Presidential Thoughts...

The executive committee has had numerous discussions lately about why many members do not attend meetings. Is it the location? Do we need better programs? My response was perhaps we are doing such a good job at getting information out in the Rundown and on our web site that runners feel they do not need to attend. Heidi Underwood and Gen May have both done incredible jobs. Applications, race results, photos and general information are easily accessed by our readers and web site visitors. But I hope you will remember that meetings are where the work is done. We could use more input, more volunteers and of course we would be glad to see some new faces. The Grand Prix Awards meeting at the Days Inn on February 27th might be a good place to start.

Eight hundred eighty-eight runners turned out for the First Night 5K in Saratoga to start the New Year in a healthy, positive fashion. The weather cooperated and the temperature was ideal. The Adirondack Runners had a very large turnout. Derick Staley (44) had an impressive fifth place overall finish, especially considering the number of high school runners this race draws. Sally McGuirk ran a 7:48 pace to take a third place (out of 66 runners) in her age. Jim Moore placed second in his age group. Walt McConnell, Sakiko Claus, John Pelton and Candi Schermerhorn all placed first in their respective age groups. And even with child Verginie Poritzky managed to get a second place award beating 43 of her same age competitors. And she told me before the race she was taking it slow!

The 4.4 mile Winter Wimp in Hagaman on January 11 saw several Adirondack Runners picking up awards. Of the 56 finishers Dan Olden placed 11th overall and third in his age. Martha DeGrazia, Jim and Gerri Moore, Barb Bartwitz, and Regina Tumidajeawicz all picked up age group awards. Among the wimps (those who wimp out and do only one loop of 2.2 miles) were Craig, Candi, Janet, Beth and Tom. First names only for wimps!

January has been a very cold, snowy month. You can give in to the cold or you can bundle up and enjoy. This has been a great month for cross training if you cross country ski or snowshoe. A few of us snuck up to Canada for a long weekend of running and skiing. I highly recommend it.

January has also been an especially tough month for me as my father passed away unexpectedly on January 10th. He was a wonderful man. I want to thank all the Adirondack Runners who supported me through this difficult time. Running really is a great way to release the stress, calm the soul and renew the spirit.

Hope to run into you on the roads or at the next meeting.

Jill Pederson