RUNNER SPOTLIGHT: CHRIS WADE

“Life is a blast – I love it!”

Chris Wade certainly wears a lot of hats, pastor, husband, father and teacher; but after a heart attack in 1996, he added the role of trail runner to his resume and has never looked back. After pulling a hamstring before last year’s XTERRA Thrill in the Hills half-marathon, Chris is back in full force to take on the race this year in Winder, GA  on March 1st. Recently finishing the XTERRA Runnin’ the Rocks 10k Trail Run in Conyers, GA, Chris tells us why he hits the trails.

Home: Dallas, GA
Family: Wife Heather, son Brennan, and daughter Halle
Occupation: Pastor/teacher

XTERRA: How long have you been running?
About 12 years and that started everything for me, mountain biking, adventure races…etc. It just changed how I viewed fitness.

XTERRA: When did you start trail running?
I started running after my heart attack in 1996 and haven’t stopped since.

XTERRA: What is the best part about trail running?
Running for me is pure adventure. Being outside and experiencing God’s creation is my way of escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is my way of relaxing!

XTERRA: What motivates you to run?
Running allows me to have a better perspective on the quality of life that I desire to maintain. It helps me to fulfill my desire to live a long, healthy life so that I may have more time with my family. It also allows me to challenge myself physically in order to better enjoy the adventure of it all.

XTERRA: What advice would you give others just starting in the world of trail running?
I would love to tell them to just get out and enjoy the experience and not to push themselves too hard. Trail running is a lot different from road running, and that’s why I love it!

XTERRA: What makes up your running schedule?
I run about 15 to 20 miles a week and cross train by biking and weight training.

XTERRA: Where is your favorite place to go trail running?
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. It is hard to believe that such a beautiful piece of nature is near busy Atlanta.

XTERRA: How does trail running help you in other areas of life?
The challenge of trail running is a lot like the challenge of life. Just because the trail is tough should not be used as an excuse to give up! Just like life, when things are tough, we should not give up. We should stand up to the challenge and push until we accomplish our goal!

XTERRA: What XTERRA events have you competed in?
1. XTERRA Arrowhead Trails Triathlon in Macon, GA
2. XTERRA Southeast Championship Triathlon in Pelham, AL
3. XTERRA Runnin’ the Rocks Trail Run 10k in Conyers, GA

XTERRA: What is your favorite XTERRA memory?
At the XTERRA Southeast Championship, it was seeing my 3-month old daughter cheering for me. It was wonderful! I also enjoyed talking with other likeminded people at the event.

What XTERRA event are you training for now?
I am currently training for this year’s XTERRA Thrill in the Hills Xduro half-marathon in March and hope to have the opportunity to participate in future XTERRA triathlons.

XTERRA trail runs are…?
These runs encompass everything I appreciate in life – adventure, challenge and a sense of accomplishment!

Thanks for sharing your story Chris. Good luck at the XTERRA Thrill in the Hills Xduro!

INJURY FREE TRAIL RUNNING

By Dr. Daniel C. Batchelor

Ever since I was a little boy, I've loved to run trails. Even now, several times per week, rain or shine, I average 5 miles per session at a local mountain. My dog loves it also as it is easy on his pads and great for his mind and body.

I love to train and race on trail terrain. In fact, 95% of my training is done on trails. I am fortunate to live near a perfect area for trail running. Running on trails, wood chips, dirt, grass, pine needles etc help to prevent the usual overuse syndromes that are prevalent in concrete and asphalt runners.

Since most of my runs are on grass, trails, or soft surfaces, this creates less impact than running on concrete or asphalt or treadmills. Not only is it better for your legs but you will be running with plants, trees, birds, and the glory of nature.

On the pavement, you have to deal with exhaust, constantly off centered hard surfaces, cars, bikes, curbs, intersections and pedestrians.

Over the past 40 years, I have run over 60,000 miles and have won over 350 road races. Many of my chiropractic patients ask me how I am able to stay so injury free for so many years. The answer is simple. Cross training, stretching, rest, following a specific mileage and speed regime, genetics, chiropractic, massage, diet, and running on soft trails.

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GEAR UP FOR RACE SEASON

With the running season already underway, make sure you are ready for your upcoming race series with XTERRA gear. From wind-resistant jackets to water bottles, XTERRA has everything to help you train and get back on the trails.

WWW.XTERRAGEAR.COM

UP NEXT: XTERRA THRILL IN THE HILLS - 21K

XTERRA Thrill in the Hills March 1, 2008 - Winder, GA

XTERRA returns to Georgia with an Xduro challenge, a 21k test of stamina and athletic performance. Completing the race in 3 hours or less automatically qualifies contenders to compete in the XTERRA Trail Running National and World Championship races.

WWW.DIRTYSPOKES.COM