Letter from the Editor
Welcome, readers, to the fourth issue of The Hurdle Magazine. Without a doubt, the feature of the December 2013 issue is the profile on former American record holder in the 110 hurdles, Dominique Arnold. I had a very enjoyable interview/conversation with Arnold that lasted over an hour, and found him to be very engaging, very insightful, and very funny. His hurdle knowledge is off the charts, and his willingness to share his knowledge is most impressive. Arnold was a key player in one of the greatest hurdle races in history, when, in 2006, he and Liu Xiang of China both broke the previous world record in the same race, with Liu winning in 12.88 to Arnold’s 12.90. That race is discussed at length in the profile as the highlight of Arnold’s outstanding career.
As I interact with the various people in my life, both on and off the track, I’m always keeping my mind and ears open for ideas for articles. A couple weeks ago I was running with one of my neighbors in our neighborhood when he mentioned that his closest friendships throughout his life have been with his running partners. There’s a bond that forms when people run together that no other bond seems to match, he said. That got me to thinking, and ultimately served as the inspiration for this month’s article entitled, “The Value of Training Partners,” in which I explore how this topic applies to hurdlers.
Meanwhile, “The Last-Step Stomp” is a response to the group of first-year hurdlers I’m currently coaching, and my observation that every last one of them plants that last step before the hurdle, stomping the ground as if they’re trying to put out a fire. I’ve learned that it’s safe to assume that any problems I’m seeing, other coaches are seeing as well, so such technique issues always serve as good material for articles.
Similarly, the workout for this issue is one I’ve used to address the issue of the last-step stomp, as well as the general issue of hurdlers not attacking the hurdles aggressively.
This month’s instructional video focuses on the forward lean into the hurdle – a continuation of the aggression theme.
For this month’s issue I would like to thank, as always, my web designer Chris Brajer for putting the pieces together and making everything look so polished while in the midst of studying for and taking his midterm exams. I’d also like to thank my photographer friend Derek Bradley, who once again did an outstanding job of filming the instructional video. I would also like to thank my ace in the hole Hector Cotto for connecting me with Dominique Arnold and making that interview happen after a couple other interview prospects didn’t get back to me in time.
Of course, a big thank you to our subscribers, especially you who have been with us since the first issue. And welcome aboard to all new subscribers; we hope you enjoy the magazine and welcome any suggestions and feedback.
I dedicated last month’s issue to one of my former athletes, Keare Smith, to encourage him in his dream of returning to hurdling at age 23. Sadly, Keare’s father, Sam, fell ill and passed away very unexpectedly during the Thanksgiving holidays. Sam was a great man – kind, thoughtful, caring, a man of dignity and integrity. So I’m dedicating this issue to Keare again, in memory of his father, whose essence lives on through his son, the rest of his family, and all who knew him and loved him.
Since this is our last issue before the Christmas holidays, I’d like to close by saying Merry Christmas, happy holidays, happy new year, be safe in your travels, get some rest, don’t do anything stupid, and let everyone in your family know how much you care about them. Much love to you all.
Steve McGill
