2022 BMO Vancouver Marathon

Sarah, Carla and I before the race.  Carla is from Shawnigan Lake and finished in 4:19!!! Island pride.

By Maggie Grant

The BMO Vancouver Marathon was an amazing race.  There were 5877 participants in the full marathon, 9986 participants in the half marathon and 2568 people in the 8km.  There were a LOT of sweaty runners in Vancouver on Sunday May 1.

Pre-race with Kayla, my biggest fan.

The start line (from a ways back)

This was my first marathon.  The other STARR runner, Sarah McWhirter, has had some more experience with longer distances and it was awesome to connect with her as we headed to the start line.  Sarah is preparing for the long trail run on the island in September with her sister Carla.  The marathon course started at Queen Elizabeth park, and it was quite behind schedule getting started.  It was great to make some friends at the start line, and I got to tell one past Around The Bay participant from Toronto all about our STARR simulation event.  I was in the last wave to leave and it was quite exciting to hear the countdown!

It was pretty awesome to see and hear the cheerers on the side of the roads.  I hit every high five (I decided to pretend the pandemic was completely over) and even petted a few dogs as I ambled along.  One memorable guy turned up three times along the way, and he called out to the runners in a very loud voice: “You are an inspiration.  You are amazing.  I could never do something so hard.”  Yeah, he was intense but there was a lot of energy out there.   BMO gave out round signs to supporters and someone was holding a sign for Maggie at the top of a hill–but it was a different Maggie.  I was pretty excited about that one.  There were also some great bands playing high energy music throughout the route.  There were also lots of aid/water/nutrition stations and volunteers on bikes to keep everyone safe too.

27KM Kitsilano

The run went out to UBC and then down through Kits and then over the Burrard street bridge, along the water to the seawall and finished on Pender.  It was very downhill, with only a few uphills on the whole route.

From Sooke, we had Toby Brown M30-34 at 04:07:58. Sarah McWhirter F35-39 04:33:05.  Sarah is a STARR member and reports she had a blast, felt strong the whole time and even took some pictures.  Britt Wiseman F25-29 4:52.  Maggie Curtis F50-54 at 5:11 and Care Mamone.  The first male overall was Alex Gladley at 2:25 and the first female overall was Dayna Pidhoresky at 2:34.  I cannot fathom running that long that fast.  

From a personal perspective–it was an amazing experience.  I am from Vancouver and I love every single neighbourhood  that we ran through. I also had my whole family–including my elderly parents and their spouses–cheering me on at the finish line.  Kayla, my daughter, popped up several times along the route.  It was really hard to run that last 10 kms, but I never doubted I was going to finish.  I learned a few things–pavement is harder than the galloping goose (where I did most of my training).  It is probably a good idea to have new-ish shoes with lots of cushioning.  Focus on form as you tire because shuffling along makes muscle cramps worse.  And lastly (and most importantly) enjoy the experience–dance to the music, take the high fives and pet a dog or two along the way.  

I finished!  50th anniversary of the marathon!

TC 10k Back Live in 2022  

The start! Courtesy of Joe Crazy Legs

By Leslie Ann Bent

It was such a pleasure to have the TC10k race live again in its 33rd year. The race director was expecting 5,500- to 6,000 runners and walkers to hit the downtown core of Victoria Sunday morning. Andy and I had been watching the weather reports this week, and we were wondering if the day might prove to be rainy. However, the weather turned out to be perfect for a race – no rain, little wind and a mild temperature, comfortable for running.

The event was well organized. A two-year break from live racing, didn’t impact the smooth running of this very popular race.  Corrals were laid out for participants to self-seed based on predicted finish time.  The race used wave starts to help keep social distancing easier. It was such a great atmosphere to race in person once again – cheering, seeing racers of all talents, music, volunteers, a real finish line, and something for everyone.

The course started by the Legislature, passing the Empress Hotel and eventually turning onto Yates for some uphill work early into the race.  The wave starts really allowed participants to spread out earlier than typically experienced in such a large event.  I passed two dinosaurs on the first kilometer and it was a reminder that charities are also back to having events like the TC10k to raise funds in support their work. After a bit of hill work early on, the race evens out along Cook. It then zigzags a bit passing along Richardson and Moss before hitting Dallas with a seaside view for the second half of the race and ending at the downtown core. Volunteers and residents alike were out cheering and providing energy along the route as we passed.

Eight STARR runners participated in the race that attracted nearly 4,000 finishers in the 10k event. Andy Smith was our first runner to cross with a chip time of 39:33, one second behind the 2nd place age-group finisher. What a great season Andy is having. Maggie was our fastest woman, achieving a 7-year PB with a time of 54:16. She too is looking strong and has had results this season to prove it.

Andy and Jonathan

The field was deep for those looking to place.  Local Victoria Prairie Inn Harrier’s runner and Ethiopian immigrant, Teferi Kebede Balcha (M40-44) took home first place crossing the finish line at 31 minutes. Victoria runner, Jen Millar was the first woman to cross with a time of 36:10. More than 80 runners had a clock time under 40 minutes – a great race for competitors who feed off competition.

Bryn Brooks of Victoria requires honourable mention as the lone woman in the over 90 age category and breaking an hour with a respectable time of 58:44 – the oldest runner in the race. There were many inspiring stories from the race and this was just one of them.

A few comments from STARR runners:

Claude – “Great day for a race, perfect running temperature, beautiful course. A little smaller than other years, I believe around 5,000 as compared to about 8,000 pre-COVID.  All the supporters and the cow bells make for a festive atmosphere.”

Maggie – “It was a great race--beautiful weather, nice race-day atmosphere, and my fastest 10km time in seven years, so I was pretty excited.  I am so glad that it is back in-person.  And I loved the staggered starts--it was so nice to have room to run from the beginning.”

STARR Results (chip time), age-group placing are based on official clock time

Andy Smith (M55-59)                                  39:33, 3rd

Claude Laforce (M60-64)                          48:01, 9th

Steve Eriksen (M45-49)                              49:09

Maggie Curtis (F50-54)                               54:16

Pascale Knoglinger (F40-44) 1:02:07

Melanie Eskildsen (F40-44)                        58:29

Ken Pungente (M75-79)                             1:10:58, 11th

Leslie Ann Bent (F55-59)                            1:29:28

Congratulations to all of our runners.  What a great event.

Synergy Bazan Bay 5k & VIRA Awards – 6 Series Medals, 2 Race Medals, 5 Ribbons

Some STARRs who earned medals and ribbons.

By Leslie Ann Bent

The Bazan Bay 5k race held in Sidney is the last in the series and marks the end of the VIRA season. This race attracts top performers and recreational runners alike. It’s flat, fast and scenic as it winds along the ocean front. The website says many PBs have been set on this course.

The race attracted 455 runners on this not so promising day. When we left Shirley and Sooke, the rain was coming down pretty hard. By the time we reached Langford, the overnight snow fall was very visible. This is southern Vancouver Island and it’s April. What was wrong with that picture? However, as we made our way up the Pat Bay Highway, the weather gods came out to make our last race a decent one – no rain during the race and not much wind either.

Twelve STARR runners came out for the event. It was great to see familiar faces before and after the race. Megen and Brynn surprised us at the half way mark, as faithful STARR cheerleaders. Thanks for that! Andy was our first STARR runner across the finish line with a time of 19:14, earning him a second-place age group finish. Stephanie was our first woman to finish with a time of 22:35, earning her a 6th place age group placing.

The field was tough. The first male and female runners were both from Calgary. Matthew Travaglini (M25-29) ran 14:35, not quite fast enough for him to achieve a course record. You might recognize his name though as this track runner won the Royal Victoria Half Narathon in 2021. Courtney Brohart (F30-34) edged out the competition with a time of 17:02 – one second ahead of the second-place female runner. I must mention though that the race also has some inspiring stories.

There was a man, 99 year-old Jim Silvester from Ceevacs participating in the M90-99 age group. He, along with his crutches and family members by his side, took small steps, edging their way along the beautiful route, clearly happy to participate. It reminded me of how lucky we are to race and participate in such a beautiful spot and that these events are not just for the speedsters. Taken from the Ceeevacs website were words of wisdom from Jim when he turned 99 earlier this month. “I just love life. It’s been a good life. You talk positively. Got to think positively. If you want to get anywhere, you got to keep moving. Coming into the finishing line. I was very proud to be part of that.”

Results Bazan Bay

Andy Smith (M60-64) 19:14 (2nd)

Wataru Hirota (M16-19) 20:10 (4th)

Steve Eriksen (M45-49) 21:50

Stephanie Croft (F45-49) 22:35 (6th)

Claude Laforce (M60-64) 22:56 (10th)

Pauline Nielsen (F50-54) 24:36 (8th)

Melanie Eskildsen (F40-44) 25:54

Maggie Curtis (50-54) 27:09

Bruce Hawkes (M80-84) 34:04 (2nd)

Jaxson Andrews (1-15) 38:22

Melanie Cunningham (F70-74) 38:39 (8th)

Leslie Ann Bent (F55-59) 43:15

We were very proud to have 6 runners win top ten medals for the VIRA series this year. STARR placed 7th overall in the team standings.

Results for the VIRA series

Stephanie Croft – 4th

Melanie Eskildsen – 7th

Pauline Nielsen – 3rd

Maggie Curtis – 4th

Steve Eriksen – 10th

Bruce Hawkes – 1st

STARR has had an amazing season. Congratulations to all of our runners.

Andy. Courtesy of Lois DeEll

Leslie Ann. Photo courtesy of Lois DeEll

Bruce

Maggie

Vancouver Island Trail Running Series – Royal Roads, April 9 2022

By Leslie Ann Bent

The Vancouver Island Trail Running Series got off to a great start today with over 400 runners taking part in the first event of 2022. The Royal Roads race was the first of six in the series that take place between April and October. The race offers two distances – a 10k long course and a 6k short course. The website boasts “a fast, flowy and beautiful single track that is sure to impress even the seasoned trail runners.” If you are new to trail running, this is definitely a race to consider as it’s scenic, close to Sooke and has distance options.

The long course attracted 204 participants. STARR had two runners who tackled it. Marika (F40-49) was our first runner to cross the finish in an amazing time of 57:47, placing 4th overall in her age group. Pauline also got into the spirit of the race, finishing 1:11:19.

The long course was won by Brady Goreski (M30-39) of Victoria with a time of 44:25. On the women’s side, Patricia Roney (F30-39) of Winnipeg, took home first place, crossing the finish line at 46:02. Mike Walker (M30-39) of Victoria won the short course with a time of 26:40. Michelle Mark (30-29) of Cumberland was first in the women’s category, netting 30:19. It was a deep field with runners from near and far.

Both STARR runners captured some personal thoughts about the race.

Marika Nagaska- It was windy and felt chilly on arrival but turned out to be nice running weather with only one short section on the course where I felt some headwinds. Otherwise, the course was good, It started off pretty flat but a few km's in it turned into more challenging single track and some good climbs. I fortunately had someone in sight the whole time so it was easy to follow the trail but I think probably more than a few people went off course on some of the single track. It was lovely to run along Colwood Creek as we approached the end, that was the most scenic part of the course and was a lot more fun than running up the steep road (as you do in the road race) to the top parking area where the Start/Finish is. There was hardly any mud on the trail, just a couple spots on the last few km's. I got to see Pauline once we were done so that was really nice. All the volunteers were awesome as per usual and the post-race food was a pretty good selection, complete with pancakes!

Pauline Nielsen – It was a great day for a run. The sun was shining. Much better than the forecast for rain. I was still in the long line for bathrooms when the race began. I headed out about 10 minutes late by myself. Despite the ribbons I still veered off course about 4 times. I was running around in there like a squirrel 🐿 I managed to finish. Enjoyed myself and ran into Marika after the race.

A huge congratulations to our fearless runners. The next race in the series is Cobble Hill on May 14th. Why not give it a try?

STARR's 3rd Annual Around the Bay Simulation

By Leslie Ann Bent

This weekend marked our third annual simulation run of Hamilton, Ontario's famous Around the Bay Race, known to be North America's oldest race. Seventeen of STARRs fabulous runners and walkers participated. The goal was to complete a total of 30km per team. We had a few runners who wanted to run but had to bow out for various reasons and Marika kindly offered to be a 15km spare for a runner in need, using a hard, hilly course near home for a rainy run before work. Robin's daughter, Lila also came out to test her 5k time while her dad ran with the Riding Chickens (same team for three years in a row). A big shout out to Danny who walked the full 30k! Andy ended up on two teams. He'd anticipated running with Marika (virtual) but Scott arrived with no partner so they teamed up for the in-person.

It was so nice to see so many people out. The out and back format appealed to many as they were able to spot other runners. There was a 200km cycling adventure happening on our Galloping Goose route so we saw some cyclists whizzing by.

In case you're curious how things turned out, here are the results. Please note that those who ran their section as virtual may have used a different course depending on where they were when they ran:

3-personTteams

1. Riding Chickens - Jackie, Steve K, Robin 2:46

2. Jim B, Paul, Mark 2:58

3. Stephanie, Pascale, Melanie 3:22

4. Vanessa, Kari, Crystal 3:48

2-person Teams

1. Andy & Scott 2:31

2. Maggie & Steve E 2:48

3. Marika & Andy 2:55

Solo (walking)

Danny 5:45

Congratulations to everyone.

Westcoast Sooke River 10k – 5 Medals, 5 Ribbons and a Familiar Location

By Leslie Ann Bent

Yesterday was a great day to race in our club of Sooke  – little wind, no rain and an overcast 10C.  Our runners know this route quite well. It’s a hilly out and back course from the high school to the Potholes gate on Sooke River Road.  With 11 participants plus Megen and Greg to cheer and support us, we had quite a STARR show for the run. There was lot of time to catch up before and after the race. Plus, with an out and back course, it was great to be able to see our fellow runners out on the course and cheer each other on. Lots of thumbs up. The race attracted 332 participants.

The first STARR across the finish line was Andy (M60-64) with a time of 41:03.  This earned him a 3rd place age-group finish just 8 seconds behind the first-place runner. Wataru wasn’t far behind, as he made his debut race on Canadian soil with an impressive time of 43:42 – a second place age-group finish for him. On the women’s side, Marika (F40-44) was our first female to cross the finish line with a time of 49:40 – a 2nd place medal for her!  Pauline (F50-54) once again did the club proud with a 3rd place medal. Bruce (80-84) also earned some hardware – 2nd place for him.

The race always attracts some fast runners and this year was no exception, although no course records were made. The first runner to complete the course with a good lead, was Logan Roots of Courtenay (M25-29) with a time of 32:27. On the women’s side, Christine Bant of Victoria (F30-34) crossed the line at 37:59.  The competition was steep with the top 10 runners all under 38 minutes, and the top 22 runners under 40 minutes. 

A special thanks to Megen for coming out to support us and to take some great photos.  Greg too joined the STARR cheering squad.  It’s always nice to see familiar faces in the crowd. Thanks to you both!

A few personal thoughts on the race:

Andy Smith – There was a great turnout form our club and for the field in general. There was a nice vibe with everything so well organized and runners eager to race. The familiar course was good.

Wataru Hirota – It was tough!

Jim Bouthillier – The weather was perfect.  (His first race in about 3 years)

Leslie Ann Bent – I agree with everything the others said.  It’s also fun to meet new people with a common thread.  At the start line, I chatted with a woman wearing a Team Diabetes shirt.  It turned out we’d run a marathon for Diabetes Canada in the same year back in 2002 and both have other done races for the cause with many years of type 1 diabetes under our belts. She’d asked if I’d been on the cover of Diabetes Dialogue about 20 years ago (I was), and she said I’d inspired her to run for the cause.  It was a touching and uplifting way to start the race.

STARR results (Clock Time)

Andy Smith M60-64                      41:03 (3rd)

Wataru Hirota M16-19                 43:42 (2nd)

Steve Eriksen M45-49                   48:01 (10th)

Marika Nagasaka F40-44              49:40 (2nd)

Claude LaForce M60-64               50:45 (9th)

Jim Bouthillier M70-74                 52:05 (4th)

Pauline Nielsen F 50-54                53:59 (3rd)

Maggie Curtis F50-54                    57:26 (5th)

Melanie Eskildsen F40-44            58:02 (7th)

Bruce Hawkes M80-84                 1:14 (2nd)

Leslie Ann Bent F55-59                 1:32

Congratulations to all of the STARR runners.

Witty cheer squad

Jim

Comox Valley RV Half Marathon 2022

By Leslie Ann Bent

Sunday marked the annual Comox Valley RV half marathon as part of the VIRA series.  It was a popular race with 415 runners taking part.  The rain held off for the event and runners had a dry window for racing.  The website describes the course as a “rural out and back course with views of Mt. Washington, Forbidden Plateau and Tsolum and Puntledge Rivers. PBs are set on this course with a net downhill after the turnaround.”  If you enjoy half marathons, this is a race not to be missed.

Six STARR members were out to compete.  Steve Eriksen was our first STARR to cross the finish line with a time of 1:46:26. Close behind, breathing down Steve’s neck was our first female runner, Stephanie Croft 11 seconds behind with a time of 1:46:37.  Bruce Hawkes didn’t disappoint with a first-place finish in the M80-84 age category. Melanie Eskildsen completed her first half marathon. Yay Melanie!

The VIRA series has been attracting a fast field this year and this race was no exception.  The first runner to finish was Olympian Trevor Hofbauer (M30-34) of Peachland, BC with a time of 1:08:21.  Christine Bant of Victoria led the female field, crossing the line with a time of 1:25:15.  There were no course records this year.  The top 12 runners all ran under 1:20.

Steve had this to say about the race. “The race was great. The hills were mild and gradual. The rain held off for us again. It was a bit chilly, but they also had chili, so that was lovely. A great route and a great turnout.”

STARR results

Steve Eriksen M45-49              1:46:26

Stephanie Croft F45-49          1:46:37 (7th)

Pauline Nielsen F50-54          1:55:09 (6th)

Maggie Curtis F50-54             2:02:31 (9th)

Melanie Eskildsen F40-44      2:09:53

Bruce Hawkes M80-84           3:17:39 (1st )

A huge congratulations to all of our runners.  We’re very proud of you.

Photos below courtesy of Joe Crazy Legs

2022 Harriers Pioneer 8k Road Race

By Leslie Ann Bent

It was a rainy, windy day when seven STARRS headed out to North Saanich to take part in the 43rd Harriers Pioneer 8k race. This fast and flat out and back course is rural and takes advantage of quiet roads. It tends to attract a strong elite field as well as many recreational runners. This year, the race was the BC 8k Road Race Championships. 

By the time the race started, the rain had subsided and the sun came out. Nearly 400 participated this year.  STARR also had its own cheering squad thanks to Megen and some of the club’s children.

It was an exciting race at the finish line for our first STARR runner, Andy Smith.  As he neared the finish mat, another runner in the same age group flew past him, clocking 32:05 to Andy’s 32:07, earning Andy a 3rd place age-group finish. Stephanie Croft was our first female runner to complete the course with a time of 39:03, collecting a 6th place age-group finish.  Once again, Bruce Hawkes took 1st place in the M80-84. 

The competition was tough.  Tristan Woodfine from Ontario (M25-29) flew through the finish line, clocking 23:10. The BC 8k championship was won by the second-place winner, Brendan Wong (M25-29) of Coquitlam in 24:31. Andrew Russell of Victoria won the master’s division with an incredible time of 25:23. Two-time Olympic steeple chaser Genevieve Lalonde (New Brunswick) of the UVic Track team was the first female to cross with a speedy time of 25:58. The top BC female athlete was Kate Ayers from Victoria, finishing 27:31. The top female master was Jen Millar, also from Victoria, clocking 28:20. The top 19 runners ran in less than 27 minutes. It was truly a competitive field.

I caught up with some of our runners and here’s what they had to say about the race.

Andy - “It was fun. It’s a flat and fast out and back course. This race has a nice vibe. I got to see every body. Well organized. Fun to be back on the race scene and see lots of familiar faces previous years.” 

Steve E, - “I was just happy that the atmospheric river gave us a little break while we ran. How lucky were we!! Also, Yay for pizza! They even had Gluten Free. What a great day. I think that was my fastest 8k by about 6 seconds. I even had enough gas in the tank to pass a few at the finish line. Also, this was the first race that my 2 daughters got to watch... alongside Megen and her 2 daughters.”

Maggie – “The course is amazing.  It is an out and back with lovely little ponies and pastures and a stretch by the water.  There are no big hills.  I found it a good run and I was able to pace myself fairly well.”

STARR Results

Andy Smith (M60- 64)                  32:07, 3rd

Steve Eriksen (M45-49)                36:47

Stephanie Croft (F45-49)              39:03, 6th

Pauline Nielsen (F50-54)              42:55, 7th

Maggie Curtis (F50-54)                 44:15, 8th

Melanie Eskildsen (F40-44)          44:32

Bruce Hawkes 58:47 (M80-84)   58:47, 1st

Congratulations to all of our STARR runners and supporters.

 

Virtual Tour of Sicily: The Finish Line, Beaches and a few unexpected Sports

A typical race finish for Sicilian races

Day 8 – Finale to Palermo and more (119km)

We only needed 96km to make it back to Palermo. But, we’re overachievers. Ten runners were out in full force today. We made it back a day earlier than planned and exceed our goal mileage of 1,101km by nearly 20k.  What a fabulous time we had sampling local cuisine, running races, tasting the wines, checking out beaches, learning some history and perhaps getting a glimpse of what distances our STARR members are running when they’re not out with the club. I for one, was very impressed with the mileage we achieved as a team in just over a week.

Robin was out bright and early before the Saturday club run and it paid off.  He was the lucky winner of the last bottle of Sicilian wine – a red from the Avola region, passing the 75km to the finish marker.  Mark found the hidden souvenir 50km outside of Palermo. Congrats to both.

Kari and I were surprised to hear the cheering as we neared Palermo.  Something must be happening we thought. As we entered the city, the crowd got louder. Kari was first to notice the real finish line of a race and took off leaving me in her dust.  She was first to cross under the finish line banner, earning a well-deserved Palermo medal.  I followed on her heels and managed to get the last medal. We were truly done. It felt so good to dip our tired feet into the turquoise sea at Mondello Beach in Palermo before heading back to Canada.

We did have a few surprises that might interest you.  While many were looking for sand and sea, Sarah brought along her trusty Canadian snowshoes.  Does it surprise you that February is the best month for snowshoeing in Sicily in the Nebrodi Mountain range? We passed that area in the north eastern region only a few days ago. Who knew Sicilians snowshoed? Another fun fact – Etna is another ideal Sicilian destination for snowshoeing.  We lost Sarah today to the mountains, so I’m told. 

Did you know that soccer is Italy’s national sport? Teresa was rumoured to bring her soccer cleats.  We lost her one day to a local match we think, trying out the game on Sicilian turf.

Today’s runners were Maggie (7.5k), Steve E. (7.5k), Greg (20k), Robin (21.5k), Mark (9k), Danny (10k), Jackie (11.6k), Kari (12k), Leslie Ann (10.1k) and Melanie E (10k). Although Sarah didn’t run, she snowshoed 8.5k, not included in our total. Teresa estimated 3k of running up and down a soccer field that was not included in our total.

To recap the week, 22 STARR members participated in the virtual challenge. Our STARR mileage guy was Danny who managed 200km in just 8 days.  Kudos to everyone who took up the challenge. Prizes will be given out at next Saturday’s run – P2 parking lot at the Potholes. Ken arrived safe and sound on Canadian soil yesterday, and will make a short presentation to those who won wine and medals.  Leslie Ann will give out the other prizes. If you aren’t there, other arrangements will be made for you to get them.

Virtual Tour of Sicily: The Tranquility of Sicily’s Northern Coast

Lampare Beach Castel di Tusa

Day 7: Caferi to Finale (111k)

We had a leisurely day along the Tyrrhenian Sea today on Sicily’s north eastern coast.  Nine runners were out for 111km, reaching a cumulative total of 1,006k in just a week!  We have less than 100km to go. I’m sure we can do it tomorrow.  We’ve completed 91% of our journey.

The northern coast has some picturesque places to see. We were lured into Capo D’Orlando by Megen’s smiling face who was cheering us on.  She recommended seeing the lighthouse and going for a dip. The commune is an important fishing village with several fish festivals to its name. it also boasts a chocolate festival. For tourists, the lure is a 2km beach of sand and pebbles.  Tory took advantage of the lighthouse tour and found a souvenir hidden in the tower!  Way to go Tory!

Another interesting spot we passed along the way was Castel di Tusa. In addition to 9km of coastline, there’s the Fiumara d’Arte, an open-air museum with sculptures and works by contemporary artists. Megen was either teasing us or motivating us as she cheered us promising wine later on the course. Marika was intrigued by the town, found the second hidden spot of the day among the sculptures. She won a cappuccino, espresso or treat at a café (Little Vienna gift card). Good work Marika!

Today’s runners include: Steve E. (8k), Maggie (8k), Tory (11.7k), Sarah M. (26k), Danny (20k), Jackie (5k), Marika (13k), Danny again (10k), Robin (5k) and Leslie Ann (4k).

It’s only fitting that we ended our day in a small tranquil seaside community called Finale.  Tomorrow will be the home stretch and our grand finale of the virtual tour of Sicily. There are a few hidden places left along the way for some prizes.  Good luck!

Virtual Tour of Sicily: Another great day of foods and sights

Ken in Barcellona

Day 6: Giarre to Messina to Barcellona to Caferi (164k)

Our rest day yesterday paid off. Fifteen runners and walkers were out in full force to advance our team towards the finish line. We finished our route north to Messina and then headed along the northern coast past Barcellona and onto our smallest town yet, Caferi with its population of 13! We cumulated another 164km, reaching 895K, and an impressive 81% of our goal. We will have no trouble meeting this 1,1101km challenge.

The highlights on this route were Messina and Barcellona. Messina is on the north eastern tip of Sicily. It’s a beautiful port city famous for its cathedral and bell tower, but also has great regional foods. I’m sure the runners sampled the local lunch options such as u-pituni messinese (traditional street food), the sciusceddu Messina (meatball & egg soup) or the focaccia messinese (with endive, anchovies and tuma cheese).

We were delighted to run into Ken in Barcellona just before he had to catch a flight back to Canada. Barcellona is a city on the north coast of Sicily, home to many Baroque style buildings.

There were 4 hidden spots on today’s route. Stephanie was first to find a souvenir in the small town of Chianchitta. Yay, Stephanie. Our next hidden spot was Messina. Andrea spotted the Italian treats there. Good eye, Andrea. The 75% complete milestone had a Running Room hat hidden there and Sarah M. was our lucky runner winning that today. Finally, Mark scooped up the Barcellona shirt concealed in that city.

Today’s runners and walkers included: Ken (10.5k), Stephanie (9.5k), Robin (4k), Marika (9k), Jenny (8.4k), Danny (another 30k, wow), Andrea (9k), Vanessa (5k), Kari (9k), Robin (out again 9k), Sarah M.(8.5k), Greg (wow 26k), Megen (4.1k), Mark 95k), Andy (10k) and Leslie Ann (6.9k).

All of our participants have found a prize and everyone is now eligible again for prizes until we hit the beaches of Palermo, marking the end of our club challenge. What prizes are left? More wine? Medals? Souvenirs? A cappuccino or espresso? Keep running and walking

Gallery below includes Cathedral of Messina, another Messina photo, a view of Messina, Barcellona photo from Ken, sciusceddu (Messina meatball-egg-beef broth soup), nzuddi biscotti, pituni messinese, and focaccia messinese.

Virtual Tour of Sicily: Beaches! Beaches!  and a race in Catania!

Augusta Beach, Agnone Sicily

Day 5 – Augusta to Catania to Giarre (91km)

I’m delighted to say that despite a recovery day, we are still ahead of schedule, clocking 91km with 11 runners and reaching 731km this week –  two thirds of the way to Palermo!

Brynn

We’re half way through the week and we’ve all been in need of a break.  When Brynn (Megen and Jason’s daughter) was cheering us on yesterday and welcoming us to Sampieri, she pointed out a beautiful beach there (near Ken).  It gave many of us the inspiration to take a needed sand and sea recovery day.  With so many beach options along the way we could spread out or hang out. Some possibilities along the Ionian coast on our planned route included Costa Saracena, Agnone (Augusta), and Santa Maria la Scala (Acireale) to name a few. 

A few keeners headed on to Catania, hoping to take in a race.  Maggie located the race, earning herself her first Italian medal from the secret location. Jenny came along right behind her to get the last Catania race shirt.  Good going ladies!  The gang had to sample the local cuisine before finishing their day in Giarre. The menu included rame di Napoli (soft chocolate cookies), minne di Sant’Agata (pastry filled with ricotta, dark chocolate and dried fruit, iced with a cherry on top), pistachios, and prickly pears.

Today’s runners included Teresa (3k), Andrea (4k), Leslie Ann (4k), Andy (10.1k), Danny (yes, another 30k!), Jackie (10k), Steve E (5k), Maggie (7k), Jenny (4k), Robin (7k) and Claude (7k).

Way to go STARR.  We’ll hopefully see many of you tomorrow evening for speed work, walking or running.