Friday, July 31, 2009

August is Here!

July was eventful which is probably why it went by so fast! England, home in Iowa, camp in Elko, NV, and camp back in Iowa....that is a busy month. Now the preparations begin for the '09 cross country season. This will be the youngest team I've ever coached and maybe they youngest in DI this year. We will set challenging, yet realistic goals. We have a wide array of talent and young emerging runners who will need time to develop. I think we are all looking forward to the challenge that awaits. Most importantly we have a great group of young women who are self motivated, love to run, and are tough.

Our team camp begins on August 18th in Park City, UT. It will be a fun time beginning a new season and getting introduced to each other. The beginning of the year is always very hectic, so we will need everyone to be patient and do what we ask them to do.

The anticipation of getting started rises every day, but that's why we do what we do.

Monday, July 20, 2009

"You Found Me"


The Fray came to SLC this past Saturday evening. I went to the show with assistant coaches Burke and Shayla. It was a nice relaxing evening at the amphitheatre. Shayla went to the George Strait concert with some friends the night before. Kenny Chesney comes to town this Thursday night. For a city our size we get some amazing concerts due to all the great venues we have!

Friday, July 17, 2009

I'm Back

Vacation has ended and to steal a line from "Mike and Mike in the Morning"...I'm back and better than ever. All was good at home, but it was time to return from the Kepler Reality Tour. With the cross country team reporting in 30 days I need to make sure I have everything squared away...especially with so many new faces entering our program. I'm looking forward to having really young group again because our returners are good kids and will help them adjust from day one.

I will be helping at two high school cross country camps a few days in the coming weeks. I always enjoy working those events. The interaction that happens with the runners and coaches is very positive. I have worked with these coaches before, so I know the camps will be well organized and the kids will be eager to work and learn.

It's going to be a hot one here in the city this weekend. I hope I find some activities to do that will allow me to stay cool. Enjoy the weekend everybody.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Vacation




After returning from London after five days, I am now in my hometown visiting family and friends.  I have included a few pictures from the village that is Webster City, IA.  It's a town of about 8500 people in north central Iowa.  The pictures include my high school, a park we used to run and go sledding in, and a portion of "downtown."  It hasn't change much, but that is the beauty of a small town. Enjoy.

Friday, July 3, 2009

Yates Finishes Fourth

Sorry for the delay in getting these results up.  I am back in the US and have a better connection again.  

Lucy ran a super race and finished fourth overall in the 800.  Her time of 2:08.71 was the second fastest of her career.  Most importantly she ran an intelligent race.  She went through the 400 at 62.5 and then ran an outstanding backstretch passing two runners and then holding on to fourth in the final 50 meters.  It was exciting to see her have such a successful championship meet and run well in the finals.  She has another meet or two and then will take a short rest before starting to train for our fall cross country season.