Episode 60

full
Published on:

14th Jun 2021

Running Race Events are Back! – Race Directors Lonnie Somers & Creigh Kelley

Hello Runners, Running race events are back. Yes, and with a vengeance. Boston, New York, Chicago, Tokyo, London, and Colfax marathons are just to name a few coming back this fall. Some of these are predicting 25,000, 30,000, and more runners! Just a few months ago, we were still in the pandemic with no end in sight. That was quick! So how will this work with local governments and CDC guidelines? Well, all of these races are fluid and things can change rather quickly. That is why there are no solid plans in place as of yet. My guests in this episode are two highly respected individuals in the running community. Lonnie Somers, Co-Owner of Hal Sports here in Denver. Lonnie either owns or manages several events not only in Denver but in Colorado and other states. Hal Sports is a full event company. Creigh Kelley has put on over 1,000 running events and is the race director for the Colfax Marathon in Denver. Both Lonnie and Creigh are also racing day announcers. This is a fascinating conversation of where race events were, where they are today, and what they will look like as they evolve post-pandemic. You will go away with a better understanding, appreciation, and respect for Race Directors and running events. Lonnie and Michelle started the Fetal Health Foundation. Twin to Twin Transfusion System (TTTS) should have taken their lives. But the frantic search for information and resources, fetal surgery saved them. Today they are healthy identical twin girls. They created The Great Candy Run and today Hal Sports and dedication to running is their business and passion. Runners, it is getting hot out there as we transition into summer. Remember to take more fluids, run slower in the heat, and try to run earlier in the morning when it is cooler. Thank you for listening to the Feel Good Running Podcast, and please share this with your running friends and on your social media platforms. I would very much appreciate it. Train hard, run harder, and be well. And remember to be kind to others, even if some are not kind to you. It's good for the soul! ~ Jim   SHOW NOTES Hal Sports - Lonnie Somers - Denver, Colorado - Website - FB Page - Instagram Fetal Health Foundation - Lonnie & Michelle's Foundation - Consider a donation The Great Candy Run - Denver, Colorado Colfax Marathon - Denver, Colorado - Website - FB Page - Instagram Lonnie Singing Hey TJ Video - TJ was 30 minutes late to the start line!   Inspirational Running Quote "There is something magical about running; after a certain distance, it transcends the body. Then a bit further, it transcends the mind. A bit further yet, and what you have before you, laid bare, is the soul.” ~Kristin Armstrong   Communicate  Listener feedback is essential to Feel Good Running. Is there a guest you would like us to feature? Do you have any suggestions on how to improve the podcast? Whatever it is, we would like to hear from YOU! Send a personal email to host Jim Lynch.   Subscribe Get on our email list for the Feel Good Running Newsletter. You will receive a gift of 101+ Running-Related Links. All the necessary running links you will need right at your fingertips: Apparel, Podcasts, Training Programs, Publications, and more! Get on the list today! Click Here! Share "Feel Good Running" Podcast Again, I want to thank you for listening to my podcast! You can help out by leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcast, And please share the Feel Good Running Podcast with your friends and on your social media platforms. It would mean the world to me and help the show to grow!
Show artwork for Feel Good Running | For the Everyday Runner!

About the Podcast

Feel Good Running | For the Everyday Runner!
Feel Good Running | For the Everyday Runner!
Feel Good Running is for the everyday runner. No matter if you are a long time runner, a beginner or just thinking about getting into running, you will enjoy each episode. Our goal is to inspire, motivate and even entertain you. Our guests are mostly everyday runners that have amazing stories about their running. There are also weekly news snippets about runners accomplishments that will inspire you. And we always end the show with a motivating running quote! Host Jim Lynch is an avid Feel Good Runner himself. Enjoy the show.

About your host

Profile picture for Jim Lynch

Jim Lynch

I am an accomplished long-distance runner, having completed 101 marathons and earning recognition as a certified 50 States finisher, with a marathon completed in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. I have also completed a 50K ultramarathon in Moab, Utah.

In addition to my athletic achievements, I am a certified Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) race director and support multiple race events each year across Denver and beyond. I currently serve as the course director for the half marathon at the Denver Colfax Marathon. I also collaborate with HAL Sports and Aravaipa Running, contributing to the execution of several high-profile road and trail races.

Previously, I served as race director for the Maui Marathon from 2023 to 2025, following more than a decade of involvement in various leadership and operational roles. I also served as Vice President of Valley Isle Road Runners, supporting and growing the running community in Maui.