The Latest Running News and Notes from Sportswrap, Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

No Stopping Us Now!

We have plenty to chat about but here’s a few quick words:

Let’s get some Results going on Here!

Mother’s day weekend was full of activity, starting with the 9TH annual Dolphin Dash 5K at Ocean Lakes High School as David Harrison took the Top Spot in 17:31, while the Ladies had Carissa Pascanik grabbing first for the Females with a solid 20:21.

Just a few miles away, former Guiness World Record Holder, Drew Midland was flat out fast at the Equi-Kids Cross Country 5k in 18:36. Virignia Beach’s Nina Englund broke the tape for the women in 22:12, along Sandbridge Road.

That’s plenty of action but, a run on the “Wild Side” was on the menu in Norfolk. The always speedy Ryan Carroll took the 5k event in 15:36. (Is it my imagination or is he getting faster?) On the Ladies side, Yoko England was flying through the 3.1 mile course, taking the crown in 19:49.

Rocking down the highway, the Queens Lake 5K went to Mark Tompkins,with a strong 16:35. There must be something in the water as Jennifer Quarles, made Williamsburg proud for the Ladies with an 18:59. With all that speed going on, it had to be contagious. Mercedes Castillo-D’Amico, the 54 female from Newport News set an “Age Group” record for the course by posting a 19:50. That’s good enough to win some races outright! Congrats to you if you raced this weekend.

Also, I got the chance to watch some of the Virginia Beach Middle School City Championships at Tallwood High School. Let me just say this- Sometimes I think I might be running fast but, “WOW!” Some incredible efforts all around from Long Jumps, Relays, 800s, 1600s, the 200 and 100m Dash. Just Amazing!

So Where’s the Party?

This week shows no sign of taking a break: Check out the Girls on the Run 5K, starting at MacArthur Center in Norfolk.
Races are “down the road a piece”, with the Lytle Law 5K in Newport News.

Wanna go further? The Dominion Riverrock Filthy 5K Mud Run is Friday, while the James River Scramble 10K is Saturday. Combine that with the Thule Urban Assualt Mountain Bike Race, all near Richmond and that might be enough.

Not quite!
The Run for the Dream 8K goes off Saturday in colonial Williamsburg. it’s also featuring the the US Masters 8K Championships with 40 states being represented. Sunday, the Run for the Dream Half Marathon goes off at 7am. I’ll be taking a run on the Parkway. Maybe, I’ll see you there!

What Do You Know?

They say the future of a sport is in the Youth movement. I was lucky enough to get some time with Nick Mayers of the Virginia Beach Flames, a local Running group that has quite a resume of great runners. i could tell you about it but, why don’t you check my interview with Coach Nick:

Thanks, Coach Nick!

If you have any comments, or suggestions for a good story idea, drop me a line. I can’t do this without your feedback. Please share it with your Running friends as well.

That’s all this time. Maybe I’ll catch you… “On the Run!”

“On The Run” with Sportswrap Running reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding, here on WAVY.com

The Latest Running News and Notes in Hampton Roads with Sportswrap, Running reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Crazy Times!

If you were one of the thousands that took part in the Color Me Rad 5k in Virginia Beach, congratulations on doing something very cool last Saturday. Running friends told me that they were still trying to get some of the colored corn starch out from under their fingernails. I ran past there watching the cars making their way to the Sportsplex. I even got a few “shoutouts” from some friends as well.

Up the road, the Colonial Heritage 5K in Lightfoot went to “FOB- Friend of the Blog”,Karen Terry, of Newport News in 18:55, while Daniel Shaye, another great Running friend, made Williamsburg proud, capturing the overall crown, with a 17:33. Over in Newport News, the 5K by the Bay went to Hampton’s Nick Parton,posting a strong 17:24, with Leslie Fedon, of Virginia Beach, The Fastest Female in 21:28.

Sunday, I was helping out the Foundation Fighting Blindness at the Oceanfront with their Charity Walk but, I got there jsut as the JFS 8K and 5K were winding down at 31st street. Congrats to Carl Bruggeman, first overall in the 8k, with a 32:55. Ashley Grosch took the Ladies crown with a 34:01. In the 5k, Chesapeake’s Mollie Turner was the overall winner with 19:32. Running stayed “All in the Family” as Mark Manny was “number one” for the guys with 21:30 but, speeedy wife Stephanie Manny was just ahead of him with a 20:09.

Time To Go Racin’!

Lots of running going down this week, starting with the Virginia Senior Games 5K Thursday, then Friday the Senior Games hit the 10K. Add in the Track and Field events Saturday and that’s a full weekend! Lee’s Friends Run on the Wildside 5K are at it again on Saturday, starting at the Norfolk Zoo. This has been a good time for all who stick around plus, when was the last time you went to the zoo?

On the Peninsula, the Queens Lake 5K at New Quarter Park dashes off with plenty of strong runners. Out in Virignia Beach, the EQUI-KIDS 5K & Hound Run takes off just off Sandbridge Road and across the line, the 29th Yuengling Nags Head Woods 5K completes a busy Saturday.

Feedback Time!

I have been seeing so many great runners in the area out recently, including Masters standout, Tom Purcell from Town Center Fitness, along with several others in my neighborhood. Then I realized, we are closing in on some exciting races like the 2012 USA Masters 8km National Championships on May 19th in Williamsburg, the Run for the Dream Half Marathon, the next day, while the following Memorial day weekend, the Elizabeth River 10k Run blitzes through the streets of Portsmouth. There are SO many NEW races this year, it’s good to be a Runner these days…

Lastly, a big “Good Luck” to the High School and Middle School runners competing at their City or District meets. With classes slowly winding down, the youth of Hampton Roads continue to keep it hot! To quote our Running Friend, Steve Speirs, “Bring your Best!”

Look for our Blog weekly here on WAVY.com or find archived blogposts at onthrunwithflex.wordpress.com. Whatever you’re training for, have an awesome weekend! Maybe I’ll catch you… “On The Run!”

On the Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter Jon “Flex” Leiding on WAVY.com

The Latest Running News and Notes in the “757″, with Sportswrap, Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Take Your Mark…

Another crazy week blew through the Hampton Roads area. Parks, streets, trails, and course all got a great pounding from SO many events this past weekend. Big “Congrats” to all of you who got out and pinned on the race number. Starting in Suffolk for the Spring Stride 5K, Quinn Beers laid the 3.1 mile course to waste in 17:33, while the always swift, Pamela Lovett led the Ladies in 18:44.

A few miles away, Chesapeake played host to the Full Bloom 50K and Half Marathon. New to the area, Fairfax’s Ben Apfelbaum blazed the course in 3:54:28 to capture the Thirty-One mile event, with Portsmouth’s Meghan Gebke wasn’t far behind as the ladies Winner in 4:14:02. That’s really strong!

Speaking of Strong, fresh off pacing his wife at the sweltering Boston Marathon last Monday, Virginia Beach’s Steve Speirs won the Half Marathon in 1:26:46, with Melissa Adams, of Wilmington, NC the Top Female with a 1:35:14. As a bonus, the awards were very cool looking.

Up the road for the Walsingham Academy 5K, good friend of the blog, Daniel Shaye took the Overall title with a 17:26. That’s moving but,the big story was Karen Terry, the Newport News native set a new course record of 18:44, best the old record by nearly a minute.

Just a few exits off “64″, Yorktown 16 year old, Dylan Sydnor took the 5k title in 17:06 at the Trot for Teal 5K & 8K. Julie Rose was “Number One” with a 22:19. In the 8K, which I tell friends is a bus length short of five miles, Chesapeake’s Ashley Diette led the Ladies with a 36:05, while the Overall crown went to Newport News’ John Scott, with a strong 30:36.

Across the line, Reston’s John McGreevy was the winner of the First Flight 5k, with a sparkling 17:05. Elizabeth Di Bene was the Ladies Champion with a 21:20. Sunday, the Flyin’ Pirate Half Marathon went off without regard to the weather and Alex Goden,of Brevard, NC took advantage, winning in 1:15:38. Williamsburg’s Masters Speedster, John Piggott was strong with a second place finish in 1:17:35. Kill Devil Hills local, Jessica Witter took the Top spot for the Women in 1:31:31.

That’s all amazing, but my supreme tip of the cap to all who took part in the Relay for Life Cancer Charity 24 hour race at Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Newport News. Tommy Neeson, one of the guys I was “hitched” to for the Shamrock Marathon, managed to log 102 miles! I usually get tired driving that far! Congratulations to all-now get some rest!

No Time to Slow Down!

After a great week like that, it’s hard to top it. This weekend offers some more racing gems. Take you pick:
Tabb High School will be hosting it’s May Day 5K,so be ready to race Saturday. Get up early and “lace ‘em up” for the Fort Eustis Wounded Warrior Runs of 5k & 10k. A few miles further in Courtland, the Raider Run 5K takes off.

On the Southside, the Independence MS 5K & 1 Miler goes off with New Tidewater Strider Hall of Famer, Monica Reilly handling the Race Director duties. Should be a good time for all.

Sunday at Newport News City Center, the Dig-In Earth Day 5K will be a great Sunday run. Also, get the kids outside with the Christopher Farms 5K and One Mile Race.

You can learn more about all these races at tidewaterstriders.com, mettleevents.com, penninsulatrackclub.com, and colonialroadrunners.org

Local Ties and News

Saw a note about Billy Edwards, a great Friend of the Blog and accomplished triathlete, who recently coached the Navy Triathlon team to a 2nd place team placement at Collegiate Nationals in Tuscaloosa, Alabama! Billy was raised in Virginia but moved to Colorado in 2007 after serving in the Marines. While in the military, Billy led a platoon in Operation Iraqi Freedom during the initial assault and rebuilding period. He’s currently involved with an 8 man RAAM team named Team4Mil. It is an all military and former military team that is riding to draw awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). In 50 days, this team of triathles will try to cover Three Thousand miles in Five days! Nicknamed “Billy the Kid”, we will be visiting with him closer to the date and wish the team well in their training. You can learn more about the team’s efforts at www.team4mil.org, or www.facebook.com/team4mil. Thanks for the “heads up”, Billy!

Feedback and Stuff

With SO many races going on, it seems like new ones pop up every day. No worries, I am happy to give you all the information. I am human, so if I miss a race, or if you have an idea for a good story, please contact me at astrovp@yahoo.com. Keep the great comments coming and please leave feedback. The staff believes “On The Run” is one of, if not the most popular places visited on WAVY.com. Thanks for checking it each week. Feel free to share with your friends. Unlike races that sellout, we say “the more, the merrier!”

Check with us next week for more on the Running scene in Hampton Roads here at WAVY.com. Maybe, I’ll catch you…”On The Run!”

On the Run, with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

The Latest Running News and Notes in Hampton Roads from Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

A Whole Lot Of Shaking Going On!
I am telling you there’s something in the water: Former William and Mary All-American Sean Graham, of Alexandria, became just the 3rd runner ever to break the 15-minute barrier in a Colonial Road Runners Grand Prix race, winning the 3rd annual Run the D.O.G 5k in 14:57. The other two are also past W&M All-Americans–11-time All-American Matt Lane and 4-time All-American Ed Moran, who won the first two Run the DOG races in 14:13 with a Virginia state resident 5K record. On a side note, Ed, who also finished in the Tope ten at the New York City Marathon is prepping for the Olympic trials for London on the short track. Sportswrap Reporter Ali Lucia has been working on the story. We’ll keep you informed when it airs on WAVY TV 10 and FOX 43. Two-time Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier Renee High, a big friend of the blog, broke the women’s record in 17:53. That’s some amazing speed on both sides!

This Race was Dismal!

Our good friends at Mettle Events had another speedy Dismal Swamp Half Marathon, where Eric Chirchir, who won the Shamrock half just a month ago, took the Overall title with a 1:04:42. Forty-three year old,Angelika Averkova was the fastest female in 1:16:20. Amazing Age Graded efforts were put in by 50 year old Female, Firaya Sultanova-Lhdanova who sped thru the 13.1 miles in 1:21:38 and the amazing Bill Hart of Virginia Beach, 63, who was swift and strong with a 1:28:09. That’s some speed!

Boston Ate Everyone Up!

With temperatures in the upper 80s, nearly 4200 Runners opted NOT to run the Boston Marathon this past Monday. Where do I start to crow about our Hampton Roads friends?

Team Hoyt was well represented for the first time this year. Dennis Welch of Norfolk was an inspiration, Thomas Hicks showed all of Beantown they were wrong and that he belonged. Our friends we highlighted weeks ago with their Charity Runs, Ally Speirs ran with her husband Steve and Kate Handley, returned to Boston to shine along the course. There was Justin Turner, who even with the heat, still broke the Three hour Barrier, Billy Chorey, who’s always fast tore up the streets, and even 75 year old, Duane Luggee, of Norfolk made this Boston marathon one for the ages. Congratulations to ALL of you who went and conquered the 26.2 miles. It was quite an accomplishment!

Don’t Stop Believin’!

This weekend, the action will help you “hold on to that feelin…” with the Suffolk YMCA 5K and One mile Run Saturday morning, along with the Miles for Young Minds 5K at the Oceanfront, or take a trip to Williamsburg for the Walsingham Academy 5K. Sunday serves up the Thorogood Elementary 1 miler. Youngsters in the area really have been posting some fast times and this one is a perfect fit for them.

Wanna really get a Long run?

The Peninsula Track Club has the 24-Hour Ultra Run & Relay, beginning Saturday morning and ending Sunday morning, all at Sandy Bottom Nature Park. Sounds very challenging. Not quite ready for that but, still want to tear up the miles? Try the Full Bloom 50K and Half Marathon at Greenbrier Farm in Chesapeake. A little trip to the Outer Banks might be fun too! The Flying Pirate Half Marathon is this Sunday as well. if you’re racing this weekend, “Good Luck!”

My way of Saying “Thanks!”

SO MANY of you continue to turn your friends onto our little blog here, so for that, I am truly pleased you enjoy it. That said, I also like your input below. Thanks to Marie Johns for reminding us that Inspired Events had the Bunny Hop 5K and Thumper Run for ADA at the OneLife Chesapeake location on Easter weekend. A really nice location for a run.

Also, my friends- Let me know something about you: How many races have you run, or if you’re just starting out, or if you have a race on the “to do” list.

As always, appreciate the feedback! Maybe I’ll catch you next time… “On The Run!”

On The Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding here on WAVY.com.

The Latest Running News in Hampton Roads from Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Away We Go!

Even Easter weekend and Spring Break couldn’t keep many of you off the roads and at the races. On campus, the Monarch 5k at Old Dominion University gave Newport News’ George Fiscella a chance to matriculate to the front with the Overall win in 19:25, while the Ladies were led by Jessica Dinkins with a quick 23:35.

Maryclare Mcquade was fast and swift as the Fastest Female for the Bunny Hop 5K in Chesapeake with a 20:12. Norfolk’s Wes Landfear was the Overall winner, with a 19:08. No resting on this holiday…

In Newport News Park, the first Annual Run for Autism was won by good F.O.B.-Friend of the Blog, Daniel Shaye, who sped through the course in 37:21. Hampton’s Kylee Jordan was the Women’s Winner with a quick 45:41.

Keeping the Autism cause going, the Virginia Autism Awareness 5K run in Virginia Beach was captured by Tidewater Strider Hall of Famer, Pete Gibson with a 17:06. (Been waiting to use that one…) The Ladies Title went to Stephanie Manny with a blistering 18:55. With husband, Mark, who helped set the Guiness World Record at the Shamrock Marathon a few weeks ago, that’s a pretty fast family!

Portsmouth Standout,Ryan Carroll was rolling, literally for VB Team Hoyt in 18:00. He embraces the challenges and really brings clout to Team Hoyt!

Football and Track Cross Paths?

Thanks again to our F.O.B., Ryan Caroll for posting this: 2008 400-meter gold medalist, Portsmouth’s LaShawn Merritt, has been talking about the Olympics and training for this years event. Recently, he mentioned a random story about a bet with Hampton Roads’ native and current Washington Redskin,DeAngelo Hall.

“He is from the same area as me, and his agent was having a pool party right after the Olympics. D-Hall is a trash talker, so of course he started talking that he could beat me in a race. I just won the gold medal so I wasn’t hearing any of it. He was going to put up $100,000 against my gold medal. He wanted to do a 40-yard dash, but we settled on the 100-meter. Nothing ever came of it, though.” Might have been a fun “dream race”…

Go Get Yours This Week!

Races are everywhere for the next few days. Get historical in Colonial Williamsburg Saturday and race the Duke of Gloucester Street 5K Challenge . Rick Platt and our Colonial Road Runner Friends always put on a good show.

The schedule also hits Chesapeake for the Dismal Swamp Half Marathon. You know Mettle Events’ Ann Hupp has a great race planned. I’ll have my camera and maybe get a quick story. I’ll let you know.

Wanna go to the Eastern Shore? The Run for the Animals Half Marathon & 10K Race gets moving on Sunday. After Sunday….

The Third Monday of April Means One Thing…

For 116 years, runners have taken to the 26.2 mile challenge that ends on Boylston Street. Many of you from Hampton Roads will be making the trip and participating in America’s longest Running Marathon. There are only two ways to be able to run this event: either have a fast enough qualifying time, or raise enough for a charity. We highlighted Ally Speirs and Kate Handley weeks ago, who I am happy to report made their fundraising goals and will be taking Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham,and Natick by storm. For those of you who will experience it for the first time, enjoy the screams from the Women of Wellesley College to the challenging hills later in this race. They say once you’ve run Boston, you know you belong. Here’s to Fast Times for you all.

If you have a story idea or want to leave a comment, feel free to do it here. I appreciate the feedback. I’ll catch you next time…“On The Run!”

On The Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding on WAVY.comm

The Latest Running News and Notes by Sportswrap running reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

We Want Results and We Mean Now!

We can’t move forward until we check the rear view mirror one time. Translated roughly, it means, “Here’s to the Winners last week!” At the Spartyka 5k, Newport News’ Chris Reoyo took the Overall title in 18:13, while the always strong, Nancy Delaney was the first to the tape for the Ladies with a 20:47.

Over at Mount Trashmore last weekend, I was driving by as runners were at the starting line for the Cerebral Palsy 5k. Congrats to Alexey Popov, who posted the swift winning time of 19:18, while the Women’s champ that day was Lauren Emery who brought her best in 23:58. Big shout out to all of you who hit the road last week for all these cool races.

Keep On Movin!

Gotta give up some “luv” for my Peninsula friends. The Yorktown Victory Run 8 Miler went off fast and furious and when the dust settled, John Piggott, one of our good friends “On the Run”, made Williamsburg proud, by winning in 46:38. The running machine, Renee High, laid waste to the old course record by over thirty seconds, with a scorching 50:04. Well done!

Ready to Go Get Some?

This week, all sorts of events are at your disposal. With the weather now in official Spring mode, race names also get creative. in Washington, D.C. the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler Sunday will be a great time. If the road is calling, Surry beckons with the Virginia Duathlon, offering a 23 mile bike ride, then a 5k run. Good luck to those of you that “Du!”

On The Road and On The Run!

Saturday, Richmond is the place for the swift and strong with the Monument Avenue 10K. if you like to hit the hills and go nostalgic, the legendaryCharlottesville Ten Miler is a must.

Closer To Home…

The local races are just as strong, including the Seabee Celebration 5K in Norfolk on Saturday, then off to the Beach for the Colon Cancer 5K, starting at the Princess Anne Sentara Hospital. Just around the corner, the Sportsplex hosts the VB Mustangs 5K trail race. Hope you’re ready!

What’s the Latest?

Deb Buenaga is Executive Director for Preston’s March for Energy. the nonprofit organization that raises money for adaptive bikes for children with special needs. We wore the orange shirts during the Marathon to raise awareness. According to her, they recently hooked up a young lady with a bike and was overjoyed. Pictures, in this case, are definitely worth a thousand words. Thanks to all who contribute and send support.

Catch us next week as we have the camera ready to go for the Spring and the latest race news and maybe someone you know. Thanks for the feedback and keep sharing with your Friends. Maybe, I’ll catch you… “On the Run!”

On The Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding on WAVY.com.

The Latest Running News and Notes in Hampton Roads from Sportswrap, Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

What a Weekend!
The seasons have changed and The Shamrock Sportsfest weekend was an amazing way to get it rolling. Where do I point out excellence? How about Leprechaun Bob, who on Sunday called out every finishers name for nine hours.
I spoke with him afterward. his voice is doing just fine…

Seriously!

Starting Saturday with the 8k, Julius Kogo blazed the course in 22:34. Rachel Ward was the fastest female in 26:44. Williamsburg’s Andrew Budiansky led the locals from the “757″ in 26:20, while the always speedy, Renee High was the swiftest from Hampton Roads in 29:44.

Halfway There!
In the Half Marathon, Tesfaye Alemayehu crushed the competition with a blistering 1:03:38. That averages out to 4:51 a mile! That’s faster than some of the vehicles during rush hour around here! on the Ladies side, Helen Jemutai was just moments behind with a 1:11:27. Virginia Beach’s Stephanie Manny was the local Ladies Leader in an impressive 1:21:21, while Portsmouth’s Ryan Carroll continues his dominant ways with a Top 20 finish in 1:09:42. Like a fine wine, he seems to get better with age.

And The Marathon…

Capping off the weekend of over 25,000 runnersand so many festive outfits, the Marathon went to Jynocel Basweti in 2:22:57, with the Women’s title going toTezata Dengersa with a 2:50:01. BIG LOVE to one of our good “Friends On The Run”, Billy Chorey, from Suffolk paced the locals with a Top Ten finish in 2:45:49. When I saw him, he was rolling around Mile Six. Congrats also to Gina McGee, also from Portsmouth. She claimed the Masters Female crown with an incredible 2:59:02 and fourth overall for the Ladies. Fast times are Everywhere!

Going Long!

If 26.2 miles is a bit long for you to run, our friends from Team Hoyt have a fresh view to check out. Big “shoutout” to Bern Roxer, who forwarded me the cool link of Tim Brown and Dennis Welch qualifying for the Boston Marathon through the Team Hoyt VB program. It’s pretty cool to see the runners go by using the time lapse technology, This is the first year locals from Team Hoyt will be in the Boston Marathon. Copy and paste this link to enjoy this fast paced video:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Runners-POV/326441707412970.

Thanks Guys!

Then That Guiness World Record Thing…

Major Congratulations to Tommy Neeson, Joel Bell, Drew Midland and Mark Manny for letting me be a part of a Guiness World Record broken for the fastest marathon by at least five people linked together. The old record, set in 2011 was 3:26:15. After dragging me around for 26.2 miles, we were able to drop that record by over twenty minutes in 3:06:04. I agreed to be part of the team less than a month before the race, when an injury sidelined one of the guys.

Originally. I came in with many goals. I wanted to finish, wanted to not be the one to let the team down, wanted to finish a marathon without stopping, and like a good friend says,”bring my best”. Mission accomplished on all of them. This was my second fastest marathon out of ten. To the guys- “Thanks” for taking this guy for a very cool “long run”.

Now It Starts!

This week it all gets going with SO many races in very cool places. At the Oceanfront, the fourth annual Spartyka Wounded Warrier 5K takes off from 31st Street. Mt. Trashmore offers up the Cerebral Palsy 5K and One Mile Run. The Peninsula has “speed fever” as well, with the Yorktown Victory 8 Mile Run. Not enough for you? Sunday, head to the top! The top of Dominion Tower in Norfolk with the Step up for the Up Center Run
. You can choose to run up the 25 story building once, twice, or even four times.

For my duathlon and triathlon friends, we’re just a couple weeks from the Virginia Duathlon in Surry. Hope your training is coming along well. Running, Swimming, and Biking compliment each other very well.

To learn more about these races and more, check out mettleevents.com, colonialroadrunners.org, and tidewaterstriders.com.

Feedback

As always, we can’t do this without you. Keep up the great work and I’ll keep sharing more wonderful efforts and stories. If you have a story idea, like our new friend “On The Run”, Bern Rexer, drop me a line. Hit me up with a comment here or email me the info to astrovp@yahoo.com.

Time to go for now, but look for our blog, weekly here at WAVY.com. Keep training and racing well. Maybe, I’ll catch you… “On The Run!”

On the Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding only on WAVY.com

The Latest Notes and News, On the Run with Sportswrap Runnning Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Spring is Near

The warm temperatures seem to point to an early Spring. That or the speedy times heating up the “757″ recently…
At the Cox HS Falcon 5K, Portsmouth’s Ryan Carroll was on cruise control, winning in 16:40, while the Ladies were led by Stephanie Manny with a sizzling 18:52.

Just up the road, Kurtis Steck, just 17, was speeding through the course at the Jamestown Swamp Run 5K with a 16:58 and Jennifer Quarles, also from Williamsburg Ladies record with a 19:31.

The BIG Weekend Awaits!

St. Patrick’s Day has celebrations and races everywhere Saturday. The 8th annual Ali’s 5k Run in Williamsburg is available and a little further in Chesterfield, the Instant Classic Marathon Trail Run and Half Marathon are up for grabs. Head to the Oceanfront and the Shamrock 8K and Kids Final Mile, which both end near the statue of King Neptune.

Then Sunday, we go BIG!

The 40th annual Shamrock Marathon and Half Marathon get going at the beach and from what I’ve heard, only a few spots remain for the Marathon. J&A Racing let me know that close to 25,000 runners will be toeing the line for one of the races this weekend.

There is a Guinness World record attempt on the line, along with some great runners ready to bring their best. We will be on the scene this weekend and I’ll have a report as well. Watch WAVY TV 10 Sunday morning and you might see us at the Oceanfront, along with someone you know. Also check WAVY.com next week for a complete wrap up.

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!

There is no way I get to do what I do without the support of so many runners and friends of the Blog. We continue to expand our friends from around the country. Please keep spreading the word. If you have an idea for a great story or a suggestion you think might be interesting, please drop me a line at astrovp@yahoo.com.

Spring is on it’s way and we’ll do our best to keep you covered. Good Luck on your training, no matter how far you go. Maybe, I’ll catch you soon… “On The Run!”

On the Run with Sportwrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

The Latest Running News and Notes around the “757″ from Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Let’s Hear it for the Ladies!

I am always impressed with so many great Runners in the area, but in a pouring rain Saturday, Mettle Events had their 15K leading up to the Dismal Swamp Half Marathon in April. The Ladies owned the Top three spots as DisneyWorld Marathon Champion, Renee High bested the course in 57:01, followed by Courtney Myfanw Chapman with 59:19, and Kristen Lawrence with a 1:00:30.
chesapeake’s Omar Higazi led the guys with a 1:05:00.

Children are the Future

The Youth Running season is underway and with the Shamrock Final Mile next week, the Pembroke Meadows Elementary Mile this past weekend was the perfect tune up as 13 year olds, William Verhappen in 5:41, Josiah Ramsawh with 5:45, and Travis Redmond in 5:53 all broke six minutes. Ryan Carroll of Portsmouth was the Overall Champ in 4:51, while Virginia Beach’s Kiara Jenkins, just 14, was the ladies winner in 6:22.

Shoutout to My Old School!

Granby High School’s 4 X 200 Meter Relay Team of Tyree Wise, Rodney Godfrey, Sidney Fulford and Lawrence Harris
finished third by 1/100 of a second in the Virignia State Indoor Track Meet, qualifying them for the New Balance indoor nationals in New York City, along with standout squads from Hampton and Bethel HS. While the economy is tough these days and funds a bit low, a teacher at Granby HS made a few calls and happened upon Ann Hupp from Mettle Events. Hearing the story and that they had just a few days to raise the money, Mettle Events offered to pay for their trip to NYC! Ann is always doing some great things in the area and a friend “On The Run”. Best wishes to the team and their coach Jordan Crawford. Good Luck to all of our Runners in the Big Apple!

Record Timing
Like many of you, I was looking forward to March 7th. 3pm exactly. My browser was open to the Marine Corps Marathon Webpage, watching as each second was counting down. Friends posted that the clock was moving so slow. I had run the last two Octobers in D.C. and was hoping my wife and I would try it again. With under an hour to go, I left for a chiropracter appointment to get me straightened up for next week’s Shamrock Marathon, then went home. I was reminded to cut the grass, too my daughter to dance class, then went to my office to get us registered right at 6pm. I logged on and…”what hap…” SOLD OUT! 30,000 spots taken in a record time of two hours and forty one minutes.

For those of you that got in, “congratulations”. This was a great race for me last year. The military presence along the course is second to none. You will feel honored to be given a medal from a Marine at this finish. For the rest of us, there are options. You can do fundraising for one of the charity spots, run other races, maybe Richmond, the OBX, or the New Norfolk Freedom Marathon, all in November. There’s also New York and out of town choices.

Ready to Go Racing?

Not everyone has a Marathon or Half Marathon goal in sight, but you might find just the right race this weekend at Jamestown High School with the 11th annual Jamestown High School Swamp Run 5K. It’s an out-and-back race with a One Mile Fun run at 9am, followed by the 5K at 9:30. You can even register the day of the race.

What’s Up with The Shamrock Next Weekend?

Glad you asked! PLENTY! Last year, we were lucky enough to catch up with, now Tidewater Strider Hall of Famer and Race Director, Jerry Frostick. I reposted it here just to refresh your memory:

On The Run with Jon “Flex” Leiding & Jerry Frostick from Jon Leiding on Vimeo.

Next week, the Sportswrap’s Ali Lucia will be at the race, so if you see our cameras…SMILE! I heard we may even do a Live Shot on the scene. WAVY TV 10 and Fox 43 are your plce to get the best Running coverage of the Shamrock Sportsfest, so watch for our coverage. You may see someone you know. I’ll have my interviews coming with a surprise or two as well. Details will be coming nest week. Like we say in TV, “stay tuned”….

Feedback Time!

I can’t do this without the great input of SO many people in Hampton Roads. Your time and efforts towards this great sport make it easy for me to write and talk with people we admire. Keep it coming and I’ll keep going!

Look for On the Run weekly here at WAVY.com Have a Great Weekend!

On The Run with Sprotswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

The Latest Running News and Notes in Hampton Roads from Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding

Looking Back Before We Go Forward

This past weekend the Tidewater Striders had their Distance series Races, prepping runners training for the Shamrock Half or Full Marathon. The two races through First Landing State Park had a 30K with Fastest Female, Jennifer Jellig looking good in 2:19:38, while Portsmouth’s Ryan Carroll cruised in 1:50:06. In the 20K Ross Montfort claimed the Men’s title in 1:13:14, while the speedy Pamela Lovett was the First Fema1e in 1:28:40.

Masterful Speed!

Williamsburg always seems to have some great runners- maybe its the rolling hills, the nationally recognized college, or maybe the winery. Indoor Track meets are great ways to “take it up” a notch but, Stephen Chantry, 57, took the Thursday Night Races at the New York Armory to a whole new level. The Masters great clocked a 4:47 mile! While impressive, he’s run under 4:50 three times during the Indoor season. Also, the latest issue of Running Times Magazine has him ranked nationally as one of the Top Runners in the age group 55-59 and you understand when I say “Way to Rock, Stephen!”

The PTC had recently had their Gloucester 8K with Brian Crow winning the overall race, while Williamsburg Female Masters standout, Connie Glueck continues to shine, being the Ladies’ Champ. We enjoy all the info we get from our Running Clubs in the area- keep ‘em coming!

A Different View!

My utmost respect to all of you who run for a cause. These two ladies will line up at the Boston Marathon, thanks to your support. Good Luck to Ladies with your fundraising efforts. You can help Kate Handley and the Dana Farber Cancer Research group by visiting this link: www.rundfmc.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=484862&lis=1&kntae484862=DED7178AB3844B788519FAE0D3780B2E&supId=107500486.

You can help out Ally Speirs and the Childrens Hospital Boston by checking out this link: http://howtohelp.childrenshospital.org/bostonmarathon/page/Ally-Speirs.htm#.T0FBW7Yg64I.facebook.

Time to Go Racing!

Time to get serious! Less than four weeks to go until the Shamrock Sportsfest weekend but, some great races are available this weekend. Saturday,if you want some cross country action? We’ve got you covered with the Hampton Roads Runners 5K Classic, behind the Virginia Beach Sportsplex. Mettle events brings the action to Virginia Weslyan with the Mud In Your Eye 8K race, while Sunday, Williamsburg is the spot for a challenging run with the Colonial Half Marathon. You actually finish in William & Mary Hall.
You can find out about these races at http://www.meetup.com/HamptonRoadsRunners/events/47558182/, colonialroadrunner.org, mettleevents.com

Feedback!

As always, I appreciate your input. It’s great when someone lets me know I missed something or tells me about a great story idea. It means you are keeping me on my toes. Also, continue sharing our blog with your Running Friends. We are committed to being a great Running friend “On Your Side”. Feel free to leave a comment or story idea. Meantime, keep on rocking! Maybe, I’ll catch you…”On The Run!”

On the Run with Sportswrap Running Reporter, Jon “Flex” Leiding