We are so proud and excited to have Kate Grace representing Oiselle at the Olympic Trials in the 800m. We interviewed her over the web and here's what she had to say. Time to get to know Kate Grace!

What got you into running?
Soccer, actually. High school, freshman year, we had to compete in cross country meets for cardio training. I still remember the first race. We didn't practice with the xc team, so it was the first time I had met their coach. He had us all doing drills, warmup stuff, and something about my form impressed him. He said I had nice gait -- Kate with the great gait -- and that I was going to be a runner. 

I wound up getting second in that meet. It took them over a year to finally convince me to put track training above soccer, but I eventually came to the dark side.

my first 1k? This was taken in the town where I grew up, Santa Monica, CA. I'm number 79, with my mom and younger sister.

Where do you train and live?
I train with the New Jersey New York Track Club, under famed coach Frank "Gags" Gagliano. A group of us live in Annandale, New Jersey, and everyone in the club meets to run our track workouts in New Brunswick, at Rutgers.

People ask why a west coast girl would stay on the east for running. Reasons number 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are Gags. He's just that good. But the east has also become my home over the past four years. I went to school here, I became an elite runner here, and a lot of my support networks are in this area, be it from Yale, my college coach, or friends living nearby.

sophomore year, after placing third at state finals, and dropping twenty seconds in the 800 over about a month (on the right, in purple)

What do you like least/most about training for the Trials?
I have never had such a singular goal. It's a wonderful feeling. To wake up every morning and work toward attaining it. It's been great running more mileage and higher-volume workouts with Gags. That is something that I didn't test much in college.

How do I make a negative out of this? I love most aspects of training. Maybe the number of showers I have to take throughout the day? Ha!

Other than race, what are you looking forward to doing in Eugene?
Party! No. Joke. Gags would not like that -- he already thinks I go into the city too much. Am I allowed to say I'm pretty pumped for MC Hammer at the Oiselle fashion show? That's still a party! How about ... seeing other athletes compete as I watch quietly in the stands. 

the reservoir near my house in New Jersey -- nice vista for a run

When did you know you had "it"?
Track has always been fun. I love training, I love competing. I love running with people and without. Maybe there wasn't a specific point when I had "it," just never a point that I didn't. 

A big leap did come sophomore year of high school, when I started thinking of myself as a source of untapped potential, and a mid-distance specialist. There was a period of 5 races during the championship season, where I dropped 3-5 seconds each time, to win every one, and go from a 2:30 pb to a 2:11.

Fun fact, we used to run all our high-school meets at the Occidental College track. That's where I first started that rise to the next level. And a few weeks ago, I was back for the first time in 5 years, running another big 800 pr, 2:01.6, at the High Performance meet. How’s that for coming full circle!

Is there a mantra that keeps you going?
If you opened my laptop last fall, you’d see a black screen and the words: "THE IMPORTANT THING IS THIS: TO BE WILLING AT ANY MOMENT TO SACRIFICE WHAT WE ARE FOR WHAT WE COULD BECOME." Good for a girl leaving her home of 5 years to move to rural New Jersey and train for a dream. 

A few weeks ago, I changed it to a web comic I like, with the phrase: "It's later than you think. Go ahead and f*** up. No room or time for timidity!"

But if you really want to get me moving, a good song. "Rockin' Robin," specifically. I’ve been bopping around to that one for weeks.

my roommate, ashley, and me ice-bathing after a run

What other runners inspire you?
My training partners. Sometimes literally - physically dragging me out of bed on a few occasions. I live with Ashley Higginson. Steeple extraordinaire. We new each other from meets in college, and she has been my rock this year.

As for people not living on my block, I look to similarities for motivation. Like Morgan Uceny -- the Ivy Leaguer improving post-college. Sometimes on solo runs, I do visualization track. I picture myself in a big race, and what it feels to be right behind, then next to, some of the women at the top of the field. Alysia Montaño, Jenny Simpson, you name it. My imaginary running buddies! I know, a bit crazy.

What's a favorite memory from HS running? College?
High school: definitely when my cross country team won the California State title my senior year. My two best friends and I grew up with the program, had the best relationship with our coach, helped nurture younger runners, and saw our team improve with each year. There was this great arc, from that first cross country meet in 9th grade, for soccer training, to a wonderful, cohesive group that was firing on all cylinders. We won state as a team the same year I won individually. First time in the history of our school. We felt such a part of that improvement.

College: proudest race moment was a fourth place finish in the 4x4. 4x4s help remind me that kicking can happen at any time, over any distance. Bolt seems to kick in 100s. It's simply a belief that the race is not done until someone crosses that line. I had a mean kick in a 4x4.

I ran the fastest 400 split of my life in that race. Passed two people early, and was gunning for 3^rd. She had taken the baton maybe 30 meters ahead. With 20 to go I had made up the distance, was a stride away. The final push to go ahead was feet from the line and just over my edge. My legs seized and I fell. She crossed the line first. There is still this big scar from a huge gash on my right knee. I am so proud of that scar. It's a reminder that I can push my body beyond its limits. (Is that the name of a Pre movie? I think so).

the state-winning XC team -- a very happy day!

my love of relays! this is actually a 4x100 ... no, that's not a typo.

When not running, we're most likely to find you __________?
Outside. I'm a big outdoors person. Running is a great means to do this, but I love all form of outdoor activities --  biking, hiking, exploring new places. For the past few months, if I were to be realistic with this answer I'd say Riverside Coffee on Main Street Clinton. I've been doing part-time research on science and new trends in wellness and exercise. I post up with my iced coffee for hours at a time. The owner and I have become friends. I think he found me strange at first, this person wearing colorful spandex furiously typing. Now I report back to him after each race.

Learn more about Kate on twitter and on her blog!

The Olympic Track and Field Trials start on June 21st. Oiselle HQ and team have been counting the days until we are swept up in all the excitement.

Months ago we put out the invitation to our team of athletes to come and stay with us in Track Town and take in as much of the Trials as they could. Flash forward to now, we have three houses booked and packed with Oiselle runners, friends, and our Totally Trials contest winner Emily and Sarah. Full house!

And as we announced on Friday, we have three athletes competing in the Olympic Trials! Our excitement levels have reached their max! To imagine these strong women in the Oiselle singlet stepping onto Hayward… it gives me goosebumps. I’m so excited for them, and can’t wait to meet them.

All that alone is enough to make me lose sleep, and I didn’t even mention that on Friday, June 29^th we are throwing the most ridiculous party! Hosted by Oiselle and DJed by none-other-than MC Hammer and his son. AND Oiselle will be debuting hot new looks in our first runway show. Yes, I get to strut the catwalk.

I have child-levels of excitement. Seven more sleeps until Eugene! My bag is already being packed! My calendar days are being checked off in Oiselle orange. And the rest of HQ is ready too!

Meet some of the players headed to Eugene and get tips for the best Totally Trials week possible:

Kristin Metcalf - Oiselle Team Manager

What day do you arrive in Track Town?  June 27th
Which event are you looking forward to most? 1500 meters, steeple, 5k, 800 meters
Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? ;) aka Who are you most looking forward to watching compete? Katie Flood and Kate Grace in the 1500m, Brie Felnagle in the 5k and Collier Lawrence and Jamie Cheever in the steeple!
Which athlete would you like to have a beer with? Lauren Fleshmen

Olympic Trials Spectator Guide
What should I have in my bag, besides hopefully-much-needed sunscreen?  Snacks for the track meet, sunglasses, and sanitizer
Trials Styles: what to wear?  Roga's, Oiselle tank tops and tees!
Best place to get an autograph?  On the fence line by the steeple pit or in the north stands by the pole vault
Must have cheer gear? well rested voice
Fun activities?  Morning runs
Best place to get swag? Outside the stadium, Oiselle housequarters :) 

House Rules
Do you snore? Nope
Who's your bedmate? Jacquelyn Komen What oddity should they be aware of? I sometimes walk in my sleep 
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? College: a long time ago!
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Sarah Lesko for sure!

Eugene Travel Guide
Where is the best ice cream? Prince Pucklers
Best track nerd bar? 19th street McMenamins is my favorite track gathering spot
Must see landmark?  Alden Baker Park for a run

Sally Bergesen - Oiselle Founder

What day do you arrive in Track Town? Not soon enough! Heading down to see the Hammer Throw on the Nike campus on June 21st - and then zoom! Eugene-bound 
Which event are you looking forward to most? The Hammer Throw - because I've not been a good T&F fan and have never spectated that event. The power of the athletes is very cool. Plus, it's Hammer Time, and well, it turns out that's our Trials theme.
But the events I am totally insane over watching are those being run by Oiselle Athletes, including Kate Grace in the 800m/1500m and Jamie Cheever and Collier Lawrence in the Steeple. I will be their biggest super fans EVER.
Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? ;) aka Who are you most looking forward to watching compete? Kate Grace, Collier Lawrence, Jamie Cheever, Lauren Fleshman, Stephanie Rothstein, Amy Hastings, Morgan Uceny, Alice Schmidt, Lolo Jones, Allyson Felix, and Brie Felnagle.
Oh are there guys at the Trials? lol The guys will be amazing too.
Which athlete would you like to have a beer with? All of the above! Beer Fest 5000?

Olympic Trials Spectator Guide
What should I have in my bag, besides hopefully-much-needed sunscreen? Sun hat AND umbrella. You never know. Print out of the schedule. Something to get your heroes' autographs on.
Trials Styles: What to wear? Hello? Oiselle.
Best place to get an autograph? Athlete village exit/entrance
Must have cheer gear? Voice, hands, camera, any apparel that shouts your spirit loud and proud
Fun activities? I'm guessing there will be a lot of fun activities in the Trials Village. I know they do a good job of involving fans. Best place to get swag?
The Track & Fun Party of course!

House Rules
Do you snore? Yes. So I should I have my own bed.
Who's your bedmate? What oddity should they be aware of? My family will be squeezed into a single room with me. I'd like to say we know everything, but there may be new discoveries made...
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? Um, like never.
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Hmmm. I know it's not me. I would give that to Lesko, 'cause she's a beast with the exercises... runner ups JJ or Mac 'cause they've been goin hard at the gym lately.

Eugene Travel Guide
Where is the best ice cream? Duh. Prince Pucklers.
Best track nerd bar? Hmmm. Not sure.
Must see landmark? The Pre Trail of course! Lovely wood chip trails through pretty shade trees along the river...ahhhh.
When I went to UO, I didn't like Eugene. I thought it was too small town. But now that I'm older, and its track heritage has only grown stronger, I appreciate it more than ever. I'm also making my way through the "Bowerman" book by Kenny Moore. A lot of great history. I love how the town turns into one big celebration of our sport.

Sarah MacKay - Marketing Lady

What day do you arrive in Track Town? June 21^st!
Which event are you looking forward to most? Steeple
Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? aka Who are you most looking forward to watching compete? Our Oiselle athletes, Kate Grace, Jamile Cheever and Collier Lawrence! I can’t even wait!
Which athlete would you like to have a beer with? Lauren Fleshman or Lolo Jones

House Rules
Do you snore? Like a tiny squirrel
Who's your bedmate? Maybe my sis, Rebekah.

What oddity should they be aware of? She knows all my oddities. The talking, laughing, crying and kicking in my sleep. I'm a real treat.
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? Never!
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Lesko. Woman is ripped.

Jacquelyn Komen - Social Media Specialist

What day do you arrive in Track Town? Wednesday (the 27th) if everything goes according to plan.
Which event are you looking forward to most? The Steeplechase is going to be awesome. Having Collier Lawrence and Jamie Cheever now on our team, it makes spectating 10 times more exciting to watch the water pitt!
Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? I mean...who are you most looking forward to watching compete? Ah that's a hard one. Must be honest, it will be very exciting to spot Shalane Flanagan and Kara Goucher rolling around Eugene.

Olympic Trials Spectator Guide
What should I have in my bag, besides hopefully-much-needed sunscreen? A towel in case you are sitting on the grass in the stands! And granola bars, I don't think they will let you bring water in.
Trials Styles: what to wear? A oiselle tee and some rogas!! Sandals.
Best place to get swag? The Eugene Bookstore on Agate (I think is the street) will have lots and lots of goodies. 

House Rules
Do you snore? Nope
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? Sorority Days at U of O (Alpha Phi!)
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Sarah Lesko definitely could take the cake on that one.

Eugene Travel Guide
Where is the best ice cream? Prince Pucklers! Right off 19th.
Best track nerd bar? Hmm... Track town pizza ;) (The only place I could go to under 21!) So yummy though. 
Must see landmark? Spencer's Butte. Only about 2 miles away from U of O and about 1-2 hours to get to the top (hiking). You can see all of Eugene and all of Springfield from the top. 

Christy Slye - Oiselle Sales Director

What day do you arrive in Track Town? Thursday, June 28
Which event are you looking forward to most? I was never a trackster but was part of a track family. When I was young it seemed like we went to college meets every weekend around the midwest. I love to watch all track and field events. My favorite events are high hurdles, intermediate hurdles and the relays!
Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? I mean...who are you most looking forward to watching compete? I would love to see the Oiselle women compete! I want to support my team as a fan.

House Rules
Do you snore? Sometimes
What oddity should your bedmate be aware of? I like untucked sheets
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? This will be a first
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Not me; I don't go to boot camp. My limit is 10, but I like to think I have good form.

Sarah Lesko - Oiselle Friend and #1 Fan

What day do you arrive in Track Town? Thurs 6/21. Whole hog!!!!
Which event are you looking forward to most? So many! Of course women's 800, 1500, 5K. But I love men's HJ too. And men/women pole vault: DRAMA.
 Which athlete are you most likely to stalk? I mean...who are you most looking forward to watching compete? Kate Grace!!!!! And, Ashton Eaton is spectacular.  
Which athlete would you like to have a beer with? Mary Slaney. I have read so much about her, from youth to the year 2000. I would love to sit back and just get her life perspective now.   

Olympic Trials Spectator Guide
What should I have in my bag, besides hopefully-much-needed sunscreen? Oiselle gear to trade with people or give to your favorite athletes. A sharpie for autographs. An empty plastic bottle for water (fountains inside) and some Nuun tabs. 
Trials Styles: what to wear? Oiselle of course. 
Best place to get an autograph? Back behind the track up top; everyone walks through there.
Must have cheer gear? Crazy shirts. 
Fun activities? The tree climb...so fun! 
Best place to get swag? On entrance day every day there is a new giveaway. My favorite in 08 was the bandanna printed with Hayward Field outline.

House Rules
Do you snore? Never. I make a little "woof" sound right when I go to sleep.
Who's your bedmate? My hubby :) What oddity should they be aware of? He knows all. 
When's the last time you shared a house with this many awesome women? Never. This is epic.
Who between us could win a pushup contest? Ummm, hello. Me? But Mac and Jack looking pretty buff too.

Eugene Travel Guide
Where is the best ice cream? Prince Pucklers!!! Oiselle HQ only 2 blocks from it! Crazy! The Turtle flavor is amazing. 
Best track nerd bar? Track Town Pizza.
Must see landmark? Climb Spencer's Butte on a nice day. And drive over to the Oregon Coast on the off days to run in the dunes and ice your legs in the ocean. So relaxing.

What about you!? Excited to cheer your favorite athletes onto London?

MORE TOTALLY TRIALS

Meet the Oiselle athletes, get race schedule and keep up with live tweet action from Hayward on the Totally Trials page. And shop the new Oiselle Trials Styles here.

Yesterday we kicked off the Olympic Trials madness by announcing the winners to our Totally Trials contest. First of all thank you to every duo who took the time to join in on the fun. We were blown away by the creativity. It was our first contest of this magnitude and we didn't know what to expect. Voting was the hardest part of the contest, of course. So we nominated a select number of our Oiselle team (out of office - since there are only four of us here) to vote 1 – 3, and everyone at HQ did as well. We didn’t discuss until we showed our lists.

Despite not receiving a billion entries, it was very hard for me to pick my top three. So much strength, humor, beauty, creativity, joy, enthusiasm… so much work and love went into creating these stories of friendship and why they wanted to join Oiselle at the Olympic Trials in Eugene. After tallying all votes, nearly 100% unanimously Sarah and Emily topped the lists with their Roga inspired video. And that is how a contest is won.

Also with near 100% unanimous votes came the #2, #3 places. Congrats to Barb and Steffanie. And Susan and Jeri. These two teams will enjoy $300 to spend at oiselle.com.

Below are the three winners’ video applications.

Emily and Sarah

Jeri and Susan

Barb and Steffanie

We are excited to have Emily and Sarah join our HUGE team of women in Eugene. We LOVE this sport, like we know you do. I hope you join our live tweeting and blogging from Hayward during the Trials. This contest is only a small part of the Oiselle Totally Trials excitement that’s been brewing all year! In fact on Friday we'll be announcing three Oiselle athletes headed to the Trials!

How about you, any of you planning a trip to Hayward to catch all the action? Whether you’re watching from afar or right there – what event can’t you wait to see?

Sexy core. How to explain? Sally and I created an alarm to go off daily to remind us to get up and do a few core moves during the work day. We called that alarm "Sexy Core", an ironic joke to us. Sort of like "bikini body". Ha. What is a bikini body? Of course when the alarm went off we'd do a little Sexy Shanna shimmy and get to some planking.

Then one day Jen Bigham, from Team Oiselle, was sitting at my desk and saw the alarm. She tweeted to me (I was home) hope you're doing "sexy core" or something. Our inside joke was totally outed. And now we have Tweeps sexy coring with us!

Today we had a great session, with 'requests' from you all!

Alright so now that the joke is out, lets rename Sexy Core. Please! Dream up a name for us!

 Guest Blog Post by 
Audra Smith, Assistant Strength Coach at the University of Washington for Track and Field and Cross Country

USA Weightlifting certified and Master's degree in Health Education. Audra is in her third year at UW where she oversees all of the strength training for track and field and XC. A former heptathlete at Idaho State University. She lives in Laurelhurst and is currently training for her third marathon.

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You all have been there, during your run, feeling tightness in you quads, knees, glutes, hamstrings, even IT bands (iliotibial band). The feeling is quite uncomfortable but you push on because you are ten minutes in the run and you hope it will “loosen up” as you continue to pound the pavement. My first thought when athletes come to me about tightness in their in those areas is, how is your strength training? Is your body strong enough to withstand the amount of force you put into the ground with each stride? I tell my athletes, “You can be a good distance runner by just running, but you can be a great distance runner by running and incorporating strength training in your weekly regiment.” When developing strength training programs for the runner I use the K.I.S.S. acronym; keep it simple sista! That means, in the beginning of training, body weight is your dumbbell. In strength training, technique and form is crucial for success.

If I had to recommend one exercise, I believe the best prescription to benefit a runner is the goblet squat. Studies have shown a direct correlation with squats and competitive runners. Squats are one of the best whole body exercises that any athlete can do but for a runner it provides benefits that mileage cannot. Squats aid in injury prevention, core stability, full range of motion, flexibility and efficiency. Really? All of those benefits in just one exercise? Yes, and if you call and order now you can get a set of lunges included in the package for free. The next step is when, where, how, and how many. This goes back to keeping it simple;

when: after your run,

where: any old place that is flat.

how: set your feet a little past shoulder width, toes pointed slightly outward, take your hands and pretend you are carrying a large bag from the bottom. As you squat, let your hands and forearms glide along the inside of your legs until your elbows get to your knees, use your elbows to push your knees out allowing your entire foot to stay flat on the ground. When at the bottom while keeping your chest up and back as vertical as possible push at the same time through both heels and stand up. 

how many: the best place to start is counting the overall number of squats. Beginners 15 total, more advanced, 25.  However keep in mind to do this in sets, 3 sets of 5 is a great place to start, eventually 5 sets of 5. Again counting the total number (3x5=15). The goblet squat is a variation of a squat that allows you to easily get into a more efficient squatting position without having a trainer at arms length. I would recommend doing just using your body weight and let gravity take care of the rest.

So now that we've all shared why we run, we'd love to hear why you do. Maybe it's something you've already asked yourself, maybe you haven't, but whether you have a day, a run, or 3 minutes to ask and attempt to answer the BIG question, we'd love to see/hear why.

We'll add any photos to the #runlove album and everyone who takes on the challenge will be entered to win the new Big Run Tee (3 winners chosen on Monday 5/21)
Where to share
Twitter - @oiselle with #runlove
Facebook - On the Oiselle profile page
In the comments here, don't worry if it doesn't show up right away. It has to be approved first.

Sorry I can't get you out of work to answer the question but who knows this could get your wheels turning for the big Totally Trials contest!

Happy Weekend!

Seattle is a sun-starved, weather bruised community. We wait all year for that glowing orb to appear, to shed light on mountains we only get to see three times. This is only a slight exaggeration. So on Friday, May 4th, we were all drooling over the forecast. The weekend was in the 60s and Monday... 70s! We all joked that we should take a sun-day (like a snow day). And then on Sunday (the real day) came the message from Sally to Kristin, Jacquelyn and me: stay out of Oiselle HQ, BUT use the day to explore what running means to us and what Oiselle stands for in our words/eyes. She posed it as two questions:

1. Why do you Run? (visuals)

2. What three words describe Oiselle? (visuals)

We labeled the day Monday Madness and all set off on our own to do a little soul searching about this sport we love. Here is what we found.

(click each name or photo to read/see that person's thoughts on the subjects)

Kristin Metcalf

Kristin is the Oiselle Team manager. She is made for this role, so organized and focused on each gals races. You could ask any given day, who's racing this weekend and boom! she'd know. She'd also know their race goals and previous PRs. She knows because she's so excited for every member of Oiselle's team and interested in their success, and because she can make one bada** hand-drawn chart. Seriously Kristin rocks.

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Sally Bergesen

Sally is our fearless leader, the founder of Oiselle, designer extraordinaire and one funny bird to boot. Always a new idea (hello, Rundies) and the most inspiring person I've worked with/for. I'm not just saying this because she can see over my shoulder right now...

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Jacquelyn Komen

JK is a University of Washington student working at Oiselle part time in social media. She is a spark! Full of enthusiasm, energy and ideas. Oiselle HQ is a lot of fun on Monday, Wednesday and Friday with JK in the office.

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Sarah MacKay (Mac)

Is me, I'm Mac, but lets embrace the third person. She is the marketing director at Oiselle, star of two vlog episodes, and a Oiselle runner.

So I have a thing for brands. I’m fascinated by them. What makes a good one? What makes them worthy and interesting? What sparks ardent love, both inside and outside a company? What makes a brand feel personal…like a friend or even a quirky family member, and not like a business, or god forbid, a corporation?

In my past life as a brand strategy consultant, those are the questions I was asked every day. And I was paid to answer them. I was paid to help companies achieve the holy grail of brand equity: an emotional bond with customers. For our clients, especially at the CEO level, this bond was discussed in dollar terms. Higher equity meant not only more market share, but also customers who would pay more for their products (premium pricing) or stay true even in a down economy (hello 2001 and 2008).

But the money was never my fascination. For me, I loved brands that stood for something. That were about something more than a widget, an app, or a pair of shorts hanging on a rack. I respected brands that talked about big ideas. That acknowledged humanity. That had opinions, even if it meant pissing some people off. That had humor and humility.

And thus the genesis of the Oiselle brand. And the opportunity to take my own advice. One of the first exercises was creating a brand map that outlined who we are, what we do, who we cater to, and the benefits we offer. My favorite part of the map of course is the “emotional” section, in which we list words that describe the emotive connection with customers.

So…when we decided to do the #mondaymadness challenge a few weeks ago, I decided my exercise should be about revisiting the words that I used to describe the emotional benefit of Oiselle from when we started the company – and see if they still felt right.

So roughly four years ago, these are the words I used:

Empower, in that women feel their own confidence growing as they enjoy the sport. Delight, in the sense that we offer something new and refreshing to the staid running apparel market. And transform was about the transformative power of running that linked to my own experience of the sport changing my life.

But when I sat down last week and rethought them, this is what came out:

So what I found interesting about this exercise was that a) the words that feel more natural now are adjectives and not verbs, and b) the change in the words themselves and what they mean.

My take away is that four years ago, I felt a stronger urge to put something OUT into the market. It was about making sure people knew what we had to offer, thus the verbs. I was trying to identify and connect with an audience that didn’t yet know us.

Today, while “empower, delight, and transform” still feel good, I feel differently about where we are. Now that we have established a community, both tight knit (staff, ambassadors, elite team) and far-flung (Twitter, FB, media, and greater online world) I feel there is less of a distinction between the inside and the outside of our company. And so rather than gravitating toward words that describe what I want Oiselle to DO for you, I feel better about words that describe US. You, me, and the crazy running community/industry that we’re a part of. And while we are still a bit player on a very large stage, this feels right and powerful and just where we need to be.

As for the words themselves, a bit of context – since per usual, context is everything. BEAUTIFUL is a loaded word, but I am lacking a better one. When I use it, I mean the kind of awe-inspiring beauty that’s made visible when you watch a world class athlete do what they were born to do. The fluidity, strength, jaw-dropping beauty of pure athleticism. I feel this is the true meaning of beauty, and it’s a far cry from the kind of beauty sold to you in a fashion magazine. COMPETITIVE in that it’s at the core of what we do and care about. We run, we race, we train…and that comes with its own basket of goodies. It’s also quite different than a lot of women’s brands. Not better, just different. And finally, IRREVERANT. Not just because it makes our silly office escapades more legit, but because it’s about acknowledging that life is a big crazy, sometimes messed up, often joyful, bumpy journey that we are all on together. And when you’re in that journey, pack your humor sister friends, because we’s all gonna need it!

I still have a thing for brands. But another thing I’ve learned is that it’s really not about me. It’s not about what we think of us. But more about what YOU think of us. And that is why I am always, ALWAYS loving the conversation that we have with our peeps. Good, bad, or ugly, this as a collaboration. I’m grateful for your part in it. Onward!

Why do I run? I've been re-answering that question for the past 16 years. I had so many ideas for how to answer (at least a part of) this question...

But in the end, I focused on why I run right this minute. Which is how I'm learning to look at running. I have a narrow focus on it. I take it day by day and appreciate each run. I run because I can, and I run because in this grown up life it's the part of my day that lets me feel free, young, reckless, and strong, confident, untethered from the stress, exhaustion, insecurities that "adult me" deals with.

So I packed up my little CamelBak and set off for an adventure on my two feet. My recovering feet (only a week from the Eugene 1/2 PR). And I took everyone at their desks along thanks to the magical world of Twitter. #mondaymadness #runlove

All I need, Fa, a long, long way to run hooray!

Running off the 'island' of West Seattle ...

Author: JACQUELYN KOMEN

Why do I run?

Past

Identity. Everyone has a story. It tells your identity and how you came to be the person you are now. I ran because of the amazing people I was surrounded by. I ran because the passion they had for the sport was undeniably evident and I not only wanted to be around it, but I wanted to create. I created an identity for myself throughout high school as being a runner, and I’ve never looked back.

Present

Balance. Just thinking about running makes me smile. I run because running creates an indescribable balance and calmness in my life. I love to think of each run as a spontaneously unpredictable adventure where I am allowed to let out anger, completely relax, catch up with friends, experience new cities, and ultimately create at least one challenge for my day. Running gets easier, but it’s not easy. If I can lace up my shoes and get out the door, I have full confidence my day will be better than when I left.

Ultimately I run because it’s my way of life. It gives me a schedule, makes me productive, happy and comfortable with who I am. I run because it changes my day from feeling ordinary and potentially stressful, to feeling a sense of motivation that’s driven by accomplishment. I run because it is the one thing in my life that consistently encourages me to be a better person.

Future

Memories. Looking back so far through my 21 years of life, the relationships and memories that this sport has created for me are invaluable to the creation of my life story. While I don’t know where my life will take me, I do know the things I want to take with me throughout my life. My book, like everyone else’s, is still being written and I know it won’t stop until I stop running.

Author: KRISTIN METCALF

Monday Madness:

Today’s task for our staff was to reflect on the question of “Why we run?”…

This question for me took many places today.  For the first time in a long time Seattle had sunshine and not just five minutes worth but an entire day’s worth of 70+ weather!  It felt like the first time since last summer that my skin actually felt warm; where I didn’t have to wear a hoodie all day!  So of course I started my day with a run at Green Lake in the sun, to jump start my reflection.

I started running in high school around this lake, five blocks from where I live today.  This was new to me; an after school sport, because for the 6 years prior to high school I was figure skating every morning and some afternoons.  Figure skating was something that I loved for many years; I loved the artistry, the technique and skill, the dedication and commitment that it required and the pure love of the grace and the glide of the sport.  The part about the sport that I struggled with was the stress of competition, the scrutiny of the judges, and the pressure that all of that brought to me on competition day. 

So, by the time track and field entered my world, running was refreshing!  Yes, it also required hard work and dedication, something that I was already use to; something that was a part of my being!  However, with running all I needed was my shoes and the desire to put one foot in front of the other..It wasn’t about all the technical details of moves and scoring those moves, it was about who got to the line the fastest!  I felt freedom from running and I felt strong! 

This sense of accomplishment and satisfaction carried me through four years of track and one year of cross-country in high school and then on to collegiate running.  After competing in college for two years, I took a break from competition, but continued to run for fitness.  My senior year in college, my former high school coach and my former college coach both told me that I should coach on the high school level.

It was through coaching that I found a new love for running!  I had spent so much time and energy on my own development of my figure skating and my running for  13 years, that putting energy into other people’s goals and pursuits sparked a new passion for me; coaching.  I absolutely loved it.  I poured my heart and soul into every aspect of my coaching.  I lived and breathed my teams; I was invested in each of the girls’ happiness, in their well being, in their goals and in their development as runners.

My husband and I met originally on our college track team, but where we ended up falling in love began in the cross-country world years later.  I was coaching my high school team and he was coaching his college team.  Our paths connected as he was recruiting athletes in our state.. Our passions were similar; we both had a desire to work hard and dedicate ourselves to our teams  For fifteen years, coaching defined me and brought much joy to my life.  Watching athletes grow in the sport and grow in life was very rewarding.  The lessons that they learned from running also helped them be balanced and hard working young adults. 

When I had my daughter, MacKenzie I had to balance a whole new sets of priorities.  It wasn’t just coaching, and teaching, it was being a good mom also.  This was a challenge for me to have to step back from 110% coaching and find balance in my life.  After several years of balancing the three, I decided that it was time to be a mom full time.  MacKenzie was entering Kindergarten, and I was stepping away from high school coaching.  The first cross-country season that I wasn’t coaching felt like I was missing a part of myself.  I had to redefine my own running; I was running by myself and for myself again.  As many of us know the motivation is different when it is just you out there, making your schedule and holding only yourself accountable.

Two years later I was looking for something new, something to do while MacKenzie was at school; Something that connected me back to running but in a different way.  Living across Green Lake from Oiselle, Iwas intrigued with the success of their concept and their product.  So here I am a part of Oiselle; A company founded on the idea that running makes us stronger women and makes us better people because it challenges us and inspires us to push harder and to continue to learn about ourselves.

What does running mean to me and why do I do it?  Because I can, because my legs and body carry me to many different beautiful places daily.  Running makes me feel strong, it requires me to work hard if I want to improve, gives me a sense of freedom, clears my mind, and makes me a better person every time I lace up my shoes.  Being a part of Oiselle allows me to be a part of a group of women who strive daily to improve themselves through running.  Not only is our company offering women great apparel but Oiselle is offering a community of women who believe in the same idea; that running makes us better people.  When asked what words come to mind when I think of Oiselle, I think of:

Creativity, Commitment, Quality, Community, and a Kick Ass Time!  

Kristin aka oiselle_team

Meet Mac Mama

My mama ran all 9 months of her pregnancy. She tells one story that cracks me up. She was huge with mini mac, running down the sidewalk. A semi truck come up from behind and was like Toooot Tooot yeah then as they passed her looked back in shock that they’d just honked at a hugely pregnant lady.

I don’t really remember a time in life without running. As kids it wasn’t uncommon to pile into the minivan and play ‘guess how long the run was’ as they clocked it, or drop off Gatorade along the long run course.

My mom showed me that women could sweat and spit and kick some serious ass. That running is a place for guts and toughness. That competition is satisfying. Another favorite mama story is about the end of a race. A man was hell bent on not letting a woman beat him. He was grunting and killing himself to get across the line ahead of her, no other dude in sight. After they crossed the line she shoke his hand and said, “congratulations, you’re the first woman.”

She never pressured me to run, even watched as I tried to throw shot put in a one track meet. But when it turned out I was decent at the whole running thing she was there to encourage me.

In high school she was invited to coach the distance team and she did. I mean I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t pushed. But I’m glad I was, it made me a tough nut accountable for my goals or… at least it gave me some solid ‘suffer stories’. Like the time I had to stay home from school because my face, neck and arms were blown up with poison ivy and she still had me do the hill workout on the schedule. If you haven’t sweat through intense poison ivy, you haven’t suffered for the sport.

When I tore my meniscus and needed a surgery to repair the damage she made me a mix tape with songs like that oh child (It’s gonna get easier) song. She knew how low I was. After a great track season and nabbing the school 2-mile record I ended up cheering for my team at the State cross country meet from crutches.

My mama still runs and is still a speedster, look for her name under the course records around Boston. I still turn to her for my track workouts and her training has lead me to some great PRs recently. She has a broken rib right now, so it’s my turn to make her a mixtape until she can be out running the road again

Contest

Tell us about your mom. How does your mama inspire you, your running? Or what do you hope to instill in your daughter(s).

We’ll pick one random mama/daughter team to win matching Oiselle tees (just like those matching jumpers in the ‘90s but WAY cooler).

Tell us about your mama on Facebook (in comments under contest), Twitter or right here in the comments.

Must enter by midnight PST, Sunday May 13.