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.
I know I said I had to get ready for class, but I cannot help but put my two cents in here! I am running Coeur D’Alene next year! I am excited to get to it finally! My plans for it last year were squashed by the knee injury! I am following this race up with Seattle Rock and Roll on June 23 this year (so long as school doesn’t get in the way). Then on July 8th I will finish my Marathon Maniacs plight and finally join them with the Missoula Marathon! I am excited to finally come into the ranks with this one! Another Marathon that I really want to do is Eugene, April 27th I believe this year and one that I could finally do because of timing and all with Bloomsday, and I would if it were a week after Bloomsday! I will make it here at some point, but it is one that I have planned to run since I started my 50 states journey!