January 2024
HAPPY NEW YEAR PACESETTERS!!
While we navigate our way through winter remember that it won't be long and warmer, longer days will be here again.
If our weather cooperates, we plan on holding our first Wednesday evening Fun Run in March this year. Stay tuned for more details.
FORMER PACESETTERS PRESIDENT ED LAU PASSES AWAY
Edward Arthur Lau, 78, of Appleton, embarked on his final adventure, departing this world on December 27, 2023, in a manner as vibrant as the life he lived.
His indomitable spirit was evident from an early age, a trait that would define his journey through life. His sister Mary attested to this, "Ed always was smiling, caring and had an unbelievable work ethic."
Edward bravely served as a cook in the United States Air Force during the tumultuous era of Vietnam. His resilience and courage during those times were testament to his unwavering dedication to duty and service to his country.
Upon his return, fate intervened, introducing him to the love of his life, Wanda. Their union was nothing short of legendary, a love story spanning 49 remarkable years until Wanda's peaceful passing in May of 2023.
A man of boundless generosity and community spirit, Edward was a force for good. He led the Pacesetters Running Club as president from 1997-1998. From 1994-1998, Ed created and organized a fundraising run/walk that became a beacon of hope for St. Joseph's Food Program. He also was the Fun Run Director for the Pacesetters from 1992-1994 and 1998. Also, his involvement in launching the Community First Fox Cities Marathon showcased his passion for running, a pursuit that fueled his enthusiasm and exemplified his enduring vigor.
Even in the face of loss, Edward continued to embrace life's offerings. He cherished moments at Timber Rattler's games with his daughter, Andrea, and reveled in the camaraderie at Vets and Friends in Appleton during their weekly meals.
Life's adversities never dimmed Edward's radiant smile nor quelled his unwavering spirit. His resilience was a testament to his unwavering determination to savor every moment, no matter the challenges.
Edward, your spirit and resilience will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing you.
FIFTY STATE MARATHON CLUB HOLDING REUNION THIS FALL AT COMMUNITY FIRST FOX CITIES MARATHON
The Fifty State Marathon Club is an international group of over 5,000 runners who either have completed, or aspire to complete a full marathon in each of the 50 US states. Every year they participate in quarterly reunion marathons at various locations around the US to help them complete their mission and for the camaraderie of their members. This year they have selected our Community First Fox Cities Marathon as one of their locations.
2/25/24 The Cowtown Marathon - Fort Worth, TX
4/28/24 Eugene Marathon – Eugene, OR
9/22/24 The Community First Fox Cities Marathon – Appleton, WI
11/24/24 Route 66 Marathon – Tulsa, OK
The Community First Fox Cities Marathon was previously selected in 2015 and 2006. Whether you plan on participating or not, this will be a great opportunity to meet many dedicated runners who are coming to our area.
RECENT BOOKS ABOUT RUNNING
Here are a selection of books about running and runners that you may be unaware of and might enjoy reading, or giving as a gift to another runner.
The Runner's Code – Chas Newkey-Burden, 2022
Smart advice on typical topics like running attire and race day nutrition, as well as less common topics like pavement etiquette and asking colleagues for race sponsorships.
Through a series of thought-provoking prompts and exercises, take a journey of self-reflection to better understand yourself and your relationship to running. Themes include Finding Inspiration, Pushing Through Adversity, Defying Expectations, and Finding Purpose.
Rise & Run – Shalene Flanagan & Elyse Kopecky, 2021
A cookbook with recipes, rituals and runs to fuel your day.
Born to Run 2: The Ultimate Training Guide – Christopher McDougall, 2022
A practical guide to running for everyone from amateurs to seasoned runners, about how to eat, race, and train like the world’s best. Whether ramping up for a race or recuperating from an injury, a program that centers on 7 key F-themes: food, fitness, form, footwear, focus, fun and family.
Kara Goucher grew up with Olympic dreams. She excelled at running from a young age and was offered a Nike sponsorship deal when she graduated from college. Then in 2004, she was invited to join a secretive, lavishly funded new team, dubbed the Nike Oregon Project. Coached by distance running legend Alberto Salazar, it seemed like the opportunity of a lifetime.
Good For a Girl: A Woman Running in a Man's World – Lauren Fleshman, 2023
Fueled by her years as an elite runner and advocate for women in sports, Lauren offers her inspiring personal story and a rallying cry for reform of a sports landscape that is failing young female athletes.
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