AchillesLand

Achilles Christmas Party 2011

2011-12-28T10:16:00.002-06:00

Achilles Christmas Party 2011 - more fun photos

2011-12-28T10:14:00.002-06:00

Achilles Christmas Party 2011 - more fun photos

2011-12-28T10:12:00.002-06:00

Achilles Christmas Party 2011

2011-12-20T10:38:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas from Madison Chapter of Achilles

(How Many Reindeer in the photo above?)

The Fox & The Turkey - Thanksgiving Day Trot brings in nearly 1700 runners

2011-12-07T13:04:00.003-06:00

Captain Kimmer captured above running Batavia, IL Four Miler Thanksgiving morning. (in orange)

More fun Halloween photos - 2011

2011-11-07T15:54:00.002-06:00

Henna the adorable Turtle
Boo - who's this scary Clown?

Halloween 2011 - Scary Folks at Achilles Workout

2011-10-28T13:45:00.005-05:00

"Blowing in the Wind"

Scary Bat girl Karma

"Leave Me out of this"- Rene and "Pigs in a Blanket" Lauri

Achilles Recognizes Captain Kimmer for her 6 Years of Dedicated work in Madison

2011-10-07T09:32:00.001-05:00

Congratulations Achilles Award Winners

2011-10-06T07:35:00.007-05:00

Andy Zallar - Achilles Unsung Hero Award

Dee Sullivan - Achilles Female Attendance Award

Gene Konitzer - Achilles Male Attendance Award

Kathy Ducat - Achilles Female Athlete of the Year

Brad Dakan - Achilles Male Athlete of the Year

More Fun photos from the 6 yr. Anniv Party

2011-10-05T19:56:00.002-05:00

Achilles of Madison Celebrates 6 Year Anniversary

2011-10-05T19:42:00.016-05:00

The Achilles Team celebrates their 6 years together with a Grand Party!!

Brain Injury Walk for Thought - 2011

2011-10-03T08:37:00.001-05:00

Karma and Kimmer Salute the Brain Injury Walk 2011

Brain Injury Walk for Thought - 2010

2011-09-30T15:41:00.003-05:00

Just found this wonderful photo for last year's walk at the Madison Zoo - wanted to share it.

Welcome New Member - Patty's Guide Dog Kannon

2011-08-12T12:50:00.003-05:00

Patty's new Guide Dog: Kannon

Age: 18 months

Female Black Lab

Madison Achilles Members at USA Track & Field Masters Nationals

2011-08-07T17:13:00.006-05:00

July 27-31st, 2011
Cleveland, OH
USA Track and Field Master's Nationals

Kathy Ducat throws 500 gram Javelin- sets a new personal record (PR)

Captain Kimmer throwing Javelin too - brings home Bronze medal.

Jim Cunningham throwing the Hammer - sets a new PR!

Jimmy sets new PR in 1.5kg discus throw too!

Achilles Capitol Mile - July 24, 2011

2011-07-26T15:33:00.004-05:00

A great day, a great time by all - here are some awesome photos taken by photographer Paul McMahon-Heartland Images.

Memory Walk in Honor of our Fallen Angel Michael Roberts - Aug 2010 (Batman Lives!)

Capitol View Tri - June 12th 2011

2011-07-12T14:26:00.003-05:00

Achilles athletes once again take the jump into Lake Mendota and enjoy a fun Triathlon.

Green Bay CellCom Half Marathon

2011-07-12T13:00:00.003-05:00

Jim, Kathy,her brother Tim and daughter all enjoyed a great half-marathon on May 15th.

Jim and Kathy enjoy Ski for Lite this Feb 2011

2011-03-31T06:58:00.001-05:00

More of Brad and Birkie 2011

2011-03-02T19:26:00.003-06:00

At first I thought this would be my only year doing this event but now after completing it I look forward to doing better next year. (I think he's got the bug )

Brad Dakan - Birkie 2011

2011-03-02T15:07:00.004-06:00

Brad states "the race itself was a lot of fun to be a part of". Several able bodies racers gave me words of encouragement as they passed by me - it boosted my energy level. The race was only a 3K but it felt much longer and I'm grateful for my student helpers that helped with some pushes every so often to get me over some small hills - it gave my arms a needed break.

Super Bowl 2011 - Packers WIN!!!

2011-02-19T19:50:00.001-06:00

Karma loves the Packers!!

Just a couple fun shots from the Super Bowl win -Karma and I celebrate!

(notice fun blue cast #4 - not!)

University of Wisconsin - ROSE BOWL 2011

2011-01-29T15:30:00.003-06:00

Some of our Lucky members enjoy going to the Rose Bowl Game!

Jenniffer and her day cheer on the Badgers with Bucky!

2010 a Year to Remember

2010-12-27T06:35:00.002-06:00

We had quite an incredible year of accomplishments. I want to take a look back at this year -and give out congratulations, special thanks and remembrance.

Special thanks to 2 great volunteers that have helped me out immensely the past 5+ years. Gwenn Davies has been with me since starting Achilles and stuck with me thru it all these years.
Rene Cromer has been my right hand man over and over again - helping organize and run all the Achilles parties and run two Hope & Possibility 5K races in Madison. I couldn't have done it without these two wonderful gals.
Thanks to my volunteers (Ruth and Jennifer) who took two athletes and two service dogs to New York to participate in the annual Hope & Possibility 5 Miler with Prince Harry.
Special recognition to our first time Triathletes who competed in the Capital View Triathlon in June - Brad D., Kathy D., Jim C., Betty M. and Dana J.
Congratulations to Brad Carlson for finishing his "Wisconsin 1 Step at a Time" and writing his book.
Congratulations to Brad Dakan for another incredible finish time in his 3rd New York City Marathon!
Congratulations to newly weds: Bradley and Edna, Kathy and Jim
Warm thanks and congrats to everyone involved for putting on our 2nd Annual Hope & Possibility 5K here in Madison and welcoming back special guest Trisha Meili.
Big welcome to many new members and volunteers: Holly, Naomi, Jessie, Kathy R and Jamie R.
With deepest Sympathy I note the passing of a wonderful friend, father, husband, son and Achilles member - Michael Roberts. Always in our thoughts and never forgotten Michael.We love you!!!

Achilles Holiday Celebration 2010

2010-12-23T21:05:00.012-06:00

The group goes crazy decorating themselves with the table TREES!

Kimmer and Karma wishing everyone a Happy Holiday Season!

Dee visits with Retired Vortex - Nov 2010

2010-12-08T06:54:00.007-06:00

Vortie is in his glory with both Dee and Karen fawning over him at his retirement home.

Brad Conquers NYC Marathon again - 2010!

2010-12-08T06:41:00.004-06:00

Renee cheers on Brad this year at Marathon.

Brad showing us that Infamous Medal he earned.

Haunted Hustle 10K - Oct 30th, 2010

2010-10-30T17:45:00.000-05:00

Achilles Athletes Jim, Kathy and Kim have a ball running the 10K in Middleton.

Have you seen these "Three Blind Mice"? Or perhaps the Black Cat?

Achilles Celebrates Halloween 2010 at workout

2010-10-28T20:30:00.002-05:00

Have you seen these scary Witches? or how bout that K9 Cop and that criminal in Orange?
Who's cutier the tortoise or the Hare? close call.....

Here's a fun group shot of the rowdy gang enjoying some Halloween spirits in the Air!!!

Madison Magazine - H&P Photos make Oct 2010 Edition

2010-10-11T10:26:00.002-05:00

Madison Hope & Possibility race photos make the October edition of Madison Magazine. Recognize these gals for our Achilles Family? Trisha Meili, Dawn, Eileen and Rene'.

Judith: A journey in sound and feel

2010-10-06T09:01:00.000-05:00

BIAW Brain Walk - Oct 2nd thru the Madison Zoo

2010-10-04T18:32:00.006-05:00

Did you hear the Lions roar at the Zoo? Little Elizabeth sure did and went hi-tailing it out of there!

Ruby is just a bit shy but thinks she's a lap dog - lucky for her Allegra is strong!

Enjoying a fun picnic together after the walk thru the Zoo.

Dee, Henna, Kathy Rust and Ezra enjoyed the sunshine and brisk walk with BIAW.

It was sure cold in the morning - a hint of snowflakes soon to come.

Judith Rasmussen - Bike Ride of a Lifetime

2010-10-01T07:50:00.003-05:00

Judith got an invitation to ride a tandem bike from Madison to Chicago. What an incredible journey for her. Here's her video and her story- click on "Bike Ride of a Lifetime".

In Memory of a Special Man - Michael Roberts

2010-08-26T21:00:00.001-05:00

Michael you were loved by all that touched your life, you loved life itself, you were a fighter, an incredible husband, father and friend- we all miss you so much! Till we meet again....run with the Wolves.

Thursday Dinner Celebration at Salad Creations

2010-07-30T13:37:00.002-05:00

What a fun dinner at Eileen and Brandon's place this Thursday!

Hope & Possibility Race Day - July 25th 2010

2010-07-25T23:00:00.000-05:00

Just a few images from an incredible day!

Trisha's B-day Celebration Day

2010-07-24T16:00:00.000-05:00

Out for a Kayak on Lake Monona and Birthday Cake (a day late)

Achilles H&P Potluck Dinner

2010-07-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

The group celebrating at our Hope & Possibility Potluck

2nd Annual Madison Hope & Possibility 5K Run/Walk

2010-07-06T16:15:00.010-05:00

Sunday July 25th, 2010 at 1pm
Course Location: Madison Capitol Square

Start Line: Corner of State St. & E. Mifflin 5 Laps around Capitol Square

$20 pre-registration fee

For more information call Kim at 828-9700 or e-mail at kvirden@tds.net

Back Again

2010-07-06T13:48:00.004-05:00

It's been just about a year since I posted to this blog...hmmmm.....that's me and Rosie at the new barn riding in the outdoor arena last week...

Wedding Congratulations to Jim and Kathy

2010-07-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

Big Congratulations to the new couple - July 3, 2010

Team Wisconsin participates in NYC Hope & Possibility 5 Miler

2010-06-28T08:05:00.010-05:00

Left: members reunite with Trisha Meili.

Team Wisconsin on Race Morning!

Achilles Athletes turn into Triathletes - Capitol View Tri June 13, 2010

2010-06-14T16:09:00.000-05:00

Trish Interviewed on Madison News

2009-07-31T11:24:00.003-05:00

Trish Interview

Trish & Kim - TV Stars

2009-07-31T11:22:00.002-05:00

On TV Promoting the Hope and Possibility Race in Madison

Dee and Henna made the news (again!)

2009-07-31T11:19:00.003-05:00

Dee and Henna - TV Stars

Race Results for Achilles Heroes & Others!

2009-07-31T11:01:00.009-05:00

All Results!

Happy Birthday August 2009 Babes!

2009-07-31T10:47:00.003-05:00

Michael R (aka Batman) - August 3
Brad D. - August 7
Dee S. - August 9
Alan H. - August 22

Hip Hip Hurray!

2009-07-31T10:41:00.005-05:00

Achilles Hope & Possibility 5K - July 26, 2009

First Hope & Possibility Run in Madison WI!

2009-07-07T12:30:00.015-05:00

Special Guest: Trisha Meili (Central Park Jogger ) will start us and run the course!

Sunday July 26, 2009 at 1:00 p.m.
Course Location: Madison Capitol Square
Start Line: Corner of State St & E. Mifflin
5 laps around Capitol Square
Register at www.active.com
$20 pre-registration
For more information, contact Kim @ 608.828.9700
Division and categories for abled-bodies and disabled-bodies (top 3 medals)

Registration Form - Print out!

Brad's Marathon Photos

2009-06-24T15:52:00.004-05:00

Monica's Marathon Photos

2009-06-24T15:43:00.005-05:00

Congratulation Marathon Athletes

2009-06-24T12:23:00.008-05:00

Brad D. Madison Time at 2:35, NY Marathon Time at 3:27:30

Monica Madison Time at 2:48 , NY Marathon Time at 3:07:56

Kathy D Madison Time at 5:47, NY Marathon Time at at 6:01:11

Jim C Madison Time at 5:02, NY Marathon Time at at 5:04:58

And, a big THANK YOU to Kathy's Guide Molly J.

Happy Birthday July 2009 Babes!

2009-06-24T12:10:00.002-05:00

A warm and happy birthday to our July Baby Achilles Members:

Gwen D. - 7
Lauri B. - 15
Liz the Dog - 17
Stephanie W. - 18

Hawaiian Luau Party June 2009

2009-06-24T12:03:00.004-05:00

Bratfest 2009

2009-05-19T10:17:00.007-05:00

Brat fest volunteers:

Linda, Michael, & Allegra R. 5/23 4-6:15 p.m.
Eileen & Brandon C. 5/24 9-2:15 pm & 5/25 9-2:15 pm
Brad D. & Mari G. 5/24 noon -2;15 pm
Rene C. - 5/22 noon-4:15 pm
Lauri B. -5/22 noon - 2:15 pm

Bratfest Info

Please be sure to park in the designated area and remember to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your shift in order to sign in and get your t-shirt and name tag.

Cheer leaders needed!

2009-05-19T10:07:00.003-05:00

Madison Marathon - May 24 2009
Our Achilles members that are participating are:
(come and cheer them on at the start, anytime during, and at the finish!)

Monica KR & Brad D - start @ 7:25 a.m. - finish @ 10:00 to 10:30 a.m.
Kathy D & Jim C - start @ 7:30 a.m. - finish @ noon to 12:30 p.m. (Jim), Kathy 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Info on the Madison Marathon

Happy Birthday June Babes 2009!

2009-05-19T09:43:00.003-05:00

Michon O. - 1
Andy Z. - 6
Tony D. - 12
Lynne W. - 20
Trisha M. - 24
Rene C. - 25

Happy Birthday May Babes!

2009-05-07T09:16:00.006-05:00

Celebrate the May birthdays of our Achilles Members:

Christine D. May 1
Judy E. May 10
Debbie S. May 19

and Carlee the Wonder Dog May 23

Birthday Bob's Celebration March 28

2009-04-28T10:44:00.002-05:00

Parkinson Walk April 26, 2009

2009-04-28T08:40:00.002-05:00

Congratulations for the Achilles Team! Way to go!

Cascade Moutain

2009-04-20T11:22:00.002-05:00

Bruce had a blast! at Cascade Mountain in Feb. 2009

Thank you Fleet Feet

2009-04-06T10:30:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Bob and Renee

2009-04-06T10:00:00.004-05:00

A New Grandson!

Capt'n Kimmer Skiing Steamboat Springs

2009-04-01T11:24:00.002-05:00

This past weekend:

Happy Birthday Aprils!

2009-04-01T11:16:00.003-05:00

The Achilles Family wishes the Achilles Babes a Happy, Happy Birthday:

Allegra - 11th
Bruce L. - 26th

DawnZ Rock Climbing

2009-04-01T11:02:00.004-05:00

Yikes!

DawnZ at Purgatory Mountain!

2009-04-01T10:52:00.005-05:00

Skiing on Purgatory Mountain with the Adapted Sports Program at Durango Ski Resort. My first time skiing in the mountains. An incredible experience! The instructors and volunteers in the adapted ski program were the best, and the scenery was breathtaking. Enjoy these photos from DawnZ's Big Adventure!

Capt'n Kimmer Skiing again!

2009-03-18T10:24:00.003-05:00

Nastar racing at Afton Alps, Hastings, Minnesota

Hope & Possiblity in Madison!

2009-03-17T11:42:00.002-05:00

Almost a certainty...

When: Saturday July 25, 2009

More information to come.

Capt'n Kimmer is looking for Achilles Artists to design the Mapison H&P tee-shirt

Thank you from Michael R.

2009-03-17T11:36:00.003-05:00

Michael R. says a big thank you for the cards, calls, and visits during his recent stay in the hospital. (posting by Rosie the horse)

March Birthday Babies

2009-03-17T11:33:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday March Babes!

Ruth P. - 8
Jim C. - 15
Bob C. - 28
Judy R. - 30

Congrats to Karma

2009-03-17T11:27:00.003-05:00

Karma received her "Official Certification" papers! She passed with flying colors!

Get Well Wishes to Cecilia C.

2009-03-17T11:24:00.001-05:00

Disablility Conference

2009-03-17T11:20:00.002-05:00

The McBurney Speakers Bureau and Accessibility Advocates Present:

What: Eye-Opening Perspectives: A Disability Awareness Conference
When: Saturday March 28, 2009
Where: UW Campus: Grainger 5120 and MSC Satellite, Gordon Commons

Schedule:
12:15 to 1:15 Deaf Culture panel at Grainger 5120
1:30 to 2:30 International Perspectives of Disability panel at Grainger 5120
1:30 to 2:30 Sex and Disability workshopat Grainger Hall, TBD
2:45 to 3:45 Historical Perspectives of Disability at Grainger 5120
4:00 to 5:00 Disability and the Media at Grainger 5120
5:15 to 6:00 Rep. Tammy Baldwin, Keynote Speakerat Grainger 5120
8:30 Film Showing, "Murderball" at MSC Satellite, Gordon Commons

Feel free to sign up for one workshop, two, or the whole day!
For more information or to register, go to
http://www.mcburney.wisc.edu/information/eyeopening.php
Registration closes on March 23rd. Space is limited!

Please request accommodations when you register

Thank you TDS

2009-03-17T11:13:00.003-05:00

Great News: TDS has given us a 1000 dollar grant for this year!

Parkinson Walk

2009-03-17T11:08:00.004-05:00

When: April 26, 2009, Sunday
Where: East Towne Mall Madison, 89 East Towne Mall
Registration Begins: 11:00 a.m.
Program Begins: 12:45 p.m.
Walk Begins: 12 noon

Parkinson Walkathon

No cost to Achilles Members and we will again (for the 3rd time) lead the walk!

Photos from last year

Fleet Feet Grand Re-Opening

2009-03-17T10:41:00.003-05:00

When: Week of March 30 though April 5, 2009

Fleet Feet will be donating 5% or their proceeds from sales to the Achilles Track Club of Madison.

Fleet Feet Running Store

Vortex's Retirement Party

2009-03-17T10:37:00.006-05:00

Lori takes on Service Dogs

2009-02-11T09:11:00.004-06:00

Read the vest - "Please Don't Pet Me - One of us has to work"

Disabled Sit Ski Program

2009-02-03T14:58:00.005-06:00

Seminar & Ski Lessons
When: Saturday, February 14, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
When: Sunday, February 15, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The Madison Winter Festival will offer a Sit Ski Program for people with physical disabilities.

Participants can attend a seminar at the Wisconsin Veterans Museum followed by a skiing session on the Capitol Square.

Equipment will be provided.

Volunteers will instruct and assist with lifts and transfers for skiers on both days.

Please RSVP with name and contact information for you and guest(s) to Irina Komarova at

irina@winter-fest.co

Photo is Rosie and Linda SkiJoring (in their dreams!)

Jackson Hole and Capt'n Kimmer 2009

2009-02-02T10:43:00.004-06:00

The rest of us can live vicariously!

Faithful Friend, Vortex

2009-02-02T10:18:00.005-06:00

What: Retirement Party for Dee's Vortex
When: Feb 22, 2009 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Harmony Bar, 2201 Atwood Avenue, Madison WI, 608.249.433
Why: Celebrate Vortex's birthday on Feb 12 - he turns 12, and celebrate his years of faithful service for Dee

The kitchen will be open for yummies.
No gifts necessary, though if you insist, please check with Dee for food treats, and Vortex loves to unwrap
Henna, Vortex's replacement will be there, waiting to me you.
If the weather is questionable, use common sense! Please!

Newsworthy Achilles Members

2009-01-23T14:23:00.004-06:00

Click to read their stories - Good Job ladies!

Patty Z. and Carlee
Judy R. and Braille

Happy Birthday February 2009 Babes!

2009-01-23T10:06:00.003-06:00

A warm Happy Birthday from the Achilles Family:

Terry S. (Roni's better half) - Feb 7
Patty Z. - Feb 24

Get Well! Chari H.

2009-01-05T11:06:00.004-06:00

It's not fun having a broken leg - get better.
We miss you. Your Achilles Family.

Chari is at:
Meriter Hospital, Room 371
202 S. Park St.
Madison, WI 53715

Happy New Year Birthdays in January 2009

2008-12-23T10:34:00.010-06:00

A warm and Happy Birthday wish to old and new Madison Achilles Members:

Capt'n Kimmer - Jan 1
Paula VE. - Jan 7
Courtney C. - Jan 15
Mary H. - Jan 16
Monica R. - Jan 19
Cecilia C. - Jan 20
Judith R. - Jan 22
Jennifer D. - Jan 25

You lucky January babies, here are some facts about January:

January Monthly Observances:

Bath Safety Month
Birth Defects Prevention Month
Sponsored by The March of Dimes
Blood Donor Month (National Volunteer)
Sponsored by the American Association of Blood Bank
January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month
Book Blitz Month (National)
Business & Reference Books Month
Careers in Cosmetology Month (National)
Cervical Health Awareness Month (National)
Sponsored by the National Cervical Cancer Coalition
Clown Month
Crime Stoppers Month
Coffee Gourmet Month (International)
Diet Month, Fat-Free Living Month, Lose Weight & Feel Great Month
Eye Health Care Month (National)
Fiber Focus Month (National)
Glaucoma Awareness Month
Sponsored by Prevent Blindness America
Hobby Month (US National)
Human Resource Month
Letter Writing Month (US National)
Oatmeal Month (US National)
Poverty in America Month
Prune Breakfast Month
Radio Month (US National)
Retail Bakers Month
School Board Month (US National)
Soup Month (US National)
Stamp Collectors Month (US National)
Tea Month (US National) - a/k/a Hot Tea Month
Thyroid Disease Awareness Month

Holiday Party 2008

2008-12-15T17:55:00.006-06:00

Halloween Rosie & Linda

2008-11-18T15:48:00.002-06:00

2008 Holiday Party

2008-11-18T14:26:00.006-06:00

Dec 13th, Saturday at 5pm

Sign-up with Capt'n Kimmer
At Wisconsin Trade Center located in Greenway Station, Middleton.
Bring friends and/or family
It's a potluck
Examples:

- Meat Dish (example: meatloaf, meat lasagna)
- Vegetarian Dish (vegetarian lasagna, casserole)
- Vegetable/Starch Dish (steamed carrots, potato casserole)
- Dessert (anything with chocolate, pumpkin pie, cookies)
- Drinks (12-pack of soda, bottle of wine)
- Appetizer (cheese platter, chips n dip)

Congrats from Fleet Feet Madison

2008-11-18T14:19:00.003-06:00

Congrats Achilles Marathoners!

A special group of athletes was among the 38,000 runners racing the New York City Marathon this past weekend on November 2nd. The Madison Chapter of the Achilles Track Club sent four handcyclists and two runners, all of whom finished the race. Monica Kamal Rossa, Peter Greenwood, Brad Dakan, Dawn Ziegler, Kathy Ducat, and Jim Cunningham proudly represented Madison Achilles. A national organization, Achilles aims to enable people with all types of disabilities to participate in mainstream athletics, promote personal achievement, enhance self esteem, and lower barriers. As many of you know it is challenging to participate in a marathon, but these athletes face some additional obstacles, and we wanted to share their experiences.

Kathy Ducat, a visually impaired runner from Madison, had this to say about her marathon experience:

"It was 100% wonderful from the beginning of my training to the recovery of my aching legs! . . . The morning of the race was beautifully chilly. We caught a bus which took us an hour just to get to Staten Island. As we crossed the bridge, the sun rose above the skyline shining warmly on those who accepted this marathon challenge. . . . My team of guides decided to call us Kathy's Curds. Kim Virden, our Madison Achilles Chapter Founder, ran the first 8 miles with us. Jim, my partner, also outfitted in his Madison Achilles singlet, ran with us the first 5 miles. From that point on, it was Diane Pasquaretta of Falmouth, MA, and Lisa Sher of Boston, MA parting the sea of clothes, cups, and even runners in order to safely guide me down the roads. At most times one of the guides would hold one end of a rope and I would hold the other. The guide not holding the rope would run ahead and tell the crowd my name. By the time I approached, the fans were all shouting encouragement using my name "Go Kathy!!!". That was powerful. Lisa and Diane would tell me about the sites they could see along our route. It was fun to get an idea of just how much distance we were covering. . . . I've got to say, it was painful working my way through the miles. My guides were really doing a super job trying to keep me going forward. During the last half mile, they kept me running. 'No matter if you walk or run, everything hurts at this point, so you may as well go for it'."

Brad Dakan, a t-4 paraplegic handcyclist, also shared his race-day experience with us:

"The NY Marathon was a great experience for me. This was my first marathon and I plan on doing many more. New York is a big city with a lot of big hearted people and they created an atmosphere that made me feel welcome to their city. The beginning of the race was very cold and quiet going over the bridge, but once i crossed over it and heard their cheers of encouragement it brought a tear to my eye and it became a pleasure to ride through their city. Once I entered the Central Park area my arms finally warmed up and i couldn't stop smiling knowing i made it to the end. I only wish there was a way to say thanks to everyone in New York for their support."

Again, we want to extend congratulations to Brad, Kathy, and all of the Achilles athletes. To learn more about this great organization visit Achilles Track Club.

Madison Achilles at 2008 NYC Marathon

2008-11-18T13:22:00.006-06:00

Wow - what can I say about our incredible Achilles athletes from Madison?

I'm so very, very proud of all of them!!! They all finished the marathon and did just an incredible job - what a day!!!

I wish the entire Madison Team could have been there to see them finish - but I know you all were from here - cheering them on, giving them strength and spirit to get thru the day.

Again - I am so very proud of each of our athletes, getting thru the cold morning, no crashes, no problems along the way but a few blisters.

Handcyclist:

Monica KamalRossa Finishing Time: 3:07:56 (6th female overall for handcycle division)

Peter Greenwood Finishing Time: 3:15 ish (sorry I didn't get his true time, something in this area)

Brad Dakan Finishing Time 3:27:30

Dawn Ziegler Finishing Time 8:46:41 (our incredible athlete of the race!)

Runners:

Kathy Ducat Finishing Time 6:01:11
Jim Cunningham Finishing Time 5:04:58

Each of these athletes were doing their very first marathon, and very first NYC Marathon, with the exception of Mr. Pete (he's our veteran marathoner with 7 races and his 4th NYC)!

Congrats to you all - and not enough thanks can go out to family members, guides and volunteers. Without you these great athletes couldn't of done it....you are so very appreciated for all your dedication, hard work and encouragement!!!

Thanks you to each: Stephanie W., Bob R., Jim D., Melissa and Ruth (Dawn's helpers) and Rene C. for helping us with misc task and "the dogs".

One last note - not enough thanks can go out to Achilles International members from New York City. They really helped us incredibly: Dick Traum, Mary Bryant, Gerle, Joe Traum, Russell, Janet, Anne and many more.

- Captain Kimmer

Happy Birthday December 2008 Babes

2008-11-18T13:18:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday December Achilles Babes:

Gene K. - Dec. 2
Dawn Z. - Dec.11
Mary C. - Dec. 21

November 2008 Birthdays

2008-11-18T12:41:00.002-06:00

Happy, happy birthday to the November Achilles Babes:

Pete G. - Nov 16
Roni M. - Nov 12

Pizza Party

2008-10-14T13:30:00.002-05:00

November 9th, Sunday
Time: 5 pm
Location: Rocky Rococo's on Mineral Point, next to Brothers Main and the Beltline
Cost: $10/person and $5/child
Fun, food, companionship, and celebration!
Feel free to invite family and friends

Please RSVP to Capt'n Kimmer

"Family" Photos of Fun

2008-10-09T15:01:00.006-05:00

Dashboard

Count down for the Achilles 6

2008-10-08T08:10:00.005-05:00

Keep on training - breath in, breath out! go Achilles!

Just a few weeks until the NYC Marathon. These 6 have been training hard:

Kathy D., Jim C., Dawn Z., Brad D., Monica KR., and Pete G.

Coming Fun Activities

2008-09-30T09:03:00.004-05:00

1. Brain Injury Assoc of Wisconsin – Milwaukee Zoo Walk, Oct 4^th
2. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) walk Sunday, October 5 at Olin-Turville Park
3. Brad C's Bowl-A-Vard Sunday October 26
4. Post Marathon Achilles Party - November 8 or 9

October Birthdays

2008-09-23T13:41:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to the October Babes:

Linda R. 10/1
Stav S. 10/8
Char L. 10/9
Katy D. 10/10
Molly J. 10/20
Tom B. 10/29
Phil K. 10/31

Congrats to Lynn for Marathon Finish

2008-09-23T13:36:00.002-05:00

A big round of applause and shouts galore to Lynn who finished the Communities First Fox Cities Marathon