Michelle Kempton is the race director for Nova Scotia's destination race called Maritime Race Weekend.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Michelle Kempton: Biography
Michelle Kempton transformed a local running event into an international festival.
RACE DIRECTOR & EVENT PROMOTER: she created unique races on the East Coast and has generated energy and excitement within the running community. The race director for Maritime Race Weekend, a destination race and 2nd largest marathon event for Nova Scotia. She has also worked with the RCMP and Municipal Police to organize: Police Chase.
RUNNING INSTRUCTOR: Michelle has taught hundreds of people how to run. Regardless of weight or age, she motivates them, is positive and encourages them that they can do it. She not only trains people to become active, but helps them to think positively about themselves and understand how strong they are both physically and mentally.
FREELANCE WRITER: published in Canadian Running Magazine, Running Room Magazine, various blogs and newspapers, Michelle’s gift of communication has inspired people across the country. She successfully utilizes social media to spread a positive message to a broad audience.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Michelle is a sought after speaker by both runners and business professionals. Her humorous, down to earth and energetic presentation style keeps everyone engaged and she is considered both inspiring and motivational.
RUN CLUB ORGANIZER: Heart & Sole Running Club became an overnight success. 2 years ago, Michelle and 5 friends created a free not-for-profit running club. The club quickly became the largest running club on the East Coast with over 700 members (and growing). She has been pivotal in creating a social network among runners.
WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE: a panel of professionals reviewed accomplishments of business women and chose to honor Michelle as a leader, recognizing her important role and positive impact on the Health & Wellness industry.
GOLDEN SHOE: nationally recognized Michelle as a leader in the running community by Canadian Running Magazine for making a huge difference in the running community.
• Michelle is the President of the Heart & Sole Running Club. A volunteer based, non-profit running club that welcomes everyone. The inclusive running group encourages runners of all ages to live a healthy lifestyle.
• She organized a free, non-competitive not-for-profit fun-run for children (ages 3-12) for 5 years in her community called the Dolphin Dash.
• Volunteers at a local school, to encourage and coach elementary students in their school run club.
• Helped start a free not-for-profit all-girls running club, which helps females (ages 5-12) participate in a learn-to-run program and hopefully gain confidence, become active and reduce the likelihood of obesity in their teen years.
• Utilized her event management skills to assist the RCMP and local police to organize a fundraising event for the Special Olympics.
• Has volunteered at most local road races. She’s always eager to offer assistance, regardless of the job: race-kit pick-up, water stops, finish-line medals, marshaling or clean-up crew.
PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
RACE DIRECTOR & EVENT PROMOTER: she created unique races on the East Coast and has generated energy and excitement within the running community. The race director for Maritime Race Weekend, a destination race and 2nd largest marathon event for Nova Scotia. She has also worked with the RCMP and Municipal Police to organize: Police Chase.
RUNNING INSTRUCTOR: Michelle has taught hundreds of people how to run. Regardless of weight or age, she motivates them, is positive and encourages them that they can do it. She not only trains people to become active, but helps them to think positively about themselves and understand how strong they are both physically and mentally.
FREELANCE WRITER: published in Canadian Running Magazine, Running Room Magazine, various blogs and newspapers, Michelle’s gift of communication has inspired people across the country. She successfully utilizes social media to spread a positive message to a broad audience.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Michelle is a sought after speaker by both runners and business professionals. Her humorous, down to earth and energetic presentation style keeps everyone engaged and she is considered both inspiring and motivational.
RUN CLUB ORGANIZER: Heart & Sole Running Club became an overnight success. 2 years ago, Michelle and 5 friends created a free not-for-profit running club. The club quickly became the largest running club on the East Coast with over 700 members (and growing). She has been pivotal in creating a social network among runners.
AWARDS
WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE: a panel of professionals reviewed accomplishments of business women and chose to honor Michelle as a leader, recognizing her important role and positive impact on the Health & Wellness industry.
GOLDEN SHOE: nationally recognized Michelle as a leader in the running community by Canadian Running Magazine for making a huge difference in the running community.
BEST BUSINESS
START-UP: national iRun
Magazine recognized Michelle as an innovative business woman for creating a
unique race series that initiated a race revolution on the East Coast of Canada.
COURAGE
TO GIVE BACK: recognized Michelle as an extraordinary
individual, who has shown great courage in surmounting personal hardships and
has gone on to give back to her community.
WOMAN OF SPIRIT: was presented to Michelle, she
was recognized for being an ordinary woman who does extraordinary things. She was honoured for her outstanding spirit
and contributions to her community and inspiring women.
MOST INSPIRATIONAL: judges from national iRun
Magazine declared Michelle a winner for not only improving her own life through
running but for inspiring, motivating and empowering people across Canada about
the benefits of running.
VOLUNTEER ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Michelle is the President of the Heart & Sole Running Club. A volunteer based, non-profit running club that welcomes everyone. The inclusive running group encourages runners of all ages to live a healthy lifestyle.
• She organized a free, non-competitive not-for-profit fun-run for children (ages 3-12) for 5 years in her community called the Dolphin Dash.
• Volunteers at a local school, to encourage and coach elementary students in their school run club.
• Helped start a free not-for-profit all-girls running club, which helps females (ages 5-12) participate in a learn-to-run program and hopefully gain confidence, become active and reduce the likelihood of obesity in their teen years.
• Utilized her event management skills to assist the RCMP and local police to organize a fundraising event for the Special Olympics.
• Has volunteered at most local road races. She’s always eager to offer assistance, regardless of the job: race-kit pick-up, water stops, finish-line medals, marshaling or clean-up crew.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Women of Excellence
Considered the most prestigious award for Nova Scotian women in business, Michelle Kempton was honored as a Women of Excellence for the area of Health, Sport & Wellness.
The nomination committee received a record number of nomination packages in 2013 and 3 amazing women were selected as the leaders in the area of Health, Sport & Wellness - using these categories of measurement:
1) profession/career
2) community
3) personal achievements
Michelle Kempton was chosen for her amazing individual story of success and determination in the area of running and transforming her life and inspiring others.
The Women of Excellence award is an annual fundraising event - this year in one evening, the gala raised $55,000 for Phoenix Youth programs. On November 6, 2014, Michelle Kempton was recognized in front of a crowd of 600 with 2 other amazing women - three-time Olympian and two-time World champion, Karen Furneaux along with writer, author and self-defense instructor Joan Helson. All 3 women varied greatly in experienced, but were considered equally impressive in their personal achievements in business and community.
The event was a time to celebrate women’s accomplishments, gather together a cadre of women leaders and further inspire community engagement, strengthening the fabric of our province.
The nomination committee received a record number of nomination packages in 2013 and 3 amazing women were selected as the leaders in the area of Health, Sport & Wellness - using these categories of measurement:
1) profession/career
2) community
3) personal achievements
Michelle Kempton was chosen for her amazing individual story of success and determination in the area of running and transforming her life and inspiring others.
The Women of Excellence award is an annual fundraising event - this year in one evening, the gala raised $55,000 for Phoenix Youth programs. On November 6, 2014, Michelle Kempton was recognized in front of a crowd of 600 with 2 other amazing women - three-time Olympian and two-time World champion, Karen Furneaux along with writer, author and self-defense instructor Joan Helson. All 3 women varied greatly in experienced, but were considered equally impressive in their personal achievements in business and community.
The event was a time to celebrate women’s accomplishments, gather together a cadre of women leaders and further inspire community engagement, strengthening the fabric of our province.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Courage to Give Back
The Courage To Give Back Awards recognizes extraordinary individuals who have shown great courage in surmounting personal hardships and have gone on to give back to their communities and families. Michelle Kempton was presented with the Courage To Give Back Award at an annual fundraiser on Thursday, January 17, 2013. All proceeds generated from this event went directly to support and enhance Family SOS programs and services.
Brave Heart
Michelle Kempton is the force behind the Heart & Sole Running Club, a club she began last year to encourage runners of all ages to live a healthy lifestyle. After her twins were born, Michelle went to the doctor who told her she was morbidly obese and would be lucky to live to 50. She was 285lbs. It was at that precise moment that she decided to change her life. "I realized that if I didn't start running, I would probably die." She says. Michelle lost a total of 120 lbs, and credits running as the catalyst for a major psychological change in her self-esteem and approach to life. Today, healthy and fit, Michelle teaches hundreds of women how to run. Regardless of weight or age, Michelle motivates them, is positive, and acts as "the little voices inside their head" to help them to think positively about themselves and to help them understand how truly strong they are.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Golden Shoe Award
Canadian Running Magazine honoured eight deserving runners with the Golden Shoe Award. Each have made a huge difference in the running community. Michelle Kempton received this national award for 2012 for being a Community Pillar.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Adrenaline Junkie!!!
In 2009, Michelle Kempton was nominated by a fellow runner for the national iRun award. Michelle was interviewed, her contributions to the running community were evaluated, she was honoured by iRun Magazine, and the judges declared her a winner for not only improving her own life through running, but she had proven to inspire, motivate and empower people across Canada about the benefits of running for weight-loss.
Published in iRun Magazine
Michelle Kempton says "iRun because I'm an adrenaline junkie!"
When Michelle Kempton went for her first run just one year ago, she truly believed she was going to die!
"At the 30-second mark, I felt like I was tasting blood," recalls Kempton. "I maybe made 100 feet - it was intense."
The 34 year old, Kempton - who has struggled with weight issues all her life - once tipped the scales at 285lbs. Although she had tried "everything" to lose weight, it took nearly losing her father - who suffered a major heart attack - to move her to take control of her health.
"For so many years, I used the excuse that people could drop dead while running," says Kempton, who is dedicated wife and mother of five-year-old twins. "Then I realized that if I didn't start running, I would probably die - I could develop diabetes or have a heart attack."
Working with a trainer, Kempton gradually introduced running into her new workout regime, which also included fitness bootcamp and hot yoga.
"The cardio element of running was really the key for me," says Kempton, who was 250lbs when she began running. "That’s when the pounds just started to fly off."
Kempton lost a total of 120lbs, 85 of which she attributes directly to running.
More importantly, she lost the inhibition that had plagued her for so long.
"I used to walk around with my head down - I would hope that nobody would notice me because I was embarrassed about how I looked."
Over the course of 10 months, Kempton built her running endurance up to the 10K mark. Today, the healthy and fit 165lb, Kempton runs 5K almost daily. She plans to lose a few more pounds and wants to start racing, with the eventual goal of a half-marathon.
Most importantly, Kempton credits running as the catalyst for a major psychological change in her self-esteem and approach to life. In fact, she is using her newfound fitness as a springboard for a new career.
"I went from obese web designer to athletic business owner in two years," enthuses Kempton. As a designer, I was creating beauty but the clients never met me - I could hide behind the beautiful website. Now I want to be in front of clients, sharing with people what I've accomplished."
Kempton will help clients in the areas of running, weight-loss and nutrition, and will hold speaking engagements to share her own story. She feels her perspective will be valuable since she can sympathize with just how difficult it is for an overweight person to start running.
"When you have a skinny person tell you 'Just do it' and they don’t' understand how much it hurts, it's really hard," says Kempton. "I get a lot of exhilaration from helping people to start running. That will be my focus."
Michelle Kempton says "iRun because I'm an adrenaline junkie!"
When Michelle Kempton went for her first run just one year ago, she truly believed she was going to die!
"At the 30-second mark, I felt like I was tasting blood," recalls Kempton. "I maybe made 100 feet - it was intense."
The 34 year old, Kempton - who has struggled with weight issues all her life - once tipped the scales at 285lbs. Although she had tried "everything" to lose weight, it took nearly losing her father - who suffered a major heart attack - to move her to take control of her health.
"For so many years, I used the excuse that people could drop dead while running," says Kempton, who is dedicated wife and mother of five-year-old twins. "Then I realized that if I didn't start running, I would probably die - I could develop diabetes or have a heart attack."
Working with a trainer, Kempton gradually introduced running into her new workout regime, which also included fitness bootcamp and hot yoga.
"The cardio element of running was really the key for me," says Kempton, who was 250lbs when she began running. "That’s when the pounds just started to fly off."
Kempton lost a total of 120lbs, 85 of which she attributes directly to running.
More importantly, she lost the inhibition that had plagued her for so long.
"I used to walk around with my head down - I would hope that nobody would notice me because I was embarrassed about how I looked."
Over the course of 10 months, Kempton built her running endurance up to the 10K mark. Today, the healthy and fit 165lb, Kempton runs 5K almost daily. She plans to lose a few more pounds and wants to start racing, with the eventual goal of a half-marathon.
Most importantly, Kempton credits running as the catalyst for a major psychological change in her self-esteem and approach to life. In fact, she is using her newfound fitness as a springboard for a new career.
"I went from obese web designer to athletic business owner in two years," enthuses Kempton. As a designer, I was creating beauty but the clients never met me - I could hide behind the beautiful website. Now I want to be in front of clients, sharing with people what I've accomplished."
Kempton will help clients in the areas of running, weight-loss and nutrition, and will hold speaking engagements to share her own story. She feels her perspective will be valuable since she can sympathize with just how difficult it is for an overweight person to start running.
"When you have a skinny person tell you 'Just do it' and they don’t' understand how much it hurts, it's really hard," says Kempton. "I get a lot of exhilaration from helping people to start running. That will be my focus."
A Woman on a Mission
Originally published in Runners Feed
Written by: Chantelle Wilder
Does running find us or do we find running? In the case of Nova Scotian, Michelle Kempton, running not only found her, but it wrapped her up, spun her around, and dropped her off at the start line of what has turned into thousands of miles and the transforming of her life and now many other’s lives!
With running as her catalyst, Kempton lost 120 pounds, off her former 5’4, 285 pound frame and kept on going. In previous articles, Kempton uses humour to explain her former figure, but it was fear that caused her to make a change.
Numerous publications have covered the race directing, clinic hosting, web-designing mommy, and explain the undulating journey that brought Michelle to where is now (Read Stories)
At Runners Feed we are particularly interested in part two of Michelle’s journey which involves the founding of United by Running and the hosting of three Canadian Maritime road races: Sole Sisters Women’s Race (June), Maritime Race Weekend (September) and the upcoming Lucky 7 Relay on November 18th.
The first 2 events sold old (1500 & 2000 runners respectively) with hundreds of runners put on waiting lists. Needless to say the events were huge hits with the Canadian maritime running scene and the Lucky 7 Relay is 50% full already! (Register now!)
Why the Success? You ask…
Kempton and co-founder Stacy Chesnutt, set out with the goal of revolutionizing the road running scene by creating opportunities for runners to run more joyfully, with less stress and more fun.
Let me explain…
The inaugural Sole Sisters race this past June was for women only and took on the theme of “no clock, no watch”. That’s not to say that United by Running races aren’t interested in fast times and watching their athletes improve; they just make fun the priority. Kempton and Chesnutt took this idea to a whole new level when they required elites to make room on the front of the start line for the best-dressed pirates at the Maritime Race Weekend!
United by Running races have also gained a reputation for sparing no expense when it comes to pre-race giveaways and post-race refreshments and medals.
As runners themselves, they recognized that runners’ closets are overflowing with race t-shirts and decided to offer something unique and practical for their upcoming fall race: Lucky 7 Relay Branded Running Sleeves!
The Lucky 7 Relay
The upcoming Lucky 7 Relay welcomes 3-person relay teams that complete a half marathon (21k) with each runner taking on their own 7-kilometer leg of the race. (See Course Map)
How has this series gained so much momentum so quickly?
The secret is in the race directing team. These women genuinely care about their runners and the race day experience of all stakeholders (athletes, charity partners, sponsors etc.) They listen to what their participants want and do their very best to provide it!
United by Running also does an excellent job of connecting with their runners, and sponsors all year long via social media channels like facebook and Twitter! They are an excellent role model for all race directors and we suggest everyone start following them! (@unitedbyrunning)
We highly recommend throwing together a 3-person team for the Lucky 7 Relay on November 18th and if you can’t coerce 2 buddies into joining your team, don’t fret, race directors have offered to build teams out of solo runners on race morning!
Yes folks, this race directing team is that good!
Learn more about the Lucky 7 Relay and United by Running
Also, be sure to check out Michelle Kempton’s blog. You won’t be disappointed!
About the Author: Chantelle Wilder is the Senior Editor and Co-Founder of Runners Feed. She also competes for the New Balance Silicon Valley Club in the Bay Area of California. When she isn’t running, or editing she can be found enjoying the fruitful wines of nearby Napa Valley while challenging her husband to a game of Bananagrams®.
Written by: Chantelle Wilder
Does running find us or do we find running? In the case of Nova Scotian, Michelle Kempton, running not only found her, but it wrapped her up, spun her around, and dropped her off at the start line of what has turned into thousands of miles and the transforming of her life and now many other’s lives!
With running as her catalyst, Kempton lost 120 pounds, off her former 5’4, 285 pound frame and kept on going. In previous articles, Kempton uses humour to explain her former figure, but it was fear that caused her to make a change.
Numerous publications have covered the race directing, clinic hosting, web-designing mommy, and explain the undulating journey that brought Michelle to where is now (Read Stories)
At Runners Feed we are particularly interested in part two of Michelle’s journey which involves the founding of United by Running and the hosting of three Canadian Maritime road races: Sole Sisters Women’s Race (June), Maritime Race Weekend (September) and the upcoming Lucky 7 Relay on November 18th.
The first 2 events sold old (1500 & 2000 runners respectively) with hundreds of runners put on waiting lists. Needless to say the events were huge hits with the Canadian maritime running scene and the Lucky 7 Relay is 50% full already! (Register now!)
Why the Success? You ask…
Kempton and co-founder Stacy Chesnutt, set out with the goal of revolutionizing the road running scene by creating opportunities for runners to run more joyfully, with less stress and more fun.
Let me explain…
The inaugural Sole Sisters race this past June was for women only and took on the theme of “no clock, no watch”. That’s not to say that United by Running races aren’t interested in fast times and watching their athletes improve; they just make fun the priority. Kempton and Chesnutt took this idea to a whole new level when they required elites to make room on the front of the start line for the best-dressed pirates at the Maritime Race Weekend!
United by Running races have also gained a reputation for sparing no expense when it comes to pre-race giveaways and post-race refreshments and medals.
As runners themselves, they recognized that runners’ closets are overflowing with race t-shirts and decided to offer something unique and practical for their upcoming fall race: Lucky 7 Relay Branded Running Sleeves!
The Lucky 7 Relay
The upcoming Lucky 7 Relay welcomes 3-person relay teams that complete a half marathon (21k) with each runner taking on their own 7-kilometer leg of the race. (See Course Map)
How has this series gained so much momentum so quickly?
The secret is in the race directing team. These women genuinely care about their runners and the race day experience of all stakeholders (athletes, charity partners, sponsors etc.) They listen to what their participants want and do their very best to provide it!
United by Running also does an excellent job of connecting with their runners, and sponsors all year long via social media channels like facebook and Twitter! They are an excellent role model for all race directors and we suggest everyone start following them! (@unitedbyrunning)
We highly recommend throwing together a 3-person team for the Lucky 7 Relay on November 18th and if you can’t coerce 2 buddies into joining your team, don’t fret, race directors have offered to build teams out of solo runners on race morning!
Yes folks, this race directing team is that good!
Learn more about the Lucky 7 Relay and United by Running
Also, be sure to check out Michelle Kempton’s blog. You won’t be disappointed!
About the Author: Chantelle Wilder is the Senior Editor and Co-Founder of Runners Feed. She also competes for the New Balance Silicon Valley Club in the Bay Area of California. When she isn’t running, or editing she can be found enjoying the fruitful wines of nearby Napa Valley while challenging her husband to a game of Bananagrams®.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Woman of Spirit
Michelle Kempton is being honoured with the Woman of Spirit recognition for her contributions to the running community!!!
Recognized primarily for her:
Michelle is being honoured at the Dress for Success annual fundraiser called The Tea Party. The Tea Party is a modern twist to a traditional tea party. It's fun, fashionable, all-women event that sells out every year! To reserve a seat at the fundraiser (Sunday, April 1st - 12pm-3pm) - click here to reserve seat
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Women are nominated by peers for the Woman of Spirit recognition and one nominee is selected by a panel of board members to be honoured for her outstanding spirit and contributions to her community and inspiring women.
Recognized primarily for her:
- commitment to starting and developing the Heart & Sole Running Club
- her public speaking on the topic of running, weight loss, setting goals and important topics like: how to avoid bra chaffing
- volunteering at races and kids run clubs
- writing in national running magazines and newspapers
- becoming a race director with the commitment of developing exceptional race experiences within Nova Scotia
- inspiring others with her dramatic transformation of losing 120lbs, changing her life from a sedentary adult to an active and vibrant woman
- her approach with learn-to-run clinics - encouraging people to become more active: regardless of their age, size or speed
- and making people feel part of a strong and supportive running community!
Michelle is being honoured at the Dress for Success annual fundraiser called The Tea Party. The Tea Party is a modern twist to a traditional tea party. It's fun, fashionable, all-women event that sells out every year! To reserve a seat at the fundraiser (Sunday, April 1st - 12pm-3pm) - click here to reserve seat
Dress for Success is an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Women are nominated by peers for the Woman of Spirit recognition and one nominee is selected by a panel of board members to be honoured for her outstanding spirit and contributions to her community and inspiring women.
Runner battles the bulge by running and staying positive
Written by Noel Pain
Published by Canadian Running
Change in all things is sweet. - Aristotle
Runners come in all shapes and sizes and runners start their running lives in all shapes and sizes. One east-coast runner who also writes and blogs for Canadian Running magazine transformed her body, her mind and her career by putting one step in front of the other.
At age thirty-three Michelle Kempton was living in Nova Scotia and working as a computer programmer but as much as her mind was working, her body was not. Michelle was morbidly obese and knew it was time to make a change. It was a battle long overdue and one that many Canadians can understand. Michelle was a chubby kid who gained weight as she got older, things were worsened after having twins and she hit her peak at 285 pounds.
Tired of being tired all the time and not being able to do simple things like taking a walk in a local park, Michelle was ready for a change. Seeing her healthy and fit father have a heart attack also told her that she might have hereditary factors working against her.
FACT: Approximately one in four Canadian adults are obese, according to measured height and weight data from 2007-2009. Of children and youth aged six to 17, 8.6% are obese. - Health Canada.
Another runner and friend of mine, Pam MacCormack has transformed her body and life as well. Pam lost 150 lbs. and started running late in life, at the age of 61, and finds there are still challenges and ups and downs to life and running but she says she’ll never look back. “It has transformed how I think of myself, how I approach life and what I believe I am now capable of doing. It is never too late.”
The turning point
The turning point and path that led Michelle to running was when gym work wasn’t quite getting her to where she wanted to be and her personal trainer suggested doing some walking/running intervals. Finding it brutal, she still stuck with the gym and the running but she only ran alone. Eventually runs became longer and after a lot of hard work running became easier and she was running up to 60 kilometres a week and finding others to join up with. When Michelle joined up with others she also realized that runners comes in all shapes in sizes, fit ones, but as many different shapes, running styles and speeds as there are runners.
Michelle not only transformed her body, found fellow running friends but also found she could combine a new passion with a lifestyle and job change. Setting aside a desk job, she started a race management company called United by Running and with five friends founded the Heart & Sole Running Club last year.
After seeing a newspaper article about Michelle in my home town’s newspaper, having seen her name in Canadian Running magazine and having briefly made contact with her running club, I decided it was time to say hello.
What are your running PBs, what are your short term and long term running goals?
“I used to define my PBs by time (25 min 5K, 52 min 10K, 2:21 half-marathon), but now I’ve committed to making personal bests more about how I feel during the run and trying to not obsess over my watch.”
“My short-term running goal isn’t actually about reaching a milestone for myself. In 2012, I want to pace others in races. Pacing is great - you make lifelong friendships, it takes the pressure off yourself to keep running faster and harder than the last time and is always an awesome celebration at the finish line. It requires sacrifice and commitment for others - but the reward is beyond words - I’ve had friends paced me on PBs and I appreciate them a great deal - it’s my way of giving back.”
“I don’t make specific long-term goals, because my life is constantly changing - who knows where I’ll be in a year. Right now a marathon isn’t on the horizon, but that doesn’t mean it won’t ever be. I’m a runner - I hope to still be able to say that next month, next year and when I’m really old.”
What has running taught you about yourself and life?
“Even though I never have considered myself an athlete or a role model - I’ve become one. I didn’t realize when I started my journey, that my story could give hope to others who feel the way I used to about physical activity. Running is the only sport that I’ve ever embraced - it has opened my world up to new people, amazing friends, a supportive community and a new lease on life. Being a runner is pivotal in how I define myself and how others see me. I would have never thought 5 years ago, when it was painful to run a few feet, that I would transform into a runner! I’m glad I never gave up.”
How difficult and scary was it to make such a career change and how do you feel now?
“Blurring the lines between work and play seems right for my family and I. It’s going to give me the opportunity to be home after school with my twins and even volunteer at their school run club. That wouldn’t be possible if I didn’t make this career change. It’s also going to give me an opportunity to exercise regularly and help others. I’m not scared, but I do have one fear - getting injured. This spring - I’m instructing a Learn-to-Run, 10K and Half-Marathon Clinic. I have a rigurous schedule, with a lot of miles, hill-repeats and track workouts. But as long as I’m injury free, I’ll have a job that doesn’t seem like work! What a dream come true.”
What can you tell others who may be in the situation you were when you first started running?
“You really need to know the reason why you want to run - remind yourself of this every time you want to quit. Running will likely feel hard at first, but it will get easier. If you want it bad enough, you’ll get over the hurdles and recover when you hit the wall! Expect there are some days you will love running and others where you hate it - this is normal - but regardless of your last run - tie up your laces the next day and be optimistic that it will be a great run today and you’ll feel strong.”
Now that you call yourself a runner and are part of the Canadian running community, do you finally feel happy with yourself and self-image?
“My weight always fluxuates. Before a big race I’m strong, fit and feel good. After I finish a big race, I tend to reduce my mileage, weight packs on fast - it sucks but my body does need to rest but morphs in size if I don’t run enough. I’m not sure that I’ll ever be completely happy with my looks. Does anyone ever feel thin or pretty enough? I’ve never been there, so I don’t know if it exists - but I do feel more comfortable in my own skin and much happier. Every run, I think about all the people who can’t run - someone with cancer, others restricted by a wheelchair or even those with the lack of support or confidence to try - it helps me to appreciate how privileged I am to be part of the running community - that outweighs how I feel about my beauty or size. My soul feels good.”
Amazing and inspiring story Michelle, hope to see more of your writing in Canadian Running. For those on the east coast check out some new races to the mix including an all female race, a pirate inspired race weekend including a marathon and prize money and a new relay focused on the number seven.
Published by Canadian Running
Change in all things is sweet. - Aristotle
Runners come in all shapes and sizes and runners start their running lives in all shapes and sizes. One east-coast runner who also writes and blogs for Canadian Running magazine transformed her body, her mind and her career by putting one step in front of the other.
At age thirty-three Michelle Kempton was living in Nova Scotia and working as a computer programmer but as much as her mind was working, her body was not. Michelle was morbidly obese and knew it was time to make a change. It was a battle long overdue and one that many Canadians can understand. Michelle was a chubby kid who gained weight as she got older, things were worsened after having twins and she hit her peak at 285 pounds.
Tired of being tired all the time and not being able to do simple things like taking a walk in a local park, Michelle was ready for a change. Seeing her healthy and fit father have a heart attack also told her that she might have hereditary factors working against her.
FACT: Approximately one in four Canadian adults are obese, according to measured height and weight data from 2007-2009. Of children and youth aged six to 17, 8.6% are obese. - Health Canada.
Another runner and friend of mine, Pam MacCormack has transformed her body and life as well. Pam lost 150 lbs. and started running late in life, at the age of 61, and finds there are still challenges and ups and downs to life and running but she says she’ll never look back. “It has transformed how I think of myself, how I approach life and what I believe I am now capable of doing. It is never too late.”
The turning point
The turning point and path that led Michelle to running was when gym work wasn’t quite getting her to where she wanted to be and her personal trainer suggested doing some walking/running intervals. Finding it brutal, she still stuck with the gym and the running but she only ran alone. Eventually runs became longer and after a lot of hard work running became easier and she was running up to 60 kilometres a week and finding others to join up with. When Michelle joined up with others she also realized that runners comes in all shapes in sizes, fit ones, but as many different shapes, running styles and speeds as there are runners.
Michelle not only transformed her body, found fellow running friends but also found she could combine a new passion with a lifestyle and job change. Setting aside a desk job, she started a race management company called United by Running and with five friends founded the Heart & Sole Running Club last year.
After seeing a newspaper article about Michelle in my home town’s newspaper, having seen her name in Canadian Running magazine and having briefly made contact with her running club, I decided it was time to say hello.
What are your running PBs, what are your short term and long term running goals?
“I used to define my PBs by time (25 min 5K, 52 min 10K, 2:21 half-marathon), but now I’ve committed to making personal bests more about how I feel during the run and trying to not obsess over my watch.”
“My short-term running goal isn’t actually about reaching a milestone for myself. In 2012, I want to pace others in races. Pacing is great - you make lifelong friendships, it takes the pressure off yourself to keep running faster and harder than the last time and is always an awesome celebration at the finish line. It requires sacrifice and commitment for others - but the reward is beyond words - I’ve had friends paced me on PBs and I appreciate them a great deal - it’s my way of giving back.”
“I don’t make specific long-term goals, because my life is constantly changing - who knows where I’ll be in a year. Right now a marathon isn’t on the horizon, but that doesn’t mean it won’t ever be. I’m a runner - I hope to still be able to say that next month, next year and when I’m really old.”
What has running taught you about yourself and life?
“Even though I never have considered myself an athlete or a role model - I’ve become one. I didn’t realize when I started my journey, that my story could give hope to others who feel the way I used to about physical activity. Running is the only sport that I’ve ever embraced - it has opened my world up to new people, amazing friends, a supportive community and a new lease on life. Being a runner is pivotal in how I define myself and how others see me. I would have never thought 5 years ago, when it was painful to run a few feet, that I would transform into a runner! I’m glad I never gave up.”
How difficult and scary was it to make such a career change and how do you feel now?
“Blurring the lines between work and play seems right for my family and I. It’s going to give me the opportunity to be home after school with my twins and even volunteer at their school run club. That wouldn’t be possible if I didn’t make this career change. It’s also going to give me an opportunity to exercise regularly and help others. I’m not scared, but I do have one fear - getting injured. This spring - I’m instructing a Learn-to-Run, 10K and Half-Marathon Clinic. I have a rigurous schedule, with a lot of miles, hill-repeats and track workouts. But as long as I’m injury free, I’ll have a job that doesn’t seem like work! What a dream come true.”
What can you tell others who may be in the situation you were when you first started running?
“You really need to know the reason why you want to run - remind yourself of this every time you want to quit. Running will likely feel hard at first, but it will get easier. If you want it bad enough, you’ll get over the hurdles and recover when you hit the wall! Expect there are some days you will love running and others where you hate it - this is normal - but regardless of your last run - tie up your laces the next day and be optimistic that it will be a great run today and you’ll feel strong.”
Now that you call yourself a runner and are part of the Canadian running community, do you finally feel happy with yourself and self-image?
“My weight always fluxuates. Before a big race I’m strong, fit and feel good. After I finish a big race, I tend to reduce my mileage, weight packs on fast - it sucks but my body does need to rest but morphs in size if I don’t run enough. I’m not sure that I’ll ever be completely happy with my looks. Does anyone ever feel thin or pretty enough? I’ve never been there, so I don’t know if it exists - but I do feel more comfortable in my own skin and much happier. Every run, I think about all the people who can’t run - someone with cancer, others restricted by a wheelchair or even those with the lack of support or confidence to try - it helps me to appreciate how privileged I am to be part of the running community - that outweighs how I feel about my beauty or size. My soul feels good.”
Amazing and inspiring story Michelle, hope to see more of your writing in Canadian Running. For those on the east coast check out some new races to the mix including an all female race, a pirate inspired race weekend including a marathon and prize money and a new relay focused on the number seven.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
When I run it's on me
Teacher, race manager shed 120 pounds running and discovered her passion
Michelle Kempton runs along the shore in Cow Bay. Kempton once had trouble getting up a flight of stairs or going for a walk. Then the running bug hit. (CHRISTIAN LAFORCE / Staff)
Published in: The Chronicle Herald
Written by: Bill Spurr
AT AGE 33 and morbidly obese, Michelle Kempton knew it was time to take stock.
Growing up in Lawrencetown, near Dartmouth, Kempton’s total athletic history consisted of a year of softball in Grade 6, after which she was named Most Sportsmanlike. The inactivity had predictable results.
"I always had a weight problem, my whole life," she said. "Even pictures from when I was a little kid — I was chubby. Then I got really overweight, and then I had twins seven years ago.
"I didn’t gain much weight with them, because I was already big. I was 260 pounds when I got pregnant, and went up to 285, so I only gained 25 pounds with twins."
Kempton’s dad was healthy and fit and exercised regularly. When he almost died of a heart attack, she realized she might also have heredity working against her and had better find a way to keep from dying young. She hadn’t been diagnosed with any health issues yet, but she was tired all the time.
"And I was unhappy and I didn’t feel pretty and I was moping. If I was sitting on the couch, it would be an effort just to go to the fridge to get something to eat, or to climb up a flight of stairs, I would be winded. I didn’t ever want to go for a nice walk because it was work," she said.
"There was this moment, when I was really big, my husband and I did go for a walk in Shubie (Park), and there’s a really big hill there. I remember being completely mortified that I couldn’t even walk up that hill, and I had to take two breaks. A couple of years later, I was running up it full tilt, passing people."
What happened in the interim? Running. Or, at first, a reasonable facsimile of running.
"I was working with a personal trainer and I would lose some weight, hit a plateau, lose some weight, hit another plateau," Kempton remembers.
"He suggested that I do some interval running. He said: ‘I just want you to run one minute, then walk a minute, do it for 20 minutes total.’ The first time I tried to do that, it was brutal. I had this awful taste in my mouth and I wasn’t even running fast, it was just above a walk. I had to remind myself why I wanted to do this, to feel better about myself."
For almost two years, worried she didn’t look athletic enough, Kempton would only run alone. But dramatic weight loss from running as much as 60 kilometres per week transformed the activity into something social, and fun.
"Once I lost 120 pounds I looked like what I thought a runner should look like. Now I realize that everybody who’s running is a runner, but when I was big I didn’t think that. Now that I’m in the community I realize there’s people of all shapes and sizes that run, but I was scared to join that group, because I’d never been part of a team, never been part of a club."
But as anybody who has lost weight knows, it’s just as big a challenge to keep it off. Kempton had been self-employed during the two years she slimmed down, but once she took an office job, the new clothes started to get tight again.
"I won’t step on a scale so I’m not sure how much I’ve gained," she said. "I think it’s about 30 pounds but I don’t know. From my clothes and pictures I know I’m not 165."
Then a second epiphany. Instead of working as a computer programmer for an income, Kempton decided to do what she loved — teach running clinics full time, something she’d already been doing on the side.
She also started a race management company, which will run three races this summer, and she and five friends founded the Heart and Sole running club last year. When the club celebrated its first anniversary earlier this month, it had more than 550 members.
"I’m lucky my husband supports the idea of me being happy, and doing a job I enjoy. That’s a key component, him saying it’s OK, we’ll take the risk," said Kempton, calling Dartmouth an "amazing running community" where she can feel supported.
"I like that with running I am not accountable to anybody else except myself. If I was playing baseball and struck out, I’d feel bad for the team. When I run it’s on me. When I’m running up a hill and I want to take a break, I tell myself that at the top of that hill, if I’m walking, I’m going to be disappointed in myself. You have to do this for you."
Published in: The Chronicle Herald
Written by: Bill Spurr
AT AGE 33 and morbidly obese, Michelle Kempton knew it was time to take stock.
Growing up in Lawrencetown, near Dartmouth, Kempton’s total athletic history consisted of a year of softball in Grade 6, after which she was named Most Sportsmanlike. The inactivity had predictable results.
"I always had a weight problem, my whole life," she said. "Even pictures from when I was a little kid — I was chubby. Then I got really overweight, and then I had twins seven years ago.
"I didn’t gain much weight with them, because I was already big. I was 260 pounds when I got pregnant, and went up to 285, so I only gained 25 pounds with twins."
Kempton’s dad was healthy and fit and exercised regularly. When he almost died of a heart attack, she realized she might also have heredity working against her and had better find a way to keep from dying young. She hadn’t been diagnosed with any health issues yet, but she was tired all the time.
"And I was unhappy and I didn’t feel pretty and I was moping. If I was sitting on the couch, it would be an effort just to go to the fridge to get something to eat, or to climb up a flight of stairs, I would be winded. I didn’t ever want to go for a nice walk because it was work," she said.
"There was this moment, when I was really big, my husband and I did go for a walk in Shubie (Park), and there’s a really big hill there. I remember being completely mortified that I couldn’t even walk up that hill, and I had to take two breaks. A couple of years later, I was running up it full tilt, passing people."
What happened in the interim? Running. Or, at first, a reasonable facsimile of running.
"I was working with a personal trainer and I would lose some weight, hit a plateau, lose some weight, hit another plateau," Kempton remembers.
"He suggested that I do some interval running. He said: ‘I just want you to run one minute, then walk a minute, do it for 20 minutes total.’ The first time I tried to do that, it was brutal. I had this awful taste in my mouth and I wasn’t even running fast, it was just above a walk. I had to remind myself why I wanted to do this, to feel better about myself."
For almost two years, worried she didn’t look athletic enough, Kempton would only run alone. But dramatic weight loss from running as much as 60 kilometres per week transformed the activity into something social, and fun.
"Once I lost 120 pounds I looked like what I thought a runner should look like. Now I realize that everybody who’s running is a runner, but when I was big I didn’t think that. Now that I’m in the community I realize there’s people of all shapes and sizes that run, but I was scared to join that group, because I’d never been part of a team, never been part of a club."
But as anybody who has lost weight knows, it’s just as big a challenge to keep it off. Kempton had been self-employed during the two years she slimmed down, but once she took an office job, the new clothes started to get tight again.
"I won’t step on a scale so I’m not sure how much I’ve gained," she said. "I think it’s about 30 pounds but I don’t know. From my clothes and pictures I know I’m not 165."
Then a second epiphany. Instead of working as a computer programmer for an income, Kempton decided to do what she loved — teach running clinics full time, something she’d already been doing on the side.
She also started a race management company, which will run three races this summer, and she and five friends founded the Heart and Sole running club last year. When the club celebrated its first anniversary earlier this month, it had more than 550 members.
"I’m lucky my husband supports the idea of me being happy, and doing a job I enjoy. That’s a key component, him saying it’s OK, we’ll take the risk," said Kempton, calling Dartmouth an "amazing running community" where she can feel supported.
"I like that with running I am not accountable to anybody else except myself. If I was playing baseball and struck out, I’d feel bad for the team. When I run it’s on me. When I’m running up a hill and I want to take a break, I tell myself that at the top of that hill, if I’m walking, I’m going to be disappointed in myself. You have to do this for you."
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
You set the pace
Written by Joanne Oosvteen
Published in Halifax News Net
Sole Sisters women-only race to be held in Dartmouth Crossing this spring.
First all-women's 5K race to be held in Dartmouth.
Sole Sisters all-women 5K race to be held in Dartmouth Crossing.
The first ever all-women's 5K race to be held on this side of the harbour will take place in Dartmouth Crossing on June 9.
But in this race, runners will be encouraged to leave their watches at home.
The event will be all about having a good time, celebrating the strength of female runners, the friendships that have developed and the sheer joy of being active.
"In an effort to make the Sole Sisters 5K the most inclusive and celebratory event possible, we want you to leave your watches at home. Make this your best run ever, but don't base your opinion on what you see on a clock, " said Stacy Chesnutt, whose company United By Running is hosting the race. "We aren't timing this run and we don't want you to either."
Chesnutt's business partner and co-race director is Michelle Kempton. She said she first got the idea for a non-timed race after taking part in an event in the Valley last year.
"It was so much fun to be able to run with people you don't normally run with," said Kempton. "Enjoy the race at whatever pace feels comfortable and cross the finish line with your friends. What could be better?"
That sounds like a good plan, said born again Dartmouth runner Tory Greff. The 40-year-old said an all women event intrigues her.
"A distance like 5K is doable for busy women, especially for those with kids," she said. "Five-K's are awesome and the training can be done in manageable chunks of time."
Female runners and walkers of all ages, shapes and abilities will gather at the Ampitheatre at Dartmouth Crossing before the run.
The Dartmouth Crossing site was chosen for its nice wide roads, flat route and central location.
They will then walk together up to the starting line.
And that is when the real fun begins, said Greff.
"It will be amazing to see all the fun sights along the route, listen to the music and be catered to by the men," she said.
Men may not be welcome to run in the Sole Sisters race, but they are encouraged to come out and cheer, support, line the route and stand in awe at the sea of 1,000 women who will be running by them.
Greff said it will be interesting to have men as cabana boys giving out water, instead of cheering them on as they sprint across the finish line first.
"It is our turn," she said.
Meryl Cook, 55, is another runner who will be lacing up her sneaks to run on June 9.
The Dartmouth homeopath has overcome many health challenges over the past six years and says running has been key to her getting better.
"It feels good to be a middle aged woman who can run, even though I am not a fast runner," she said. "Since I joined Heart and Sole I have been encouraged to keep going and to progress at my own pace."
Cook says that is another reason why women should train and run in this event in June.
"I have made some great friendships through running," she said. "Too often women compete for everything from jobs, to men to the best times in races. At Sole Sisters it will be all about supporting one another, not competing."
The race directors have many surprises for the participants,along with the requisite designer race T-Shirt and awesome medal.
And there will definitely be chocolate, too.
Kempton and Chesnutt have worked side by side with HRP to ensure this route is both safe and fun.
And both Greff and Cook say they are looking forward to the run being held in the evening.
"We can stick around after the race and have a few laughs," said Greff. "We can even make it into a whole girl's night if we want."
Kempton said they chose an evening run time so everyone will stay for the post race celebration where participants will be pampered.
At the race kit pickup there will be experts available to educate female runners on issues like safety, GPS, stretching, nutrition and running bras.
"This run will have everything a woman could want," said Greff.
To register for the Sole Sisters Run, go to www.solesistersrace.com
For info on how to register for a running clinic to get ready for Sole Sisters, or other races, go to michelle@unitedbyrunning.com
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Eastern Passage, Cow Bay to host Maritime Marathon
Written by Joanne Oosvteen
Published in Halifax News Net
The communities of Eastern Passage and Cow Bay have been chosen to host the first ever Maritime Race Weekend.
With four distances to choose from, the 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon will all start from Fisherman's Cove on Sept. 15.
Organizers say they have picked the site for the beautiful coastline views, strong community spirit and hidden treasures.
"We live in one of the most gorgeous provinces in the country, so why are we running in the city streets instead of along our beautiful coastline?" said Cow Bay resident Michelle Kempton, whose company United by Running is hosting the races.
Her business partner and co-race director is Dartmouth resident Stacy Chesnutt.
The weekend will be pirate themed and will feature lots of surprises.
The local "Pirates of Halifax" have been notified and will be coming ashore to cast anchor in Eastern Passage for the race weekend.
One of their jobs will be to set off the cannons to signal the start of the races.
"Runners will also have to keep a firm grip on their race kit, it is filled with treasures but these pirates will pillage any scallywag they find," said Kempton.
"With added swag in the race kits, contests, designer race shirts, healthy food, bling at the finish line and prize money too the races will develop a feeling of community that already exists within Eastern Passage and Cow Bay."
Kempton said this race weekend will showcase an often hidden part of HRM.
"I've lived in Dartmouth for five years, but had never heard of Fisherman's Cove," said Chesnutt. "When Michelle showed me how picturesque it was, I fell in love with it."
Plans are already in place to include the entire community in the race.
Local runner Cathy Carter has been hired to meet with community groups to help them figure out how they can contribute to the race weekend.
"We want everyone from brownies to seniors to volunteer to come and cheer, do water stops and ring those cow bells," said Kempton. " This will be about everyone whether you run or not, having a great time."
Chesnutt and Kempton have approached the mayor, councillors, MLAs and even the premier.
"They all thought it was a great idea," said Kempton.
MLA Becky Kent said Kempton has even talked her into putting on her running shoes and getting into shape.
"The plans to engage the community are particularly exciting so everyone is part of the action, not only the runners," said Kent. "I am sure our community will step up to the plate and be wonderful hosts for the many runners and supporters at the Maritime Marathon."
Kent said she is happy the Maritime Marathon is working very hard to raise the profile of running for all ages, sizes, shapes and genders.
Transportation is being arranged around Metro to pick up runners and bring them to the startline at Fisherman's Cove.
Next week Chesnutt and Kempton are attending a race directors event in Houston.
"We will promote the Maritime Marathon while we are there," she said. "But really we would like people to come home in September for the race weekend too."
Kempton is also starting learn to run clinics that will get runners ready for the Maritime Marathon weekend. To reach her for more info on registration for the race or for the clinics please go to michelle@unitedbyrunning.com
If anyone is interested in learning how they can register their community group to be a part of volunteering at the event please contact Cathy Carter at info@unitedbyrunning.com
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Pirates and treasures amid the route!
Ahoy! The Pirates of Halifax will come ashore. With promise of treasures, food and ale, United by Running have lured pirates to cast anchor in Eastern Passage for Maritime Race Weekend.
Runners, keep a firm grip on your race kit - it's filled with treasures but these pirates will pillage any scallywag they find. The crew of characters from the Pirates of Halifax will ensure that you have an authentic pirate race experience!
Captain Hector Barbossa has discovered the treasure map, the motherless landlubber copied the race route and sold it to some other black hearted captains (Jack Sparrow, Edward Teague and Davy Jones). Now all 4 are in a race to find the treasure first but the sea leg pirates have little chance, because runners want the loot too!
It be true me hearties, there is more treasures at the Maritime Race Weekend than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.
Race registration goes on sale next month! Sign-up at United by Running to receive early bird registration access and the chance to win prizes!
Three new races set for Nova Scotia in 2012
Published in The Chronicle Herald
Written by: Glenn MacDonald
For those who made a New Year’s resolution to get fit, the local running scene will have three new races to choose from this year.
Two avid runners — Michelle Kempton of Halifax and Dartmouth’s Stacy Chesnutt, a marathoner originally from Nashville, Tenn. — have combined forces to create three themed races to the 2012 running calendar: a five-kilometre women’s race in June, a marathon weekend in September and a half-marathon team relay in November.
Kempton said the trio of races are designed to make Nova Scotia a destination for running.
"In different parts of North America, people travel to the races and even locals travel away to get the big show," said Kempton, co-founder of Heart and Sole Running Club.
"People go to Toronto for the waterfront race. People go to Boston to get the Boston experience. People go to Vegas for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. People are travelling away from Nova Scotia to race.
"We wanted to offer an exciting race with the destination angle which will keep people racing and will also attract people to Nova Scotia."
The Maritime Race Weekend, which will feature a marathon, half-marathon, 10K and 5K races, will run Saturday, Sept. 15 in Eastern Passage and Cow Bay.
"It’s a race that will celebrate the east coast and everything that’s great about the east coast," said Kempton, who added that each event during Maritime Race Weekend will be pirate-themed.
"We want it to be a celebration and make you feel that you’re part of a big running community. It’s where the destination race comes in."
The Sole Sisters women’s 5K race, to be held Saturday, June 9 in Dartmouth, is billed as the first all-women’s, five-kilometre race in Nova Scotia.
The Lucky 7 Relay, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 18 in Halifax, will feature teams of three with each member running seven kilometres. Random prizes will be given to those runners who finish seventh, 77th and 777th.
Kempton said these races aren’t meant to challenge or conflict with established marathons like the Blue Nose — held during the long weekend in May — or the Johnny Miles in June.
"I have nothing negative to say about those marathons," she said. "We’ll have ours in the fall so we won’t compete with the Blue Nose or Johnny Miles. When we picked our dates, we made sure it didn’t compete with others.
"The more great races we have, the stronger the racing community will be."
Written by: Glenn MacDonald
For those who made a New Year’s resolution to get fit, the local running scene will have three new races to choose from this year.
Two avid runners — Michelle Kempton of Halifax and Dartmouth’s Stacy Chesnutt, a marathoner originally from Nashville, Tenn. — have combined forces to create three themed races to the 2012 running calendar: a five-kilometre women’s race in June, a marathon weekend in September and a half-marathon team relay in November.
Kempton said the trio of races are designed to make Nova Scotia a destination for running.
"In different parts of North America, people travel to the races and even locals travel away to get the big show," said Kempton, co-founder of Heart and Sole Running Club.
"People go to Toronto for the waterfront race. People go to Boston to get the Boston experience. People go to Vegas for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. People are travelling away from Nova Scotia to race.
"We wanted to offer an exciting race with the destination angle which will keep people racing and will also attract people to Nova Scotia."
The Maritime Race Weekend, which will feature a marathon, half-marathon, 10K and 5K races, will run Saturday, Sept. 15 in Eastern Passage and Cow Bay.
"It’s a race that will celebrate the east coast and everything that’s great about the east coast," said Kempton, who added that each event during Maritime Race Weekend will be pirate-themed.
"We want it to be a celebration and make you feel that you’re part of a big running community. It’s where the destination race comes in."
The Sole Sisters women’s 5K race, to be held Saturday, June 9 in Dartmouth, is billed as the first all-women’s, five-kilometre race in Nova Scotia.
The Lucky 7 Relay, scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 18 in Halifax, will feature teams of three with each member running seven kilometres. Random prizes will be given to those runners who finish seventh, 77th and 777th.
Kempton said these races aren’t meant to challenge or conflict with established marathons like the Blue Nose — held during the long weekend in May — or the Johnny Miles in June.
"I have nothing negative to say about those marathons," she said. "We’ll have ours in the fall so we won’t compete with the Blue Nose or Johnny Miles. When we picked our dates, we made sure it didn’t compete with others.
"The more great races we have, the stronger the racing community will be."
Monday, October 31, 2011
My Running Stamp
Written by Michelle Kempton
Published in Canadian Running Magazine
I decided that my reward for completing a winter half-marathon would be a tattoo. I spent months day-dreaming ideas that would symbolize my passion, dedication and experience with the only sport that I’ve ever embraced – running.
Near the end of my first half-marathon, I got a mild case of frostbite and started hallucinating – not about the finish line – but something much more permanent: my tattoo design. I envisioned a sneaker splashing in a puddle, surrounded by the four seasons and all the weather conditions
that I’ve run through during the last three years.
At first glance, a stranger wouldn’t guess that I’m a runner. I’m short, curvy and don’t look like an athlete, but I consistently run five days a week. Three years ago, I was a morbidly obese sedentary adult. I took-up running and transformed myself into a healthy, confident and energetic woman.
My journey to become a runner wasn’t easy and I had a few failures. When I started running, I was a 250-pound woman who could barely run 100m without stopping.
As my mileage increased, I started losing a significant amount of weight. A year later, my first race was a 10k, where I ran through the finish line in the wrong direction.
It was still a victory. I weighed 165 lbs with a finish-time of 52 minutes.
People started asking me when I would run my first half-marathon, I’d quickly reply with an enthusiastic “never!” Truth be told, I didn’t believe that I could run that far and I don’t like to fail. A year
after my first race, guess what I was doing? Training for the Hypothermic Half-Marathon in Halifax. It’s a legendary race.
The terrain is hilly and our coastal winter weather is unpredictable.
On race day, I thought my half-marathon experience was the most painful thing that I’ve ever experienced, which says a lot, since I delivered twins. It wasn’t a pretty sight at the Hypothermic Half. My low-tech, last-minute attempt to keep my feet dry involved wearing Ziploc bags between two layers of socks and I’m pretty sure that I looked like death at the finish line. I was cold, wet, and my legs felt like rubber.
My race time was an embarrassing 30 minutes longer than I had hoped for. I placed second-last, crossing the finish line at 2:57. In my defense, I was dodging enormous water puddles, dealing with slippery road conditions and pushing against intense headwinds (but, then again, so was everyone else). In hindsight, I’m glad the weather was horrible, it makes me feel like a running warrior and the finish line was more gratifying.
My reward for completing this half-marathon was surprisingly twice as painful as the race – it took longer too. To celebrate my first half-marathon, I sat in a tattoo studio for five hours, exposing my ears to heavy metal music, while an artist attacked my back with a needle injecting ink into my skin. I’m sure this doesn’t sound like a reward to
most, but I have absolutely no regrets. The pain of the tattoo quickly faded, much like the agony of running a winter half-marathon.
To this day, my Hypothermic Half race medal is my most prized possession. It’s not valuable to anyone except for me, but it represents how far I’ve come and what I am capable of doing. And, the tattoo is a daily reminder of my strength and perseverance as a runner.
Michelle Kempton is a runner based in Dartmouth, N.S., and founder
of the Heart & Sole Running Club.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Mountain Men
Written by: Michelle Kempton
Published in: Sports Stream
Ray Williams and Dave Nevitt have managed to do what no other Nova Scotian runner has done before, they conquered the legendary Leadville Trail 100 Run. This epic race is known by ultra-marathon enthusiasts as the “Race Across the Sky”. Participants have less than 30 hours to run through 100 miles of extreme Colorado Rocky Mountain terrain.
The majority of the route is forest trails with some mountain roads. The highest point of the race is Hope Pass at 12,600 feet. Leadville finishers rightfully earn respect throughout the running community as courageous and phenomenal runners. Every year, amazing athletes train and attempt the race but unfortunately some fail to complete it. In 2011, 46% of the participants did not finish under the 30 hour deadline. Projectile vomiting, numb limbs, muscles cramps, fainting and falling down steep inclines are common for runners in this race. Participants know this, but they still sign-up!
It takes guts, endurance and extreme will-power to fight excessive body and mental fatigue, high altitudes, and the excessive pain involved in running this length of time and intensity without sleep or much time to even sit and rest. But that’s what it takes to succeed at this race, both Williams and Nevitt demonstrated all of these characteristics with impressive finish times of 27:13:24 hours for Williams (age 57) and 28:55:06 hours for Nevitt (age 52). In order to prepare for this race, Williams and Nevitt (experienced ultra-marathoners) committed to training for a year. It wouldn’t be uncommon for them to run over 25-hill repeats up the steepest of our city’s hills or go for an 80 kilometer run.
The amount of training and commitment needed to prepare for Leadville is mind-boggling to even the most avid runner. Both Williams and Nevitt credit their race crew as an essential component to help them complete this race well under the deadline of 30 hours. Along the route, Cathy Carter, Tyler Reddy and Malcolm Paine provided support along the entire journey of training and race-day. For the first 50-miles of Leadville, the crew helped Williams and Nevitt change footwear, apply sun block, have a change of clothes ready and provided a variety of food and drinks at every aid station.
The clock was ticking, the runners had to keep moving. Having an organized crew enabled the runners to use the rest-stop as a place to sit and refuel, then quickly continue on without having to fumble to find the essentials to keep them going. For the last 50-miles, Williams and Nevitt were allowed to have pacers. Carter (age 40), Reddy (age 28) and Paine (age 74 and tough as nails) all ran impressive distances of this race through difficult terrain, many of the miles in the dark.
They motivated their runners and encouraged them until they reached the finish line. Williams and Nevitt say their friends pacing portions of the last 50-miles were an integral part of their success at Leadville and feel an infinite amount of appreciation and gratitude for their efforts. Anyone who has stayed awake for 24 hours understands how difficult sleep deprivation can be on the body and mind, now imagine running up and down mountains the entire time!
The Leadville race pushes participants to limits most people will never experience, regardless of if you beat the clock or not, Leadville will change you forever.
Michelle Kempton is a half-marathon runner that co-founded the Heart & Sole Running Club (www.heartandsolerunningclub.com) in Dartmouth. Follow her on twitter @runindartmouth or visit her website: www.michellekempton.com
Sunday, May 1, 2011
A Race Across the Sky
John Kirk of Halifax is competing in the Leadville 100 ultramarathon on August 20th in Colorado.
Written by: Michelle Kempton
Published in: Sports Stream
Halifax native Jon Kirk is travelling to Leadville, Colorado where he’ll acclimatize his body to extreme altitudes over the next 3 weeks in preparation for the most challenging race of his extensive running career.
After 6 Ironmans, 20+ marathons and 40+ half-marathons, last summer Kirk set his sights on becoming an ultramarathoner. Kirk committed to spending most of his spare time over the next year training for the Leadville 100 race, which will start in the dark at 4am on August 20, 2011. The Leadville 100 is considered one of the most challenging trail ultramarathons in North America.
Runners have 30 hours to run 100 Miles (160KM) through the Colorado mountains, climbing and descending 15,600 feet on trails and back roads, with elevations starting at 10,200ft above sea level. During the Leadville 100, sleep won’t be an option, oxygen will be a luxury and snow on parts of the trail is likely (even in the middle of the summer).
Finishing isn’t a guarantee for all racers, actually on average only 50% of the participants successfully cross the finish line under the 30 hour time limit. Kirk is confident he’s as prepared as he can be for the challenge.
When asked what the best part about finishing Leadville will be, Kirk says “the bling”. Leadville’s infamous medal for race finishers is a massive belt buckle and without question is the envy of any runner who doesn’t have one but dreams of completing an ultra on day.
To read an frank and honest dialog of Kirk’s training experience visit his blog: See Jon Run
Michelle Kempton lives in Dartmouth and is a co-founder of the Heart and Sole Running Club. Check out their website at www.heartandsolerunningclub.com and follow them on twitter @runindartmouth.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Heartfelt footwork
Social joggers, marathon runners put feet to pavement in new club.
Whether you want to just get out for some fresh air and socialize for a five-kilometre run, or are training for a 20-kilometre marathon, there’s a spot for you at the new Heart & Sole Running Club in Dartmouth.
"We have everybody covered, we have everybody from . . . weekend warriors, who are doing it just to stay fit, and then we have people who compete in races," Michelle Kempton, one of the social running club founders, said in an interview.
"We have a lot of people now training for the Blue Nose (Marathon) that are running with us, different distances. And it’s just a good way to find other people to run with."
(The Blue Nose Marathon is set for May 20-22 in Halifax.)
Joining the club is free. And you don’t have to live in Dartmouth to run with Heart & Sole, but "you do need to be brave enough to tackle our hills," the club website says.
Kempton, of Cow Bay, has struggled with weight issues all her life. When she began running two years ago, she tipped the scales at 250 pounds. But with a lot of hard work, she lost 120 pounds, 85 of which she attributes directly to running.
"It just changes your life and it’s all possible but you do have to take small steps."
Kempton and five other friends, who had been running together, started the club in mid-February.
"And we told a few friends and by word of mouth, it’s just taken off," Kempton said.
Still in its infancy, the club already has 30 to 40 runners showing up each week. To date, most of them are from Dartmouth.
"It’s a support system for each other and because there’s such a mix of people, if you need help or you want to find a running partner, this is an opportunity to do it," Kempton said of the all-weather club.
"It’s a lot easier on cold winter days or rainy spring days to go out and run when you know that there’s friends out there that are going to be with you."
At 9 a.m. each Sunday, they do a nice run around Dartmouth and at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, they either do hill training or speed training at a track and run short distances.
For the hill training, the runners meet at the Sullivans Pond gazebo and run up and down Portland Street. The whole goal of the hill training is to become stronger runners by repeatedly running up and down a hill.
"There’s a power in doing it as a group; it feels good, there’s momentum that you don’t necessarily get when you’re by yourself," Kempton said.
Though they meet and run as a group, each runner is responsible for his/her own safety, training and achieving personal running goals.
"If you have a passion for running, this is the club for you," Kempton said. "It doesn’t matter if you win races or if you’re just doing it on the weekends to run, everybody is welcome."
Heart & Sole Running Club website: www.heartandsolerunningclub.com
Email: heartandsolerunningclub@gmail.com
Friday, January 7, 2011
Across Gambia in 17 days
On July 7th, marathoner Erin Poirier will start her 17-day trek across the West African country of Gambia. She will be stepping across 430 kilometers of challenging African landscape with the primary purpose of raising awareness of HIV and malaria. In order to complete her goal, Poirier will need to run over a half-marathon everyday in the sweltering 40 degree heat. Only a small portion of her route will be on paved roads, most of it will be rough terrain along narrow paths of a riverbank.
Poirier is making significant personal sacrifices for this project. Not only did she commit to extensive training and fundraising over the last year, she also took a leave of absence from work for the month of July. Poirier is exposing herself to potential dangers: extreme rainy season weather conditions, exposing her immune system to dangerous insects and potentially crossing paths with scary monitor lizards.
Over a decade ago, Poirier fell in-love on her first trip to West Africa. But it wasn’t a particular person that stole her heart, but a country and its people. As a nursing-student volunteering with the World University Service of Canada, Poirier witnessed first-hand the benefits the Nova Scotia Gambia Association (NSGA) programs had in the region and how the monies sent from Canada were building stronger communities in Gambia. From that point forward, Poirier was compelled to help NSGA programs thrive and expand its reach to the people in this small West African country.
To date, Poirier’s Love4Gambia project has raised $30,500. In addition to funding education program about AIDS and malaria, Poirier will be delivering smart-phones to schools along her route. These phones will enable the rural schools to collaborate and communicate about their running programs.
The Love4Gambia project has received tremendous support from both individuals and local businesses.
Jason Gray (chiropractor) has been providing 6 months of ART therapy, bio-mechanical training and fine-tuned her legs, which contributes to maintaining her joint health and helped her to not miss a day of training since January.
Aerobics First has supplied Erin with her signature pink Asics for this project. The locally owned sports retailer donated 4 pairs of sneakers that she’ll wear in Africa, supplied Poirier with energy gels, athletic gear appropriate for African heat and was involved with fundraising too. Owner Luke MacDonald, has been her ultimate cheerleader and corporate sponsor.
There is no question Erin’s sneakers will make their mark in West Africa in July and for future generations to hear through stories as villagers will be marveled by this fair skinned woman running through Gambia with her glowing pink Asics.
July 14th will be Erin Poirier’s 31st birthday. She plans to run 31 kilometers that day. In lieu of birthday cards, gifts and facebook wall posts, Erin encourages you to donate $31 towards the Love4Gambia project.
You can follow Poirier’s journey via her website: www.love4gambia.com - updates via facebook and tweets will occur live from Africa!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
New company finds ways to 'unite' local runners
Written by Joanie Veitch
Published in Halifax News Net
It’s a good thing Michelle Kempton and Stacy Chesnutt keep themselves so fit. The two avid runners recently launched United by Running, a new race management company, and are busy planning three new running events for the Halifax area next year.
“It’s been a full-time job planning the business over the past few months, but it’s gotten even busier since we announced the races because the response from runners and supporters has been phenomenal,” Kempton said.
That’s on top of her regular job as a full-time software programmer, being a mother to seven-year-old twin boys, not to mention the co-founder of Heart & Sole Running Club, the crazy-popular running club that has taken Dartmouth by storm over the past year.
Chesnutt’s no slouch either. In October alone the 40-year-old runner won three half-marathons in three different provinces over three consecutive weekends, setting a personal record with a time of 1:26:17 at the Moncton Legs for Literacy event.
“I’m obsessed with running. I absolutely love it,” she said.
Drawing on each of their strengths and interests as runners, Kempton and Chesnutt have created three different running events for 2012.
The first will be Sole Sisters in June, a five-kilometre evening race for women “to celebrate the relationships developed through running and the strength of female runners,” Kempton said.
Next will be the Maritime Marathon. Planned for September, a consistently beautiful month in Nova Scotia, there are a couple of coastline route options being considered for a course that is “sure to showcase the beauty of the East Coast,” Chesnutt said. With a 5-km, 10-km and half-marathon event as well as the full marathon event, this will likely be a top draw for most local runners, and hopefully more than a few from out-of-area as well, she added.
“I travel all over the world for races and I know a lot of people who do the same thing. This is the most beautiful place I’ve ever lived. We want this to become a destination race,” Chesnutt said.
In November the duo will finish off their 2012 series with the Lucky Seven Relay. Racers can either put together their own dream team of three or “try their luck” by being randomly paired with other runners, each of whom will run seven kilometres in the half-marathon event.
“There will be plenty of random prize draws and jackpots too, especially for people who cross the finish line seventh, 77th or 777th!” the organizers said.
Along with a promise of prize draws at all three race events, Kempton and Chesnutt are planning to offer “swag in the race kits, fun contests, designer race shirts, race photos, healthy food, bling at the finish line and prize money” to lure athletes from across the country and around the world. We want these races to be big, bright events. A real celebration of running and community,” Kempton said.
With 28 marathons and too many half-marathons to count under her belt, Chesnutt, who originally hails from Nashville, Tennessee, comes to the planning armed with a long list of dos and don’ts for their events – many of them course related.
A race director for the Benny Bulldog 5K Trail Run in Shubie Park, a fundraising event for the St. Leonards Society, Chesnutt has considerable event management experience as well.
At 38 years old, Kempton, who lives in Cow Bay, has been running for just four years, participating in 30 races and volunteering at even more. Although she modestly calls herself a “middle-of-the-pack runner” she brings an inspirational story of personal triumph, having decided after the birth of her sons to lose weight and shedding 120 lbs, most of which she attributes to running.
“The route and the racing elements are typically my main focus but Michelle has opened my eyes to the whole experience. Together, we make an amazing team,” Chesnutt said.
For more information about United by Running, visit their website at: unitedbyrunning.com