Nikewomen NFR Blog

Pink Links

JamieErdahl — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:10:30 GMT

It looked like your typical clubhouse at a country club. It was a gorgeous Monday afternoon and about eight men were enjoying the weather and cold beverages on a deck after playing a rigorous 18 holes of golf. Roaming around nicely decorated tables, this group of well dressed gentlemen would soon be joined by the rest of the people playing golf that day. But the one thing that brought all of these people together? It could be the fact that they were all wearing pink... but also, they were supporting a common cause.

The event was the 4th Annual Pink Links Open in Reston, VA. The Mid-Atlantic Affiliate of the Network of Strength hosted the tournament. There were about 100 golfers, both male and female – eight of who were survivors. There was an incredible atmosphere present that day. Groups of people from small companies in the area supporting breast cancer any way they could.

After the foursomes were done playing golf, everyone got cleaned up to have dinner. Their night would be spent chatting about local support services that their time and financial support from that day would end up benefiting. Things like the 24 /7 hotline that the Network of Strength provides, available to anyone who is struggling with breast cancer.

The most moving of scenes I witnessed that day was the 18th hole. As you approached the final hole, the sidewalk was lined with flags representing someone who had lost their battle with this terrible cancer. Not only was the event benefiting the future of knowledge and strength regarding breast cancerbut also the people involved took the time to recognize those who lost the battle.

It was one beautiful day of golf devoted to a beautiful common cause… the Breast Cancer Network of Strength.

-Jamie Erdahl

Little Trike Hundred

KatieOsborne — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 22:15:32 GMT

Have you ever stopped to think what it would be like if bicycles were really tricycles instead? Do you think having that one extra wheel would make it easier or harder to ride? The Little Trike Hundred in Bloomington, Indiana is a philanthropic event put on to raise money for CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates. Participants in the race were able to put that question to the test and to find out if it is easier or harder to ride tricycles, while having fun and raising money for a great purpose.

This tricycle race is unlike any other cycle race. The Little Trike Hundred is based off of a college bike race called the Little 500, which was created to mimic the racecar race, the Indianapolis 500. The Little Trike Hundred is held on a cul-de-sac using adult size tricycles for the competition. Teams are compromised of all different groups of people in the community, whether they are from Greek houses, dormitories or other organizations that want to participate.

To add a little more excitement to the competition, each team has the option to “theme up” their team for the best costume contest. The teams cover a distance of approximately 50 yards for a quick 180-degree turn around and ride back to the start/finish line. This year, there was three times the number of participants and teams compared to last year, raising over $2,500 for CASA. Not only is this competition fun, but it is also great knowing that when you are having fun participating, you are also helping others. The beneficiary, CASA, is an organization that places volunteers with kids to help advocate and support in legal issues when the kids do not have the means for the assistance. It was amazing to know a check will be written to CASA to help those who need it.

To answer the question, does having that extra wheel make it more difficult to ride? In my opinion, the answer is yes! When originally looking at the tricycle, I thought that it would make for an easy ride because, duh, there is an extra wheel, but after my own experience, I would have to say that is not the case. The placement of the wheels on the tricycle made it more difficult to turn, especially when under pressure with people cheering to win. It is fun to participate in events that are different than others, especially when it is for a good cause and even more enticing when the winners receive the infamous “Golden Tricycle.”

-Katie Osborne

Abby Wambach: Broken Bone's Won't Stop Her

KelleyFerro — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:45:29 GMT

"I'm always struck by the irony that it's the things you don't achieve that push you to try harder," says U.S. National Soccer star Abby Wambach during our chat at Niketown in midtown Manhattan. Abby had jetted from L.A. only a few hours earlier, and here she was, with teammate Lindsay Tarpley, ready to speak to a crowd of 120 young girl soccer players about being a female athlete. Between bites of her sandwich, Abby gave us her thoughts on recovery, GameChangers, and what it takes to be a soccer superstar.

The crowning moment of Abby's athletic career was, as you might guess, winning the gold medal in Athens. "It was pretty cool," she admits. But her mistakes are what has made her run faster, practice harder, and get better. This determined attitude has led Abby to become one of the world's top female athletes, with 99 goals under her belt and two gold medals. Her determined spirit has taught her how to overcome obstacles, particularly the one she faced this past July.

Just weeks before Abby was to board a plane bound for the Beijing games, a collision shattered her leg in two places. Beijing was out. "In one second, everything changed—everything flip-flopped," she says. Despite that harsh realization, Abby has still managed to find the silver lining.

"My leg injury was devastating, but it just added fuel to the fire. It made me realize it's not about me. It's about us. And I can't complain, we still won a gold medal."

Abby has always been a talented athlete, but while growing up, she had no idea that it was even possible for a female to become a pro soccer player. It wasn't until the greats came along, like Mia and Brandy, that she realized professional soccer was a possibility. She had no idea that she'd eventually be playing alongside them, as one of the greats herself.

"The life of a professional is 'Go, go, go!' It's at such a crazy pace but it feels normal when you are in it." During her recovery period, Abby's been able to take a step back, and discover the changes she needs to make in order to make her life and career more sustainable.

"These past four months have been the longest time not playing soccer in my life!" she says. So what does a soccer star do now that she can't be kicking balls? Abby finds safe ways to remain active, like swimming, biking and other non-impact sports. She's also recently joined on as one of the guest judges of Nike's GameChangers competition. GameChangers invites applicants to nominate those who are "changing the game" for women in sports.

"I really grow as a person when I read those stories," Abby says, referring to the inspiring applicants who have been sharing their contributions to social change. She is excited for all the great entrants and hopes the competition will benefit not just the finalists, but all the nominees by giving them the opportunity to get their message heard.

In the next two to three months, Abby hopes to be back on the field, gearing up for her next challenge, the 2011 World Cup. With Abby's fierce determination, goalies don't stand a chance.

For more information on GameChangers, or to nominate someone whom you feel is "changing the game" for women in sports, check out: Nikewomen.com

-Kelley Ferro

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE

meghanbrennan — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:17:34 GMT

What if music were banned from sporting events? Would pro baseball players sing as they approached their next at bat? Would a high school basketball squad hum during state championship warm ups? Sports without music is like Batman without his Robin or peanut butter without the jelly. One simply isn't the same without the other.

For a full week Manhattan's lower east side was home to over 1,000 bands. With a love for music and a passion for sports I jetted to New York City on a quest for new tunes to add to my "pre-game" play list. There I attended the CMJ Music Marathon and had the best seat in the house.

My golden ticket for the week hung from a lanyard around my neck. It read NFR PRESS - MEGHAN BRENNAN. One flash and I was sitting in on closed sound checks and backstage with the bands. Each day started with an artist one on one and ended front row at their show.

I left New York with an overflowing Ipod and an itch to get to the gym. There's nothing better than fresh set of songs to amp up your mileage on the treadmill. But don't worry; I'm not the only one who will reap the benefits of my seven-day serenade. Twice a month we will release a free download for your listening pleasure.

So pop in your ear buds and turn it up. It about time you got an up close and personal all access pass.

-Meghan

PLAY LIKE A GIRL

LaurenBrill — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 01:17:32 GMT

I hold my head up high because I am a female athlete. Recently, I attended the ProFastpitch X-treme Tour in Clermont, Florida, which is where professional softball players help amateurs to improve their game through a weekend softball clinic. Whether I was watching professionals swing a bat or amateurs catch a fly ball, I realized that this was our turf. But after talking to many of the girls about the obstacles they face as female athletes, I was disappointed that most felt they don't receive the respect they deserve from their male counterparts.

I heard complaints like, "They don't think we are as strong or as fast" or "They think we'd be better off as cheerleaders" (which, by the way, requires a lot of athleticism). There is no question that men and women have different strengths. Often, women's team sports have more finesse and incorporate more teamwork. Even though we are different, we are still equal. Most wild animals are faster than boys, but do you see us telling men to clear the field for four-legged creatures? No, because wild animals are wild animals, boys are boys, and girls are girls. Girls don't want to be compared, we want to be appreciated! Like many female athletes around the world, the young women I met at the PFX Tour event are passionate about sports, dedicated to the game, and tremendously athletic. So as female athletes continue to excel at their sports, they must stand up to the cynics who only dream that they could PLAY LIKE GIRLS!

-Lauren Brill

Drumstick Dash

KatieOsborne — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:47:05 GMT

"Move your feet so others can eat!" That was the theme for many people this Thanksgiving in Indianapolis, Indiana at the sixth annual Drumstick Dash. The Drumstick Dash is an event held on Thanksgiving morning that raises money for Wheeler Mission, an organization that feeds and houses thousands of hungry men, women and children in the Indianapolis area. Getting a chance to run while raising money for those in need was definitely a welcome addition to my holiday.

First, it is great knowing that you are helping others enjoy a home-cooked Thanksgiving meal Without the help of Wheeler Mission and the Drumstick Dash, they wouldn't have that luxury. Second, it is nice knowing you can eat that extra helping of mashed potatoes, gravy and pumpkin pie because you got a good workout in before the meal.

The Drumstick Dash is a 2.6 mile or 4.5 mile race, depending on how far you want to go. It was an extremely kid-friendly event and race. Prizes were awarded to the best costumes in the crowd. There were so many cute turkey and pilgrim costumes on people both young and old! Even more exciting was a contest to see who could catch a turkey that was released 10 seconds prior to the start of the race. Let me tell you, that was one fast turkey!

After the race, everyone was welcomed to an area with live music, little kid races and rock climbing walls. Knowing that I was giving my time and energy to help make someone else's Thanksgiving more memorable made this holiday extremely worthwhile. Plus, who could forget chasing after a turkey? That opportunity does not come around very often and I am very happy to have been able to participate in such an event!

-Katie Osborne

Turkey Trot=Extra Slice of Pie!

AshleyKoehn — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 20:18:51 GMT

The Koehn family thanksgiving dinner serves enough turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, green beans, stuffing, rolls, pie and cranberry sauce to feed a party of fifty (yet our family is only a mere 18 people). This over-indulgence tradition has trained my body to wear a loose-fitting dress and watch three hours of football to allow my food to digest. Yet this year, I decided to help my cause and begin a new Thanksgiving tradition prior to the ultimate feast: The Turkey Trot.

My younger sister and I woke up early Thanksgiving morning to sub-freezing temperatures in the bitter Wisconsin cold. Luckily for us, our new NIKE pro-fit fleece lined spandex pants assisted in keeping our legs shielded from the cold! Nonetheless, with an inch of snow on the ground to accompany our run - we ran the 2-mile turkey trot through Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Within the first three minutes, our frozen bodies warmed up and we keep a great stride to the finish! At the finish, we received mini pumpkin pies and long-sleeve tees!

"Turkey Trot" races are gaining in popularity ladies! I'm sure there was a race close to your hometown! Not only is the race a great activity for your entire family, as many races have run or walk options, it also allows that second helping of grandma's turkey to digest a little easier. In addition, the funds raced for many Turkey Trot races benefit local charities and/or organizations. My sister and I are already trying to convince our parents to "train" and run the 2 or 5-mile next year!

So trot to your health! (or a justification to another slice of pie )

-Ashley Koehn

ANYTHING BUT COMMON

meghanbrennan — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:04:12 GMT

Turn on your TV; you can see him in holiday ads. Go to the movie theatre; he shows up in trailers and in Academy Award nominated flicks. Book store, he's there too, in the pages of children's book and in the tracks of several hip-hop albums. A multi platinum selling artist, actor, writer and entrepreneur he is the definition of a Renaissance man. And while you may know him as Common - I can assure you he is anything but.

Last Friday hundreds of fans awaited the opening of the new House of Hoops store in North Riverside Mall. The event featured exclusive Nike Inc basketball kicks (including Jordan Brand and Lebron James sneaks), appearances by several Chicago Bulls, Indiana Fever's Tamika Catchings and last but not least a Common show. It was a store opening, high school basketball kickoff extravaganza, executed the only way Nike knows how,extraordinarily.

Past the welcoming committee of police officers and security guards was a frenzy of media and Foot Locker employees. As I admired the freshly painted lines and shiny finish of the store's half basketball court, I ran smack into something blocking the lane. I glanced up to find myself face-to-elbow with Drew Gooden, under the rim.Irony, enter here.

"Backstage" (a storage room converted with couches, buffet tables and a House of Hoops backdrop) I interviewed Common. The Southside, Chicago native burst onto the hip hop scene in the early nineties but is today, a far cry from the "fast paced, trash talking," lyricist he once was. Now, a “mature master of rhyme," Common focuses his efforts on representing"hip hop's potential for growth." When asked about the importance of hip-hop on the basketball community he replied; "Ball players and rappers come from the same place, we are each other. Growing up most kids wanted to be one of two things: a ball player or rapper."

Back in 1984 this aspiring ball player and artist could be seen rubbing elbows with the Bulls as a ball boy. Twenty-four years later he can be seen in every media outlet available. One may have guessed back in sixth grade, when he was known as Lonnie Rashied Lynn, he would someday be anything but common.

-Meghan

Walkin' It Out

AnnaYoungquist — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:29:14 GMT

It was a blustery New England morning. Bundled up in my Nike gear, I drove up to Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, CT to join over 4,000 walkers in the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. Teams of survivors, families and friends rallied together at the park overlooking Long Island Sound to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and education. The blue sky and bright orange leaves set the perfect autumn scene for the 5K walk. As I was standing in the registration line, I couldn't help but be awestruck as I looked across the sea of participants with their proud displays of pink, realizing the impact that breast cancer has had in each of these individuals' lives. I joined the ladies of Delta Gamma Phi behind the starting line. I asked them what their inspiration was for participating in the walk and was introduced to member Jessica Terranova and her mother Kimberly “Mim" Gay of Stratford, CT. Every year Mim participates in the walk and said that it was a good feeling to have her daughter and the sorority sisters walk alongside her. First diagnosed with cancer in September 2001, Mim is a true example of incredible courage and strength. With four diagnoses since her initial diagnosis and a 12 tumor discovery this past March, Mim perseveres with her positive outlook and is certainly an inspiration to us all. As I left the park that day, I walked away with a renewed sense of hope. It is walks like these that bring us one step closer to a cure. Mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, cousins, friends, neighbors - chances are someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. For more information on how you can participate in a walk, visit www.cancer.org/stridesonline .

-Anna Youngquist

Places to go, Women to See...

TaraTrainor — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:35:23 GMT

Looking for a new way to spend the day in the city with your friends and family? The Sports Museum of America located in the heart of Lower Manhattan, is a celebration of sports: the heroes, the teams, the fans, and the triumphs - from the greatest legends to the stars of today.

The unique experience of visiting the museum is further enhanced by the Billie Jean King International Women's Sports Center, which includes the first and only, hall of fame dedicated specifically to showcasing the amazing athletes and pioneers who have paved the way for the growth of women's sports. The Gallery offers interactive exhibits, educational databases, and several pieces of high profile memorabilia, all highlighting female accomplishments and their impact on the story of sports in America. Interesting women's memorabilia includes a report card from Billie Jean King's youth, a Kristi Yamaguchi ice skating costume, and the NIKE sports bra Brandy Chastain was wearing when she took off her shirt in victory, after scoring the winning penalty kick in the 1999 Women's Soccer World Cup. GO NIKE!

The Women's wing is not the only place to celebrate our achievements. I got a chance to speak with museum founder Philip Schwalb, and he deliberately designed each gallery with a 50/50 mix of men and women athletes. Here at the NFR Program, we are excited to see that we are being put on the same level as the men. Philip also mentioned a must see movie in the museum titled, “Breaking Barriers." The movie stresses the struggles that women athletes have overcome on their way to success.

As if this museum wasn't cool enough already, they often hold special events for the public. Recently, the Museum called all sports fans to come out and meet Jessica Mendoza and the USA Women's Softball Team. Eager fans got the chance to chat with and get autographs their favorite players.

Located at the Corner of 26 Broadway and Beaver Street, the museum is open 365 days a year, seven days a week. Tickets are reasonably priced, while they offer discounts for students, kids, and seniors, as well as a family plans and group sales. The location makes it easy to get to by a variety of subway and bus lines, plus the museum features premium catering and a retail department.

Plan your trip today, and let the museum surround you with heroes, triumphs, and some of the most uplifting stories in all of sports.

For further information you can contact the Sports Museum of America at 212-747-0900, or visit them on the web at www.sportsmuseum.com

-Tara Trainor

CALLING ALL POTATO SACK & THREE LEGGED RACE CHAMPS

meghanbrennan — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:35:22 GMT

Think back to elementary school. What was the most exciting day of the year? Ok 2nd most exciting day, the last day of school pretty much takes the cake. Think tug-o-war and water balloon toss. No question about it - FIELD DAY!

Field Day at my school meant free dress, (we wore uniforms) killer paper plate awards and best of all, bragging rights. Dominating in three plus events, secured your place in lunchroom gossip for at least a week. Field Day champions were crowned king and queen of the elementary school hierarchy. It should come as no surprise to those who know me; I was on a quest for the throne every year.

Sadly, as time progresses, Field Day is buried at the bottom of life's lost and found. It lays to rest somewhere between recess and lone gym socks. That is, until now. Royal Highness's of Field Day let me introduce you to the event, which “embraces all things people with A.D.D. love." They call it the Chicago Urbanathlon.

Let's start with the basics. It's a race. No, it's an obstacle course. Let's call it a racestacle rourse. Ten miles of taxi jumping, monkey bar hanging, covert crawling fun. Tracked by a time chip tied to their laces, the 3000 urbanathletes climbed the upper deck of Soldier Field three times, before heading to the finish line at Grant Park.

The event concluded with adult juice boxes and paperless awards. Top athletes left the rascestacle rourse anticipating Monday's lunch hour in the corporate America cafeteria. For a few hours on a Sunday morning, everyone re- lived the 2nd most anticipated day in 5th grade history.

For now I'll let them bask in their glory. But Chicagoans beware, next year I'm coming to reclaim my title and let my legacy of Field Day domination live on.

-Meghan

26.2 Miles Later: My body hurt...but it never felt better

AshleyKoehn — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:45:05 GMT

My quadriceps were burning. My feet were numb. My heart was racing. I literally peed my spandex just one mile prior. And yet,I had never felt better crossing the finish line of the 2008 Chicago Marathon.

26.2 miles earlier...it was a beautiful morning as 45,000 runners and 1.5 million spectators took the stage to run (or witness) a race that only 1 percent of the American population has accomplished. The streets were shut down,the beverages were stacked in rows, and the excitement (and nerves) were in the air. My girlfriends and I were dressed in NIKE spandex and had bright yellow name tags attached to our green tank tops. I highly recommended wearing a nametag if you ever run a marathon. When else will you ever have 1.5 million people cheering your name!? We walked slowly toward the start line – stretched, tied our shoes one last time, and said a quick prayer. The gun went off...and we never looked back.

The next 26.2 miles was literally a tour of the city – yet adorned with rows of people cheering, blow horns and cow bells ringing, neon posters, drag queens, Chinese dragons, and more encouragement than one could ever ask for. Sure beats the double-decker bus tours! Miles 1 through 22 felt great. I felt strong, my stride was long, my breathing was ideal and I was on 9-minute mile pace. The adrenaline in my muscles roared through each new neighborhood. As I rounded the corner to mile 20, I could hear great music and a crowd of people cheering; it was the NIKE cheer section! It definitely game me a boost of energy! And then, 2 miles later (mile 22) I hit a wall. My legs cramped and the crowds felt as through they were pressing in on the runners. No water, Gu, or banana could ease the pain. Luckily, one of my best friends was next to me and we were bound and determined to finish under 4 hours. 'We got it! Only 4 more miles! We’ll keep this pace!' we said to each other. The race had become a mind game. I had to block-out the pain and let my mind do the running.

The last 800 meters was a steady uphill. I turned the corner and never thought a red banner reading 'FINISH' could look so motivating. Throwing our arms up in the air, my friends and I finally completed the race. I wanted to cry in pain and smile from excitement at the same time. Like I said, my body hurt...but it never felt better.

-Ashley Koehn

Inspiration and the Chicago Marathon

DanaFine — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:15:21 GMT

Waking up at seven on a Sunday morning is never easy. My body keeps saying to me, 'Go back to bed, Dana' However, after going to the Chicago Marathon I realized I have nothing to complain about because at least I wasn't getting ready to run 26.2 miles.

I got to the start of marathon in Grant Park around 7:30. At first all the runners seemed like zombies walking to the race. As the start of the race began to creep up on the runners it seemed like they woke up and everyone started talking with each other. I heard people chatting about how long they trained for the race, how many marathons they have done and how nervous they were. Chicago has been cold for the past two weeks but for the marathon it was 80 and sunny. This was making some runners nervous, while others were happy about the nice weather. I was jealous that these runners were getting ready to run. I almost wanted to just get in and start running, I mean I was wearing my Nike gear but then I realized I have not trained and would probably pass out.

The wheelchair racers started the race at 7:50, at 7:55 the elite athletes started running, which was quickly followed by the rest of the athletes at eight. The runners' family members, friends and dogs were all there to support them with signs and T-shirts. The atmosphere was invigorating.

I drove over to LaSalle to see the people running at around mile four. People were already drenched with sweat but were in high spirits. They were slapping the hands of the fans on the sides, cheering when they saw someone they knew and keeping each other motivated.

The 11 mile marker was at Division and Wells. It is hard to believe that 11 miles is not even half way done. People were helping the runners by hosing them down. Many of the runners were dressed in superhero costumes, bee costumes, tutus and even a banana costume. All the runners seemed so happy and proud of themselves that they were participating; no one looked tired or ready to quit.

The end of the race had massages and a buffet for all. For most people they were happy to say that they ran a marathon for others the excitement of this marathon made them want to do another one. I envied these people who were able to run all morning through the greatest city in America, Chicago.

The most inspiring part of the marathon is that there were people of all ages, shapes and sizes running. It was almost like age and size didn't matter. Older people were running along younger people and heavy people were running next to fit people. That is the beauty of running, it accepts all, and if you choose to accept running, most often you will fall in love.

-Dana Fine

The fun and excitement of the women's professional basketball finals 2008

DanaFine — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 19:30:02 GMT

As a little girl I dreamed of a Women's Professional Basketball league. I hated that my brother had so many basketball role models and that I had none. Eleven years ago I got my wish and was introduced to so many wonderful women basketball legends. My next dream was to meet these women. My dream was just fulfilled when I was able to attend the WNBA finals in Detroit and see the Detroit Shock take on the San Antonio Silver Stars.

I flew out to Detroit early in the morning and went straight from the airport to the arena. I was four hours early and I was able to walk around the court and enjoy the arena by myself. Being the sentimental person I am I stood on the court and got chills. While I was standing there three women's basketball legends Nancy Lieberman, Tina Thompson and Cheryl Miller walked right by me. I watched them do separate broadcasts and then sat in my seat to get ready for the big game. I was also freaking out in excitement but I am trying to act cool in this blog.

The Silver Stars started the game, scoring basket after basket. They were lead by guard Becky Hammon. Detroit was having trouble answering back but then they started to play a more physical game and took over. Around the time Detroit took the lead I was sent over to meet Ilene Hauser, Nike's sports marketing representative. We started talking about the game with another lady that was sitting right next to her. About five minutes into the conversation I realized it was Donna Orender, the President of the WNBA. I felt so lucky that I was watching the WNBA finals with the President of the WNBA.

I went back to my seat to watch the last minutes of the game. Detroit won 76-60, which meant they were the WNBA champions. In celebration everyone stormed the court and confetti filled the arena. Nike's own Katie Smith was named MVP of the series and everyone cheered her on as she accepted her award.

While I was walking off the court to go hear the interviews I bumped into Cheryl Miller and took a picture with her and talked to her. I was ecstatic to meet one of my role models. I listened to interviews and then went straight into the locker room. In the locker room I met Lindsey Harding and partied with the Shock until I had to leave and catch my flight home.

I felt so lucky to be a part of WNBA history. I hope that every little girl, little boy, woman and man has the opportunity to see how amazing women's professional basketball is and that they too experience the fun and excitement of the WNBA finals.

-Dana Fine

OUT RUN YOUR EXPECTATIONS

meghanbrennan — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:15:24 GMT

If you take the Chicago Red line south to 35th/ White Sox station, you land smack in the middle of mayhem. Fans scurry about like ants, dressed in their favorite athlete's garb. They arrive posters in hand and smelling of fresh body paint. It's Saturday in early October and the atmosphere is electric.

Baseball fans beware, you won't witness any walk off homers or bench clearing brawls this afternoon. Yes, stretching is required but it doesn't happen in the 7th inning. Leave your mitts and caps at home and lace up your lucky sneaks. Most importantly bring a fresh pair of legs. Today is the Chicago Marathon.

Any runner will tell you; the last 5 miles is undoubtedly the hardest. Here rhythms fall out of sync and minds question the body's capabilities. If there is anytime to ignite a fire within, it's now.

Thankfully, Nike is in the know. Mile 22 1/2, cue the lights and music. It's time for the Nike+ Motivational Zone.

Zone is the operative word. Music pulsates from the speakers, through the pavement and into the runners' feet. A jumbotron broadcasts the continuous stream of athletes, as they approach the turn at Wentworth and 33rd. It reads; You're doing it! Out run your expectations!

As they make the turn east they are greeted by clads of fans encouraging a strong finish. The Chicago skyline taunts them in the distance. “Come and get me," it dares. Three point seven miles to go. Minds quiet and strides lengthen. They ARE doing it.

Look out finish line, here they come.

-Meghan