When I first decided I wanted to run a marathon, my type A tendencies took over and I researched a TON of marathons within driving distance. Obviously I looked at local races first. I initally considered the Marine Corp Marathon and would have absolutely chosen it but my girlfriend’s wedding was the night before. Obviously that wouldn’t work out (instead I just ran 20 miles the morning of her wedding!), so I searched for another race. I wanted something close by and first timer friendly. I kept seeing Richmond being referred to as “America’s Friendliest Marathon.” After reading that literally 20 times, I started googling Richmond Marathon race recaps. I seriously probably read 30 recaps — and get this…ALL of them were positive about the race.
I’ll be seeing a lot of these signs on Saturday.
After reading all the blogs, I thought about how I’d feel running a race outside of DC where my friends and family couldn’t be present to cheer me on. It definitely was kind of a bummer to realize I wouldn’t be able to have my parents there as I finish my first marathon, but there weren’t any other DC fall marathons and, honestly, Richmond seemed great. So definitely think about if you will require a race in your city before you sign up. I’m okay with not having a bunch of friends and family there, although I do kinda wish I had a friend who could “jump in” with me at say, mile 23 or so.
Oh and the other consideration for me was that Richmond is a “relatively” flat course. There are some changes in elevation, but no crazy ridiculous hills. In fact, the finish is a downhill which should make me look really fast in my finisher photos! When considering all of that, plus Richmond’s relatively reasonable price point (I paid $90), it was an easy decisions!
How do you choose races? Have you ever run a race out of town?
I was wondering how you came to pick this race. I’ve been seriously toying with the idea of taking on a marathon and one of the big questions is obviously which one. I’ve heard nothing but good things about Richmond – can’t wait to hear how it goes for you!!
Michelle @ Running with Attitude recently posted…Reassessing
It was definitely a process of elimination, Michelle. Another thing you might want to consider is if your potential marathon allows camelbaks (if you use them). Richmond DOES and I was so relieved after learning that this year, Marine Corps banned them. It sounds small but if you are used to training with it, it would require some adjusting!
I just find one and sign up. We don’t have a ton of options in this area. lol
Betsy recently posted…365/312: 30 Days of Thanks Day 9
For marathons, I check out the reviews on marathonguide.com to usually get a better idea of what the course is like. Like any online review site, you usually have to ignore the extreme reviews on either side, but a whole bunch of people bashing the organization of the race is usually a red flag for me.
I’ve also chosen some races as destination races and used the company Marathon Tours to plan it – went to Dublin and Greece this way!
For local races I usually just look for something that’s close, relatively inexpensive and if I’m lucky (usually not) doesn’t start too early in the AM, haha!
Colleen L recently posted…Cross Training on the Cheap
I ALWAYS forget about marathonguide — thanks for the reminder, Colleen! In the summer, I prefer REALLY early races to beat the heat — but I’m okay with a later start in the cooler months 🙂
squeeeeeeaaaaallll – that is all 🙂
Mar @ Mar on the Run! recently posted…OBX Race Recap #2: Southern Fried Half
love it! 🙂
This will be my third Richmond on Saturday. I love the course, I love the smaller size of the race, and usually the weather is spot on (it will be a bit warm this Saturday which is crazy after this week!). I hope you love it, too, and good luck with your first marathon!
misszippy recently posted…My Richmond Marathon “Plan”
I’m pretty excited, Amanda! Thanks for the well wishes — if you see a crazy girl in an Oiselle singlet and a tutu, say hello!
I never thought to look for recaps or reviews for races I’d like to participate in, what a great idea.
We live an a very small island on Lake Ontario (pop 450) and believe it or not we have an annual race here in August! Of course I did that one but every other race has been away. Some are 45 minutes, including out ferry crossing. We look for races in the Ottawa area because my husbands family lives there and we can stay with them saving some money.
Anita recently posted…New Look & WIAW
I’m so glad you’re doing Richmond! I am thinking about that one next year, I’ll have to hear all about it. I definitely want to go for smaller (i.e., non-massive DC races) next year.
Cynthia @ You Signed Up For What?! recently posted…Sinus Bradycardia & Runner Spotlight
Im not much of a runner but I’ve actually been learning little by little about marathons thought the bloggers I’m connecting with which I love! I hope you will share about your experience after you finish the marathon. Thank you for sharing with us at Countdown in Style! Don’t forget to come back Friday to see if you are featured! xoxo
BRITTNEI recently posted…Countdown in Style- Week 1
That’s awesome — thanks for starting the Countdown in Style! Loving checking out everyone 🙂
I’ve never run a marathon, but once trained for one. Ran 30 miles. It would’ve been out of town, in Hawaii! I’m starting to train for my first 5K (I’ve never trained for any other race). Good luck!
Thanks for sharing and linking up with Countdown in Style! Don’t forget to come back on Friday to see if you were featured!
~~April~~
100lbCountdown.com
April recently posted…30 Days of Thanksgiving with #FTSF