tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46984104354563434252024-03-18T19:49:48.673-07:00PACE OF CONRADRYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-73109104274607857272010-01-11T17:02:00.001-08:002010-01-11T17:04:03.975-08:00MOVING...I made the switch to WordPress...please check me out at the new location... <a href="http://www.paceofconrad.wordpress.com">www.paceofconrad.wordpress.com</a>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-85201791606747943012010-01-05T11:46:00.000-08:002010-01-05T13:32:49.558-08:00Elton.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPmE88Orix9N4weIATaUs9OsV4LU4ah4PA0cv8dqgha4mJf_lxCAjPsYrer-AcpFFjbttSQpi_jWcNstDVSNyJo6OvHJ9UDDlR9QRGRf5IopUDlUK8Isz1KMrbBrFmgrfs27wOIVEmYg/s1600-h/PH2009120901820.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 350px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 195px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423345258802125858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPmE88Orix9N4weIATaUs9OsV4LU4ah4PA0cv8dqgha4mJf_lxCAjPsYrer-AcpFFjbttSQpi_jWcNstDVSNyJo6OvHJ9UDDlR9QRGRf5IopUDlUK8Isz1KMrbBrFmgrfs27wOIVEmYg/s400/PH2009120901820.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Two subjects I have no interest in discussing on here: politics and religion. However, today I want to tell you about my new friend, Elton, who’s story makes your heart hurt no matter what side of the Health Care debate you’re on. His story literally made it from the running trails, to the headlines of a local Maryland paper, the whole way to the Washington Post.<br /><br />During the holidays, I was invited to my friend’s Christmas party. As I walked in, I felt like I was at a VIP party of Who’s Who’s of distance running for the region, more specifically the Who’s Who’s of ultramarathons, including past winners and Race Director of the <a href="http://www.jfk50mile.org/">JFK 50 Miler</a> (one of the most historic ultras in the U.S.)<br /><br />During the night, I quickly became settled in talking to a very unassuming older man about running strategies. As time pasted, I quickly learned so much about Elton’s life from being a standout distance runner in his early years, to one day deciding to start training 100+ miles a week, to launching himself to JFK ultramarathon history. It’s funny, because I didn’t learn any of this from him. Rather it was from the people who continued to come up and shake hands with him and drop comments such as “you’re talking to the ledged” or inquiring about his health. I believe this speaks volumes to Elton’s character, a very humble individual who has the gift to captivate your full attention and teach you a few life lessons along the way. Throughout the night I kept thinking to myself how I wish I could pull out my Blackberry and Google Elton’s name so I could get the full scoop.<br /><br />After the party, I hustled to my laptop and clicked through numerous hits…<br /><br />Here is a quick statement from the JFK crew that sums up Elton’s story:<br />“Thank you to everyone who so generously contributed to help Elton Horst (the '71 JFK 50 Champ and former course record holder who fell between the "cracks" of medical insurance coverage) pay off his $5,000 in outstanding medical bills associated with his current heart condition --mitra valve prolapse. The JFK 50 Mile Family really stepped-up to help one of our own. We are now trying to continue to raise funds for Elton in order to help him purchase medical insurance to bridge-him-over until he qualifies for Medicare when he turns 65 in December 2010. Elton will eventually need surgery to correct his condition.”<br /><br />Below is the Washington Post story on Elton (very well written, so I’ll let the professionals really explain his story)….<br /><a href="http://tiny.cc/5Gy0z"><strong>ARTICLE</strong></a><br /><br />Meeting Elton and learning his story reaffirmed my belief that runners from all walks of life are some of the kindest individuals, despite what side of the political arena we find ourselves. After reading the Post article I hope you can reflect and find your “Elton” in your life and help make a difference. If you have any interest in helping Elton, please email me: <a href="mailto:ryanpconrad@gmail.com">ryanpconrad@gmail.com</a> and I would be glad to pass along Elton’s contact info.<br /><br /><strong><em>The human contribution is the essential ingredient. It is only in the giving of oneself to others than we truly live.</em></strong> </div>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-5342995602611128372010-01-04T11:51:00.000-08:002010-01-04T12:08:34.909-08:00My Agent Tells Me I Should Run These Races...A new calendar year brings a new set of races. 2010 will usher in one of my longest standing goals, which is to run the JFK 50. This race means a lot to me for a variety of reasons and after crewing for my friend in ’09 I now know that 2010 is my year. I intend to post a detailed blog about the significance of the JFK 50 in the coming weeks.<br /><br />Outside of tackling the JFK I plan to check out at least one more marathon. After my first marathon, my mom (bless her heart) gave me one of those 26.2 stickers for my car. I feel like I need to run a few more so when people ask me about the sticker I can name drop the marathons.<br /><br />I plan to also enjoy some unique races such as the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Xterra</span> Trail Race and the Allen Stone. If you ever get a chance, you need to do an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Xterra</span> race. They hold them throughout the country and the organizers always put on a great event. I did one of their events in PA a few years ago and I was lucky enough to the win the race. As a thank you for making the three hour trip the Race Director hooked me up with some gear. I will always remember how down to earth everyone was during the event.<br /><br />Below, you will see a 24 Hour Race penciled in for May. This is still up in the air for a variety of the factors. A good friend of mine has organized a team (4 of us) to run this race, but I’m not sure how my body will handle it. It’s an 8 mile trail run that repeats itself with each member switching on and off. The main goal for our team is break the current course record for a team. Which would force me to run 4-5 laps (32-40 miles).<br /><br />Knowing me I’ll probably switch a race or two around and add another one in it’s place. I really would like to find a sprint <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">TRI</span> as well. Let me know of any legit cool races in the Mid-Atlantic! If you plan on running one of the races listed below, please let me know!<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Btw</span>, do you say 2,010 or 20-10? Somebody make this decision for me.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.vifl14k.com/">Virginia is for Lovers 14k</a>- Virginia Beach, VA February<br /><a href="http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/">Shamrock Marathon</a>- Virginia Beach, VA March<br /><a href="http://www.dismalswampstomp.kalerunning.com/">Dismal Swamp 1/2 Marathon</a>- <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Chespeake</span>, VA April<br /><a href="http://www.athletic-equation.com/endurance-events.html">24 HOUR ADVENTURE TRAIL RUN</a>-Washington, DC- May<br /><a href="http://http//www.xterraplanet.com/xduro/richmond.html"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Xterra</span> Trail Race (10k)- </a>Richmond, VA June<br /><a href="http://www.allenstonememorial.com/">Allen Stone Memorial Run-Swim-Run</a>- Virginia Beach, VA -July<br /><a href="http://www.allaccess5k.com/">All Access 5k-</a> I’m the Race Co-Director so I guess I should show up. (new site being launched soon) Virginia Beach, VA- September<br /><a href="http://www.virginia-beach.competitor.com/">Rock N Roll 1/2 Marathon</a>- Virginia Beach, VA-August<br /><a href="http://www.wicked10k.com/">Wicked 10k</a>- Virginia Beach, VA-October 2010<br /><a href="http://jfk50mile.org/">JFK 50 Miler</a>- <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hagerstown</span>, MD- NovemberRYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-24665477840838363912010-01-01T16:24:00.000-08:002010-01-01T16:37:22.171-08:00Who Needs Stickers? I Have Blisters.<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As I settled in to watch the Oregon/Ohio State football game, I noticed the stickers plastered on the Buckeye’s helmets (they probably didn't even deserve them-GO PSU). Being a huge college football fan I often see teams that recognize their players who unleash great plays throughout the season with helmet stickers. </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What are runners’ stickers to prove that we work just as hard as other athletes?</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">- Toenails cracking with some nice shades of black and blue</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">- Blisters (Picture below was the latest blister thanks to the Richmond Marathon)</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">- Bloody Nipples</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This is what I cherish about running, everyday we punish our bodies without any public recognition. Yet for many of us we wouldn't have it any other way.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Happy New Year--Here’s to 2,010 (20-10) and many more running stickers!</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_zTvBLNC27m-r3I1oX5r8EHijTbemz-mCdBMRR0mNdLYPzw8dQDJc-Nt7Upcu3EN9l9TYQxy7zb7Fwdu3emXoLaCh4ytaYk8fv98VfRSkNjmNMb1yA1QadUYdkgf6_lD5YRNFVRyjf4/s320/33-49373-F.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421932918447030674" /><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 221px; height: 166px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-kj7zyqmM3WydoYn_-lqMlG2sbwZmFac74Xu-HpUEcId_Sz86DLPg3q23th6SQtFvXwuYLFzBv4ZU_rL_DbgSMOWscj6qxF1TNCBj0J2zTYMQqXVgTnP-UXI7wkE0BdcF4cihZBgar4/s400/mail.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421933425982420610" /></span></p>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-30138339812884216012009-12-30T06:39:00.000-08:002009-12-30T07:21:26.105-08:00When Nature Calls...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBt30s6xjvRuipOpROESZk2ioflDY-LPyqVTw4uo6sLjacoCWvY9JVonu9_1gcITHxk5-9BkRyCwURKKota2gqbsZjm_iryz5y5a4PrwFswVit-n91zJOANsxIcfGBhuckeafZNlSljt4/s1600-h/062709_05451.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBt30s6xjvRuipOpROESZk2ioflDY-LPyqVTw4uo6sLjacoCWvY9JVonu9_1gcITHxk5-9BkRyCwURKKota2gqbsZjm_iryz5y5a4PrwFswVit-n91zJOANsxIcfGBhuckeafZNlSljt4/s400/062709_05451.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421042688646642882" /></a><br /><br /><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When I ran xc/track in college I had the same routine, which always had to include at least 71 (ok, maybe 3) stops to the porta potties. I will always recall the race in which I was literally running to starting line after hearing “one minute to race time” as I closed the door.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Since then, I’ve always taken note of the massive amounts of runners at the potta potties and always find myself asking questions. So today, I am finally ready to confess my questions and have even did some research (thanks Google) to find a couple answers...</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1. Why don’t running companies brand the porta potties with signs (not permanent of course)? This would be a great way to advertise your company since so many runners are staring at the awful greenish blue color for minutes on end. If anyone wants to go into business with me and start designing such signs hit me up (<a href="http://twitter.com/iamconrad">@iamconrad</a>). Being the Co-Race Director for a 5k, I think it’s about time I start placing flyers next to the porta potties at other races. At least we would have something to look at as we wait in line.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2. So how does a Race Director figure out how many to place for us? I always feel like we could use a little more porta potty love. Thanks to the Boston Marathon Race Director, </span></span><span style="font: 13.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Dave McGillivray, </span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I have the answers....</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><div> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal Arial; "><span style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">“</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Traditionally, we have always used a 1:100 ratio -- one porta potty for every 100 runners. However, now that 50% or more of participants are female, that ratio needs to change... more like 1:75 or even 1:50. Then the question becomes, Do you have enough space to place all these units and place them in the best possible location, that is, as close to the starting line as possible?”</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Arial; color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Arial; color: #333333"></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3. Why do spectators always have the urge to use them 4 mins before the race? Listen lame spectator, we are about to run a 1/2 Marathon, I think you can wait the extra few mins. How about you go over there and take another 12 photos of the starting line? Thanks, Ryan. There are just some things in life I will never understand.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">4. Is it ok to strike up a conversation with others while we wait in the endless line?? I’ve always felt like it’s kind of weird, but I was so close to saying something to the cute girl at the Rock N Roll 1/2 Marathon last year in Virginia Beach. Obviously, you guys don’t know me, but I’m a sucker for cute girls, especially runners. Hey, maybe it’s worth it?...Sure would make for an interesting story at the wedding.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5. I also want to start going to races and hustle hand </span></span><span style="font: 17.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">sanitizer</span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and TP near the bathrooms. I really feel like we could score a killer ROI...seems like a booming business. Who’s in??</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">BIG shout out to Brooks...Check out this </span><a href="http://talk.brooksrunning.com/2008/10/06/the-brooks-vip-porta-potty/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">link</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> about Brooks’ VIP Bathroom at the Marine Corp Marathon. Stellar idea. </span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnObO6NgRF0dGNavEx-AiUbVug0lXXFYw6n7wmegy9JAUi-qEUTrBN4-p-hDXYyeQJrbEYZPAx6ZeZI_JJmT863lwbap5xy3WUQpsoI9KlYspc9pp65zNNVU-e5Cld5e1iMnwPDNAGVA/s320/potty1-300x190.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421042132318119906" /></p><p></p></div><p></p>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-40533148830033303482009-12-29T06:37:00.000-08:002009-12-29T07:53:33.721-08:00Need a spring marathon...shamROCK ON!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDZYbt7Ep7Yi_PtO_3_l9L2DAxVaQgtOaahgH6oOM8vV7CWyKt-fwzhs-OAZv7U8D42mmS9lhkqpnNCQf-PV5T5Q9T8E72NEFekniv-UPN6ajmUHQYiZy5EXqJ1Zk6W4JS73FrTFwR8s/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDZYbt7Ep7Yi_PtO_3_l9L2DAxVaQgtOaahgH6oOM8vV7CWyKt-fwzhs-OAZv7U8D42mmS9lhkqpnNCQf-PV5T5Q9T8E72NEFekniv-UPN6ajmUHQYiZy5EXqJ1Zk6W4JS73FrTFwR8s/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420675911079419842" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Shamrock Marathon (1/2 and 8k) will be taking place March 20/21, 2010 and they have me on the hook again. After dropping a 10 min PR last year in the 1/2 I plan to tackle the full marathon. Granted, a 1</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">0 min PR was due to more training, but several other factors played into the drop....the course is very flat and the weather is perfect for distance running in March (45-55 degrees). The course takes you along the oceanfront which provides for some stellar views. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Shamrock was Runner Up, as the Most Family-Friendly Marathon by Runner’s World Magazine in the January 2010 issue. I actually ran the Richmond Marathon back in November which at one time was voted the Friendliest Marathon in the U.S. Nothing against Richmond, but Shamrock blows them out of the water. From a great expo, to the very family friendly event, and the BEST after party you can’t replace this marathon experience. The party takes place on the BEACH with a huge tent that holds such goodies as a great band, hot soup, and BEER. Treat yourself to a few beers after you rock a PR- you won’t be sorry! </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Maybe, I am a little bias since I live less than 5 miles from the start and the folks over at J&A Racing are some of the nicest people out there, but I truly believe you WONT forget the racing experience. Hit me up on twitter (</span><a href="http://www.twitter.com/iamconrad"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">@iamconrad</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">) if you will be attending race weekend. I have a huge crew coming into town so I’m thinking about holding a large pasta party Friday night.</span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Only 80 days, 21 hours until the gun....SIGN UP already!</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">PS- added bonuses: sweet Brooks tech shirts and killer medals!<br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><span style="text-decoration: underline ; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a href="http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.shamrockmarathon.com</span></a></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px ;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><span style="text-decoration: underline ; letter-spacing: 0.0px"><a href="http://www.jandaracinginc.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.jandaracinginc.com</span></a></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px ;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">/ (for their other races) </span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNoZr3nxZZezVu6i61bYIAllZQJgsfBejl1V8cevrEBPPfro0MZvHynbq15LToBu6Brwg6HTKhoDm-_vSFQ9MGk1_KphOJyMuaiwGVUer5Le-KuLC8vCnazjEsfzsrhZ4LafFNK-CX2w8/s200/n75900212_30858361_4056809-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420669346886229346" /><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mvCY1-TeWVRkoVc8y5jkLsqzHKphbYxv_4TS0Xl6-hiB8hKqDLfA5hTWCdPIFij77vx21o59dxNEGgkdq8DEZgaD9prAV2HtckzobcK93AgRlJsGmx9JMafG_3n88ZxfZuburZ4xGdw/s200/n75900212_30858354_6346262.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420668996001296530" /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p color="#000099" style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color: #000099"><br /></p>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-87522336967786800002009-12-28T06:40:00.000-08:002009-12-28T06:49:50.155-08:00I’ll bring the popcorn (and Powerbars), who wants to see ATHLETE?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pJqQT4JlKkjl93KRnPM6BX0on2xaIezRhbR5mvsvAwSlgyipi1K2L6CBXXesC0T9m-4I2IZbS0SJlWPXRkTVJRZpWXhnpGI8VkIdK8z-AMnuu7gErdr-LnxLvwzwl58suZGDeUwITgI/s1600-h/Athlete.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 142px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pJqQT4JlKkjl93KRnPM6BX0on2xaIezRhbR5mvsvAwSlgyipi1K2L6CBXXesC0T9m-4I2IZbS0SJlWPXRkTVJRZpWXhnpGI8VkIdK8z-AMnuu7gErdr-LnxLvwzwl58suZGDeUwITgI/s200/Athlete.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420298186524230034" /></a><br /><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Arial"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b>ATHLETE profiles four athletes as they pursue their goals of completing marathons and triathlons. I’m stoked for ATHLETE, because we finally get to see ordinary people instead of checking out a documentary that might follow elite marathons or triathletes</b></span><span style="font: 17.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px">.</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><b> The four everyday athletes David Lam profiles range from a cancer survivor, a blind man, and twin sisters. This documentary drops March 9, 2010. Check it out: </b><span style="text-decoration: underline ; letter-spacing: 0.0px color:#000099;"><b><a href="http://www.athletemovie.com/">www.athletemovie.com</a></b></span><b><a href="http://www.athletemovie.com/"> </a></b></span><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></p></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial;font-size:10px;"><object width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YqgpxmO_upQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YqgpxmO_upQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="295"></embed></object></span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre;font-family:Arial;font-size:48px;"><br /></span></div>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-7400991517565011152009-12-24T05:45:00.000-08:002009-12-24T06:05:43.420-08:00Go Ahead and Drink that FatYears ago I attended a running camp (call me lame now). Outside the obvious fact of running a ton, we also listened to numerous guest speakers. I always recall one of the speakers who spoke about hydrating your body for peak performance. His main focus was to bash how bad soda was for an athlete and for that matter anyone's body. He had me so convinced with all his facts that soda just wasn't for me anymore. I still know plenty of athletes who drink soda, including my old college xc coach who is known to carry around a Mt. Dew bottle throughout the day. However, I can officially say that, "Hi, my name is Ryan and I have been soda free since 2003." Granted, I do drink soda at times, but I'm not a weekly or even monthly user. And now I present to you a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEKzdrzjG7o">great soda video</a> that demonstrates why I gave my habit...<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre; "><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zEKzdrzjG7o&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zEKzdrzjG7o&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object></span>PS: It's soda, NOT Pop.<br /></div></div>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-26648487777289831532009-12-22T18:45:00.000-08:002009-12-22T18:55:59.182-08:00Road ID<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVavo2VFyjQsX5AGcSBM6WZ_VCaDOvzUdyk3SffHQux0-ZlRL7XJCvcIxzuqlcPSasJJsfsWpQaQaGA5yik4YiSwCBrWLAZErKMSE9At8-a-ehG5LAC4fSJih1f8dHRSMlqp2LJAAtI0g/s1600-h/roadid_vertical.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVavo2VFyjQsX5AGcSBM6WZ_VCaDOvzUdyk3SffHQux0-ZlRL7XJCvcIxzuqlcPSasJJsfsWpQaQaGA5yik4YiSwCBrWLAZErKMSE9At8-a-ehG5LAC4fSJih1f8dHRSMlqp2LJAAtI0g/s200/roadid_vertical.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418259088529934722" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p></div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande; min-height: 13.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Enough with the bouncing necklace against my chest! Since we can’t all be perfect, I was blessed with being very allergic to a few medications. When I was younger this prompted my parents to order me a Medic Alert necklace in case I was ever seriously injured the EMTs could look to my necklace to see what they were working with.</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">As time faded, my necklace was “misplaced” which allowed me run freely without the necklace bouncing around. Even though the necklace was “misplaced” at times I still found myself wondering what if... something happened during a run, especially a 20 miler when i was out in the middle of no where by myself. Thanks, to the power of word of mouth I discovered </span><a href="http://www.roadid.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">RoadID</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> this past year. RoadID allows runners (or anyone for that matter) to have a way to be properly ID if something horrible was to occur and they would be unresponsive. </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande; min-height: 13.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> It’s great to see so many people wearing the bracelets or even the shoe tags while I’m out training. Even elite athletes have been seen wearing them during events such as the IRONMAN. If it’s cool enough for an IRONMAN to wear one, I guess I can get away with it too. I truly believe in this product which prompted me to order two during this holiday season. I’m stoked to be able to start wearing mine while giving my Dad his on Christmas. Hopefully, no one will ever have to look at our bands, but it’s worth the $19-$29 investment! Now if I could just win their holiday giveaway.</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Lucida Grande"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:16px;"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 96px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqahu3EolCGNnLWYMppV-jDQXccfF76iBjhmELlMC0bG1Yof5GbDEbEmbZO4mz7GF-ZGFiXgoSInN2ale3wLUa0mMdlOZhPC3Dii0Se8to6qe0AL1NgJ5FvgGGT-d9YtjvGWk_1o_uBY/s200/products_wristid_lg.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418258181665160674" /></span></p>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-789817245158918262009-12-22T16:44:00.001-08:002009-12-22T16:54:27.142-08:00still holds true...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Upon graduating from Juniata College in 2008 I had the privilege of delivering the commencement address. Lately, I find myself returning to the quotes I used in my speech for daily inspiration. Thought I would share my message with you...</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Dr. Andrus once said…<br />The human contribution is the essential ingredient. It is only in the giving of oneself to others that we truly live. <br />Class of 2008, Juniata Administration and Faculty, friends and family this very quote was scribbled down amongst many others in a letter sent to me by my grandmother that echoed the theme of giving. As I debated what to say today I knew my grandmother might have the answer after all she has pretty good advice concerning dating and she was the one who has shook her head at me when I came home from my 13 mile runs and told me I was hurting myself. Wouldn’t you know it a few weeks later I was out for the season with a stress fracture. It only makes sense that I would turn to her to help guide me today.<br />Standing in front of you is a humbling experience, I look up to you because of your many achievements. Many of you are much smarter, more athletic, more artistic, than I ever can be, but regardless, together we have a combined wealth of talent that is our responsibility to use in ways that are bigger than ourselves. When we reflect on our past four years here we can all say that we helped our school community and our fellow classmates in some way that brought us joy. From over 100+ student volunteers during the fall sectional of the Special Olympics held on our campus to everyone who participated for Relay for Life. Each of us gave of ourselves. <br />So you, like Dr. Andrus and my grandmother too hold the essential ingredient to life-- which is the gift of giving. Even though Dr. Andrus is not a house a hold name like Bill Gates or Oprah her life is not diminished just because we do not recognize her name nor will any of yours by continuing to give to others during the course of your life after graduation. You see none of us, including Dr. Andrus need to be on television to have a profound affect on the life of another.<br />I would like to tell you a story of the power of only a few dollars and a small coffee shop, you might have heard of it, Starbucks. A customer, who noticed the person behind them was not having the best day, told the cashier that they would be paying for the person behind them too. Without knowing it the customer who paid for both coffees started a chain reaction for the rest of the day. One lady in the Florida Starbucks was so surprised that someone would offer such a random act of kindness that she thought she was on Candid Camera.<br />This concept of “paying it forward “- giving without expecting anything in return has had a powerful affect on me. So today each senior is receiving a Starbucks gift card for five dollars. Please let this be a tangible metaphor for how to continue or even start a life of giving. In the coming weeks as we disperse across the U.S., and for that matter the world, I ask you to find a Starbucks and start making a difference with the card you were given today. I challenge you to walk into Starbuck, buy yourself a drink with your own money, but then hand the card to the customer behind you.<br />Sure- you might be tempted not to do this. What does five dollars or a cup of joe mean to anyone anyway you might be thinking?<br />Well just think back to last weekend when we came together for a benefit concert and were asked to chip in a few bucks to help a fellow student’s brother who is suffering from cancer. We must start a tradition of giving in both time and money, because as you see even the smallest act can make a big difference in someone’s life, and for that matter your own, and I hope the Starbucks card will serve as a starting point.<br />The last four years we have been immersed in a culture that is rich in tradition. When the going get tough and you stressed out in a few months about life and find yourself eating Ramen again, I encourage you to take your reinvent Mt. Day and give of yourself to help someone in need. Remember, the essential ingredient in life is the gift of giving by helping others and remember you are somebody special and important, even if you’re not famous for doing so.<br />Class of 2008, a quote that I live by daily is one by the late distance runner Steve Prefontaine. He once said, “To give anything less than you best is to sacrifice the gift.” His words resonate with me because in our lives so far we have been told to do our best no matter what by not giving our all we waste our gifts.<br />And in the stressful years ahead we will be told time and time again to work the 70 hour work week just to meet deadlines. But what is this all for? Just to add a few more digits to the pay check? What Prefontaine emphasizes is that we don’t give up in life, that we weather the storms because if we give up we are truly wasting our gifts. My friends, I wish you my very best, continue to strive for greatness, if we learn to use our gifts for the betterment of each other than the legacy of the Class of 2008 will truly live on forever.</span></span></span><br /></div>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698410435456343425.post-40104507633973475072009-12-22T16:36:00.000-08:002009-12-22T16:37:25.290-08:00dashing through the snow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKPbFxP2qDowcE3GAGVAHa3ByjpaVUN4eMToklTE0VEfDQ6m13rzI2ERg_bVbLttDeDNFsqze5xBFADBjt_Ca_KbsaolqidJ8quWMwzpsCXRsdi2MVJEKo46STuHi_VxZich15lCsTtU/s1600-h/IMGP1527.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKPbFxP2qDowcE3GAGVAHa3ByjpaVUN4eMToklTE0VEfDQ6m13rzI2ERg_bVbLttDeDNFsqze5xBFADBjt_Ca_KbsaolqidJ8quWMwzpsCXRsdi2MVJEKo46STuHi_VxZich15lCsTtU/s320/IMGP1527.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418224166431076978" /></a>RYAN CONRADhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14388279814263780509noreply@blogger.com0