What's Next?

** COMMENTS STRONGLY REQUESTED **

Despite the snow, it is safe to say that many of us our working towards a spring race now. For some of you it is a half marathon, and for others it is a full. I know the Shamrock and the Flying Pig have garnered the most attention from the RMEC, but I am going to highlight five options that our group may be interested in. These are listed in date order:

03/07 Umstead - This Raleigh trail race is only a marathon. It is very hilly and limited to 200 runners. Frank and Scott are registered, and I am going to try to grab one of the "canceled" spots next week if possible.

03/21 National - To be honest I forget about this race until yesterday. I have run the half here twice, and think it is a great race. The took the first three years to find a course that works well for the city and the runners. They have a real winner now. If you want to see DC on foot, without the crowds of the Marine Corps marathon, this is a great option. Plus it is just a short drive and a cheap hotel stay.

03/22 Shamrock - This flat coastal marathon is held at Virginia Beach, and also includes a half. Several RMEC runners have raced here is the past. It is a well organized event that grows every year. To my knowledge Derek, Cliff, Tim, John, Levi and Ron (half) are training for this.

05/03 Flying Pig - At one pint this looked to be the big race for the RMEC. Registration opened up in Januray. This is a very popular race, but I am not sure if it sells out. To my knowledge Frank, Tracy H, Ursula (half), Arthur, Ron, Amber, Levi, Misty, Jeff H, and Eric P are training for this. This race also has a half option.

06/20 Grandma's - This race is held in Duluth Minnesota, and is the premier US summer marathon. Typically (but not always) this race offers cool temps on a PR friendly course. Tracy P. is registered again as this is her old home town. There might be options for free lodging if you join Tracy on the trip. Frank, Ryan, Ursula, and I joined her in 2007 and had a blast. Tracy would LOVE a training partner for this race.

Please post comments here to confirm what you are training for. We all understand plans can change, so there is no shame if you change your mind later. It helps me plan our weekend runs, and it helps other RMEC members get inspired and know who to train with. Even if I mentioned your name above, please post a comment to confirm your plans, and what distance you are training for.