Since the Patch Sprint went public in 2000, "Skip" has finished, in order, 4th and 5th place (men's open); and 3rd, 2nd, 1st, 1st (men's masters). Along with his winter sprints, Singer has a record 11 Patch finishes.
The television sports commentator and producer lives in Shelburne, Vermont with his wife Augusta. Both are Adirondack Forty-Sixers.
The fact that all these people gather together to do something that is healthy, fun and beneficial to a cause. Especially the younger guys. Man, when I was in my 20's, a weekend at camp meant we blew alot of money at the No. End, and then we hung out all day; maybe went for a hike if we weren't too hungover.
Also: It’s great seeing all the first-time Patch Sprinters remark “how awesome this was”. And the return rate is phenomenal.
2. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF THE PATCH SPRINT?
Not going out too fast. The start is a big adrenalin rush. Neil Young once sang that it’s “better to burn out then fade away.” In the Patch Sprint, you can do both if you’re not careful. It’s also a challenge just to run your own race the whole way, while not worrying about anyone else.
3. WHAT IS YOUR TRAINING REGIMEN FOR THIS EVENT.
Basic racing preparation. Ten weeks out, I begin a regimen that includes long runs, hill runs, tempo runs, speed intervals, cross training and a few races. Actually this year my training program is being geared towards a couple of half-marathons being held prior to, and after the Patch Sprint. So I will hopefully be in shape… and uninjured.
4. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE 2006 RACE?
Just to know that I have trained well enough to enjoy myself and not be struggling. At my age, I am probably past setting a PR (note- Singer had a personal best 2:43:50 in 2003). I’m definitely slowing, but it’s nice to know I can have a respectable time, and possibly a top-10 finish. Nothing you can do about the weather, which last year slowed a lot of us down.
5. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER DONE THE PATCH SPRINT?
Try it, you’ll like it. A lot of people are intimidated by the concept, but there’s a division for everyone. Particularly those who don’t care about race time, just a good time. Or you can volunteer. Or just show up, make a donation and come to the parties.
