Running Wild | January 2019
Run Wild Missoula Executive Director: Be Safe, Not Sorry
Sure, it's been a pretty mild winter so far; and, we're past the solstice - so the days will now start to lengthen. But, let's face it. We have a ways to go until we start to see robins, daffodils and potholes. In the meantime, we'll all be putting in plenty of miles in the dark on slick roads, tracks and trails.

And, that means we need to think about safety. I've had a couple of friends hit by cars over the years (thankfully none fatally). I also know plenty who have slipped and gone down in icy conditions. Best case they ended up with a bruised muscle (and/or ego). Worst case they ended up with torn muscles and/or broken bones - together with a broken ego :-)

If you'll be running in the dark, it's imperative that you can be seen by cars, bikers, and other runners. There are lots of options for reflective vests; and, plenty of choices for clip-on lights that strobe or blink. In fact, there's now a vest that combines both reflective materials and high visibility lighting. In addition, consider routes that keep you away from areas of higher vehicular traffic.

It also helps immensely if you can see where you're going when it's dark outside. Thanks to LED lighting and rechargeable battery technology, there are some great lighting products available to runners and walkers. From headlamps, to handhelds and clip-on's, there's certain to be product that will work to light your way.

Finally, when it's icy we can all use some help to stay on our feet and remain vertical. As with lighting, the options for traction assistance have greatly increased in number and quality over the years. From carbide pins for roads and sidewalks to mini-crampons for trails to old-school sheet metal screws, you should have no trouble finding traction devices that work for you.

Being safe (or at least safer) isn't really all that hard; but, it does require some forethought and some basic gear. It also requires some diligence in making sure that you use the gear. I know that it's easy to say to yourself that "it's really not that slick, I won't need those traction devices" - and, it then seems like those are the days that you inevitably hit the deck! So, visit your local running specialty store (hint - it's Runner's Edge) and use your RWM member discount to stock up on safety items this winter.

Preparing for a safe run or walk is well worth it to avoid an injury that keeps you from enjoying Missoula's great outdoor recreation opportunities. And, the price of a little bit of safety prevention is a heck of a lot better than the costs of a visit to the doctor or hospital.

Until next month, here's to hoping that you stay safe out on Missoula's roads, tracks, and trails.

Tony
How Many Miles Did You Run in 2018?
MILES ARE DUE BY SUNDAY, JANUARY 20, 2019!

The 1200/2000 Mile Club members from the last couple years can tell you that it is absolutely worth it to get those miles turned in! Miles are due by the end of the day on Sunday, January 20th. We are hoping to get the Mileage Club gifts ordered and delivered by the middle of February.

CLICK HERE to log your miles - be sure to login in the upper righthand corner!

If you have questions, or need helping accessing the page, email Ashley, at  ashleyc@runwildmissoula.org

As of Monday, December 31, 2018 , these are the club running stats:

  • As a club, we ran 166,401.15 miles in 2018

  • As a club, we averaged 456 miles per day - that's like running from Missoula to Miles City (via Hwy 12)!

  • 92 members recorded over 1,000 miles for 2018!

  • 185 of our members recorded some or all of their miles in our database for 2018
Winter Yoga with Missy Adams
Start the year off right and resolve to stay healthy and injury-free in 2019. Yoga for Runners & Walkers is designed with the active body in mind. Whether you have just started walking or running, are an experienced runner, or prefer to embrace winter by enjoying skiing and snowshoeing--this class is designed with the active body in mind. Each class will focus on strengthening, balancing, stretching poses and core work that will compliment all the winter activity you will be engaging in.  Classes are held at Run Wild Missoula (basement of Runner's Edge, 304 N. Higgins). Yoga mats, straps and blocks are provided.

Tuesday Lunch Yoga; January 8th - March 19th; 12:15 - 1:00 PM

Thursday Evening Yoga; January 10th - March 21st; 6:00 - 7:00 PM

Discounted class pricing offered to RWM Members. Run Wild Missoula membership is not required.
Wednesday CORE with Alison Laundrie
Often runners are much stronger in their lower extremities than their core. This results in an imbalance in the body that it will continuously try to remedy. This class is designed to keep a runner’s core strong. Core work conditions the body from the abdominals to the arms and legs. Classes are held at Run Wild Missoula (304 N. Higgins Ave, Basement). Mats provided, comfortable clothing recommended, running shoes not required.

Wednesdays CORE Class ; January 9th - March 27th; 12:15-1:00 PM

Discounted class pricing offered to RWM Members. Run Wild Missoula membership is not required.

To register or find out more about this session, email  Alison Laundrie .

Alison Laundrie is the owner of Move Missoula. Move Missoula is dedicated to enriching lives through movement. 
Galloway Training Classes
January is Galloway Time at Run Wild Missoula!  

Jeff Galloway's approach to distance training is designed to reduce injury by increasing miles gently and alternating run-walk segments. Supportive pace groups build confidence and foster morale.  

Galloway classes are a great choice for beginners, injury-prone runners, runners with busy schedules and limited time to train, and and those who are coming back after time off from running. Many of us have started this program as an experiment and gotten hooked on it long term. RWM has a large and impassioned community of run-walk-runners among its members.

Both classes are now open for registration via  www.runwildmissoula.org (must be logged in to register)

24-Week Marathon Class* : Begins Sunday, January 13th at 8:00 AM

19-Week Half Marathon Class: Begins Sunday, February 17th at 8:00 AM

In addition, the RWM Get in Shape run-walk-run ®  class (8 weeks) will begin in late April to prepare for the 5K distance. Details and registration will be available later in the spring. 

All three classes will train participants for goal races on June 29 and 30,  Missoula Marathon weekend.  

For more information, contact Pam Gardiner (406-274-0188) or Teresa Nichols (406-360-2351); or email  Missoulagalloway@gmail.com

*24-week class is also open to half-marathoners who want an early start on training.

Note: Run Wild Missoula also offers separate running and walking classes that will prepare you for the Missoula Marathon and Half Marathon. More information coming soon.
Winter Racing at Run Wild Missoula
Heart Throb 5K: February 9
Love your heart? Love your sweetie? Love to run in red outfits?  If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, then you need to be at the Heart Throb 5K on February 9th! 

Beat the winter doldrums and get your heart beating with a fun, mid-winter 5K - Registration is just $15 for Run Wild Missoula members!

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.? In fact, one in every 4 deaths is the result of heart disease. Regular exercise is a great way to develop a healthy heart. So, do your heart some good and come out for this fun 5K event!

Show your support for  National Heart Month and be eligible to win a prize. Wear anything red - a small accessory or a full head to toe red outfit - and you could win a prize for best red outfit! Don't forget, nothing says "I love you" like doing a 5K with your sweetie as a lead up to Valentine's Day. Remember, couples that run together, stay together!

This will be a great day to love yourself, love your partner, and love your heart!

Snow Joke Half Marathon: February 23
We are pleased to announce that Run Wild Missoula will be assisting the  Missoulian  by providing race management services for the 2019  Snow Joke Half Marathon . We're thrilled to lend our operations knowledge to this iconic race.

The 40th annual Snow Joke will count towards RWM member's 7 Races for a Goodie & Run Wilder !

Run for the Luck of It! 7 Mile & 5K: March 16
What better way to kick off St. Patty's Day than with a few hundred of your best running friends!?! Join us on  Saturday, March 16th  and Run for the Luck of It!

We will be returning to Bonner Park this year! The 5K will run through the University District. The 7 Mile will take advantage of the beautiful trails we have along the Clark Fork River. Don't forget to bring along your little leprechauns - we have a 400-meter kid's dash, too. Stick around after the race for our block party!

Be sure to dress in your best St. Patty's Day get-up. We will have prizes for the  best costume on race day! We will also have awards for the  top three overall winners of the 5K and 7 Mile, as well as the  top age group winners.

Last Wednesday Beer Run & Marathon Registration Party
Last Wednesday Beer Run • January 30

Sign up for a marathon they said... It will be fun they said...

Actually, they’re right! That’s why on January 30th, we are hosting the Run Wild Missoula Beer Run & Missoula Marathon Registration Party with one of our sponsors - Big Sky Brewing Company !

This event kicks off with a casual run/walk with your friends, a beer or two, and some legit peer pressure to register for the Missoula Marathon (half marathon or 5K; did someone say Big 3 Challenge?). ALL … while you still have a runner’s high and slight beer buzz.

Hey, it’s only the #1 Marathon in the US for the second year in a row! Did we mention the price increases a couple of beers worth on February 1st... Stop by the taproom January 30th at 6:00 PM for some fun, a run, and beer(s).
"5 Miles to Beer Thirty" - The monthly beer run is a casual fun run/walk open to all runners and all abilities. Each month a 3 and 5 mile route is offered at a different brewery location on the last Wednesday of the month, and at the end is a social gathering with libations and food. What could be a better way to end the month?
Special thanks to our Chancellor of Libations, Dana, for organizing our monthly Last Wednesday Beer Runs! We had hundreds of runners and walkers join us throughout 2018 - we hope to see you in 2019!
January BOP Social: January 26
BOP color-black
Saturday, January 26

Annual BOP Chili Feed (run-walk-eat)
3:00 PM:  Meet at Frenchtown Pond State Park
• Run-walk out & back (your choice how far) on the bike trail

4:00 PM:  Gather at the home of Carol and Kevin Drake
• 8940 Marigold Court (near the Wye I-90 at Hwy 93 & 200 North)
• If Google Maps leads you astray, call 406-880-2825 for directions

Chili (including vegetarian) provided. BYO beverage, and a side or dessert to share 

MANY THANKS to the Drakes for starting this tradition and keeping it alive!

Member Spotlight: Nico Composto
Where are you from? What brought you to Missoula?

I am from Chicago originally and went to college in New York. I moved to Missoula a few years after college because I wanted to live near mountains. I came out here to work a year as an Americorps VISTA and have since decided to stay to pursue a career as a teacher. I love it here in Missoula. It is such a special place and I can't imagine leaving.


Do you know someone from our Run Wild Missoula community that we should get to know better? Click Here to Nominate
Around Town
Sorry Bout That Half Marathon, January 12, Polson

Frozen Feet Challenge, January 14 - March 10


Treadmill Challenge, February 6, Missoula

Montana Women's Run, May 11, Billings

Run Like A Mother, May 12, Missoula
Membership Benefits
Run Wild Missoula Information
Run Wild Missoula | 406.544.7073 | info@runwildmissoula.org | www.runwildmissoula.org
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