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 - and will be pursuing her first Madison Marathon on November 8, 2015.
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 Moore is a seasoned marathon runner. She is pursuing her first-ever Madison Marathon in November, 2015. And when she crosses the finish line on the Capitol Square, she won’t be alone—her running partner, a visually impaired athlete, will accompany her.
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
Wayne Engelbrecht has volunteered at the Madison Marathon for the past decade - and also run in five different full Madison Marathons. His favorite volunteer spot? The information booth, answering questions from runners.
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.
Girls on the Run: One in a Million
In the photography industry, numbers tell a story. For Girls on the Run, numbers tell about a 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.
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
Madison Marathon and myTEAM TRIUMPH: Everyone Wins
The Madison Marathon is for everyone - which is why the relationship between the race and its partner, myTEAM TRIUMPH, is so significant. myTEAM TRIUMPH pairs physically-challenged and able-bodied racers. Learn more about myTEAM TRIUMPH and how the Madison Marathon supports its work.
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: Greg B.
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 in 2014 when he proposed to his girlfriend after running the race.
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: Emily Kurian
Emily Kurian, age 30, will defend her title in the Madison Marathon on November 9, 2014. Wife and training partner of accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian, Emily is drawn to running as a healthy lifelong activity. Emily and Joe competed in the 2014 NYC Marathon on November 2, 2014 - a mere 1 week before the Madison Marathon.
Running is a family affair for Emily Kurian (age 30) of Madison, Wisconsin. Her journey as a runner started at a young age when her older brothers joined the junior high cross country team. She followed in their footsteps. As wife of IronMan and accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian (winner of the 2006 Madison Marathon), Emily continues to race with the ultimate goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a lifelong runner. She holds the title for 1st place woman in the 2013 Madison Marathon. Emily and husband Joe competed in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 2, 2014.
Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.
Emily Kurian and husband Joe Kurian celebrate at the Rock 'N Roll Marathon in St. Louis. Photo credit; David Mari
Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Emily Kurian: I have run the Madison Half Marathon and Marathon, and will be taking on the Marathon again on November 9. (Editor's Note: Emily was the female winner of the 2013 Fall Madison Marathon, and 5th place overall.)
FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Emily: Growing up in Springfield, IL, one of my favorite races is the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon. Having recently moved to Madison, I am participating in more local races such as the New Year's Day dash, Madison Half Marathon in the spring, Madison Mini Marathon in the fall, as well as the Syttende Mai 20K. I have also gotten into some really great trail runs like Bear Trax 20K in Kettle Moraine Park.
Emily Kurian (left-center, jumping) at the Green Bay Marathon. Credit: David Mari
Emily's Personal Story
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Emily: When I was about 9 or 10, my older brothers joined the junior high cross country team. I followed in their footsteps running cross country and track in high school and then continued to run cross country at St Louis University. After college, I continued to maintain my running to stay active. While I have remained somewhat competitive and continue to race, my ultimate goal is to be a "lifelong runner" and to maintain a healthy way of life.
FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?
Emily: To have such an incredible event here in my backyard (somewhat literally), I couldn't NOT run it!! Sharing the experience of running my daily routes through Madison with so many others is a thrill!
FFP: Do you do anything special to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Emily: I am honored to have my husband, Joe Kurian, and his training partner, Thomas Brunold, both previous Madison Marathon winners, to train and race alongside me. They definitely help me through any rough spots along the way.
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Emily: The course is great — both scenic and challenging!
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
Ashley Matthys missed the deadline for registering for the soccer team in seventh grade - so she took up running instead. Now, as she prepares for her first-ever Madison Marathon 26.2 distance, she can't imagine a deeper passion for any sport aside from running. Read about Ashley's experiences in this Madison Marathon athlete profile.
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
10 Ways to Use Your FocalShare Digital Photo
Free race photos are awesome - but what can you do with them? Here are 10 ideas about how to use your free FocalShare digital photos from Focal Flame Photography.
As the saying goes, the best things in life are free. That's why free FocalShare digital photos are, well, awesome. If you've participated in a race or other sporting event that includes FocalShare service, you can download your high-resolution image at a cost of $0.00.
What can you do with your photo? If you're in need of creative ideas, here are 10 to get you started.
1. Inspire a friend. Perhaps this is your first race. Perhaps you've been competing in your sport for years. Either way, there is a friend out there who needs you to say, "Hey, join me, this is fun." Maybe they can't imagine themselves at the starting line. Maybe they need some encouragement. YOU can be the person who shows them that it's possible, because you've been in their shoes - and now here you are, crossing the finish line. There's nothing more powerful than an image to start a conversation.
2. Blog it. Do you chronicle your training and competition adventures? You're in good company. There are countless athlete blogs written by novices, women, men, semi-pros and pros - every sport, age division, and lifestyle you can imagine. Each blog serves a critical purpose: by telling your story, you help people understand your journey. You never know what spark this might inspire. Maybe there's a would-be athlete out there just like you that needs some concrete examples of what it takes to spend a day in your running shoes. Your race report can help them understand what it takes to get there. Without an image, all they have is your words to take on faith; with your photo, they can actually visualize not only the journey, but the beautiful outcome.
3. Inspire yourself. Focal Flame Photography is headquartered in Madison, WI. We understand the realities of a true winter. There will come a day - likely in mid-February - where you need a reminder that at one point there was no such thing as a "polar vortex," that green grass existed, and that sweat can in fact flow freely. Download your high-resolution FocalShare image, print that baby out, and hang it near your trainer, treadmill, or gym locker. We promise: someday, it will get you through that remaining 10% of your workout. You're welcome.
4. Spark a meet-up. Has it been years since you got together with high school or college buddies? What about your posse - the folks that stood up for you at your wedding, or fraternity/sorority brethren, or the friends you used to spend endless hours with hanging around the neighborhood? It's time to re-connect. Share your photo and invite them to join you at your next event. It might involve some cajoling, some bribing, maybe even some practical tips on how to train for a 5K. But follow through with the ask, and show them how much fun a healthy lifestyle can be. You know that it's possible. They just need an invitation.
5. Brag. Honestly, it's fun. And it's important. When you do something hard, you get to reap the rewards....period. Declare to the naysayers of the world (and even your support crew): CHECK IT OUT - I GOT THIS. Remember: Pics or it didn't happen.
6. Office decor. Some people decorate their cubicles with pictures of cats. We like cats. There's nothing wrong with cats. But you also have the option of framing photos of you being athletically awesome. This may in fact inspire you at a critical moment when preparing your next TPS report.
7. Send to donors as a thank-you gift. If you have participated in a sports event as a fundraiser for a cause, you might be trying to think of a unique, fun way to thank the people who donated on your behalf. What could be more unique than an image of YOU in competition? Recognize the folks who put their good name and money behind your ability to persevere: show them what passion in action looks like.
8. Holiday card. Toward the end of the year you may find yourself searching frantically for images that summarize a memorable accomplishment while wishing you could just get back to the festivities. Problem solved! What could be more poignant than committing to, preparing for, and participating in an event?
9. Hang it next to your kid's school photo. If you have kids (or if you're important in the life of a child as an aunt, uncle, grandparent, guardian, older sibling, etc.), you know that school portraits are a yearly rite of passage. It's important to put those school pictures up on your refrigerator. But it's also important to show the next generation what strength and dedication looks like. Don't hide it: children need to see that side of you. Even if they don't say anything about it, they'll internalize the message.
10. Give back. Is there a coach, training partner, friend, or family member who made certain that you were well-supported as you trained? Whether their sweat equity was paid in voices made hoarse from yelling, patience as they watched the clock waiting for you to return from your training session, or camaraderie on the toughest workouts, you're simply not done with your event until you thank them. Show them what they made possible by sharing your race photo.
While the list above details a few of the things you can do with your free FocalShare photo...there are also a few things you cannot do. Here are three examples.
1. Don't represent the photo as your own creative work. While your place at the front of the lens is first and foremost brilliant, every photograph is a relationship between two people: the photo subject, and the photographer. We at Focal Flame Photography are proud to hire the best in the business. Our photographers are highly skilled, experienced, and incredibly nice people who work exceptionally hard in every imaginable weather condition to make sure they capture you at the right moment and with true artistry. When you share your image, please take care to credit the hardworking artists who documented that critical moment. And please, don't submit the image to a photography contest as if it was your own creation. (Don't laugh. There is a reason we have to mention this.) Focal Flame Photography encourages sharing of FocalShare images by photo subjects, but retains copyright.
2. Use a FocalShare image for disparaging purposes. Focal Flame Photography is on a mission to create good in the world. Images we create may not be used to disparage, harass, embarrass, or make fun of anyone or anything. We feel pretty strongly about this. Contact us if you have any questions.
3. Re-sell the image or use it for commercial purposes. FocalShare images are free to share for your own personal use, but attempting to re-sell or gain profit from it in any way is simply not ok. If you or another party is interested in a commercial use license, contact us - are more than happy to help. (But rest assured - we do not issue commercial use licenses without permission of you as the photo subject.)
How have you used your FocalShare digital? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or via email.
Lacrosse Comes to Madison - What a Score!
by Deborah Proctor
What you say? Oh, not the city — lacrosse (all lower case) — the fast paced field sport, with its roots in Native American culture. Combining elements of basketball, soccer, and hockey, while favoring speed, agility, and finesse over brawn, lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in America.
Madison scored big when chosen by US Lacrosse to host the 2013 US Central Lacrosse Championship in the area. This open tournament attracted teams from eight central US states, which according to Jamie Patrick of the Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) "had an estimated direct spending impact of over $998,000."
So how did Madison win the bid for this premier sporting event? "Madison is the intersection of great people, meeting venues, restaurants, attractions, and support all wrapped up in a unique personality. It’s why people like coming here for events," said Patrick,"We also have great June weather (and) a venue that fits the needs of the event well."
To meet the needs of the 40 teams that traveled to Madison for the championship, MASC partnered with the Wisconsin Lacrosse Federation (WLF) who provided volunteers, scheduled referees, and painted fields. MASC added housing support, volunteer time, marketing and other services and support.
Federation President, Dave Wollin, was thrilled that Madison was chosen. "This is a big shot of recognition for Wisconsin Lacrosse, which has been getting downplayed by local media and area universities because the sport is not recognized by the WIAA. But...we have 234 boys and girls teams in the state, including ... varsity level... double-digit growth for the past 7 years."
Focal Flame Photography, who photographed the event on behalf of the MASC, congratulates all the players who participated in the championship on a great display of enthusiasm and sportsmanship. We send our heartiest cheers of support to local Dane County UC15 team DC Capitals who earned a #1 bracket seed and posted a 4-1 tournament record, finishing in 2nd place and qualifying to play in the National Tournament in Florida in July. If you would like to help the team cover expenses for this trip, contact them at dccapitalslax@hotmail.com. For more information on how you can learn the sport or get involved as a volunteer or coach, visit www.MADLAX.org.
Interested in sports photography for your youth team? Contact us today!