Planning Your 2010 Race Calendar

Last week, I found out that I was chosen in the lottery to run the D.C. Cherry Blossom Race in April. I was really excited, because I really thought I’d have a slim chance of making the lottery. Realizing that I now had to make plans to fly to D.C., I felt it was time to really start figuring out what races I want to run next year.

These days, everyone is trying to stay within a budget and be conscious of where there money goes. Running isn’t an expensive sport, but it can really add up. Race fees, buying a tech shirt, new shoes, travel costs, fuel..it all turns into a mini-vacation. The way I plan out my race calendar is by going through different race calendars to see what races I’m interested in. Since I’ve only been running 3 years, I’m always on the lookout to try a new race and see different places.

Here are some factors I consider in choosing a race:

• Cost- Race entry fees have been steadily increasing, so you have to balance the cost of bigger more expensive races with the smaller ones that don’t cost as much.
• Location- How much will it cost me to get there? Do I have to get a hotel? Are there special rates? Is there transportation to and from the Start/Finish?
• Race Date- What’s the weather like that time of year? How does it fit in with the rest of your committments? Do you have enough time to train and recover afterward?
• Schwag- Tech tee, medal, pre or post race fuel, beer garden, nice goodie bag? Every race is different, and you have to consider what you want. Some races, I’m okay with not getting a medal. Others draw me to their event because they offer amazing giveaways like sweatshirts, sundaes or a Tiffany’s necklace (the famed Nike Women’s Marathon)
• Course- Scenery is important because it serves as entertainment while running. What kind of aid stations are offered? What does the elevation map look like? If you have a PR goal, you’ll want to consider a flatter course.

Personally, I love schwag and a beautiful course, so those really factor into my decision making.  Some of my favorite races have usually offered one or the other-

Nike Women’s Marathon- Beautiful scenery + schwag and amazing course support
Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon- GREAT course, GREAT scenery, perfect weather, and you get a wine glass with wine tastings at the end. What more could you want?
Fresno Two Cities Marathon- Great schwag and runner amenities
Irongirl 10K Del Mar- Pretty course, great schwag
Malibu Marathon/Half- Ocean views, beach finish, with a beach towel! Beware the hills though.

I’m still finalizing my race calendar for next year, but it will be a mix of local LA races and traveling for fun new races. It’s going to be a fun year of racing!

Useful Links for Planning Your Race Calendar
Racevine.com

Active.com Running Calendar

Runner’s World Race Finder

Marathonguide.com