The Last Race of 2017

ALS Logo

By Ralph —

My last race of the year was the Rock n Roll Half Marathon in Las Vegas. This was a very special race because we participated as part of a fund raiser for Team Quest for ALS, a fundraising branch of Augie’s Quest. With the help of ClubSport associates, members and vendors we were able to raise over $60,000 to fund research.ALS Vegas Start

This was particularly rewarding because it was a true team effort. Everyone stepped up to support the cause. We even had other large athletic clubs from around the country that participated in their own fund raising. I am very proud to be associated with the outstanding leaders of the The Atlantic Club, VIDA Fitness, and Greenwood Athletic Club.

 Participating in a race where the focus was far beyond me and my own fitness goals was awesome. The commitment of the Augie’s Quest team and all participants was truly inspiring.

My challenge to you for 2018 is to do a fundraiser race on some level. Find a race you want to do and a charity you want to support and make the commitment. It always helps to drag a few friends into the mix. I think you will find the experience gratifying.

ALS Group

Running through Las Vegas

By Ralph

I recently had to travel to Las Vegas for a work trip. It’s always tricky to keep the workout patterns intact while traveling, but with some planning and commitment it’s possible. 

When I get to a new city, I prepare for a morning run by first going on Google Maps and seeing what points of interest are within three miles of wherever I am staying.  I always look first for a bike path, major park, or trail system in the area.  That can take a lot of the guess work out of an unknown location. I also look to see if there are any major districts on the map. For example, a district I always enjoy in any city is the Arts District. There is one in Las Vegas just off the north end of the strip. There is always great graffiti art in those areas and usually some cool buildings to see. If you look up the city’s art district you will get the whole history of the area as well as the main points of interest.

I did that this time in Las Vegas because I can only run up and down the strip so many times.  For me, it’s important to try and see something new everyIMG_1456

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time I go to a city.  Here are a few of the pictures I took running around the “18b” or 18 Blocks Art District of Las Vegas. Just a sample of what you can see when you adventure outside in a new location.