RandyStep.com - Obsessed Runner (50/page)

2016-08-17 - There are good days ahead!

randy sticks For those of us increasing our weekly mileage for a long fall race ahead, feel good runs are few and far between and we often wake up up as tired as when we went to sleep. The good runs will come when we finally plateau and groove into the mileage, the great runs will come as we taper and sharpen, the real reward comes on race day. Hang tough, you are not alone out there, it just seems like it. When you line up race day you will be joining the thousands of us that have been out there silently suffering with you, all hoping to experience greatness!

Get out and suffer and the reward will come,

Randy Step, an Admitted obsessed runner who always looks forward to the race day reward.

PS: We are loving this HOT, HOT summer... but we won't lie, it does help get us excited for beautiful fall days! Join us for fall running in the apple orchards at Almar Orchards in Flushing, MI on October 2, 2016. Hard cider, running and an all you can eat pancake breakfast... we're in! runscrumpy.com

PS:GOBBLE GOBBLE, runners! It is never too early to plan your festive family and fun filled turkey day! Join us Thanksgiving Day, November 24th, before all the turkey and pies for a fun family 5K and 1K in downtown Ann Arbor, MI! NEW for 2016, medals to all finishers and much more! Don't miss the TURKEY TROT!

2019-08-11 - Running Green

randy dwd We are blessed to have chosen a passion that has low environmental impact and gets us out to enjoy the natural beauty of our world. When I think of sports like golf, I see power mowers, fertilizer and millions of gallons of water being used, Even swimming can mean heated, treated pools. The good news is that there is far more awareness of our impact on the planet and all sports are seeking ways to lower this impact, from environmentally friendly ways to grow and maintain grass to solar heating for pools. Here at RF Events we are working to divert event trash from the landfill as we work towards the goal of Zero Waste. We hit our record for the year last weekend at the Legend Trail Run with over 97% landfill diversion thanks to our Team Zero Waste volunteers, our Zero Czar Jeff Jackson and help from Can'd Aid.

Run, and feel good about it,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is proud of the RF Events Team.

PS: TIME TO JOIN THE GROOVIEST CREW OF THE YEAR! Run Woodstock Roadie registration is NOW OPEN! Positions available from the first tent up Wednesday, September 7th to the last campsite is cleaned up on September 11th! Check it out HERE!

woodstock roadieshirt

PS:GOBBLE GOBBLE, runners! It is never too early to plan your festive family and fun filled turkey day! Join us Thanksgiving Day, November 24th, before all the turkey and pies for a fun family 5K and 1K in downtown Ann Arbor, MI! NEW for 2016, medals to all finishers and much more! Don't miss the TURKEY TROT!

2016-08-03 - Winner, Winner, Turkey Dinner

randy trex We have some fun brainstorming days back here in the event office, thinking of ways to make your race experience the best it can be. Our number one goal is to produce events you can trust your training to, with a safe, accurate, and timed course. We then add a hoaky theme, fun swag and perhaps beer and wine. Heck, we all need to be rewarded for our efforts!

Today we finalized plans for the Ann Arbor Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving day, the 11th annual! Plans like pumpkin pies, 5 deep in 5 year age groups, medals to all entrants and Turkeys to the overall winners! The hot chocolate aid station is back and of course... Santa! Run, then eat all day. The turkey trot, perhaps the greatest tradition in running outside of the Olympic games!

Run for the turkeys,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is thankful to have fun stuff on the calendar, events that get us all out the door training!

PS: Speaking of thankful, at RF Events we are forever thankful to our incredible volunteers... speaking of volunteers, what are you doing this weekend? Come play in the woods with us at The Legend, Saturday, August 6th in Laingsburg, MI! Volunteers receive a sweet volunteer shirt, $30 toward a future RF Events' Event, a fun day and a million thanks!

PS: The volunteer fun doesn't end there! Ever dreamed of working at a vineyard? Now is your chance! Running Between the Vines on August 13th, 2016 in Jackson, MI at the gorgeous Sandhill Crane Vineyards is a gorgeous day with great vibes! Learn more HERE!

2016-07-28 - The elusive rave run

Some runs just suck, some runs are OK but I just had my first fast, fun and amazing feeling run in a while and can honestly say, it was worth the wait. Rave runs like these, sometimes few and far between, keep getting us out the door. Kind of like pulling the slot machine handle over and over, or casting a line just one more time, hoping for the magic to strike.

May you hit the jackpot on your next run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who's faith in running is renewed and is pleasantly sore and smiling. (Few things is life leave you feeling this way J)

PS: HARD CIDER, PANCAKES, RUNNING! Do we have your attention? Head to Almar Orchards in Flushing, MI on October 2, 2016 for the Scrumpy Skedaddle 5K and 10K! Medals and mugs to all finishers, long sleeve cotton shirts to all entrants, hard cider tasting and all you can eat pancake breakfast at the afterparty! RUNSCRUMPY.COM

PS: Come play in the woods with us on August 6, 2016! The Legend 5 Mile and Half Marathon at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, MI takes you through 2600 acres of hardwood forest, prairie grassland, and around several Michigan lakes. NEW for 2016, medals for ALL distances! The Legend continues,

2016-07-20 - Take hot weather runs seriously!

randy running Most of us are mired in our lifestyles with responsibilities of family, jobs, bills, and piles of unfinished work and projects that can stop us in our tracks as we jump out of bed for the daily run. It is as if the enemy has thwarted our attack on this new day. We may awake to run plans that get sidetracked within minutes. The truth is, getting out the door is never easy, and at times, just getting started requires a super human feat. You have blown through that barrier plenty of times, the trick is to keep up the momentum and know thy enemy!

That said, the weather is never a reason to skip a run. As you know, I love extremes, especially when it comes to the weather we run in. Life in the middle of the road will get you run down! When its 10 below or over 90, a simple run becomes extreme and requires planning and thought. It also comes with a bit of danger, but you may have noticed, all the cool stuff is dangerous so no need to avoid it, just take it seriously and pack enough water.

Run for the shade,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who will be running short shaded loops on trails, never far from a lake to jump in.

PS: Come play in the woods with us on August 6, 2016! The Legend 5 Mile and Half Marathon at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, MI takes you through 2600 acres of hardwood forest, prairie grassland, and around several Michigan lakes. NEW for 2016, medals for ALL distances! The Legend continues, enter if you dare!

PS: Join us in Jackson, MI on August 13th for Michigan's most beautiful half marathon! Running Between the vines is a high class run with a high class finish party! Shirts and wine tasting (with snack food pairings!) to all entrants, finisher's medals and glasses to all finishers! RUNVINES.COM

2016-07-13 - Savor the pain!

randy running Today's run was, to say the least, difficult. From the first step to the last, including the 3 times I had to walk a bit to catch my breath, it took all I had to keep moving forward. The planned 8 miles ended at 5.8. The pace was pathetic, the effort to accomplish so little on the other hand, felt heroic, far more so than the finish of some marathons I have run. This painful struggle will no doubt be the highlight of my day. Only those who run can possibly understand why I'm wearing a smile.

Savor the pain, you worked hard to feel this bad,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, feeling fulfilled by my morning run, and happy not to be going through this life in a couch potato haze.

PS: Come play in the woods with us on August 6, 2016! The Legend 5 Mile and Half Marathon at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, MI takes you through 2600 acres of hardwood forest, prairie grassland, and around several Michigan lakes. NEW for 2016, medals for ALL distances! The Legend continues, enter if you dare!

2016-07-07 - Get out the door!

randy running As runners, we are far more aware of our health status than the average American; we are in touch with our body because we ask a lot of it daily and can tell when things are even a bit out of whack. I continually talk to runners who have found out serious health issues in their early stages because of this awareness, certainly an advantage to get things back on the right track, perhaps saving our life. The same insight makes runners good patients, we will do what it takes to recover and get back out there.

That said, the same goes for our diet, as runners we find out what foods work for us, and the fact is the ones that do are pretty healthy. We naturally avoid high fat meals that don't allow us to get out for a run, either from sluggishness or digestive issues. Running, the sport that keeps on giving, as long as you keep getting out the door.

So, get out the door!

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who feels that I am coached through this life by my running!

PS: Come play in the woods with us on August 6, 2016! The Legend 5 Mile and Half Marathon at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, MI takes you through 2600 acres of hardwood forest, prairie grassland, and around several Michigan lakes. NEW for 2016, medals for ALL distances! The Legend continues, enter if you dare!

PS: The August fun continues at the Red Carpet Run! Join us on the 26th in Detroit for a Friday night 5K and party with a CHAMPAGNE FINISH! Shirts to all entrants, NEW for 2016 medals to all finishers, and a (filled!) custom finisher's champagne flute. Join us for a rockin' night! redcarpetrun.com

2016-06-29 - Permission to run then watch TV

randy running The Track and Field Olympic trials start on Friday, perhaps the only legitimate excuse to turn on a TV or live feed on a summer, 4th of July weekend. Might I suggest an early run each day to ward away a bit of the guilt that comes with this pleasure? What can be more inspiring than watching America's best in a final heat as we fire up the grill and celebrate our freedom on independence day!

Let freedom ring,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who needs to figure out how to use the remote to turn on the TV ... Every 4 years.

PS: Come play in the woods with us on August 6, 2016! The Legend 5 Mile and Half Marathon at Sleepy Hollow State Park in Laingsburg, MI takes you through 2600 acres of hardwood forest, prairie grassland, and around several Michigan lakes. NEW for 2016, medals for ALL distances! The Legend continues, enter if you dare!

2016-06-23 - Permission to blow off your run today

randy running We are only as strong as our weakest link. This is a hard concept for us passionate runners, when running seems so complete on its own. The reality is that we use the same muscles through the same range of motion, causing imbalance and reduced flexibility. One false step out of our normal range of motion or a strength requirement beyond what our running calls for and we are toast. So, I give you permission to blow off the day's run, ONLY, if you replace it with a decent session of core work like yoga, strength training, planks, lunges or similar torture.

Run complete,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner with some weak, rusty links in my chain that need work, dang.

PS: With 2 sessions of yoga during Run Woodstock weekend our chain will be rockin', dig? http://runwoodstock.com/

PS: Get a workout and a healthy meal in! Join us for a FREE event, June 27th.. The Big Salad Raffle Run! Come out and run or walk some miles with us and try for your chance at a FREE PAIR of Brooks Shoes as well as other awesome raffle items! Items include Big Salad gift cards, RF Events Gift Cards and FUN SWAG! 1-6 miles. the more miles... the more chances you have at WINNING! Grab a friend and RSVP Here!

2016-06-15 - Running Saves Lives

randy running No matter how advanced we become as a society there will be dangerous situations where your level of fitness could determine life or death. I was once in an accident situation where one person stayed to stabilize an injured person while one ran for help, no cell service was available and time was critical. Rescue situations occur daily where the strength and endurance of the first responders save lives. That said, there will be situations that occur where we become the first responders, this might happen while out on a trail or remote road run where we come across a situation where our strength or speed could make all the difference.

Get out for a run, it may prepare you to save a life, perhaps your own,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is reminded daily by tragic news stories that my fitness could make the difference between being the one needing to be helped and the one able to help others.

PS: Get a workout and a healthy meal in! Join us for a FREE event, June 27th.. The Big Salad Raffle Run! Come out and run or walk some miles with us and try for your chance at a FREE PAIR of Brooks Shoes as well as other awesome raffle items! Items include Big Salad gift cards, RF Events Gift Cards and FUN SWAG! 1-6 miles. The more miles... the more chances you have at WINNING! Grab a friend and RSVP Here!

PS: This is your best chance to get your team into the elusive Dances With Dirt Hell Relay on September 24, 2016! The goat opened up a few coveted spots for the wildest running day of the year, grab 5 of your friends and join us for an extremely fun day in the dirt! To grab up one of the spots before they are gone REGISTER HERE! Need more info? Check it out HERE!

2016-06-08 - Get out the door

anna Baby Goat here, the Head Goat's youngest 'kid' and admitted "not that obsessed runner". The goat is off celebrating his birthday so I thought I would slip into his hooves and ramble on!

GET OUT THE DOOR! The goat (Randy) has been writing midweek e-mails trying to motivate your butt out the door for years! I've rolled my eyes at my dad, and the "GET OUT THE DOOR" mantra more times than I can count... but I'm going to let you in on a little secret... GET OUT THE DOOR! I've been in a bit of a rut with my running, I am 16 weeks into a training plan and I'm beat! Last week I sucked it up and finally boarded the get out the door train... I hate to say he told me so, but my miles are up, my spirits are up, and I think I'm on my way out of this rut! Was there a lot of walking involved? Sure! Did I randomly PR a 10K on a Wednesday? YUP! It doesn't matter what you achieve out there, but I urge you to put your shoes and a smile on, don't look too hard at your watch or your schedule and have some FUN!

The Baby Goat, who is campaigning to make running FUN again in 2016.

PS: Did you know the Red Carpet Run was the brainchild of this little goat? Join me for a rockin' 5K, Friday night, August 26th in Detroit! Loud music, glamour, the star treatment... and a CHAMPAGNE FINISH! Shirts to all entrants, custom medals and (filled!) champagne flutes to all finishers! redcarpetrun.com

PS: We want YOU to volunteer at the Canton Liberty Run in Canton, MI on June 18th! This silly, themed run is a great way to kick off your Saturday! Volunteers receive a shirt, $30 voucher towards a future RF Events' event and an invitation to our super secret volunteer party!

2016-06-01 - Motivate your butt out the door

randy running The goal of my midweek running rant is to motivate your butt out the door. Perhaps reading some feel good run related stuff will do just that:

There is a new single track trail to explore! RF Events recently donated $1,000 to help fund a well pump for the new trail head at Waterloo Recreation Area. The trail was made possible by a grant from DTE. Ribbon Cutting is June 17th, this is exciting stuff!

RF events is also on a mission in 2016 to get closer to Zero Waste at our events! We had a great start to our Zero Waste program Trail Race weekend. Of the nearly 500 total pounds of waste we processed, less than 50 ended up in the dumpster! The Zero Waste Team is full for Flirt with Dirt this weekend but be sure to check out joining Team Zero Waste HERE so you can get involved with this green team in the future!

Run, volunteer, run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is feeling thankful.

PS: I'm 60! I plan to party all year and I hope to see you out there! Check out my birthday special below.. an awesome chance to get into the wildest running day of the year!

2016-05-25 - Enjoy a bit of "Still Life"

randy running A line I use often, "listen to your body, except when you're in a race!" The reality is that when racing you flirt with your limits, your body will often yell, "back off!" This inner struggle might go on 'til the finish, and perhaps end with a personal best! (I'm not saying to ignore increasing pain from potential injury, that, you pay attention to!) However, when it comes to the daily run, your body is your partner, when it throws fatigue and lethargy at you, this is not a time to push through it or the hole (depression) you are digging might swallow you. Give it a break, take some time to look around at this amazing world in slow motion, enjoy a bit of "still life". Tomorrow, or perhaps the day after, our mind and body will be ready to put the hammer down again.

Run smart, run forever,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... Who recently realized, you can't really look carefully at the delicate pedals of a flower on the run, even at a slow pace.

PS: Speaking of taking the time to look around at this amazing world, consider joining us as a volunteer! Flirt With Dirt in Novi, MI on June 4th is the perfect opportunity to give back and enjoy the sport we love from the sidelines! All volunteers receive a great shirt, $30 voucher towards a future RF Events' race, appreciation from race participants and a sweet invite to our super secret annual volunteer party! Check it out HERE!

2016-05-18 - Run and amaze yourself

randy sunglasses I go back to certain themes in my midweek running rant because they bear repeating. OK, the truth is, I need to hear them again. Our running is ours alone, we should NEVER compare ourselves to others. Our genetics, our past medical history, what we do outside of our running, for pleasure, for work, all come into play, we are a study of one. A 10 minute pace run with your body might in reality be a more of an impressive athletic accomplishment than a 7 minute pace by someone else. When we let ego into our running, we not only risk injury, we are not true to ourselves, we diminish the essence of what is special about our running life.

Run and amaze yourself,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who cheers on each race finisher ... because it's impossible to know whose victory is the sweetest.

PS: Get out your red, white and plaid! We want YOU to join us June 18th in Canton, MI for the insanely silly Canton Liberty 5K, 10K and 1 Mile parade fun run! Cantonlibertyrun.com

PS: Join us June 4th in Novi, MI, the land of malls and mansions, for a beautiful single track run through the woods, Flirt With Dirt 5K and 10K! You won't believe Novi's hidden gem, Lakeshore Park. We love this low key dirt run and you will too! runflirt.com Get out and run!

2016-05-11 - Savor each day

Remember your mom trying to get you to eat every scrap on your plate by saying, "there are starving people in the world!" ... As if your eating will help someone from starving, but for sure it would piss off a starving person to watch you waste food! So, If you are healthy and able to run and blowing off the run for some lame reason, just think about the injured runners out there who would do almost anything to be in your shoes! Ok, once again as I think about it, your miles won't do a thing for someone who can't run but ... It does piss me off to know you're not doing everything you can to get out the door!

Don't waste the run, or anything else,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, on the mend with a deep understanding of savoring every healthy day.

2016-05-04 - Morning Rush Run

randy sunglasses With all the construction going on, running to work, or at least part of the way to work, is not only an environmentally friendly and rewarding experience but offers an added time management perk if you can escape wasted time in morning traffic. The excuse is often that there is no shower at work. The answer is to shower and prepare for work before you head out on the run, you will need to remember to leave a set of work clothes at the office along with any make up or other prep items you need to look ready for the day. Because sweat is sterile, and you just took a shower, as long as you run in clean running gear, there is no "smell" associated with your workout. Leaving a clean towel at work to dry off the sweat is another item to pack. Even better, leave a set of this stuff at work all the time to give you even more flexibility. And yes, you can put on the dirty stuff to run home in! Don't live close enough? No excuse! Find a park and ride or place a runnable distance from work, perhaps saving parking fees for some of us!

Enjoy the morning "rush",

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who finds myself changing in my car more often than in my home.

PS: Get out of town and escape Michigan Construction season! Join the Dirt Crew in Gnaw Bone, Indiana for a Dirt Dancin' good time on May 14th! toughest 10K in the world, extreme 13.1M, 26.2M, 50K and 50M in the breathtaking natural beauty of the wicked trails in Brown County Indiana. http://dwdgnawbone.com

2016-04-27 - Celebrating 2 million years of obsessed running!

randy sunglasses Humans have been running around the planet for around 2 million years, living on the front lines, chasing down dinner and celebrating the survival of another day. Evolution tweaked us into amazing running machines. My guess is that until the arrival of civilization, women and men both put in 70 to 100 mile weeks of running at a level that today we would call world class. That said, for our running future as a species, it's time to use it or lose it. Let's get out and hammer! It's time to protect what we've been blessed with and pass it on.

Run and evolve to perfection,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... let's call it instinct.

PS: Join us as we celebrate surviving another day next week at Hightail to Ale, a keg party with a 5K warmup! Civilization started with the brewing of barley beer... and that is something to celebrate! hightailtoale.com

2016-04-20 - May you find a route that becomes an old friend

randy sunglasses 30 years ago my friend Jeff Gaft introduced me to Pinckney Recreation Area's Potawatomi Trail, a hilly monster that goes past a dozen lakes in a Pure Michigan wonderland, a trail that to this day continues to beat me up and keep me honest. I find it helps to have a running loop to call your own, a route special to you, a place to run home to. When I run Poto, it brings on a flood of memories. At times I'll remember exactly what I was thinking at the exact same points on the trail, perhaps on a similar day 10 years earlier. These thoughts will often intertwine with whatever my current day's thoughts or worries are and help to ground me and give me answers.

May you find a route that becomes an old friend,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who will be celebrating my 30th year with my old friend Poto this weekend.

PS: Join me with over a thousand of my running friends this weekend on Poto for 5, 13.1, 26.2 or 31 miles of new memories. http://trailmarathon.com/

PS: This is also the weekend of the International Trails In Motion Running Film festival. These 7 short films add up to 2 incredibly motivational and breathtaking hours. Join me Saturday afternoon in Dexter. https://runningfitevents.redpodium.com/trails-in-motion-film-festival After the films, I will head for a beer at the Null Tap House, join me! http://www.nulltaphouse.com/nl/index

2016-04-14 - Obsessed running loser

randy sunglasses I usually get out for a run before attempting to write an inspirational midweek runmail but due to an ugly, medial collateral ligament, I'm composing this at a time when I'm not able to put in miles. I admit it's hard not to feel like a loser and a charleton while writing as the obsessed runner but not to worry, I'll recover and I do have a diversified portfolio to keep up the endorphins and reduce my losses as I've suggested to all of you in past midweeks. I ride a bike, put in laps in the pool and get my yoga buzz on. Perhaps this week's message will be a good reminder for all of us to do our core work and to up the spring miles with a bit of caution. Let this also be a sympathetic message for those of you on the sidelines, you are not alone! That said, for you healthy people, do not use this message as any kind of lame excuse for not getting your butt out the door, putting in the hard work and lining up to test yourself at the weekend races!

Run smart, recover smart,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, even when I'm not able to run.

PS: Join me for a couple hours of inspirational running films, a week from Saturday, April 23rd, 2:30 PM in Dexter, MI, when the Trails In Motion, international trail running film festival comes to Michigan for the first time! Tickets here!

2016-04-06 - Fell off the running wagon? Running will welcome you back!

randy sunglasses We strive for the complete fitness lifestyle, eating healthy, getting in the scheduled runs, workouts, core work, sleep, and getting in the personal best shape of our lives ... The reality for many of us are far too many days with work and family issues that get out of control, leaving us with no time for the workout, skipping meals and skipping sleep. Worse yet, we may follow it up with an overindulgent night out that we trick ourselves into thinking we deserve as the answer to stress reduction or some such nonsense, when we know the reality is ... a deeper hole. Fitness, like freedom, takes constant vigilance and hard work, a lifelong battle with victories and setbacks but always worth every ounce of energy we put forth. Never ever give up, each hard won fitness victory is sweet, and worth a lifetime of struggle. We start again today!

Run again,

Randy Step, an obsessed runner, out there fighting the good fight, just like you.

PS: Need motivation? A running film festival might do the trick. Join me at Trails in Motion, the international trail running film festival as it comes to Dexter, Michigan, Saturday afternoon April 23. Get tickets here!

PS: RF Events is excited to announce its new ZERO WASTE goal! Beginning with our Trail Marathon Weekend event we will be working to present a visibly consistent attempt at recycling with the goal to eventually reach ZERO WASTE! Want to get involved? Check it out here!

2016-03-30 - Martian Motivational

randy sunglasses Over 2,500 kids have logged the required 25 miles to toe the line for their 1.2 mile run at next week's Martian Kids' Marathon. These young athletes are learning long term goal planning and an understanding of delayed gratification, lessons that will take them far past the finish line. Kudos to IronMandy, a key player back here at Mission Control, for her dedication to growing this invaluable program.

Consider joining us as a volunteer at next week's Martian Invasion of Races (5K, 10K, 13.1, 26.2 and Kids' Marathon) The motivational value of helping others accomplish their goals is priceless. Seeing these rock star kids will give you hope for the future of this great country. Plan and accomplish your personal goals with the aid of the $30 event voucher you will get for volunteering! Click HERE to see the out of this world volunteer positions and time slots we have open, or to enter the invasion. The race day April 9th forecast here on Earth is for 55 and partly sunny.. just sayin'!

Run, help others run, race,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner back here at Mission Control where we are up to our A-- in aliens as we get ready for the final countdown.

PS: Martian is not the only opportunity to help others run! Click HERE to check out all of our upcoming volunteer opportunities! Vouchers and swag to all volunteers at all races!

2016-03-16 - Be one with the run

randy running Running seems to melt away anger, frustration and anxiety, bringing the mind back in sync with the body where all that seems to matter is moving, sweating and grooving into a fluid and efficient rhythm where we become one with our run. The run is like a filter that removes all that drags us down and leaves us clean and clear. We finish with renewed energy, energy that had been mired down by this complicated life.

Be one with the run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who often seems to barely crawl out the door for the daily run but always finishes like Kramer on Seinfeld, flying back in!

PS: For 29 years we've been putting on a brutal run on a 13.1 and 5 mile loop of wickedly hilly, rough single track trail around Hell, Michigan. Join us for the 30th running on April 23- 24. No cheering crowds, just wind in the trees. More at http://trailmarathon.com/

PS: "Trails in motion", the international trail running film festival will inspire and motivate you to run wild. Join us Saturday afternoon, April 23rd in Dexter, MI for this unforgettable experience. https://runningfitevents.redpodium.com/trails-in-motion-film-festival

2016-03-16 - Running is too brutal for the X-Games

randy running When it comes to extreme sports, running is right up there. We get out the door on our own without fanfare or encouragement, day after day in any and all conditions, from scorching days to sub-zero blasts. There are no easy miles, every one is hard work, our runs do not include rest breaks, our hearts pound on from the beginning to the end. Our sport is their sport's punishment, what they consider brutal is all that we do. We speak with our feet, our numbers don't lie, no judge is needed, there are no points for style.

You are the toughest athletes in the world,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who needs no cheering crowd, it's just the way we live, and live we do. Dig it!

2016-03-09 - Running gets no respect

randy sunglasses Rodney Dangerfield would say, running gets no respect. Just try to find anything about running in the sports section of the paper, even a marathon world record won't make the evening news. I am sure I'll be frustrated again this summer as major networks covering the summer Olympics will focus more on diving and gymnastics than distance running, dang. In an attempt to curb this injustice, RF Events is bringing "Trails in Motion", the world's trail running film festival, to Dexter, Michigan on Saturday April 23rd! A chance to celebrate our sport with like-minded people, away from the typical race-day environment, and in doing so leave with a true sense of inspiration, excitement and motivation to get out there! In 2015, the festival tour reached 14,000 trail running enthusiasts at 167 screenings across 26 countries including South Africa, Mexico, Japan and New Zealand, needless to say, we are excited to bring it to Michigan! Ticket info here!

Run, watch movies, run more,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who can't wait!

PS: Trails in Motion, the world's trail running festival, is a fitting addition to the 30th annual Running Fit Trail race weekend. For those running the half, the 2:30 PM festival start will give you time to get to Dexter for lunch before heading to the theater, or dinner after. For those running Sunday, it's the perfect way to spend some motivational pre-race time off your feet. If you can, make it a trail running weekend. See http://trailmarathon.com/

2016-03-02 - Enter, train, race

randy sunglasses I have a habit of repeating the important stuff. The most motivational weapon in my get-out-the-door arsenal is my commitment to run a future event. Once I sign on the line and send in my cash, the race looms over me like a persistent coach. It gets me out there on sunny clear days but also on snowy dark nights. That said, knowing I'm part of the team at RF Events, I am sure you are expecting a shameless plug about what event to enter... so I won't disappoint you and neither will our events. I was talking to a friend who moved to south Florida where he has entered several races that were poorly produced, expensive and disappointing on many levels. His greatest compliment was that we ruined his experience by setting the bar so high at our events. The Martian Invasion of Races is 5 weeks away, with 5K, 10K, Half and Full Marathon, a great pre-race expo and a silly theme to add to the energy and fun make it a great choice for the first time runner or marathon maniac.

Enter, train, race,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner with 3 paid entries that are getting me out the door this winter!

PS: Looking for more fun beyond Martian? Join us on the first stop of The Thirsty 3 Series, the Hightail to Ale 5K on Friday Night, May 6th! A fun 5K along the Detroit riverfront. a rockin' post race party and BEER!

2016-02-24 - Thumb your nose at the weather

randy sunglasses Thumb your nose at the weather and celebrate being alive. Bundle up, get out there and laugh, sing and run, if only for a short one. For those of us training for an early half or full marathon like Martian or Boston, the long run this week will be ... Memorable! The truth is, we've been blessed with a great running winter so far, we were due for a reality check.

Run and make memories,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who loves extremes.

PS: The Crew here at RF Events had a feel good day as we gave out $10,000 in checks to local Dexter Charities from the Holiday Hustle 5K proceeds. We also sent a check from the Super 5K proceeds to the Novi Youth Council for $1,800 for their Addicted to movies/games not drugs program. If you are considering a St. Patrick's Day run, 100% of the proceeds of the Ann Arbor Shamrocks and Shenanigans run goes to Mott Children's Hospital's Save a Heart program, last year we gave over $30,000! Enter at runshamrocks.com

charities

PS: Do something fun and spontaneous, join this obsessed runner in Florida next month for a flat, easy, trail run in the sun. Just do it! danceswithdirt.com

2016-02-17 - Bully-free zone

anna Baby Goat here, the Head Goat's youngest 'kid' and admitted "not that obsessed runner". Growing up with a guy like the goat leading the tribe could be a little intimidating, so while he's away trotting along the beaches of Mexico, I thought I would sneak in and give you my take on tricking yourself out the door.

Lately on my runs I've been bullying myself. I go faster than I want to, push when something feels wrong, and it has been making it harder to get out the door each day! Getting out the door is hard enough so I am putting in the work this week to STOP bullying myself. I'm not bullying myself into somebody else's pace when I don't feel it, I'm not pushing my heart rate up where it doesn't need to be... if something doesn't feel right, if I can't breathe... I'm taking a walk break! Heck, at least I got out there.

The Baby Goat, who thinks getting out the door is hard enough and is making the daily run a BULLY FREE ZONE (and gives you permission to as well!)

PS: BEER! Do I have your attention? Join us Friday night May 6th for a party on the Detroit riverfront (oh, and a 5K run). The Hightail to Ale 5K is back and you don't want to miss it!

PS: It is still winter, the season of FUN! Join me on March 13th for the Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5K, 1K and Kids' Dash! A silly St. Patrick's day jog through Ann Arbor, get out your green and be a part of the fun. This race benefits Save A Heart, an organization that raises funds to benefit patients and their families who come to the Michigan Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.

2016-02-10 - Run, share and motivate others!

randy sunglasses I admit, I spend a bit of time each day on Facebook runner lists I've joined. I enjoy rave run posts that get me excited to get out and run new, wild places. I search out posts that give first-hand accounts of event experiences, yes, for the review value but more for when the writer captures the essence of each step of their personal journey, this can be powerful. That said, I can't help but cringe when a person new to running asks a question on these forums, the answers seem to come mostly from other new runners who are quick to share what is often horrible advice. Yikes! Got a question, look to coaches and long-time healthy, happy runners. Personal message someone with a great track record and love for the sport, they will feel appreciated and will feel proud to be part of your success.

Run, share, motivate,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... Who posts on Facebook, tracks his run on Strava and tweets at events. Yikes!

PS: It is still winter, the season of FUN! Join us on March 13th for the Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5K, 1K and Kids' Dash! A silly St. Patrick's day jog through Ann Arbor, get out your green and be a part of the fun. This race benefits Save A Heart, an organization that raises funds to benefit patients and their families who come to the Michigan Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.

2016-02-03 - The Obsessed Runner gives you his blessing, ha!

randy sunglasses I consider December and January the low key running recovery months of the year, a time not to race seriously and to enjoy the easy running load. With the first mild winter in 4 years it's been hard not to get excited about getting back to our fitness level a bit sooner than planned ... So be it, let's up the ante, permission is granted, let's "Kick Off" the season now and ramp up the mileage! The past 3 winters made it hard to be ready for early events like the April 9th "The Martian Invasion of Races", but not this year! Again, you have my blessing (Remember I'm an admitted obsessed runner so take this with a grain of salt) If you were considering running 5K, I say go for 10K, if you were thinking 10K, go half marathon, thinking half, think full! See http://martianraces.com/, sign up ... And say Yikes!

Everything to excess ... Even moderation!

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who is breaking out of hibernation early!

PS: The Super 5K, this Super Bowl Sunday morning in Novi, is looking to have the best weather in its history ... perhaps warm enough that nobody will drop their Super 5K pint glass due to numb fingers - in fact, we will all be counting on it! The creative crew at RF Events is offering a challenge, if they don't hear one glass shatter inside Novi High School, everyone entered into the Super 5K will get a $3 off code to any of our events next year... So drop your glass outside! NOT! My guess, the odds no one drops a glass are about the same as the Lions being in the Super Bowl next year. Join us and see! It's not too late to enter the fun, see http://runsuperbowl.com/

2015-01-27 - If it's not fun, don't do it!

randy sunglasses Whenever we find ourselves stressing over some aspect of our running we should see this as an immediate red flag. We run to put fun and playtime back into this often stressful, adult life. When it comes to your running, as my friend John A. says, "if it's not fun, don't do it!" You set the rules, you can break and change the rules ... And should, whenever you want for whatever reason, or no reason! Unlike so many aspects of life, you totally control the power of playtime! Skip a run, OK, run twice in a day, what the heck. When you don't run what you perceived as your goal time at an event, take proud ownership of the time you did run. Never apologize for your run to anyone, especially yourself! Run good, run bad (No such thing), and finish with a well-deserved smile.

Run + Run = Fun,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... Who was stressing today because of a calf pain that tells me to take a day off. Stressing? RED FLAG! Take a deep breath and think ... Hey, I can take a nap in place of my run, or perhaps I'll go to happy hour!

PS: HUDDLE UP AND HELP OUT! Join us Sunday morning, February 7th at the Super 5K on the volunteer crew and receive a $30 credit toward a future RF Events' event!

PS: Calling all leprechauns! Join us for a fun and festive jog (with a cause!) around Ann Arbor on March 13, 2016 at the Shamrocks and Shenanigans 5K, 1K and Kids' Dash! Shamrocks and Shenanigans is a fundraiser for "Save A Heart" benefiting UM Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.

2016-01-20 - Winter runs turn lies into truths

randy sunglasses I admit, I used to whine a lot about cold winter runs until I switched to lying and saying, "I love winter". I found what they say is true, if you tell a lie long enough, you start to believe it yourself. Try these lines: I love the feel of the crunch of a new snow under my feet, the invigorating feel of a blast of cold crisp winter air, the smug feeling of satisfaction I get from dressing well and taking command of my environment ... The impressive pile of fitness laundry I produce, proving I'm a serious athlete! Yes, perhaps a stretch but lies only work when there is a bit of truth to them. Whining will get you nowhere, lying will get you out the door and when you finish, amazingly, your lies will become the truth!

Lie, run, believe,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner and alchemist

PS: HUT, HUT, GET IN THE GAME AND HELP OUT! Join us Sunday morning, February 7th at the Super 5K on the volunteer crew!

PS: It is still the month of resolutions! Resolve to join us on Planet Earth April 9th for the Martian Invasion of Races. There is nothing like a beautiful spring jog dressed as your favorite extraterrestrial being. No excuses... there is a distance for everybody!

2016-01-13 - Is running a shelfish endeavor?

randy sunglasses Running is a valuable and important use of our time, physically and mentally, it's OK to make it a priority. For whatever it's worth, you have my blessing, ha!

How to make your run a priority? Stop the habit of running when you have time (no one has time). Plan the time you run. For the workouts to get done, they need to be scheduled. Put your daily run in your appointment calendar and give it the same priority as any other scheduled meeting. When a friend invites you to dinner at 7 PM on a night you have scheduled a 6:30 PM run, explain that you have a late appointment but you can make it at 8 PM or perhaps another night. You don't need to lie, but perhaps don't tell the whole truth, the value of your run can be hard to explain. Selfish? No, being depressed, having a heart attack or stroke and needing someone to feed you due to your lifestyle would be selfish, not a run that gives back so much for the time invested! Sorry, my job is to Keep You Motivated! Yikes!

Run when it's time,

Randy Step, an obsessed runner, who is thinking of getting a job as a shock jock!

PS: While you're scheduling your runs, be sure to throw some races on the calendar to keep you motivated throughout the year! You won't want to miss the Super 5K on February 7th, 2016. Earn your spot on the couch before the big game. Still need more fun after that? The martians are invading Dearborn on April 9th in 2016, a distance for the whole family from 5K to full marathon, visit www.martianmarathon.com.

PS: Not often in life are we given the chance to be heroic, join us as we run in honor of fallen First Responders at the Heroes on Hines 5K and Half marathon, registration is now open for this October 1st event!

2016-01-06 - The dumbing down of running

randy sunglasses Have you noticed the proliferation of articles and books with topics like, "Run less, run faster", "Train only 3 days a week and finish a marathon", or "Run your best race on only 20 miles per week"? I don't get it. It seems like there is a lot of dumbing and numbing down in all areas of our lives including passions. I promise, it won't happen in this blog! My advice for 2016, make a resolution to put in the highest running mileage year of your life and put in the longest single run you have ever done! Perhaps put in your most mileage you ever have while training for a specific race. Plan for it, put it on the calendar and make it happen. You'll be faster, fitter and will get the kind of satisfaction not found with some wimpy attempt to just get by. The middle of the road will get you run over. Yikes!

Get out the door and hammer!

Randy Step, obsessed with running with no regrets!

PS: With your resolution to put in your highest running mileage of the year, get into gear with a couple of FUN 5K's. You won't want to miss the Super 5K on February 7th, 2016. Earn your spot on the couch before the big game! Still need more fun after that? What could be better than a Friday night keg party with a 5K warmup? Nothing! Be there May 6th at the Hightail to Ale.

PS: After you're all warmed up, plan the rest of your running year with RF Events! Our calendar will get you out the door all year long... Plus you'll get to spend quality time with the crew from RF Events.. fun!

2015-12-30 - Everybody dies, not everybody lives

randy sunglasses I've heard that running ... like red wine, may not make us live longer. Actually, as I think about it, if I didn't run it might feel like life is dragging on forever, you get the point. I do get a kick out of sound bite news stories like the one I heard this week stating that sad people live just as long as happy people, perhaps a relief to somebody but again, it seems even more sad to me. To wind up what is, perhaps an almost pointless rambling of a nut-job runner, my favorite line is from my dear old dad, God rest his soul. As I returned from a long hard run and was sitting on the back step, looking wasted, he walked by and said, "You may not live to be 100, but it will sure seem like it!"

Run long, live fast and fun,

Randy Step, who should stop right here.

PS: Sign up for the Hightail to Ale 5K before January 1 to SAVE $5! A friday night keg party with a 5K warm up, May 6, 2016! Sign up for the entire Thirsty 3 Series and save a total of $10! CHEERS!

PS: Hey Hippies, Join us September 9, 10 and 11 in 2016 for 3 days of peace, music and running! Registration for Run Woodstock is NOW OPEN! A distance for everybody. Check it out here!

2015-12-23 - We've planned your run schedule

randy sunglasses I find the holiday week a good time to plan the next running year and enter some events that will motivate us to train through winter, getting us out the door and keeping our fitness level "somewhat "intact.
OK, now a shameless plug... I am so proud of the crew here at RF Events and all they do to create races that are worthy of the many hard miles you put into your training, not to mention the hard earned discretionary cash you put down to enter. We work hard and pride ourselves on putting on amazing events like no others ...With sane entry fees! Yes, it's a labor of love, we run, we understand and we hope it shows.

A great compliment we hear "I can enter any of your events and never worry about making a bad choice, always beyond my expectations."

Make our 2016 Race Calendar your event calendar for 2016, you won't be disappointed. We will kick off the running year with the Super 5K on February 7th and the fitness fun goes on all year from there!

We look forward to running and partying with you in 2016!

Randy, Dawn, Mandy, Anna, Joanna, Gary, Ted, Jodi, Amy, Nancy, Dan and all our volunteer family!

PS: Hey Hippies, MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Run Woodstock CAMPING AND RACE REGISTRATION will open on December 28, 2015. PEACE

2013-12-16 - Run Proud!

randy hippie I saw a FB headline today about a 13.1 sticker on a car, "I don't give a sh-t!" I had to respond with, "Well I do!" Seriously, I smile when I know I'm around a kindred soul, someone who understands my running world, a small sticker tells a big story. A story of dedication, determination, a story about a goal oriented individual, a positive role model. I find it a refreshing sticker, not politics, religion or controversial subject ... Or so I thought!

Run proud and loud,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner with Oval stickers on my hippie van to prove it!

PS: Picking a series to register for is a great way to head into the new year with some motivation! We've got 3 great series to keep you moving into the new year. Check out the Serious Series, The Thirsty 3 Series, and the T-Rex Tri Series! We can't wait to cheer you on in 2016.

woodstock small

PS: Hey Hippies, MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Run Woodstock CAMPING AND RACE REGISTRATION will open on December 28, 2015. PEACE!

2015-12-09 - This is not a dress rehearsal

randy sunglasses I am a fan of the line: "this is not a dress rehearsal." Every day is precious as I was reminded this year when I lost two, way too young friends, to sudden illness and death. Yes, we may be training for a goal event, saving money for some future purchase or working on some elaborate long term project ... But this stuff all depends on what tomorrow brings. We know that it's important that we take time each day and live in the moment, it takes effort, but the effort is always rewarded. Our run fits this live in the moment requirement pretty well. That said, no matter how passionate we are about our daily run, it still takes an effort to leave all those projects behind and get ourselves out the door each day. When we finish our run, we realize how important the run was to our lives and we are always happy we ran. So why in the heck don't we have that same feeling and realization as we contemplate getting out for our run? We do get out the door and we do run ... but not often is it easy. This continues to baffle me, but it is what it is.

Get out and run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... who still needs a reminder of why.

PS: The Thirsty 3 Series is back and better than ever for 2016! The third year of the Thirsty 3 is something you won't want to miss! Visit thethirsty3.com for all the details!

PS: Get your planners out! The RF Events 2016 calendar is LIVE.. and what's more? Registration for the T-Rex Triathlon Series and Run Woodstock will open THIS MONTH!

2015-12-02 - Smug self-satisfaction

randy sunglasses We've been spoiled by a mild November that has not helped us adapt to cold days to come. This will make it a bit harder to get out the door. I find it helps to overdress to reduce the cold slap in the face that might have kept us inside. Wearing a light pack allows us to shed layers and also to put them back on if needed, this can relieve our internal thermostat issues and make the run a lot less intimidating. Yes, the winter laundry pile can get ugly, dang. All that said, a successful, brutal winter run can build our self-esteem like no other. We will need to control our desire to give others the smug look of self-satisfaction as we plow on ... The frost build-up on our face and hat should suffice!

The worse the better, bring it on,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... Who talks a big game, at least to myself until the door is closed behind me and I'm out there.

PS: Ease up and lick your wounds, the serious run season is over. Perhaps enter the Holiday Hustle 5K and 1 Mile, December 12th, then take a silly winter road trip romp in the snow at the Bigfoot 5 or 10K Snowshoe run in Traverse City January 23rd, then party and run on Super Bowl Sunday at the Super 5K February 7th. Just enough commitment to get us out the door this winter so we will be ready to ramp up again for the new season!

2015-11-25 - Thanks & Keep Smiling!

randy sunglasses The fitness lifestyle continues to grow in our culture but so does the obesity rate which is over 35% in American adults. So, as we head out for our run we are still part of what is perceived by many to be an oddball minority, those who choose to run and to associate it with fun. For over 30 years I continue to hear the same comments like, I only run to the fridge or when I'm being shot at. When asked about my running I find myself dumbing down my answers about how far I run or the races I enter. My hope is to make our sport less intimidating and more attainable. Yes, some of our athletic accomplishments might inspire others but I think what will help most is for more and more of us to get out there and set the example. When they see we are all shapes and sizes, running and walking, fast and slow, they may eventually get out to join us to find the fun in the run.

Get out there, your run can change the world,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, trying to smile on my runs, even on the hard days ... At least when someone is looking!

2015-11-18 - Hire a Runner

randy sunglasses Runners have energy, endurance, are self-directed and understand long term goal planning. We take what we learn in training and use these skills in our work and family life. Our daily run and our work bring new challenges every day, we take hills head on and push to the top of each one until we are totally spent, then we dig to discover more within us and go the extra mile. If you want something done, hire a runner! There is also a good chance a runner will have less sick days. That said, you might have to install a shower for maximum efficiency.

Live and work like you run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner ... Who would hire myself!

2015-11-12 - Don't let ego ruin your running

randy sunglasses I read a FB comment, "Sure glad I got my miles in today before I came down with this awful cold." As runners, this is the mentality that leads to days off due to sickness or pain. A smart comment would be, "I sure wish I had skipped todays run, I might have been able to duck getting sick." Our sport requires us to read our bodies closely looking for clues that tell us when to back off, drop out of a race or train and race hard. We follow schedules, have weekly mileage goals and some of us even share this info on social media, all of this brings pressure to perhaps sneak in just one more mile, often when we know we are pushing the limit, one more mile that might just cost us a month of mileage, dang.

Run smart, forever,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner for over 35 years, who makes less stupid mistakes now, but still lets ego get in the way occasionally ... but less and less! A work in progress.

2015-11-04 - Run uninhibited!

Runners are creatures of habit. We often run the same routes at the same pace with the same equipment and often with the same mindset for every run. Habits can add to our consistency but they can also limit our enjoyment of the sport in ways we will never know, until we break out of our comfortable ways. One habit I've broken is running past interesting stuff like great architecture or natural wonders, without stopping to really check them out. I was running every run like a race where the clock never stops, worried about recording my pace per mile or whatever. I now stop, perhaps post to social media or just mentally take in the pearls that now make each run more special and valuable to me. And yes, it sure makes my pace look bad on the run application on my phone and I'm kind of proud of myself for no longer caring ... And understanding that nobody else does either, duh.

Look for more in every run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is enjoying new found freedom from stuff that only existed in my mind anyway.

PS: Join me in Traverse city on November 14th for what is sure to be a cold and challenging run through the majestic beauty of the north woods. Bring it on. http://runvasa.com/

PS: We at RF Events have planned your 2016 running year so you don't even have to think, just run and enjoy these amazing races. http://rfevents.com/images/2016Calendar.pdf

2015-10-28 - Why run in this crap?

randy sunglasses As I look out at this gray, rainy, windy day I realize I'll need to strengthen my resolve to enjoy running through the cold months, especially November, when it is often frigid, wet and blah. How's that for an inspirational start to the midweek? Heading out the door on a day that looks just awful is never easy but once the heart rate steadies and we get in the mantra of our footfalls, the simple beauty of the natural world shines through, from the pattern of rain on the puddles to the wild swirl of wind in the trees, we pound on. The reality is that running is an extreme sport, a tough and challenging sport that never lets up, a sport not for the faint of heart ... And for these same reasons, running is our lifeblood, it gives us self-confidence, we find strength in ourselves we might have missed with a less daunting choice to direct our passion. We become the strong, determined, dedicated people our sport requires us to be, making us the ones who can get things done. Through running, we learn to see past the seemingly impossible problems of the world, making us the ones who might find the solutions that will change the world for the better.

Get out there,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who wrote this to get myself out the door today.

PS: Join me in Traverse city on November 14th for what is sure to be a cold and challenging run through the majestic beauty of the north woods. Bring it on. http://runvasa.com/

PS: We at RF Events have planned your 2016 running year so you don't even have to think, just run and enjoy these amazing races. http://rfevents.com/images/2016Calendar.pdf

2015-10-21 - 2016 Running Fit Event Calendar

randy sunglasses The only part I don't like about long running events is the taper and the recovery, they cut into the enjoyment of the daily run. I'm writing this the day after the Freep, a beautiful fall day and I'm too sore to get out there, dang. The season is about to wind down with the serious races behind us but I do look forward to the fun races like the Holiday Hustle 5K on Saturday December 12th and Super 5K February 7th, races that keep us motivated to run through the winter. That said, there is one last trail run, the Vasa 5k, 10K, and 25K in Traverse City on November 14th. A fun off- season road trip to what is sure to be a cold, rugged challenge, without a wimp in site! Soon to be referred to as "The Ice Man Runneth!" Join me, then we will deserve some easy days.

Train, taper, race, recover, train,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner here at RF Events, where we have planned your 2016 running year so you don't even have to think, just run and enjoy these amazing races. 2016 Calendar

2015-10-14 - Yikes, it's Detroit Freep Week!

randy sunglasses Yikes, its the Detroit Freep Marathon week! For those of you who put in the long hard miles all summer and will toe the line this Sunday for the full or half marathon, congratulations! All the work is done and the marathon will just be icing on the cake, enjoy. For those of you who did not get in your training miles but are still going to line up Sunday, you will be doing all the work on race day but you will get it done ... you just might not be able to dance. For those of us on the marathon side lines, we are envious of your dedication to training and you inspire us to perhaps consider the marathon or half marathon next. Stop by the Running Fit and Running Fit Events booth and say hi! We'll be handing out magnet calendars with next year's events so you can plan your year.

Get excited, stay excited,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, who is running 13.1 miles at the Freep ... And will not be dancing well after.

PS: HO, HO, GO! Everybody's favorite holiday themed hustle around the charming City of Dexter, MI is BACK! Registration is now open for the Holiday Hustle 5K and 1 Mile! Finisher medals for 5K finishers and a custom knit beanie to all entrants!

2015-10-07 - Run, Scream, Run

randy sunglasses October, the sweet spot of the running year. It gets no better than a fall color, country road run with the birds and squirrels cheering us on. October is also a great month for spooky nonsense and dressing silly, combine that with running and the stress of life takes a back seat for a while. Join me at Run Scream Run this Saturday at Wiard's Orchard in Ypsilanti, a 5K, 10K or 1 Mile fall color run through pumpkins, apples, rolling fields and a finish through Michigan's premier haunted attraction, as fun as a run can get. The perfect sharpening run for those of us running the Freep the next weekend. Run or volunteer, the link is here!

Run, Scream, Run,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is still sitting in sweaty run gear as I write this, and still feeling the mellow buzz of my country road run

PS: The running community lost one of its best last week to brain cancer, Linda Hartzman was a brave, gutsy runner, volunteer and mother of two beautiful young daughters. She lived life to the fullest right up till the end and her courage and strength inspired all who she touched. https://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/linda-s-fight-against-brain-cancer/220931#.Vg05xctpT08.facebook

PS: The snow will blow and you will wish you were running with us in Mexico. Sign up deadline extended to October 11th.

PS: Join us for your LAST CHANCE to get $30 off your Holiday Hustle entry by volunteering at Run, Scream, Run! We want you ON THE BOO CREW!

2015-09-30 - Don't run naked

randy sunglasses With mornings in the low 40's it's time to put on the long sleeves, it also reminds me that the fall long race season is upon us and ... I am way behind in my training! I'm sure I'm not alone on this, life sometimes gets in the way of our run schedule. Yes, we are getting out the door and putting in the daily runs but perhaps not the long runs or mileage we hoped for, dang. Running is not a sport that we can "cram for the exam", we can only line up with the training we have put in... or not put in. Don't bail on your event! Lining up under-trained guarantees an adventure! We may run some and walk more than some, but if we keep up constant forward progress we will get it done! Yes, our times will be pathetic but nobody really cares, we will party when we finish (hopefully by last call)!

Run and get it done,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner, with mileage in my log that does not support what I admit to, but I know it to be true.

PS: The 5k, 10k, 25k Vasa Trail Run's new date, November 14th could be a challenging northern adventure, yikes, perhaps the "The Iceman Runeth" might fit the description with not a wimp in sight! Join us as we finish up the year with a road trip north and enjoy off season rates! Warm up and celebrate with us as we hit up the wineries and breweries in the Traverse City area, the Dirt Crew and I will share our touring schedule once it's finalized.

PS: I will be running in Mexico for a week this winter, join me! https://runningfitevents.webconnex.com/cancun16

PS: HO, HO, GO! Everybody's favorite Holiday Themed Hustle around the charming City of Dexter, MI is BACK! Registration is now open for the Holiday Hustle 5K and 1 Mile! Finisher medals for 5K finishers and a custom knit beanie to all entrants!

2015-09-16 - If you miss a day of running

randy sunglasses If you miss a day of running, nobody knows. If you miss two days, you know. If you miss 3 days, everybody knows! Actually, this is not at all the reality but to runners it sure seems like it. Maybe with all the new running apps we use to track our miles someone might figure out we missed some days but the reality is that nobody cares about our running.. just us! This is another aspect of our sport I love. We get to choose when, where and how much to run or not run. So much of our lives are controlled and dictated, our run is true personal freedom. All that said, sometimes it feels like we are "sneaking" out for a run. We know the beneficial aspects of the run mentally and physically, we know we return from the run rejuvenated and more productive, better able to work and be there for our families. So why do we sneak out? Because only a runner would understand the seriousness of our play time.

Run free,

Randy step, an admitted obsessed runner who just missed 3 days, and now everybody knows, dang!

PS: Join us on the Dirt Crew for an epic weekend in HELL, MI the weekend of September 26! We love our volunteers and this is a down and dirty weekend you wont forget! Check out the details HERE!

PS: It's a perfect time to mark Feb. 13 - 20 on the calendar and join the Dirt Crew for our annual winter run trip to the sun. We have 80 direct flight seats out of Lansing to take us to the "Now Jade" resort in the Mayan Rivera, a safe, fun place to run and sun. All non-running friends and family will love this all inclusive getaway and you'll be back from the morning run before they know you were gone. RSVP here! Check out some more info here!

2015-09-16 - Yes, you are a runner!

randy sunglasses I witnessed tears of joy from a first time 5K trail run finisher at Run Woodstock. The steep hills and dirt footing made this run a challenging adventure for many who were venturing off the roads for the first time. Each run is a stepping stone, a learning experience that moves us forward to the next adventure. Many of us saw the finish line of our first race as an affirmation, giving us the OK to say to the world that, "I am a runner!" Great stuff. Yes, there were runners who ran 100 miles this weekend at Run Woodstock, runners who left me standing in awe of their commitment to the sport and the incredible mental and physical tenacity they have developed in their running lives, 100 mile finishers who had tears of joy in their eyes, the same tears of joy they experienced long ago when they crossed their first 5K finish line ...

Keep running forward,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner with greater adventures calling me on.

PS: Join us on the Dirt Crew for an epic weekend in HELL, MI the weekend of September 26! We love our volunteers and this is a down and dirty weekend you wont forget! Check out the details HERE!

PS: One last chance for a trail race finish in 2015, Run Vasa in Travers City, Saturday November 14th. Yes, it might be a wicked cold day and yes, it may even snow .. but it is guaranteed to be an adventure to remember, one that will move you forward. 5K, 10K, 25K, enter at http://runvasa.com/

2015-09-09 - Run so you can help

The thoughts I had while watching the tragedy unfold on 9/11 would change me forever. Before that, I would say my actions would have been those of a survivor, doing what it would take to save myself and my family. That day I watched as hundreds of people much braver than I can imagine ran into The World Trade Center instead of running away from it. First responders with families at home and other brave souls who stopped to help those who were in need rather than sprinting away. Since that day, each daily run takes on new meaning. When tragedy strikes, I want to be physically and mentally ready to help ... and not be the one who needs help or thinks only of myself. For all first responders and members of the military, you have my utmost respect and gratitude.

Run to help,

Randy Step, an admitted obsessed runner who is proud to live among so many brave Americans.

PS - Join us this fall for one of the wildest SKEDADDLES out there! Scrumpy Skedaddle 5K and 10K at Almar Orchards in Flushing, MI on October 4th is JUST what the doctor ordered... an apple a day, right? Join us for a scamper around the orchards. runscrumpy.com