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Competitive Running

Betsey G.
Betsey G. Sendmail

What would you like to see in a local road race?

asked 4 months ago | Report

What distance, theme, time of year, time of day would you like to see in a local race? The race calendars these days are full. What makes an event attractive to you? What makes an event unique enough for you to sign up?

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10 answers

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  • Ashley M.
    Ashley M. Sendmail

    Well, in my town we only have 3 a year so i do those regardless of conditions. But i do travel to the bigger city about 30 min away for races once a month or so. Things I like are 1st, 2nd and 3rd awards in age groups instead of just first and I also like medals (I don't like when they get creative and give you something like a chili bowl for the "chill in the hills" race or a whistle or something:) I know that's petty though!). I like early start times in the hotter months and later in the colder. I like both 10ks and 5ks- I usually just pick one that feels right for the amount of training or schedule I am currently on. So really, it just comes down to awards! Ha- I sound so shallow!

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Michael G.
    Michael G. Sendmail

    FREE BEER :)

    answered 4 months ago |edited 4 months ago |Report

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  • Ashley M.
    Ashley M. Sendmail

    Ooh, yeah, I forgot about free beer!

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Lazaro R.
    Lazaro R. Sendmail

    I like a well thought out route that allows some control of roads by either police or volunteers especially at blind turns and a very organized and motivational finish line. I like having the large stopwatch over the finish line so you can see how you did, music playing as well as the inflatable arch so even though you didn't come in first place to break the ribbon you can still feel special by crossing something. Just my two cents worth.

    PS i vote for the free beer as well.

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Ernesto S.
    Ernesto S. Sendmail

    What I really like is people giving audible splits at mile markers. really allowed me to totally focus on holding threshold pace without having to read any numbers. i know, im a high maintenance baby

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Dan M.
    Dan M. Sendmail

    Tissue to wipe your nose in the finish chute.

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Patrick O.
    Patrick O. Sendmail

    Long Sleeve or Cutoff shirts vs regular t-shirt.

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Steve P.
    Steve P. Sendmail

    i've done an event in Minnesota that has a 5K and 10K race. they are spaced apart and offer special pricing if you choose to run both. the times are added together for scoring purposes. The 10K is first @ 8AM and 5K @ 930AM. It beats just running a single race for a t-shirt. Also i think unique distances are a draw for me. You don't seee too many 15 or 20K events around anymore. While i love some of the huge mega events with flashy tech shirts and timing chips, personalized bib numbers and all, the small town low-key race of 75 people with $15 entry and free popsicles after is a good way to spend a morning.

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Melissa J.
    Melissa J. Sendmail

    i like bling (medals), fun get together after with food and beer, well though out logistics and having my family be able to support me along the route - so i guess you can count that one as local.

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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  • Morey B.
    Morey B. Sendmail

    1. distance: 8mi to half mary
    2. magnificent course. Country road, through the woods, something. just not down the street.
    3. well organized volunteers.
    4. chip timing
    5. certified/measured course
    6. Recovery drink served at the end for the longer races.
    7. Safe course. Blocked from traffic. Officers directing traffic where needed. We want to feel "taken care of" so we can just concentrate on our running.

    OK- first it was t-shirts, then tech shirts. I've got too many of both. Think of another give-away. Socks? A running hat? Reflective gear? Be creative.

    oh- did anyone mention FREE BEER?

    answered 4 months ago |Report

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