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iRun because I cannot say no to a second slice of chocolate cakeEmily Shandruk , Vancouver, BC

iRun to stay fit and release those running endorphinsLiliana Plava , Calgary, AB

iRun because I want to qualify for Boston and raise money for charities near and dear to my heartChristine Gracel , Calgary, AB

iRun because it makes me feel good, allows me to spend time with my friends and gives me a feeling of accomplishmentHelen Kolodziejzyk , Calgary, AB

iRun but not enoughMichael Shaw , New Westminister, BC

iRun because I never thought I would be able toGary Morris , Winnipeg, MB

iRun to challenge myself, physically and mentallyKathleen Keenan , Brampton, ON

iRun because people around me inspire mePina Bevilacqua , Caledon, ON

iRun therefore I amDuncan Walsh , Nottingham, UK

iRun because I liveGeorges Schneller , Laval, QC

iRun to be free and enjoy our beautiful countryCheryl Carter , Clearwater , BC

iRun for overall wellbeingTrish McCourt , Halifax, NS

iRun because it makes me a better person, a better wife, a better mother and a better friendNathalie Joncas-Caissie , St-Antoine, NB

iRun because it makes me feel powerfulCarlene Paquette , Carp, ON

iRun because pecan pie, french fries and beer are chasing meTeresa Sterling , Ottawa , ON

iRun because it’s in meMichael Foley , Stittsville, ON

iRun because it reminds me that I am capable of so much more than I have doneJames Sauve , Ottawa, ON

iRun for meKiza Francis , Ottawa,ON

iRun to prove to myself I canLesley McGougan , Brampton, ON

iRun because all the ladies are chasing my sexy runner’s bodyChris Baker , Etobicoke, ON

iRun because I can and I’m gratefulTerry SanCartier , Gatineau, QC

iRun because when I run I feel most aliveMeghan Lynch , Ottawa, ON

iRun to unleash my inner athleteAdelle Densham , Avonmore, ON

iRun because it cleans up my life, because I drink more water, sleep better and eat healthier foodsRobin McIntyre , Ottawa, ON

iRun because of the peace and strength it brings meMichelle Jordan , Ottawa, ON

iRun because I need it to soothe the soul, keep me in shape and for overall wellbeingBeth Neil , Lombardy, ON


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October 19, 2008

  In This Issue
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Thinking about the long run

by Geordie McConnell

It was a hot day for September with just 5k to the finish line. In an attempt to cool down, I grabbed two cups of water at the next aid station and dumped them on my head, then quickly grabbed a couple more and repeated the ritual. It was as I threw those last empty cups down that the connection was made.

I will go to all ends to avoid walking out of a coffee shop with a disposable cup but there, in the space of 10 seconds, my hands had dispatched four cups on their journey to a landfill. While adopting more sustainable habits at home, I had never made the connection to my life as a runner. Our sport benefits society in countless ways, but that doesn't mean we can't also make efforts to increase its sustainability. Here are five strategies you could use to make a positive change in your running habits.

Gel Flask
  1. Use a Gel Flask: Instead of consuming energy gels from one serving packets, purchase large bottles of gel and a refillable flask.
  2. Be Sponge-worthy: If your race makes wet sponges available, definitely opt for this cooling method. Not only are they reusable, they also do a better job of cooling you.
  3. Skip the Blanket: If you finish a marathon and really don't need the silver Mylar blanket offered to you, give it a miss. The medal around your neck and the smile on your face is your true badge of honour.
  4. Donate Old Shoes: A shoe can lose its cushioning and support in as little as 600 kilometres but still look like new. There are a number of organizations out there that collect used running shoes and ship them to those in need.
  5. Spread the Word: Help others make the connection between sustainability and the world of running.

 
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