ENDURrun Contender: Merzitron

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Thank you ENDURrunners for the motivation to keep coming back for more. See you all soon!

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Merzi Dastoor decided that 5 years away from ENDURrun was too many, so he’s back again! 

 

ENDURrun: What are you expecting this year? 

Merzitron: My goal this year is to try and drop roughly 10 minutes off my previous time. However, understanding that so much about the week is out of my control (weather, sickness, whether my kids let me sleep, lost toe nails – Merlin!), my main goal is to have a great week with a wonderful group of people.

 

What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

Representing my new club, H + P, for the week.

 

What are you nervous about, if anything?

See above.

 

Can you share any details of your training?

I’ve been doing a lot more speed than I would normally be doing by this time in the year. It’s definitely made me faster, but my total distance has suffered. I guess it’s time to pick that up a bit.

 

What is your runner profile? 

Running/racing since 2000. I’ve logged A LOT of kilometres over the years. I’m definitely more of a roadie than a trail runner. I enjoy the trails, I just don’t seem to ever have time for them.

 

What are the key pieces of advice to Rookies that you’ve learned over the years?

Eat and sleep as much as you can! But most of all, enjoy the experience.

 

For someone who has never been to ENDURrun week, what should they expect?

To gain a new family.

 

What else would you like to share?

What else would I like to share????? How about that the ENDURrun community is amazing! Early thanks to ALL the volunteers and everyone that helps to make this amazing week happen.

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

It’s only people who are completely nuts that do it.

No course changes in 2018

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Quick update: there are NO course changes for any Stages from 2017 to 2018.

 

This is the first time in ENDURrun history that there are no changes to any of the seven Stages year-over-year.

 

We are also not expecting any construction interference for any of the Stages.

 

Stay tuned this week for a full information booklet. You can continue to use the 2017 booklet for course info.

 

* Stage 2 reverts back to its usual Conestogo route, moving the start/finish and turnaround points back 100m. 

ENDURrun Contender: Herculisa

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Hi ENDURrun Community! I’m Lisa Leskien, a trail and snowshoe runner from Cambridge. I’m looking forward to the challenge of this event and experiencing the sense of community that this event creates. I can’t wait to see what I can do at the 2018 ENDURrun.

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We’re really excited to welcome Lisa “Herculisa” Leskien to the trails (and roads!) of ENDURrun!

 

ENDURrun: How did you find out about us?

Herculisa: Runners talking about it 🙂

 

What convinced you to take the plunge?

A stage race has always been something that I have wanted to try. No better year than this year to try something new.

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

Motivation for a big event like this for me comes from wanting to show my kids that if they work hard at something they can accomplish their goals. My kids see me train and they cheer me on through the ups and downs of racing. I’ll think about them a lot as I compete – I always do.

 

Can you share any details of your training? 

I crochet while cross training on the elliptical. It may be my super power.

ENDURrun Contender: Big Mac

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Hey guys, I’m baaaaaaack. Looking forward to meeting all the new Rookies and reuniting with past Ultimate Finishers.

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Mark McDonald has finished every ENDURrun but one since 2010! 

 

What is your runner profile? 

I started running in 2006 as a way to combat weight loss. I started at 10km distance for racing, and jumped to the half marathon distance the same year in 2007. In 2009 I joined a Running Room clinic and this began my racing career and helped develop my skills and knowledge of pacing, nutrition, cross training, etc. I have made significant gains since then, and progressed to marathon distance and triathlon, completing 4 Ironmans since 2012. I have completed 25 marathons, countless half marathons and 7 ENDURrun Ultimate finishes. In 2014, I completed the ENDURrun Ultimate and 2 weeks later completed Ironman Muskoka…that was a little nuts.

 

What about ENDURrun keeps you coming back?

It’s my annual summer holiday. Run, Massage, Eat, Nap, Swim; Repeat.

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

My goal is always to finish. If I can pull out an improvement in any of the stages or the week, that’s a bonus.  

 

 

What are you nervous about, if anything?

Aches and pains making for a long week – I know the course, I know I can finish, but as I get older can my body still take the beating?

 

Can you share any details of your training? 

In the past it was always good enough following a marathon training plan; I seldom trained long back to back and didn’t focus on any technical trails – although I have a history of getting stronger as the week goes by, not sure if that goes for everyone and if the less training approach contributes to that.

I haven’t been running anywhere near what I have in the past. I have been marathon training since 2009, this was my first year taking time off to self-reflect and focus on new passions – but I found my way back to running. I’ve been focusing on short distance fun runs as opposed to long distance and speed – only just recently focusing on an early summer fast 10k, which should give me back some speed for ENDURrun.

 

How will your ENDURrun 2018 compare to previous years?

Better, worse, the same – with me you never know. I am capable of pulling out some PB’s or PW’s – usually the first stage sets the tone for my week.

 

What are the key pieces of advice to Rookies that you’ve learned over the years?

Don’t get caught up in the mad dash at the start of each stage, run your own race as you prepared in your training. Sign-up for massage and then eat! Expect the worst from Chicopee and hope for the best. Do whatever it takes to stay in the game: massage, ice, stretch, elevation – but not at the expense of injury – live to run another day.

 

For someone who has never been to ENDURrun week, what should they expect?

Rain during Bechtel.  Meeting the most supportive, friendly, like-minded crazy runners/volunteers that will keep you coming back year after year.

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

The history, the stats, the new and old faces, the accomplishment and uniqueness of the event. Lloyd has said before that often decisions made are to protect the integrity of the ENDURrun, and I couldn’t agree more.

 

ENDURrun Contender: Smiley Savvas

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Hello Running Enthusiasts, cannot wait to run with you all!

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Welcome home Smiley Savvas. Your attitude is a beautiful thing! 

 

ENDURrun: What about ENDURrun keeps you coming back?

Smiley Savvas: The feeling of being part of an amazing family of runners for an entire week and spending time with volunteers and Schmidt family and catching up with running friends. My first ultimate was in 2009 where I met many amazing runners that I have kept in touch with (Jack Kilislian, Joanne Bink, Jodi Kalman, Suzan Moizer, Andrew Moizer, etc.). It’s also opportunity to run in my hometown of Kitchener-Waterloo.

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

The 2018 ENDURrun will be my 4th ultimate and as I slow down my running goals, I hope to get more pleasure and satisfaction in encouraging my fellow runners to achieve their running goals. Recently, I trained my friend, who turned 40 and has 3 young kids, to complete his first marathon (2018 Cornwall Marathon) and the satisfaction and joy as I ran with him from start to finish was priceless and I hope to help many more people.

 

What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

Spending time with Lloyd Schmidt and family, discussing about running adventures, trips, and catching up with fellow runners. My running goal are to finish under 15 hours!

 

What are the key pieces of advice to Rookies that you’ve learned over the years?

To cherish each stage and the volunteers and Schmidt family. It’s a magical experience that will not be replicated, so don’t run too hard early to conserve energy for stage 5 and 7 as they are tough!

 

For someone who has never been to ENDURrun week, what should they expect?

Each runner will be treated like a winner and there is a sense of community amongst runners supporting each other to finish! The chance to hang out with Lloyd and Julie Schmidt and their amazing family, to feel an energy of caring and support from day one to the last.

 

What are you nervous about, if anything?

I am nervous about the feeling of my legs after 3 days of continuous running, but looking forward to the amazing buffet style cuisine after each race.

 

How is your training going? 

My training started slowly as Ottawa winters are tough on running, but I have done a few half-marathons and the Cornwall marathon. I am doing many trail races this sumer to help me for Stage 3 and the dreaded Stage 5 – Chicopee. I run about 30-45 km per week, but it will vary between hills, trails and road running. I don’t run as much as I used to and personally, I find it more liberating and allows to focus on my other hobbies, like painting, reading, and world history.

 

How will your ENDURrun 2018 compare to previous years?

I hope to beat my 2015 ENDURrun where we had unusually hot year and I struggled that year, especially the marathon distance, but Joanne and Vicki helped inspire me to stick with it and finish!

 

What is your runner profile? 

I started running in high school for track and cross-country about 25 years ago, but I have been mostly doing road races from 2004 to present. I have completed 29 full marathons in 17 different cities – I love travelling and learning about new cultures and trying out different cuisines. The three most beautiful marathons I have completed are (1) Victoria, BC, (2) Athens Greece, and (3) Big Sur California.

 

What else would you like to share?

The ENDURrun is a homecoming for me (born and raised in Kitchener), and I love the runners, volunteers and Schmidt family as they welcome me with open arms and I keep coming up every other year or so. Also, I have ran most of these races with my identical twin brother and it’s a great experience to share together!

After ENDURrun, I will be doing a few trail races (Haliburton 50K) and visiting my dad and my family on a beautiful Greek Island!

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

The feeling of running with your friends for an entire week and sharing the same pain and aches as we are all human! Sharing stories, laughing and inspiring each other through wisdom and encouragement!

ENDURrun Contender: Dave

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Hi everyone! I’m looking forward to being a part of this – can’t wait to get started!

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Dave Harmsworth is a wildcard in this competition. He’s got the speed and the mileage, so who knows where this Rookie campaign will go!!

 

ENDURrun: How did you find out about ENDURrun?

Dave: I remember hearing about plans for it before the inaugural event. I was fascinated by the concept!

 

What convinced you to take the plunge?

I’ve been thinking about it ever since I started running again two/three years ago. I figure I’m in the best shape I’ve been in for 18 years, and not getting any younger…. if not now then when?

 

What advice have you been collecting? 

I’ve been reading the other contender bios and testimonials, but that’s it. Perhaps I’ll have some advice for others afterwards about how not to prepare?

 

What are you still hoping to learn?

I need to figure out my pacing for the longer stages – and how to stay hydrated.

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

I think of myself as a 10k runner, so this will be a massive challenge. Stage 7 will be my first-ever marathon! Of course I have some times in mind, but the #1 goal is to survive the week without injury.

 

What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

Everything I love about race day – times 7.  

 

What exposure did you have to ENDURrun 2017? 

I ran Stage 4, came out to watch the marathon, and followed online.

 

What are you nervous about, if anything?

The three longest stages. Each one of them is going to be longer and/or tougher than any race I’ve ever done.

 

Can you share any details of your training? 

I’ve been gradually increasing my mileage since January, from 40-ish to 80 km/week, with occasional tough weeks and recovery weeks. I’ve included a few 30k runs (which I still find tough), and in April I did do something like a mock EndurRun – similar mileage over eight days, except with fewer hills and just 30k on the final day instead of the full marathon.

 

What is your runner profile? How long have you been running, general mileage, surfaces, etc.

I’ve been in and out of running over the years. I ran track in high school, ran cross-country and road races in grad school, and now I’ve returned to it again in my 40s. Almost all road now – I like trail-running, but I’m a bit gun-shy after a couple of scary falls.

 

What else would you like to share?

I wouldn’t be doing this without my wife’s help and support. Thanks, Deb! 🙂

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

The multi-stage format. If there was a similar event in the area with shorter distances, I would have done it long ago.

ENDURrun Contender: Dee

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Hello running family! My name is Deirdre but you know me as Dee. So excited to be heading back for my 4th Ultimate this year. Every year has brought a new challenge, new goals and very sweet people into my life. And the quest for that perfect tank top!

 

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After an Ultimate hiatus of one year, we’re super excited to have Deirdre Large back on the other side of the start line this year!

 

ENDURrun: How will your ENDURrun 2018 compare to previous years?

Deirdre: I’m hoping to finish each stage before the cutoff! This wasn’t really a concern in past years but with my recovery now I’m a bit worried.

 

What are the key pieces of advice to Rookies that you’ve learned over the years?

Get plenty of sleep between stages. RELAX as best you can between stages. Enjoy and embrace all the “non racing” parts of the week. It’s a very special experience when you do.

 

For someone who has never been to ENDURrun week, what should they expect?

They can expect to be welcomed with open arms, cared for as a competitor in all aspects of racing and end every day well fed.

 

What about ENDURrun keeps you coming back?

all of the above! And the Schmidt family <3

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

My first ENDURrun in 2014 was part of my #bigscarygoals year. First 30km race, first full marathon and finally, first Ultimate at ENDURrun that year. My goal every year is to not fall at Chicopee Stage 5 (still a thing), RUN up the hill every loop at Bechtel Stage 3 (nope) and not lose a toenail. One outta three ain’t bad…..

 

What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

The people. Always the people. And happy healthy Lloyd.

 

What are you nervous about, if anything?

Making the cutoffs for every stage!

 

Can you share any details of your training?

I’ve always tried to do a few back to back long runs. Get used to running on tired legs. And a bunch of runs on Wilmot Line, hills glorious hills! We are very lucky to live so close and train on the actual routes.

 

What is your runner profile? How long have you been running, general mileage, surfaces, etc.

I’ve been running for 10 years, mostly daily short runs and 5km races for the first 5 years. But in the last 5 years I started training and running marathons, trail races (25 and 50km races) and even finished my first triathlon last year! But I still love my 8-10km daily runs around the neighbourhood the most.

 

What else would you like to share?

This week always feels like going home. The athletes, the volunteers, the supporters cheering us on and the Schmidt family. I still haven’t found any other running experience quite like it.  

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

One Tough Runner. I think the fact that it is a multi-stage race is very appealing. And that it is accessible to all levels of runners if they put in the training.

 

What can we follow-up with you about in August for a profile part 2?

If my stress fracture survived the week.

ENDURrun Contender: Sharon

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Hiya! Good luck everyone – I look forward to eating your dust.

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Welcome Sharon Ditner for your first Ultimate attempt!

 

ENDURrun: How far back do you go with ENDURrun?

Sharon: In 2008 I attempted put together a relay team but it fell apart. Three team members did their events – I chickened out of my 30 km event.

 

E: What convinced you to take the plunge ten years later?

S: I did the Sport option last year, was going to try to better my Sport result but that is not an option in 2018 – so I took the “plunge”. [Sport was a category offered from 2005-2017. We have discontinued that category for 2018.]

 

E: What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

S: If I can finish this year I’ve been thinking about running for a charity in 2019.

 

E: What are you nervous about, if anything?

S: Chicopee and Bechtel Park.

 

E: What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

S: The supportive vibe of the ENDURrun community; the runners, the volunteers, the spectators, friends and family – veterans and newbies coming together.

ENDURrun Contender: Winter

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Greeting and salutations, my excitement to meet again is gaining traction and growing by the week.

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We’re excited to see what Andrew Keeves (Winter) can do in 2018, without giving the field a 30 minute Stage 1 head start!

 

ENDURrun: You’ve trained for Ultimate before. What did you learn that you will build from (or avoid) this time around?

Winter: I signed up for ENDURrun 2017 on a whim so I started the training later than most, but I was pretty pleased overall with how my legs held up. This time around I’ll try to be as dedicated as when I was going for Boston qualifying. I’ll definitely do more hill and trail running (any trails would be more) as I was totally unprepared for the second trail stage.

 

E: Besides training, what will be the same and/or different about this Ultimate compared to your first completion?

W: Well, first off, I’ll show up on time. That seems to be a good way to save some energy for the late stages.

 

E: What is the one piece of advice that you’re glad you knew/you wish you knew before your first completion?

W: Not knowing anything about the courses except the distance and type of race was maybe the best thing for me. Now, when training, all I can think about is the hurt from Chicopee.

 

E: How were you feeling in the days and weeks following your first Ultimate completion?

W: I was really drained. I generally recover quickly after races but this took a couple weeks to get my legs to a point I could run a comfortable 10 or 20k.

 

E: What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? Motivations, goals, etc.

W: My competitive nature may create its own story. My overall goal is to beat my 2017 time while trying for a podium finish.

 

E: What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

W: To see how much more I can push myself.

 

E: What are you nervous about, if anything?

W: Hoping the job doesn’t get in the way so I can attend.

 

E: Can you share any details of your training? 

W: My training is pretty sporadic but signing up for races keeps me moving toward my goals.

 

E: What is your runner profile? How long have you been running, general mileage, surfaces, etc.

W: I’ve been running and doing triathlons since 2012, I just like being active.

 

E: What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

W: The small, close-knit community aspect, getting to meet the organizers, volunteers and competitors all.

 

ENDURrun Contender: Mark

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Hello, I am excited to join the Ultimate for the first time. Looking forward to meeting all crazy people!

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We love rookie contenders … welcome Mark Ishikawa!

 

What convinced you to take the plunge?

I used to be an ultra runner. When people call me CRAZY, that is my happiest moment. I wanted to feel that again this summer.

 

What exposure did you have to ENDURrun 2017? 

Was following online, dreaming I would run in 2018!

 

What advice have you been collecting? What are your sources?

From my own experience for 35 years including 97 marathons and countless ultras

 

What are you still hoping to learn by August?

How to manage everyday races. I’ve never done three and more consecutive days.

 

What are your ENDURrun 2018 stories? 

I’m not afraid of distance itself. Speed/time is secondary. My goal is to finish all 7 races with happy smile 🙂

 

What are you most looking forward to about ENDURrun 2018?

Meeting extremely crazy people, and then feeling that I am still far from crazy

 

What is your runner profile? 

My first marathon was more than 30 years ago. Since then I’ve done 2-3 marathons per year. I’ve reached 97 marathons now. The day 7 marathon of Ultimate will be my 98th marathon (if I can finish). I participated in OUTRACE in 2015 series, was the 2nd place in Male 50+. Normally I do 150-250km/month on various surfaces such as dirt trail, paved roads, indoor track, treadmill. My favorite training route is Rail Trail in Hamilton.

 

What is the most important part of the ENDURrun identity that appeals to you?

Consecutive days, each day has its race.