Well so far, I’ve heard that people are planning for the Pittsburgh Marathon and the BMO Vancouver, BC Marathon. Both will be happening on my 45th birthday, May 6! The Vancouver course looks awesome, by the way. It’s a new route this year and runs along the water front, past the university and through Vancouver’s lively downtown.

If you’re looking for a marathon to train for, here are a few that I’ve either run OR that I’m looking at for the next year or two:

The Lost Dutchman Marathon in Arizona takes place on February 19. I’ve run the half here a couple of times, and Bill ran the full. This is a point to point which begins near Gold Canyon and makes it’s way to Apache Junction through the scenic landscape of the Superstition Mountains with a total loss of elevation of about 500 feet. It’s not a big race, and the price is reasonable: $80 before January 1.

The Trail Triple Crown Marathon in Delaware on April 28, 2012. This is a double loop trail race. On the plus side, there is no cut-off for finishing. On the negative side, the race comes with a warning that it’s a hard course and will ruin your shoes. Somehow this makes it even more intriguing to me, especially since it happens eight days before the Pittsburgh race. Would I be crazy to do it? Probably, but I’m thinking about it. Would love to hear if anyone out there has done this race. Anyone?

The Coeur D’Alene Marathon in Idaho happens on May 27. I’ve done this one and can highly recommend it. You’ll get views of the Coeur D’Alene Lake and very probably perfect weather. You can also stay in any number of the resorts in the area. If you’re looking for a well-supported race with a pretty flat course, do this one. It would be a great option for a first-timer.

What are you planning for? Let us know.

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