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Articles by Sally Bergesen
How to Sell Your Running Race: Tips and Considerations
Every good race director knows that timing is everything. And yet, along with many other small business owners, many race and event owners haven’t adequately trained for their own exits. In fact, Running USA’s research shows that exit planning is top of mind for race owners, with many sharing that they would like more information about exit planning and ultimately selling. Of course, starting can be the hardest part. Especially, with so many questions to answer.
Kara Goucher on Owning Her Own Story
Outside's long reads email newsletter features our strongest writing, most ambitious reporting, and award-winning storytelling about the outdoors. Sign up today. Editor’s note: This interview includes references to sexual assault. Kara Goucher is a two-time Olympian, who competed in the 5,000m, 10,000m and marathon, and is a World Champion Silver Medalist at the 10,000m.
Opinion: The Day the Shoes Blotted Out the Sun
Get access to everything we publish when you sign up for Outside+. “It’s way too hot to run a marathon!” we moaned. A group of us—Oiselle friends, co-workers, teammates—made the one mile walk from our hotel to the course of the Olympic Marathon Trials in Los Angeles in 2016. We were happy and festive, but we were jittery too. Despite it being February, the weather was infernal. Twenty-four Oiselle athletes, including a favorite to make the Olympic Team, Kara Goucher, would be racing that day.
Sally Bergesen Archives
My Stories Weekly Newsletter Learn how to rack up those miles and be your healthiest self.
"The State of the Sport with Kara and Sally "
PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 (coming soon) In 2014, Oiselle signed Olympian and pro runner Kara Goucher as a sponsored athlete for Oiselle - and that relationship continues today.
"10 Warning Signs in the Athlete-Coach Relationship"
A coach might be one of the first relationships a young person has outside of their immediate family. And sometimes we know very little about their qualifications or skills, or even what to look for if we sense something is wrong. Understanding warning signs in these relationships can be very helpful in terms of stopping abuse before it starts. We culled research, and polled the knowledgeable women internally at Oiselle, and here are some of our top warning signs.
High Fives and Humble Pies: 2018 in Review
December 28, 2018 At Oiselle, we’ve discovered that it’s like a dog year situation, where one year equals about seven. So it is with great effort that I reach back through the years, or twelve calendar months, to reflect on 2018. (And by the way, I’m now 121 years old). At the end of 2017, and rolling into 2018, I felt like I was waking up from a hangover.
"10 Funny Fond Memories of Boston " on the @oiselle blog #BirdIsTheWord
1. Fleshman introduced me to her “Fleshman Fly” sleep chamber. 2. “Wtf…public transpo. Where the hell is my town car?” 4. Gotta be honest, I was a little jealous of this year’s Boston orange jackets. 6. Why stay at the Fairmont Copley when you can have an American Girl Doll slumber party? 8. They don’t make churches this old out West. 9. Sweet Greens on Boylston. INCREDIBLE salads. Go there and order the Earth Bowl. Lastly, enjoying the fact that BostonStrong = AMebrica the Beautiful.
Welcome to the New School
My name is Sally and I’m a sports feminist. I’m also a CEO, an apparel designer, and a leader and follower of women. I’m a child of the running gods and goddesses (forgive me mother, for I have not run yet today). And I’m a bit player in the global movement known as women’s sports. Today is a big day. Yes, it's a relaunch of our brand, and a beautiful new collection to go with it. But more importantly, it's a recommitment party. We're doubling down on our mission.
The Business of Track and Field
Last fall we were approached (through her agent) by an up and coming athlete who had made the leap (pun intended) to the world level in Track and Field, Tori Franklin. Unfortunately, Tori is in an event (Triple Jump) that doesn't currently have a wide audience, and despite having made the US team and competing in the London World Championships in 2017, Tori had no offers from the major sponsors in our business.
The Future Of Fashion is Functional (And Fabulous)
It might be a little hard to see...after all the world is a noisy place. But something is definitely happening. Sports bras, bralettes, even structured bralettes for bigger cup sizes, are trending hot. Less structure, more softness, new types of engineering and fit and adjustability. There are many women at Oiselle who wear the Ballard, the , and on the daily. Women are stepping up and out of heels: High Heels are the Worst and Women are Finally Ditching.
We Must Change the Narrative Around Women's Sports
“What’s the equivalent of the four-minute mile for women?” The question was casually thrown out in a group of about ten sports-minded women, a mix of athletes and business leaders. We were all gathered around a big open table inside Oiselle headquarters in Seattle. There was no immediate answer, and the question lingered awkwardly in the air. “4:40?” Someone said. “4:40 or 4:30?” Another long pause.
Why We Sponsor Kelly Roberts | Oiselle Running and Athletic Apparel for Women
Oiselle was founded in 2007, sponsored our first Olympic Trials elite runners in 2012, and celebrated our first Olympians (four!) in 2016. So although we are kind of new kids on the block, we have experienced a full cycle of track and field. It is our highest honor supporting elite athletes, and we will continue to do so. The pursuit of achievement in athletics is beautiful, and these athletes' stories give all of us a beacon to follow.
Introducing GOT Bras | Oiselle Running and Athletic Apparel for Women
Oiselle is thrilled to announce the launch of our GOT (Girls On Track) Bras charitable donation program. The GOT Bras mission is to help girls stay active and see physical activity as lifelong pursuit. We plan to donate at least 2,000 sports bras in 2017, and to share educational content about how to accurately choose and fit a sports bra, and understand our changing bodies. In 2018 and beyond, we plan to increase donations and produce "first-bra" designs just for girls.
USA Track and Field Athletes with #Rule40 Blacked-Out Sponsors
It's happening! Here at Oiselle, we stand with our athletes, against Rule 40 — the blackout period from July 27th through August 24th that prohibits athletes and their sponsors from talking about each other in any form. For athletes, the blackout period and Rule 40 prevent Big Event qualifiers from marketing themselves during the most visible moment of their career. This censorship is incredibly limiting, both financially and professionally.
Our USOC-Approved Ad Campaign - And Why We Decided Not to Run It
There are some basic tenets of advertising. Among them, none two are more important than a FOCUSED MESSAGE that is delivered during a strategically RELEVANT TIME PERIOD. The "relaxed" Rule 40 guidelines released last summer, purportedly giving non-official sponsors like Oiselle the opportunity to stay connected with their athletes during the blackout period, is in direct conflict with these basic principles.
With the Athletes - Against Rule 40: #freebird16
Earlier this month, we went to the Big Event in Eugene where the athletes were chosen for the Big Event in Brazil. We cannot use the name of the Big Event in Brazil because we might get sued by the US Big Event Committee (USOC). Incredibly, in Eugene, we had two athletes make the team: Kate Grace in the 800m, and Maria Michta in the 20K race walk. We have sponsored Kate since the 2012 Big Event in Eugene – which sent athletes to the Big Event in London. It’s been a long +4 year road.
Update: The Big Event in Eugene
Oiselle was contacted by the US Olympic Committee to remove all references to the Big Event in the Southern Hemisphere from social media posts, blogs, and website. All photos of the Big Event in Eugene will need to be altered to remove any prohibited references to the Big Event in the Southern Hemisphere. Such references are included on the bib that is ironed onto the athletes’ competition kit, as well as located on all prominent surfaces of the stadium, walls, and the steeple pit...
New Olympian Kate Grace is Going to Rio!
Kate Grace! You just won the Women's 800m Olympic Trials and are heading to RIO! How are you feeling? Balls, I’m going to Rio! Balls to the wall! But really, during that last part of the race I knew this was the time to leave it all out there. We had a plan to get on the rail, because I kept getting in trouble with people moving lanes in that last 400.
Surprise! Sally + Lauren + the Running USA Trailblazer Award
About six weeks before the Olympic Marathon Trials, Lauren Fleshman called me with some good news. She was receiving an award from Running USA – as a female leader in the sport. The 2016 Trailblazer award! Past winners included some of our heroes, including Mary Wittenberg and Tracey Russell. My reaction: duh. Such a no brainer. You, me, everyone…we all know how much this woman does for the sport, for athletes, and basically anyone she meets.
Behind the Scenes with Oiselle Hammer Thrower Britney Henry
Britney Henry is obviously unique for the fact that she is currently our only field event sponsored athlete here at Oiselle. However, why we love Britney goes way beyond her athletic accomplishments. In and out of the ring she is a ray of sunshine. For awhile we have been wanting our community to see what Britney does day in and day out, preparing to throw an 8.8 pound metal ball more than 200 feet in distance...while staying within a 7 foot diameter circle.
Kate Grace & Lauren Wallace Talk Flagstaff and Portland Twilight
After coming back from altitude training in Flagstaff, Kate and Lauren hit the track at Portland Twilight this past weekend. And yes, they brought the heat! Heather and I caught up with them pre and post race to recap on their training in Flagstaff, and get the scoop post race. Bottom line, we could not be more excited to watch these two race in the upcoming months leading into the Trials! You both just returned from training in Flagstaff! How long were you there?
New Volée Openings! New Run Family!
We are thrilled to open new spots to our Volée Team this week! A huge high five and hello to all the women who have come on board over the past few days. We welcome you with open arms and hearts – and cannot wait to fly together! And also, some good news for those who may have missed it. We have some spots left for this opening.
The Oiselle Full Half Challenge - It's Not Just A Half
"Half" has a bad rap. Consider the following terms: With the exception of half-n-half (I mean, we all need it!), half-life (how else could we record carbon dating?), and the effective half-Nelson wrestling hold, not a lot of positivity. Except for Snape, I guess he turned out to be a good guy? The half marathon often takes an unfair backseat to the grand 26.2. Training for a half marathon is a full commitment. It’s not just a half marathon; it’s a full half marathon.
"Birds Eye View: Rule 40 Explained" on the @oiselle blog #BirdIsTheWord
Rule 40! It’s happening. There’s been a lot of buzz online about it – and a lot of confusion. My hope with this blog post (serenity now, it’s a long one) is to shed some light on what it is, why it is, and how it affects all of us – as we bump along that “Road to Rio.” First some background: Oiselle is a sponsor of both Olympic hopefuls and former Olympians. We are in the business of sponsoring T&F athletes.
Birds Eye View: Rule 40 Explained
Rule 40! It’s happening. There’s been a lot of buzz online about it – and a lot of confusion. My hope with this blog post (serenity now, it’s a long one) is to shed some light on what it is, why it is, and how it affects all of us – as we bump along that “Road to Rio.” First some background: Oiselle is a sponsor of both Olympic hopefuls and former Olympians. We are in the business of sponsoring T&F athletes.
Post Olympic Marathon Trials Interview with Kara Goucher
Tell us about the race today… I talked to my coaches a lot. We just thought, “no one’s going to PR today.” Kellyn Taylor would have to PR, they’d all have to be in PR shape on this day. I promised that I wouldn’t go with any move until the 20 mile mark, and I thought, maybe I’ll regret it, but… I ran out of gas too. This past week, my family got sick. We all got sick, but honestly, I have a hard time tapering, so it probably helped me. I fumbled my second bottle.
Watch: Kara Goucher's Journey to 2016 Olympic Trials Marathon
I love how humble and truly grateful Kara is. Her love for what she does is inspiring and I'm so happy to hear that running is fun for her again. Her impact on the sport is, and will continue to be, tremendous. She has sparked a movement of confident women who run because it feels good, regardless of their competitive level. She is a role model in every sense of the term. We'll all be cheering for you on the 13th and in every other part of your storied career.
Six Weeks to Run Love Challenge: Week Two
Welcome to week 2! Your running posture requires balance and symmetry. If you are not running symmetrically, you create natural angles that put unnecessary stress and pressure on your joints, which can lead to injury. Dedicating at least one day a week to strength training will aid in injury prevention and help to improve your overall efficiency as a runner.
Update on Yale Partnership
Oiselle has learned that the Yale University Athletics Department has signed a 10-yr, $16 million dollar exclusive agreement with Under Armour. This agreement will supersede Oiselle's partnership with the Yale Women's Cross-Country and Track and Field teams, effective Fall of 2016. While we are deeply saddened to not be able to continue our apparel partnership beyond the summer of '16, we are and will continue to be grateful and honored to be part of the history of the Yale program.
3rd Annual Rungiving: A Week of Giving Thanks
Happy 3rd annual #rungiving! The week where we go beyond the black and cyber madness and find ways to spread joy to friends, family and strangers alike. If you're new to the challenge, don't worry, the rules are simple. Just follow on Twitter, and every morning at 6am Pacific look for the challenge of the day. RT then get outside and complete it! We'll announce the winners on Monday, November 30th: post-Thanksgiving bonus! Have you seen the new prizes?
Top 10 Sanity Tips for Fall Running
Oiselle Volee runner, , is back! Sarah is a full-time editor, writer, runner and vegan foodie. She shares her passion for a plant-based diet and dedication to an active lifestyle via her blog, and she's an expert in saying sane and focused in your training despite whatever life throws your way. Soak it up.
Chase the Bird Challenge
Ahh it's the windup to the winter. We see you eyeing that yeti. But it's not time to hibernate - it's time to streak! Join us for the #chasethebird streak to Thanksgiving (November 26th). From November 1st - 26th, we challenge you to do (at least) 15 minutes of something everyday: , swim laps, bike to work, hit the Jazzercise studio, join us at Flywheel, go running ...
Training Life in Wisconsin with Caitlin Comfort
Haute Volée is coming off of an amazing marathon debut this past June at Grandma's Marathon with a time of 2:35.29. She spends most of her time in Verona, Wisconsin and then part of the year in Flagstaff where she trains under .
We Work for Women's Bodies
We strongly believe there is no single "runner body." While we’re at it, there is no such thing as a bikini body or tank top arms. What does exist are bodies, running or wearing bikinis and yes, there are arms in tank tops. But there is no one constructed body to do any of these things. When we design apparel the goal is for every body to feel great (and sure, look great) doing what they love.
Two Minutes with Kara Goucher
Boulder is about 1300 miles too far from Seattle. I think this every time I think of Kara. Fortunately, she helps us shorten that distance with lots of updates on training, racing, and what's turned out to be a political year for the sport. Like so many women, I was incredibly proud of her for sharing her story this spring on the BBC and speaking truth to power.
Runners Try: Jasyoga
Fall marathons are close on the horizon and there's no better time to work yoga into your cross-training plan. The truth is, your hamstrings should be like rubber bands — not guitar strings. This 30-minute video features a functional sequence that will encourage your hammies to become more elastic so that you can maintain a more fluid stride and prevent injuries. Check out more Jasyoga videos to optimize your running at jasyoga.pivotshare.com...
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
In some ways, a store is just a room. Four walls and a roof. And as I write this, a scant four days away from opening, I can tell you that what will become Oiselle’s Flagship Store still doesn’t look like much more than a room with a cherry picker in it. Am I stressed? Hellz yes. Do I believe? I do. It will all come together. Between now and Thursday, I believe a magical transformation will happen. And when we crack open the doors to host our grand opening party, a jewel box awaits.
New! Sweet Tracks Featuring Kara Goucher & Lauren Fleshman
In a move rarely seen, nor even hoped for, two of the sports world’s most celebrated pro runners are risking everything by moving off the track and onto the music scene with an album of cacophonous proportions. A collection of music so new and raw, it’s quickly becoming the talk of the industry… “It’s remarkable.
Retail Racing Teams Co-Sponsored by Oiselle
By now you’re quite familiar with The Flock, Volee, and Haute Volee. But have you heard of some other women’s racing teams such as Team Ohio, Bay Birds, or Five More Flyers? I’d like to introduce you to these teams plus others that Oiselle has the privilege to co-sponsor! A Retail Racing Team is a team that calls its local Run Specialty shop home.
Team Chemistry - Instagram Contest
New Instagram challenge! Today through Monday, 2/16, we're giving you the chance to nominate your run family and win sweet prizes. Think of your favorite teammate who you love to hate, when (s)he drags you out of bed for Sunday long run, pushes your pace at the track on Tuesdays, battles ice baths with you through winter...this one's for them. And we promise, you don't have to be a chemist to know how it works. Grab your GoPro, selfie stick, Nikon camera, iPhone...and get 'graming.
Woman Up Friday! Atsuko Tamura joins Oiselle as President
Today is the day I can leap to the rooftops and yell out: “My amazing friend and mentor Atsuko Tamura is joining Oiselle as President!!!” Before I say more, let me take you back to the time we first met. It was over a year ago and I was hanging in there, but I was also struggling. I had staffing problems, I was doing the work of three people, and I had to raise money to keep Oiselle going. In my quest for new connections, a friend of mine (let’s call him Bob), introduced me to Atsuko.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
The day Kate Grace and I found out the Littlewing crew was heading to Albuquerque for winter training, we began scheming - Georgia O’Keefe museum, Santa Fe, Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, red chile, green chile, Christmas chile, Old Town, Taos, infinite art galleries, National Museum of Nuclear Science - so many adventures. About three days into camp we realized we had been a bit ambitious.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
Ahh nothing like that bitter, err beautiful, northeast winter to remind me of the value of the noble base layer. Get it wrong and your winter wonderland becomes a winter nightmare. Too hot, too cold, too sweaty, too…distracted to enjoy those crisp miles. Ten days split between Massachusetts and Vermont means running in all kinds of weather - sub 10º windchill, slushy 35º with rain, calm 20º and everything in between. Here are the layers I wore from the base up.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
Ride the line between fashion and function like a pro in the high performance Wazzie Wool Sweatshirt.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
Think you don’t have time to stretch? Think again… Runners tell us all the time that they’re “soooo inflexible.” Guess what: Flexibility is like anything — it takes practice. Just like increasing your mileage boosts your endurance, stretching regularly — in an intelligent way that is optimized for your sport — will improve your flexibility and aid your recovery. Wanna know the best part? As much as we’d love to see you in class daily, you don’t need a full hour or even a yoga mat to get it done.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
Flow Tights I fell in love with these tights when I first signed with Oiselle. The inside is so soft and the length looks great on everyone. They are perfect for running but also for running errands around town, or dressing up with a nice sweater. (Kara is also wearing the Wazelle Short Sleeve and Cable Knit Arm Warmers). Lux Arm Warmers Lux is the most perfect fabric ever made so these are the most perfect arm warmers. Warm yet totally breathable.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
Happy #rungiving week! One of our favorite times of the year when we shift our focus to celebrating fellow runners with random acts of kindness. Doesn't get much better than that, right? Last year we were inspired by everyone who took part in the challenges with us. This year we hope you join us again in spreading the run-love with daily challenges to give back. Follow Oiselle on Twitter, every morning at 6am PST we'll tweet the challenge of the day. Retweet (and follow) to be entered to win.
Oiselle Running Apparel for Women
While one half of the country is experiencing its first real chill - including us PNW'ers - and the other half might as well be sitting in an ice box, we can only guess that running can seem a bit unbearable for all of us at times.
Kara Goucher Joins Oiselle
So hopefully you’ve heard by now that Kara Goucher is joining Oiselle. (SQUEEEEEEEE!!!!......pause.....regain composure....) When I think about Kara's running career, one of my strongest memories is her marathon debut in NYC where she was pressing the leaders deep into the race and dropped a 2:25. Right then, I knew US marathoning had a new icon. And yet, as with most celebrities and sports heroes, I knew my place in relation to an icon.
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