The Carnival of Running #83

Welcome to the 83rd edition of The Carnival of Running!

I mentioned the Weetabix marathon ad a few weeks ago, but now I can embed it:

Lots and lots of tech stories this week.

An Australian scientist developed a system that allows you to talk and interact with a running partner. Big deal, you say? Well, your running partner can be on a different continent.

Microsoft developed a similar Wii-style running game you can play with a partner, but learned not to demonstrate it with models who can’t follow directions and who probably haven’t eaten a carb since age 7.

With the publishing industry in the doldrums, you have to hand it to Runner’s World for pushing the envelope with digital content. The iPad edition has several interactive features with bells and whistles, but isn’t too good for rolling up and killing that spider on your wall.

Runner’s World is also partnering with Starbucks to provide content for the coffee giant’s new wifi network. Along with its usual articles and video, the magazine will also let users “create their own maps, running routes and biking routes with Starbucks stores identified as pit stops.” Runner’s World has a similar content arrangement with the Microsoft Network.

Greg Decent of the Vail Daily worries that technology is detracting from the joy of minimalist running. Others worry that running technology might also inadvertently compromise your safety.

On the other hand, putting on a pair of shoes and running isn’t as minimalist as it used to be. The latest cushioning material from Brooks required the services of the PolyOne GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers company. For what? For this:

“PolyOne GLS developed a custom alloy described as a non-linearly viscous material, a SEBS (styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene) block copolymer-based material that includes proprietary additives. The material’s resiliency is a function of the level of impact to the material.”

Brooks applied for patent protection for this stuff, whatever it is. The running shoe business is highly competitive, to state the obvious. Even though Vibram Five Fingers has a shoe unlike those of the traditional companies, it has its own problems with knock-offs.

Participants in the Red Dress Run wore red dresses, but I’m disappointed to see that participants in the Robin Hood Race in Nottingham don’t mention wearing green tights and feathered caps.

Where can I get in on a deal like this? Run a reasonably fast mile-and-a-half, get two days off work.

Old Lady of the Week is Regina Joyce, who won the Humpy’s Marathon in Anchorage, Alaska, at age 53.

This week’s linky love goes out to FitBunny (great trail photos) and to MsRitz of Team Πικέρμι.

That’s all for this week, friends. Today marks the 100th anniversary of FTD. I called 1-800-FLOWERS to send them a bouquet. Submit your posts to carnival@runningisfunny.com. Until next time, run away!