May 18, 2008 - from the Green Bay Press Gazette:

Cool, windy weather couldn't stop a record-breaking 7,288 runners and walkers from turning out for Sunday's 2008 Cellcom Green Bay Marathon.

"We didn't have ideal weather, but there were no deaths, no serious injuries and no downpours," race director Sean Ryan said. "Any day runners can stay dry and healthy is a good day."

The race started at about 7:01 a.m. with runners heading east on Lombardi Avenue to compete in the 5-kilometer (3.1-mile), half-marathon (13.1-mile) and marathon (26.2-mile) events.

Fifteen minutes and 30 seconds later, Derrick Fameree of Algoma crossed the finish line as the winner of the 5K race.

Shadrack Muteri of Marietta, Ga., completed the half-marathon in 1:04:38. Jenna Boren of St. Paul, Minn., followed as the fastest woman at 1:19:40.

The marathon was won by Andrii Toptun, a Ukrainian from Miami, in 2:22:51. Callen Areba, a Kenyan from Coon Rapids, Minn., was the women's winner in 2:52:29.

Rocks!! and Friends participated in all events. Our 5k representatives were Lori Power from Marathon ON and Lynn Stubbings from Cobourg ON. Lori proudly explained this was her fastest 5k yet. She is still very new to competitive running. Lynn Stubbings from Cobourg ran solidly as she always does. Our 1/2 Marathon runners all hailed from Sudbury. Laura Schmitt led the pack of five, trailed slightly by Donna Smrek with Jennifer Wood and Lise Perdue close behind. This was Jennifer's first 1/2 marathon. George Gavrel finished off the group with a fast run/walk of the course. Ken Stubbings from Cobourg ON was our best marathoner turning a 2:58 and picking up 2nd place in his age group for his strong effort. Only 2 weeks ago Ken also turned a 2:58 in Sudbury placing 6th overall in that event. Jesse Winters did everything right in his run. He had two official goals going into the run. His first goal of qualifying for the Boston marathon was easily achieved. His time of 3:38:19 eclipsed his second goal of subbing 3:40. He had more accomplishments. He negatively split the marathon and went even harder after 20 miles which is definitely not easy to do. He also beat the Coach - which apparently was easy to do for Jesse. The Coach, Vince Perdue, ran his usual consistent pace, slightly negative splitting the course, running with Jesse for 15 miles and then observing his charge begin to create a gap that would not come back. So much for all the coaching advice in the first half. Never the less Vince was very pleased with his finishing time of 3:39:28 and absolutely proud of Jesse Winters. Jim Power from Marathon ON ran his third marathon in 3:54:37 -many minutes faster than his previous attempt. Jim expects to get his Boston qualifying standard soon. All Results Here   Ken Stubbing's Run Review The Green Bay marathon was an event which brought many memories. Lynn and my drive to and from Green Bay was via SS Badger car ferry across Lake Michigan (which is where I type this report from on my blackberry). That was something new for us. Green Bay hosted a Dart Throwing Competition, so our hotel was full with those competitors as well. There is a definite difference in physique between dart board people and runners. Think of it; people who hang at bars all night, drinking and throwing darts. Their stay made for a few noisy nights and lack of sleep. The marathon was 100 percent excellent. The expo, bussing, volunteers, spectators, baggage check, waters stations, and marathon scenery, and post race free beer and brats tail-gate party place this event in the top five. The route is enjoyable; ending with a tour around Lambeau Field. This is a very well run event. I recommend it to all. (We all heartily agree) Congratulations to Jessie on the start of his journey to Boston. I am surprised he did not stop for some time in the stadium. Hey Jessie, how are your legs? Mine are a little tight. As always the trip was the best because it was spent with Lynn, Lise, Vince, and the "Rocks". My personal run went better than expected. The start was cold, but Lise advised that I stick with the short sleeves. I am glad I listened to her. It was wonderful seeing Lise and Lynn at the finish. Our post race celebration at the steakhouse was great. I think that honkin big slab of meat in my stomach is still digesting. Thanks Vince for inviting us. We will see some of you next weekend in Ottawa. Ken

 

This coming Saturday and Sunday is Ottawa's famous Race Weekend. Sudbury and area is always well represented in all events there. Good luck All and stay tuned next week for results.

Saturday May 24th, 2008
MDS Nordion 5K (5:00PM)
MDS Nordion 10K (6:30PM)

Sunday May 25th, 2008
ING Ottawa Marathon (7:00AM)
ING Ottawa Marathon Walk (7:00AM)
ING Ottawa Half-Marathon (SOLD OUT
ING Ottawa Half-Marathon Walk (SOLD OUT
ING Family 2K (11:00AM)
Pfizer Wheelchair Marathon (6:45AM