CHECKERS CHATTER

The 22nd Checkers All Western New York Cross Country Invitational was held on November 23rd at Elma Meadows Golf Course under beautiful weather conditions. Ninety seven runners from over forty eight different high schools competed for the title of Western New York Cross Country Runners of the Year. The Girls race was won by Jessica Nowak (Orchard Park) with a time of 20:33. The Boys race winner was Chuck Lederer (Starpoint) who defended his title with a time of 16:48. My thanks to this years sponsors: Runners Roost, Metro Community News, The Buffalo News, Frito Lay and Rural Metro. Again this year the race was a great success because of the great club volunteers turnout: Becky Heuer, Diane Sardes, Tony Garrow, Jean Chiarmonte, Jim Schaffstall, Jim Kenney, Don Seitz, Karen Crissey, Kathy Sinicropi, Mary Roll, Edye Radice, Sandy Hebeler, Alan Wrobel, Amy Fakterowitz, Debbie Morris-Allen, Peter Morris, Greg Lavis and Jenn McConvey were on hand to led their support. Special gratitude for Bob Carroll and Roger Roll for the work they put in on this years race shirt. It was a big hit with all the runners! And of course a big thanks to Pete Szymanski the Poll Coordinator for the tremendous job he does throughout the cross country season. The board and club members should be very proud of this years race. See you next year...

Congratulations to Donna Neth and Steve O’Neill, and Joannie Padginton and Dan Essler on their recent marriages.

And congratulations to

Ed and Maureen Mills, and to Martin and Carol

Denysschen. Both have new baby daughters in their

families.

Condolences to Ken Gordon on the recent loss of his father.

Our Northern-most Checkers’ member, Maureen Knutsen from Naknek, Alaska, would like to thank all the Checkers members who ran with her over the course of her 1-month vacation this summer.  After 5 races, 4 track work-outs, a number of trail runs at Hunter's Creek, several loops of Delaware Park, a couple of 17-19 mile runs on the hills of Varysburg, and some additional encouragement from her sister Kathy Melling and Bob Kolodziej, she decided to tackle her first marathon.  She placed 3^rd out of 15 in the F50-59 age group at the Equinox Marathon in Fairbanks, Alaska, on 9/20/03, with a time of 5:11:32.  This is a marathon with at least 20 miles of trails that climb to one of the highest points overlooking the town and drops back down again - not an easy course for your first marathon!

Roger and Mary Roll have been kind enough to offer their home again for this year’s Holiday Party.

Bring a dish to pass or $5.00. The club provides beer, soft drinks, and wine.

Directions: 90 East to Cleveland drive exit (just before the 290). Make a LEFT onto Cleveland Drive. Go to the first traffic signal, turn LEFT onto Birkdale, Go 2 blocks to Hillside, turn LEFT onto Hillside. We are at 78 Hillside, on the left just before the stop sign.

DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS

Amy R Hurta 12/2

Teresa C. Metz 12/3

James C. Kavanagh 12/4

Alan Wrobel 12/4

Rick Sambuchi 12/5

Karen Aavik 12/6

Mary Roll 12/6

Thomas Cumbo 12/7

Ray Ernst 12/7

Mark Kelly 12/7

John Lintner 12/8

Eileen Leary 12/9

Lucy Lorczak 12/9

Bill Schimpf 12/9

Kieran O'Loughlin 12/10

Alexis Alfasso 12/11

Hugh Arthur 12/11

Diane McGuire 12/11

Jerry Bergman 12/12

Thomas Couch 12/12

Eileen D'Arcy-Smith 12/12

Scott Eising 12/12

Kenneth Heavern 12/12

Fred Kobler 12/14

Richard VanAlmkerk 12/15

John Tamburlin 12/16

Mike Rogers 12/17

Allison Bartkowiak 12/19

Elaine Budelewski 12/19

Cynthia Ferrelli 12/19

Michelle Kunwicki 12/19

Chloe O'Loughlin 12/19

Gloria Calato 12/23

Gary Raby 12/23

Leanne Skrabacz 12/23

Tom Morahan 12/24

Grant Hennigar 12/25

Monika Mordue 12/25

Thomas Donnelly 12/26

Rodolfo Diaz Toyens 12/27

Susan Dowd 12/27

Jody Snyder 12/27

Alicia Proctor 12/28

Tom Baroni 12/29

Laura Scala 12/29

Chris Sangiacumo 12/30

Jim Collins 12/31

Brenna Symoniak 12/31

Paul Wandel 12/31

Matthew Glynn 0:31:42 1/M30-34

Mike Heitzenrater 0:33:11 1/M25-29

Kevin Burke 0:33:33 2/M30-34

John F. McMahon 0:34:32 1/M35-39

Thomas Proctor, IV 0:34:38 2/M25-29

Steven J. Woodard 0:36:07 2/M35-39

Allen Dise 0:36:26 2/M40-44

Fred G. Lew 0:38:50 1/M50-54

Debra Morris-Allen 0:39:42 1/F40-44

Amy Fakterowitz 0:39:56 1/F35-39

Thomas M. Miller 0:41:12 1/M45-49

Michael H. Harrison 0:41:23 1/M55-59

Joann O'Loughlin 0:42:19 2/F35-39

Douglas V. Ostrom 0:42:38 2/M55-59

Jonathan Bialek 0:42:39 2/M20-24

Jeanne Chiarmonte 0:42:40 2/F40-44

Julie M. Doell 0:44:26 2/F30-34

Jerry Bergman 0:44:39 2/M60-64

Pamela V. London 0:44:58 3/F35-39

Patricia M. Webb 0:45:05 3/F30-34

Joseph G. Antkowiak 0:46:36 1/M65-69

Diane E. McGuire 0:46:45 3/F45-49

Peggy L. Towers 0:46:59 1/F50-54

Patricia Kunselman 0:48:58 1/F55-59

Edye P. Radice 0:59:54 1/F65-69

Fran Rowe 1:03:57 4/F60-64

Mike Heitzenrater 0:15:32 1/M25-29

Kevin Burke 0:16:10 1/M30-34

John McMahon 0:16:32 1/M35-39

James Waldron 0:17:13 2/M40-44

Allen Dise 0:17:16 3/M40-44

Douglas Moreland 0:17:42 2/M45-49

Stephen Forrestel 0:17:59 1/M50-54

Thomas Baroni 0:18:15 3/M35-39

Fred Lew 0:18:24 2/M50-54

Amy Fakterowitz 0:18:35 1/F35-39

Joann O'Loughlin 0:19:36 2/F35-39

Mike Harrison 0:19:45 1/M55-59

Douglas Ostrom 0:20:05 2/M55-59

Gary Raby Sr 0:20:10 3/M50-54

Jeanne Chiarmonte 0:20:26 3/F40-44

Elizabeth Randell 0:20:34 3/F35-39

Ralph Zimmermann 0:20:46 3/M60-64

Julie Doell 0:20:47 3/F30-34

Diane McGuire 0:22:49 4/F45-49

Joe Antkowiak 0:22:59 1/M65-69

Maggie Mahoney 0:23:44 1/F13-14

Kathy Melling 0:24:31 9/F45-49

Mark Forell 0:24:59 21/M50-54

Michele Bauman 0:25:17 5/F40-44

Nancy Sheehan 0:26:27 10/F45-49

Mike Donovan 0:26:33 21/M40-44

Allison Bartkowiak 0:26:47 1/F 0-12

Sandra Hebeler 0:26:57 3/F50-54

Barbara Sauer 0:27:09 3/F55-59

Edye Radice 0:28:57 1/F65-69

Fran Rowe 0:29:21 3/F60-64

Edna Hyer 0:30:36 3/F65-69

Sandy Bueme 0:30:44 2/M75-79

Helen Bueme 0:32:19 1/F70-74

Fred Lew 0:41:39 1/M50-59

Larry Krajewski 0:45:03 2/M50-59

John Moore 0:46:12 1/M60-69

Nicole Ludwa 0:51:10 2/F20-29

Sandi Ludwa 0:52:21 1/F50-59

Edye Radice 0:64:12 2/F60-69

Ellen Grant 0:77:06 3/F50-59

Tom Proctor 0:17:03 2/M25-29

Mary Beth Lennon 0:21:45 1/F25-29

Allison Bartkowiak 0:26:05 2/F11-15

Nancy Sheehan 0:26:39 1/F45-49

Kim Gorman 0:28:34 2/F40-44

Fran Rowe 0:30:02 1/F60-64

Edna Hyer 0:30:44 1/F65-69

Michael Heitzenrater 0:16:42 1/M25-29

Rick Queeno 0:21:12 3/M35-39

Beverly Brown 0:25:08 2/F50-54

Sandra Hebeler 0:25:39 3/F50-54

Kim Gorman 0:26:43 4/F40-44

Thomas Proctor, IV 0:15:26 1/M25-29

Joe Biasillo 0:15:26 1/M35-39

Kevin Burke 0:15:41 1/M30-34

Rich Grimm 0:16:50 1/M40-44

Ted Paget 0:17:44 1/M50-54

Thomas Baroni 2/M35-39

Amy Fakterowitz 0:18:28 1/F35-39

Dennis Bauer 4/M50-54

Tom Miller 0:19:17 2/M45-49

Michael Harrison 0:19:29 1/M55-59

Greg Lavis 0:19:44 3/M45-49

Alan Wrobel 3/M40-44

Jennifer Priore 1/F25-29

Patricia Webb 2/F30-34

Kathleen Yesny 0:22:10 3/F45-49

Peggy Towers 1/F50-54

Patricia Hilbert 0:23:27 3/F30-34

Edye Radice 0:28:38 1/F65-69

Edna Hyer 0:30:33 2/F65-69

David Eckhardt 0:21:58 2/M45-49

Jonathan Rizzo 0:22:47 2/M35-39

Ellen Hamm 0:25:09 1/F35-39

Patricia Hilbert 0:26:27 2/F30-34

Tonja Nichols 0:27:25 3/F30-34

Marcy Sheehan 0:27:28 1/F50-54

Mike Curry 0:28:11 10/M50-54

A Different Kind of Uniform

I think this has probably happen to every one that runs at some time in their life. Whenever you are at track practice, a race, or just out for that jog, you see people dressed just like you. Shorts in the summer, then sweats or running tights in the cooler months. After a while you might make friends with these people you see all the time dressed like you, saying hello and maybe even knowing something about them. Even if you’re like me and can’t remember anyone’s name except your own, you still give them a wave or start up some conversation, asking yourself who is this person again? However, how about the first time you run into that same person you see all the time, and they are in street clothes or maybe like me in a uniform, but not a Checkers uniform. How often will you walk right pass each other and you don’t recognize them even though they might recognize you?

Sometimes it’s strange and takes you by surprise when you see a friend in a different environment and not wearing running clothes

On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2003, I had gone into work early before by own evening shift started. For those of you who don’t know, I’m an N.F.T.A. Public Safety Officer at the Buffalo Airport. We are armed law enforcement officers, who do Crash Fire Rescue, and provide Emergency Medical Services everywhere on and around the airport property. On this particular day, I was informed that my partner and I would be heading over to the air cargo facilities where the body of Michael L Williams would be arriving for a brief ceremony before leaving for the funeral home. For those of you, like me, who didn’t personally know Mike, here is a brief outline. Michael L. Williams was a 46-year-old husband and farther of four, Corrections Officer with the New York State Department of Corrections (NYSDOC), and worked with the NYS Inspector Generals Office. Mike was also an Army National Guard Specialist, assigned to the 105^th Military Police Unit. Mike had been killed in Baghdad, Iraq, and was coming back to WNY for finial burial with full military and State honors in a funeral involving military and Correctional personal, Honor Guard, etc.

It was a brief and somber ceremony with no words spoken. The flag-covered casket being carried by pallbearers, half military and half correction officers, exited the air cargo facility on the way to a waiting hearse. On one side stood a military honor guard and on the other side a NYSDOC honor guard. In total, there were around eighty people, including dignitaries from Albany. After the casket had been loaded into the hearse and the brief ceremony ended, we mingled around with fellow officers and exchanged handshakes. That’s when I noticed my friend and fellow Checker’s member Sibatu Khahaifa. Sibatu is Deputy Superintendent for Security Services, presently assigned to Collins Correctional Facility, Collins, NY. Now, I have known Sibatu for years, and we have run on winning relay teams together, but this was the first time we had seen each other in a uniform other than a Checker’s one. It turns out besides being a co-worker with Mike Williams, Sibatu was also a close friend of Mike’s and had known him since 1986. Sibatu and I exchanged handshakes, I gave him my condolences, and he thanked me and my co-workers for attending the ceremony. I remembered thinking how different we both looked, not having on a running uniform, and almost not recognizing each other. Yet here we were standing outside the running-world bubble, sharing the same respect for each other and for each ones unique line of work and wearing a different kind of uniform.

On Saturday, October 18, I was one of approximately 270 participants in the 21^st annual Mountain Masochist Trail Run in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I choose this run because 44 of its 50 miles were on trails and dirt roads and the low number of participants.

I knew going into the event that I would be walking a lot given an elevation gain of 9000 feet and an elevation loss of 7000 feet. The end result was that you finish the race 2000 feet higher than when you started. My strategy, based on conversations with friends and various articles I had read, was to walk all inclines. I felt that as long as I stayed within my ability level, and never let my blood sugar level drop, I could make the 12-hour cut off.

The night before the race at the pasta dinner I over heard conversations about "Horton miles". There was even a ballad sang that evening about the Horton mile. A Horton mile, named after the race director, is actually longer than a mile. What it all came down to was that no one seemed to know how long the race actually was. Some thought it was 51,52, 53 or 54 miles. I thought, "great". I am stretching a bit to pull off 50 and now no one seems to know how long the race actually is. Every extra mile would reduce the probability that I would make the 12-hour cut off.

The race started at 6:30 a.m. in the dark. The day was beautiful with no clouds, no wind, and temperatures ranging from the high 30’s to the mid 50’s. We had 16 aid stations. Typically, after eating a little and hydrating, I would leave the aid station with a quarter of a peanut butter sandwitch in each hand that I would slowly consume over the next 2-4 miles. I ran without a water bottle, so I had to be careful that I was consuming enough fluids at each stop.

Historically, 82 percent of the starters finish under 12 hours. I finished in 11:30:35 and had a great time. Though it may be counter intuitive, 50 miles was easier than most of the marathons I have run. Other finishers included an individual with a heart transplant and a lady who had back surgery on June 30^th. Truly the day was a celebration of the human spirit!

18 October 2003
James Kavanagh 11:30:35

Near the middle of summer
out came the call
Bob and Roger said cross country is nearing come one, come all.

The table at track practice
had a sign up sheet
it provided the dates and details
for each cross country meet.

We need teams for each category,
the newsletter said
come join us and have fun
Roger's president’s corner said.

While always curious
I possessed a fear
of tripping and falling.
(What! The winner gets beer?)

Yet the event still lured me.
The meet schedule I perused
October 25, Cobbs Hill Park Rochester
I could visit my sister, I mused.

As the date came closer
my naivite showed.
I asked Diane, Amy, and Becky
is the course rocky, rutty, or mowed?

The date arrived quickly
off to Rochester we set.
The drive went by quickly
except for the construction we met.
Time to warm up.
Tom D. said a mile or two
Julie,Patty, and I thought
just one mile will do.

Its time to begin.
Coach Bob said report to the line.
Diane took our picture.
We all looked so fine

The teams were all psyched
to give that ole' college try.
Our team cheer was awesome
and lead by Jerry I.

Off we go o'er
the woods,hills,forest, and prairie.
I tried to keep my sights
on Joann and Gary.

The finish line's in sight
the clock is near.
'Go Jeanne", finish hard!
Cathy,Becky, Diane, my husband, and sister cheer.

I had a great time.
My first cross country race is done.
Thanks to everyone it was great.
I had so much fun!!!!!
Jeanne Chiarmonte

The following individuals were nominated by their groups as an individual who inspired as well as motivated them during the year.

MENTOR AWARD – Toby Mazur

INSPIRATIONAL AWARD – Gloria Santarpia

MOST MISSED BY GROUP – Roger Roll

COACH’S AWARD (female) – Kim Chmielewicz

COACH’S AWARD (Male) – John Lintner

SELF-MOTIVATION AWARD for basically training all year long for a marathon with No One in their group. Male: Mark Gunther, Female: Jane Jontz

DYNAMIC DUO AWARD — Lucy Lorczak/ Leah Neumann

REALLY A RUNNER AWARD — Franklin Davis Jones

LEADERSHIP AWARD – Becky Heuer for organizing her group’s Thursday night workouts.

METRONOME AWARD – Gary Raby Sr. for his uncanny ability to always run on pace.

SANDBAGGER AWARD – Don Seitz for his uncanny ability to just miss moving up a group all year long.

VERIZON AWARD – Cathy Levine for her ability to run intervals and talk on her cell phone at the same time.

BEST NICKNAME AWARD – Joann O’Loughlin – Mojo Jojo

CHECKERS CHUCKLE OF THE YEAR AWARD – HAHM aka Dave Carroll for "Twas the First day of Practice" and "The Man Called HAHM".

TRAILBLAZER AWARD – Mark Gusteferro for all his help at "The Ridge".

Most PRs for female - Amy Fakterowitz

Most PRs for Male  - Fred Lew

OUTSTANDING WEBSITE CONTRIBUTION—Brenda Lane

The year 1969 was a year chock full of momentous events in our nation’s history. Richard Nixon was sworn in as President, and the Viet Nam War was continuing on its nightmarish course. In the world of sports, the Joe Namath Jets and the Miracle Mets both won championships. We put a man on the moon, and Ted Kennedy put his car in the drink at Chappaquiddick. While Liberals went to see "Alice’s Restaurant", "Easy Rider", "Midnight Cowboy", and "Bambi meets Godzilla", Tricky Dick’s newly named Silent Majority watched "True Grit" starring John Wayne. The Chicago Seven were found not guilty, and Charles Manson and his cult went on a killing spree. Woodstock showed the world that Flower Power could work, but then Altamont showed the world that it didn’t work.

Lost in all this was a little noted event that took place in Buffalo, New York, and was perhaps the most momentous event of the whole year. I am of course talking about the founding of one of the early running clubs in Buffalo, the Belle Watlings. Yes, 1969 was the year "The Founder", Richard Sullivan, his brother Ted, and one Norm Wagner, were sitting at the bar at The Place, which is still located across from the Food Co-op on Lexington Ave., and they decided to run a race, since they had recently started running to get in shape. Even after sobering up, they still decided to go through with it. And so they went to Delaware Park and, starting at the fire hydrant next to the expressway, they had a race that went twice around the meadow. Dick Sullivan won, and back they went to the Place for the Sports Drink of the day, Boilermakers (not named after the race in Utica – that wasn’t around yet).

While discussing the idea of starting an actual running club, they decided they needed a name for it. Sitting nearby was one Charlie Lesselles, a non-runner, who suggested the name Belle Watling. Seeing the quizzical looks on Sully and his pal’s faces, he explained that Belle was the red haired madam with the heart of gold who was Rhett Butler’s confidant in the book "Gone With the Wind." The name was perfect, and thus the Place may be the place where the first seeds of the Running Boom were born in Buffalo.

I think of these roots of the Belle Watlings at this time because I recently ran in the 28^th annual running of the Founders Day Race, held in honor of that fateful day in 1969 when Sully and friends ran twice around the park. The race still starts and ends at the Belle Watling Fire Hydrant, and some people consider it the top race of the year in the Eastern United States. Some people feel Buffalo should have gotten the Long Distance Running Hall of Fame because of this race, instead of Utica. Some people consider this the only true Runner of the Year race. Of course by some people, I mean Dick Sullivan and his brother Ted.

The highlight of The Founders Day Race is the awarding of The Founders Day Trophy, which has been won by the likes of Jack Meegan, Dave Bogdan, Fran Emerling, Jack O’Sullivan, Diane McGuire, and Yours Truly. It is a much sought after honor, and it was rumored that even the Buffalo Bills thought of entering the Founders Day Race in 1995 in order to win this trophy, since they couldn’t win the Super Bowl.

Part of the purpose for writing a monthly column for the Checkers Chatter is to give the reader a taste of what running was like back in the seventies. Therefore I am going to reprint a story I wrote about the running of the third annual Founders Day Race, which was held on Thursday, June 15, 1978. During the late seventies, one of my good running buddies was Jim Caher, who was Deputy Corporation Council for the city of Buffalo, and a member in good standing of Checkers. His wife, Sharon, was Editor of The North Buffalo Rocket, a fine neighborhood weekly paper, with a circulation of 18,000, and probably actually read by three of those people who got the paper thrown on their doorsteps for free. Being that Sharon and Jim both ran, the Rocket became a place that running related articles could appear. Bob Atanasio, a local runner who practically lived at Delaware Park, wrote a weekly column called "Delaware Park Beat" in which he would write of what was going on with the running community, or express his opinions about the world, from morality to hedonism. It was quite a column.

I also wrote articles now and again, which were usually along the lines of a runners society column about races and events, and believe it or not, written with a humorous bent. The following was one such story, and should give the reader an idea of some of the runners from 1978, and what they were capable of. You will note that Joe Jordan is mentioned, and for those who do not know, he is the owner of Checkers Bar on Hertel Ave., and the founder of the Checkers AC. The story was under the headline "Prestigious and well known ‘Bounders Day Race’ was a huge Success", and can be found on page six of the June 21, 1978 issue of the North Buffalo Rocket. Jim Caher, being a lawyer, would read my articles first, just to be certain no one could be sued for libel. So read on, and hopefully enjoy.

Just a big Checkers thank you to all of the following members who helped at the Casino Niagara Marathon water stop. Rob Loesch, Michelle Rioux, Kathy Melling, Bob Kolodziej, Fred Lew, Michael Hardy, Greg Lavis and son, Matt Glynn, Brendan Hickey, Peter Sawicz, Tony Garrow, Kevin Hicks, Ed Mills, Eileen Leary, Tom Baroni, and Dr. Joe Antkowiak.

Special thanks to Dave Szafran who organized getting the water tables, Gatorade, garbage cans, bags, and shirts for the volunteers. To Chris Ankrum for bringing his tent, (EVEN THOUGH HE HOGGED ALL MY CAMERA TIME FOR CHANNEL 7), and to Diane Sardes for taking all the great pictures, along with Joan Crouse. In addition, special thanks go out to my good friend Vicki Mitchell for bringing the entire UB cross-country team to help out after they did their own training run. Even though the weather was awful, the turnout was unbelievable. Roger A. Roll, President Checkers A.C.

P.S. My apologies to anyone I failed to mention. I am still a little water logged.

Special helper ribbon—John Moore for helping with the race calendar.

Good eater ribbon — Rick Queeno for eating right after racing instead of cooling down.

I can dress myself ribbon — Edye Radice for always having on color co-coordinating running wear.

Great performance ribbon — Eileen D'Arcy for working so hard at track with her group.

Cheerleader ribbon — Mary Roll for her years of support at XC and races.

Cheerleader ribbon — Bonnie Bathurtst for her voice at road races and coming out to the XC races to cheer Checkers members.

Special person ribbon — Michelle Bauman for her support for helping Gloria Santarpia after the loss of Gloria's husband.

Janie Piemonte, President of the Board of Directors for Kevin Guest House, receives a check for $1,500 from Checkers’ A.C. President Roger A. Roll at the Kevin House Board meeting at Roswell Park Hospitial. Proceeds came from profits of The Buffalo Mile.

I’m finding more and more there exists much more kindness, wisdom , beauty in this life than at first meets the eye. However, to fully see it - to keep it from slipping past - I’m also finding you must not only be watchful, you must also be in an appropriate state of mind; right mindful as some say.

Apparently I was in that state at the Lebros 5K this past September. It had it’s usual race for kids, kids oriented activities and entertainment that included a jester, Nels Cremean. I happened to be between talking to friends so I watched his act. Near the end he presented a poem…a true gem that is very fitting to the situation we sometimes are in as runners. I was so impressed, I asked Nels about it. He explained he had adapted it from a poem by an unknown author, and yes, he would allow publishing it in our newsletter.

So here it is……

If you think you are beaten, you are.

If you think you dare not, you don’t.

If you want to win but think you can’t,

It’s almost a cinch you won’t.

If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost,

For in the end you’ll find

Success comes from more than talent,

It’s a matter of heart and mind.

Some people quit when the going gets tough.

"It’s just too hard," they cry.

But winners get up when they fall down,

And always are willing to try.

Think that you can and you will.

Remember it’s up to you.

The possibilities are endless.

You can do whatever you choose.

So have a positive attitude,

Give your best from the start,

And most of all have courage

To always follow your heart.

by Nels Cremean from In Jest (www.injest.com) adapted from a poem by an unknown author Contributed by Paul Pietraszewski

'MARATHON MONK' COMPLETES ANCIENT RUNNING RITUAL
TOKYO (Sept 25, 03) - A Buddhist priest dubbed the "marathon monk" has completed an ancient running ritual in the remote Japanese mountains that took seven years and covered a distance equivalent to a trip round the globe, wearing only a flowing white robe and straw sandals.
    The 44-year old monk, Genshin Fujinami, returned Thursday from his 24,800-mile spiritual journey in the Hiei mountains, a range of five peaks that rise above the ancient capital of Kyoto.
    Dressed in his handmade sandals and robe, with a straw raincoat draped over his head, Fujinami was greeted at the end of his journey by a crowd of worshippers, who knelt to receive his blessings, said an official at Enryakuji Hoshuin, the temple that is guardian of the grueling tradition.  "I entrusted everything to God. I am satisfied," Fujinami was quoted as saying.
    Since 1885, only 46 other so-called "marathon monks" of the Tendai sect have survived the ritual, which dates to the eighth century.  The last monk to complete it was in 1994.
    Traditionally, any monk, or gyoja, who can't continue to the end must take his own life, either by hanging or disembowlment. Contributed by Alan Wrobel

A lot of people have been approaching me lately, asking what I have done this year with my running that has made such a difference. While most people consider running an individual sport, I could never have accomplished my goals this year without the help of some really incredible people.

When I first dipped under 19 at St. Gregs in June, I was happy for about 3 days. That is, until I found out that I had been moved up into a new group. I liked my old group. It was comfortable, like an old pair of shoes. And as most of us know, the first day in a new group is the worst especially if you are unlucky enough to have it fall on a day we are doing goal pace. Lucky for me though, I ended up in a group that would make all the difference in the world. There are very few people in this world I would willingly go with on a Thursday night and run 2000 repeats, but with group 22 I would. What an eclectic bunch we are, but boy do we have some good laughs. You better believe I am going to work extra hard next year so that I can stay with them.

Then there is Bob. I would always listen to what Bob Carroll had to say at track, but sort of in a passive way. This year, I started to listen and absorb. I listened when Bob talked about how hard it is to run a good marathon and a fast 5K in the same year. So I got rid of the marathon. I listened to him talk about setting goals and set just one. I even listened (while cursing under my breath) when he absolutely would not let me give up in a workout. Then another Bob started showing up at track. Not being from the area, I was not sure about the great coaching history behind this man. Bob Ivory would come to Crosby field and watch all the groups and then call me over.…"I gotta tell you something" he would say. This man had me pegged. It was as if he could watch me run and know what I was thinking at the same time. Then I started running into him a lot. It was almost as if it was some divine intervention. I would be out running with the dog and there he would be sitting in a chair under a tree in Delaware Park. I would stop, get some advice, listen to a story or two, and boy would he make me think. He would tell me to stop going to races looking around and deciding who was going to beat me before the gun went off. He would tell me that the only thing preventing me from running faster times is in my head. I’ve known that for years, but sometimes it just takes the right person telling you something to get you to listen. He says I am the only one who still listens to him. I honestly think more people should.

To all these people and many others in Checkers I say thanks for helping me reach my goals, for all the fun workouts, and for helping me to realize that after 24 years of running, there is still a lot to learn. I’m already setting goals for next year. A year ago I said I would retire if I ever broke 19. I don’t think so. I’m not ready yet. I have to break 18 next June.

Congratulations to Betsy Schultz who won the State University of New York Athletic Conference women’s cross country individual title. Her winning time of 22:50.9 over 6,000 meters was more than 21 seconds faster than the runner-up. Her time helped the SUNY Cortland team finish second out of ten teams at the championship.

Mike Heitzenrater 0:25:26 1/M25-29

Thomas Proctor, IV 0:25:35 2/M25-29

Kevin Burke 0:26:28 1/M30-34

Joseph F. Biasillo 0:26:57 1/M35-39

Rich Grimm 0:27:28 2/M40-44

James R. Waldron 0:28:14 3/M40-44

Ted W. Paget 0:28:38 1/M50-54

Thomas J. Dessauer 0:29:10 3/M35-39

Rebecca E. Heuer 0:29:51 1/F35-39

Stephen Forrestel 0:29:58 2/M50-54

Fred G. Lew 0:30:12 3/M50-54

Debra Morris-Allen 0:31:04 1/F40-44

Amy Fakterowitz 0:31:19 2/F35-39

Fran H. Emmerling 0:31:21 2/M55-59

Joanie E. Hays 0:33:14 3/F35-39

Jane C. Wright 0:34:39 3/F40-44

John W. Moore 0:34:52 3/M60-64

Diane Sardes 0:35:27 1/F50-54

Joseph G. Antkowiak 0:36:53 2/M65-69

Peggy L. Towers 0:37:06 2/F50-54

Patricia Kunselman 0:37:37 1/F55-59

Sandi J. Ludwa 0:38:51 3/F55-59

Edye Radice 0:47:19 1/F65-69

Helen M. Bueme 0:51:49 1/F70-74

Dennis Bauer 11/1

Fran Emmerling 11/1

Kingsley Haas 11/1

Sara Hays 11/1

Karen Caruso 11/2

Fred Lew 11/4

Dave MacPhee 11/4

Lianna Morahan 11/4

Jessica Nowak 11/4

Joseph Priore 11/4

Thomas Miller 11/6

Mark Alessi 11/7

Henri Kursten 11/7

Brenda Lane 11/8

Sandi Ludwa 11/8

Tom Calcaterra 11/10

Kristin Gregoire 11/11

Emilie Schneider 11/11

Melissa Taylor 11/12

Kim Truesdell 11/12

James Heron 11/15

Scott Horrigan 11/16

Robert Liebers 11/16

Thomas Meka 11/16

Mary Carol Penfold 11/16

Molly Richards 11/17

Bob Truesdell 11/17

Nicholas Baer 11/18

Joseph Biasillo 11/18

Martha Kuhn 11/18

John Noe 11/18

Ramona Nowak 11/18

Samantha Ellwood 11/19

Gregory Hyatt 11/19

Michael Harrison 11/20

Bill Donnelly 11/21

Kathy Melling 11/21

Joseph Jacob 11/22

Brenda Spillman 11/22

Steven J. Woodard 11/22

Kristen Jacob 11/23

Douglas Moreland 11/26

Betsy Schultz 11/27

Joseph Kaszubski 11/28

Christopher Lord 11/28

Kristin Ortman 11/28

Paul Hassall 11/29

GETTING TO KNOW YOU,

by Paul Wandel

Checkers Interview with Maria Baer

Residence: Amherst, NY

Children: Nicholas (18) Freshman/ U. of Chicago, Tamara (22) Medical School/ Boston

Occupation: MD at Roswell Park Cancer Institute

Checkers Member: 2 Yrs./ Family Membership

Running: 6 Yrs.

Interests: Reading, Music, Skiing, and Movies.

Maria Baer has rediscovered a sport she first met almost 30 years ago. Following a lengthy disconnect, she now devotedly laces up her running shoes with a brand new enthusiasm. "I was encouraged when I watched my son Nick run on the Amherst Cross Country Team and compete in local 5K races." Nick Baer was under the mentoring of Amherst Middle Head Coach, Amy Fakterowitz. "Chin Lee was also an early encouragement. About 5 years ago, Alan and I started running 5K races."

Eventually, the longer distances attracted the Baer Family. "We entered the 2002 Buffalo Marathon Relay (with Kathy Augustine)." That experience inspired them to test their ability with the marathon. "Nick inspired us to travel to the Chicago Marathon on Oct 12, and we began our training last June."

Maria soon realized major differences. "It was a big leap from the 5K! We all joined the Fleet Feet Training Group." They soon benefited from the program structure and coaching of Vicki Mitchell. "We developed great friendships and enjoyed a cohesive group. We often trained along the Niagara Parkway (7AM) in Fort Erie. Distances ranged from 14- 20 miles." Running a 30 KM race in Cleveland also helped to prepare the Baer Family for Chicago.

Four months of Marathon Training paid off. Both Alan and Maria managed a very successful finish at Chicago. Son Nick scored a very impressive 2:58. "We are all headed to Boston next Spring to watch and support Nick." Chicago, 2004? "We look forward to running it again, and maybe Tamara will race with us."

Checkers has had a major impact upon the Baer Family. "Our membership has been great! It has been a real family experience. Coach Bob has been terrific, and he is very encouraging. Our 5K times have dropped!" Maria’s PR is now 24:58, while Alan is at 22:42. Both attribute their sharper times to the regular club track workouts. Goals for next year include better 5K and marathon times. "Speed and consistency is what I seek."

Maria does not hesitate when asked about personal goals she receives from running. "Physically, I feel great, and I enjoy staying in shape! The mental discipline of running has carried over to other areas of my life, including work. It helps my mental focus, persistence, perseverance and finishing." Maria highlights a major benefit of goal setting. "I have the ability to set a goal and meet it." She encourages others to be…"inspired and go after your own milestones and complete your personal challenges."

Finally, she muses about running, in general. "Running has had a major positive impact on my quality of life. It has helped me in achieving goals and developing and maintaining friendships." Congratulations to the Maria and Alan Baer Family, and to their continued success.

Congratulations Vicki The Western New York Chapter of the Cortland College Alumni Association presented Vicki Mitchell, ’91, with its "Alum of the Year" award on October 10, 2003 at The Fairdale Banquet Center in Amherst. This is the eight year the chapter has presented its award to a Cortland graduate living in Western New York. Jim Kenney, ’72, nominated Mitchell. Individuals are chosen by a panel of past winners based on their contributions to the WNY community. For more information on this seven-time NCAA national champion, please visit: www.ubathletics.buffalo.edu/crosscountry/coaches/mitchell.shtml

Arielle Januszkiewicz Fall Classic, 3.1 19:44

Karin Caldwell Lebro's Fall Classic 5k 28:46:00

John Tamburlin Lebro's Fall Classic 5k 24:26:00

Paul Pietraszewski Lebro's Fall Classic 5k 22:45

John Lintner Lebro's Fall Classic 5k 24:24:00

David Carroll Upstate XC #2 -  5k 17:54

Mike Rogers Upstate XC #2 -  5k 18:08

Amy Fakterowitz Upstate XC #2 -  5k 19:57

Ralph Zimmerman Upstate XC #2 5k 21:51

Peter Hogan Upstate XC #2 5k 20:37

Kathy Klemenich Joanne Severin-Cinelli 5k 23:15

Jon Melnik Joanne Severin-Cinelli 5k 17:28

Bill George Joanne Severin-Cinelli 5k 22:22

Kieran O'Loughlin Linda Yalem 5k 20:15

Patricia Hilbert Linda Yalem 5k 23:12

Amy Fakterowitz Linda Yalem 5k 18:27

Greg Lavis Linda Yalem 5k 20:08

Gloria Santarpia Linda Yalem 5k 28:59:00

Gary Raby Jr college racex-c 8,000m 28:57:00

Amy Fakterowitz Parkway 10K 10k 39:56:00

Joann O'Loughlin Parkway 10K 10k 42:19:00

Patty Webb Parkway 10K 10k 45:05:00

Matthew Glynn Parkway 10K 10k 31:42:00

Bill George Parkway 10K 10k 49:18:00

Mark Gunther Steamtown Marathon 3:24:51

Henri Kursten Chicago Marathon 2:50:19

Henri Kursten Chicago 1/2 Marathon 1:22:02

Henri Kursten Chicago 15K 1:34:11

Henri Kursten Chicago 20 mile 2:06:53

Greg Lavis Upstate XC#3 8K XC 34:48:00

Thomas M. Miller Run for Hospice 5K 19:13

Karl Shallowhorn Columbus Marathon 3:30:38

Ron Snavely Columbus Marathon 3:14:22

Peter Hogan Cobb Hill, 4 miles XC 25:55:00

Toby Mazur Casino Niagara 1/2 Marathon 1:54:11

Greg Lavis Charles McDougald 5k 19:44

Kieran O'Loughlin Charles McDougald 5k 19.3

Roger A Roll Charles McDougald 5k 20:44

Beverly Brown Joe's Race 5k 25:08:00

Anthony Garrow Ironman Florida 11:37:00

Kathie Evans Augustyn Bob Ivory 5k 24:12:00

Doug Moreland Bob Ivory 5k 17:42

Allison Bartkowiak Depew Lancaster Trot 5k 23:57

Karl Shallowhorn YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 32:49:00

Toby Mazur YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 38:03:00

Peter Hogan YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 31:58:00

John Tamburlin YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 41:05:00

James Heron YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 32:43:00

Roger A. Roll YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 33:02:00

Kieran O'Loughlin YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 33:15:00

Joann O'Loughlin YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 33:17:00

Paul Pietraszewski YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 38:12:00

Patty Webb YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 35:13:00

Kathie Evans Augustyn Turkey Trot 8k 39:32:00

Amy Fakterowitz YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 31:19:00

Paula Arcara YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 42:26:00

John Bauers YMCA Turkey Trot 8k 42:57:00

Check out the web site for many, many more pictures, thanks to photographer Diane Sardes, and web master (mistress?) Brenda Lane.

Don E. Seitz 0:17:18 1/M40-44

Ron J. Snavely 0:18:01 1/M35-39

Amy Fakterowitz 0:18:14 1/F35-39

Dave C. Ward 0:18:30 2/M50-54

Jerry P. Mangan 0:19:51 2/M40-44

David J. Szafran 0:20:33 3/M40-44

Rick Queeno 0:20:46 3/M35-39

Garry R. Soehner 0:23:21 1/M55-59

Michele A. Bauman 0:24:36 2/F40-44

Edye P. Radice 0:28:06 2/F60-69

Fran Rowe 0:29:03 3/F60-69

Trey Gardner 0:18:53 1/M30-34

Billy Flynn 0:20:54 2/M45-49

Mark Kelly 0:21:08 3/M45-49

Kathie Evans Augustyn 0:24:30 2/F45-49

Edna Hyer 0:30:53 1/F65-69

Gary Raby, Sr 0:20:19 2/M50-54

Peter Forrestel 0:20:35 3/M50-54

Gene Wells 0:22:59 1/M55-59

James Collins 0:23:34 2/M55-59

Garry Soehner 0:23:52 3/M55-59

Sandra Hebeler 0:26:18 1/F50-54

Beverly Brown 0:26:21 1/F55-59

Rosalie Marino-Soehner 0:26:30 2/F50-54

Edye Radice 0:29:20 1/F65-69

Fran Rowe 0:29:27 1/F60-64

Karin Caldwell 0:31:10 1/F30-34

Daniel Dengler 0:14:41 2/M45-49

Larry Krajewski 0:14:49 1/M50-54

Michael Harrison 0:15:30 1/M55-59

Jennifer Filipski 0:22:43 3/F20-24

Edna Hyer 0:23:31 2/F65-69

Charles Schaffstall 0:25:32 2/M 70+

3:27:51.0 Appenheimer, Tom 2/34 M55-59

3:42:07.7 Petry, Christy 3/26 F20-24

1:38:19.7 Bergman, Jerry 2/22 M60-64

1:41:04.9 D'arcy-Smith, Eileen 2/76 F45-49

Matthew Glynn 69 2:34:41

Pamela V. London 3872 3:40:27

Cathy M. Haight 9269 4:04:24

Andrew Moynihan 13:02:14

Anthony Garrow - 11:37:00

Bob Giardini 13:21:03

Jeff Tracy 12:59:0

I want to sincerely thank everyone for this award (2003 Tom Steele Award), and for so much more that the club has given to me. I came to Checkers at a very difficult time in my life. I was feeling very alone and very needy. Without getting overly sentimental (even though I could), the club gave me an immediate circle of friends, sustaining me through that period, and all of my subsequent "ups and downs." Your friendship is what I am thanking you for, especially Diane Sardes, Donna Carr, and Mike Schiavone. And it is not just me. I’ve seen you do it over and over again. People come to this club for many reason, and you accept them, without question or judgment, for who they are and what they are. You enfold people, and you make life better for it.

Thank you. Joan