FocalShare Race Photos: There’s an App for That

Whether you’re running your first 5K, are a seasoned triathlete, or have been training for a multi-day charity bike ride for months, every race you do is a story. And that story is illustrated by your race photo. Sometimes it’s the drama of dedicating ALL of your energy to the course. Sometimes it’s the sheer triumph of finishing. Often it’s a commemoration of the freedom that comes from getting out there and living life to the fullest. In the end, is there anything better than sharing that story with your friends, family, and loved ones so they can experience the joy of race day?

That’s why we offer FocalShare™ free digital race photos, which are provided by many of the event clients we serve. FocalShare events include free digital downloads of your photos. As photographers, we view your ability to easily access and share your photos as critical. So for the past eight months, we’ve been working on a brand-new solution: the FocalShare™ iOS app. 

“A large proportion of participants in races we serve are accessing their FocalShare photos on iOS devices,” says Clint Thayer, co-founder of Focal Flame Photography. “Developing an app to empower racers to easily find and share their images right from their devices made sense to us, both as technophiles and photographers. We’re incredibly excited to offer the FocalShare app.” 

To install the app, click here or search the App Store on your device for Focal Flame or FocalShare. The app is free; just tap to download. 

Once you install the app, you’ll be able to access photos from recent FocalShare events. Click on individual galleries to explore, or enter your bib number to find your photos. 

After you find your photo, click on the “download” icon (which looks like a box with an arrow pointing upward) at the top right of the screen to view options for using your FocalShare photo. If you have the Facebook or Twitter app installed on your device, you can choose to share to those platforms with a single click. Otherwise you can choose to send your FocalShare image as a text message, in an email, save it to your device, and more. 

Perhaps you want to search for all photos of yourself, but you’ve forgotten your bib number. Not a problem: if you find one image of yourself in an event gallery, when you select that image, you’ll see “Search for bib XXXX” at the bottom of the image. The app is smart enough to detect all bibs numbers in a photo. Click the text to conduct a search for all images from the gallery with the same bib number.

What if you want to select and share multiple images? Also not a problem: in the gallery of interest, click “Select” on the upper right corner, then tap each photo you want to share. (When they’re selected, you’ll see a blue check mark next to the image.) Then tap on the “download” icon on the upper left corner of the screen to proceed. 

The FocalShare app was developed by a fellow racer, Glenda Adams of Maverick Software. “As an iOS app developer, I was intrigued by the technological possibilities of how FocalShare race photos could be used. As a runner myself, I knew how helpful it would be to have one-click access to my photos so I could show them to friends and family. Working on this app was both intellectually fulfilling, and really meaningful to me as a runner. I hope you enjoy it!” 

Additional resources:
FAQs about the FocalShare™ iOS App
Description – FocalShare™ iOS App

Madison Marathon: A Race Story Rendered in Metal

This photo from the 2014 Fall Madison Marathon was used to create the 2015 finisher's medal. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Credit: Clint Thayer

Marathon training is a surreal journey into oneself, with a defined endpoint. 

After months of straining sinews, after countless hours flying across pavement (and countless more hours that did not resemble flight but a sensation unmistakably earthbound), after discovering that searing lungs and budding blisters have become a daily and normal occurrence, and after reaching the unsurpassed peace that occurs when all mental chatter is replaced by footfall after footfall, there is the finish line. 

And after the finish line, there is the medal.

For many runners the weight of a race medal is measured not in ounces, but in fortitude. It is a talisman that is earned, not given. And it can hold tremendous significance, representing a full range of experiences from elation for the sheer joy of good health to dark moments of self-doubt.   

Explaining the significance of race medals, Columbus, Ohio runner Chris Zawodniak says, “They are a reflection of the serious commitment that running a marathon involves. It's a great feeling to get that medal and hear congratulations after crossing the finish line.” 

Colleen Deatsman of Mason, Michigan displays dozens of finisher medals in her home next to signs reminding her to “Live, Love, Laugh, and Move.” Through long-distance running, she says, “I’ve learned to not only survive, but thrive, with fibromyalgia for over 25 years.” 

Cross Plains, Wisconsin athlete Debra Vaughan says, “My medals are hung on the wall on our bedroom. They remind me of where I have been, what I have accomplished, and what I can do. They act as a mental photo album because each one has a story.”   

Always Advancing, a finisher medal sculpting company, converted the image to a medal design. 

But what happens when the finisher’s medal actually is a “photo album”? For the 2015 Fall Madison Marathon, it is both. This year’s race medal is a sculpted version of an actual photograph taken at the 2014 Madison Marathon. 

The original image, captured by Focal Flame photographer and founder Clint Thayer, shows a group of runners in profile against the Wisconsin State Capitol. A runner in the foreground is suspended in mid-air just prior to footfall. Several athletes wear caps to protect against the dawn’s chill, even though all are clad in shorts. A tree at upper right is decked in copper-hued leaves. 

Step 2: 3-dimensional features are added to the medal. Photo courtesy Always Advancing

Madison Marathon race organizers felt that the image exemplified essential elements of the event: the season, the supportive crowd lining the fence, the elegant formal architecture of the Capitol, and the exuberance of runners. 

So they worked with Morrisville, Pennsylvania-based company Always Advancing, which rendered it as a 3-dimensional sculpted medallion with enamel accents. The manufacturing process allowed metalworkers to create a bas relief in miniature, adding depth and dimension to the image and then refining the sculpture. 

The authenticity of the medal reflects the down-to-earth nature of the Madison Marathon itself. The “hardware” is a reflection of reality, and a piece of Madison that each runner can actually hold in their hands after they cross the finish line. 

Step 3: Sculpting creates a bas relief version of the image. Photo courtesy Always Advancing.

“To think that one of our images has been immortalized in metal and will be placed on the shoulders of each Madison Marathon finisher is amazing,” said Thayer. “Our goal has always been to create images that would have lasting value in the world. Seeing this photograph  translated to sculpture is wonderful.” 

As race day approaches, the Focal Flame Photography team is gearing up to capture thousands more lasting moments throughout the course. We are filled with excited anticipation, and honored to witness the journey of thousands of runners. 

The final product awaits runners at the finish. Photo courtesy Madison Festivals Inc.

We’ll see you at the finish line.  

Focal Flame Photography is honored to serve as official photographers for the Madison Marathon. All runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Robyn Perrin

Madison Marathon Profile: Lisa Helmuth

The Madison Marathon is the perfect event for Lisa Diane Helmuth (50) of Middleton, WI—it combines running and Madison, two things that have been part of some of the happiest and some of the saddest times of Lisa’s life. For Lisa, “there is nothing quite like the feeling of running in Madison”. 

Lisa Helmuth during the 2015 spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2015 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Katie Richard

Lisa shared what makes the Madison Marathon so special for her, how running has helped her through some of the most challenging moments of her life, and what—or maybe more aptly who—keeps motivating her to succeed.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?  
Lisa Diane Helmuth (LDH): This is my third or fourth half-marathon Madison race.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?  
LDH: This will be my 7th half marathon…2016 will be my first full marathon!

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
LDH: I usually sign up for at least one or two half marathons per summer and participate in as many fun runs as possible throughout the warmer weather. I pick races that have a positive impact on the world through fundraising or awareness for families / kids dealing with illness or hardship.

Some of my favorites are Battle of the Badges 5K (Middleton Police/Fire/EMS charity), Badger Children’s Cancer Network (5K) Superhero Run, Gilda’s Run (10K), Make-A-Wish Foundation (10K), and Middleton Good Neighborfest (5K).

I signed up for the Surf City Half Marathon in California in February to force myself to keep running in Wisconsin’s freezing winter this year! 

James Helmuth with father (Jeff) and older brother (Jack). Photo courtesy of Lisa Helmuth.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? 
LDH: Madison is my home—it’s where I married, had children, lost two children (one miscarriage), and where my heart will always remain. I love the crazy artsy unique nature of the city and its neighborhoods, yet this place still retains a rural backdrop, clean air, a casual lifestyle amidst the excitement of a larger metropolitan area. The seat of our state government resides here…and I am grateful to work [to protect] our rivers, lakes, wetlands, springs, and wild places.
Editor’s Note: Lisa works for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

FFP: Do you do anything to make your races more meaningful? 
LDH: Preparing for long-distance races involves a special mindset—meditative introspection on what and why I’m about to embark on such a physically and mentally exhausting journey. I am not a fast runner; just very determined. Long distance races give me the mind-space that I need to feel deeply and completely about life.

A brilliant smile from James Helmuth, whose life ended far too soon due to adrenal cancer. To learn about the James Helmuth Memorial Trust, click here.  Photo courtesy of Lisa Helmuth.

FFP: Why is running so important to you?
LDH: I’ve been running since I was 12. Running has helped me through more personal challenges than I can name. Most recently, in 2012, my youngest son’s diagnosis with stage four adrenal cancer provided the impetus needed to return to long-distance running, which is where I feel my inner-self blossom, where I find peace, and where I can feel myself come alive. It is thinking about what running means to me, and what it gives me, that helps me prepare for my 2 to 3 hour “date” with a half marathon…and in 2016, the 4-6 hours for my first marathon. 

FFP: What do you want people to know about your son James and/or the James Helmuth Memorial Trust?
LDH: When we first created James’ Benefit Fund/Memorial Trust, which provides funds for academics and athletics for kids in need, it was to help make something good from such incredible tragedy. I now realize that perpetuating charitable activities through his fund not only helps others, but it helps our family keep James’ memory alive with us and with the community.  I have come to realize that one of my greatest fears is that one day no one will know of or remember our James. The quintessential struggle of humanity—the quest for immortality.

Through James’ Benefit Fund, we are definitely making a difference. If James can see us or “knows”, I want him to feel proud of his family. In the past three years, we have raised and funded nearly $20,000 in short and long-term projects, including relief efforts for families with children that are victims of fire, Music & Arts for All (which joins teenage musicians with homebound/facility-bound seniors through weekly music performances), funding of kids in need in athletics (football, basketball), and our holding our annual Basketball Buddies Skills Clinic, which pairs athletes in college and high school with middle school and primary grades for a 1 hour skills clinic! It’s wonderful! We had over 80 participants in each of the first two years of the event! The Middleton Basketball Club and Dane County Youth Football League have both been particularly helpful.

Lisa celebrates finishing the spring 2015 Madison Half Marathon. She also ran the Twilight 10K the evening beforehand, a combination called "Conquer the Capitol." © 2015 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Shannon Lund

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you are particularly proud of?
LDH: This past summer I received my black belt in martial arts at Infinity Martial Arts in Middleton after 6 years of training. I had put off training for two years to care for my son, James, who died of adrenal cancer at the age of 10. During his year of treatment, I reacquainted myself with my lifelong friend, running. While I’d been running since I was 12 years old, after having kids I’d slowed down quite a bit. Now, at 50, I’m rededicating myself to health and fitness…in part to honor my sons, James and Jack. Receiving my black belt was a gift and an honor for James’ memory—and to show my wonderful 15-year-old son Jack to never give up. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and eventually you will find your way.

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?
LDH: Just that I keep going…I’m slower and older than when I was 12 (!) and don’t always feel great, but I can always count on running, my life-long friend, to be there when I need what it gives me. I will run until I can no longer run—I’ll be running until I’m done here on Earth.

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 runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Stephanie Sprague

After a serious car accident in May 2015, doctors told Stephanie Sprague (25) of Dubuque, Iowa that she’d be in the hospital for the next four months, and even then things were unlikely to be “normal” for her. Remarkably, Stephanie beat those odds, leaving the hospital in just 4 weeks and making a full recovery. In fact, Stephanie has gone beyond just recovering—she will be ready to run her first Madison Marathon this November.

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, talked to Stephanie about her road to recovery what she learned along the way about her own incredible strength.

Stephanie with significant other, Bryan. Stephanie shared, "He has been a huge supporter through this whole process and my stronger half when I felt too weak to be able to make it through some days." Photo credit: Dale Sprague

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Stephanie Sprague (SS): This will be the 1st one!

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run? 
SS: Two.

FFP: Have you participated in other similar events? 
SS: Yes, a few of my favorites are the Dominate Dubuque Series, the Heritage Trail Race, the Benefit Classic, the Grandview Gallop, and the Turkey Trot.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you are particularly proud of? 
SS: Simply being here and being able to run.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you? 
SS: This past year has taught me to not take anything for granted. I was by no means an avid runner previously, but being able to push through life’s obstacles and strive to become an even better runner than I was before is a gift in itself. Not only is the Madison Marathon a gift for me, I will be running it with my father who has had his own life struggles and just started running at the age of 53.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you pick the Madison Marathon? 
SS: Timing is the most important thing in my recovery right now. The Madison Marathon is just over 5 months from the day of my accident. Doctors told me that I would be in the hospital for at least 3 months and may not have my “normal” life back. The fact that I am able to participate in this year’s Madison Marathon is a miracle.

The seriousness of Stephanie's vehicular collision is apparent. This is her vehicle. Photo credit: Dale Sprague

FFP: Can you tell us what it has been like to train/prepare for a marathon after recovering from the accident?  
SS: Memorial Day weekend I went off a gravel country road and rolled my vehicle several times. I was unconscious and trapped in my vehicle for over 3 hours before someone noticed my vehicle and called for help. I remember waking up in the hospital 4 days later. Miraculously, I did not suffer a single broken bone. I had some severe internal injuries, but nothing that would be life threatening. After the doctors initially said I would be in the hospital for at least 3 months, I was discharged after 4 weeks thanks to my health and physical shape prior to my accident. I had been running and doing Farrell’s kickboxing regularly prior to my accident. I can give huge thanks to the impact running had on my physical health, which led to a much faster recovery! One of my more crucial injuries was my right side abdominal wall was detached from my spine and was essentially torn to shreds from my seat belt. During training, this has been the hardest obstacle. You really don't realize how much you use your core muscles until they have been compromised. I have had to make sure I have had very low impact training on top of doing a lot of core muscle strength training with a stability ball.

Despite all odds, Stephanie pursued a full recovery with an infectiously positive attitude that she's carrying with her toward the Madison Marathon finish line. Photo credit: Dale Sprague

FFP: What will it mean to participate in November's race?  
SS: It will mean that anything is possible if you put your mind and heart to it. I also would like to emphasize that being in good physical health prior to my accident has helped made this race that much more possible.

FFP: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?
SS: Just to maintain good health, as you never know when it may help save your life.

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 runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Profile: Carolyn Moore

Carolyn (right) runs as a sighted guide in partnership with Maria (left), who is visually impaired. Photo credit: Steve Moore

Carolyn Moore (49) of Grayslake, IL is a seasoned marathon runner who will be running the Madison Marathon for the first time this November. When Carolyn crosses the finish line on the capitol square, she won’t be alone—her running partner, a visually impaired athlete, will accompany her.

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, talked to Carolyn about providing “eyes” to a blind runner.
 

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Carolyn Moore (CM): This will be my first Madison Marathon.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
CM: I have run 34 marathons.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
CM: [I'm] primarily a marathon runner, but I also run half marathons and the occasional 5K.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments you would like to mention?
CM: My personal best marathon time is 3 hours and 30 minutes.
 

Carolyn looks forward to competing in her first-ever Madison Marathon on November 8, running as a guide alongside her running partner. Photo credit: Adam Kissinger

FFP: Why did you decide to participate in the Madison Marathon?
CM: I chose the Madison Marathon because of its reputation of being a beautiful, scenic course.  I am also hoping for cooler temps in early November.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about running a marathon?
CM: Enjoy the journey; take in the scenery and the sights and sounds of race day.

FFP: Can you tell us about your experience running as a guide for a visually impaired athlete?
CM: I have been guiding a blind athlete for just over a year. We met at a local adult track club through a mutual friend/guide. We usually run 2-3 times a week and we have done a variety of races from 5Ks to the Boston Marathon. I enjoy sharing my love of running with the blind athlete that I guide. As a mom, I understand the importance of a little "me" time and I am happy that I can provide her with an opportunity to run outside.
Editor’s Note: Achilles International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing athletes with disabilities, including visually impaired athletes, with a community of support. Runners who are interested in serving as a sighted guide or who are interested in partnering with a guide can search for local Achilles International chapters here. 

FFP: Having run over 30 marathons, what have you learned on your journey as a runner?
CM: About 10 years ago after a back injury ended my running season in an instant, I learned to never take my ability to run for granted. My experience as a guide for a blind athlete has also taught me to appreciate my ability to run as not everyone has the freedom to put on a pair of shoes and head out the door whenever they want.  

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 runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Madison Marathon Profile: Wayne Engelbrecht

For the past 10 years, Wayne Engelbrecht (46) of Sun Prairie has volunteered at the Madison Marathon, spending the most recent race weekends manning the info booth. This November, Wayne will not only be in his usual volunteer spot, but also will be on the race course running his fifth Madison Marathon.

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, spoke to Wayne about what he enjoys most about the Madison Marathonó both from the perspective of a runner and of a dedicated volunteer. 
 

Wayne Enbelbrecht runs the 2014 Madison Fall Marathon. He has volunteered to help support the race for the past 10 years. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Austin Cope

Focal Flame (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Wayne Engelbrecht (WE): This will be my fifth Madison Marathon.  I ran the first two in the 1990s, and the last two years.

FFP: How many total marathons or half marathons have you run?
WE: This will be my 10th marathon since 2011, and my 16th overall.  I've run about 6 or 7 half marathons per year since 2011 as well.

FFP: Do you participate in any other similar events? 
WE: I like running in races with my dog - the longest race we've have done together is the 20K Lake Monona Run the last two years.  I enjoy night races, such as the Twilight 10K.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
WE: I enjoy challenging myself.  I took some time off from running and returned to running in 2010.  As the Madison Marathon was the first marathon I ran, it is special as it is the marathon I have run most often.

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what do you enjoy about the Madison Marathon? 
WE: It's a well-run race.  It is a good size for a race - not too big.  The course runs through some of the best parts of Madison, such as the Arboretum and UW, and has nice crowd support.  There is always something special about running on your "home town course" as well.

FFP: Why has volunteering become an important part of your Madison Marathon experience?
WE: I've volunteered at the Madison Marathon for ten years - before I even ran in the races.  Iíve done everything from handing out t-shirts, chip check, signing up kids for the Kids Runs, packet assembly and expo set up.  The last three years I've settled in to helping out at the info booth.  The Madison Marathon supports many charities, such as the Badger Honor Flight.  My time goes towards funding the Sun Prairie and Cottage Grove Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society.  As my mother-in-law battled cancer for over fifteen years before passing away, it is very important cause for my family and I'm honored that my time can be used to support such a worthy cause.  

Editor's Note: The official charities of the Madison Marathon are Badger Honor Flight and myTEAM TRIUMPH.

FFP: What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
WE: I greatly enjoy helping out at the info booth, as I can provide information about the race that only someone who has run it can provide to other runners who have never run a marathon before, and have relief at having their questions answered.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
WE: Enjoy the day.  The race should be viewed as the victory lap in your journey of competing in the marathon.  Don't go out too fast - that's why I always start at the end of the race. You will have a great race.

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 runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

Madison Marathon Profile: Abbey Kaiser

This photo of Abbey finishing the Twilight 10K in May 2015 recently appeared in New York City as part of the National Down Syndrome Society's Times Square Video presentation—an annual photo showcase of the amazing contributions and achievements of people with Down syndrome. © 2015 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Abbey Kaiser is a young runner from Madison who just happens to have Down syndrome. Last May, Abbey completed not just one but two Madison Marathon events—the Twilight 10K and, the very next morning, the half-marathon as a captain with her myTEAM TRIUMPH angels. While this would be an impressive feat for any athlete, when Abbey crosses the finish line, she also is showing the world the amazing things that people with Down syndrome can achieve. Her joy shines through in a Focal Flame race photo from the Twilight 10K that was selected to be displayed in Times Square in New York City in September, 2015 for a showcase on behalf of the National Down Syndrome Society.

Focal Flame Photography, the official photographer for the 2015 Madison Marathon events, talked to Abbey and her mom Danielle about Abbey’s accomplishments.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How long have each of you been runners?
Abbey Kaiser (AK): One year this month!
Danielle Kaiser (DK): I never consider myself a runner because life gets in the way too much for me to do so with any regularity! But over the past year I've tried to [run] with increasing regularity and have made more of a point of trying to achieve some miles versus no miles at all.

FFP: Do you usually run together? 
AK: I've ran twice with my mom. She got me started. We did the Haunted Hustle, then the Twilight 10K. We will be at the Haunted Hustle again. Watch for us! I try to practice with my mom a little too.

FFP: What other events have you done?
AK: myTEAM Triumph has included me in the spring half marathon, which was early the next morning after the Twilight 10K! Then I did the HER Half Marathon, which was all ladies. Then I got to do the Pardeeville Triathalon because my half marathon Angel Eric asked me to! Then I did the Door County Tri, which is a half Ironman! The August half marathon was my most recent race.

Editor’s Note: Abbey participates in myTEAM Triumph, an athletic mentoring program that supports individuals with disabilities in endurance events. Abbey has completed seven endurance races with the group.

FFP: Are there other races you'd like to run? 
AK: A full marathon and the full Ironman!

FFP: What do you like most about running? 
AK: I like the people! I like the volunteers who help give out water and Gu! The cheering helps too. Like I like to say, "Cheer louder”! I love looking up on the wall and seeing my medals."

The National Down Syndrome Society seeks to raise awareness of the amazing accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome through their Time Square video presentation. The image of Abbey running the Twilight 10K was one of 450 chosen to promote the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome.

FFP: How have you been involved with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)? What do you want others to know about the organization?
DK: I have been involved with NDSS for about five years. A small staff in Washington and a national network of volunteer advocates work on issues that are pertinent to people with Down syndrome but affect others with disabilities. The advocacy being done in Washington D.C. affects not only the lives of Abbey and others sharing a Down syndrome diagnosis, but are much larger issues. Over the past several years, NDSS advocates have lobbied for the ability for individuals with disabilities to have savings accounts. It sounds very simple but there were surprisingly low limits to the amount of savings one could have if they utilized disability benefits. Congress passed the ABLE (Achieving A Better Life Experience) Act late in 2015. The simple right to save for needs is a reality advocates worked on for years that will affect many. Next, our nationwide volunteers will work with police forces to ensure first responders are trained and know how to respond to meet the needs of individuals with developmental and other disabilities.

NDSS also makes sure at least once a year to celebrate people with Down syndrome. NDSS shows on a big scale that people with Down syndrome are amazing, and contribute great value to their families, their communities, and make contributions that have positive impacts.

Editor’s Note: October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. To learn what you can do to celebrate and raise awareness, visit the National Down Syndrome Society website. 

FFP: What do you want others to know about living with Down syndrome?
DK: There are things that make Abbey exceptional. Some of them are the same as what makes people reading this exceptional, and some are different. But we all have a heart and feelings and passions and things that move us! We all need a little help sometimes. People with Down syndrome are more like you and I than different. People are just people. We are all unique. Invite someone in. Get to know each other. Care about each other. You are the key to make a difference, and someone else - quite likely a person with Down syndrome, maybe even Abbey - can make a difference in you!

AK: People can treat people with Down syndrome with respect and kindness. People should treat us as the same as them, not different. People with disabilities like to do the same things. I do yoga! I love One Direction! And concerts. And playing music! So let's have fun together!

To get to know Abbey better, follow her on Twitter @abbeysupnotdown.

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 runners will receive free FocalShare™ digital race photos courtesy of the event organizers. The Fall Madison Marathon events will occur on November 8, 2015 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Erin Patterson

Water Stories: A Brief History of Lake Mendota Swim Crossings

This article was written in 2010 at the request of Madison, Wisconsin ultra-distance athlete Darren Fortney. As an athlete with a remarkable story to tell, Darren was a recipient of the Focal Flame Honoring the Athlete award. The prize included a photo essay and custom-commissioned article. 

Each year, Darren leads a group of swimmers in a 6-mile swim traversing Lake Mendota as a fund-raising effort for Gilda’s Club, a cancer support and advocacy organization. As a history buff, he wanted to place the ultra-swim in historical context. Focal Flame co-founder Robyn Perrin interviewed a local boat captain and historian, Donald Sanford, whose book “On Fourth Lake: The Social History of Lake Mendota” is scheduled to be released in August, 2015. Sanford gave permission for some of his research on “lake swimmers”, as he calls them, to be included in this article. Additionally, Robyn interviewed local Madison resident Joe Silverberg, who swam the lake in the mid-1940s, when he was 16. We hope you enjoy the stories they shared and invite you to cheer on the 2015 Gills for Gilda’s swimmers - who will take on the lake once again on June 19, 2015, having raised nearly $8,000 dollars to support cancer patients and their families. 

Hydrogeographic map of Lake Mendota, 1900

To learn the history of Lake Mendota is to pay homage to ice. Not the foot and a half of ice that caps it on average every winter, but the massive glacial sheets that birthed the lake during the “Wisconsin Stage” of Pleistocene glaciation, beginning about 50,000 years ago. Over the span of nearly 38,000 years, glaciers scraped across a 600-foot-deep river valley. The Yahara River flowed underneath. Advancing and retreating again and again, the edge of the glacier scraped out hollows in the landscape, scuffing out four lake beds like a child digging its toes into the dirt.

One of the lake beds was later named “Mendota” by the Ho-Chunk tribe, which is reported to mean “The Lake Where the Indian Lies.” The name refers to a tribal story in which the lake was created by the splashing of a Ho-Chunk brave who turned into a spirit fish, then joined a maiden in the largest of the Four Lakes.

Throughout history, people living in the Yahara River region have been fascinated with Lake Mendota. At an average depth of 41.7 feet and reaching a maximum of 83 feet deep, it is a substantial yet intimate inland body of water. Edged with multiple bluffs, bays, points, rivers and creeks, and punctuated with Governor's Island, it is laced with opportunities for close inspection despite its size. 

Generations of Madison residents have done just that – exploring, boating, fishing, rowing, and watching the lake. But in spending the past five years researching Lake Mendota history, local boat captain Donald Sanford also kept coming across accounts of people who had sought an even more personal communion with lake – by swimming across it. He started referring to these individuals as “Lake Swimmers“ and began keeping track of news reports dating to the late 1800s. 

Wisconsin State Journal, August 6, 1930

Many of the reported lake swimmers were adolescents - perhaps a reflection of teenagers' curiosity, access to leisure time in the summer, and their youthful athleticism. Summer camps lining Lake Mendota surely played a role as well. Camp Indianola was a private boy's camp operating from 1906 until 1967 located at what is now Governor Nelson State Park. A meticulously detailed 1910 catalog advertising the camp assured parents, “Every boy is taught to paddle a canoe, row a boat, and swim....last season there were a number of excellent swimmers in camp. One of our boys made a record swim of five and one half miles. A number of others swam one, two, and three miles.“ Public swimming in the lakes, however, had only been acceptable for generation or so by that time, as swimming was illegal in Madison until 1879.

Colorful lake swimmer characters include "Dr. Joe Dean," likely the same Joseph Dean who founded the Dean Clinic in 1904 that would later become Dean HMO, who swam Mendota in 1899. Later, James “Jimmy“ Julian, captain of the swim team at Central High School (which was later demolished to make way for expansion of the University of Wisconsin) traversed the lake several times in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Mina Fox, a visiting student from Chicago, swam from Bernards Park to Adams Hall in 1930, only to be accused afterwards of faking the swim by skeptical reporters. (She responded indignantly.) 

Another notable duo were Charley Bran, the only person reported to have swum the entire shoreline perimeter of Lake Mendota, and his son Stan Bran, who attempted to repeat his father's feat 10 years afterward in 1939 but was unsuccessful due to conditions. Longtime Madison residents may remember Stan Bran as the host of the television show Outdoor Calling, which ran on Channel 15 for 29 years. 

Interestingly, a rash of swim crossings occurred during the Great Depression in the 1930s, which Sanford attributes to the lure of cheap outdoor recreation during hard economic times, and perhaps the universal appeal of meeting an individual challenge when so many lives were in turmoil.

The most remarkable story is that of Peter Foseid, who was reported to have swum a five-mile course from Tenney Park to Camp Indianola in 1930. The Capital Times reported that Foseid had had his leg amputated eight inches below the hip in 1921 following an injury incurred in a football game. A junior at UW and counselor at Camp Wakanda, Foseid reportedly followed his five-mile swim by playing a baseball game, for which he donned his wooden leg. If his reported swim time is indeed accurate, his pace of 1.70 min per 100 yards is the fastest of any other lake swimmer profiled in news accounts. He also swam across the lake on at least one other occasion, in 1932.

YMCA Camp Wakanda Swimmers, June, 1945 

One Madison resident, Joe Silverberg, was happy to share his memories of his Lake Mendota swim crossings in the mid-1940s. Joe Silverberg traversed the lake in 1946 at the age of 16, and two years later his sister Sally completed the same distance. When asked if either he or his sister swam competitively in high school, Silverberg said, "No - we were water rats. We just swam for recreation. We all lived on Sherman Avenue, and of course the lake was our recreation during the summer."

Although it became a family tradition, Silverberg stated that his own swim crossing was not pre-planned. “One day the lake was dead calm, and we [Silverberg and two friends] decided we should swim across the lake. But for the last half of the swim, a wind from the north kicked up and so I was fighting against it the rest of the day.“ He continued, “The moral of the story is that it's much better planning if you swim on a day when there's a south wind.“

Joe was accompanied by a friend in a rowboat, and he later rowed with his sister during her swim, a safety measure that both siblings deemed essential. When asked about the most memorable part of his own lake crossing, though, his thoughts turned to the most basic of athletic needs: nutrition. “The person in the rowboat fed us along the way - Hershey bars - which is exactly the wrong thing to do,“ he said. Laughing, he explained, “In those days we thought that eating chocolate gave you instant energy. We've since found out that it doesn't.“

Caption on a photo dated July, 1955, reads, "Tia Nelson, 11, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Russell Nelson...dives into Lake Mendota. She was one of Madison's most outstanding young swimmers."

Silverberg's tone grew quieter as he talked about the pollution that has since befallen Lake Mendota, and offered an explanation. He speculated that development of the private, artificial Lake Cherokee in the 1950s drained the marsh land that was within and near the Yahara River, preventing absorption of agricultural runoff from the dairy lands north of Madison. The result was effluent flowing into the lake, both polluting it and triggering algal blooms.

Water quality remains a tremendous issue for Lake Mendota, as well as the three other lakes in the region. But while pollution and preservation of healthy lake ecology will continue to be a challenge well into the future, the timeless pull of Mendota will surely persist and compel residents to treasure it.

And, of course, to swim across it.

Girls on the Run: One in a Million

In the photography industry, numbers tell a story. They tell a story of aperture, ISO, shutter speed, processing time for an editing workflow, select rate, downloads, and for digital photography even the magical aspect of translating a visual story through the 1s and 0s of a binary machine language. 

For Girls on the Run, numbers tell a story as well. They tell a story of empowerment, and impact, and engagement. They tell of a generation transformed through movement, joy, and conversation. And this year, they mark one million girls served by Girls on the Run International.

Focal Flame is indescribably proud to have served local chapter of Girls on the Run (GOTR) since 2011. So, as we celebrate the “one in a million” (or #M1LLION) campaign by the national organization, we’d like to take a moment to share the story of Girls on the Run-Dane County, by the numbers:  

• Date Girls on the Run Dane County was founded: October 27, 2004. (National organization founded in 1996)
• First season for Girls on the Run-Dane County: 13 girls
• Number of girls served by GOTR-Dane County since then: over 6,000
• Number of volunteer coaches: over 1,500
• Number of teams: 360
• Number of Dane County sites for Girls on the Run: 65
• Grades served: 3rd through 5th (Girls on the Run), 6th through 8th (Girls on Track)
• Scholarships awarded by GOTR-Dane County: over $175,000
• GOTR-Dane County race photos taken by Focal Flame Photography: over 18,000

Keep the numbers, and the smiles, going - join us for the spring Girls on the Run Dane County 5K on June 6, 2015 at McKee Farms Park in Fitchburg, WI, volunteer, or donate!

- by Robyn M. Perrin

Take Two: the Wisconsin Du Series

Love the idea of multisport, but not so into swimming? Or perhaps you’re a triathlete seeking a great dry land race? Check out the Wisconsin Du Series, a season-long fling with just two things – biking and running. With races from June to October and locations in south-central and southeastern Wisconsin, the series offers a beautiful way to explore the state and some great competitive experiences. 

Focal Flame Photography is honored to offer free FocalShare™ race photos at all Wisconsin Du Series events produced by Tick Tock Timing. To learn more about the series and its kickoff event, the Cooney Duathlon on Saturday, May 23, 2015, we caught up with Paul Eicher of Tick Tock Timing.

Focal Flame Photography: For those who have never done a duathlon before, what should they expect from the Wisconsin Du Series races?
Paul Eicher/Tick Tock Timing: They should expect a fun, safe and challenging multisport event - A professionally produced race with a big event mentality and a hometown feel.

FFP: How does the points system work for this series? 
TTT: The Wisconsin DU Series consists of 5 Duathlons throughout the spring, summer and fall months in the Milwaukee and Madison area. Coveted series point are awarded following each event, and championship awards are presented at the end of the series. The first place male and female receive the total amount of allotted points for the race, with points descending for each place thereafter. Details on the series rules can be found on our series info page on our website. 

FFP: What is the course like for the Cooney Duathlon? 
TTT: The Cooney Duathlon course includes a 2 mile flat and fast out-and-back run with music at the turn around point, a 20 mile bike course with rolling hills, and another 2 miles of running. This provides great opportunities to see fellow competitors pushing themselves before smiling your way through to the finish line for the camera. It’s a good course to test your limits and push yourself harder than you normally might for a longer event. 

FFP: How can experienced athletes leverage the Wisconsin Du Series as part of their competitive season? 
TTT: A duathlon has the same fun and thrilling atmosphere as a triathlon but without the cold swim. It’s a challenging event but offers a great way for new multisport athletes to get into the sport. Some athletes use duathlon series races as more of a "training race" to get a GREAT workout in and practice race specific skills before other "A" races in their season. Other athletes use duathlon series races as their main focus to test themselves and push their bodies to the limits year-round. 

FFP: Any advice for those beginning multisport athletes who aren't familiar with bike-run or run-bike transitions? 
TTT: Yes, I have three tips for beginning multisport athletes who are not familiar with transitions. 
•    Practice makes perfect
•    Keep it simple 
•    Take your time
Don't be afraid to ask a friend or look online for help or to practice in your lawn before race day. You will be glad you did.

FFP: What makes the Wisconsin Du Series special? 
TTT: We welcome everyone with open arms into the Wisconsin Duathlon Series – speed-focused or fun-focused, all ages, young, male, female, experienced and beginners alike. We pride ourselves in putting on events for YOU and giving you the personal attention you deserve. Our mission is simple:  we help people have fun, get active, and smile. I believe that helps make the Duathlon series special, and we also set ourselves apart by offering the only Duathlon series in the area.

FFP: What else would you like participants to know?
TTT: A portion of every Duathlon series event registration goes to Team Marissa, a non-profit near and dear to our hearts. Team Marissa was founded to honor the amazing life of Marissa Lieblang, who lost her battle with cancer at the age of five. The purpose of Team Marissa is not only to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research but to help those families who are currently affected by childhood cancer. 

Additionally, during the Cooney Duathlon we will be announcing the news and opening up registration for the big new EPIC Duathlon series championship. Discounted pricing for the 2015 EPIC Duathlon will be offered to 2015 Cooney Duathlon participants. Check out our Facebook Page and website for news and updates.