Madison Marathon Profile: Faye Reber

Faye shares these photos from March 2014 (left) and July 2015 (right)...75 pounds lost. Photo collage courtesy Feye Reber.

Faye enjoying zumba training. Photo courtesy Faye Reber. 

Meet Faye Reber of Madison, Wisconsin. By the time she toes the starting line for the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon events, she will have lost about 100 pounds, a journey that has been life-changing. Faye is tackling the Conquer the Capital challenge, a combination of each of the Madison Marathon distances in 2016 (the Twilight 10K on May 28, the Half Marathon on May 29, and the Marathon on November 13). Her best advice? “Be stronger than your excuses.”

Focal Flame Photography (FFP):  How many Madison Marathon events have you run?
Faye Reber: These will be my first.

FFP: Have you participated in other similar events?
Faye: Yes! I ran my first official 5K in July of 2012 (Waunafest) and my first half in August of 2012 (Madison Mini).

Since then I've completed … two more (halfs)... When I completed the 2015 Madison Mini, I took over 14 minutes off of my time, which I attribute to my weight loss as well as my workouts - especially my personal training sessions.

FFP: Are there any personal accomplishments that you are particularly proud of?
Faye:  The fact that I could run my first half (and I ran the entire thing) was huge for me, but I missed my goal time. When I ran the race again in 2015, I came in more than 14 minutes faster, I was ecstatic - and even more so when I saw that the last 5K of that race was the quickest 5K I had run to date.

Of course I am proud of my weight loss, it is huge and it allows me to see that my body is constantly capable of so much more. ... Learning to lose slowly has taken patience, but I think it has also allowed me to enjoy life more while working on a maintainable weight loss and not just quick fixes.

FFP: What does running and participating in events, such as the upcoming Madison Half Marathon and Twilight series (and the Marathon in the Fall) mean to you?
Faye:  For me, every race and every training run help me understand and prove what I am capable of. These events and the training … give me healthy outlets. The people I've met and become friends with is just as important! I never consider myself to be "racing" against anyone else, but I'm still at a point that I'm losing weight, working hard, and lately I've seen huge improvements on each of my races. I know that at some point those will level out, but to see the progress each time is really rewarding!

I wasn't super athletic growing up. I finally joined the rugby team my senior year in college and loved it, but the running was hard. I tore my achilles and when discussing recovery plans, I remember the sports ortho essentially saying it didn't matter much because I'd never be a runner. The irony of that is amusing to me now!

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you pick these events?
Faye:  After finishing my last half in August 2015, I decided I was ready to commit to a full marathon. A friend of mine was also ready to look for a full. …. When I looked at the Madison Marathon again and started looking at The Conquer the Capital Challenge, we decided why not go all in and sign up for the whole thing!

FFP: Can you tell us what it has been like to train/prepare for the event?
Faye: Training so far has been surprising. I've realized that on my days that I "just want to go for a run" it's almost "easy" for me to hit 6-7 miles for fun. I don't think I would have ever anticipated that this would be the case!

Knowing I have to pull back on other fun, social workouts to hit my training runs and not be overly exhausted is something I am working on and I know it'll get harder as the time commitment for marathon training increases for November.

FFP: What will it mean to you to participate in the May race?
Faye: I think the May races will be a test in self-restraint. In order to do my best on the half, I know I will need to keep myself from going all out on the 10K the night before. I am also recovering from a knee injury at a little over a month out from the races so keeping balance and being smart is important!

FFP: Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience?
Faye:  If people can take anything from my story, I hope it is that inspiration to reach their goals too. Be stronger than your excuses - you do not need to be an all-star athlete or subject matter expert to conquer huge goals. When you truly make up your mind and commit to a goal - weight loss, physical fitness, running, or anything for that matter it's possible. There are always bumps, pauses, or plateaus but don't quit!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes and others who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2016. 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 Spring Madison Marathon events will occur on May 28 and 29, 2016 on the streets of Wisconsin's capital city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Suellen Adams

Madison Marathon Profile: Paul Gill and Abby Evans - Love on the Run

Photo by Kathy Krohn-Gill

Meet Paul Gill and Abby Evans. Paul and Abby met and got to know each other through running, so it is only fitting that when they run the Madison Half Marathon on May 29, 2016, it will be a week before their June 4 wedding. We caught up with them briefly to learn more about how running has influenced their lives together, and what the Madison Marathon events mean to them.

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathon events have you done?
Paul: Abby and I did our first marathon ever during the Madison Marathon of 2010. It was so hot that the marathon was cancelled about three-quarters of the way through but we both stuck it out. We also did the half on a hot event day in 2012.

Paul in the 2015 Lake Monona 20K. Photo (c) 2015 Focal Flame Photography | Credit: Steve Gotter on behalf of Focal Flame Photography

FFP: Have you participated in other similar events?
Paul: I’ve done the Monona 20K a few times and the inaugural Wausau Marathon back in 2012.

Abby: I have run 2 half marathons, one Madison Marathon Half, the Rock and Sole in Milwaukee, and one full Madison Marathon.  I have also done Crazy Legs for several years!

FFP: What does running and participating in events, such as the Madison Half Marathon mean to you?
Paul and Abby: For us, it’s a challenge unlike anything else we deal with on a regular basis in school or at work. But the best part is that we can face the challenge and train with friends. Running has always been a stress reliever for us, and I think its fair to say we are both addicted (in a healthy way, we promise). Withdrawal from running is a real-thing! It’s our chance to get outside of the building, into open air (yes, even when its in the single digits) and let our minds wander wherever. And we always feel better than when we started, we can honestly say I’ve never regretted completing a run. Participating in various events and going for runs is also something we can do as a couple and challenge each other to do our best. It is a great way to spend time together as well. 

FFP:  With so many races to choose from, why this one?
Paul: Abby grew up in Madison and went here for undergrad and I’ve been in school here for 9 years. We leave for Milwaukee in a few months and wanted to do as many Madison focused things as we could. It also helps that we’re getting married up on the square at the Madison Concourse Hotel on the weekend following the race on June 4, 2016. :-)

FFP: Can you tell us what it has been like to train/prepare for the event? Have you prepared as a couple? What was that like?
Paul: Abby and I have been living in different cities for the last 4 years while we finish school.  I will be graduating from UW-Madison 2 weeks before the event with a medical degree and Abby will be graduating from UW-Milwaukee one week before the event with a Doctorate degree in physical therapy. When we’re apart, telling the other person how much we ran that day almost always leads our nightly FaceTime conversation. It’s a healthy competition. Occasionally, if we’re lucky and running at the same time in different places, we’ll try and call each other while on our runs. However, when we’re together, we’ll always set our schedules around a time where we can run together. We do a lot of life-planning on our runs, especially lately with the wedding coming up. I’d say over 50% of our wedding has been planned while out running. We also just added a black lab puppy into our family so excited to begin running with him as well!

FFP: What will it mean to you to participate in the May race?
Paul and Abby: … it will be the culmination of all the miles we’ve put in over the years in Madison. The course goes down many of our favorite running routes and so it will, in some ways, be like a nostalgic farewell tour of Madison (for the time being anyways…)

FFP: Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience?
Paul: Running is how Abby and I got to know each other. We were just two people in a class who, along with a few others, just wanted to go for runs together. Running helped us become great friends. And from that, the rest of it is history.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes or behind-the-scenes staff who are involved in a Madison Marathon event in 2016. 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 Spring Madison Marathon events will occur on May 28 and 29, 2016 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- by Suellen Adams

10 Ways for Small Businesses to Use Video

You have a small business or run a nonprofit organization and you are wondering if video marketing is for you. The answer is almost certainly, yes. According to Brainshark, video is projected to account for 74% of all Internet traffic in 2017 and a majority of marketing professionals worldwide name video as the type of content with the best return on investment. So how can your small business or nonprofit make use of video for promotion? Here are some ideas, accompanied by videos we've produced for our clients.

1. Introduce yourself
A short and simple 2 to 5 minute video introduction to your business for your homepage can be an effective way to reach your audience. Such a video should tell who you are, what you do and why the viewer should care. E3 Coaching used this approach to explain their philosophy on triathlon training. 

2. Demonstrate a Product
Do you have a demonstrable product or service? Create a video to demo it. This works particularly well for things that move like toys, machines, electronic devices…even software. Remember to highlight the very best features of your product and let people know what it will do for them. While this type of video may be a bit longer, remember that less is more.  Keep it short and simple. Industrial fan manufacturer Go Fan Yourself found this technique to be helpful for showcasing their new Z-Tech HVLS Fan model.

3. Tell a story
Not all businesses or nonprofits have products that are easy to demonstrate. Many small business provide professional services and while you might demonstrate their effectiveness with graphs and charts, telling a story can be much more effective.  A story can separate your business from other similar ones. Whether it is the story of how you started, the story of lessons learned along the way, or a story of how you helped a particular client or clients, video stories are a great way to make your business memorable. Preschool of the Arts needed to show how their approach to early childhood education resonated with children, parents, and teachers alike. The primary focus was on showing the experience of children, and the perspectives of parents and teachers were interwoven as well. 

4. Spotlight a company achievement  
Has your business reached a milestone? Or maybe you have been named on a “best of” list or received an industry award or some other honor. Celebrate it with a short video that you can share with clients and potential clients on your website or through social media. Social media, in particular, gives the opportunity to reach a large audience through tagging and sharing. Including a link back to your site brings added traffic. Visit Madison (the Greater Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau) presented Spirit of Hospitality Awards to local hospitality and tourism industry leaders, including Nick Topitzes, and featured each awardee in a video. 

5. Spotlight an employee
The most successful video marketing makes a personal connection. One way to do this is to put the spotlight on an employee. Good old-fashioned employee of the month style videos can put a face on the company. Of course naming an employee of the month implies that there will be a continuing series, however producing a series of 2-4 minute employee videos over time can pay off in two ways. First, it will show what the qualities the business values in its employees, thus appealing to customers with the same values. Second, allowing the employees to share to their social networks will increase the reach. Another video in the Spirit of Hospitality series allowed Joey Connaughty to be highlighted for her professionalism and dedication.

6. Spotlight a customer or client
Customers or clients too are an important face of the business or organization, and can make a personal connection. If you have a customer who is interesting in some way, or has a special relationship with your business, tell their story in a video. They too can share the video to their personal networks…and spread your message. To help the nonprofit organization Madison Dental Initiative show how providing free dental care to those in need could impact lives, a client shared his personal story.  

7. Share testimonials 
Another way to spotlight the positive experience of your existing customers, clients, or end users is testimonials in video form. It shows that people like your product or service enough to speak for you. It is important to choose individuals who are comfortable on camera and do not need to speak from a script. A stiff or overly nervous delivery may not seem as sincere. Alumni of the University of Wisconsin Master's in Biotechnology program described how the training they obtained in the program helped their careers.

8. Promote a Special Event
A very short video can be used as a mini advertisement for your sale or other special event. Consider including a video-specific code or coupon for viewers only, or use it for social media advertising or a Google AdWords campaign. To show the high-energy, fun atmosphere of It's Glow Time 5K "running meets disco" events, a promotional video used dance music and colorful scenes of participants. 

9. Create a Brand Personality
No matter which kind of video you choose for your business, make sure the “personality” of your business shines through.  To do this you need to avoid blandness. Using people, whether the CEO, employees or customers can help, as people are often attracted and engaged by other people. You can also try humor or creative visuals in order to exhibit your business’ values and personality. Monroe Street Family Dental created a series of videos to explain different aspects of their unique approach, and used scenes from their environmentally-friendly clinical space to create a sense of warmth and a neighborhood feel.

10. Demonstrate or explain an idea
There are some things that are simply easier to show than to write about. Think about all of the valuable information your business can share with clients or customers: quick tips, techniques, step-by-step processes, or even explanations of how something works. Short, bite-sized videos are perfect for showing the insight that your company or organization can offer - and viewers will want to share them with their friends. Bike fitting expert Craig Watson used video to show how cleat position affects road cyclists, including close-up shots so viewers could see fine details of cleats positioned properly or improperly.

11 (Bonus!) - Create a YouTube Channel
Setting up a YouTube channel for your business or organization is free, and easy as well. YouTube is owned by Google giving the potential for great searchability and visibility, plus you'll be able to track metrics about which videos are most popular, how many minutes viewers have spent watching, and other helpful analytics.  If you publish your videos on YouTube, be sure to include a descriptive title, as well as relevant tags and category information to help you get higher rankings.

Thinking about incorporating video into your marketing strategy? The Focal Flame video production team offers flexible solutions. With marketing professionals, scriptwriters, videographers and video editors on staff, each project is tailored to your need. Contact us today!

- by Suellen Adams

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