1995 - 1999
1995 to 1996 (Nelda Williams, President)
At one time or another, the Impalas seem to bring out that goal-oriented part of our member's natures. If you had a shred of goal-oriented nature and even the vaguest desire to run a marathon, chances are, it happened in 1995 and 1996. Why? The 100th Boston Marathon and the 1996 Olympic Trials.
First came the motivation. Qualifying standards were relaxed a bit for the 100th Boston. Adding 5-10min to the time for each age group opened possibilities many had never before dared to dream. Similarly, though at a different level, a "B" standard was introduced for the Olympic Trials. Instead of one 2:45 standard, all expenses would be paid if a qualifier ran 2:42 or better, but you could still toe the line if you made the "B" standard of 2:50.
Next came the coaching. Mike McManus led the team throughout these years and Mike was into marathons! With his guidance, skill, patience and inspiration, 25 Impalas made the trip to Boston in April '96, making us the largest represented all-women team. In addition to the travelers, many others made the times but didn't make the trip.
While the marathon was the dominating focus during these years, Impalas have never been exclusively anything, not even marathoners. A cross country squad dedicated their fall to the PA series each year and completed the season with strong finishes in the national championships in 1995 and 1996. Marathon training proved good for our team performance on the LDR Grand Prix circuit as well. Impalas dominated age-group competition, winning series titles for open, masters, and seniors.
And of course, high social standards were maintained during this period. Christmas parties became dressier. Impala picnics added fun triathlons and great raffle prizes. Potlucks continued their key role as carbohydrate replacement therapy and jolly good fun. And our water station at Hoy’s became THE reason to run the San Francisco Marathon in July.
In April of 1996, Coach McManus announced his departure from the Team for business and competing/racing purposes. Throughout the Summer, Chris Luckin, team member, filled in as Coach doing an excellent training job especially in the cross country area. In September, it was our good fortune to welcome Mike Fanelli back as Head Coach once again-- turns out the "Fanelli Finale" in 1993 wasn't really a "FINALE"!
As a team over these two years, we all got an extra dose of learning about what it means to be a teammate, what it means to compete and what it means to lose the ultimate race. Late in the spring of 1995, one of our top masters runners, Pat Falsone, started slowing down. Those who even noticed--Pat included--initially wrote it off to age and over-training catching up. What we all learned early that summer however, was that Pat was engaged in a battle for her life against that arbitrary killer, cancer. Pat’s strength, poise, and compassion as she struggled with, accepted, and eventually was consumed by this disease, are something those who knew her will long remember. Her memory eventually became a permanent part of the Impala and San Francisco landscape when a bench was dedicated to her in Golden Gate Park near our Saturday meeting place at Stow Lake. Stop by and stretch sometime.
At one time or another, the Impalas seem to bring out that goal-oriented part of our member's natures. If you had a shred of goal-oriented nature and even the vaguest desire to run a marathon, chances are, it happened in 1995 and 1996. Why? The 100th Boston Marathon and the 1996 Olympic Trials.
First came the motivation. Qualifying standards were relaxed a bit for the 100th Boston. Adding 5-10min to the time for each age group opened possibilities many had never before dared to dream. Similarly, though at a different level, a "B" standard was introduced for the Olympic Trials. Instead of one 2:45 standard, all expenses would be paid if a qualifier ran 2:42 or better, but you could still toe the line if you made the "B" standard of 2:50.
Next came the coaching. Mike McManus led the team throughout these years and Mike was into marathons! With his guidance, skill, patience and inspiration, 25 Impalas made the trip to Boston in April '96, making us the largest represented all-women team. In addition to the travelers, many others made the times but didn't make the trip.
While the marathon was the dominating focus during these years, Impalas have never been exclusively anything, not even marathoners. A cross country squad dedicated their fall to the PA series each year and completed the season with strong finishes in the national championships in 1995 and 1996. Marathon training proved good for our team performance on the LDR Grand Prix circuit as well. Impalas dominated age-group competition, winning series titles for open, masters, and seniors.
And of course, high social standards were maintained during this period. Christmas parties became dressier. Impala picnics added fun triathlons and great raffle prizes. Potlucks continued their key role as carbohydrate replacement therapy and jolly good fun. And our water station at Hoy’s became THE reason to run the San Francisco Marathon in July.
In April of 1996, Coach McManus announced his departure from the Team for business and competing/racing purposes. Throughout the Summer, Chris Luckin, team member, filled in as Coach doing an excellent training job especially in the cross country area. In September, it was our good fortune to welcome Mike Fanelli back as Head Coach once again-- turns out the "Fanelli Finale" in 1993 wasn't really a "FINALE"!
As a team over these two years, we all got an extra dose of learning about what it means to be a teammate, what it means to compete and what it means to lose the ultimate race. Late in the spring of 1995, one of our top masters runners, Pat Falsone, started slowing down. Those who even noticed--Pat included--initially wrote it off to age and over-training catching up. What we all learned early that summer however, was that Pat was engaged in a battle for her life against that arbitrary killer, cancer. Pat’s strength, poise, and compassion as she struggled with, accepted, and eventually was consumed by this disease, are something those who knew her will long remember. Her memory eventually became a permanent part of the Impala and San Francisco landscape when a bench was dedicated to her in Golden Gate Park near our Saturday meeting place at Stow Lake. Stop by and stretch sometime.
1997 (Sue Johnston, President)
1997 was an exciting year for the Impalas. The annual general meeting was held at Agnes Livingston's home in January following the annual two mile time trial. A large group attended and coach Fanelli gave an inspirational talk which, by the results at years end, everyone present took to heart. New officers were elected and sworn in. They were: Lisa Travaglini (Race Director), Cheryl Kruse (Treasurer), Peggy Ryan (Secretary), Kathi Berman (Vice President), Sue Johnston (President). At Large members were Marie Appel, Dawn Eggerts, Agnes Livingston, and Carol Stubbs. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Marie Appel for her outstanding efforts in 96.
The Grand Prix season got off to a great start at the Stockton 10 in January. Open, Masters, and Senior Teams scored in 1st place positions. Throughout the year, all three divisions maintained high standards with the open team battling the Aggies for 1st place. In the Senior division, Eve Pell turned 60 and proceeded to set new records locally and nationally at almost every distance. The cross country season was a huge success captained by Carol Stubbs. All three divisions led the association, with a memorable battle between Imps and Aggies at the Regionals held in our very own GG Park. Imp Open runners left the Aggies stunned and breathless as they cruised to victory.
In September, Tim Fitzpatrick came on board as co-coach to Mike Fanelli-- creating a very dynamic duo. And coincidentally, for most of the remainder of the year, we battled rain pour after rain pour at the track on Tuesdays; dubbing our newest coaching addition Tim “El Nino”Fitzpatrick.
At the years end Pacific Association Awards Banquet, the Impala Open, Master, and Senior LDR teams finished 1st in the Grand Prix. Master and Senior divisions were first in the cross country circuit, with the open team missing first by a scant two points behind the Aggies. The Impala Racing Team was named Team of the Year for their outstanding performance and community service. Lou Walters was named senior of the year for excellence in both LDR and cross country events. In celebration yet again, we appropriately ended our racing year with an exciting weekend of partying at Agnes for the annual holiday party, and a speedy Christmas Relays the next day (again in a torrential downpour--Tim?).
1997 was an exciting year for the Impalas. The annual general meeting was held at Agnes Livingston's home in January following the annual two mile time trial. A large group attended and coach Fanelli gave an inspirational talk which, by the results at years end, everyone present took to heart. New officers were elected and sworn in. They were: Lisa Travaglini (Race Director), Cheryl Kruse (Treasurer), Peggy Ryan (Secretary), Kathi Berman (Vice President), Sue Johnston (President). At Large members were Marie Appel, Dawn Eggerts, Agnes Livingston, and Carol Stubbs. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Marie Appel for her outstanding efforts in 96.
The Grand Prix season got off to a great start at the Stockton 10 in January. Open, Masters, and Senior Teams scored in 1st place positions. Throughout the year, all three divisions maintained high standards with the open team battling the Aggies for 1st place. In the Senior division, Eve Pell turned 60 and proceeded to set new records locally and nationally at almost every distance. The cross country season was a huge success captained by Carol Stubbs. All three divisions led the association, with a memorable battle between Imps and Aggies at the Regionals held in our very own GG Park. Imp Open runners left the Aggies stunned and breathless as they cruised to victory.
In September, Tim Fitzpatrick came on board as co-coach to Mike Fanelli-- creating a very dynamic duo. And coincidentally, for most of the remainder of the year, we battled rain pour after rain pour at the track on Tuesdays; dubbing our newest coaching addition Tim “El Nino”Fitzpatrick.
At the years end Pacific Association Awards Banquet, the Impala Open, Master, and Senior LDR teams finished 1st in the Grand Prix. Master and Senior divisions were first in the cross country circuit, with the open team missing first by a scant two points behind the Aggies. The Impala Racing Team was named Team of the Year for their outstanding performance and community service. Lou Walters was named senior of the year for excellence in both LDR and cross country events. In celebration yet again, we appropriately ended our racing year with an exciting weekend of partying at Agnes for the annual holiday party, and a speedy Christmas Relays the next day (again in a torrential downpour--Tim?).
1998 (Sue Johnston, President)
The annual general meeting was held at Janine’s restaurant, Mercedes, with both Mike and Tim giving members inspirational pep talks, and then conferencing to pinpoint individual goals. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Carol Keller for her leadership during cross country and on the Board, as well as her fine ability as a runner.
The Grand Prix circuit began again at the Stockton 10-miler. Impalas took a more restful approach to that race; following Mike’s admonition, that this was merely a warm-up to the season and to take it as a training run. Impalas were encouraged to move into the standings with the attitude of negative splits; finishing fast and first for the year, but focusing on individual goals as well. Two new events were important to the team this year: The Race for the Cure 5k and the Avon 10k. Both were held in Sacramento in the spring. Many awards went to Impalas in both events.
As a sign of a healthy and ever-growing membership, the team took on an assistant coach: Peter Goldmacher, who helped round out the coaching staff. Membership soared to 120 and the number at the track on Tuesday nights was upward of 50--all ably managed by our outstanding coaches.
Cross country co-captains were Louise Tench and Jody Littlehales, under the tutelage of Carol Keller. Throughout the year Board members worked toward creating a brochure that reflects the Impala spirit and provides information for prospective members. They also worked on a new Impala handbook-all you ever wanted to know about Imps-to be presented to members at the 1999 annual general meeting.
The annual general meeting was held at Janine’s restaurant, Mercedes, with both Mike and Tim giving members inspirational pep talks, and then conferencing to pinpoint individual goals. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Carol Keller for her leadership during cross country and on the Board, as well as her fine ability as a runner.
The Grand Prix circuit began again at the Stockton 10-miler. Impalas took a more restful approach to that race; following Mike’s admonition, that this was merely a warm-up to the season and to take it as a training run. Impalas were encouraged to move into the standings with the attitude of negative splits; finishing fast and first for the year, but focusing on individual goals as well. Two new events were important to the team this year: The Race for the Cure 5k and the Avon 10k. Both were held in Sacramento in the spring. Many awards went to Impalas in both events.
As a sign of a healthy and ever-growing membership, the team took on an assistant coach: Peter Goldmacher, who helped round out the coaching staff. Membership soared to 120 and the number at the track on Tuesday nights was upward of 50--all ably managed by our outstanding coaches.
Cross country co-captains were Louise Tench and Jody Littlehales, under the tutelage of Carol Keller. Throughout the year Board members worked toward creating a brochure that reflects the Impala spirit and provides information for prospective members. They also worked on a new Impala handbook-all you ever wanted to know about Imps-to be presented to members at the 1999 annual general meeting.
1999 20th Anniversary Year (Sue Johnston, President)
1999 was an outstanding year for the Impalas! Thanks to the superb coaching of Mike Fanelli and Tim Fitzpatrick, we surpassed all previous goals at an unbelievable rate. The Impalas won the Open, Master and Senior divisions in the PAUSATF Grand Prix Series and Cross Country Series. The Impalas had record numbers in participation at track workouts and at races. Over 50 Impalas scored for the team this year.
The annual general meeting was held at Fort Baker, thanks to Major Sue Bozgoz. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Dawn Eggerts for her leadership on the Board, her commitment to the development of the team, and her talent as strong runner. Peggy Lavelle received the Lifetime Honorary Membership Award and Peggy Ryan and Cheryl Kruse Shwe received Special Recognition for Service Awards. Special socks awards, honoring Impalas who travel great distances to race and to attend Tuesday practice were given to Sarah Freites, Michelle Hannaford, Lou Walters, Jessie Stratton and Holly Hagerman.
It is difficult to summarize 1999 because it was a year of change, growth and awesome running.
CHANGE: At the end of 1999, both Tim and Mike announced that they would be moving on from their positions as coaches. Tim and Mike announced their news with some regrets, however, their commitment to what is important in life certainly gleamed through. As Peggy Lavelle kindly writes, “We will miss the synergy that Mike and Tim offered as coaches, both with commanding personalities, but never interfering with each other’s leadership.”
Nike and PowerBar joined Hoy’s Sports as team sponsors due to the hard work of VP Dawn Eggerts and Coach Fanelli. Dawn also worked with Nike to put together the first Impala/Nike centipede for the Bay to Breakers. With the pacing help of Coach Tim, the Impede raced an outstanding 12K for a close second place to the Reebok Aggies.
We have made an excellent start on our Breast Cancer Philanthropy by volunteering at the Peak Hike for Breast Cancer on Mt. Tam. Breast health education information is printed regularly in the newsletter, and the Impalas shared our financial success through a donation to Bay Area Breast Cancer Network.
We have established a website and have increased communication among team members through ‘Circles,’ virtual communities on the Web.
AWESOME RUNNING: Three Impalas qualified for the 2000 Olympic Marathon Trials in 1999, Diana Fitzpatrick, Holly Hagerman and Lisbet (Engberg) Sunshine. Lisbet and Diana will be running in their third Trials-an extraordinary achievement over eight years.
Impala Chris Lundy was honored at the 1999 PAUSATF banquet as Woman Runner of the Year. A few notable race performances during her 1999 season include her second place overall in the Dipsea (also fastest woman’s time), first place at Pacific Sun 10K, and first place in the PAUSATF Cross Country series.
While we are on the subject of Cross Country-what a crew! Carol Keller placed second in the open division Cross Country Series, Randi Lydum was seventh and Sara Freitas was eighth.
For the masters division we had three runners in the top ten. Sarah Frietas was first overall, with Diana Fitzpatrick placing seventh and Dale Pitman placing eighth. For the seniors, five out of the top ten were Impalas, and for the super seniors the Impalas had three in the top ten. Irene Herman was the first place finisher for the seniors cross-country series, with Louise Walters placing second. Eve Pell was fourth in the senior division, with both Carolyn Russell and Jesse Stratton tying for seventh. In the supersenior division, Eve Pell placed second overall, with Dina Kovash placing third and Louise Walters placing eighth.
Impalas continued with representation in multi-sport events. Tory Valentine and Michelle Deasy competed in several triathlons and tested their endurance (and patience) in ‘Adventure’ racing. Michelle went to Ironman Hawaii and had an awesome race placing first in the amateur division and twentieth female overall. Tory did not let her flat tires inhibit her from placing sixth overall in the X-Terra series.
Impalas threw themselves a fabulous 20th Anniversary party at the Metropolitan Club in San Francisco. Impalas turned out in glamorous garb to celebrate twenty years of outstanding women’s running and friendships. The atmosphere was elegant. After worthy recognition of many Impalas for their contribution to the team and the running community, party goers took to the dance floor until the wee hours of the evening with enthusiasm and endurance only athletes can display.
1999 was an outstanding year for the Impalas! Thanks to the superb coaching of Mike Fanelli and Tim Fitzpatrick, we surpassed all previous goals at an unbelievable rate. The Impalas won the Open, Master and Senior divisions in the PAUSATF Grand Prix Series and Cross Country Series. The Impalas had record numbers in participation at track workouts and at races. Over 50 Impalas scored for the team this year.
The annual general meeting was held at Fort Baker, thanks to Major Sue Bozgoz. The Stockton Cup was awarded to Dawn Eggerts for her leadership on the Board, her commitment to the development of the team, and her talent as strong runner. Peggy Lavelle received the Lifetime Honorary Membership Award and Peggy Ryan and Cheryl Kruse Shwe received Special Recognition for Service Awards. Special socks awards, honoring Impalas who travel great distances to race and to attend Tuesday practice were given to Sarah Freites, Michelle Hannaford, Lou Walters, Jessie Stratton and Holly Hagerman.
It is difficult to summarize 1999 because it was a year of change, growth and awesome running.
CHANGE: At the end of 1999, both Tim and Mike announced that they would be moving on from their positions as coaches. Tim and Mike announced their news with some regrets, however, their commitment to what is important in life certainly gleamed through. As Peggy Lavelle kindly writes, “We will miss the synergy that Mike and Tim offered as coaches, both with commanding personalities, but never interfering with each other’s leadership.”
Nike and PowerBar joined Hoy’s Sports as team sponsors due to the hard work of VP Dawn Eggerts and Coach Fanelli. Dawn also worked with Nike to put together the first Impala/Nike centipede for the Bay to Breakers. With the pacing help of Coach Tim, the Impede raced an outstanding 12K for a close second place to the Reebok Aggies.
We have made an excellent start on our Breast Cancer Philanthropy by volunteering at the Peak Hike for Breast Cancer on Mt. Tam. Breast health education information is printed regularly in the newsletter, and the Impalas shared our financial success through a donation to Bay Area Breast Cancer Network.
We have established a website and have increased communication among team members through ‘Circles,’ virtual communities on the Web.
AWESOME RUNNING: Three Impalas qualified for the 2000 Olympic Marathon Trials in 1999, Diana Fitzpatrick, Holly Hagerman and Lisbet (Engberg) Sunshine. Lisbet and Diana will be running in their third Trials-an extraordinary achievement over eight years.
Impala Chris Lundy was honored at the 1999 PAUSATF banquet as Woman Runner of the Year. A few notable race performances during her 1999 season include her second place overall in the Dipsea (also fastest woman’s time), first place at Pacific Sun 10K, and first place in the PAUSATF Cross Country series.
While we are on the subject of Cross Country-what a crew! Carol Keller placed second in the open division Cross Country Series, Randi Lydum was seventh and Sara Freitas was eighth.
For the masters division we had three runners in the top ten. Sarah Frietas was first overall, with Diana Fitzpatrick placing seventh and Dale Pitman placing eighth. For the seniors, five out of the top ten were Impalas, and for the super seniors the Impalas had three in the top ten. Irene Herman was the first place finisher for the seniors cross-country series, with Louise Walters placing second. Eve Pell was fourth in the senior division, with both Carolyn Russell and Jesse Stratton tying for seventh. In the supersenior division, Eve Pell placed second overall, with Dina Kovash placing third and Louise Walters placing eighth.
Impalas continued with representation in multi-sport events. Tory Valentine and Michelle Deasy competed in several triathlons and tested their endurance (and patience) in ‘Adventure’ racing. Michelle went to Ironman Hawaii and had an awesome race placing first in the amateur division and twentieth female overall. Tory did not let her flat tires inhibit her from placing sixth overall in the X-Terra series.
Impalas threw themselves a fabulous 20th Anniversary party at the Metropolitan Club in San Francisco. Impalas turned out in glamorous garb to celebrate twenty years of outstanding women’s running and friendships. The atmosphere was elegant. After worthy recognition of many Impalas for their contribution to the team and the running community, party goers took to the dance floor until the wee hours of the evening with enthusiasm and endurance only athletes can display.
