Madison Marathon and myTEAM TRIUMPH: Everyone Wins

A myTEAM TRIUMPH team approaches the finish line of the 2014 Madison Marathon Twilight 10K. © Focal Flame Photography | Credit: Clint Thayer

Rita Kelliher, executive director of Madison Festivals Inc. – the volunteer organization behind Madison Marathon – wants to make something perfectly clear: This race is for everyone. “Madison does not belong exclusively to the people who have the good fortune to live here.  She is the fair daughter of the entire state,” said Kelliher, explaining that funds raised by the Madison Marathon – over $20,000 during the spring events and $28,000 during the fall race – go to local charities rather than a purse for pro athletes.

A Captain crosses the finish line of the 2014 Madison Marathon Twilight 10K under her own power, celebrated and supported by her Angels. Photo © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Credit: Austin Cope.  

It was only fitting, then, that volunteers with the main charity partner of the Spring Madison Marathon are also committed heart and soul to creating opportunities for everyone. myTEAM TRIUMPH is a non-profit that pairs physically challenged athletes (“Captains”) together with able-bodied volunteer athletes (“Angels”) to participate in endurance races, creating inclusion for individuals with varied abilities in events they may not otherwise have experienced. A total of 17 myTEAM TRIUMPH teams will race the Madison Half Marathon or Twilight 10K. 

myTEAM TRIUMPH Race Director Kristin Schmidt said, "The partnership we have with Madison Marathon events has been an important factor in the success for myTEAM TRIUMPH Central Region - Wisconsin since our beginnings in the Madison area.” Schmidt explained that the willingness of Madison Marathon to host so many teams inspires participation both within myTEAM TRIUMPH, and for spectators – some of whom may become motived to volunteer as a team member or support the group in other ways. “We at myTeam Triumph are truly blessed to be supported by this great race organization,” said Schmidt. Kelliher reinforced the importance of the relationship, saying, “Our hope by supporting myTEAM TRIUMPH was that they would inspire runners and spectators to serve its community, with needs as diverse as its people, and give challenged people the thrill many able-bodied individuals take for granted.”

While describing  the teams (most consisting of one Captain and three Angels), Schmidt said, “At each training events our captains cannot contain their excitement for the upcoming race weekend.” The Madison Half Marathon on Sunday will also include an elite team (one Captain and one Angel). This super-charged duo is Captain Josilyn and her uncle Scott McDermott. Even better: Sunday is Josilyn’s birthday. 

Schmidt encouraged all spectators to make some noise from the sidelines, saying, “Every captain loves hearing their name cheered, so don't forget, if you come across one of our incredible Captains, let them hear you!!!"

To learn more about the work of myTEAM TRIUMPH, watch the video that Focal Flame produced for the organization’s fall 2014 Gala fundraising dinner. 

Interested in getting involved with myTEAM TRIUMPH? Contact them to volunteer, refer a Captain, become an Angel, or donate a gift. 

This article is part of a series featuring the 2015 Madison Marathon event in 2015. Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as the official photographers of the Madison Marathon. All participants in the Madison Marathon receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos compliments of race organizers. The Spring Madison Marathon races will occur on May 23-24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Robyn M. Perrin

Madison Marathon Profile: Jen Johnson

"I run because it's so symbolic of life. You have to drive yourself to overcome the obstacles. You might feel that you can't. But then you find your inner strength, and realize you're capable of so much more than you thought." - Arthur Blank

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges in our path. For 42-year-old Jen Johnson (aka JJ), a breast cancer diagnosis last April was a major hurdle. But after enduring intense treatment that included seven surgeries and 16 rounds of chemo, Jen has beaten cancer and is ready to run this year's Madison Half Marathon. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, is honored to share Jen's inspirational story of how she's reclaiming her body - and enjoying life - after beating breast cancer. 

Jen Johnson sports her Madison Half Marathon T-shirt with friends Kris and Stef at the Torchlight 5k in Minneapolis. The photo was taken by Jen’s husband Eric Johnson in July 2014, two months after Jen’s bilateral mastectomy.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Jen Johnson: 2015 will be my 5th [Madison Half Marathon]. I had to miss 2014 because I had a bilateral mastectomy the week prior to the run.

Selfie portrait taken by Jen before she cut off her hair in preparation for chemotherapy.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
JJ: 2 marathons, and 22 half marathons.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
JJ: I also like to run the Ragnar Relay (Great River); 2015 will be my 3rd. I have also done 6 sprint triathlons and 1 Olympic distance. I was registered for 3 sprint tris and 1 Olympic in 2014, but the breast cancer diagnosis obviously took care of that.

FFP: What are some of your favorite events?
JJ: My favorite events and ones I keep coming back for are the Madison Half Marathon and the Lake Tahoe Half Marathon (2015 will be my 5th run in Lake Tahoe).

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?
JJ: Participating in events like Madison help me stay motivated throughout the year...especially during a cold winter! They give me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It's what got me through 16 rounds of chemo, reconstructive surgery, a total hysterectomy, etc. I adore the city of Madison...the vibe of the run is special to me. My best running buddy Stefanie and I like to go to brat fest afterward and stop at one of the establishments on State Street for a delicious Spotted Cow. Stef and I have run many half marathons together in a half dozen or so states....she helps keep me motivated. 

Children in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Photo taken by Jen during a volunteer medical service trip by Seattle Alliance Outreach, a medical nonprofit. Jen serves on the board of directors of the organization. She brought indestructible soccer balls for the youth to play with after seeing children using broken bottles and rolled-up dirty diapers for soccer games. 

FFP: Can you tell us what it has been like to train for race season after battling cancer?
JJ: I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ in April, 2014. The past year has been a roller coaster of surgeries (7!) and chemotherapy. Training for this race has been tough. It is my first "big" run after this ordeal and it has been stressful and hard to build my endurance up. My doctor says it is the best thing for me, though, and that resuming intense physical activity results in a 36% lower chance of recurrence of cancer. Mentally, I just want to "get back to who I was" before my diagnosis. Chemo and steroids really do a number on you...so I'm hoping that if I'm able to complete this run I will feel better about myself and like less of a patient.

Truthfully, I'm slower than a turtle but as long as I'm able to be out there, I will do my best.  I also miss being part of the running community. I always felt good being grouped with runners.

FFP: Will you be doing anything to make your races this year more meaningful?
JJ: I am hoping to raise money for my relay for life team (Anoka County Relay for Life Pirates of the CURE-i-bbean), which benefits the American Cancer Society. 

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
JJ: I'm on the board of directors of a volunteer medical group out of Seattle (Seattle Alliance Outreach). We take several trips to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia each year. We are working on building a kidney dialysis center and have assisted with renovations to the ORs and the recovery room of the Black Lion Hospital. When I went there in early 2014 (the month before my cancer diagnosis) I brought over indestructible soccer balls for the kids around the hospital with funds raised by my 13 year old son. I was compelled to do something after I visited Addis and saw the children playing soccer with broken bottles and rolled up dirty diapers.

FFP: Is there anything else you'd like to share?
JJ: I'd like to encourage all women to get their mammograms!
[Editor's note: For more information about breast cancer detection, visit the American Cancer Society's website.]

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. The Spring Half-Marathon race will occur on May 24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Greg B.

Greg B. during the Spring 2014 Madison Half-Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

For Greg B. (50), the Madison Half Marathon has marked important new chapters in his life. After training for his first Madison Half Marathon as a way to deal with the strain of a marriage that was coming to an end, his journey came full circle last year when he proposed to his girlfriend after running the race. (Spoiler alert: She said yes.)

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, talked to Greg about his love of running and about surprising his love Heidi.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run? 
Greg: I have run the Madison Half Marathon every year since 2009.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
Greg: I have run the Madison Half Marathon 6 times this year will be number 7. [The Madison Marathon] is the only half marathon I have run.

Greg proposed to his fiancé after the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. Photo provided by Greg's daughter Rebecca B.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you consistently participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Greg: A couple of reasons: First of all the location, it’s only 35-40 minutes from my house. Secondly, with the race in May, it forces me to get out and run/train during the winter months. I am a CPA and am super busy from January to April 15th, so forcing me to run/stay active helps me focus and be more productive at work as well.
 

FFP: Do you have any goals when running this race?  
Greg: I just try to stay under 2 hours every year I run it. I have done that every year except for the year it was so hot and muggy that the race got closed down.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Greg: I have run with numerous friends/family over the years. This year I talked a friend of mine from Elkhorn to join me. Sharing this by running with friends/family makes it much more fun. It gives you more people to share the experience with after its over and throughout the year.

Also, the reason I decided to run the half marathon the very first year was that I was going through a divorce and the running/training helped me deal with the stress I was feeling. Last year after the half marathon was over, I surprised my girlfriend and proposed to her. I had both of my college-age daughters there and one of my daughter’s boyfriends. They were in on the surprise. After the run was over, we went and stood out of the way under a shady tree, and I turned around took off my sweaty shirt and put on one that said “Heidi, will you marry me.” I turned back around, and when she saw my shirt she dropped her water bottle and couldn’t believe it. Everyone standing around our area started clapping for us. It was a great experience/memory. Running in this race has come full circle for me -from running to deal with the stress of divorce to having great memories of my fiancé saying yes when I asked her to marry me.   

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Greg: I am not a serious runner, but participating in this race annually keeps me in decent shape.  I believe in training in moderation, so as long as I continue to keep my time under 2 hours each year despite getting older, I will be happy.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?  
Greg: One of the biggest reasons I run this race is the awesome atmosphere on race day. It just feels like a very healthy, clean environment where everyone is cheering for you and it feels like one big family. All of the people cheering and encouraging you along the race route is great as well. I would highly encourage anyone who is thinking about running in this race to just do it. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment when it’s over - especially if I hit my time goal.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as official photographers for the Madison Marathon. All participants will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos, brought to you by the event organizers. The Spring Madison Marathon events will occur on May 23 and 24 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Katey Collins

As the spring Madison Marathon events approach on May 23-24, 2015, we will be profiling one Madison Marathoner each week. As we get to know each athlete, we learn that the motivation to train for and complete such a challenging event comes in many forms.

First-time Madison Marathon athlete Katey Collins (39) is inspired by a first-grader named Beau. We asked Katey about why she runs and about the special boy that keeps her motivated.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run? 
Katey: This is my first in Madison.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon this year? 
Katey:I love the community, and my friends are participating.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Katey:Yes, triathlons, mud runs, open water races, aquathons, long relays such as Ragnar and Door County.

FFP: What have been some of your favorite events? 
Katey: Daytona Beach Aquathon, Door County Tri, Big Shoulders Chicago, and Race Day Events Aquathon Series.

FFP: Do you do anything to make the races more meaningful or fun?
Katey: Yes, I go with friends and wear something in honor of Beau.

FFP: How did you connect with Beau?
Katey: I meet him through the group IRun4. [Editor’s note: The group I Run 4 Michael is a nonprofit organization that pairs athletes with a child or adult with special needs, thereby providing a source of encouragement and support for both the athlete and their buddy.]

FFP: What does running and participating in these types of events mean to you?
Katey: It keeps me healthy, mentally AND physically. Training with my friends is as much fun as the event itself. I also get to run in honor of Beau.

Katey Collins (photo provided by Ms. Collins). 

FFP: Can you tell us about Beau?
Katey: [Beau is] an amazing young man who has Cerebral Palsy. He is in first grade, and as his Mom describes him, ‘He has strength, courage, and a will like no other. He has a determination that makes me so proud to be called his mom. Things may be tough for him but he always finds a way to overcome obstacles and he doesn't know the word can’t.’

Beau loves being active, and I truly enjoying doing races for him. He inspires me as I am training and racing. If I am feeling down or frustrated I just think about how many obstacles he has to overcome on a regular basis.

FFP: Are there any other personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
Katey: I have been fortunate enough to compete as an athlete in school, college, and as an adult. Sports have taught me countless life lessons that I pass on to my children, those in my community and those I work with. In order to give back, I have started a non-profit organization with my husband, GOAL. We raise money to pay sports registration fees for youth in the East Troy and Mukwonago communities in Wisconsin.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2015. The spring events will occur on May 23-24, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Feet for Dreams: MyTEAM TRIUMPH

What does it mean to give feet to dreams? Spend some time with MyTEAM TRIUMPH, and you’ll see. This non-profit organization pairs physically challenged individuals, referred to as Captains, with able-bodied athletes called Angels. Together, the teams participate in endurance events. In the process, they create bonds of friendship that change lives forever. 

Captains and Angels have made regular appearances before Focal Flame lenses – both during race season, and in a currently-under-production video project. (Stay tuned.) We recently caught up with MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central Wisconsin Regional Director Lee Dalgety as the organization geared up for its “Black Tie Tri Shorts Gala” on Saturday, November 22, 2014. 

---

Focal Flame Photography: What are your most proud or favorite MyTEAM TRIUMPH moments from 2014? 
Lee Dalgety: Each race brings a different moment, as every time we see a special interaction between the captain and their athletes. If I was forced to pick I would say mine was watching two staff members not only attempt their first sprint triathlon but do it with a Captain. Their look of joy crossing the finish line was incredible.

Focal Flame: What goals does the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central WI region have for 2015? 
Lee: Growth and inclusion. We would like more captains included in more races. We are increasing our number of races to 15 from 10 (we were [originally] only supposed to do 4) and [we] are constantly working with race directors to increase the numbers allowed to participate. We do consider the safety of the captains and participants, but there is definite room for growth.

Focal Flame: Were there any surprises or unexpected challenges faced this year? 
Lee: The biggest surprise was just how enthusiastically the community and race organizers embraced us. This led to the challenge of potential burnout. All of us are volunteers with regular day jobs and so we were finding there were more events than we could handle, and it was about getting the balance right.

Focal Flame: What would you like readers to know about MyTEAM TRIUMPH’s 2014 Captains?
Lee: They are the most inspirational group of people you will ever meet. I do not say this lightly. Most of them face challenges every day that you and I cannot comprehend, and yet look at them during events. Who has the biggest smiles?

Focal Flame: How about the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Angels this year - anything you'd like to highlight? 
Lee: I would like to thank the local running and tri clubs in particular. They have embraced the concept and made it their own. We have a little friendly rivalry going on and at the same time they are forming relationships with the Captains that go beyond just the race.

Focal Flame: What's the best way for readers to get involved in MyTEAM TRIUMPH? 
Lee: Please contact my self or any member of my team. There are three key ways they can get involved:

• Volunteer. These events are logistically challenging, especially with many Captains. The more hands the better.
• Become an Angel. We have events to fit all distances and proficiency. This is the best way to get to meet new people.
• Donations. We are a non-profit organization and rely on fundraising and donations to pay for event entries and the equipment the captains need.

Focal Flame: Given all the effort involved in leading a regional chapter, what motivates you?
Lee:  [I can sum this up with my experiences with] Captain Mike during the recent Twin Cities Marathon. He waved, smiled and roared at the crowd for 26.2 miles and they roared back. Lifting his arm is physically exhausting for him, but he did it every time someone cheered him on. I cried for the last two miles. That is what motivates me.

Focal Flame: If you could tell people just one thing about MyTEAM TRIUPH, what would it be?
Lee: Join us, it will change your life! 

Celebrate the achievements of the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central Wisconsin Region at the “Black Tie, Tri Shorts” gala on Saturday, November 22! Proceeds will help the chapter prepare for an amazing 2015 season. Sign up here. Focal Flame Photography is honored to provide photography services at the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Gala. 

Honoring the Greatest: Madison Marathon Supports Badger Honor Flight

Contemplation and reflection among memorials in Washington, D.C. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Service. Commitment. Dedication. Sacrifice. 

These are words that have deep meaning to the running community. They are also integral to the U.S. military service personnel, veteran, and civilian support community. 

On November 9, 2014 – in honor of Veteran’s Day - both communities will join together in two ways. First, funds raised at the Madison Marathon will benefit its charity partner, Badger Honor Flight. Second, the official race starter will be Sgt. Ross Gundlach (retired, US Marine Corps) and retired military service K9 Casey, who worked together as a team while serving in Afghanistan. 

Explaining that the spring Madison Marathon events were chosen to coincide with Memorial Day and fall events with Veteran’s Day, Madison Festivals Inc. president Rita Kelliher said, “We chose a charity that would bring attention to the military veterans.” 

Kelliher had personal experience with Badger Honor Flight, which serves 11 counties in Wisconsin as part of the nationwide Honor Flight network. Badger Honor Flight is dedicated to ensuring that WWII, Korean War, and terminally ill veterans from any war have the opportunity to see the memorials in Washington, D.C., that have been erected in their honor. Four flights a year bring veterans and one companion each to Washington, D.C., where they visit war memorials and monuments on the Mallway and in Arlington National Cemetery. All expenses are covered for the veterans in gratitude for their service, and their companions pay a $500 fee out of pocket. 

How many veterans has Badger Honor Flight served? According to president Brian Ziegler, “A total of 1,514 so far. Our goal is to take every WWII and Korean veteran [in the region who applies],” said Ziegler. Each flight takes approximately 85 to 80 veterans, and the waiting list is currently over 500 veterans. “We’re flying as fast as we can,” said Ziegler. 

Considering the advanced age of World War II veterans, speed is of the essence. But the planning stage for each flight is orderly, not rushed. “Our planning really starts once we receive a veteran’s application,” said Ziegler. Each application is reviewed and prioritized, with World War II and terminally ill veterans receiving top placement due to urgency. A medical advisory team of “a couple dozen” healthcare providers also reviews applications to ensure that the rigors of travel would not weigh too heavily on the veterans. Once a flight spot becomes available, veterans and companions (referred to as guardians) are re-contacted to confirm their interest, availability, and whether they feel capable of traveling. 

“There are tons of memories” from the flights, said Ziegler, recounting a trip in which a father and son were met at the World War II Memorial by the late Senator Daniel Inouye. Sen. Inouye was the second longest-serving senator in U.S. history, representing Hawaii in the Senate from 1962 until his death in 2012. “The Badger Honor Flight veteran and Senator Inouye had both been in the same hospital together” after being injured during World War II, said Ziegler. 

As memorable as the nation’s capital might be for veterans, the return trip is often the highlight. “It all culminates in the welcome home at the airport,” said Ziegler. “I had a veteran at this last flight tell me that all he was expecting was his wife to pick him up at the airport.” Instead, he was met at the airport by a crowd of 5,000 people cheering - plus a brass band. 

For Ziegler, those moments are where it all the effort comes together. “A lot of these veterans never got the welcome home that others did,” he said. “They never got the ticker tape parade.”

Sgt. Gundlach and Casey on duty. Photo courtesy of Ross Gundlach.

For Madison Marathon official race starter Sgt. Ross Gundlach, a homecoming after serving on active duty in Afghanistan felt hollow and incomplete without the companionship of his military service canine, Casey. 

The pair had worked together as an IED detection team, relying on the incomprehensible sensitivity of Casey’s nose to warn of danger from explosives. “She was one of the best,” said Gundlach. “I wouldn’t be talking to you…or possibly be alive,” had it not been for Casey’s acumen in identifying IEDs. The bond between handler and K9 was so strong that Gundlach promised his dog that he would find her again after they both returned stateside. 

Gundlach was a man of his word. “We were separated 333 days from the time that I got back from Afghanistan,” he said. At that point, the tables were turned: Gundlach had to detect the whereabouts of his partner, albeit relying on networking rather than nosework. He located her in Iowa where she had been acquired by the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office as an explosives detection service K9. 

Gundlach began a letter-writing campaign, explaining his commitment to his four-legged partner. Word spread to the Iowa Elk’s Association, a service group supporting veterans, who agreed to donate the $8,500 replacement cost for another service dog. Officials with the Fire Marshal’s Office then summoned Gundlach to the state Capitol in Des Moines for a surprise ceremony to reunite him with his beloved dog. When she saw Gundlach, Casey burst into a fury of joyful whimpering, tail-wagging, and face-licking. 

Today, Gundlach is a full-time student in Madison while he pursues a business degree. When not attending class, he cares for Casey. “I wake up, run together, we go to the park… Anything that’s not beneficial to her happiness I don’t do,” said Gundlach. 

As he cares for a K9 veteran, Gundlach is well aware of the work that Badger Honor Flight does to care for human veterans. “What they do is invaluable,” said Gundlach. “You’re talking about the greatest generation, and this particular war and the monument they’re going to see – people 70 and younger just can’t even imagine” the loss and sacrifices that occurred, particularly during World War II. “We owe it to them,” he said.

Gundlach and Casey will both be present at the start of the Madison Marathon to officially wish racers safe passage. 

He feels a kinship with runners, pointing out, “I can tell you running and the Marine Corps go hand in hand. If you weren’t a runner before you joined the Marines, well, you are now.” Standard training for dog handlers and their K9s is to run together five miles a day, five days a week. 

“The dogs will outrun the guys every time,” said Gundlach. 

The organizers of Madison Marathon encourage all participants to donate to Badger Honor Flight. A $5 donation can be made via cell phone by texting “FESTIVAL” to 20222.  Badger Honor Flight also needs energetic volunteers to assist with administration, medical, fundraising, and publicity to get the word out to get every veteran that wants to apply to go on a flight. For more information on volunteering with Badger Honor Flight, click here. 

- by Robyn M. Perrin

Madison Marathon Profile: Brent Kimbel and Bill Enright

If you’ve attended the Madison Marathon in the last few years, you may have seen Brent Kimbel (42) and Bill Enright (47) of Verona. They’re impossible to miss, because these gentlemen complete the entire race dressed head-to-toe as beer bottles. Their goal? To challenge others to have fun while they run. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked Brent and Bill—also known by their alter egos, “Mich” and “Ultra”—about why they run in such spectacularly unique style.

---

Mich and Ultra, otherwise known as Bill Enright (left) and Brent Kimbel (right), wave to fans during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Brent Kimbel gives a victory salute during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): Do you participate in other similar events? 
Brent: I've run 12 half or full marathons, at least 6 in costume, including the 2008 Ironman in Arizona, a couple of Half-IronMans (Racine and High Cliff), a few shorter triathlons (Capitol View), as well as the Haunted Hustle, the Green Bay Marathon, and the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathons.
Bill: Eleven for me including IronMan Wisconsin 2006 and 2009, Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, and a bunch of Half-Marathon and Adventure Races for years.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?  
Brent: Running in races such as this is a great way to put yourself in a very positive environment.  Everyone, racers and spectators alike, are out to have fun and are very encouraging to one another.  
Bill: It is the most healthy way to support our community events.

Bill Enright finishes strong at the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?  
Brent: When you run in a hometown race you see and run with a lot of your friends so it is more like a party. I also like that the half marathon is a springtime race [Editor’s note: the Half Marathon distance is now offered in both spring and fall]; it motivates you to get out and run after being locked up inside for such a long winter, especially this year.
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Bill: Brent and I make it a little more fun than your average racer! We started off running as Ketchup and Mustard (I was Mustard), finishing the race at the World Famous Brat Fest. Now that the event is sponsored by Budweiser, we dress up as beer bottles — Mich and Ultra.  
Brent: Many people we talk to come to the starting line with a goal of "just beating the beer bottles."  Luckily we're not super fast runners, so a lot of people walk away happy.  We have a lot of fun encouraging the other runners along the way too, especially first timers.  It's hard to think about the pain when you are joking around with guys who are cracking jokes.
Bill: We like to think that our presence has resulted in the fastest total combined times for any Half in the country. Just our comical presence motivates a lot of other runners — there is no way they will let themselves be beat by two dudes dressed up like anything. 

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon? 
Bill: Just DO IT!
Brent: It's a well-run, organized, enjoyable race. The fan support is terrific — the community really comes out to cheer everyone on.  It doesn't matter what time you finish in, just that you are giving it your all.
 
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know?  
Brent: When I stopped focusing on what my stopwatch read and just enjoyed the miles and the journey, running really became much more fun.  These days I don't even wear a watch.
Bill: If you are going to voluntarily do this to yourself you might as well make it fun.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Ashley Matthys

During her seventh grade year in her hometown of Zumbrota, MN, Ashley Matthys (now age 24) missed the deadline to sign up for the soccer team. She decided to run instead, sparking a fire of passion for the sport. Now, Ashley is looking forward to her first Madison Marathon this November. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about the Madison Marathon and why she chose this event as her first full marathon race. 

---

Ashley Matthys during the 2014 Madison Half Marathon (spring). Photo © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Ashley: This will be my first! I ran the half marathon in 2013 [and spring 2014]. Now I'm ready to take on 26.2.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Ashley:  I have run the Twin Cities Marathon and the Madison Half Marathon in 2013 [and 2014], as well as the Get Lucky half marathon in Minneapolis this spring.  I've run a number of shorter-distance races including the UW Valentine's Day 5K, the Crazylegs 8K, the Color Run, and the Ugly Sweater 5K.

ASHLEY'S PERSONAL STORY 
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Ashley: Once I started running, I never looked back, running cross country in high school and then for Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.  

Running has become my getaway, my stress relief. It's how I've met some of my best friends (and my boyfriend!) and the way I've made a lot of my favorite memories. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: With a gorgeous view of the lakes and the Capitol, why wouldn't I? Madison has been my home for the past year and a half. It's where I trained for my first marathon. I know the loops around both lakes very well. I've heard great reviews from friends who have run it in the past and I'm ready to try out the course for myself. I'm excited to tackle the full marathon this fall!
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Ashley: I train and run with Michelle, one of my best friends and a teammate from college, who's now at UW. Training would be so much harder without someone running alongside to help me push through those really hot or really cold days. We've gone on 20+ mile runs, early in the morning and really late at night, and covered miles all over the UW Arboretum, downtown, through campus, and on the East and West side. Running is how I've gotten familiar with the streets of Madison.
 
I appreciate the people who don crazy costumes for these events and provide much needed comic relief, but I stick to my comfort zone, wearing the same thing for every race - my lucky green shorts (green means go!) and my Luther College Norse alumni jersey.
 
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: Running a marathon is a blast. 'Fun' might not be the first word that comes to most people's minds when they think of pounding the pavement for hours (more likely it's "painful" or "exhausting") but it really is a great time. After logging countless hours of solitary miles, it's like the whole city shuts down to throw you a big party and celebrate your accomplishment. Spectators are such a crucial part of a race; there's a big running community here and many people supporting the participants. 

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that we should know?
Ashley: I'm planning to run the Boston Marathon in 2015!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Anthony Garcia

Runner Anthony Garcia (26), Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, did not always think of himself as an athlete. "I was barely able to make three plays in touch football in college," he said – but Garcia decided to focus on his health and started running. After starting with fun runs, color runs, and mud runs, he got "pumped" for the first portion of the Conquer the Capitol challenge: completing both the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon back-to-back. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about the Madison Marathon and why he chose it as his first long-distance race. 

---

Anthony's Personal Story

On May 24, Anthony Garcia ran the Madison Marathon Twilight 10K, racing through the downtown streets at nightfall. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Paul McMahon

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Anthony: I love the competition of the race — not just against other runners but against your own mind. Being able to break through the barrier of your mind telling you to slow down or stop is a great feeling.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? What are a few of your favorites?
Anthony:  I've done the Warrior Dash in Illinois, Beach Dash in Chicago, and Color Run in Milwaukee as fun runs. The Warrior Dash was my favorite because of the combination of challenging obstacles and mud. I also did the Lucky Leprechaun 7k and Frostbite 5k, here in Wisconsin, and I travel to Iowa annually to do the Bix 7 race with family.

A mere twelve hours later, Garcia raced the Madison Half Marathon, finishing strong under a warm early summer sky. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Anthony: What makes it special? My co-workers who have run the Madison Half Marathon before had mentioned that it is a challenge because of the hills. I was interested in a good challenge for my first half marathon. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Anthony:  I've been racing with my co-workers — it adds another level of competition and some bragging rights around the office.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Anthony: The "Conquer the Capitol" — a back-to-back 10K twilight run and half marathon in the spring, and a full marathon in the fall —offers a great opportunity to push yourself. The two back-to-back races took all I had; perhaps next year I will add the fall marathon and truly conquer the capitol.

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share? 
Anthony: I never would have thought I could become a runner. In college I was over 300 pounds. After graduation I began focusing on my health and getting into better shape. Now over 100 pounds lighter I'm pumped to challenge myself to complete. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Jan Hagen

Madison athlete Janet (Jan) Hagen, age 65, is an avid runner. Between 2000 and 2003 she completed a marathon in each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Hagen is headed for a triple-digit accomplishment: she will celebrate the completion of her 100th marathon when she crosses the Madison Marathon finish line on November 9th, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked Jan about her love of the sport.

---

Jan Hagen competing in the 2013 Lake Monona 20K race. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): You have completed four Madison Marathons. What other running events are your favorites?
Jan:  I have qualified for the Boston marathon and completed the race in 2012. Local favorites include:  Madison Mini Marathon, High Cliff Half-Ironman Triathlon, Green Lake (Ripon) Half Marathon, Silver Lake Triathlon, Lake Winneconne Triathlon, Chicago Half-Marathon, Wo Zha Wa Days Half Marathon, Syttende Mai 20 mile run, and Lake Monona 20K.

Jan Hagen's Personal Story

FFP: What does running in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Jan:  I enjoy setting fitness and wellness goals and the sense of accomplishment in achieving those goals.  

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Jan:  I have lived in Madison for over 30 years and have walked or run much of the marathon course at various times.  Running the Madison Marathon is a way to reflect on my past and the city's history and share in the excitement and energy of being a part of this great community. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Jan: I like to get in the spirit of a run on holidays and dress accordingly.  It is fun to see the creativity of other runners and the costumes they devise.  When I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2000 (it was held just before Halloween that year), a group of runners ran as a pumpkin: 8 runners together under a large orange canopy, each of them wearing a green “stem” hat. Now, that's teamwork in many senses of the word!!

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Jan: The Madison Marathon is special because it is a way to “showcase” the city to runners from other regions, states and countries.  It is a fun race, with a lot of variety and good crowd support.  

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Jan:  After completing my 100th marathon, I plan to continue running but in shorter distance races. Having been diagnosed with and successfully treated for thyroid cancer two years ago, and osteopenia and arthritis for the past several years, I am motivated to pursue a healthy lifestyle that includes running.  Once I can't run anymore, I plan to take up other fitness endeavors appropriate for my health status and hopefully inspire others to be more aware of how fitness contributes to a fulfilling lifestyle.

Jan's response to our questions included this inspirational quote:
"Winners are too busy to be sad, too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, too determined to be defeated."  - Anonymous

We salute Jan and all participants in the Fall Madison Marathon – whether the event is your first or 101st, we celebrate your accomplishment!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor