Biathlon Clinic-New Challenges

"Be thankful for what you have and use it to your fullest potential." - Scott Welle

I got a chance to try biathlon when I went to Nordic ski camp lasr December at the Hartford Ski Spectacular.  The camp held in Breckinridge Colorado was for imparied athletes.  As running has become more difficulte, I've been exploring other ways to stay active and compete. I get injured too much when training for longer distances. Plus my times have slowed so much. Noridc sking is fun, provides opportunities to race and is great conditioning.  Biathlon competition combines Nordic sking and target shooting.

At the Dcember clinic I found out my skiing needed a lot of work, but I was really good at shooting.  I guess shooting is in my DNA. When I was researching my family history I found out one of my great grandfathers was a sharp-shooter in the Prussian army.

My goal last season was to improve my skiing enought to start competing at local biathlon races here in Wisconsin. Southern Wisconsin is a bit of a hot bed for Biathlon. There are clubs in Green Bay, Madison and Waukesha.

I took the next step in reaching my goal by attending a 2 day clinic on June 20 and 21st at Black Hawk ski club.

My oldest brother lived for year just 5 minutes away for the club.  The site has a biathlon course, an alpine ski area and a ski jump. I had no idea all of that was so close to a place I spent so much time.

One of the things that have kept my from doing a race is that I was not safety certified by the US Biathlon Association.  I never seem to have the weekend free when my local club does their safety certification.  The clinic of 10 athletes was split into two groups. Half of the group was experiences and spent the morning shooting while we were in the safety clinic. We learned the parts of the gun, about the sport and how to load and safely operate a gun.

One thing I was worried about was skiing with a loaded rifle. I was worried about the gun going off if I fell. I was happy to learn, the ammuniatoin for the gun is loaded into clips. the clips are stored on the side of the rifle and are only loaded into the rifle when you are at a target and ready to shoot.  The bolt is open at all times expcept when shooting.   Once I finished the two day clinic I would be red book certified.

The next part of the clinic was getting to the range to shoot.

When I did biathlon in Colorado we used laser guns and the targets were much closer. I think these were 50 yards away.  The first step was to shoot at a paper target to adjust the gun. I would take five shots and a coach would look at the target through a scope. You want to get a grouping of shots as close together as possible.  Then the gun is adjusted to hit the center of the target.

We had to make several adjustments to my rifle to help it to fit.  I also got feedback to improve my shooting. Once the gun was adjusted it was time to shoot at some metal targets.  There are five round targets in each set.  Boy do they look tiny when looking through the rifle cite.

One thing I learned was to only use the very tip of my finger to shoot.  I also learned to follow through when shooting.That means not to move once I pull the trigger until I see the target is hit.  I also figured out I needed to wear my driving glasses when shooting. My accuracy improved immediately when I started wearing them.

We did lots of fun games too. We got paired up to do a shooting relay.  We each shot two sets of five targets. I was paired with the lead coach  I got a perfect 5 on one of my rounds and I think we won that game.

Something else we did is added is coming in hot to the target. That means your heart rate is up due to skiing or in this case running. It is tougher to shoot when breathing and heart rate are faster.

When racing biathlon, an athlete skis a lap and comes in to shoot a target. There are four laps total. Two are shot standing and two laying down. Because I am a beginner I only shoot prone, Anytime a target is missed a penalty lap must be skied. I shot prone all weekend and used a block to steady my rifle. The more experienced athletes, shot half of their rounds standing which is tougher.

So we ran the ski course, came in and shot our series of five targets.  I cut the course a bit (a suggestion of the coach) since I am a bit slower.  I missed one target on the second and third round and shot clean on the other two.  Instead of a penaty lap, 30 seconds was added for each miss. Although I was a slower runner, by shooting was better than most of the others in the clinic. I finished in about the middle of the pack.

After the race we got to cool off in the spring fed swimming hole that was just off of the course. I was promised bath water, but the water was so cold it took my breath away. I made the mistake of jumping in without testing the water.

The rest of the day we practiced shooting.  The coaches and the athletes were so great. I had so much fun and felt like I really took a big step forward. My goal now is to work on my roller skiing to improve my conditioning.  I am going to compete as a novice this year at my local races.  The ultimate goal is to compete at the Para-National Biathlon Championship in March.  The para-races are a bit different.  They shoot air rifles and in my category I think shooting is only done prone.

I've been in touch with the para-nordic head coach, so hopefully I'll get some direction on next steps. It's fun to be taking on a new challenge and a bit of a surprise to find out I am good at shooting.

In the meantime I've got lots of work to do to be ready for the National Championship in March.

*****************************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

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Herd Immunity 5K-Socal Distance Racing

"We run, not because we think it is doing us good, but because we enjoy it and cannot help ourselves.  It also does us good because it helps us do other things better. IT gives a man a chance to bring out the power that might otherwise remain locked away inside himself. The urge to struggle lies latent in everyone." -Roger Banister, first man to run a 4:00 min mile.

Everyone that is an athlete in America has had races cancelled.  Long time marathons like New York and Boston have called it quits this year.  Both of my World Championship races in September and October have been moved to 2021 because of the Covid 19 virus.  Every race I have this summer has been called off.  All of the local running club social events, meetings and races here in Milwaukee have been cancelled.

My comment on the club facebook site was someone needs to figure out how to put on a race while practicing social distance.  Silver Circle Events here in Milwaukee has figured it out.  I ran their social distanced Herd Immunity 5K in Oconomwoc on June 13.

We were asked to arrive at the park just before the race start. Packet pick-up staff worked behind a protective barrier.

The race was limited to 100 runners.    The out and back course would start from a park onto country roads.  We lined up in rows according to our expected finish time at spaced cones.

We were able to stay at least 6 feet apart.  One row started every minute. Runners were asked to maintain 6 feet of separation on the course.  It was pretty easy to do that with such a small field of runners.  I gave anyone I passed the needed space.  There was no water on the course, but it was not needed since the temperature at the start was only about 56F. I was wearing long sleeves and capris.

Once we crossed the finish line, we were asked to leave the park. There were no medals and no award ceremony. I finished in 2nd in my age group with a time of 32:39 which is really slow for me.

I did not feel good doing it and have continued to struggle while running in the two weeks since. This Monday I found out why as I was diagnosed with Mono.

There is no treatment, just rest, healthy food and moderate exercise.  I have not had any other symptoms except a lump on my neck.  It should hopefully resolve on its own, the sooner the better.

***********************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

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Festive Friday- Grasshoppers and Crab Cakes

My brother and I are continuing having a cocktail hour every.  It gives us something to look forward to.  In addition to a fun cocktail we also do at least one appatizer. This week it was crab cakes.

I've included both recipes in today's blog

Grasshopper1 shot of Creme de Menthe
1 shot of Creme de Cocoa
Vanilla ice cream
Hershery Syrup

The amount of ice cream depends on how think you want it.  Use at least two scoops for each drink. Mix using a blender or mixer.  Top with whipped cream and fresh mint

Crab Cakes

2 cans crab meat,drained
4 Scallions chopped
1/4 cup mayo
4 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
2 eggs
1 tablespoon ground mustard
2 teaspoons Old Bay Seasonings

Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl.  Add more bread crumbs if needed to keep the mixute from being too wet.  Form into patties.  Put some additional crumbs in a pie plate. Press each crab cake into the crumbs. Turn and coat both sides.  Chill for 60 minutes.

Heat oil in a heavy skillet. Brown both sides.  Put each patty on a cookie sheet in a 350 F oven.

Makes 8 patties

*********************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing, CMT disease, CMT and exercise, exercise and CMT, CMT, athlete and CMT.Team CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, bike4CMT, walk4CMT,  CMTA, HNF, Tri4CMT, Walk4CMT, MDA, #kneedeepinwork

Thank You to USA Triathlon

"One of the most difficult things in life is to appreciate where you've been, yet still driven enough to get where you want to go." - Scott Welle, author

A couple of weeks ago I was notified by USA Triathlon (USAT) I was award All-American status in two sports for the 2019 season.  That designation is given to only the top age group athletes participating in sanctioned events.

I didn't get the award because I'm such a great athlete, although I did finish in the top 10 among all athletes in my age group for Aquathlon.  I just had to sneak that in there.

I think I might be the only para-athlete competing in these two sports to qualify. In order to qualify I had to particpate in two events for each of these sports.

I am grateful because this is just more evidenc of how USAT supports not only me as a para-athlete, but participation by athletes like me in multi-sport.

One of the reasons that I am one of the only athletes competing in aquathlon and duathlon is that pretty much the rest of the para-athletes compete in triathlon because it is a paralympic sport.

USAT supports an elite program to get those athletes ready for international competition. I cannot compete at that level because the ITU really does not know how to classify my condition. So I have been shut out of this avenue.

I don't write that to complain, because USAT goes far beyond supporting athletes at the elite level.  Unlike most sports USAT provides opportunities for athletes like me to complete at any sanctioned race.  As an athlete I can request any accomodations that I need to compete.

Recently at National Championship races, larger athletes designated Athena's and Clydesdales are scored seperately. This means they have a chance to be National Champions.  They also have their own national championship.

Sometimes there may only be one athlete competing. Just like I am often the only para at a national championship race. These athletes start with the athletes in their age group and their times are compared for National Championship slots.  I asked USAT to treat me as a para-athlete the same way.  A request they have granted multiple times.  I hope that encourages other para-athletes to compete at all levels. I am so grateful for the opportunities. USAT allows me to fight for equal status with other athletes.

I was given a National Championship award and a slot on Team USA for Aquathlon this September in the Netherlands.  Initally the race dirctor did not want to do this, but when I alerted USAT they made things right.

Sometimes I have not treated very well by race directors. I try to prevent that from happening from contacting them ahead of time.  I get that I don't look impaired.  Part of being a director at a sanctioned race means know how to treat para-athletes.  When that does not happen, I contact USAT and they have made it right every single time.

The last time I went through classification at an International Triathlon Union race, the manager of the para program from USAT went with me to the classification. They made sure I got a fair assessment. I have never experienced this level of support from any other sports organization.

They have also chosen me three times to be first a USAT ambassador and a USAT foundation advisor. I have been able too represents the sports I love and encourage others to become active.

USAT has provided opportunities for me as an athlete to complete at some of the highest levels of the sport and be recognized.  They enable me to carry out my mission of raising awareness of CMT.  They help me to inspire others with CMT to live their best life.

They also keep me motivated and inspirted to keep competing. This will keep me stronger and help me to retain function. I am so grateful for their support of para-multisports and me as an athlete. I know there is still alot I can achieve in sports. Thank you to USAT for being there for me on my journey.

************************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

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Soup Sunday- Potato Smoked Turkey Soup

It is in the low 50's today and rainy.  It is supposed to be that way for the next three days.  Perfect soup weather. I put this soup togeher from things I had on hand. If you don't have all of the ingredients such the smoked turkey, then replace with an easier ingredient such as ham or smoked sausage.

Potato Smoked Turkey Soup

1 lb potatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 yellow onion chopped
3 cups half and half
1/4 cup fresh chives chopped
2 smoked turkey wings
3 stalks celery chopped
1 teaspoon garlic
3 scallions chopped.

Put broth, potatoes, and onions into a stockpot.  Bring to a boil, turn down to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.  Remove from the heat and let cool for 15 minutes.  Ust a stick blender to blend until smooth. Return to the heat on low.  Add the cream, celery, chives, chicken wings and garlic.
Cook for 5 minutes until the celery is cooked. Top with the chopped scallions

Serves 6

******************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing, CMT disease, CMT and exercise, exercise and CMT, CMT, athlete and CMT.Team CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, bike4CMT, walk4CMT,  CMTA, HNF, Tri4CMT, Walk4CMT, MDA, #kneedeepinwork

Festive Friday-Brandy Alexander

We are still tightly locked down in Wisconsin despite the recent Supreme Court rulling that there was no legal basis for the State Government to keep all business closed.  Milwaukee Country where I live has said they have no plans to lift the ban anytime soon.

So my races have been cancelled which was a big part of my social life. There are no sporting events and the movie theatres are closed. Only a business deemed essential is open.

My brother has been staying with me since he arrived from the Phillipines. I think he is kind of bored. I at least work from home every day which fills a large part of my day. So I came up with Friday cocktail hour to give us something to look forward to. We do coctails and appetizers.

The first week it was a brandy old fashion for him and a red wine spritzer for me. We had some nice cheese spread and crackers. Then we got some inspiration from this Charlie Behrens video. He is a Wisconsin funny man and many of his videos go viral.  If you live in Wisconsin or grew up here, you will laugh because his routines are so spot on.

Last Friday we did the brandy Alexanders following the recipe on the video.  It is a shot each of creme da cacao and brandy. Then add two shots of cream, add ice, shake and strain.  He used two shots of brandy, but that was too strong for me. I also like to add any extra shot of cream.  We swirled the glasses with chocolate syrup and topped with whipped cream. Top with a bit of nutmeg.

This week grashoppers and crab cakes!

*******************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

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Soup Sunday-Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder

It is still chilly here in Wisconsin.  The night time temperatures are still near freezing. So it is still good soup weather. I tried a new recipe this week.  Hope you like it.


Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite sized pieces
1/2 cup chopped white onion
4 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 1/2 cups half and half cream
1 can (14 3/4 ounces) cream-style corn
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, undrained
1 medium tomato chopped
2 stalks of celery chopped
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese

In a soup pot melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the onions, garlic and the chicken.  Cook until the chicken turns white.  Add the broth and chili power.  Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.  Stir in the cream, corn, chilies, celery and hot sauce.  Cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the cheese and tomato.  Cook until the cheese is melted. Serve topped with minced fresh cilantro

Serves 6

*********************

Chris Wodke

Founder & Manager Team CMT

www.run4cmt.com

Chris is a triathlete and long distance runner. She is a three time participant of the Boston Marathon.  In 2012 she finished 2nd at Boston in the Mobility Impaired Division. She was on the course in 2013 when the bombs exploded.

She has appeared three times at the Paratriathlon National Triathlon Sprint Championship. She was the 2012 and 2014 National Champion Paratriathlon Open Division Champion.

In 2014 she was the PC Open Champion at the Duathlon National Championship and at the Aqua bike National Championship in 2016. She represented Team USA at the Aquathon ITU World Championship in Chicago in 2015i, Cozumel in 2016 and Denmark in 2018. In 2018 finishing 5^th in the 60 to 64 age group.

 In 2014 she represented the U.S. as a paratriathlete at the Pan-American Triathlon Championship in Dallas, Texas.  She has won state championships in cycling and triathlon as a senior Olympian. In 2017 she placed 2^nd in her age group at the Winter Triathlon National Championship, earning a spot on Team USA for the World Championship.

In 2020 she was named a National Ski Patrol Subaru Ambassador and a USA Triathlon Foundation Ambassador.

She travels around the country raising awareness of CMT.

She is the author of the book, “Running for My Life” that details her experience as a CMT affected athlete and the book “Soup Sundays, A Journey Toward Healthy Eating”.

http://www.henschelhausbooks.com/catalog/memoir-biography/215-running-for-my-life-winning-for-cmt-9781595982827.html

You may visit her author page at:
http://www.amazon.com/Christine-Wodke/e/B00IJ02HX6

Team CMT is a group of athletes and supporters working to raise awareness and to find a cure for CMTWe currently have 233 athletes in 41 states. We also have members in Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Vietnam, Iran, Scotland, France, Turkey, Poland, Norway, Mexico, Wales, Ireland and Sweden!. If you wish to join us visit our web site; www.run4cmt.com or www.hnf-cure.org

CMT or Charcot-Marie-Tooth is the most commonly inherited peripheral neuropathy. It affects over 155,000 Americans (as many as MS).  It is a disease of the nerves that control the muscles. It is slowly progressive, causing loss of normal function and or sensation in the lower legs/feet and arms/hands.

Symptoms include; muscle wasting in the lower legs and feet leading to foot drop, poor balance and gait problems Atrophy in the hands causes difficulty with manual dexterity.

Structural foot deformities such as high arches and hammer toes are common.

Poor tolerance for cool or cold temperatures and many people have chronically cold hands and feet.

Additional symptoms may include fatigue, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties and hearing loss.

Keywords: Running, Running and CMT, triathlon, triathlon and CMT, athlete and CMT, cycling and CMT, paratriathlon, challenged athlete, Team CMT, Running for My Life-Winning for CMT. Hereditary Neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.

CMT and running, CMT and triathlon, CMT and athlete, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and running, Charcot-Marie-Tooth and triathlon, Team USA and Team CMT, Running for my life-Winning for CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, triathlete and CMT, Boston Marathon Bombing, CMT disease, CMT and exercise, exercise and CMT, CMT, athlete and CMT.Team CMT, CMT athlete, athlete and CMT, bike4CMT, walk4CMT,  CMTA, HNF, Tri4CMT, Walk4CMT, MDA, #kneedeepinwork