.eventbrite.com/ and give us your information. We will post information about the shirt order next week once we have a finalized quote. The password is "RUN"

Shirt Order: We will collect information on the shirt order next week (size, style, color, etc.) These shirts are only for official RMEC members. So please take a few minutes and join!

Email runrmec@yahoo.com if you have any questions.

RUN RSVP: Saturday 05/29

Not sure who is in town this weekend, but just in case. . . here is your weekly RUN RSVP post! This post is for our normal Saturday morning run, however if anyone is interested in a Monday morning run, please post a comment about that as well.

Run Details:

• Where: Saturday, 6:30 am @ Harris Teeter
• Supported: TBD
• Weather: Forecast
• Routes: 4 Miles; 12 Miles

I know I cannot be there is the morning, so if anyone can provide fluids please post a comment and save your receipt for reimbursement. I only picked two routes, but they are easy to adjust. On the 12 mile route:

• Drop Litchfield - Minus 1 Mile
• Drop Ketchpoint - Minus 1 Mile
• Drop Winstead/Woodlawn - Minus 1 Mile

Happy running!

Open for Registration!

The Golf Club at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k is now open for registration. We are very excited to announce that this year the race proceeds will go to benefit Scouting in Nash and Edgecombe counties.

This year when you sign up to register, you will be able to designate a Pack/Troop to credit you entry towards. Each 5k and 10k entry gives them a point. Each Fun Run entry gives them a half-point. The Pack/Troops with the most points will recieve a cash contribution directly to their Unit. Don't forget club members can use the code RMECMEMBER to save on their entry fee.

This is just a portion of the money that will be donated. For complete details, visit our new Beneficiary Page on the race website. Please help spread the word!

Key Links:

• Main Site
• Registration
• Beneficiary
  
  
  

Safety Tips of the Day

Eye Contact: As a runner, don't EVER cross in front of a vehicle at an intersection unless you have made eye contact with the driver. This is especially true when the driver is making a right turn on red. They are often looking to the left for the moment they can step on the gas and dart out in to traffic. They DON'T LOOK RIGHT for pedestrians. Be safe when you are running.

Be Seen: Of course, if it is dark, dawn, or dusk, be visible. Where a jog-a-lite, a Firefly, and bright clothing.

Be Saved: Always take some form of ID with you when you run. I highly recommend a Road-ID. These can be worn on your shoes, wrist, or ankle.

For a full list of safety tips, check out his old blog post.

Shirt Post #2

Okay. . . don't kill me. This became a four horse race, but then a fifth horse known as High Visibility Green jump on the track too. To simply things (or make things more confusing) I closed the old poll, and now just went with the five options that had enough interest. There is a new poll to the top right. You can enlarge the images below by clicking on them.

In short. . . VOTE AGAIN.

This Post does not allow comments. Keep posting in the one below to keep them consolidated.

2010 RMEC Shirt Order

It it time for a new RMEC shirt order. In our last shirt order we tried to get some racing tank-tops. Some people loved them, and others did not. We have lots of new members, and some who are about to join. I would still like to get something for us so we all look like a "team" when we are at races, but realize that race day is when you need to feel most comfortable, so you should wear what feels good.

TECHNICAL RUNNING SHIRTS:

That being said, I plan to order Zorrel Wicking Tees for the club. may regret asking for opinions on shirt color. . . but I am a sucker for punishment! To keep it simple, I plan to order two different colors only. The shirt options below have lots of choices in colors. It is not possible for everyone to get their own personal favorite.

• UNISEX: Z1050 Boston
• WOMEN: IL108 Sedona

To keep the silk screening process simple, I would like for us to stay with a light color fabric. This is also good for running on hot days. I added a poll to the site for people to vote on their color preference. Please vote ASAP. For RMEC members, the cost is $5.00 per shirt. Women, can order a standard unisex shirt, or the women's cut if you prefer that style (pink is only available in the women's style).

There is a potential third option that we could order, but we all shirts would have to be in this style is a high visibility technical shirt. These would be good for keeping us safe, and helping us stand out at event. If everyone would like this style, I will order these instead.

FASHION TEES (NON TECHNICAL):
In addition to the technical shirts, we will order some "fashion tees" as well in grey. These are described as "softer than silk tees". These would not be used for exercise, but could be used as just a casual tee shirt.

• Men Softer than silk Fashion Tee
• Women's Softer than Silk Fashion Tee

Once we finalize the two color options, we will have an "order post" later this week.

Garmin 405 Deal

This is a GREAT deal on the Garmin 405 watch. Not sure how long it will last.

• Step 1: Go Here
• Step 2: Add to Cart
• Step 3: Enter the Coupon Code 0501 to take an extra 10% off
• Step 4: Pay for the watch
• Step 5: Fill out the $50 Garmin rebate form

Total price with FREE shipping $192.95 after rebate. You cant beat this price!

This is the smaller style Garmin with a heart rate monitor and the touch bezel. The Forerunner 405 CX is the evolution of GPS-enabled training. This sleek sport watch tracks your distance, pace and heart rate, then wirelessly sends the data to your PC for later analysis. The 405CX features heart rate-based calorie computation and comes with a second wrist band option suitable for smaller wrists.

RUN RSVP: Saturday, May 22

After a weekend of racing for the RMEC, it looks like things will slow down a bit tomorrow. Hopefully this will draw out a big crowd for the Saturday run. The weather looks fantastic. It won't be too long before it the summer heat is here. Take advantage of weekends like this one and get in a nice long run.

Run Details:

• Where: Saturday, 6:30 am @ Harris Teeter
• Supported: Yes At the Tracks
• Weather: Forecast (62F @ 7am and 68 @ 10am)
• Routes: 4 Miles; 10 Miles; 14 Miles

I also encourage everyone to check our the Ride for Heroes on Saturday morning at the Dunn Center. This family friendly event for four different ride distances that you can participate in. Kinnie and Eric have been busy organizing this event, and it is shaping up to their best ever. Learn more online.

See you all in the morning. Bring a friend. Happy running!

Bays Mountain Trail Race

Last year several from the RMEC had a great time at the Bays Mountain Trail Race. Frank and others are planning to go back again this year. This could be a really fun "road trip!"

Frank's sister-in-law has again agreed to "host" as many folks as she can get in her house (7 including couches and way more if we bring sleeping bags and pads!). The plan is to leave on Friday for Tennessee, run on Saturday, and then drive back Sunday. It will be a quick and low-cost trip. Let Frank know if you are interested, or post a comment here.

30% off at FootLocker

As always, we strong encourage the RMEC to support your local running store, but if you are an online shopper and know what you want, here is a deal for you:

FootLocker is offering 30% off coupon for use both in-store use with printable coupon or online purchase with code EMFLT594. The coupon expire May 24, 2010.

Enjoy!

Sponsors Requested

With over 120 Facebook fans, and 91,650 blog page hits, we knew the Rocky Mount Endurance Club site is visited by many more people then just our 60 "official members" That is great, so don't think we are trying to "virtually" kick anyone out. Our goal has always been to be a friendly an open forum for local runners to keep out with running and racing in Rocky Mount.

So, with all of that said. . . we know people are visiting our site that might operate a business, or be in a position to discuss sponsorship with their employer. I am talking to everyone right now. The Golf Club at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k, and the Medoc Trail Races are both looking for 2010 sponsors. This does not mean we simply want a cash hand out in exchange for us slapping your logo on a shirt (although we will do that!).

We look at our sponsorship packages as an exchange for brand advertising, and feel like we provide a lot of exposure for the contribution amounts we are requesting. Both websites have details on their sponsorship package options.

Depending on your level, you can be featured on the website, race banners, mile markers, emails, shirts, race numbers and more. Some of these things give you exposure the day of the race (signs for example), others provide extended exposure of your brand (website and race shirts).

So please take a few minutes to review the sponsor packages online. Both races are 100% not-for-profit, so no individual from the RMEC makes any money from this. We also make certain that our race beneficiaries are local.

Golf Course at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k Sponsor Packages
Medoc Trail Races Sponsor Packages

To have a package emailed to you, contact us at runrmec@yahoo.com

Fun Run Results and more!

What a GREAT weekend for the RMEC. From the Fun Run for Charities to the picnic at the Proctor's home, we had a really nice weekend. This is one of those times when so many people race that I can't possibly write up details about everyone. It is honestly a challenge just to make sure I did not miss anyone (and I might have, so speak up).

The RMEC members and their families took home 15 awards this weekend, and multiple PRs! This even includes some overall awards. Wow! Great job everyone. Here are a few quick highlights. Ashley defended his title and again won the 5k. His daughter was the first female finisher too. Henry completed his first official 5k at age seven. Mackenzie ran a 27:57 at age 9! Frank, Ursula, and Jon all found the podium for the first time! Team Lord both placed in their age group. I could say more, but it would take me all day. . . great job EVERYONE!

Fun Run for Charities 5k:

• 17:27 - Ashley Bass (1st OV)
• 21:01 - Emily Bass 21:01 (1st OV)
• 28:42 - Jeanette Batchelor (8th AG, PR)
• 27:05 - Arthur Bennett (8th AG)
• 33:42 - Ingrid Bullard (16th AG)
• 38:23 - Caroline Forrester (12th AG)
• 32:54 - Henry Forrester (6th AG PR)
• 32:58 - Michael Forrester (10th AG)
• 23:33 - Jason Irvin (2nd AG)
• 23:37 - Bob Land (3rd AG)
• 28:29 - Frank Lilley (3rd AG)
• 27:57 - Mackenzie Proctor (4th AG, PR)
• 27:58 - Tracy Proctor (6th AG)
• 25:12 - Tom Thurman (2nd AG)

Fun Run for Charities 10k:

• 48:21 - Angela Barnhill (2nd OV)
• 46:03 - Kevin Boudreau (1st AG)
• 1:00:30 - Brent Brondyke (5th AG)
• 1:03:55 - Debi Brondyke (4th AG)
• 48:23 - Gerry Felton (2nd AG)
• 53:52 - Ursula Forrester (2nd AG, PR)
• 1:15:45 - Jeannie Kerr (7th, PR)
• 50:48 - Elizabeth Lord (1st AG)
• 48:14 - Ted Lord (2nd AG, PR)
• 59:46 - Amber Poole (4th AG, PR)
• 55:47 - John Shingleton (3rd AG, PR)
• 54:52 - Mary Whitwell (1st AG)

Also need to acknowledge the work that the RMEC did in helping to put on the Fun Run for Charities. Ryan Bullard was on the race committee and was lead on the race events. Tracy P, helped Ryan to created the new race courses. In addition, Ron, Steve, Jeff, Winslow, and others that I can't think of were out on the course ensuring every one's safety. Thanks to all of you who took the time to volunteer instead of race.

• Telegram Photos
• Forrester Race Photos
• Picnic Photos

On Sunday, Michael, Ron, Scott, and Brian ran in the Inside Out Sports Classic Half Marathon. This race tripled in size over last year with 703 finishers. It brought out a competitive field as it was a RRCA State Championship, and also part of the 2nd Empire Series. The heat and this hills had little effect on Brian who smoked a 1:28:27 and took 2nd in his age group. Ron also had a great day setting a PR. If you just want a taste of Umstead, I recommend this race. Not as challenging as the marathon, but a tough race never-the-less.

Inside Out Sports Classic Half Marathon

• 1:28:27 - Brian Lankford (2nd AG, PR)
• 1:35:19 - Michael Forrester (9th AG)
• 1:50:50 - Scott Wingfield (25th AG)
• 1:43:34 - Ron Fleming (13th AG, PR)

Finally, we all need to send a BIG THANK YOU to Tracy and Daniel for hosting over 60 people at the RMEC picnic. It was a great evening of fun. Thanks to everyone who came out and brought a dish. . . if only we had at least one green bean casserole! People were already asking about when the next cookout will be. I would like to do one the weekend of the Golf Club at Rocky Mount 5k & 10k, but we could do one in the summer too if people are interested. Let us know if there is interest in the comments!

RMEC Booth Help

We need help with the RMEC booth at tomorrows race. Can you help?

• 6:30 am: Michael (setup)
• 7:00 am: Michael, Brian
• 8:00 am: Brian (5k race)
• 9:00 am: Ted , Michael (I need to leave at 9:30)
• 10:00 am: Frank, Ted
• 11:00 am: Ted, Liz
• 12:00 pm: Frank, Ron
• 12:30 pm: Frank, Ron (clean up)

We just need to have someone at the booth. I really seeing this being a "home base" for the club like it was last year, so I don't foresee any problems. That being said, we do need to make sure the booth is "manned" at all times in the event. I also need some one who can roll up the banners and take down a pop-up tent. Thank you!

Remember, wear RMEC gear tomorrow!

RACE REPORT: Eugene Marathon

Note: John Clark has run several races put on by the RMEC, and other races in the area. John joined the RMEC in 2010. Many of you have not met John yet. We hope to drag him out to the Teeter on Saturday for a long run soon!

Submitted By: John Clark (aka Teddy Cheetah)

My girlfriend, Alexa, and I arrived in Eugene, OR on Wednesday April 28, 2010. The race was not until the following Sunday May 2,010. I wanted to get out there early in order to acclimate myself to the west coast and run a few sections of the course.

The course was advertised as “flat and fast.” After driving it and running the hillier sections, I confirmed this to be true. There was only one “big” hill. It was between miles 8 and 9 and rose about 50 feet over the course of ¾ a mile. I knew my training in Umstead had thoroughly prepared me for this hill.

I ran the last five miles of the course the day we arrived in Eugene. It is mostly on bike paths along the Willamette River. The scenery was beautiful, and I knew I better enjoy it now because I would be barely functioning at this point in the race. I finished the run with a few strides on Hayward Field. I was the only one on the track and it was inspiring running on the same field where so many great runners had run before.

I spent Thursday running the “hilly” part of the course and took Friday off. Saturday, I ran a very easy 2 miles on Pre’s Trail.

I awoke at 4 a.m. the day of the marathon. I was able to stay on Eastern Standard Time, so this didn’t feel too early. I went for a short walk and had a light breakfast and started getting ready for the race. Alexa and I walked over to the start around 6:30. We got there 15 minutes before the race. I did a 5 minute warm-up jog, took some pictures, and went to the bathroom for the final time.

The race started at 7:00 a.m. Around the half mile mark, I realized I had had too much water before the race and needed to go to the bathroom. I ran the first two miles too fast but was able to get on pace the next two miles. At the end of mile 5, I spotted numerous porta-potties and took this opportunity to take a 30s bathroom break. I ran the fifth mile in 7:37, 22 seconds slow. Whether it was the need to make up time or the water weight I shed, I ran the 6th mile way too fast in 6:48.

From there on, I was able to keep my pace under control and ran between 7:10 and 7:16 for the next few miles. Little did I know that possible disaster was lurking around the bend around mile 10.

Alexa was positioned at the mile 10 aid station to give me my pack of GUs for the last part of the race. I saw her and made a cut over to her and got the GUs with no problem. She has become a master at her support crew duties. However, about 50 meters down the road, I heard what I thought was her yelling my name. Alexa doesn’t normally yell as I pass, so this was out of the ordinary. I assumed it was someone else that sounded like her and decided to keep going. Then I heard it again. I knew it was her this time. I briefly thought about ignoring her, as I was in the zone, however, I knew it must be important. I slowed and turned and saw her running towards me and yelling, “chip!” I looked down and discovered my plastic ties had broken and my timing chip had fallen off my shoe. Luckily, it happened right where Alexa was and she had the presence of mind to know what it was and get it to me before I got any farther down the road. I ran back the 50 meters and she handed me the chip and I continued running toward mile 11. Disaster averted.

I had to hold the chip in my hand for the remainder of the race. I didn’t have time to attach it to my shoe and worry about it coming off again. I still had four timing mats to go over before the finish. Therefore, I had to slow down and bend down at each of these mats in order for my chip to register.

I went through the half in 1:33:38 which was a little faster than I intended. I wanted to run the second half faster than the first as 98% of the fastest ever marathons have been run in this matter. However, now I just needed to keep from blowing up over the last few miles as I have in my two previous marathons.

I was able to keep pace until mile 22, when I ran 7:20. I knew I was a little ahead of the pace I need, but I didn’t have too much time to spare. I calculated I could run 7:20s from there on and still make my time. The next two miles were tough, but I managed to hold a 7:20 pace. It was during the 24th mile that I started having some very negative thoughts. This was where I fell apart during my last marathon. Luckily, I was better prepared mentally to handle it this time. I recalled a quote by Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you are probably right.” At that point, I got rid of all the negative thoughts I was having and was able to get back on pace.

I knew with a half mile to go that I was going to make my time and qualify for Boston. The race finished on Hayward Field. This was very exciting, as the track is so rich with history. When I entered the stadium, the stands were still pretty full. I had two more timing mats to go over. Each time I had to slow and bend down to make sure my chip registered. This was all I could think of and I was unable to fully enjoy running before all the cheering fans. I finished in 3:10:20 and qualified for the 2011 Boston Marathon by 39 seconds.

Fun Run & RMEC Picnic

This coming Saturday is a big day for Rocky Mount and the RMEC. I really want to try to fire up our running club to get excited about all that is going on. To kick things off, on Saturday morning Reach Out Rocky Mount will host the 2nd annual Fun Run for Charities. The event has a 5k, 10k, 1-mile, and Kid's Dash option, so your entire family can get involved. If you have not already done so. . . sign up TODAY! As a race director, I can tell you that late registrations can add lots of challenges and potential cost. So take five minutes and sign up right now! Here are some things to think about regarding the race:

New Course: Both the 5k and 10k have new race courses that take advantage of the Battle Park trails. Our own Ryan Bullard helped to create these new scenic routes. These are trails that many from the RMEC could run with their eyes closed, so come out and have fun in a race!

The RMEC: I would encourage all of you to wear a RMEC shirt if you have one. Even if you have a favorite shirt to race in, consider putting a RMEC shirt over it before and after the race. We are the running club for Rocky Mount. We want to be seen, be friendly, and be encouraging to others during the event. The RMEC has always been an inclusive organization that welcomes everyone regardless of background or ability. Make sure people feel welcome, and encourage them to check out our website and also our booth at the event.

The RMEK and 501(c)(3)s: The Rocky Mount Endurance Kids program has taken a break, but will come back. This program was created by Tracy Proctor, and lead by Tracy, Misty, and Elaine. We still use the RMEK name to help create some fun run options for kids, but we fully expect to bring back the training program. The RMEK is one of the participating charities in the Fun Run. This means that any contribution that is made above the standard race entry goes directly to the RMEK program, and is eligible for an additional match. Our club has never solicited money outside of dues or race sponsorships. That is just not how we operate. I would however ask you all to consider giving something extra to the RMEK when you register. If not the RMEK, pick another one of the 55 participating organizations to give something to. Every dollar makes a difference!

The RMEC Booth: As a participating organization, the RMEC is required to have a booth at the race. Like last year we will have race banners, information about the club, and information about our races. We encourage the club to hang out at the booth, but not block others from coming to learn about the RMEC. This will kind of be our "home-base" on race day. We need to have the booth manned at all times. I need setting up, covering the booth during the actual races, and also help after the races, because Caroline has her dance recital after the race. If you can help, please post a comment. I also need a pop-up tent and bungee cords!

The RMEC Picnic: We want to celebrate the clubs performance by having a picnic Saturday afternoon. The Proctors will host the club for a cookout at their house beginning at 5:00 pm. Families and welcome. If you are a charter member of the club, or someone who just joined yesterday, please come! The club will buy the grilled items and non-alcoholic beverages. All we ask if that you bring a side item. Please post what you will bring, so we do not end up with seven green-bean casseroles (this would not make Ursula very happy). If you have some portable chairs, I suggest bringing those too.

Lets get excited about this weekend everyone! This is a chance to have fun and showcase the Rocky Mount Endurance Club. Get out there and have a GREAT time!

Big Weekend of Race Results!

Last weekend has a BIG weekend of racing for the RMEC and also other's in Rocky Mount. I normally try to have a detailed write up for each race, but there was simply too much going on last weekend to cover it all. I am sure I missed someone below, so speak up if I forgot you!

* White Lake Half #2 - The longest race of the weekend was the White Lake Half Ironman. This race has become a favorite of the RMEC because of the crystal clear waters of the lake. On Saturday however the waters were rough, and a current slowed down everyone. Then later in the day the 90+ temperatures put a beating on the running leg. Even with less then perfect conditions, we still had some great performances:

Jeff Miller placed 60th among all men finishing in 5:42:12. His strong performance was anchored by a 1:53 half marathon time. Shortly behind Jeff came Dave Lavely with a 5:55:57. Dave showed no sings of weakness from his marathon just six days prior when he ran a 1:57 half to complete his race. Winslow Rogers is preparing for his first Ironman, so White Lake was a nice test to see where he stands. His 6:31:53 is an impressive performance that shows his training is paying off. Cliff Amos also did well with a 6:34:20. His time was off of his 2009 performance, but considering the heat and rough water it was equal to the effort. Results

* White Lake Half Relay - The RMEC assembled a women's relay team to compete on Saturday as well. Yvonne kicked things off with a 41:34 swim performance. This was 6th best among the women's team. Next Kinnie Pruden laid down the hammer with a 2:34 bike time. This was easily first among women. In fact out of 45 total relay team, on three men had a faster time than Kinnie. Tracy Proctor had the anchor leg in hottest part of the day where she still managed a 1:54:28 half marathon. This was third among women relayers. Even more impressive. . . the RMEC team of three women could have placed second among the male teams, and 3rd in the mixed teams. Great job ladies! Results

* White Lake Sprint #2 - After a hot day on Saturday, the Sprint race had fantastic weather, and it showed in the performances. Abraham Cox has shown that he might be a natural when it comes to triathlons. In his first major tri, he finished with a 1:25:24. This time includes a 2-minute penalty for forgetting his number! His time was good enough for first place among Novice Males. . . unfortunately he did not enter as a Novice! Regardless, great debut Abraham!

Ryan Bullard improved on his 2008 White Lake time when he finished in 1:31:21. On the heels of Ryan came Jordan Carter with a 1:33:57. Kinnie finally convinced Billy Pruden to give a triathlon a try, and he did not disappoint. Billy finished in 1:43:38 which was the among Master's Novices. Great job everyone! Results

* Indy Mini Marathon - Every year, Russ Hinesley heads back home and races in the Indianapolis Mini Marathon. This unique race actually finishes on the Indianapolis 500 race track. This year Russ completed the challenge with an impressive 2:15:18, just a couple minutes off of last years time. Unknown to Russ, Sean and Jennifer Epps from Rocky Mount were also there racing, and finished together in 2:39. Results

* Clayton 5k - Tom Thurman is the RMEC expert on 5ks. There are very few 5k races within an hour of Rocky Mount that he has not raced at some point. This past weekend he raced in the Clayton 5k. As part of his corporate team, Tom posted a solid 25:59 time. Well done Tom! Results

* Whirlirun 5k - Wayne Painter (our satellite member from Roanoke Rapids) had a fantastic race in Wilson on Saturday morning. His time of 18:44 earned him second place overall in the event. Jon Shingleton once again posted a new 5k PR when he ran 23:57. I am not sure what is dropping faster, Jon's times or his weight! Amber Poole took first place in her age group by running a 27:15. Always nice to see the RMEC take home some hardware! Results

* Bright Night 5k - On Saturday night, Greenville held the inaugural Bright Night 5k. This twilight race drew over 200 runners. Four RMEC members participated in the race. John Batchelor was just seconds from breaking the 19-minute barrier when he raced a 19:01. This was good enough for 2nd place in his age group. His wife Jeanette Batchelor also raced finishing in 29:50.

Jon Shingleton ran a 26:02 in his second 5k race of the day, and Amber Poole posted a 28:58. It should be noted that there was not a chip mat at the start, so these times are based on gun time, and some of our runners lost as many as 20 seconds. Overall, this new race was a big success, and something I hope the RMEC will continue to support! Results

RUN RSVP: Monday Hill Practice

We will have our second installment of Monday evening hill practice! We should have a perfect evening for a run. I mistakenly had posted tomorrow's date above, but the practice is tonight (May 10) from Tracy's house again. We will begin at 6:30. Even if you are a little late, you can still come join, because we run the same hill over-and-over.

The workout will consist of a short warm up followed by 4-7 hill repeats of about 90 seconds each. We will jog down the hill to recover between each interval. After the hills we will have a short cool down. Bring your own fluids, and don't miss the fun! Please post a comment if you plan to join.

RUN RSVP: Saturday May 8th

Things are starting to warm up, but Saturday still looks like a good morning for a run. Last weekend we had a crowd of about 15 runners show up at the Teeter. It was a great run! Hope to see everyone out this weekend again.

Run Details:

• Where: Saturday, 7:00 am @ Harris Teeter
• Supported: TBD - At the Tracks
• Weather: Forecast (61F @ 7am and 69 @ 9am)
• Routes: 4 Miles; 10 Miles; 14 Miles

It will be warm when we start. The forecast is showing 69F at 7:00 am and 73F by 9:00 am. Please hydrate before you arrive to run. I am not certain if I can run on Saturday, because I have family coming to town. For this reason, I need someone to volunteer to put fluids at the tracks if possible. Please post a comment if you can.

If you are interested, there are three nearby race options on Saturday too:

• Wilson's Wirlirun 5k - 8:00 am at Paul V. Berry Park
• Capital City Classic 10k - 8:30 am at Fayetteville Street Mall in Raleigh
• Bright Night 5k - 7:30 pm at Moe's parking lot in Greenville (note: evening race)

Medoc is Confused!

Okay RMEC, Medoc is beginning to wonder if you heard that the Medoc Trail Races are open for registration? We have had our biggest opening week in the three year history of the race (by far). . . and none of the registrations are from club members!

Both races are doubling the pace of last year's registration, and the 10-miler should sell out in July if not sooner. It goes a long way for the race when we can continue to promote positive progress with our registration totals. Having 25+ club members register really helps to push up the "percent filled" number.

If you plan to run, please take a minute and register at www.medoctrailmarathon.com. Official club members can use the code "RMECMEMBER" to save on their registration. Once you sign up, help spread the word! Don't forget to be creative with your trail name. . . if not, we will pick one for you!

Because of the nature of the finishers surprise this year, we really need to sell out early. Can't say much more than that, but it takes some lead time to get these done.

May 22: Ride for Heroes

I know the RMEC focuses primarily on running, but I wanted to make you all aware of a great opportunity to get out on your bikes for a fun and stress-free ride. Eric and Kinnie have helped to organize the Ride for Heroes on May 22, 2010. The event consists of a 1, 17.5, 33, and 62 mile ride (not race). All races start at the Dunn Center in Rocky Mount.

The event is well supported with aid along the way, and lots of great food and snacks at the finish. Please consider supporting this great new event!

Here are links to the course maps: Metric Century, Half Metric Century, Short Ride

What is on your race calendar?

Been a while sense we have checked in to see what the RMEC is racing. Everyone, please take a few minutes to share your race plans for 2010. We know things change, so don't worry about mentioning a race in your plans, and then not doing it. Your comments might inspire someone else to do the same race!

Race Results from 05/01 and 05/02

It was a productive weekend for the RMEC. First of all, we had a big turnout for the group run at the Harris Teeter. . . of course this blog post is about race results, so I will move on to those. On Saturday, Steve,

Congrats to Steve, Eric, and Jason for completing the White Lake Half Ironman #1 on Saturday. Steve finished in 6:42:36, and Eric finished in 6:57:28. Great debut performances for the half ironman distance guys! The "veteran," Jason had an impressive race finishing in 5:58:41.

Congrats to Dave and Dennis on finishing the Pittsburgh Marathon just a few hours ago. Dave ran his second Boston Qualifying time of the year finishing in 3:29:33. Dennis set a PR finishing in 3:55:32. It should be pointed out that both men raced all 26.2 miles in the rain!

John Clark made the flight across the country to Oregon for his race. John has been training hard to try to qualify for Boston. The hard work paid off as he ran an impressive 3:10:20 in the Eugene Marathon. Great job John!

Hope to hear some race reports if anyone would like to share.