HikeArizona.COM

Before I start exploring the running websites out there, I wanted to see if anybody here has run a marathon...I'm doing my first this March...and have a few questions....

Which one are you running in ?

I'm planning on doing the valley of the sun marathon...http://www.valleyofthesunmarathon.com

Hoolie's bio says he is an ex-marathoner, he can probably give you some info, tips, etc.

Colin, I've run Prescott. Would figure I pick one of the hardest in the country for my first. Mostly I'm a mid distance runner, 10k and 1/2 marathons. I plan on running the Lost Dutchmen the beginning of the year and then Prescott again in May. Actually my avatar is from the Whiskey Row. I run them not just to beat my previous time or to say I can run a a marathon, but to prove to myself I have it in me to get up and train. That's the hard part, esp. as the weather gets cooler. Any questions I'll help if I can.

Colin, If you haven't checked it out yet, Arizona Road Racers has a good website. It has a good (although not complete) list of events and many links to other things that may interest you. I also know of a few people that have gone through the 1st marathon training program. They have found it beneficial and it includes 2 events prior to the marathon. Not all have gone on to run a marathon but have at least become more efficient runners. If you'd like we could get together for some runs. I am not much of a night runner but do best in the morning, mainly I think because I procrastinate if I don't run in the morning. Just let me know.

Cindy Coons wrote:I run them not just to beat my previous time or to say I can run a a marathon, but to prove to myself I have it in me to get up and train. That's the hard part, esp. as the weather gets cooler. )

That's why I'm doing it...it's been on my list for awhile, now it's time to step up...thanks for the offer!

Wiz- thanks...Hoolie and I have been chatting.

ck1 wrote: That's why I'm doing it...it's been on my list for awhile, now it's time to step up...thanks for the offer!

I admire you ck1, I am just a 10k'r and never really had the heart, nor desire to push for a marathon. My claim to any long distance was a 51 mile walk I did in 29 Palms, California. In one day. Good luck on reaching your goal.

Completing a marathon is one of my proudest feats; did it in 1984 at San Francisco Marathon, in 3:36:08.6 which put me in the top 20% of thos over 40. I was 47 year old. Have the certificate and my medal on the wall just to the left of my computer. Like to tell folks that,at the 16 mile mark, I was within 100 feet of the Kenyan who won ....that's where I was heading out toward the Golden Gate Bridge....of course he was heading IN and was at his 22 mile mark :roll: Good luck Colin...just make yourself run even when you don't wanna, but listen to your body and don't run when it's saying "NO!"

Good luck, dude, I can appreciate the effort this will cost you. Never made it myself, but I did run a couple of 30K's which was quite enough, thank you!

Hooli, 3:36? I am so impressed. Was that your only marathon? I can't imagine with a time like that you wouldn't continue to do more. I think that's awesome!

That was my only marathon. Really only did it so I could say I did it. Did lots of 10k's and ran regularly but the motivation to do a marathon was gone....been there done that sorta thing. Started running when in my early 30's to work off the stress of my job; get home from work, run three to six miles and I could relax and sleep well otherwise I was a basket case. My daughter used to pray that I wouldn't get an injury 'cause she says I was a real "Grump" when I couldn't run! Bet the word she thought to herself wasn't "Grump"!

Do you run at all anymore? 'Tis the season, there is at least 2 races of some sort every weekend. I do them mostly for the T-shirts

Hey I wanna do some running! I will have to check out that website posted earlier. My dad used to take me to the 10K's and 5K's here in Arizona. I was five then and have never lost that love for running. Hooli, I can totally identify with you!

Gosh Kristyn, You must have lots of energy. With all the hiking your always up to and I believe you said you have a few children, pretty amazing. I run with my daughter who is close to you in age (21). We live in Tempe. If you ever want to get together to run I'd be up for it. Whether we run together or alone we are always looking for new compnay and conversation. If your interested let me know your schedule and we'll see what we can pull together. Cindy

Don't run anymore; quit running in 1992 when I retired from BofA....end of all the stress I ran to work off....no more need to run. Running was a necessity while I was working and I enjoyed it because it did burn off the stress, but can't really say I ever ran for the fun of it. Walking, hiking or bicycling, I can enjoy the scenery that I never got to look at while running!

I completely understand. Since I run to burn off the stress that (although they are a blessing) comes from having 7 children I suppose I'll never stop running

I am up for some group runs. The only problem is, I have to squeeze running into my schedule. Lately, I have been hiking every Saturday, lift three days a week, run two days a week. Boy do I look forward to those runs. Yes, I do have two children. In order to run, due to my husband being away, I have to take my oldest to her gymnastics class, then tote my two year old along in my jogging stroller. Luckily she enjoys it, that is when I squeeze in my dog's exercise as well. He goes along with me. Yup I am a busy woman, hopefully that will slow down when my hubby is home full time. I sure am getting old fast.

Just dawned on me....Olesma's working for BofA now! Hey Olesma.....you takin' up running yet

Just to let you runners know, the Phoenix New Times 10k is coming up in a couple of weeks. Awesome event.