Brisbane Run Squad

Time Trial Wrap Up & Whats Coming in 2012

2012-01-27T22:43:00.001-08:00

Time Trial

Well we were lucky enough to have the rain stay away just long enough for 29 BRSers to complete the 5km time trial. It is always a great start to the year, having a benchmark in January and then a time trial every 3 months, gives you a really good indication throughout the year of where you have improved or where you need to put in more work.

Matt and I were very proud and pleased with the results from Wednesday night. With many of you still recovering from the silly season, holidays, and back to work blues the times were great. For some of you, this was your first Timetrial with fantastic results!

I have updated them so they will appear on the website in a few days. A few special mentions:

Steve G and Darrell, both taking 15-30 seconds off their PB.
1 minute improvements to Sally S and Claire L
2 minute magics to Michelle Wood and Emma P
and a big congratulations to Bec W who took 3mins off her last PB.

Well done!

Whats Coming in 2012

Planning your events for 2012??

Looking at managing your budget??

Planning your social calendar??

Look no further.........

We have compiled a BRS Events and Social Calendar to help you plan for the year ahead.

You will notice I have listed all the key events in Southeast QLD, Sydney, Melbourne and noted which will be a BRS participation event.

I have also noted some key BRS Social dates and introduced the TSD events - Try Something Different!! examples include BRS Kayaking, Mt Mee team off-road event and the Santa Charity run. We will add to this during the year.

We are waiting on a few dates for key events, but in the mean time, why not print it out, pop it on the fridge and add dates as they become available.!

Click here or cut and paste in your URL for the BRS 2012 calendar!

https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BwuzrECVBvr8YzI5MmUyNzgtYWFhNi00NjZiLWI2NTktYjk3ZDdlZmU5ODZi

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Saturday Session tomorrow

2012-01-27T01:11:00.000-08:00

Saturday session ( cross your fingers the rain eases!!)

Where: New Farm Park Rotunda

Time: 6:30am-8am

What: long run + Jan Powers Farmers Markets @ Powerhouse for coffee and a treat

Cost: $2

FYI - if it is absolutely bucketing down- I will not be there, but feel free to still run being careful of the surfaces.

New Year & Wednesday Evening

2012-01-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

New Year 2012

It has been fabulous to see so many of you back in the new year. You are looking refreshed...ready for the next challenge!

I hope your running kick start continues well into 2012. Remember to help you stay focused....a few weeks ago, I asked what your goal was for 2012??

to make new friends
to join more Saturday sessions to get in long runs (& chats over breaky)
to run a faster 10km
to complete a 1/2 marathon event
to complete a marathon
to improve your running technique
to enjoy hill running!
to improve your time trial time!
to attend more BRS social events
to set a great fitness example for friends and family
to leave work on time and make more sessions!

After a crazy 2011 of an adventure Marathon, a 100km event, an international running festival, a full-on B2B lead up, and a pregnancy...you may wonder what is my running goal is for 2012? I am narrowing my focus from the long 21km+ events. After a year of distance running, I miss the feel of a hard, fast, intense 10km event!! In a 10km there is little room for error but plenty of opportunity to improve: strength, agility, and speed! With Junior entering the world soon, I suspect my luxury of 2-3hr runs will be short-lived...So why not move my goals to suit my new lifestyle!

Bring on 2012!!!!

Don't forget to write down your goal....stick it on the fridge or somewhere as a regular reminder to keep you on track!

Wednesday: Time Trial & Dinner

With a new year year, we need to understand where we are currently to know if we are improving....

So come along Wednesday for your 5km Time Trial.

For those of you who have never done one, it is a good opportunity to see how you are progressing and give you a benchmark!

Many of you have been keen for a timetrial for a while, to test our your speed.

To celebrate everybody's effort in the timetrial and Aussie Day on Thursdays, lets head to the Ship Inn for dinner.

When: Wednesday 25th January

Where: Ship Inn, Southbank

What: dinner and drinks

Time: 7pm after training.

See you there

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Saturday 21st run

2012-01-19T03:48:00.000-08:00

Where: Story Bridge Hotel

When: Saturday 21st January, 6:30am

What: Long run, (two options to be decided on the morning)

What else: Breakfast at Story Bridge hotel afterwards.

See ya there

happy running

Renae and Matt

Saturday Run 14th Jan & Twilight reminder

2012-01-12T02:24:00.000-08:00

Saturday Run

Where: Story Bridge Hotel (in the carpark)

When: 6:30am

What: 1:15 - 1:30hrs long run

Cost: $2

Breaky: afterwards at the Story Bridge Hotel

Twilight Event Registration
One of the big events every year for BRS is the Twilight Run at UQ. It creeps up quick, so here are details to enter.

What: 1/2 Marathon, 10km, 3km, 1km Kids Challenge
When: Sunday 18th March 2012
Time: events start at 4pm onwards
Where: University of QLD, St Lucia
Cost: Get in now for early bird.

TEAM ENTRY: We always compete in the Team Challenge - biggest team! We won in 2010, so lets try again!!!
Enter: http://www.streamlinedevents.com.au/teams.asp?cID=92&c=20100
Search for Existing Team: Brisbane Run Squad.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Welcome to 2012 & Saturday Session

2012-01-05T02:12:00.000-08:00

2012...the year to enjoy running like you never have before!!!
and.......of course BRS is the place to do it!!!

Over the next month, I am keen to find out your BRS goals for 2012.
they could be something like:

to make new friends

to join more Saturday sessions to get in long runs (& chats over breaky)

to run a faster 10km

to complete a 1/2 marathon event

to complete a marathon

to improve your running technique

to enjoy hill running!

to improve your time trial time!

to attend more BRS social events

to set a great fitness example for friends and family

to leave work on time and make more sessions!

No matter what your BRS goal.....Matt and I are here to help you achieve it.

Saturday Session

Our 1st 2012 Saturday run 7/1...be there
Where: New Farm Park Rotunda
When: 6:30am
What: Long run (1.15-1.5hrs)
Cost: $2 to cover refreshments

FYI Markets aren't on, so shouldn't have any dramas parking.

See you soon

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Thanks BRS for 2011..Bring on 2012!

2012-01-01T02:08:00.001-08:00

2011 Wrap Up

2011 was a year of firsts for BRS and much more.

First BRS Camp at the Sports Super Centre!
First International Event - and a very successful trip to the Cook Islands!!
First over 50 BRS entries for an event - 55 BRSers competed in the Gold Coast Events
First Marathons, 1/2 Marathons, 10km, and Triathlons for some BRSers
First overseas running & triathlon events for some members
Introduction of Saturday morning sessions & breaky
introduction of quarterly BRS Birthday dinners
a cracker of a Bridge to Brisbane campaign and 12 BRSers volunteering as pace runners!!
and the list continues....

So much achieved in 12months for a small social running club - can't wait to see where 2012 takes us!

New Goals

New Adventures

New Challenges....

and hopefully new friendships and plenty of fun.

Thanks BRSers for a top year!!

for a powerpoint wrap up of 2011......download our slideshow here (copy & paste link into URL).

https://docs.google.com/open?id=0BwuzrECVBvr8ZWE2ZTVmOGEtODI3Zi00YmQzLWE5MDQtMWY5N2UzMzcwYmE1

Don't forget we are back Monday 2nd January 2012....see you there!!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

2011 Last Chance training Saturday session

2011-12-29T14:46:00.001-08:00

Last Chance Training for 2011
Be there Saturday 31st Dec 2011
Where: Toowong Bike Path, opposite the Regatta Hotel
When: 6:30am
What: Long run, followed by breakfast at the Regatta Hotel
Cost: $2 to cover refreshments

If we don't see you tomorrow.....have a wonderful New Years Eve and a cracking start to 2012!!

Stay tuned for our 2011 wrap up blog.....coming tomorrow!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Merry Christmas, Twilight Event, BRS Closure

2011-12-19T21:57:00.000-08:00

BRSers,
A BIG Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
Thank-you for a fabulous 2011 and we can’t wait to share 2012 with you.

Twilight Event Registration
One of the big events every year for BRS is the Twilight Run at UQ. It creeps up quick, so here are details to enter.

What: 1/2 Marathon, 10km, 3km, 1km Kids Challenge
When: Sunday 18th March 2012
Time: events start at 4pm onwards
Where: University of QLD, St Lucia
Cost: Get in my 31 Dec for Super Early Bird prices......or 31st January for Early Bird!!

TEAM ENTRY: We always compete in the Team Challenge - biggest team! We won in 2010, so lets try again!!!
Enter: http://www.streamlinedevents.com.au/teams.asp?cID=92&c=20100
Search for Existing Team: Brisbane Run Squad.

Christmas Closure
Last BRS training session before Christmas is Wednesday 21st December. Don't forget to wear Red and Green!!
We will be back training on Wednesday 28th December.

So if you don't see you Wednesday........have a great Christmas.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Morning Run

2011-12-14T22:02:00.000-08:00

Saturday Run 17th Dec

Unfortunately the Sherwood Run and BBQ is going to have to be changed to a new location.

Where: Toowong Bike Path, Opposite the Regatta Hotel
When: Saturday 17th Dec, 6:30am
What: Long run, followed by breakfast at the Regatta Hotel.

Sorry to all those looking forward to the Sherwood run, there just wasn't enough interest.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Xmas Party Wrap Up, Sat Session & BRS over xmas

2011-12-06T14:48:00.000-08:00

Big Thank-you to every body who joined us for the BRS Xmas and 2nd Birthday party on Saturday night! What a night!

Everybody got into the spirit of things, as you can see from the photos, the colours of the Rubik's cube certainly made things bright and fun!

A Wrap of our Award and Tribute Winners:
Most Improved = Michele White received a $50 Mizuno Voucher & an awesome BRS Mug
Most Dedicated & Consistent = Steve G received a $50 Mizuno Voucher & an awesome BRS Mug
Runners' Runner = Matt Cooper received a $50 Mizuno Voucher & an awesome BRS Mug

Photo Competition Winners
Mizuno Winner = Michelle W received a Mizuno pack (shoes, hat, shorts, shirt)
BRS Winner = Darrell G received a Mizuno pack (shoes, hat, shorts, shirt)
Mizuno Runner's Up = Ben Y $50 Mizuno Voucher
BRS Runner's Up = Michael K $50 Mizuno Voucher

Best Dressed Prizes
Individual Best Dressed = Steve G - 1 month free BRS Sessions
Best Dressed Team = Kathy, Claire, Michelle W, Peta, Trav, Lisa P = $50 Mizuno Voucher each

Raffle Winners
Innocent Bystander Muscato = Matt Cooper
Spring Vale Pinot = Mel Shepherd
Madison Fitness Pack = Kathy Naylor (punching bag, mitts, skipping rope)

BIG THANKS TO MIZUNO, MADISON FITNESS EQUIPMENT, ACTIVE STRIDE & SPRING VALE WINES for their kind donations.

Saturday Session
For our second last Saturday Session of 2011: lets head to New Farm Park
Markets are on and I have my eye on a plum pudding.

When: 6:30am - 8am
Where: Meet New Farm Rotunda
What: 13-15km run or 30min out and back
Cost: $2 for refreshments

BRS Over Xmas
BRS sessions will be on until Wednesday 21st, then back Wednesday 28th.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Session & 2 sleeps to Xmas Party

2011-12-01T02:44:00.001-08:00

Saturday Session

This week is a long session as always, with a twist!! An urban orienteering adventure.

When: 6:30am
Where: Ship Inn, Southbank
What: Urban Orienteering - 1.5hours

Urban Orienteering overview:
teams of 2-3 depending on numbers
you are provided with a number of check-points and 1.5hours to get to as many as possible.
You get points for checkpoints and hefty penalties if you arrive back late.....so what is your strategy.

Come along for a bit of fun and of course a good run!

Saturday night - Our Xmas & Birthday party

It is TIME!! Only 2 sleeps to go!

Thanks to our 45 BRSers who are coming along, can't wait to see you there.

When: Saturday 3rd December, 2011
Time: 6pm til late
Where: The Heritage Room, The Storey Bridge Hotel

Theme: A rubik's cube party
come dressed in one of the colours on the traditional cube, WHITE, RED, BLUE, ORANGE, GREEN, or YELLOWI

If you are keen to play....team your outfit colour with cheap accessories of other colours - e.g. sweat/head bands, scarves, badges, bangles, hats
Game:
1. By the end of the night, you have to be full head to toe in 1 colour by swapping accessories with each other.
2. By the end of the night, form a team of six, 1 of each colour head to toe (remember no prior organising of teams is allowed)

Prizes (great prizes provided by our sponsors)
1. Best dressed head to toe colour
2. Best dressed Team at the end!

Don't forget we will also be announcing:
1. Winners of the BRS/Mizuno Photo competition
2. Runner's Runner for 2011

raffles and much more!!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Saturday Session & 2011 Lots to come!

2011-11-22T16:24:00.000-08:00

Saturday Session

For those interested in a long run this Saturday, details are below:
When: Saturday 26 Nov 6:30am
Where: meet outside Ship Inn
What: try the West End Loop (follow path to Westend, Riverside drive, up Dornoch Terrace and Glastone Road back to Southbank....or out and back)
Duration: 1-1.5 hours.

Plenty of coffee/breaky spots to choose from afterwards.
PARKING: Don't forget EARLY MORNING BREAKFAST SPECIAL ONLY $2
Monday to Sunday. Enter after 5am and exit before 9am at Southbank Carpark

2011 lots to come!
What a YEAR 2011 has been and there is more to come!!

Saturday 3rd December - BRS End of Year Party
Thanks to all those who RSVPd, should be a cracker.....
Prizes, Raffles, Trophies, Competitions, and announcing the winner of our Photo competition!
Bring it on!

Saturday 11 December - Kurrawa to Duranbah 50 / 30 km
Some of our BRSers are braving the 30km run as a bit of motivation leading up to Xmas!
http://www.aura.asn.au/Kurrawa.html
Good luck!

Saturday 17th December - Sherwood Forest Run & Xmas Breaky Cook UP!
3 runs for anybody of any age/ability!!
Sherwood Forest Run 2,4,6km + BRS Xmas Breaky cook up
When: 7am
Where: Carpark, in Jolimont St, Sherwood
What: A fun run to get into the spirit of the festive season + BRS Xmas BBQ Info: http://www.rivercityrunners.net/sherwood.html
Cost: Enter on arrival $2 donation to run + $5 per person for a BRS BBQ!!!
RSVP BBQ: 10th December info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au Bring a friend, partner and kids, make a morning of it!

A perfect time to keep up our running as the jolly season kicks in!! Staying fit, happy and healthy with some indulgences here and there!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Run 19 Nov 2011

2011-11-16T03:21:00.000-08:00

Where: Suttons Beach, Redcliffe
When: Saturday 19th November
Time: 6:30am
What: Long Run followed by some water running.
What to Bring: Running gear, swimming gear, drink bottle,
Cost: $2 (to cover lollies and drink).

There are some nice cafe's up there at Redcliffe, so be ready for a lovely breakfast afterwards!

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Thursday Night, Saturday Morn & Sat Morn

2011-11-09T03:30:00.000-08:00

Cool Night Classic Tomorrow Night
Tomorrow night we have the PWC 5km Cool Night Classic.
Kick off is 5:15pm
Matt and I will be there by 4:45pm

We can watch bags/bikes etc for those BRSers running.
Meet us at the QUT side of the Goodwill Games Bridge.

Saturday Session

Many of you are competing in the Mt Cootha Moustash Run on Sunday including Matt & I.
Those of you not participating, why not get together for a run and market adventure!

Location: New Farm Park Rotunda
Time: 6:30am
What: why not try the Storey Bridge 13km loop backwards!!
Cost: Free

Markets are on for post run treats and coffee.

Mousdash This Sunday
Don't forget to get your pack on Saturday from the Paddington Hotel 1-4pm

Kick off 6:30am!
Info sheet http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/images/stories/Events/MtCoothaFunRun/2011/2011_mousdash_competitor_briefing.pdf

See you there, ready to hit the mountain!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Congrats our Triathletes & Saturday Sessions

2011-11-06T01:33:00.000-07:00

Congrats Noosa Triathletes

Well last weekend was the famous Noosa Triathon. For two of our BRSers what a better place to complete your first Olympic Distance Triathlon.

2 of our favourites, Claire and Matt S were all nerves at dinner on Friday night but come Sunday, they turned those nerves into adrenalin, speed, and energy!!

Congratulations to both who finished in style in hot, humid conditions. Claire beat her predicted time by 9 mins. Matt S smashed it, exceeded his own expectations, maybe he has found a new sporting career!!

Well done to the other BRSers who swam, cycled or ran!!

Saturday Sessions

Saturday sessions are important for a well rounded running program, as it allows you to get your long runs in, 10km plus.

Also it is a good opportunity for a social coffee/breaky outing!!

We now have these sessions every Saturday, however with me having other sporting/coaching commitments, and Matt's shift work it makes it difficult for us to make it every week, so we are changing the structure a little.

New Saturday Session protocols

Where:
the BRS calendar, blog, and facebook will be updated every Wednesday evening with location and time. Sorry for the delay last week. We will still try to mix it up with locations.

Cost changes:

If Matt and I are available, we will come along to join you followed with refreshments as usual. To cover these, session cost = $2

If we are unavailable, therefore, no refreshments, the session is free!

Session Type:
Long runs or Trial runs

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday session

2011-11-04T02:21:00.001-07:00

Hey team

As mentioned on Wednesday night...

Saturday session
Where: Park Road Milton - on corner at InTraining
Time: 6:30am
What: 10-15km runs

Followed as always by Park Road coffee!!

I am unable to make it as I am presenting at a Triathlon Clinic - apologies

Happy running
Renae

Saturday Run 29th October

2011-10-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday Run: New Farm Park 6:30am
Due to the Noosa Triathlon being held this Sunday 30th, Renae and I and other BRSers will be in Noosa living it up on over the weekend.

Many of you mentioned you would still like meet and run with your preferred location being NewFarm....so

Where: New Farm Park Rotunda
When: 6:30am
What: Long Run

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

P.S. Good luck to everyone competing in the triathlon!

Coming UP...Cool Night Classic & Mousdash!

2011-10-23T01:27:00.000-07:00

Two fabulous events in one week!!
See the best brisbane has to offer with a Thursday evening 5km run around Southbank and the Botanical Gardens, followed up on Sunday with a run up and around Mt Cootha!

2011 Cool Night Classic - Thursday 10 November
A great course and post event festivities and entertainment!

When: Thursday 10 November
Distance: 5km
Start time: 5.15pm
Course: Starting at the Riverstage entrants will travel through the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, over the Goodwill Bridge turning left onto Dock St and continuing along Lower River Tce. Runners will then turn at Count White Park to come back on the bikeway and over the Goodwill Bridge and back to the Riverstage. Each kilometre will be marked out the course with aid stations located at approximately 1km, 2.5km, 3.5km & 4.5km marks.

Enter: We don't have a team for this one as their are no discount involved, simply enter as an individual
http://www.au.pwc.com/events/natevents.nsf/vwHTMLHomePage/176DAA7EEA6CD7C6CA2578D4001172A0/$file/index.html#introduction

Cost: Register and pay by 4th November - Only $25 - then up to $35

Mousdash Mt Cootha 13th November
a challenging run for a great cause! The Nova 106.9 Mousdash is your chance to play an active part in the fight against men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men.

Date: 13th November
Distance: The 10.5km Mousdash Run or 5km to Summit and back
The Solo: put the blinkers on and conquer Mt Coot-tha as a solo competitor - prizes up for grabs in every age category
The Threesome: your team of three starts together, runs together and crosses the line together - you're only as fast as your slowest runner!
Start Time: 6:30am
Course: you'll have the chance to conquer an iconic Brisbane landmark - Mt Coot-tha

Enter:
http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/our-events/the-mousdash/enter-split-menu.html: - prizes for the biggest team, please put Brisbane Run Squad in Team Name on entry form.
Cost: $40

The Run for Ronald McDonald House is on Sunday 13th November.
A 10km Charity Run at Broadbeach. More Information
http://corporatechallenge.com.au/funruns.php?Run-for-Ronald-8

As the year comes to an end, 3 fantastic events to get involved in and keep you motivated.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Session

2011-10-20T16:00:00.001-07:00

This week, we will be leaving from our sponsors shop Active Stide at Southbank:

Date: 21 October, 2011
Time: 6:30am-8am
Where: Meet Active Stride Southbank - 184 Grey Street
What: loop course - options include 15, 12, 8, 6km.

Followed by Coffee at Poppy's Basket at Southbank - about 300m from Active Stride.
Great coffee and food!!
If you aren't coming for the run....join us for breakfast!

Parking:
You can park on Grey Street, however parking meters work 7am-7pm.

You can park in Dock Street - for free and walk over - 5-10min walk.

Southbank Parking as an Early Morning Breakfast Special
$2 Monday - Sunday
Enter after 5am and exit before 9am
See www.visitsouthbank.com.au/parking

I will try to ensure I get a park out the front, so that everybody can leave their gear in my car.

See you there!

Byron Bay Wrap UP & Xmas Party Details

2011-10-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

Byron Bay Lighthouse Run
Often quoted as the most scenic run in Australia, this event continues to deliver.
After a rainy, windy Saturday, the weather on Sunday morning was nothing but perfect!!

This was the 3rd year BRS has participated in this run. This year we had 5 veterans, and 8 newbies to the run. With a new course that included plenty more beach running, we were all keen to get out there and give it a go!

Everybody finished raving about how fun it was..yes beach running can be fun when you do it with others, have a fabulous view and sensational weather. The climb to the lighthouse is always challenging but, the view is worth the effort.

Our 10km finishes included: Matt C, Melissa F, Steve G, BRS Man, Natalie, Sally, Irene, Wendy, Michele W, Janet, Sean, Sue, Sam. Simone walked with friends to complete the 7km scenic walk.
congratulations to everybody in particular Matt C who came 3rd overall and 1st in his age group!!

Another successful Byron Bay expedition!!

Xmas & BRS Birthday Party - Saturday 3rd December

After releasing the date saver a month ago....we have final details for the event

What: A combo party to celebrate a) BRS turning 2 (offically 2 in September), b) Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!
When: Saturday 3rd December, 2011
Time: 6pm til late
Where: The Heritage Room, The Storey Bridge Hotel
Cost: $50 incl. venue hire, canapes, noodle box, & dessert - cash bar will be available

Theme: A rubik's cube party
come dressed in one of the colours on the traditional cube, WHITE, RED, BLUE, ORANGE, GREEN, or YELLOW
If you are keen to play....team your outfit colour with cheap accessories of other colours - e.g. sweat/head bands, scarves, badges, bangles, hats
Game:
1. By the end of the night, you have to be full head to toe in 1 colour by swapping accessories with each other.
2. By the end of the night, form a team of six, 1 of each colour head to toe (remember no prior organising of teams is allowed)

Prizes (great prizes provided by our sponsors)
1. Best dressed head to toe colour
2. Best dressed Team at the end!

RSVP: by Friday 25th November with numbers and any dietary preferences

Note: Under 18s are allowed in the venue until 10pm

a wonderful time to celebrate the achievements of all BRSers over the last 12months!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Cook Islands Wrap up & MORE!!

2011-10-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

Cook Islands Wrap up

After many months of planning, organisation and plenty of training, 14 BRSers made their way to the Cook Islands for the 34th Rarotonga Running Festival. 4 running events in 6 days.

Our time on the Cook Islands was never dull and full of adventure:

1 x food poisoning

1 x scooter crash

1 x fish bite

1 x heat stroke

2 x angle sprains

?? x hangovers!

Event 1 = Round Raro Road Race
Saturday started early for our 31km runners, 4:30am on the bus & a 5:30am kick off. with 32degree heat, we were grateful for the early start.
31km Contenders = Matt C, Melissa F, Renae, Natalie, Irene, Michael K, Darren H, Michele W
10km Contenders = Janet, Wendy C, Steve G, Shelley J, Barry, Simone

For the 31km runners, it meant an entire lap of the island, being cheered on by locals and tourists. The 10km runners started at the 21km mark, making their way through town to the finish line.

BRS had some outstanding results:
FIRST MALE = our Matt C, the first Australian ever to win the mens 31km! making front page of the Cook Islands Sunday paper!
FIRST FEMALE = our Renae J, first female, and 9th overall
THIRD FEMALE = our Melissa F put in a hard final 10km to sneak into 3rd by 2mins!

Steve G finished top 10 in the 10km, with only 4 hours sleep after arriving to Raro early that morning!

What an event!! Everyone finished making it through the hot, humid conditions to sprint across the line - to be greeted with a medal and fresh coconut juice! perfect recovery food!

Event 2 = Hash House Harriers
With the theme - 'the louder the better' BRSers went all out with their 80s attire....plenty of fluro, many a sweatband, high cut shorts and eye make-up that would make any drag queen jealous. A fun 4km event, through the streets, beach, people's yards, and finishing with a cracking BBQ and beers!

Event 3 = Round the Rock Relay
BRS entered 2 teams of 6 people, with Barry as our driver. We all ran 5km in the hot afternoon sun, trying desperately to beat the Kiwi team - our well known rivals! This was by far the most fun event. The roads were full of convoys of Utes, packed with school kids sprinting 1km barefoot or in socks before swapping with their mates. Cook Islanders of all ages were out and giving it a go! (oh and no we didn't beat the Kiwis, sorry!)

Event 4 = The Nutters Cross Island 8.9km
We soon find out why it is called the 'nutters' event. It was clearly not a run as we all scrambled up the mountain, grabbed onto ropes for support, jumped creek crossings, and navigating the myriad of tree roots! It was well worth the hike for the amazing view! Well done to all that completed it a true achievement!

BRS certainly made an impact in this international event on the tiny pacific island - even some requests for autographs!

Besides the running, there was heaps of snorkeling, cruising around the island, learning island dancing and drum playing, testing out restaurants & cafes, and plenty of laughs!

Our first international trip was a roaring success and I can't wait for the next one. A big THANKS for Michelle and Darren from http://www.live4therun.com/ for organising our travel and so much more!!! Everything went so smoothly and we could not have done it without you!

If you have any ideas, or suggestions for our next international event, let me know! Bring it on!!!

Our Next BRS Event: Byron Bay Lighthouse Run

When: Sunday 16th October 7am
Where: Surf Club Byron Bay
What: 10km run or 8km walk

13 BRSers have entered to tackle the 'most scenic run in Australia' the Byron Bay Lighthouse Run. This will be our 3rd time we have participated in this event, it is one of the most fun, challenging, and diverse runs on the calendar.

It is not too late to enter as an individual http://www.byronrun.com/ however, our BRS team entry has closed.

Saturday Session
Start: New Farm Park Rotunda
Time: 6:30am - 1-1.5hours
What: 13km river loop or an out and back

The Jan Power markets are on this weekend too, so plenty of options for a coffee/treat post run!

See you there

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday session, BRS closing period, BRS on Tour

2011-09-15T23:24:00.000-07:00

Get in one more run with your BRSers before our 9 day closure period!!

Be there tomorrow for a nice long run,
with 11, 13, 14, and 15km options,
how can you go wrong!!!

When: Saturday 17th September
Time: 6:30am
Where: Corner of Park Rd and Gordon St Milton (plenty of places for post run coffee)
What: Endurance run (11, 13, 14, 15km circuit options)

BRS Closed down - 19th - 27th September, 2011

Over the last 4 months of the core running season, we have seen some outstanding improvements, personal bests, great accomplishments, and some weary runners.

Its time for....TIME OUT

Make the most of the next few weeks, when formal BRS training is not on. Why not give your body a break, concentrate on doing your own cruisy runs, or catching up on sleep and DVDs!
You will come back brighter, ready to go for our next fun filled events!!

First session back - Wednesday 28th Sept.

BRS On Tour
Next Thursday 22nd Sept, 15 of your BRS friends leave for our first BRS on Tour event, the Cook Islands Running Festival. I know I can't wait and we wish them all the best.

See everybody back at BRS on Wednesday 28th September.

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Bridge to Brisbane: What do expect & your pace runners

2011-09-04T16:38:00.000-07:00

BRIDGE TO BRISBANE - THIS SUNDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 2011

What to expect on the day
Before the start:
Be sure to get there in plenty of time. With 50,000 runners expected to turn up navigating through the crowd can be challenging. Find your coloured start zone and keep an eye out for the pace runners. They will be the runners with the balloons floating above them. You can use these runners to track your progress if you are aiming for a specific time.
Start:
You are straight into the Bridge climb. 1.6 km up and down getting to a height of 645m! Don’t stress, pace yourself going up, save your strength and use the downhill side to make up some time (and get your breathe back). Don’t forget to take in the view!

2km: Now is the time to soak up the atmosphere. You have a flat run for the next 6km. Enjoy the music, the cheering crowd and the other runners surrounding you.

8km: Be prepared at this point. The hills are not over. Your then enter the Inner City Bypass, a 300m long climb. Although it is not very steep, it can be a bit of a shock to the unwary runner. Again pace yourself, you don’t want to burn out so close to the finish.

9km: Almost there! Now is the time to use what is left in the tank. It is easy to dig deep and find that extra spark of energy, it comes from the sheer exhilaration of finishing and the hundreds of cheering spectators lining the finishers shute inside the EKKA grounds.

Well done you made it! Be sure to get your finishers t-shirt, hang around and enjoy the rest of the festivities!

Your BRS Bridge to Brisbane Pace Runners
Look out for your familiar BRS faces this Sunday. They will help you keep pace & achieve your goals!!

Your 10km Runners:
40mins: Matt C (BRS) and Kit Rix (BTS) BLUE BALLOONS
45mins: Myself and Matt S (BRS) RED BALLOONS
50mins: Melissa F and Darren K (BRS) LIME BALLOONS
55mins: Ben Y and Shannon D (BRS) GREEN BALLOONS
60mins: Geevan E and Matty L (BRS) ORANGE BALLOONS
65mins: Natalie B and Jan G (BRS) YELLOW BALLOONS

Your 5km Runners:
20mins: Matt C and Ben G (BRS) PURPLE BALLOONS
25mins: Geoff (B2B) and Jacqui (BTS) YELLOW BALLOONS
30mins: Melissa F and Matty Lyne (BRS) ORANGE BALLOONS
35mins: Myself and Andrew M (BRS) WHITE BALLOONS

Remember, you have put the training in, so it is time to reap the rewards.
Enjoy yourselves!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Party Time- Save the Date

2011-08-28T22:36:00.000-07:00

BRSers......SAVE THE DATE
Saturday 3rd December 6pm til late

A combo party to celebrate
a) BRS turns 2! (offically 2 in September, so a belated celebration!)
b) Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Add it to the diary and stay tuned for more details!!!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

What's Up....Upcoming Events

2011-08-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Need to plan your next few months up to Christmans?
Need to budget entry fees and accommodation?
Print this out and pop it on your fridge so you don't miss a thing!!

Here are the upcoming events on the South East QLD Running Calendar.

September:

3rd September - Bridge to Brisbane Time Trial 5km
Time: 7:30am
Where: New Farm Park Rotunda
What: good chance to see how your running fitness is going.
Cost: Free

11th September Bridge to Brisbane 10,5km Fun Run
When: Sunday 11 September
Where: Starts Southside of Gateway, Finish Ekka Showgrounds
What: 10km or 5km Fun Run/walkHow: To join our BRS Team, go to. http://www.bridgetobrisbane.com.au/enter-online/
Enter Our Team Number = 24053*early bird - 5th August, get in quick places are limited this year

12th September Quarterly Birthday Bash Jul, Aug, Sept BRSer Birthdays
This year we are introducing a quarterly birthday bash for all BRSers with birthdays during the quarter.
For July, August, and September 14 BRSers will or have celebrated a birthday (some keeping it quieter than others!)
When: Monday 12th September
Time: 7pm (after a light recovery session from B2B)
Where: MADOs Turkish Restaurant Southbank
What: A quarterly birthday celebration
Who: any BRSer + of course our birthday people (you know who you are!)

Please RSVP info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au (need numbers for the cake!! and to book the restaurant) by Monday 5th September.

22nd - 28th September: BRS Cook Islands Trip- Round Rarotonga Road Race
When: 22-28th September 15 of us are embarking on a BRS adventure in the pacific!
How: Spots are still open - to join us email Michelle Henry michelle@fit4travel.com.au

OCTOBER
16th October: Byron Bay Lighthouse Festival 10km, 8km
When: Sunday 16th October
Where: Byron Bay starts and finishes near lighthouse
What: 10km Run, 8km Walk
How: Early bird entry closes on 16 September 2011 at 3pm
Join our Team and receive a further discount, go to: https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dHBUTnJYSmdHZW1wc1Y1bExhbUZDRWc6MQ

NOVEMBER

10th November Cool Night Classic 5km
When: Thursday 10 November 2011
Where: Riverstage, Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
Time: All participants to arrive at 5.00pm for a 5.15pm start
Course: 5km run or 3km walk
Enter: www.pwc.com.au/events/coolnightclassic-brisbane

13th Movember: Mousdash 10.5km
When: Sunday 13th Movember
Where: Start Mt Cootha Botanical Gardens
What: 10.5km up and over Mt Cootha, or 5km to Summit
Enter: http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/component/content/article/70-the-mt-coot-tha-fun-run-brisbane-fun-runs.html

DECEMBER
17 December Sherwood Trail Run 2,4,6km + BRS Xmas Breaky cook up (note change of date)
When: Saturday 17 December, 7am
Where: Carpark, in Jolimont St, Sherwood
What: A fun trail run to get into the spirit of the festive season + BRS Xmas BBQ
Info: http://www.rivercityrunners.net/sherwood.html
Cost: Enter on arrival $2 donation to run + $10 per person for a BRS BBQ!!!

RSVP BBQ: 10th December info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au

Bring a friend, partner and kids, make a morning of it!

I personally love the last 4 months of the year for running, all the big 'pressure' events are over and the fun community events start! There are plenty of goals for you from now to December, so sign up!!!

**Whats missing??? Yes the BRS 2nd Birthday bash..I haven't forgotten, but September and October are proving to be busy months. At this stage we will combine the Birthday & Xmas bash to early December. I will keep you posted!**

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Bris Marathon Wrap-up, Whats up

2011-08-09T21:13:00.001-07:00

THE BRS FACES OF THE BRISBANE MARATHON FESTIVAL 2011

a BIG CONGRATULATIONS to everybody who participated in the events during the Brisbane Marathon Festival last weekend.

1/2 Marathon
The morning started, cold and dark for our 1/2 marathon troopers, with Liss, I and Milo (the now adopted BRS mascot) cheering from the sidelines!

Our first BRSer across the line was the lightening fast Matt C, coming 10th overall with a cracking time of 1hr21mins!! Well done.

Michael K also did a great time, in a tougher, and hotter course, coming in only secs off his Gold Coast time.

Natalie B produced a smashing personal best, coming in under 2 hours!!

Jen G pipped at the 2hour post, coming in just over

Michele W had a good run, coming in a few minutes over 2hours, and a personal best!!

The fabulous 3, Greg, Carla, and Leah also had great races, finishing in style!

Jeff one of our B2B runners (who has promised to convert to BRS post B2B) raced well placing 9th overall.

10km & 2km

We had plenty of our 10km BRSer runners braving the hot conditions as they started the event at 9:30am.

Considering the course and conditions, everybody finished and gave it their all.
BRSers: Wendy C, Jill M, Janet, Irene, Michelle W, Geevan, Matt W, Peter C, Steve G, Cindy, Deanne, Sam, Karen, and Bec W. Ben G who recently joined BRS blazed into the finish in 38mins, coming 5th in his age group and top 20!!

Noah & Maddison W participated in the 2km!! Enjoying every minute of it!

I hope I didn't miss anybody and Congratulations again!!

Other Special Mentions

Jane H completed her first 1/2 marathon in Townsville over the weekend, well done!

Darrel G completed the New York Triathlon on Sunday in terrible conditions, rainy, 35degrees, humidity....but after all that he produced a PB!!!!

Long Saturday Sessions
Don't forget for the next 5 weeks up until and including 10th September, we have a long run on Saturday mornings.
Time: 6:30am
Where: New Farm Park Rotunda
What: 50mins BRS run + 50mins B2B run
Finish: 8:30am
See you there!!

Cook Islands Adventure
Our first BRS On Tour international event is only just around the corner.
14 BRSers have 6 weeks before we leave for the 31km Round Rarotonga Road Race & Festival.
This Week's Fact:
Rarotonga is the vibrant centre of the Cook Islands. Its circular shape is dominated by high mountain peaks, from which lush rain forcest cascade to a palm-fringed shore. It is all most completely encircled by a reef which harbours clear turquoise waters, and many white sandy beaches.
sounds pretty inviting to run around if you ask me!!!

Stay tuned for next week's blog listing all upcoming events
Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Session & Tips for Hill Sessions

2011-07-28T03:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday Sessions:
Don't forget for the next 6 weeks up until and including 10th September, we have a long run on Saturday mornings.

Time: 6:30am
Where: New Farm Park Rotunda
What: 50mins BRS run + 50mins B2B run
Finish: 8:30am

See you there!!

Hill Session Preparation & Recovery Tips

With the introduction of a hill session every week for the next 9 weeks as we prepare for B2B and Cook Islands, a few tips for preparing & recovering from Hill sessions

1. Strength Training all year round:
I highly recommend on-going and consistent strength training is added to your annual running routine. Weights, Pilates, Yoga, even cycling can help to keep your legs strong and powerful so when you hit the hill sets, your legs are well prepared.

2. Iliotibial band - keep on top of stretching and loosening.

The common ITB syndrome which is the superficial thickening of tissue on the outside of the thigh, extending from the outside of the pelvis, over the hip and knee, and inserting just below the knee. The band is crucial to stabilizing the knee during running so as you can imagine, if you don't have an ITB maintenance program you are bound to have issues.

In particular, hill running, down hill can increase the prevalence of ITB issues resulting in sore knees. Invest in a foam roller or 'spikey' ball to regularly loosen you TFL Tensor fasciae latae muscle and ITB. Of course regular massage will also help

3. Calf Stretching

Starting to get sore achilles from the hill work and sprints? It could be from tight calves, when your calves are excessively tight, this can put strain on the achilles and make it sore.
Try stretching your calves every day, and ladies, stay away from those stilettos.

Start to get on top of the above and you too soon will learn to LOVE hills!!
Bring them on

Happy running
Renae & Matt

LAUNCH: BRS Photo Competition & Sat Run

2011-07-19T22:47:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce our first ever BRS Photo Competition, proudly sponsored by Mizuno and Springvale Wines.

CRITERIA:
1. Photo must feature Mizuno Shoes, Mizuno apparel or BRS uniform
2. Photo can be quirky, amazing, adventurous, peaceful, arty,interesting, simply just a great shot
3. You consent to your photo being sent to Mizuno/BRS for potential marketing use
4. You must be a BRS member

JUDGES:
Mizuno sponsorship team

PRIZES:
1st Mizuno Pack Mizuno Shoes, Hat, T-shirt valued over $300
2nd BRS Pack2 x months free training BRS Mugvalued over $100
3rd Bottle Springvale wine - famous Tasmanian Chardonnay

Get your entries in by 2nd December 2011

email: info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au

Don’t forget your BRS shirt or Mizuno shoes these holidays!!

P.S. SATURDAY SESSIONS - want to keep those K's in the legs?? Meet for a long run before B2B on Saturday, 6:30am New Farm Rotunda, then B2B Saturday session! c u there

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Upcoming Events - Be part of it!!

2011-07-10T20:15:00.001-07:00

As we all settle into the new financial year, here is a list of our events over the coming months to add to your budget!! Print this out, stick it on your fridge.....feel the motivation!!

August: Brisbane Marathon Festival 20th Anniversary
When: Sunday 7th August
Where: starts the Riverstage
What: Anniversary42km, 21km, 10km, 2km
How: http://www.intrainingevents.com.au/default.asp?contentID=46
Team Details: Brisbane Run Squad
Discount Code: “S-bnerunsquad00”
Ensure you register the team name “Brisbane Run Squad” in the “Team Field” in the registration form. Type in the team code to apply the 10% discount to your entry.

September: Bridge to Brisbane 10,5km Fun Run
When: Sunday 11 September
Where: Starts Southside of Gateway, Finish Ekka Showgrounds
What: 10km or 5km Fun Run/walk
How: To join our BRS Team, go to. http://www.bridgetobrisbane.com.au/enter-online/
Enter Our Team Number = 24053
*early bird - 5th August, get in quick places are limited this year

September: BRS Cook Islands Trip- Round Rarotonga Road Race
When: 22-28th September
12 of us are embarking on a BRS adventure in the pacific!
How: Spots are still open - to join us email Michelle Henry michelle@fit4travel.com.au

October: Byron Bay Lighthouse Festival
When: Sunday 16th October
Where: Byron Bay starts and finishes near lighthouse
What: 10km Run, 8km Walk
How: Early bird entry closes on 16 September 2011 at 3pm
Join our Team and receive a further discount, go to: https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dHBUTnJYSmdHZW1wc1Y1bExhbUZDRWc6MQ

I am going to get a 3 bedroom apartment. Let me know if you are interested!

Movember: Mousdash 10.5km
When: Sunday 13th Movember
Where: Start Mt Cootha Botanical Gardens
What: 10.5km up and over Mt Cootha, or 5km to Summit
How: http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/component/content/article/70-the-mt-coot-tha-fun-run-brisbane-fun-runs.html
(launching in August)

December: Sherwood Trail Run 2,4,6km
When: Saturday 3rd December
Where: Carpark, in Jolimont St, Sherwood
What: A fun trail run to get into the spirit of the festive season.
BYO BBQ following and $2 donation to run
http://www.rivercityrunners.net/sherwood.html

That is the lead up for the next 6 months!!

Following Bridge to Brisbane Saturday training + Cook Islands, in October we will continue long Saturday runs, but add in Trail running and trail running skills sessions. They are a great way to do long runs in summer as you avoid the exposed roads and summer sun.

I can't wait

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Gold Coast Festival Weekend Wrap-Up

2011-07-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS to everybody who participated in the Gold Coast Marathon Festival!

What a weekend. In 2011, we had over BRS runners participating in all events, 2km, 4km, 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km. For the first event ever we had our very own BRS tent, which was positioned perfectly to cheer on our runners. BRS Man made an appearance, many PBs were won and celebrated, distances run by many for the first time, and to top it off, our very own Claire Lynch featured in her sterling BRS jacket on page 34 of the Sunday Mail!!

With over 50 BRSers completing the event and so many milestones, it is hard to know where to start for the event wrap up. Before I will try to capture the events as best I can.

2km, 4km, 5km

Our little BRS stars, Maddison, Noah, and Mikaela enjoyed the festival atmosphere and the cheering crowd. Noah moved those little legs at an amazing 5.6min/km pace to complete the 4km in 22.52! Maddison completed her 2km under 13mins, and Mikaela our littlest BRSer ran a gutsy 14.45 for her 2km. GREAT work little BRSers!
We adopted Ang as a BRSer for the weekend and she completed the 5km. After only 6 weeks of running, Ang finished it in style!!

10km

20 BRSers completed the 10km and toughed the killer head wind to bring is some smashing times.
Matt S. conquered it coming in sub 40mins, nearly 2 mins faster than his goal time. Coming 21st in the tough mens category of 25-29 is I am sure you agree, a sensational effort

Three of our runners cracked the 5mins/km pace coming in under 50mins. Andrew M, Ben Y and BRS man! well done. Jody, Sally, and Sam C were just pipped at the post by the clock coming in just over 50min pace.

Other grinners included our sub-1 hour runners. These included Shelley J, Emma T, Michelle W, Sam M, and Kathy N. Some great PBs by these ladies and it is great to see Shelley back from injury!

Our other proud BRSers who completed in style, running the whole 10km coming in under 70mins and their goals for the event: Wendy C, Michele W, Rebecca W, Jill M, Lisa P, and Jane H.

Well done to all our 10km runners!

21km - Half Marathon

We had a massive 17 BRSers complete the half-marathon event. Many of these runners were bravely doing a half marathon for the very first time.

Matt W had an outstanding performance, averaging 4.23/km for 21km to come in at 1:32, a great run and awesome time.

Hot on Matt's heels was Michael K with a 1:47min run and three of our runners only missed the sub-1:50mins by a few seconds, Jan G, Carla P, and Stephen M. Two BRS beat the 2hour clock scrapping in by 2-3 mins, Geoff O and Michelle M.

Of our remaining 1/2 marathoners, all were first timers, completed the 21km with great times All should be extremely proud of their runs, most finishing well ahead of their goals. Natalie B, Katrina F, Stacey C, Leah M, Lisa F, Claire L, Deanne B, Irene M, Emma B, and Cindy Y.

42km Marathon

A whoppng seven BRSers completed the Gold Coast Marathon 42km event. A marathon is a fantastic running milestone and all 7 of our runners finished the gruelling 42kms and for 4 of them, this was their very first attempt.

Geevan, Michael Y, Peter T, and Peter C set out in the early hours of Sunday to complete their very first marathon. Geevan cracked it at 4hr6mins, Peter C well under 5hrs with 4hr41mins and Peter T scrapping in under 5hr by 2mins! Micheal Yau stepped up to the plate to complete the 42 in just over 5hrs!

Top effort 1st time marathoners!!

Our remaining 3 marathoners stunned themselves by all smashing their goal times.

Melissa F absolutely smashed last year's time by 12mins to come in at 3hrs30mins. Darrell was and should be stoked with his 3hr25min run, his fasted in 24years!!
Both Melissa and Darrel ran the 42km in under 5min pace. I am sure you will agree senational efforts!

Matt C, an inspiration to us all. Matt completed the marathon in a mere 2hrs, 51mins, 4 minutes ahead of his goal time. This placed Matt 66 out of a total 3044 male marathon runners out there yesterday. This is an absolutely amazing effort and a tribute to your dedication and energy for the art of running.

An extremely successful weekend for all involved and a proud weekend for Matt and I. Seeing your faces as you ran past the BRS cheer squad and your smiles after the event just reinforces our passion for coaching and the Brisbane Run Squad, thanks!

Happy Running and well done again

Renae & Matt

My insights: the 100km Oxfam Trail Run

2011-06-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

I thought it was important not to miss the opportunity to reflect on an event such as the 100km Brisbane Oxfam 2011. I thought this is good timing for BRSers competing this weekend at the Gold Coast.

From reflection comes insights and learnings.

The Lead up
'Agreeing' to do the Oxfam 100km started with a simple question 'you keen to join a work team to raise money for Oxfam by doing the 100km? ' and a simple answer, 'why not'.

The lead up to the event for our team of 4 was varied.

1 member trained and competed in several 1/2 marathons over 3 months

1 member navigated the course weekend upon weekend, run/walking getting his bearings

1 member increased his run to work distance and dabbled in 1/2 marathons

I used my China Marathon training adding trails and off-road running

2 members were somewhat 'realistic' about the run, 2 members (including myself) were somewhat blase. I use 'blase' meaning ‘unconcerned’ not the true meaning of Having the sensibilities deadened by excess or frequency of enjoyment :-)

The night before an event is always focus time for me. I lay everything out, double and triple check. Aiming for 65-70g of carbs an hour meant a nice tasty mix of stuff I love to eat when I do long runs: fruit buns, muesli bars, vegemite sandwiches, carob ginger, and zip lock bags of homemade fried rice! Warm gear packed, plenty of blister pads, camel back full and 2 alarms set.... ready to go.

The Event

I don’t mean to glaze over the 100km, but probably not worth giving you a step by step rendition, so a happy medium. The event was as tough as I was expecting, however the night running was easier than I remember due to the beautiful full-moon which helped to compliment our headlamps.

We ploughed through only stopping briefly at check points to regroup, refocus, refuel, and head off. We could not have got through without Andrea our fabulous support crew. A warm hug and cuppa at midnight, just the right amount of fussing to make you feel important, a listening ear for a race debrief, and live updates on our race position.

We completed in 20hrs and 2mins, 4 hours quicker than expected. We finished at 4:32am with a very small crowd of Oxfam volunteers cheering us in as we ran across the line hand in hand. We amazingly came 24th out of the 305 teams who participated. A result none of us were ever expecting.

My top 4 insights

4. Make ‘fun’ your number 1 priority

Not once during the event did I stop having fun! For me, I had prepared my body and mind so that it was capable of the run, so if I wasn’t enjoying it, what’s the point. I constantly laughed, we told stories, we chatted to other runners, we took photos, shot films and most of all, we didn’t take ourselves too seriously!! We even stopped for a photo with an Oxfam Volunteer who was hula hooping on the side of the road at 2am, she was having a ball!

3. I say teamwork is one of the most important ingredients
Some say running isn’t a team sport, well not even a sport at all...but for me, running is all about being part of a team. When was the last time you went for a run and truly enjoyed it, reached your goal and potential during the run and felt a sense of satisfaction...when you did it by yourself? Running with a friend, your dog, a group, or in an event is a far more rewarding experience as you get to share the joy of running with others. A team that stays together, achieves together.

2. Spend a minute now to save the pain later
Yep a stitch in time saves nine!!! So true in so many cases. After 41km my ITBs were starting to twinge, so whilst the others rested and refuelled I took advantage of a massage.... that 10mins saved me much pain over the next 59km. One of our members changed his stocks every checkpoint as he knew he was prone to blisters, that 2mins each time saved us and him potential pain during and after the event. We also spent a minute here or there maneuvering over rocks and logs to avoid wet feet during creek crossings, running in wet shoes and socks is bound to result in nasty blisters and potential injury.

NUMBER 1 and most important....

1. The body is capable of anything...with proper preparation & headspace
By far the thing I learnt the most out of this event was the amazing capability of the human body when supported by our mental state. I am by no means saying everybody can go out NOW and run 100km, but everybody can with the right preparation, knowledge, and mental state.

We all prepared physically, we had regular meetings to exchange knowledge and research each of us bought to the event in relation to nutrition, running fatigued, navigation, gear carrying, and hydration. How did we prepare mentally? I can’t comment for the others but for me....
have a strategy for the following:

o HOW to RUN: we developed a team strategy of how the race was to go down – when we would run, when we wouldn’t. Following the strategy meant there were no surprises. We pretty much stuck to it perfectly.

o YOUR BODY: I knew going in that I didn’t need the recommended 65-70g carbs an hour as I know my body very well, I know the point of when to eat just before I feel like I need. This requires really getting in tune with your body and experimenting (during practice, not in the event!). I stuck to my food strategy, so even when we got to the last checkpoint at 90km and we missed our support crew, I knew how to run the last 10km to make the nutrition last.

o HYDRATION: I worked out how much hydration per section based on kms, approx time to run and temperature...therefore, I carried only the water I thought I needed. This meant I wasn't carrying excess weight. Instead of using the event supplied electrolyte drink, I carried my own sports drink. Why: I know how my body responds to it and I know the balance of salt/sugar/carbs suits me perfectly. How did I carry enough??? I took 1 bottle of super concentrate, 1 sip of Gatorade to 2sips of water.

o FATIGUE: yes running straight for 100km through the night is bound to result in fatigue and lapsing into operating on your subconscious brain which can lead to complacency and injury. My strategy for limiting this...have running conversations that make you think. We asked questions like: what is your favourite movie, food, city, job etc..and why? We constantly did mental calculations on anything...so how long is a step? How many of those in 100km etc you get the picture!!!

Your body is an amazing thing that can be moulded to achieve any sporting goal your mind sets it. Remember it is your MIND and MENTAL STATE that does the moulding, not simply your body!! Your brains are wired from pre-historical days to choose conservation of energy, remember this is a choice, you may also choose to let it conserve or choose to make it work!!

Happy Running & Good Luck at the Gold Coast!
Renae

Comment From Steve - Team Mate:

Thanks Renae, a great, comprehensive post!..

For those reading, I fall into the 2nd person category mentioned above.. :)(not a runner)
On my own reflection, I am glad I persisted as it was a great feeling of achievement..
My biggest apprehension was being in such elite company and being able to keep up as I have always struggled with running..

However,I felt totally non-pressured, relaxed and at ease.. a credit to the team. The BRS camp one week prior was a great confidence boost.

For me, it was about focussing on my strengths such as the downhill running, crossing the creeks, and tenacity.. :) Preperation for me was not so much about food and hydration but about managing the joints and feet..plenty of strapping on the areas prone to blisters and the glide you provided worked a treat on the shoulders with no chaffing at all during the 100km...

IF I do it again, and it is a big IF, I probably would not carry as much water, as the extra 3.5kg was noticable after the first 20km..As you say, the mental game was so important, especially late in the race with lack of sleep, cold gales, fatigue setting in, hills after hills, jokes getting cornier etc.. The discussions helped to prevent boredom setting in....no topics were out of bounds.. :)

Overall, very glad I did it, thank you for being with us, thanks to Ian for the original idea, and thanks to Pete for keeping up the humour when the going got tough, it was a very fulfilling event I will never forget..Steve...

Camp, Saturday Session & Bris Marathon Entries

2011-06-14T03:39:00.001-07:00

BRS CAMP 2011

Our first BRS Camp ever was last weekend. 17 dedicated BRSers braved the cold to complete a weekend jammed pack full of athletic fun!!
- Long Runs
- hitting the track for some 400s
- easing tired muscles in the pool
- massage lecture and demos
- spin cylcle
- pilates, and more!!!!!

Thanks everybody for a great weekend! I am looking forward to the next one!

Gold Coast
17 sleeps to Gold Coast 10km
18 sleeps to Gold Coast 1/2 and full marathon

With only that many sleeps to go we have hit the last week of speed training...easing into taper!
See you soon for your Gold Coast lead up sessions

This Saturday BRS session
BRS session is on this Saturday......a great long run for the lead up to the Gold Coast Marathon Festival.
Where: on corner near InTraining, Park Road, Milton
When: 6:30am Saturday 18 June
What: 1-1.5hrs, or 15km....followed of course by Coffee

Brisbane Marathon

Well Brissy Marathon is just around the corner on 7th August 2011, we have entered a team with a discount code to get you 10% off entries:

Distances: kids, 10k, 21km, 42km

Team Details
Name: Brisbane Run Squad
Discount Code: “S-bnerunsquad00”

Instructions:
1: Go to online registration page and register online
2: Select the event you wish to register for
3: If you have used the Streamlined Events system in the past, please type in your username and password or click here to retrieve your password
4: Ensure you register the team name “Brisbane Run Squad” in the “Team Field” in the registration form
5: Please complete all details and accept the event waiver terms and conditions
6: Type in your team code to apply the 10% discount to your entry fee
7: Click the proceed button and continue to complete the registration with your credit card information
8: You are now registered in the team name

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

3 cheers for Melissa and Matt

2011-06-05T04:25:00.000-07:00

3 cheers for Melissa and Matt for being outstanding BRS coaches during our absence.

Thanks a billion!

We are back with BRS Camp this weekend and 4 weeks til Gold Coast Marathon Festival with 48 BRS runner participating, it is sure to be a gigantic MONTH!!!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Thanks to the Whitsunday Heros

2011-05-17T02:46:00.000-07:00

We are currently oozing gratitude for all those who have banded together to literally save the day:

1. BIG THANKS to James and Phil from Whitsundays On-line, they were the first to respond and were instrumental in all of the below:

2. Accommodation THANKS heaps to the team at AIRLIE APARTMENTS

3. 1/2 day Yacht Charter on SV Domino with all the extras, THANKS TO JULIE & REG at Aussie Yachting

4. Ceremony at Daydream Island THANKS TO DAYDREAM ISLAND TEAM + JULIE & REG

5. Reception Lunch at Waterline THANKS TO TONY

6. Complimentary tickets aboard the Voyager IV THANKS TO WHITSUNDAY ISLAND ADVENTURE CRUISES

7. Photographs aboard the Voyager THANKS TO TROPIX PHOTOGRAPHY

Also THANKS to all the others who offered......
Christophe Vanek of QLD Yachtcharters who offered us 4 days on a yacht
Sue Batty who offered multiple times to conduct the ceremony

THANKS TO HEAPS to others in the Whitsunday/Airlie Beach community that offered assistance, products/services, or simply phone numbers!!

THANKS TO FIT4TRAVEL for chasing options and general assistance

LAST BUT NOT LEAST THANKS TO Jennifer Frahm for her Social Media expertise!

all champions!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt
P.S. if you missed episode one of the series....see
http://jenniferfrahmcollaborations.x.iabc.com/2011/05/07/whitsundaywedding-a-twitterific-tale/

BBQ Monday night/Camp/Substitute Coaches

2011-05-14T03:51:00.000-07:00

What: BBQ (burgers and snags)
Why: To send Renae and Matt on their way to complete the Great Wall Of
China Marathon
When: Monday 16th May 7pm (after training)
Where: BBQ area in front of Timmy's restaurant Southbank
What else: BYO drinks and jumpers

So what is happening with BRS when Renae and Matt are away?????

Melissa F and Matt C will be stepping is as your substitute coaches. They will be taking sessions until Wednesday 1st June. Please note there will be no Saturday sessions over the next 3 weeks.

BRS on Camp

We still need 3 more athletes to book in for camp to make it a goer. There is already 15 BRSers going on camp, join us and them, it is going to be a great weekend.

See blog below for details. Please email us by 5pm this Monday 16th May.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

BRS on Camp Booking Forms

2011-05-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

Booking Forms

The due date to have the camp booking forms is this Friday the 13th. So far we only have 7 forms returned.
We need a minimum of 20 athletes to come on the camp to make it a goer. Any less and it will cost too much money.

So, if you are keen, get your forms back to us asap. I will be bringing some forms to training tonight and Wednesday so you can fill them out there if you like.

Details of the camp are below.

Date: Friday 10 June to Sunday 12 June (public holiday on Monday 13th)
Where: Runaway Bay Super Sports Centre (www.rbssc.com.au)
Cost: $255 per peson
Inclusions: 2 x nights accomodation in our own lodge (room configuration will vary depending on numbers)
All meals (2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast, 1 x lunch)
Pool Entry
Use of the Track
Use of the Gym
Physio education session
Pilates Session
Professional Coaching
Exclusions: SnacksMovies/entertainment

We have a great weekend of training and fun planned so join us for the first BRS camp. Let us know interest by email or at training.

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

BRS on Camp / Noosa Winter Festival

2011-04-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

Noosa Winter Festival

Only 3 weeks to go until the Noosa Winter Festival being held at Noosa Heads on 21st and 22nd May 2011. The Half Marathon, 10km and 5km events are being held on the 22nd.

Race Starts: Half Marathon - 6:30am
10km run - 8:15am
5km run/walk - 8:55am

Race packs will be available for pick up at check-in on Saturday 21st May between 12pm and 5pm, or on the day 22nd from 5am. Remember registration closes 15 minutes prior to your designated race start.

If you plan to make a weekend of it and are staying in Noosa, other BRSers havae expressed interest in sharing accomodation to keep costs down. Please let us know if you wold be interested in sharing and we can co-ordinate details.

BRS on Camp

We are going on a Running Camp.

This is a great way to experience new types of training, getting to know each other better and have a great time. With the Gold Coast Running Festival and our trip to the Cook Islands fast approaching this will be an excelent way to get down to some serious training (but not too serious) leading up to these events.

Date: Friday 10 June to Sunday 12 June (public holiday on Monday 13th)
Where: Runaway Bay Super Sports Centre (www.rbssc.com.au)
Cost: $255 per peson
Inclusions: 2 x nights accomodation in our own lodge (room configuration will vary depending
on numbers)
All meals (2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast, 1 x lunch)
Pool Entry
Use of the Track
Use of the Gym
Physio education session
Pilates Session
Professional Coaching
Exclusions: Snacks
Movies/entertainment

We have a great weekend of training and fun planned so join us for the first BRS camp. Let us know interest by email or at training.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Saturday Session / Runners Pilates / Gold Coast

2011-04-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday Session

Where: Meet at Studio Rise 6-7 Byres St, Newstead
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=5-7+Byres+St,+Newstead+QLD&aq=1&sll=-25.165173,135.703125&sspn=29.181976,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=5%2F7+Byres+St,+Newstead+Queensland+4006&z=16

Time: 6:30am - 8:00am

What: Cross training using the spin bikes

To Bring: Towel, drink bottle, running gear, bike shoes with spd cleats (if you have them)

Please Note: as per usual we require a minimum of 20 participants to be able to pay for the rental of the studio. If we don't reach this number we will have to change the session to a long run style. We will meet at Studio Rise regardless of numbers.

See you there!!

Pilates Reformer Classes for Runners/Triathletes

Class time: Thursday 6-7pm

Start Date: Thursday 28th April (finishing Thursday 30th June)

Cost: $230 for 10 weeks ($23 per class)Maximum of 8 people per class

Address: The Body Refinery, 2/15 Lamington St, New Farm

A consult with our physios is necessary for health insurance claiming. If claiming is not needed then no physio consult is required.

To book in or get more info about the benefits of pilates for runner/triathletes contact:

Lisa p 33583915 m 0450638235 e lisa_tasker@hotmail.com

Gold Coast Entry

Only 10 weeks to go until the Gold Coast Marathon Festival. Entry is open and we have a code to enter as a member of BRS and receive a 10% discount.

See previous blog for details on how to enter as a BRS team mamber.

Accomodation for Noosa Winter Festival

Darrell Giles is looking to find anyone wanting to share accomodation the night before (Saturday night 21st May).If you would like to share some expenses with the D Man let us know and we can pass on the info, or just talk to him at training.

If anyone else requires a lift, accomodation sharing or anything else either at Noosa or the Gold Coast Marathon let us know and we can pass on info. Alternatively writing on our facebook site is also a great way to contact members.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Gold Coast Marathon Festival Entry

2011-04-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

2011 Gold Coast Airport Marathon – Team Entry Guide for Brisbane Run Squad

Embrace the next step towards the 2011 Gold Coast Airport Marathon staged annually on the first weekend in July, the 33rd Gold Coast Airport Marathon is set to motivate and challenge more than 23,000 people of all ages and abilities.

To enter into the Brisbane Run Squad team for the 2011 Gold Coast Airport Marathon, please follow the below instructions.

Step 1: Go to http://www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au/

Step 2: Entry as Enter Online

Step 3: Click To enter online “CLICK HERE”

Step 4: Are you entering as part of a team "I would like to search for an existing team‟

Step 5: Click Continue

Step 6: Enter the team name and hit the green tick to search and display the team

Step 7: After the search, the team name will appear. Click the green tick next to the team name.

Step 8: In the password section enter run2011 and click join.

Step 9: Once the team code is accepted, you then progress through the normal entry steps

Step 10: Select the event and category and click continue

Step 11: Select specific event category/price and click continue

Step 12: Enter all the personal fields and click continue

Step 13: Select any extras/functions and click continue

Step 14: Review the entry (no discount will be displayed, discount calculated when team payment is made) and click Save and Exit

Step 15: Please take note of the reference number.

You are now entered as part of the Brisbane Run Squad team for the 2011 Gold Coast Airport Marathon!

Saturday Session & Cook Islands

2011-04-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday Session When: Saturday 9th April 6:30am Where: Meet at Intraining 33 Park Rd, Milton What: 1.5 hrs Long run session then coffee afterwards (you are on Park Road afterall) To Bring: Running gear (there will be plenty of water fountains during the run so drink bottles optional) Cook Island Race/Holiday The time to make a decision is fast approaching. 12th April, next Tuesday, is the date set to make a decision on weather you will be coming to the most awesome running event on BRS's calender to date or weather you will stay at home and only dream of tropical white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and fantastic company. We need a minimum of 10 committed runners to make this happen. Payment for the flights, also being your deposit is not due until after this date so you still have a little time to budget. Because we do need a minimum number, if you commit, you are locked in. It would be really aweful if we had some runners pay for the trip only to have some pull out and drop us below our minimum. Let me know via email or at training and I can get a booking form to you. This is going to be the best, so come on everyone lets go BRS on tour! Happy Running Renae & Matt

New Uniform Order & Entry to Noosa Winter Festival

2011-03-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

New Uniform Order We are putting in a uniform order at the end of this week. Champ Systems (where we get our uniforms from) is really flat out at the moment so it may take the full 5 weeks to receive the order, so I want to put it in as early as possible to make sure we receive the uniforms before the next major racing event. If you would like to order something let me know at training or by email info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au . I also have a document with pictures and prices. If you would like to see it, let me know at training or email. Entry to the Noosa Winter Festival We will be entering as a team into this event. Please enter online as an individual: - Go to www.usmevents.com.au - Find and click on the Noosa winter festival - click on 'Entry ' then enter online. - Fill out fields as an individual entry, then on the smae page as event selection tick 'Scody Largest Team' and enter Brisbane Run Squad. - That's it. Hopefully we win largest team. Happy Running Renae & Matt

Saturday Session & Twilight Results

2011-03-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning 26th March

It's on again!!! This Saturday session will be cross training at Studio Rise on the Spin Bikes.

When: Saturday 26th March 6:30am start
Where: Studio Rise Personal Training Studio
6-7 Byres St, Newstead
What: Cycling is a great way to cross train for running. Building leg strength and muscle to
increase speed and reduce the risk of injury.
To Bring: Towel, drink bottle and running gear.
Cost: $10 members / $13 non-members

We need to get a minimum of 20 people to this session to pay for the Studio Rental so come and join us for a great cross-training session.

Twilight Results

On Sunday 20th March over 40 BRSers ventured forward to the University of Queensland for the annual Twilight Run Festival. The day was wet but spirits were not dampened as we put in a showing for all the events 1km, 3km, 10km and 21km.

Our youngest member Mikaela ran over half way without stopping during her 1km race, finishing with a time of 6:20!

Other junior BRSers Noah, Maddison and Matt C competed in the 3km race. With young Matty C coming 3rd overall.

A massive showing for the 10km with everyone doing a great job on the slow difficult course and 8 members competing in the 21km event, all posting great times.

Well done to all who competed.

Happy running
Renae and Matt

Twilight Event This Sunday 20th March

2011-03-17T04:52:00.000-07:00

Its time to put all that training into practice

Meeting Point

This year we plan to meet in the same place as last year, the grassy mound near the netball courts at the river end of the athletics track. We will be there from 2:45pm.

Race Pack Collection

Don't forget to pick up your race packs. These can be collected from:
Intraining Running Centre, Milton 9 - 5 Friday 18th and Saturday 19th
or
from 2:30pm on race day at the event.

Start Times

10km - 3:30pm
1km Kids - 4:45pm
21km - 5:00pm
3km - 5:15pm

If you want to participate but haven't entered? Nicole has an entry for the 10km that she can transfer. Please let us know asap.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Twilight Recce Run & Cook Islands

2011-03-09T14:21:00.000-08:00

Twilight Recce Run

We will be doing a reconnaissance or the Twilight Run this Sunday 13th March. This will be instead of the scheduled Saturday morning session.

Where: UQ, carpark opposite the Athletics Centre
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=The+University+of+Queensland,+Chancellors+Place,+St+Lucia,+Queensland&aq=0&sll=-27.617326,153.117571&sspn=0.007092,0.019248&ie=UTF8&hq=The+University+of+Queensland&hnear=The+University+of+Queensland,+Chancellors+Pl,+St+Lucia+Queensland+4067&ll=-27.493388,153.012729&spn=0.00355,0.009624&z=17
When: Sunday 13th March. Meet at 5:15pm
Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members

We will be doing a 10km run following the circuit of the Twilight Race. This is designed to familiarise runners with the track so everyone knows hwere they are going. One less hting to have to worry about.

Cook Islands Race

Thanks to those who attended our Cook Island Info Session last week.
Darren from Fit4Travel attended to talk about the travel and event side of things & Matt and I talked about the training and BRS lead up.

Remember you have plenty of time to decide. 12th April is D day to decide, lock yourself in and pay the airfare.

Fit4Travel will manage all of our travel arrangements and bookings.....and BRS will manage the training, so easy.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us. Also we still have some travel info packs, ask us at training for one!

Happy Running
Ren & Matt

Saturday Session awesome deal-spin+run+core

2011-02-24T03:50:00.000-08:00

We have secured an awesome deal for Saturday Morning's Session.

We have access to Studio Rise to use their spin cycle bikes.

So, a great opportunity for a 1.5 hour spin + run + core combo. To cover the cost of hiring the studio the cost for this session is $12. We need a minimum of 20 people so come and give it a go! No experience on a spin bike necessary.

Where: Studio Rise 5-7 Byres St, Newstead
When: Saturday 26th Feb, 6:30am Start
What to Bring: Towel, Drink Bottle, Normal running attire.

No need to RSVP but if we do not make 20 people we will meet there regardless and do a different session.

COME AND GIVE IT A GO!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Cook Island Info Seminar

2011-02-20T22:00:00.000-08:00

Round Rarotonga Road Race, Cook Islands

Looking for a goal for 2011 - One of the most scenic, fun, running festivals in the WORLD!!!

Festival Itinerary:
Friday, 23 September 2011 - Rest Day - Rest Day - take in the sights
Saturday, 24 September 2011 - Main Race - 31km
Sunday, 25 September 2011 - Prize giving dinner
Monday, 26 September 2011 - Hash House harrier's birthday run - fun run with a theme
Tuesday, 27 September 2011 - round the rock relay race -afternoon event teams of 5-10
Wednesday, 28 September 2011 nutters cross island run - over the mountain, through valleys, and resort - short 10km!!
http://www.fit4travel.com.au/module.php?module=fit4travel&file=show_sports_package.php&package_id=1&event_id=8

Join us for an Information Session:
When: Monday 28th February
Time: 7-8pm
Where: The Ship Inn
What: Darren from Fit4Travel will be coming along to take us through the details. Matt and I will be there to talk about the lead up, programs, and extra sessions.

Come along and find out more!!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Change of Location Saturday Session

2011-02-10T22:35:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Suttons Beach is closed due to unhealthy water. So, we will be changing the location on this saturdays session.

Where: New Farm Park (Rotunda)
When: Saturday 12th February
Time: 6:30am

You will only need to bring running cloths and maybe a towel for stretching on afterwards.

See you all there.

Renae & Matt

Saturday Session & Gold Coast Marathon Festival

2011-02-08T02:29:00.000-08:00

Saturday Session:

Backed by popular demand, we are back at Sutton's Beach for our Combo session this Saturday

What: 45 min long run, 45 min core training session
Where: Meet at Car Park, Suttons Beach, Redcliffe. http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=suttons+beach+redcliffe&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=29.455084,78.837891&ie=UTF8&oi=localspell&cd=1&hq=&hnear=Suttons+Beach,+Brisbane+Queensland+4020&ll=-27.237727,153.113955&spn=0.003606,0.009624&z=17 At the roundabout at the end of Macdonnell Rd, take the 2nd exit into the carparking area of the beach. We will meet there.

Time: 6:30am
Bring: Drink bottle, towel, running gear, togs (something you can do exercise in ie. no skimpy triangle bikinis), hat, sunscreen.
Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members

Hope to see you all there. If you have any questions just ask at training Wednesday.

Gold Coast Marathon Festival

WOW only 21 weeks to go until the Gold Coast Marathon Festival
Entries have not yet opened..
BUT
That shouldn't stop you from booking accommodation and planning your lead up to the events.
Accommodation: Some suggestions where up until last week there were still rooms:

Broadwater Keys it’s about a 30 minute walk to Australia Fair
Blue Waters Luxury Apartments Marine Parade
3 on the public transport pick up routes:
Mantra Sun City Surfers Paradise
Holiday Inn Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise Marriot Resort & Spa

Get in quick.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Nutrition Seminar & Lunch Time Runs

2011-02-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

Nutrition Seminar
"WANT TO TRAIN HARDER? THEN STOP UNDER RECOVERING"

What: BTS has arranged for their expert nutritionist Sally Garrad to hold a seminar focusing on recovery. Sally will be talking about the importance of hydration and nutrition and how it impacts on recovery. We have been invited along to attend.
When: Monday 7th February @ 6:30pm
Where:Ship Inn, Southbank (seminar room where we had our party)
How Much: The seminar is free of charge and savories will be provided after.

Change to Run Time on Monday 7th Feb

Due to the nutrition seminar discussed above, BRS training will start at 5:30pm on Monday 7th Feb to allow members to attend the seminar.
We anticipate the seminar not commencing until 6:45pm, so we should have time to have a quick bird bath before.

Lunch Time Runs

Darren Henry, one of our colaboration partners at Fit 4 Travel, is wondering if anyone of our members would like to join him for some lunch time runs. He is currently running 3-4 times a week during his lunch break and is looking for some company.

He has proposed to meet at Southbank or Coronation Drive. If anyone would be interested in a lunch time run, and some ery interesting chats about travel, let us know and we will forward the deatils on to Darren.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Flood Appeal, Aussie Day, Saturday sessions

2011-01-25T03:14:00.000-08:00

FLOOD APPEAL - THANKS HEAPS!
Last week you, our Brisbane Run Squad members donated officially $405.00 to the QLD Flood Appeal.
Thanks for attending training last week and your extra donations that has enabled us to donate such a large amout to help our community.
Four BRSers also donated $50 each to the Flood Appeal to ride with Lance Armstrong and Robbie McEwen on Tuesday. Matt Cooper had a donation box at his 30th Birthday, raising $144 with his friends company doubling it too.

IN TOTAL = $749.00 WELL DONE BRSers!!

AUSSIE DAY TRAINING & DRINKS!
Training is ON tomorrow, Wednesday 26 January

Normal place, The Ship Inn,
Normal time, 6-7pm

You want to train with BRS on Aussie Day, we want to celebrate Aussie day with you
Dinner and drinks, The Ship Inn after training.

Come celebrate Aussie Day and help our our Sponsors, the Ship Inn who lost over $6000 of stock during the flood black outs.

SATURDAY TRAINING

What: COMBO Strength Run 1 hour, core 30mins
Where: meet at Slaughter Falls Car Park, Mt Cootha
When: 7am - 8:30am
To Bring: waterbottle (camelback if you want to drink while you run), towel, enthusiasm!
Cost: $8 non-members, $6 members

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Flood Donation

2011-01-16T02:19:00.001-08:00

This week all money received at BRS training sessions will be donated to the Queensland Flood Relief Appeal. Lets get back into training and help out our community in need.

The more runners we get the bigger the donation. This is a great opportunity to take a break from the carnage and cleanse the mind.

Please see the previous blog for details on a location change of the weeks sessions.

Renae & Matt

Monday Session Location Change

2011-01-15T20:37:00.000-08:00

Location Change

Due to the floods and the state of Southbank, Renae and I have decidd to move the meeting location for Monday 17th and Wednesday 19th January session to The Cliffs Cafe, Kangaroo Point.

http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=cliffs+cafe+kangaroo+point&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=29.455084,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=cliffs+cafe&hnear=Kangaroo+Point+Queensland&ll=-27.475418,153.038435&spn=0.01424,0.038495&z=15

There is parking on River Tce and side streets.

Time is still 6pm - 7pm, we will finish the session with 10 to 15 minutes of structured stretching to target new muscles used in the weekends clean-ups.

Thanks & update

Thankyou to everyone who helped out on the weekend cleaning up after the devistating floods. I have heard from most of our members in the flood effected areas and they are safe and well. For any members still requiring assistance please contact me on 0447578205.

Renae and I rode in to Southbank to visit and offer assistance to our 2 major sponsors, Active Stride and The Ship Inn. Glen and Robson at Active Stride were able to remove all stock prior to the floods and are re-stocking ready for business this week. The Ship Inn escaped the floods and appears undamaged, we were unable to talk to John and the staff as they have no electricity and are closed.

Thanks again
Renae & Matt

Meeting Point for flood Clean up

2011-01-14T03:41:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who volunteered to do some clean-up tomorrow.

Here are the details of what is going on:

What: Clean-up of Claire's Mum's house and a couple of Steve's mates houses, and anyone elso looking like they need a hand

Where: Meet at 37 Morley St, Chelmer
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=37+morley+st+chelmer&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=29.455084,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=37+Morley+St,+Chelmer+Queensland+4068&ll=-27.510098,152.978439&spn=0.028471,0.07699&z=14

When: 7:30am

To bring: Good boots, long pants, gloves. Anything else you have that might help ie. spade, broom etc.
Snacks. Sunscreen, plenty of water (to drink) and your strong back

After we meet we can co-ordinate the clean-up.

Mel F has offered to do any babysitting or feeding of the troops. If we bring our own snacks I thought Mel could go on a Subway run or something for luncho's. (If she is not babysitting . Let me know if you need this)

If you can't make it to the meeting time, just call me 0447 578 205, I will let you know where we are.

I will see you tomorrow.

Matt

Saturday Morning 15th Jan Session

2011-01-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Flood Help

This is a shout out to anyone who needs help or know's someone who needs help with clean up following the floods.

It is also a shout out to any BRSers who were not effected to offer a hand to those in need.

My plan is to make this Saturday's cross-training session a "clean-up session". I am offering myself for the day and I urge any others who are able on Saturday to help aswell.
If I get more than 1 location needing assistance I will try to co-ordinate any volunteers to help at these various locations.

Please let me know if you need help or know someone and also please let me know if you are able to help others on Saturday.

Matt

Resolution Run/Swim Results

2011-01-08T23:48:00.000-08:00

WET ENOUGH FOR YA??????????????????????

Probably the most used comment all day. It was absolutly bucketing down while we were waiting to start the 2011 Resolution Run at Southbank. The rain did clear up for the start, and stayed away for most of the race, but decided to give us a drenching before anyone had finished. We all looked as though we had completed the first leg of a triathlon rather than a 5km or 10km run.

Slower times for all competitors were posted due to the weather and the fact that the run was at least 500 meters too long. Our 16 BRSers, however, put the bad weather behing them, saying "lucky we have done alot of training in the rain".

Some times to mention are Matt S, coming in as first BRSer and 27th male. It was the day for the ladies however with Mel F coming 9th female in the 10km and Jody H smashing out a 6th place female in the 5km.

Congratulations to all BRSers who competed in the terrible conitions. To complete a race in those circumstances takes alot of guts.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Resolution Run, This Sunday 9th Jan

2011-01-04T21:15:00.000-08:00

It's Here

The first run of 2011.

What: Resolution Run
When: Sunday 9th January 2011
Start: 8:30am
Where: Start and Finish at the Cultural Forecourt, Southbank (near the wheel)

BRS will meet near the start off Russell Street Phwy. Just look for us, we are very easy to see. Someone will be there to watch bags.

You can pick up race packs early from InTraining Running Centre, 33 Park Rd, Milton between 3-5pm on Saturday 8th. Otherwise you can collect your pack on the day at the Cultural forecourt, registration opens at 7am.

Go to https://regonline.activeglobal.com/custImages/281327//brisbane.pdf for a detailed description of the race map.

Remember it will be very hot with the late start, so hydrate well the two days before.

Happy Runing
Renae & Matt

2011 Open For Business

2011-01-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

What's your New Years Resolution?

Research and life shows that those who set: SMART Goals specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time conscious goals are more likely to suceed in getting to where they want to be!

So what are your 2011 GOALS??

Talk to us about how we can help you formulate and achieve these goals. We offer personalised running programs designed specifically to achieve your individual goal. eg, finishing a 10km run, a faster event time, or completing your first half or full marathon. Here are a few options.

Option 1 Personalised Running Program + analysis:
1 x 60min briefing and analysis sessions: here we analyse your running technique, full posture and gait analysis, heart rate tests, flexibility etc, provide feedback, gather information from you on goals, personal commitments and other data to enable us to design a program that best suits your goal and needs.
2 x fortnightly personalised programs per month (focussed on improving your running and obtaining your fitness goals), including nutritional and cross training advice, on-line access to us, your coaches for any advice/questions
Pricing = $50 per month + $60 for the full analysis and briefing session

Option 2 Personalised Running Program:
Complete an on-line form to gather personal information and goals.
2 x fortnightly personalised programs per month (focussed on improving your running and obtaining your fitness goals), including nutritional and cross training advice, on-line access to us, your coaches for any advice/questions
Pricing = $50 per month

Please contact Renae or Matt if you have any questions or want to find out more info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au

Please note, the above pricing options only apply to BRS members and does not include BRS session costs.

2011 BRS Sessions

We are back to normal from tonight 03rd January, Monday & Wednesday 6pm-7pm leaving from the Ship Inn at Southbank and our fortnightly Saturday sessions from 15 January at various locations (see calendar for details).

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Sunday 2 January - Session Details

2011-01-01T00:02:00.000-08:00

We had an off-road and core session planned for Sunday, but due to the weather, a change of plan!!

Meet at Active Stride, Southbank at 7am, for a 1-1.5 hour run with some great hill efforts around Westend.

Then coffee afterwards.

Welcome to 2011.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Best Wishes and BRS closing dates!

2010-12-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

BRS Man and Renae hope that your 2010 Christmas is ACES!!

Remember Brisbane Run Squad is closed down for Monday 27 and Wednesday 29th December.......Back for an awesome Combo Session on Sunday 2nd and back to normal on Monday 3 January.

BIG MERRY CHRISTMAS

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Upcoming Saturday Cross Training Session

2010-12-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

But First.........................

Renae and I would like to say a big thanks to all who contributed towards our 1 year present. On Saturday 11th we used our Red Balloon voucher to do a 1 day sailing course. We both brought our fathers with us to make up numbers and do some bonding. We had a great time and learnt alot. Thanks again.

Saturday 18th Cross Training

What: 45 min long run, 45 min core training session

Where: Suttons Beach, Redcliffe. http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=suttons+beach+redcliffe&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=29.455084,78.837891&ie=UTF8&oi=localspell&cd=1&hq=&hnear=Suttons+Beach,+Brisbane+Queensland+4020&ll=-27.237727,153.113955&spn=0.003606,0.009624&z=17 At the roundabout at the end of Macdonnell Rd, take the 2nd exit into the carparking area of the beach. We will meet there.

Time: 6:30am

Bring: Drink bottle, towel, running gear, togs(something you can do exercise in ie. no skimpy triangle bikinis), hat, sunscreen.

Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members

Hope to see you all there. If you have any questions just ask at training Wednesday.

Happy running

Renae & Matt

Twilight Running Festival Early Bird Entry

2010-12-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

Early Bird Entries finish on 31 Dec 2010, after which they go up $10, and continue to rise if you enter even later. So, get in the action as soon as you can and save yourself some money.

Instructions on how to enter are below. Dont forget to enter as part of the Brisbane Run Squad team. Last year we won the biggest team prize and received lots of prizes!

1. Go to registration website: www.twilightrun.com.au. Go to ENTER on left hand side. You can then choose to enter online, by post or by person.
2. Select which event you would like to register in. If you have more than one entrant, I would suggest entering seperately. It gets abit confusing on the next page with deffering entrants and distances.
3. Proceed by clicking “Add to my entry”.
4. You can pre-fill the details if you entered last year and have an email and password. Otherwise fill out your details. REmember to enter Brisbane Run Squad as your Team/Organisation Name.
5. Agree to the terms
6. Check all details are correct and accurate
7. Proceed to payment area and complete payment
8. Once payment is complete, you will be automatically emailed a tax invoice.

The costs per race and dates when the prices increase, as well as the cut-off dates for all the different method of entry are on the ENTER window.

Hope to see you there

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Weekend Wrap-up

2010-12-06T16:31:00.000-08:00

Morning Core Training

We had a good turn out for the mornings combo session. 45 min long run followed by 45 min core circuit training.
There was alot of whining and some had trouble sitting on the swiss ball, but everyone did really well and we hope some good tips and core training tecniques will be taken away and used by yourselves.

BRS Xmas Party

A little bit of rain wasn't enough to dampen the spirits of all the attendees at the xmas party on Saturday. After Renae and I took 1 hour to figure out how to erect the marquee, and then only after the help from Janett and some friendly locals, the party kicked off with croquet and giant connect 4 being the main entertainment.

With the pitch soggy to swamp style, things heated up in our croquet challenge. The winner to take home a gift voucher for $99 to be used for a Story Bridge Climb. After 4 heats the final came down to 4 teams, Matt and Melissa, Claire and Shelley, Col and Michelle, Ben and Steve. It was a nail biter, being made a bigger challenge with Ben and Steve deciding they could not win so changing tactics to be as bigger trouble makers as possible.

Eventually the final won by Col and Michelle. But, as there can be only one winner, it was either a fight to the death or a knock out croquet round. Dissapointedly they chose the croquet.
And the winner was........................................................................................COL. Congrats!!!!!!!

Afterwards, we walked up to the Story Bridge Hotel for some dinner and drinks. I have only received second hand info but I have heard that Matt S may have had one too many chandys and was finding the floor of the hotel not too stable. I also believe Col was driving the porcelein bus later that night shouting at Hughey.

A great night had by all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait for next year.

Happy Running (and partying)
Renae & Matt

5 Km Timetrial

2010-11-27T22:53:00.000-08:00

Timetrial
Congratulations to all who completed the 5km time trial on Wednesday night 24th Nov 2010. Amazingly, everyone acheived a PB (with the exception of a few who have not been able to train for ages). There were some massive PB's with some taking as much as 5 min's off!

Bag Winners
Winners of a Mizuno draw string bag were chosen from:
a. Run time closest to a predicted time or,
b. If no predicted time given, closest to current PB time.

And the winners are.............................................

Katrina F: not only did she predict a time 4min 35 sec faster than her PB. She came in only 16sec off her prediction.
Claire L: with no predicted time she came in only 3 sec off her previous PB
Steve G: no predicted time, came in only 34 sec off his previous PB
Kris R: Being his first timetrial, he was only 34 sec off his predicted time
Geoff O: only first timetrial also, Geoff was 70 sec off his predicted time

Special mention to Matt C, he was only 1 min off his predicted time and went 5 sec faster than his previous PB. Considering his time over the 5 km was 17min 40sec, we are going to throw a bag his way also.

Well done to all. We are going to do a 5km timetrial every 2 months from now on instead of 3 months. This will help us as coaches to track your progress more closely and you as athletes to track your progress more accurately.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Have Your Say Action Plan Part 1

2010-11-17T02:37:00.000-08:00

Action Plan Part 1:

Based on the Have Your Say Survey results, we are preparing to make the following improvements to Brisbane Run Squad, commencing this Saturday:

1. Extra Sessions
Introducing an extra session on Saturday mornings. This will start fortnightly and move to weekly if they prove popular.

2. Type of Extra Session
With Core, Off-Road, and Long Runs proving to be the most wanted, we will rotate the fortnightly sessions between these and even do combo sessions (a run and core in a session together).

3. Session Locations
Many of you wanted alternative locations, so we will endevour to mix it up!

Sessions will be roughly 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month. All fortnightly session details will be added to the calendar 2-3 weeks in advance, so keep an eye out.

ACTION 1
When: This Saturday 20 November 2010

Where: Slaughter Falls Car Park, Mt Cootha
meet near the public toilets on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, 1st left after Birdwood Terrace http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&sll=-27.474923,152.965908&sspn=0.028404,0.082912&ie=UTF8&hq=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&hnear=&ll=-27.471991,152.974234&spn=0.007101,0.020728&z=16

Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members
* all abilities welcome, beginners please join us for a modified version

Time: 7am kick off for 80mins run (1hr 20mins)

Action Plan 2 addressing camps/national/international events coming soon

Happy Running

Renae & Matt (p.s. don't forget to RSVP for the xmas party!)

Mousdash Wrap UP & End of Year Party

2010-11-16T02:24:00.000-08:00

MOUSDASH 10.5 Mt Cootha Run - Last Sunday

Last Sunday saw Brisbane Run Squad members put all that tough hill training to perfect use as they climbed up and down one of Brisbane's most well known land marks - Mt Cootha.

BRS Man made another appearance - and with a full length lycra suit in close to 100% humidity, BRS man did well encouraging our runners and participants in general (sorry we are unable to reveal his identity).

Scotty, Steve, Peter C, Stacey, Robyn, Emma, Katrina, and Jody all powered to the top of the Mt Cootha Summit (2.5km up), then over undulating terrain for 5.5 km, then 2.5 of hard down hill before going up and then finally down towards the finish line. The toughest run on the BRS calendar and all finshed in style!

WELL DONE.

Brisbane Run Squad End of Year & Col's Moving to Sydney Party

We can finally reveal the location and the oodles of fun ahead for the 2nd BRS end of year party.

This year we sadly are also using this party as an opportunity to say Good Luck and best wishes for our much loved member, Col Neate - who is moving the Sydney.

When: Saturday 4 December 2010

What:

A LAWN Party

Time: 3:30pm - 5:30pm

with Putt Putt Pool & Croquet! With Croquet on the verge of its greatest come back - we have decided to set the trend and get all our members into this latest craze! Putt Putt Pool is for those of you who enjoy golf, but have a bad swing, and those who enjoy snooker, but have longed to do it outside! - even better, you can do both together!!!!!!

Where: Captain Burke Park (under the Story Bridge) - we will have a marque, please BYO chair if required. There is a playground there also if you would like to bring your kids.

Cost: $25 per head ($5 for children under 12) - includes games, the venue, afternoon nibbles, and softdrinks. BYO any other drinks/alcohol.

THEN

What: Dinner, drinks and continue the party!

Where: STORYBRIDGE HOTEL - OUTBACK BAR AND GRILL http://www.storybridgehotel.com.au/dining/outback_bar.php

Time: 6pm - late

Cost: own expense

RSVP and Payment: by Monday 29 November, 2010

email your rsvp to info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au for payment details or accept FACEBOOK invitation and we will email you the payment details.

UP FOR GRABS FOR THE CROQUET CHAMPION - A Story Bridge Climb voucher better get practicing!

LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT DAY!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Results - Our First Member Survey THANKS!

2010-11-10T03:06:00.000-08:00

The results are in!!!

Thanks to the 30 BRS Members who completed the first Brisbane Run Squad 'Have Your Say' Survey.

We asked members for their feedback on
- Sessions Format

- Coaching Styles

- Interest in extra sessions, national/international events, and training camps

1. Extra Sessions

20 of you said YES to an extra session, and 9 said MAYBE & and the most wanted time was SATURDAY AM!

2. Extra Session Type

WOW, some interesting results - sounds like you are keen to 'mix' it up. Core was the most chosen (20), followed by Long Run (17), and 15 for Off-road.

You also told us you would like alternative session locations.

3. Training Camps and National/International Events

Over 15 of you said you would be interested in a running camp, and lots of you sat on the fence with a maybe!

Over 10 of you also said you would be interested in organised national or international events!

Great responses and thanks also for the improvement suggestions and comments.

Your responses have provided us with direction for the squad and how we can make it even better!

Stay tuned for our ACTION plan to address your feedback.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Cool Night Classic Wrap UP

2010-11-07T01:32:00.000-07:00

A GREAT turn out from BRS for the famous 5.2km PriceWaterHouseCoopers Cool Night Classic last Thursday evening.

30 BRS runners participated in the event and BRS man was also back for a guest appearance

The rain held off as over 4000 people ran around the banks of the Brisbane River! With that many people it was certainly a fun run, with all BRSers doing great times, finishing strongly.

Great live entertainment and well deserved beverages to finish!

Check out the photos http://picasaweb.google.com/BrisbaneRunSquad/CoolNightClassice2010#

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Weekend Wrap Up & Cool Night Classic Update

2010-11-01T03:26:00.000-07:00

Weekend Wrap up

Byron Bay 10km Lighthouse, what a RUN! We had over twenty runners participating in the tough scenic event with 2km up hill and 2km on the beach, one of the tougher runs on our BRS event calendar.

With a yummy pasta and pizza meal the night before (and a few beers & wine), a sleepless night with all the Haloween Parties, our runners were up early raring to go!

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to all who participated:

Matt S, Ben Y, BRS Man, Steve G, Sam C, Katrina F, Deanne B, Irene B, Janet J, Claire C, Anita S, Shelli J, Claire J, Elizabeth, Michael K, Mel F, Kathy N, Sean, Paul, Col N!

Great Race Times and a Great weekend!

Noosa Triathlon

Well done to all of our BRSers who participated in the Noosa Triathlon last weekend.

Matt and Melissa teamed up with cyclists and both completed the swim and run with great times! Michelle M another Triathlon under her belt, has she found her passion again? Geoff was also an enthusiastic competitor over the weekend, we look forward to your debrief!

Darrell G completed his first Olympic Distance Triathlon - after all those nerves, Darrell had nothing to worry about! Good stuff and we hope to see you out there again!

What a SPORT Weekend, love it!

Cool Night Classic - This Thursday 4 November

The annual PricewaterhouseCoopers Cool Night Classic 5.2km event is this Thursday 4 November.

We have 30 BRS Runners participating, so it is bound to be a GREAT night.

Meeting Time: Matt will be there from 4:45pm

Meeting point: QUT side of Goodwill Games Bridge

Race Start Time: 5:30pm

Race Packs:

If you entered before Friday 29th October, we will pick your race pack up as Team Captain for the BRS Team. If you entered under BRS after 29th October, you will need to collect your race pack yourself.

Remember there is entertainment with drinks and food for purchasing afterwards!

Can't wait

See you all there

Renae & Matt

Movember is approaching

2010-10-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Start thinking about what it would be like to be an out of work porn star boys because BRS is putting together a Movember team and we want you in it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Each year Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces in Australia and around the world, with the sole aim of raising vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men.

Men sporting Movember moustaches, known as Mo Bros, become walking, talking billboards for the 30 days of November and through their actions and words raise awareness by prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health.

To join The BRS team and start raising money simply go to http://au.movember.com/mospace/620676/ and click "join my team".

Or if you wish to donate to this cause go to http://au.movember.com/mospace/620676/ and click "donate to my team".

I am going to look like a real tool if I am the only one at training with a dogey mo, so get on board.

Dont forget about the Mousdash.

When: Sunday 14 Movember, 2010
Where: Mt Cootha, Brisbane
What: 10.5km challenge or 5km summit walk
To enter: http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/mousdash-entry-form.html
In the Corporate Team Name: enter Brisbane Run Squad
Cost: $40 for 10.5km, $30 for 5km
Entries close Friday 12 Movember - no early bird discounts, or team discount

Here are a few ideas for your moustash style to get you in the mood

Happy growing

Matt

Our Collaboration Partners - Part 2 Studio Rise

2010-10-21T04:37:00.000-07:00

Our 2010/2011 Collaboration Partners working together in the health and fitness industry to benefit our local community

Brisbane Run Squad is proud to announce Studio Rise as one of our collaboration partners for this year

Studio Rise
Personal Training & Spin Studio

Looking for some cross training opportunities to complement your running routine?

Studio Rise, Brisbane’s premier indoor “spin” based studio.
Spin Cycle is a great way to boost your strength, power, and aerobic endurance, helping you to improve your overall fitness & running.

Studio Rise is owned by two motivated, wise and dedicated women Collette O’Brien and Belinda Howard.

"Studio Rise is unique. A sanctuary from the bustle of life. Our riders benefit from the stress free environment allowing them to self-regulate their workout, their body and their mind through motivating and inspirational music. "

Where to find them:
5-7 Byres Street, Newstead

For Spin Timetable and more info see:
www.studiorise.com.au

SPECIAL OFFER FOR BRSers - GET IN NOW
for the first 10 people to put a comment on our facebook page wins.....

a Studio Rise Prize of $20 for 3 premier spin classes - an absolute bargin to get you started

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brisbane-Australia/Brisbane-Run-Squad/101806529876753

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Key Updates & Rain Policy

2010-10-12T01:57:00.001-07:00

Recent Time Trials
BRS Time trials are one of the most critical ways that we as coaches get feedback on athlete performance, improvements, and training effectiveness...........
but more importantly it is the perfect tool for you to realise your improvements in performance, running efficiency and mental fitness. The more monitoring we do as runners, the greater ability we have to understand how we are going, what training is working for us as individuals, and where we need to improve.

Well done to everybody who completed the Beep Test last week and for the group that participated in the stair challenge. Some outstanding improvements and great benchmarks set for the first timers! Keep an eye on the http://www.brisbanerunsquad.com.au/TTResults.php page, as results will be updated this week.

Recent Uniform Order
Those of you who ordered a uniform with Matt recently will be please to know that Champ Systems will have them to use by Monday 25th October. So if you are participating in the Byron Run, you can proudly wear the blue and white!

Twilight 5.2km Early Bird closes in 3 days!
Get in quick and save money, only $20!
Thursday 4th November, 5pm
A fantastic mid week event around familiar territory, botanical gardens and Southbank.
Early Bird Closes: 15 October 2010, cost $20.00
Enter: http://www.pwc.com.au/events/coolnightclassic-brisbane/
Choose: I would like to search for an existing team
Search: Brisbane Run Squad

Updated Rain Policy
It looks like we are in for a rainy summer! So time to review and implement a BRS Rain Policy.
From today the Policy is
BRS training will be:
- ON regardless of rain
- Except if is EXTREME (e.g. thunder, lightening, torrential rain, hail, acid rain!)
- if training is cancelled due to extreme conditions, a twitter/facebook notification will be issued at 5pm
- if it is raining or has been raining extensively, the session will always be a long run on safe surfaces, rather than any hill or speed work. Remember the long runs are important to maintain our base aerobic fitness.
- if in doubt, sms Renae (0447 578 200) or Matt (0447 578 205) around 5pm

Mt Cootha Practice Run this Saturday!
This run is designed to put all your hill and aerobic base work into practice, introduce a new terrain and have some fun getting back to nature!!
When: Saturday 16 October, 2010
Time: 6:30am - 8am
Where: Mt Cootha off road trails
Meet: Slaughter Falls Car Park - near the public toilets on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, 1st left after Birdwood Terrace http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&sll=-27.474923,152.965908&sspn=0.028404,0.082912&ie=UTF8&hq=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&hnear=&ll=-27.471991,152.974234&spn=0.007101,0.020728&z=16
Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members
* all abilities welcome, beginners please join us for a modified version up to the summit lookout and back

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Mousdash is fast approaching

2010-10-05T04:11:00.000-07:00

Mousdash 2010

According to the organisers of the 2010 Mousdash 10.5km run

"The 10.5km Mousdash run course will test even the seasoned runner, but with a breathtaking, 360 degree vista awaiting every competitor, the pleasure will far outweigh the pain! "

OR for something a little less intense, this year for the first time there is a new option - The Courier-Mail 5km Summit Walk. Enjoy the stunning Brisbane Lookout views at a more leisurely pace and over a shorter distance.

When: Sunday 14 Movember, 2010

Where: Mt Cootha, Brisbane

What: 10.5km challenge or 5km summit walk

To enter: http://www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/mousdash-entry-form.html

In the Corporate Team Name: enter Brisbane Run Squad

Cost: $40 for 10.5km, $30 for 5km

Entries close Friday 12 Movember - no early bird discounts, or team discount

Enter now and participate for a great cause, "the Mousdash is your chance to donate more than just a little sweat to the Movember charity by raising funds and awareness for men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer and depression in men"

Mt Cootha Practice Run

This run is designed to put all your hill and aerobic base work into practice, introduce a new terrain and have some fun getting back to nature!!

When: Saturday 16 October, 2010
Time: 6:30am - 8am
Where: Mt Cootha off road trails

Meet: Slaughter Falls Car Park - near the public toilets on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, 1st left after Birdwood Terrace http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&sll=-27.474923,152.965908&sspn=0.028404,0.082912&ie=UTF8&hq=34+Sir+Samuel+Griffith+Drive,Mt+Cootha&hnear=&ll=-27.471991,152.974234&spn=0.007101,0.020728&z=16

Cost: $6 members, $8 non-members

* all abilities welcome, beginners please join us for a modified version up to the summit lookout and back.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

Our Collaboration Partners - Part 1 Mizuno!

2010-09-30T03:17:00.000-07:00

Our 2010/2011 Collaboration Partners-

working together in the health and fitness industry to benefit our local community

Brisbane Run Squad is proud to announce Mizuno as one of our of main collaboration partners for this year.

Mizuno specialise in running shoes - not only for different types of feet but different types of running.

Mizuno will be partnering with BRS to provide us with information on up to date, new and improved running shoe and clothing technology. http://www.mizuno.com.au/

But most importantly, they will be sponsoring us with Mizuno sports wear to give away to our members throughout the season as prizes and random draws..........so attending training just got a whole lot more FUN!

If you are looking to try Mizuno shoes, one of our favourite sponsors Active Stride (http://www.activestride.com.au/) has a large range of Mizuno shoes and professional advice on what is best for you oh and plus you get your member discount!

Thanks to Mizuno and we look forward to working together.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Weekend Wrap up & Upcoming Events

2010-09-18T17:44:00.001-07:00

Formula 10km/5km Wrap Up
Well done to all BRSers who took part in this morning's 10 or 5km Formula Run, we all raced for a great cause, men's cancer fund raising council. So many personal bests yet again! Big Congratulations to Nicole D 2nd female across the 5km line, and Michael, Jody, Sam, Michelle, Stacey, Lisa S, and Raj all producing great runs. Brock and Lauren smashed their Bridge to Brisbane times by up to 8mins and Jason came in under 40mins.

Congratulations to everybody who participated.

Byron Bay Lighthouse Run 10km, Sunday 31 October, 2010
http://www.byronrun.com/
Early Bird closes: 30 Sept, 2010
Enter: If you are a BRS member and you wish to enter to receive club discount email info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au by 28 Sept, so we can guarentee we get early bird + discount rates = $25.00

Cool Night Classic 5.2km, Thursday 4 November, 2010
5pm, a fantastic mid week event, 5.2km run around familiar territory, botanical gardens and Southbank.
Early Bird Closes: 15 October 2010, cost $20.00
Enter: http://www.pwc.com.au/events/coolnightclassic-brisbane/
Choose: I would like to search for an existing team
Search: Brisbane Run Squad

Mousdash 10.5km Mt Cootha Fun Run, Sunday 14 November, 2010 www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/our-events/the-mousdash.html
No Early bird applies, entries close Friday 12 November - Cost $40
Enter: www.weekendwarriorevents.com.au/mousdash-entry-form.html
in Corporate Team Name field enter Brisbane Run Squad

These are all BRS Club events, check the calendar for more details. A BRS Club event means that we will focus are training efforts on getting the squad prepared for these fun runs. Also it means that Matt and I will be present at each event for coaching and support. Sign up now!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Time Trial & Cool Night Classic

2010-09-16T04:17:00.000-07:00

Time Trial

Some absolutely awesome times from Monday night's 5km time trial.
Matt C cracked the 18min mark coming in at 17:45 (after a 100km ride on Sunday!)
Michelle W smashed 2mins off her PB as did Cindy Y.
Well done to the first timers to, you have set some great benchmarks for 3months time.

Cool Night Classic
The Cool Night Classic is a fantastic mid week event, 5.2km run around familiar territory, botanical gardens and Southbank.
Enter now as part of the BRS Team
When: Thursday 4 November
Time: 5pm followed by a Cool Down party with live music, food, and beverages available
What: 5.2km run
Enter: http://www.pwc.com.au/events/coolnightclassic-brisbane/
Choose: I would like to search for an existing team
Search: Brisbane Run Squad

Cost: $20.00 until 15 October, then $25 until 29 Oct, then $35

Entries are open now, so why not jump on-line and save yourself some money!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Formula Run Sunday Sept 19th

2010-09-07T23:10:00.000-07:00

The next club event
BRS will be taking part in is called the Formula Run. Hosted by Cancer Council Queensland and held during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, FORMULA RUN will raise valuable funds for research into men’s cancers while raising awareness of men’s health.

Where: Brisbane Botanical Gardens
When: Sunday 19th Sept 7am start (collect race packs on the day from 6am)
What: This sounds like a great race supporting some very important research. It is around The Botanical Gardens and then out Toowong bike path. It will be very familiar territory for us.
Cost: $35

If you would like to do the run log on to www.formularun.org.au and register. Registration closes on 16th Sept.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Happy First Birthday BRS!

2010-09-05T00:54:00.000-07:00

A BIG HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY TO BRISBANE RUN SQUAD AND OUR RUNNERS

Thanks to all our runners for a great night!

Looking forward to a great second year for BRS!

The photos have been added to facebook, check them out!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brisbane-Australia/Brisbane-Run-Squad/101806529876753

See you soon

Renae & Matt

Bridge to Brisbane - well done & recovery run

2010-08-29T04:59:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS

to all BRS Runners who participated in Brisbane's Biggest Fun Run today........the BRIDGE to BRISBANE -Well done!

Great to hear about the fantastic times and personal bests! All that hard work has payed off!

A few regular BRS runners are doing a recovery run at the Ship Inn, Monday 30 August 6pm if you would like to join them.

Rest up & recover and BRS sessions will resume on Monday 06 September 2010.

For all those attending our first Birthday party on Saturday 4 September, get your glad rags on and your thinking caps securely fastened for a night of trivia and tributes.

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

BRIDGE TO BRISBANE 1 sleep to go!

2010-08-28T00:48:00.001-07:00

Only 1 sleep to go and Brisbane's BIGGEST Fun Run is upon us.

After a hard 12months or 12 weeks of training it is time to put all that work into practice! I hope you have had a restful day with plenty of water and good food! Remember early to bed - early to rise!

A few Event Day Tips -

o a light warm up jog when you arrive, followed by dynamic stretching (as per B2B & BRS sessions)
o If possible, don’t run the event in a jumper, but take an old jumper with you that you are prepared to leave behind, that way you can stay warm up until the last minute
o At least 15mins before, join your race zone, or pace runner
o Pace runners are allocated for under 40mins, 45, 50, 55, 60, and 70mins. I would recommend finding a pace runner, the pacer and the following pack will help you get through the race!
o Don’t go out too hard, pace yourself, and we will see you at the finish line!!

REMEMBER it is a fun run........so have fun!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Bridge to Brisbane Count Down

2010-08-22T01:25:00.000-07:00

Only 7 sleeps until the Bridge to Brisbane 10km/5km Fun Run!

For many of you, this has been your goal for a long time, 12 weeks, 12months or even years!
So to help you prepare and make the most of the event on Sunday here are some pre-week tips and tricks.

This week is about exercise tapering and mental preparation

2-3 runs - 1-2 early in the week, 1 run on the Friday before of 20-30mins with 5 x 30sec medium to hard efforts (final leg tune up!)
If you usually do ‘pm’ runs, try to do 1-2 of your runs in the ‘am’ to get your body used to it to minimise shock on Sunday morning
Before your ‘am’ practice sessions, eat what you plan to eat before the event as stomach practice
Hydrate well – plenty of water all week *don’t leave it to Saturday to hydrate
Sleep – try to get at least 8 hours each night this week
Don’t do anything radically different – either exercise, food, or lifestyle

See you this week at BRS or Bridge to Brisbane sessions for our final training runs before Sunday.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

The Benefits of Massage

2010-08-18T04:53:00.000-07:00

"There are some things massage can't cure, but I can't think of many"

Here is a list of proven and documented benefits massage can have on the body:

Improves circulation

Provides relief from pain

Aids recovery from injury

Reduces Stress

Improves quality of sleep

Improves joint movement

Elevates mood

With all these benefits who wouldn't want a massage??????????

Matt's class at Q Academy is running a student clinic right now! Details below:

Where: 20 Chester St, Newstead
When: Mon - Thurs 9:30am - 4:30pm
Fri 9:30am - 12:30pm
Between the dates of 16 August to 10 September
Cost: Beware reading on, this may shock you-------------------Only $20.00 for 1 hour
Phone for bookings: 0413 710 520

So what are you waiting for, book now.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

B2B Reccy Run

2010-08-12T02:47:00.000-07:00

Bridge to Brisbane Reccy Run Sunday 15th August.

This is a reccy for the Bridge to Brisbane 10km fun run on Sunday 29 August.
We will meet at 3:30pm in Campbell street and catch maxi taxis to the other side of the Gateway Bridge to do a practice run of the 10km.
Obviously we won't be able to run along the ICB like in the race, but there is an alternative route.
RSVP to info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au by Wednesday 11 August for taxi booking purposes. Cost $8 per person including taxis.
For a map where we are meeting check out:
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=-27.447677,153.033993&spn=0.007636,0.019248&z=16

I'll book the cabs for 3:30pm so please try to be there abit earlier.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

BRS 1st Birthday Pary Saturday 4 September

2010-08-08T01:39:00.000-07:00

Party Time! BRS 1st Birthday

We will be 1 year old soon.

To celebrate we are having a massive "Trivia & Tributes" party.

Cost: $25 per person (family and friends welcome)

When: Saturday 4 September - Yes same night as River Fire so public transport would be a great option

Time: 6:30pm - 11pm

Where: The Ship Inn, Southbank, Upstairs function room.

What: Delicious canapes, trivia bonanza, prizes, awards, cash bar with discounted drinks and more (please note: running gear prohibited)

RSVP: by Monday 23 August to info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au (with numbers & dietary requirements) - payment details will be forwarded on RSVPs and must be made in full prior to the event

Can't wait!

Happy Running

Renae & Matt

What a Day!

2010-08-04T04:17:00.000-07:00

BIG Congratulations to the 27 BRSers young and younger who participated in the Brisbane Marathon Events over the weekend.

We had runners in most events starting with the 2km kids event on Saturday. Noah and Madison had yet another great race with Noah completing the race in less than 5min/kms! Well done.

We had 2 Marathon Runners, Matt C competing in his first EVER, smashing it in 3:01hrs. Sensational effort coming 2nd in his age-group. Steve H was a pacer for the marathon helping other in the field reach their goal! well done guys.

BRS Half Marathoners also had a great day on a tough, 'incliney' course. Well done Micheal K, Michael Y, Peter C, Darrell G, Melissa F, Scott G - Well done!

And our 10km runners also blitzed the course, as familiar to them as the back of their own hand!

Great performances by all! Special mention Sam Carpenter coming third in his category in a time of 52mins! Great stuff.

The photos have been uploaded to Picasa accesses via our homepage and facebook!

Join us on FACEBOOK

We have moved.....check out our new up to date facebook business site!

BRS has moved from a Group Facebook site to a Business site. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brisbane-Australia/Brisbane-Run-Squad/101806529876753

simply click on LIKE

This will enable us to keep you up to date with increased functionality, without you loosing the ability to talk to each other through our wall.

The new site is also linked automatically to TWITTER, so why not follow us on @BRStwitr and stay in the loop!

Happy Running

Your BRS coaches - Renae & Matt

Meeting Point Bris Marathon Festival this Sunday

2010-07-29T03:57:00.000-07:00

We will be meeting at the intersection of Russell Street Phwy and Grand Arbour, Southbank. Basically at the ferris wheel drink fountain area. Matt will get a good position around this area, so keep an eye open. We will be there from 5:30am. Active Stride are now using their tent for a weekend sale, so keep an eye out for us and not the tent.

http://maps.google.com.au/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=-27.47576,153.024659&spn=0.007634,0.019248&z=16

See you then,

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

This Weekend - Brisbane Marathon Festival Sunday 1 August

2010-07-28T03:50:00.000-07:00

Brisbane Marathon Festival is upon us! Great to see the enthusiasm in all our runners after a full-on season of training and racing! Some key bits of info for you:

Race Kit Collection
Location: South Bank Piazza, Little Stanley Street, South Bank
When:
Friday 30 July: 3pm - 7pm
Saturday 31 July: 9am - 4pm
Sunday 1 August: 5am - 8am

Race Start Times
Brisbane Half Marathon 6.00 am
Brisbane Marathon 6.15 am
Brisbane 10km Run / Walk 8.30 am
Presentations to Race Winners 10.30 am

Race Start and Finish Locations
All Sunday events start on Grey Street between Ernest and Glenelg streets outside
Flightcentre at South Bank.
http://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Grey+Street,+South+Brisbane,+Queensland&sll=-25.335448,135.745076&sspn=31.550333,78.837891&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Grey+St,+South+Brisbane+Queensland+4101&ll=-27.478378,153.021961&spn=0.000954,0.002406&z=19

Race briefing will be conducted 15 minutes before each event on the conservatory lawn in front of the Piazza. All events will finish down the arbour outside the piazza.
Course Maps are available: http://www.brisbanemarathon.com/gettinghere.asp

Tent Location
To Be Advised. Please check the blog on Friday.

Post Race Dinner
In line with our tradition, lets celebrate another I am sure successful event with Dinner at the Ship Inn after training, Monday 2 August, 7pm. Even if you are not coming to training, please come a long!

See you nice and early on Sunday......we will be there at 5:30am.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Budgeting for 2010/2011?????

2010-07-21T04:52:00.000-07:00

We all love a good budget. It's sticking to it that is the hard part.
Here are a few little reminders to get you started:

2010/2011 BRS Membership

Cost: $30 Individual. $50 Family
Includes:
Merchandise/Sponsors
BRS Uniforms Discounts we now offer Winter Jackets, Running Singlets, Running t-shirt, Tri-suits, Cycling Jerseys, Hats, and kids uniforms
Active Stride Specialist Running Store (www.activestride.com.au) 10% off purchases
The Ship Inn meal discounts anytime (www.theshipinn.com.au)
Injury Prevention & Rehab
RHP Physiotherapy (www.rhpphysiotherapy.com.au) $15 off initial physio consultation and injury prevention and recovery blogs
Matt Parry Remedial Massage Therapy Loyalty card (2nd massage 10% off, 6th massgae at half price)
BRS Coaching/Events
Casual Training Fees 25% off session prices (casual session $6 members, $8 non-members)
Race Discounts for Members only
Personal Program and Technique Analysis discounted for members
BRS Prize Packs & Draws access for members only
BRS Events/Camps discounted for members
Email updates and correspondance
+ Professional, friendly, expert training advice and support

Bridge To Brisbane Fun Run

Cost: $30 for 10km Run, $25 for 5km Run
When: 29 August 2010
What: Brisbanes biggest fun run (45,000 entries last year)
Entries close on 27 August 2010
www.bridgetobrisbane.com.au

BRS 1st Birthday Party

We will be 1 year old soon. To celebrate we are having a massive "Trivia & Tributes" party.
Cost: $25 per person (family and friends welcome)
When: Saturday 4 September
Time: 6:30pm - 11pm
Where: The Ship Inn, Southbank, Upstairs function room.
What: Delicious canapes, trivia bonanza, prizes, awards, cash bar with discounted drinks and more (please note: running gear prohibited)

Byron Bay Lighthouse Run

After popular demand, lets hit Byron Bay and smash out a run around its famous lighthouse.

Cost: $25 We are entering a BRS team, so please email us at info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au to let us know if you are interested and we will organise your entry.
When: Sunday 31 October 2010
What: 10km run, 8km walk. Known as the most scenic run in Australia. Don't forget to include the cost of accomodation in Byron Bay and dinner with the squad the night before the race.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Upcoming Race Info

2010-07-14T04:27:00.000-07:00

Byron Bay Event Sunday 31 October 2010
Last year one of our first BRS event was the Bryon Bay 10km Lighthouse Run.....so by popular demand, we will again make it our October BRS Club Event.

http://www.byronrun.com
When: Sunday 31 October
Where: Byron Bay
What: 8km Walk, 10km Run

This is the most scenic run in Australia!! Beginning at Byron Bay's Main Beach right next to the surf club and running straight up the road and around the Byron's iconic lighthouse. The run then takes you one kilometre along Tallows Beach and back before finishing back at the surf club

Please email info@brisbanerunsquad.com if you wish to enter as part of the BRS team as we are required to coordinate the BRS Team entries and you will receive a discounted entry.

Accommodation is selling fast. We are staying at the Atlantic Guesthouses 13 Marvell Street. I would suggest you book something soon, the YHA still has plenty of rooms, some private, some dorms.

Bridge to Brisbane 10km Practice Run Sunday 15 August

When: Sunday 15 August
Where: meet at 3:30pm in Campbell street, Bowen Hills
What: This is a reccy for the Bridge to Brisbane 10km fun run on Sunday 29 August. Obviously we won't be able to run along the ICB like in the race, but there is an alternative route. Having the 2nd Gateway bridge open for pedestrians will allow us to practice the gradient.

We will catch maxi taxis from Campbell Street to the south side of the Gateway Bridge to do the practice run of the 10km.

RSVP is necessary to info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au by Wednesday 11 August for taxi booking purposes. Cost $8 per person including taxis.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

2010/2011 Memberships

2010-07-11T03:42:00.000-07:00

Current 2009/2010 memberships were due to expire on 30 June 2010.
We have decided to extend these memberships until 31st July when our 2010/2011 memberships will commence.

New Memberships commence 1 August 2010 please go to the following address to renew your membership: http://www.brisbanerunsquad.com.au/Membership.php

What will it mean to be a BRS member in 2010/2011??
In our 2nd year of operation, we are aiming to offer our members more to reward them for committment and loyalty. So with your membership this year will come the following rewards:

Merchandise/Sponsors
BRS Uniforms Discounts we now offer Winter Jackets, Running Singlets, Running t-shirt, Tri-suits, Cycling Jerseys, Hats, and kids uniforms
Active Stride Specialist Running Store (www.activestride.com.au) 10% off purchases
The Ship Inn meal discounts anytime (www.theshipinn.com.au)

Injury Prevention & Rehab
RHP Physiotherapy (www.rhpphysiotherapy.com.au) $15 off initial physio consultation and injury prevention and recovery blogs
Matt Parry Remedial Massage Therapy Loyalty card (2nd massage 10% off, 6th massgae at half price)

BRS Coaching/Events
Casual Training Fees 25% off session prices (casual session $6 members, $8 non-members)
Race Discounts for Members only
Personal Program and Technique Analysis discounted for members
BRS Prize Packs & Draws access for members only
BRS Events/Camps discounted for members
Email updates and correspondance

+ Professional, friendly, expert training advice and support

If you have any questions, please email us at info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au or see us at training.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

CONGRATULATIONS - Gold Coast wrap up

2010-07-05T04:45:00.001-07:00

Gold Coast Marathon Festival Results
23 Brisbane Run Squad members competed in various events over the last weekend as part of the Gold Coast Marathon Festival........

OUTSTANDING results all round. A quick weekend wrap up

1. Marathon 42km
We had five BRS marathoners competing with three first timers, Matt S, Melissa, and Steve G with veterans Darrell G and Steve H also taking part. Our marathoners completed every last step of the 42 gruelling kilometers. Melissa was a stand out finishing her first marathon strongly in 3hrs 43mins.
Great stuff, enjoy the well deserved rest!

2. Half-Marathon 21km
Four BRSers competed in the 21km event at dawn, Sunday morning. All did fantastic times, with a few absolutely smashing their previous PBs.
Michael K took 14mins off his 2009 time for the same course.
Peter C smashed his time from earlier this year by 16mins!
Michael Y destroyed his previous PB beating it by 12mins!
Scott G had a great race coming in at 1hr 46 only a few seconds off his PB.

3. 10km
always our most popular event, we had 13 BRSers join us down the coast for the Saturday race. With perfect conditions, most BRSers ran in a new much-faster PB.
We have new additions to the under 60mins crew with Claire, Kathy and Deanne all coming in under the hour.
Katrina and Cindy both had awesome races, and Michelle and Lisa created their first 10km personal best, racing the 10km distance for the first time! well done.
Nicole, Col, and Shelley come in well under the hour with Nicole missing out by only 26secs to crack the 50mins mark.
Matt Cooper ran a great race, coming top 20 in his age group! Great stuff.

4. 5km
Sam C was out to smash his PB set at Doomben and he certainly succeeded coming in at 22.47, well done Sam

5. 2km dash
Maddison and Noah sprinted the 2km course in awesome style. Maddison ran 11min 21 and Noah just over 5min/km pace coming in at 10mins 30secs. Fantastic times for our BRS youngsters.

A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to everybody that participated. As coaches, we could not have asked for a better result and a better weekend all round (the new uniforms looked awesome!)

Enjoy a few days rest and we look forward to helping you to your next goal.
Our next club race is the Brisbane Marathon Festival on Sunday 1 August.

Register now as BRS and receive our 20% discount.
1. Visit the entry website:
http://www.streamlinedevents.com.au/categories.asp?cID=55&c=292010
Discount Voucher Code: s-0306102

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Meeting Places Gold Coast Marathon Festival

2010-06-30T04:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday 3rd July 10km event
We will meet at the North end of the Race Precinct where the tents are going to be situated on Sunday. Take a look at page 6 of your race pack for a good map (in the email they would have sent you) From there the spectators will be able to see the start line and watch the competitors coming into the finishing chute.

Sunday 4th July 42km, 21km & 5km
We will meet at the BTS (Brisbane Tri Squad) tent. It will be located at the North end of the Race precinct in the same location as above.

Sunday 4th July Lunch
Don't forget about our celebratory lunch at Cafe Riviera, 2 Marine Parade, Southport 12:30pm.

Good luck for the weekend see you there.

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Brisbane Running Festival 1st August 2010

2010-06-29T04:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday 1 August is the Brisbane Running Festival which features several events:
full marathon 42km
half marathon 21km
10km run/walk
3km run/walk
Kids races
The events all start from Southbank - so familiar territory for all of you.

If you have looked at the site: http://www.brisbanemarathon.com/ you will notice that the early bird finishes 30 June.

In Training who sponsor the event have offered to extend the early bird payment and offer BRS runners a 20% discount for our biggest team prize at the Twilight UQ event earlier this year.

To Enter and receive the discount:
1. Visit the entry website: http://www.streamlinedevents.com.au/categories.asp?cID=55&c=292010
2. Click on your preferred event
3. Check the details and 'add to my entry'
4. Step 1 of 4 - Entry of personal details
a) Team/Organisation Name = Brisbane Run Squad
b) Entry Transfer / Voucher Number enter s-306102 (with all characters & numbers)
Continue with your registration

It is going to be another great running event and a perfect hit out for you before the Bridge to Brisbane Fun Run at the end of August.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Count Down To Gold Coast Marathon Festival

2010-06-23T04:37:00.000-07:00

10 Days To Go
We are nearly there! Only 10 days until the Gold Coast Marathon Festival begins, where you can see all your training and hard work put into action. You have all been working extremely hard over the last few months so Matt and I have no doubt you will be fit and ready to go.

Thanks to all those who RSVPd to our post race celebration lunch at Cafe Riviera, 2 Marine Parade, Southport. If you have not yet RSVPd, please email info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au and let us know if you would like to come along.

Don't forget to eat well and stay hydrated over the next 10days to ensure you are in tip top condition, in particular drink plenty of water a few days before the event.

We will be picking up the race packs for everyone competing under the BRS team this Sunday 27 June. We will distribute them at Monday and Wednesday training next week.

Uniforms
Thanks to all of you who recently ordered uniforms. Our supplier has notified us that they will be express posted on Tuesday 29th June, so we should receive them on Thursday or Friday that week. We will bring the uniforms to the Gold Coast Marathon Festival and get them to you Friday night if you are down there then, or meet up with you on the Saturday.

Membership for 2010-2011 Year
When preparing your budget for the next financial year, don't forget to factor in your $30 BRS membership fee! Next membership year commences on July 1 2010 and we are planning some extra benefits for our BRS members, such as reduced session rates for members as our casual rates are going up @ 01 August 2010. Stay tuned for more details!!

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Key Updates

2010-06-16T05:10:00.001-07:00

State of Origin Sweep
Well done to all BRSers who turned up to training tonight and then rushed home to watch the second State of Origin blitz!
I am pleased to announce the result of our little sweep tonight:
nobody predicted the mamouth win on the part of the Queenslanders, with the highest QLD score predicted by you to be 28 - yee of little faith! Michelle Wood is the clear winner, predicting both the highest score and biggest difference! Well done Michelle!

BRS Ultimate Runners Pack
Don't forget about the opportunity to win the Ultimate Runners Pack.
The Ultimate Runners Pack – valued at over $400 includes

Pair of Mizuno Running Shoes
Pair of Run Performance ‘X-Socks’
BRS Uniform (a running shirt or singlet)
Active Stride Running cap
Pure Sport – 850g Hydration Powder
One month unlimited BRS sessions

To go into the draw to win the Ultimate Runners pack – you must: Attend at least 20 BRS sessions between 31 May – 29 August, Be a BRS member by the time of drawing, and sign on at each session. THANKS to our sponsors - www.activestride.com.au at Southbank.

With 6 sessions down and 20 to go, you are all still in with a chance to win!

Save the Date - Saturday 4 September
In September, BRS will be 1 Year OLD!!! To celebrate we are having a BRS birthday party.
Please save the date! More details coming soon.

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Results and What Coming UP!

2010-06-09T23:49:00.000-07:00

Queensland Half Marathon
Sunday 6th June saw 15 Brs'ers competing in kids races, 5km, 10km and 21km events with some excellent results.

Some to mention are Matt Cooper running 1:26:06 for the half marathon and finishing 15th overall and 3rd in his catogory. Melissa Ferrara came in at 1:42:04 for the half marathon finishing 6th in her category. Scott Gallen competing in his first half marathon brought it home in 1:46:04, great effort Scott on your first 21Km.

Sam Carpenter has been focusing on the 5km events at training over the past few weeks and ran this race on Sunday. He did it in 24:14, finishing 2nd in his catogory. Awesome!

Well done to everyone else who competed, there were certainly alot of smiles at the end of that event.

Monday Public Holiday Training
This Monday 14th June will be a public holiday. Training will begin EARLIER on this day. Starting at 4:00pm. Duration 1.5hours - a longer endurance run. Don't worry we won't be running constantly for 1.5hours!

State of Origin
Next Wednesday 16th June will be NRL State Of Origin. This is just a quick reminder to be aware of increased traffic conditions on this night. Might want to leave 15 mins earlier. GO QUEENSLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Remember, your attendance at BRS is needed if you want to go into the draw for the Ultimate Runners pack!

Lunch After Gold Coast Marathon 4 July
To celebrate the achievements at the GCM we have booked lunch at Cafe Riviera on Sunday 4th July (after the marathon finishes) at 12:30pm. We would love for everyone to join us and bring along family and friends.
To enable us to book lunch and notify the cafe, everyone who is interested can you please RSVP to info@brisbanerunsquad.com.au by Sunday 20th June.
We have organised a set menu. 2 courses for $20 including a glass of wine. (e.g. Bruschetta for entree, and ricotta and spinach cannelloni, Bug tail salad, or an eye fillet steak!) Kids meals will be available.
Hope everyone can join us.

Happy Running
Renae and Matt

Ultimate Runners Pack & Race Updates

2010-06-02T04:07:00.000-07:00

BRS Ultimate Runners Pack

To encourage our BRS runners to be fitter, stronger and more confident for the 2010 Bridge to Brisbane Run, we are offering our members the opportunity to win the Ultimate Runners Pack.

The Ultimate Runners Pack – valued at over $400 includes
· Pair of Mizuno Running Shoes
· Pair of Run Performance ‘X-Socks’
· BRS Uniform (a running shirt or singlet)
· Active Stride Running cap
· Pure Sport – 850g Hydration Powder
· One month unlimited BRS sessions

To go into the draw to win the Ultimate Runners pack – you must:
· Attend at least 20 BRS sessions between 31 May – 29 August
· Be a BRS member by the time of drawing, 4 Sept at the BRS 1st birthday party
· Sign on at each session

Thanks to our sponsor Active Stride.

Noosa Winter Festival

A big congratulations to all BRS runners who competed in the Noosa Winter Festival. From all accounts it was a fantastic weekend and sporting heaven with running, swimming, and cycling events all in one weekend!

Doomben Half Marathon Festival this Sunday 6 June 2010

For those competing this weekend, don't forget to grab your race packs:

from The Run Inn, 339 Wardell St, Enoggera
Thursday 3rd June 11am-5pm
Friday 4th June 10am-5pm
Saturday 5th June 9am-3pm
or on Sunday 6th June at
Doomben Racecourse from 5am until each race starts

Start Times

7.00am Distance: 21.1km (2 laps) (3 hr cut off time due to road closure and openingtimes).
7.20am Distance: 10km (A fast out and back course with no traffic problems)
8.30am Distance: 5km (A flat out and back course recommended for kids and runners with prams.)
9.30am Distance: 2.2km Fun Walk - One lap of Doomben Racecourse

Parking

Free parking will be available inside Doomben Racecourse. The entry to the parking area is off Hampden Street. Please remember if you leaving early please park in the streets around Doomben, as you will be unable to exit from the car park whilst the race is still in progress.

We will be there from 6am - please keep an eye out for the blue and white uniforms.

Gold Coast 3-4 July 2010

Team entries have closed for the Gold Coast Marathon Festival. We have paid for the 25 BRSers who entered the team and received the 10% discount. We will provide you with an invoice at training. Individual entries are still open - No entries, transfers or race changes after 8pm Friday 2 July 2010.

Race Kit Collection:
The Gold Coast Marathon event organisors have advised us they will be in contact with us soon to organise the team kit collection pick up appointments. Therefore, you will not need to individually collect your race kit. We will keep you posted with times etc.

Bridge to Brisbane Race Entry
Entries for the Sunday Mail Bridge to Brisbane Run run are now open.
We have created a Brisbane Run Squad Team. To register as a BRS runner, please use the below instructions:
1. www.bridgetobrisbane.com.au
2. click Enter Now
3. Register as a First Time User - or use your details from 2009
4. click on Competitor Registration
5. click on Join Existing Team - Team number = 85069 (for 10km) OR 48196 (for 5km)
6. follow prompts to complete registration

Happy Running!
Renae & Matt

The Weekend Gone & Upcoming Events

2010-05-19T04:08:00.000-07:00

Red Run Results 16 Sunday June
A BIG Congratulations to all the BRS Runners who completed the 5km or 10km Haemophilia Red Run last Sunday. Some outstanding results for a great cause.

10km
Matt C came 1st in the Male 10km, smashing it in 37.44mins! Great stuff and he won an amazing prize pack for his efforts! Well done!
Scott G who has been wanting to get under 50mins for the 10km, blitzed it, coming in at 46.23mins! wowo, great work.
Shelley's goal was under 55mins for the 10km, and she did a PB finishing in 53.26!
Emma P completed her first 10km since the Bridge to Brisbane last year and I quote 'I really enjoyed it!" Watch out B2B this year!
Congratulations to everybody who completed the 10km run!
5km
A very close finish between our star 5km BRS ladies, Lisa and Karen. Karen just pipping Lisa at the post, with both coming in well under the 30mins mark! Well done!
Our youngest BRS member, Sam C smashed the 5km run crossing the line in 25.28mins! Great work Sam.
Congratulations to all our 5km runners !

Gold Coast & QLD (Doomben) Events
Gold Coast:
We have registered a Brisbane Run Squad Team for the Gold Coast Event - which means if you join as a BRS runner you will receive: • A 10% discount on your entry fee - ONLY if we get 20 participants (currently 13).

If you are planning on doing any events at the Gold Coast Marathon Festival, please enter by Tuesday 1 June - to enable us to pay for all members to receive the 10% discount before the Wed cut-off.

Please see Blog dated 19 April for entry instructions.

QLD 1/2 Marathon - Doomben Event
The Doomben event on Sunday 6 June caters for 5km, 10km, and 1/2 marathon runners. A great lead up to the Gold Coast events for those of you planning to do the half or full marathon.
Entry prices differ for the 3 events (21, 10, 5). Enter by 31 May as entries after this incur a late fee of $20.
To enter as a BRS Runner, please search for Brisbane Run Squad and the password is renae. You don't need to enter a division.

Bridge to Brisbane 2010
We are pleased to announce that Brisbane Run Squad will be coaching the community Bridge to Brisbane training sessions (Tues PM, Thurs PM, Sat AM) for the twelve weeks leading up to the event. Our Monday and Wednesday BRS sessions will continue as normal.

With only 13weeks til the event........we are planning on an incentive to get BRSers more committed, fitter, and stronger for Brisbane's premier event. See Blog on Sunday 30 May for more details and keep an eye out for flyers at training.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Key Updates

2010-05-14T04:07:00.000-07:00

Post Red Run Dinner

To celebrate our first Club Event for the 2010 running season we have booked a table at The Ship Inn for dinner and drinks following Monday nights training session. Even if you don't attend the session or didn't compete in the Red Run on Sunday, please join us anyway.
Details:
When: Monday 17th May 2010, 7pm
Where: The Ship Inn Southbank
What: Post race dinner and drinks.

P.S. Don't forget a change of clothes and a jumper as we will be in the beer garden.

Post Race Recovery

Please see the article below written by Vaughen Nicolson from our Sponsor RHP Physiotherapy.
www.rhpphysiotherapy.com.au (locations - Kelvin Grove & Corinda)

Recovery after Completion
As you head into competition season it is important that you recover well from each race to ensure your training can continue with minimal interuption. The following tips will help to reduce the intensity of any post race soreness and allow you to return to normal training as soon as possible. The following are a general guide only, if you have prolonged (>3-4days) pain or soreness after racing get in touch with your physiotherapist.

1. Adequate Warm-down
Even if you collapse in a heap at the end your race its vital that you pick yourself back up and do a gentle warm down that includes at least 10mins of gentle jogging or walking and plenty of stretching. Get a recovery massage after your warm down if available at the event.

2. Hydration
Fluid lose will vary from person to person and will vary depending on race distance. The following is a guideline for rehydration post race: drink 500ml of water immediately after the race then consume 1L per hour for at least a few hours after that (combination of sports drink and water). The sports drink should have between 4-8grams of carbohydrate per 100ml.

3. Activity the next day
Although you may not feel like it, exercising the day after a race is very important to help remove waste products such as lactic acid and to get the lower limbs mobile again. 30 minutes of low intensity exercise such as swimming/walking and jogging in the water, brisk walking, light jogging or cycling are your best options. Following this exercise ensure you do 10-15mins of light stretching.

4. Compression
If you have 'skins' or similar compression garments wear them all day (even to bed!) for at least 48hours post race. The compression helps to reduce local swelling and can aid in muscle recovery.

5. Contrast Bathing
Contrast bathing is where you alternate between cold and hot baths/showers to aid in the removal of lactic acid and promote blood flow to working muscles. The best method of contrast bathing is still debatable but a safe guideline is:
Cold (10-16 degrees c) shower for 30-60secs followed by hot/warm (35-37 degrees c) shower for 1-2mins. Repeat 3-4times always starting and ending with cold shower.

Thanks Vaughan.

Gold Coast Team Discount CLOSES WED 2 JUNE

Please note that discounted team entries close on Wednesday 2 June. After this date, you will be longer able to join as BRS and claim the discount. Also, we need at least 20runners to receive the discount, we are currently at 13.

If you are planning on doing any events at the Gold Coast Marathon Festival, please enter by Tuesday 1 June - to enable us to pay for all members before the Wed cut-off.

Happy Running
Renae & Matt

Time Trial & Red Run this Sunday

2010-05-11T03:44:00.000-07:00

Time Trial Results
A big congratulations to everybody who completed the 5km time trial last night.
It was extremely pleasing to see so many personal bests and smiles as you ran over the line.
Nine BRSers participated in the 5km time trial for the first time with great results. 13 regulars achieved personal bests which is an indication that all your hard work is paying off!

PBs go to:
Matt S, Ben Y, Michael K, Steve G, Shelley J, Michael C, Sally, Sam M, Anita, Deanne, Michelle W, Emma P, Katrina.
Special mention to Michael Cusack who smashed his personal best by 3mins & 30secs! Well Done.

Red Run this Sunday 16 May
Our first club event for the running season, is the Haemophilia Foundation Queensland's Red Run 5km and 10km event. Places are still available if you haven't yet registered:
www.haemophilia.org.au/redrunclassic
For those of you who ticked the box to collect your race packs on Saturday, don't forget to pick them up from In Training at Milton between 10am-2pm

Race Details:
Date: Sunday 16 May, 2010
When: Race start 7:30am (Rego for those who don't pick up race packs Saturday- 6am)
Where: Meet at New Farm Park near the Rotunda (keep an eye out for the BRS blues!)
What: a 5km or 10km 'flat' run - a great way to start the season!

Our sponsor, RHP's Vaughan Nicolson has put together a 'Recovery After Competition Blog'
Keep your eye on our blog as I will post it at the end of the week!
All the Tips and Tricks to a speedy post race recovery!

Happy Running
Renae & Matt