Tag Archive for: 3M Half Marathon

High Five Events is pleased to announce the partnership between the 2017 3M Half Marathon and TriggerPoint, the Official Recovery Product of Downhill to Downtown.

“TriggerPoint’s innovative products are known around the world and we are proud to have them as a partner to educate and support runners through their training and recovery,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events.

Based in Austin, Texas, TriggerPoint, creates innovative products that are supported by simple instructions that empower anyone to recover faster and move better. The company’s products are designed to provide safe, effective self-massage both before and after workouts to relieve tight muscles, improve mobility, speed up recovery, and improve movement. TriggerPoint’s signature foam rollers, massage balls, and hand-held rollers will be available in the 3M Half Marathon Recovery Zone to all racers.

“Our mission at TriggerPoint is to empower individuals to live out their passion through an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Janelle Ronquillo, Brand Director for TriggerPoint. “By partnering with the 3M Half Marathon, we can support runners during and post-training with products and education on how to recover faster and move better.”

The 3M Half Marathon boasts one of the fastest 13.1-mile courses in the country and will celebrate its 23rd year running in 2017. Runners will enjoy a point-to-point course with mostly downhill running that showcases some of Austin’s finest locations. Starting in north Austin and finishing in front of the Texas State Capitol, runners will appreciate a 306’ net elevation drop. Participants can register and book their hotel on the website.

A special series featuring four Austin runners and their journey as they train for the upcoming 3M Half Marathon and the Austin Marathon. Brought to you by CLIF Bar & Company, the Official Sports Nutrition of #downhilltodowntown17.

Name – Jason

Club – Rogue Running

1. What got you into running?

I ran a couple 10K events several years ago, but didn’t stick with it. Then I thought it would be good idea to run a marathon before I turned 40. I joined a training program and got hooked, running became my routine and I’ve met some great friends along the way.

2. How long have you been a runner?

I’ve been a “consistent” runner since December 2012. It started with a social 5K run “Jingle Run” at Rogue Cedar Park. Then I joined one of their intro programs. It’s been almost four years now and I’m still going strong.

3. What continues to motivate you to run?

Being part of a running group is essential for me. The team environment really motivates me, even on days I don’t want to roll out of bed at 4 a.m., knowing my teammates will be there makes me accountable. Training with Team Rogue constantly pushes me outside my comfort zone. I keep breaking my PRs, with no limits in sight. Oh, and the races, the energy and excitement of running with so many people is the greatest feeling! Finishing strong and celebrating that moment with friends and strangers, you feel on top of the world.

4. What does a typical long run Saturday look like in your world?

Typical Saturday long runs are with Rogue Cedar Park location. We typically run the neighborhoods of CP or Brushy Creek Trail. Generally running anywhere from 12-20 miles with a variety of people, typically a group of three or four of us will settle into a conversational pace. Stories are all over the place, amazing what you learn about people when running for three to four hours together. We typically stretch, roll, and have coffee back at Rogue after the run and spend time socializing. Generally done by 9:30 and get my weekend moving.

An Athlete’s Perspective is a blog series of event and/or training experiences written firsthand by the athlete themselves. An Athlete’s Perspective is a completely unscripted and raw look into the mind and daily life of an athlete as they prepare for their next race. Readers will discover training regimens, eating tips, gear recommendations, and an uncut perspective into the lives of people like you and me.

My Return to Austin

Preparing for Downhill to Downtown

by: Becki Spellman

2nd place 2008 Austin Marathon (2:43:43).

I can not wait to arrive in Austin! The city holds a special place in my heart. In 2008 I begged my way into the Austin Marathon as an elite. It was my first marathon, and while I was unsure about my ability over the distance, I wanted to compete well to thank John Conley, the race director at the time, for the opportunity.  That day, I qualified for the 2008 Olympic Marathon Trials.

I have since gone on to have nine successful years of running, qualifying for the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Marathon Trials. And it all started on the streets of Austin. If I hadn’t already adored Austin for its quirky, fun loving vibe, that race would have made me love it for sure. So coming back on January 22nd is very exciting for me; I am hoping Austin has a little magic left in store for me! I know I will pour my heart out on the course, take some chances, and hopefully come home with a PR!

Training has gone well, I have gone through a different cycle than I have in the past. I came out of the fall very strong, having run four marathons in 21 months, and wanted to work on some speedier things. So I made up my mind to come into the 3M Half under-cooked on the mileage side with more speed in my legs. I have averaged between 60-70 miles per week and have had some of the faster tempo runs I have been able to do in years.

2016 Olympic Marathon Trials (2:44:44).

I am eager to put my mental and physical strength to the test and see what I am currently capable of. As the nerves start settling in over the coming weeks, I will remind myself of the opportunity. It’s a privilege to be able to race and test my limits. I will remind myself of all the times I wanted to back down in training but instead told myself, “No one is going to hand this to you. You do the work, you meet your goals.” I have had to tell myself that countless times, and I am stronger for it. I coming into the 3M Half Marathon with hopes of a new PR (under 1:16:05). I know it will be a fun weekend, full of amazing people, an awesome race, and all in a place that I love!

To everyone racing, enjoy celebrating your hard work!  When the race gets tough, remember you are tougher! Good luck on race day! I am so excited to chase down goals alongside you!