Last Monday – about a week out and checking the forecast for the coming weekend – conditions for the coming Saturday suggested rain. And in heading to Michigan, three adjectives struck hard: rainy, cold, and miserable. To be more specific Ypsilanti, MI was the destination, and I couldn't even pronounce the name: 'Jip.si.lan.te'? So my outlook for this NIRCA Championship was a little bleak.

The National Intercollegiate Running Club Association (NIRCA) provides an outlet for collegiate level club teams to run competitively; without, say, the pressure and demands associated with traditional varsity athletics. In the past four years, the organization has seen exponential growth in member participation. With this past weekend being the XC Championships, it was the finale on the season for those who could make it. And make it out they did!

Driving up Friday, Drew and I arrived at the Eagle Crest Golf Course just as the sun disappeared on the horizon. I had no idea what the course looked like but we at least had our trailer in position, prepared for the following morning’s early start. But before we could rest, we had to meet with the NIRCA executive council downtown Ann Arbor for dinner.

Talking with Events Coordinator Stephanie Bartley, we plugged in the name of the restaurant, Grizzly Pete's. Being that we’re driving a four ton dually, finding a parking spot on a Friday night in the heart of U of M’s campus was not happening. We had a bit of a walk ahead of us.

After arriving on foot at what the GPS said was our destination, we came up to a large sign – Pinball Pete's. This wasn’t the place. Digging a little further in our search menu, we realized what we were really after was Grizzly Peak. We had another mile to walk.

Finally arriving, we were welcomed by a table of young 20-somethings. I felt right at home. Apologetic for our tardiness we quickly got into the menu. The non-meat eater that I am I was right to the soups, hoping for something to warm me up. Asking the waitress for the soup de jour, I was met with a flat-out and immediate- "You don't want it... Cream of Carrot. Tastes like thick, warm milk…" And with a gesture, as if tipping a glass to her mouth, she continued, "You like drinking milk?"

With some hesitation, I take in a sample. Everyone awaiting my reaction, "MMM… this is actually good!" So I finished off a whole bowl, alongside a delightful goat cheese, apple and spinach salad. And after reviewing the next day's schedule we left, bellies full and seemingly ready for bed. For Drew and I though, sleep would have to wait.

Meeting up with new acquaintances from our MAC Championship trip, we headed back into Ypsilanti (Ip.'si.lan.te') where we'd be kindly put up. The Eastern Michigan crew we had met just a few weeks before were waiting for our arrival, excited to show us the sights of their town. Although exhausted it felt important to take advantae of the limited time we had, and their gracious hospitality. Stopping by several local establishments and noteworthy landmarks – while meeting other EMU alumni and friends – the night turned out great. But with the alarm sounding at 6:30am, it was no easy wake up.

Pulling back into the parking lot, we quickly began setup outside the club house where teams of participants checked-in. Promoting our new gear, membership, and the upcoming Club Championships meet (to be held in Lexington, KY December 12th) I was excited to see all the runners filtering in. Teams from all over the country – Oregon, Wisconsin, Texas, Duke, Missouri, Clemson, Ball State, Penn State and more – all made the voyage to this low-east corner of the "Mitten." With the unique participatory nature of NIRCA, essentially all club members who want can run. With over 700 male runners, the men's 8k had to be broken into an A and B race. The women ran first, however, in a filled capacity 6k.

But starting off the morning was the inaugural open/alumni 5k. After encouragement from the council, Drew agreed to jump in the race. Joining him, too, was former EMU standout, Joshua Perrin. Carrying his good luck charm, Perrin took the open race crown, crossing the line with 'Snakeskin' tightly in hand. Not far off was Drew, finishing with a grin on his face. Wishing I could have joined them, I was warmed into good spirit as Josh recapped the finish: "Snakeskin was the real winner. I held him out, so he crossed the line first!" I don't know how they did it on no rest.

As the sun came out high in the sky, I could look down on the much of the course. Sitting next to Ford Lake, Eagle Crest provided a beautiful setting, especially in the unseasonably warm weather (so much for rain and cold). The races went into early afternoon, but as the men’s races finished up the tailgate scene really got underway. With our full display – alongside the Saucony sprint van and their big grill – plenty of free burgers, hot dogs and water were consumed while teams gathered together; relaxing and socializing, it appeared to be the perfect day – and perfect way – to finish out a season of cross country.

Although the somewhat grim outlook at the beginning of the week had me doubtful, the event and weekend turned out far better than imagined. The food, the people, weather and location – Ypsilanti/Ann Arbor, our EMU friends, and all involved in the race – made for a successful 2009 NIRCA XC Championships. This coming weekend in Lexington, KY, where we head next for the regions JO XC Championships and Club Champs preview meet, hopefully proves equal!

As runners we know there are many great benefits to being a runner. Running keeps us fit; running keeps us active; running allows us – more often than not – to eat that extra slice of pie or other sweet confection without pause. The list may go on and on. And let's be honest, along these same lines we as runners can be a little egocentric and conceded in our pursuits – as in reality our focus generally falls only on ourselves and our personal performance(s). OK, at this moment you may find yourself upset with me for calling runners… well, selfish. But don't be, as it's really not meant to be a put-down, the nature of the sport demands, for the most part, a certain level of self-centeredness. However, it does provide many opportunities to give back. At our latest event this weekend the altruistic and giving nature of runners and the sport really came to light.

Sunday, Drew and I were about two hours southeast of Indianapolis for the Epilepsy Foundation Mason Mini Marathon, in Mason, Ohio. As the name suggests, the race honors and benefits the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Cincinnati. Epilepsy for those who may or may not be familiar is a chronic neurological disorder that causes those inflicted to have – in most cases – unexpected seizures. So, it was an honor for us to be a part of an event that goes to support a foundation that seeks aid and research for such a cause. Seeing runners and walkers coming together towards this single pursuit gave greater meaning to what more a race can be, mean and offer.

And with the weather in an unseasonably warm state, the morning couldn’t have been any better for those involved. With our setup inside the Mason High School, popping up our tent and table in the commons area, I couldn't wait however to get outside to take photos of the finish. Watching the runners come in, many with furrowed brows and clenched teeth giving it everything they had while others passed through with big smiles, it was a great feeling being there in support. And after moving back inside for the awards ceremony, I was again reminded of what the race was really about.

As emcee, race coordinator and foundation assistant director, Mark Findley, broke down age group awards, he came to a particular participant that brought the crowd to real ovation. Although I didn’t catch his last name, Richard made his way to the stage to receive his medal like those before him; however, unlike the rest, it was with much greater effort.

Taking off at 7am, Richard embarked on the 15k distance as he does most weekends throughout the year. He does it, however, at a physical disadvantage; in a body that limps and forces him into a slower pace. Although I didn’t get to spend much time with him, he revealed that after coming out of a coma he was left unable to walk, unable to speak, unable hear and see. But fighting his way back, he is up and moving – talking and fully embracing the world around him.

Coming up to our tent at the conclusion of the mornings events, besides telling us a little of his story, he was particularly interested in finding a trainer to help keep him moving forward in his efforts to stay active. Not being from the area, we were unfortunately not able to provide specific direction for him locally, but we were nevertheless glad he stopped by. Seeing him complete such a distance – hearing how he participates at races and events like this almost every weekend – was quite moving. His determination I’ll soon not forget, continuing to evoke greater meaning to why it is we run; helping to make my own running about more than personal well-being, or that extra bowl of ice cream. And too, providing a deeper significance to how this seemingly simple, often taken-for-granted, act of movement combined in organized numbers can provide so much for those in need, and for those who maybe wish to but are unable to run.

So please, enjoy what is left of the unseasonably warm weather (if that holds true for you), and let stories and races like this one give you reason to run with selfless, deep conviction like never before! And I encourage you to make your next event – your next race – one that supports a like cause, so that we may all keep moving together.

I also want to thank race director Steve Prescott and his SP Running crew for their help in getting the course together, and in getting our rig situated on race morning.

See you down the road!

As colleges across the country enter the conference championship weekend, we head down to Athens, OH to attend the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship . Welcoming each team to the course is the bright sun and nearly 80 degree temperatures, as well as the magnificent backdrop of the Appalachian foothills; intensified ever more by the endless showering of leafs in shades of burnt orange and red. The welcoming appearance proves to be only a disguise for the tense mood that is felt out on the course.

Walking around during team shakeouts brought back the feelings of mounting nerves as I thought back to my own conference meet experiences. For many, this is the culmination of the year, a place where the season is judged with a final stamp of success or failure. I notice the same nervous glances as opposing teams jog past each other; each team sizing up the competition and looking for weakness in their opponents. Who has raced too much and is now hurting? Who has been hiding an athlete waiting for the right race to put them back in the rotation? As much as each runner questions others, the most prominent concerns are usually about themselves and if they will be ready to put it all on the line tomorrow.

The night only gets tenser as teams return back to campus to attend the dinner put on by the MAC and host school. What probably should be a relatively relaxed dinner always ends up being an awkward event. With this being one of the only times the teams see each other outside of running events, the evening is filled with sideways glances and - for the more bold - judgmental stares. On the men's side, the unannounced hair competition continues again this year. In an attempt to exude their manliness, grizzled beards and thick mustaches once again show up on those able to grow them. In a new twist the favorites, Kent State , sport team-wide mohawks with 80's-esque steps (some may refer to them as cat scratches) shaved in the back. The ladies are all well dressed, I have to guess an equally - if not more fierce - competition is going on there as well. As contestants walk past other teams to get their dinner, whispers at team's tables are barely audible outside of the group of intended recipients. The night concludes with the realization that the race is only about 12 hours away.

The crew arriving in the early hours of the morning is dismayed to see that their fears have been realized, threatening weather predictions have come true. A huge storm sweeping across the mid-west soaked the course, and is continuing to dump rain. The 80 degree warmth is cut in half as sunshine is replaced with blustery clouds. Teams quickly filing into the indoor tennis facility also know what preparations needed to be made- bring out the 1/2 inchers!

The shivering, already mud covered racers lining up at the start reminds on-lookers that this is going to be a battle against the elements as well as the other racers. But cross country is no place to place to feel sorry for yourself. The race begins and before long the conditions and pace is quickly knocking contenders off the list. Through 3k the team race is still tight, Kent State and Central Michigan's front runners are ahead, but Eastern Michigan's 3, 4, and 5 runners are all doing well in the top 25. Who is going to break?

Through 5k the lead pack is down to two, as Aiman Scullion (Kent) and Riak Mabil (CMU) battle it out. Mabil surges ahead hoping to break Scullion. As I take my spot at the finish the crowd gathers around talking back and forth about who might be leading; although an open, spectator friendly course, coming into the final straight is blind to those standing at the finish. Finally the leader breaks over the hill, coming into the straight Scullion shows off his 30 meter lead, one graced with a winning grin and hands raised as he comes through in 25:32.7. As he dashes for home it becomes apparent the team race isn't nearly as close as it had been early on. Kent State's top five roll in quickly after – with four in the top ten – as they break Eastern Michigan's distance dominance over the past decade. These mark two significant firsts for Kent: the first men’s individual crown and first team title. Capping it off, Coach Croghan earned MAC Coach of the Year honors summing up a great regular season, all around.

The women's race rounded out the morning. With the men leaving their mark on an already sloppy course, the ladies had an even more vulnerable time maneuvering around the twists, turns and narrow fairway paths. At any rate, they went after it with no less vigor than one would expect. Going out hard was the young lady from Eastern Michigan, Courtney Calka , but as she began to slow, it was easy to she wouldn't hold her commanding lead.

And sure enough, two freshman in Ari Fisher of Toledo and Amanda Mirochna of Miami, took over the one-two spots for the remainder of the race. Splashing their way through the 6k course, it was the waferish Toledo rocket that held on, opening her gap on the rest of the field and finishing in a time of 22:18.8 taking home her own MAC title. Standing next to what I assume were her parents – as they cheered and cried in excitement as she made her final strides through the tape – they relished in this significant moment for their daughter.

However, despite having another Toledo runner inside the top ten , it was a pack of four Miami ladies taking the 11-14 spots that sealed the deal, cruising in behind second place Mirochna and fifth place Laura Neufarth ; giving the Oxford women a commanding first place team performance, and seeing first year Coach Kelley Phillips to Coach of the Year honors as well.

When the leaves start turning and the air seems to be a little be crisper, it can only mean one thing. Fall is most definitely upon us and with that, it's time for some cross country racing! After leaving Bloomington we headed just 20 minutes east for one of Indiana's Semi-State meets. I haven't been to a high school cross country meet in a while, but everything seemed to go per usual.

Teammates costumed in patchwork, team colored suits- check.

Shirtless, boombox wielding fans blasting "The Final Countdown"- check.

Shot put thrower wearing a purple leotard and polka dot shorts- check.

A storm trooper? I guess we can add that to the list too- check.

As the racers took off their warm-ups you could see they were shaking. Whether it was because the temperature was only in the 40's or that the adrenaline was starting flow, one cannot be too sure. The excitement was palpable as the mud soaked runners trudged through the messy conditions, fighting battles for rights to a top 15 spot. The many fans lining the course were fighting their own battles, trying to make it through the muck to grab their spot and scream encouragement to their son, daughter or teammate. Today wasn't a day to complain about getting dirty though; this is cross country after all. And now is the time to toughen up, the state final is only a week away.

Owner Ben Bartley, along with his wife Stephanie, mom Mickey and various other family members – and some locally based Indiana Elite stars, the likes of Jordan Fife and Derek Scott – come together to operate "the source for Indiana's leading running and walking community," the Indiana Running Company. INRunCo for short, the store came into physical existence just over three years ago under Ben's vision and sincere passion. A long time runner and Indiana alumnus, bringing a running hub to the area seemed to make perfect sense.

Sitting at the heart of the Indiana University campus, foot traffic in and around the store is not hard to come by. With beautiful, rolling, trail laden surroundings, there is no shortage of running routes to choose from as well. With the schools storied athletics background – former home to American distance great Bob Kennedy most directly– and all things combined, Bloomington is a bit of a running haven, one fueled by the enthusiasm of the rich sport culture, and so again, just the right spot for a specialty running store.

On top of a diverse range of apparel there is more to take away than just quality merchandise, however. With twice weekly group runs (Monday and Thursday, 6pm), it is a great place to meet up and take advantage of running and training with others; open to all ability levels, anyone is more than welcome. With a three to six mile ‘campus loop’ as a standby (1-2 mile extensions quite common), the distances lend themselves to any level runner. Whether looking for a hard workout, or simply to get in an easy day, anyone should feel comfortable joining in.

Ben offers great guidance and advice as well. Coming in Thursday for our initial visit, Drew and I joined in on the group fun. Speaking with one runner in particular, one who had just recently gotten into the sport, and who since has run two marathons under the watch of 'Coach' Ben (just recently running 3:40 in the Columbus Marathon), it is incredible to think how far he has come in just over a year. I was impressed to see how close nit and comfortable the group was too. Encompassing a wide range of ability levels, it was interesting to see the group dynamic; seeing how everyone came together at such different ability levels and encouraging one another in their efforts and recent performances.

Joining the group afterward, we all gathered at one of the local watering holes just around the corner (being a college campus there is no shortage of fine drinking and eating establishments to choose from). Taking a seat at a booth inside the CrazyHorse – a post-run tradition for many – it was nice to sit down, chat and rehydrate with Ben and Stephanie. Although not needing any more convincing, it became ever more apparent how devoted and passionate they are, making it no surprise the store, the group and all that encompasses INRunCo is so successful.

Finishing up our meals and drinks, the two entrepreneurs still had more travel and work ahead of them. As co-directors of NIRCA, the National Intercollegiate Running Club Association, they were off to Madison, WI the next morning for the weekend’s regional meet. It goes without saying, the two stay quite busy.

Wishing them the best of luck, and all the appreciation, it was great to get a glimpse inside one of Indiana's leading specialty running stores. And too, the perfect opportunity to explore and experience for the first time all that is the beautiful Bloomington area, by running the town. On the same page, we will be heading to Ann Arbor in a few weeks to work the NIRCA Championships November 14th.

Next on the travel schedule, however, is Athens, OH for the MAC Cross Country Championships this Halloween Saturday, races kicking off at 11am. See you down the road!