As we step into December, the final chapter of 2023 unfolds. For many athletes and for those that work with endurance events, this month often marks the offseason—a period of rest and recovery strategically planned to follow the conclusion of competitive seasons or major events. During this time, athletes take a break from intense training and competitions, allowing their bodies and minds to recuperate.
You see, the offseason is crucial for preventing burnout, reducing the risk of injuries, and preparing for the upcoming year. It provides an opportunity for athletes to focus on restorative activities, cross-training, and addressing any lingering physical issues. Beyond the physical aspect, the offseason also allows athletes to recharge mentally, spend time with loved ones, and pursue personal interests. As December unfolds, athletes embrace this transitional phase, balancing relaxation with strategic preparations for the challenges and goals that lie ahead in the new sports season.
As we bid farewell to this year, let's set our sights on the horizon of the future. Whether it's conquering a new distance, achieving a personal best, or simply enjoying the journey, we're here to toast your goals for 2024. New Year's resolutions aren't just promises; they're declarations of determination and enthusiasm.
So break the mold, set audacious goals, and make every stride, pedal, and stroke count. It's not just about the distance covered or how fast you go, it's about the thrill of the journey and the stories you collect along the way.
May 2024 bring you long runs that reflect your journey, bike rides with the perfect mix of stoke and peace, and swims that navigate the currents of life. Here's to conquering challenges, finding joy in the everyday wins, and making your fitness goals a seamless part of this chapter.
Cheers to a year filled with growth, strength, and all the adventures that come with it!
Merrily,
𓆦 Stellafly
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It's nomination time for the Best of 2023 FLY AWARDS!
It's that exciting time of the year! The polls are now open for the Fly Awards - 2023 Edition. Have your say on the best race events and all things racing community-related!
Stay tuned as we unveil the winners on December 31st. Over the past five years, this has been an excellent opportunity to share experiences, explore new races, and connect with the racing community's movers and shakers. Check out the winners from 2022!
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The Michigan Gravel Race Series is a points series composed of 19 uniquely different gravel centric events. Riders may choose to challenge themselves in several categories from open, fat bike and single speed.
Racers registered for the series will accumulate points at events throughout the season.
At series end the top riders in each Open category, and who have also completed at least 4 events in the series (3 for ULTRA), will be awarded one-of-a-kind trophies and swag. To compete for the coveted gravel trophies and overall podiums a rider must be registered in an open category. Riders outside the top overall places will be eligible for age-group medals which will be awarded to the top 3 in each age group.
The top riders in the sub-categories (single speed and fat bike), and who have completed at least 4 events, will be awarded one-of-a-kind medals and swag.
SHORT COURSE series
LONG COURSE series
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For the past several years, Team Stellafly dresses up one of their athletes to run as Tom the Turkey in the Grand Rapids Turkey Trot.
This year the team thought it would be fun to have a friendly team competition and run two turkeys on race day. Race organizers also provided stickers to any runner that was able to beat the first turkey over the finish line.
While both turkeys ran a great race, Jake Shavalier, aka Tom #2 ran an impressive 19:04, 6:09 pace and took 101st place IN A TURKEY SUIT!
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41st Annual REEDS LAKE RESOLUTION RUN
DECEMBER 31, 2023 - NEW YEARS EVE
EAST GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
The Resolution Run tradition is so much more than running four more miles; it's about milestones and celebrations. Every year, runners gather to celebrate the end of the year and one last run around Reeds Lake.
This year's race will be capped at 600 runners and walkers who will embark on a 4.0-mile journey around Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, MI. It takes place on New Years Eve at 3:30 PM, starting near the EGR Middle School and finishing in front of John Collins Park.
While this race is simply a fun tradition to many people, its history started back in 1982 by the late Joe O’Brien, who owned and worked for Classic Race Management until last year when he sadly and unexpectedly passed away. This year, the race will be held in Joe’s memory.
For the most part, the race will remain the same but this year organizers plan to kick it up a notch with beautiful die cast medals, fantastic overall awards from Striders and Pursuit of Happiness, Snow Globe Age Group Awards, two days for packet pick-up at José Babushka's and an scaled up after party in a semi-heated tent at Big Bob's! Even Eric Zane will be there to entertain you!

Take $5 off your registration by using STELLAFLY5.
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GRAND RAPIDS TURKEY TROT
NOVEMBER 23, 2023 - THANKSGIVING DAY
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
5,800+ registered.
$100,000+ raised.
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THE TWISTED TURKEY
NOVEMBER 24, 2023 - BLACK FRIDAY
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
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Are you part of a race or event planning team for 2024? We're currently taking requests for coverage and race marketing, and we're even directly involved in organizing several races ourselves. If you're a race director or event organizer looking for top-notch marketing and photography coverage, reach out to us for a conversation. Our 2024 plans are starting to take shape, and we'd love to discuss how we can contribute to the success of your event on our calendar! Ready to explore the possibilities together? |
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We're glad you're here. You'll keep receiving these emails until you tell us otherwise.
And don't worry, we plan on keeping this a monthly newsletter as an attempt to keep you around. If you decide to unsubscribe, no worries, we'll see you at the races!
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