Where will you run your next marathon ?

Roberto Stagnetti, the president of the Night Marathon has accepted to answer a few questions to let us discover the second edition of the Night Marathon in Italy.

Hello Roberto, on June 6th, you’ll be organizing the Night Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
NightMarathon 2008 will be held in Jesolo and Cavallino Treporti, two wonderful beach places very close to Venice (only 15 Km far). You can reach us by car or by plane at Venice Airport.
Jesolo is the longest beach in Europe that await for runners to give them a thousand of entertainment programs: sea and beach sports activities, tournaments and competitions of every kind for folks of every age, all along 15 km of a golden sand.
Cavallino Treporti is a land suspended between the sea and lagoon, an extraordinarily beautiful Nature Park, a unique location to be visited and to be loved in a pure freedom way, where Mother Nature is respected and beloved, where hospitality and warmness is a must. Beaches and pinewoods, orchards, hundreds of calm channels, allows You to have a deep relaxing holiday, and brings you naturally to walk alone on the desert sand, take a bike and have a visit of beautiful ancient boroughs, and have a really heartbreaker sunset on the Venice lagoon.

How old is the marathon and why was it created in the first place?
This is the second edition; we thought to start this project because there weren’t any marathons at night in Italy.

It is a night marathon. What is so special about a night race?
A wonderful sunset on the venitian lagoon will be matched with a long way in a loneliness-like emotions and quite darkness one. And at the end, in Jesolo, an extraordinarily warm public exciting you on the trace will make this race an unforgettable one.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The route is totally flat and very scenic; runners could improve themselves in the Half Marathon competitive race or in the Full Marathon one. It’s not so easy to describe an intense emotion, just try it!

What formalities do international runners need to fulfill to run your race?
Foreign runners do have to subscribe themselves only via electronic form on our web portal www.nightmarathon.it/eng and sign up an “organizing disclaimer letter” when picking up the bib on the race day at the expo.

How many runners do you expect on Saturday night? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
We expect from 4.000 to 5.000 runners, both professional both amateurs.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Yes indeed! We organize a very popular 4K “HappyMarathon” for families and for everyone who prefer not to “stress” themselves. Furthermore we organize a “Kids’ Run” for babies under 6 years.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
During the daytime weather is quite warm (22° medium relevation) but you have to consider that starting time is scheduled at 8.30 pm, so that runners will have no problems with weather.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
NightMarathon is already famous all over Europe for being a miscellaneous event: concerts, animations, an half pipe show, jokers and so on will be the other side of the moon of the official races

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Jesolo before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
In the daytime an endless series of refreshment stands, bars and restaurants along the beach provides food and drink to thousands of suntan buffs and people who just can’t get enough of the sun and the sea. But it’s just at night that you compare Jesolo as a firework! From 8 o’clock in the evening to 6 o’clock in the morning, Jesolo is open only to pedestrian traffic and thus becomes an unlimited, fantastic fun hourse brimming with merriment and a pinch of craziness where new trends in night life are created and then spread to become musts in Italy and abroad.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Night Marathon ?
Just came for the Run, Let’s Stay for the Fun!

Thank you Roberto.

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Night Marathon
• Night Marathon on 42k195.com
• Book a hotel room near Jesolo

Shawn and his wife are the new owners of Lethbridge’s local running store, Runner’s Soul. They both grew up here in Lethbridge and are very excited with the opportunity to give back to the community through the races and clinics that they put on.

Photo from RTPeat

Hello, on June 1st, you’ll be organizing the Music from the Soul Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
The Music from the Soul Marathon is located in Lethbridge, Alberta. Lethbridge is located in the heart of the southern Alberta prairies, a 2 hour drive south of Calgary and an hour drive from the Rocky Mountains .

The marathon is 3 years old. Why was it created in the first place?
Runner’s Soul has the largest marathon club in Canada with around 450 members each year. With those kinds of numbers, we figured it was time that Lethbridge had it’s own marathon as well.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The marathon follows a scenic route through the city. Designed as a fast course, the route is mainly flat but does have one climb of 300 feet as we take advantage of the unique landscape of the Lethbridge river valley, locally described as coulees. Mainly on paved paths through local parks, the course will take runners past the local Japanese Gardens, through downtown Lethbridge, and under the longest train bridge in Canada.There will be a $150 prime for the first person to reach a designated point on the marathon as well. Just a little something to add some interest for the lead pack.

How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
I expect to have around 700 runners start the race on Sunday morning. The race will likely attract a wide variety of runners as well, from the first time marathoner to those looking to qualify for Boston. Local athlete Kip Kangogo will be looking to run the marathon this year after winning the half-marathon last year in a blistering time of 1:06. This will be his first marathon and he’ll be looking for a finishing time around 2:25.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Yes, there will be other races during the weekend. We will be running the Half-Marathon again this year as well as the Kids Marathon. The Kids Marathon will see 500 young athletes finish the final 2 km of the marathon distance they have accumulated during the previous month to two months of training. This year will involve a new event as well; the Team Relay Marathon event. The Team Relay Marathon involves teams of two to five members running the marathon distance. Each leg will be approximately 8 km long with the transitions occuring in designated areas.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
Southern Alberta weather can be unpredictable at that time of year. While I certainly don’t expect snow, rain is a possibility in the spring time. We had great conditions for last years event with starting temperatures around 15 C.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
Being the Music from the Soul Marathon, we will have musicians set-up at Music Stations along the course. Athletes will be able to enjoy music from the beginning to the end of the event and can recharge their batteries at a post race breakfast.

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Lethbridge before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
Streetside Eatery is our host restaurant and is a great place to eat in the city. As I had mentioned earlier, the Japanese Gardens is a popular local attraction and the coulees are always fun to explore, from Fort Whoop-up to the Helen Schuler Nature Centre. Other important attractions within an hour drive of Lethbridge include Waterton National Park and “Head Smashed In” Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage site.
Banff National Park is also an easy 3.5 hour drive from Lethbridge, a great area for a holiday after the race.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Music from the Soul Marathon ?
If you’re looking for a well run, fast marathon in a great community, the Music from the Soul is your race.

Thank you Shawn.

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Music from the Soul Marathon
• Music from the Soul Marathon on 42k195.com
• Book a hotel room in Lethbridge

Steve is a Peace Corps Volunteer living for the next two years in Pacasmyo, Peru. There, he works with artisans, assists in tourism, works in an orphanage, teaches a weekly exercise class to senior citizens, and in March will start coaching athletes in Special Olympics.

Hello, on July 6th, you’ll be organizing the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo. Can you tell us where it is located?
Pacasmayo is located on the northern coast of Perú, S.A. in the department of La Libertad, about 100 Km north of Perú’s third largest city, Trujillo.

How old is the marathon and why was it created in the first place?
This is the inaugural year of the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo. Although Pacasmayo is well known throughout the international surfing community for its world class waves, it is less known for its world class off-road running and biking. Our goal during the next two years is to begin the process of turning Pacasmayo into the sports capital of Perú. Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo was created as the first step in achieving that goal. Therefore, we have created a safe venue in the northern part of Peru where runners can achieve a personal running goal. In addition, we wanted to bring recognition to a society of local artisans known collectively as Pakastone. These talented artisans make animal figurines and other products out of marble. In fact, the Pakastone artisans have generously volunteered to make and donate one-of-a kind hand-marble trophies to be presented to the first place men and women finishers in each of the races. The Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo is also unique in that any profits that we earn will go to purchase products for the special education school in Pacasmayo. No one associated with the marathon is accepting any money for their involvement.

As any race director will tell you, starting a marathon requires an incredible amount of time and energy. Fortunately, we have a tremendous staff. Hugo Cortez is from Pacasmayo and has been involved in all phases of organizing and acquiring sponsors; Ashley Toombs, a fellow Peace Corps Volunteer, is marketing the marathon to the world; Melissa Atchley, a friend and consultant from the United States, has generously donated countless hours in designing our website, and our other committee members have made significant contributions in order to make the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo a reality in record time.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
First, I will refer the reader to our website as all four off-road courses are described in detail under race information. But, in general, we like to use three words to describe the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo; exciting, exotic and exceptional. We feel those three words sum up the uniqueness of this maratón. The participants will be running on desert roads and paths that are composed of hard packed sand and dirt which makes for a fast off-road running surface. The course is flat and never more than 100 feet above sea level with the exception of a couple of hills: Heartbreak and “No Mas”. And, the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean is almost always in view. Throw in the usual blue sky and you have the ingredients for an exceptional marathon setting.

How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
Since this is our first marathon in Pacasmayo, it would only be a guess if I gave you an answer. However, I can tell you what our goals are in terms of numbers. We have set our goal to be a total of 101-200 runners for all four events in the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo. There will be four major cities in central and northern Peru that we will draw from; Lima, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Cajamarca City. In addition, there are approximately 145 Peace Corps volunteers serving in Peru. About 25% of the volunteers have expressed interest in running in the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo. In fact, several of the volunteers have started running groups in their towns and are using the trip to Pacamayo as an incentive for their young athletes to stay committed to their running goal. Moreover, we have already received inquiries from participants outside of Peru who want to run a marathon in South America. So, we are optimistic about achieving our goal of 101 – 200 participants. That being said, long distance running has never been very popular in Peru. In Lima, a city of about 9 million people, I am told that their annual marathon only attracts about 500 runners. So, whether or not we achieve our goal of 101-200 participants will be decided in the next four weeks. It depends on how effective we are in marketing the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo in the last two weeks of February and the first two weeks of March. I have great confidence in our staff and I believe we are up to challenge. I want to thank www.42K195.com for doing their part in helping us publicize the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo to their audience worldwide.

What formalities do international runners need to fulfill to run your race?
International runners need to contact me directly at scambridge@gmail.com. As an incentive in participating in the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo, we are waiving the entry fee for all runners living outside of Peru.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Yes, there will be a total of four events all taking place on July 6th, 2008. At 8:30 a.m. we will start the 42Km. That will be followed by the 21Km at 8:35. At 8:45 the 10Km will begin and at 8:50 a.m. the 5Km run / walk will start.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
July is considered a winter month for the coast of Peru. We should have ideal running conditions. The temperatures normally average between 55 degrees F. and 65 degrees F. in the morning. And, you can leave your rain gear at home. We receive less than 1 inch of precipitation each year.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
Yes, on Saturday there will be an artisan’s fair during the day. The Pakastone artisans will be displaying their products along with several of our sponsors. At 5 p.m., the runners, volunteers and artisans will be part of a parade that enables the local residents to show their appreciation and welcome the participants to Pacasmayo. In the evening, following the pre-race information meeting, we will have a drawing for prizes that have been donated by running companies and stores in Pacasmayo. After the drawing, several restaurants will be offering the customary pre-race pasta dinner as part of their menu selection. On Sunday, following the awards ceremony, there will be a post-race party for all participants and volunteers.

The marathon finished what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Pacasmayo before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
The Estación Hotel is located on the ocean, and has an excellent menu at very reasonable prices. For fish, it is hard to beat Tabaris restaurant. And, the El Gallo Pinto caters to tourists and oftentimes has live music on the weekends. Our marathon committee will provide a list of restaurants to the participants when they pick-up there race packets on Saturday. As far as sightseeing goes, I think the view that the runners have when they approach the little town of Milagro is the best view of the weekend. That being said, the participants will want to walk up the hill near the cemetery and catch a view of the sunset while overlooking Pacasmayo. It can be breathtaking!

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Marathon Internacional de Pacasmayo?
If running a marathon in South America is on your life’s list of “things to do”, then I invite you to the sports capital of Perú in order to participate in one of the most exciting, exotic and exceptional off-road marathons you will ever experience; Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo.

Thank you Steve and good luck for the first edition.

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo
• Maratón Internacional de Pacasmayo on 42k195.com

Micha Havreluk is a 57 year old Germanic languages teacher. He has run 191 marathons at the time this interview was conducted and plans to run his 200th in June 2008 at the Marathon du vignoble d’Alsace in France. He organizes two marathons in Belgium and is the webmaster of two running clubs www.addemer.com and www.addgenk.be.
If you want to learn more about Micha, visit his personal website.

Hello Micha, you’re the proud organizer of two marathons in the province of Limburg, Belgium : LPM Marathon and Maratongeren. In this interview, we’ll focus on Maratongeren which will take place on May first. How old is the marathon. Why was it created in the first place?
Well, when you read this, there was never a Tongeren marathon before! Reason : it’s the first and probably the last!
Since last year our athletics club ‘Athletic club De Demer’ has been the owner of a brand new race track (8 lanes) in a renewed stadium ‘De Motten’, close to the center of Tongeren City.
Since then there have been several competitions on the track. In order to make the existence of the new track known to a wider range of people, we thought it would be opportune to get ‘off track-runners’ acquainted with the track. So the start and finish line is drawn on the track.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The route is well known to a lot of runners from the Euregion (Belgium, Holland and Germany) because the famous Tungri-run - a yearly half marathon (in 2008 for the 19th successive year) - is held on the 1st of May.
So it’s simple : 2 laps of 21 K makes 42 K. The course runs through the beautiful south of the province of Limburg, partly through the Kevie, a green lung of meadows and wetland in a protected wildlife reservation. It also runs through the typical cornfields and hollow field-tracks, slightly up and down but doable! But you always keep the stately basilica of Tongeren in sight, as a safe beacon to guide you to the finish line.

How many runners do you expect on Thursday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
Belgium has no marathon tradition, even big cities as Antwerp and Brussels can not get more than 2000 runners on the start line. So we stay modest and hope that about 500 runners will come to the ‘maratongeren’. Any runner who wants to run in a beautiful setting like Tongeren’s surroundings is welcome!

Do you organize other races during the same day? If so, on what distances?
Of course, besides the marathon - like each year - the Tungri-run exists of more races : 21 K, 10 K, 5 K, 2 K and a 1 K.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect in Tongeren?
You may not believe this, but the 1st of May has been a sunshiny day, ever since the first edition … a rare exception possible ….

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
Not especially, but there’s always a lot to do on the 1st of May in Tongeren. The Tungri-run is one of the biggest ’street races’ in the country. More than 2500 runners will fill the streets and even more spectators complete the sports scene that day. Moreover, Tongeren is the oldest town in Belgium, an ancient Roman town with lots of historical remainders … so it would be a shame to leave Tongeren without visiting these historic sites!

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Tongeren before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
As I said before, a visit to the town center is a must … the statue of Ambiorix, the leader of the Eburon tribe, who beat a part of Ceasar’s army near Tongeren, overlooks the market place, where there are a lot of nice ‘grand cafe’s’ and restaurants with nice pavements …

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Maratongeren?
If you want to run a unique marathon, uniquely because it will never be organized again, you must register for the Maratongeren, in the beautiful historic scenery of Belgium’s oldest town.

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Maratongeren
• Maratongeren on 42k195.com
• Book a hotel room in Tongeren

Petri Huhtala is a 44 year old freewheeling civil engineer and a member of YMCA of Oulu which is organizing this marathon. He used to participate in this event as a runner but for past 3-4 years he has joined the organization committee too. Over the past decade he has run 21 marathons, in seven different countries, and each time he says he has received the same wonderful exhilaration at the end of the race – even without looking his finishing time – He has become aware that reaching the finish line in a marathon is to enter a top-notch group: only about one-tenth of one percent of the population does it. After the many marathon experiences he warmly recommends everyone to finish at least one marathon - it surely will leave you feeling like a champion – that how he has felt every single time!

Hello, on May 24th, you’ll be organizing the Terwa Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
Our event is arranged in Oulu which is Finland’s sixth largest city with population of ~130,000. Oulu was founded in 1605 and it locates on the shore of the Bay of Bothnia, along the Oulu River. Oulu has transformed itself from a city built around an economy of pine tar (terwa in Finnish) and salmon into a modern forerunner of high technology.

How old is the marathon and why was it created in the first place?
In late 1980’s there was a growing demand for road races in Oulu region and finally in 1989 a group of local YMCA runners joined their forces and arranged the first Oulu Marathon which included also quarter and half marathon distances. The first event attracted about 300 runners and through the 1990’s the turnout remained quite stable from 300 to 400 participants. It was not until 2002 when event started to grow in popularity. That year event was renewed and renamed to Terwa Run and Marathon. YMCA of Oulu has been and is the event organizer and year 2008 is special because we celebrate event’s 20th anniversary.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The route is 21.1 km long and marathon runners loop it twice. The race start and finish are at the same place - few steps onshore from Bay of Bothnia. The course is relatively flat and fast: the difference between the highest and the lowest point of the course is 16 meters. This course is perfect to improve your personal best time and is an easy course for first time marathon runners. It safely runs along paved pedestrian and bicycle ways in very scenic waterfront, over several bridges and through peaceful neighborhoods of Oulu. Terwa Marathon course is measured by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) certified measurer.

How many runners do you expect on Saturday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
We expect about 2000 participants: ~500 runners for the marathon and ~1500 for the shorter distances (including children’s Minimarathon). Last year we had 378 marathon finishers and 1556 finishers in shorter distances. We want to attract all kind of runners. Running is everyman sport. It doesn’t matter who or how old you are, or what you look like, or how much you weigh - you are warmly welcome to our event, be yourself and become a runner, just as hundreds and thousands of others have done too!

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Besides the marathon we organize three other races during Saturday: simultaneously with marathon 10K and half marathon distances and on the morning, before the main event start, we organize free Minimarathon for children (age 0-13 years).

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
Late May is probably the best time of the year to run a marathon in Oulu. It may be little windy but the average maximum temperature on Race Day is around 15 degrees.
(2007 provided soft rain, calm wind and a maximum temperature of 12 degrees).

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
On Friday evening, day before the main event, we arrange a pasta party in Holiday Club Oulun Eden which is our event headquarters. After the finish line each runner receives a finisher medal and has free admission into Holiday Club Oulun Eden Spa which offers unique ways to recover from the achievement: different types of saunas, plenty of water fun along with many types of other relaxing water treatments.
An award ceremony is arranged late afternoon on Saturday: trophies and prizes are handed to overall top five winners and to the first three age division winners. There are many drawing prizes too. Nightlife of city is very vivid and versatile, so surely everyone who desires will find suitable place to celebrate their personal achievements at Saturday night.

The marathon finished what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Oulu before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
For first timers I recommend to study LOOK at OULU brochure which helps to discover Oulu or visit the Oulu Tourism website. Race headquarters itself, Holiday Club Oulun Eden, is good place to stay, eat and relax. In downtown of Oulu is ‘Rotuaari’, a lively pedestrian street, which invites you to enjoy the pleasant and relaxed atmosphere year-round with good shopping, cozy cafes and restaurants with their patios. Top three personal favorite restaurants in Oulu are Istanbul, Pannu and Sokeri-Jussin Kievari. Top three personal favorite Bubs & Bars are Gloria, Jumpru and Leskinen.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Terwa Marathon ?
Life is short, but a marathon stretches it out for a little while, giving you enough time to realize that life is good … you have the good health to move, the heart to know you can do it, the endurance to get there, and now you have good opportunity to do it in our beautiful and friendly event - life is short, so run long and enjoy - welcome to Oulu!

Thank you very much Petri

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Terwa Marathon
• Video of the 2007 edition
• Terwa Marathon on 42k195.com

Jeff Fultz has worked with the Indian Health Service and lived on the Navajo Nation since 1991 which has been a wonderful experience according to him. He has served as Race Director for the Shiprock Marathon & Relays for five years now.

Photo by DR Ranch

Hello, on May 3rd, you’ll be organizing the 25th Shiprock Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
The Shiprock Marathon & Relays take place entirely on the Navajo Nation. The races begin nearby Red Valley Arizona, and conclude in Shiprock, New Mexico.

The marathon is now 25 years old. Why was it created in the first place?
Events began through the efforts of several individuals in the nearby city of Farmington, New Mexico. They wanted to “give back” to the native community of Shiprock through developing the races. These original organizers were all active runners themselves, and a race passing nearby the famous Shiprock seemed like it would be an awesome experience.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The Marathon course is a point to point road race. It begins out near Red Valley Arizona at an elevation close to 6000’. The race passes through some beautiful high desert scenery on rolling hills towards the city of Shiprock (elevation 4800’). The 1800’ volcanic cinder cone of Shiprock itself is passed at about the halfway point of the Marathon. The last 6 miles of the course are flat or on a slight downhill grade, which adds to the appeal of the course. The first 20 miles of the Marathon course will have the road closed to through traffic. Only event vehicles will be out on this part of the course. The final 6.2 miles will have a lane closure of the Hwy 491 to provide a nice buffer between traffic and all participants (and volunteers supporting events).

How many runners do you expect on Saturday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
With the advertisements in Runners World and the good coverage throughout numerous websites, I expect to fill all our competitive events. In the past few years we have had runners coming from most of the United States, Canada, England and parts of Europe. We have even had a runner join us from Asia.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
We have a Marathon (capped at 150 runners); Marathon Relay – 5 person Coed (capped at 150 teams); and a Half-Marathon (capped at 300 runners).

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
Weather is quite unpredictable in the 4-corners region of the United States at any time of year. In 2007 we had snow flurries at the start of the races, the year before it was in the low 40s (Farenheit scale) and warmed up to the low 80s by the afternoon.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
We will have Navajo artisans and vendors selling goods nearby our finish line area at Navajo Community College. Music will be provided as well as many various refreshments, massage services, etc…

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Shiprock before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
There is a great deal to see in the 4-corners area of the United States. We are close by Monument Valley Utah; Canyon de Chelly Arizona; Durango Colorado (beautiful cowboy town with Rocky Mountains all around); The Grand Canyon is a couple hundred miles away on a scenic high desert drive across the Navajo Nation.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Shiprock Marathon ?
This is the only Marathon event of its kind on the Navajo Nation, and the course goes by the ancient Shiprock monolith, called Tse bi Tae -”Rock with Wings” by the Navajo.

Thank you very much Jeff

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Shiprock Marathon
• Shiprock Marathon on 42k195.com

Today, I’m publishing an interview with Sandi Heal the Administrative Manager of the Royal Victoria Marathon.
Sandi Heal was born and raised in Victoria, BC. She has been with the Royal Victoria Marathon since the 2004 event and has a background in event planning, administrative services and acute-care nursing.

Sandi Heal and Race Director, Rob Reid

Hello, on October 12th, you’ll be organizing the 29th Royal Victoria Marathon. The marathon is now 29 years old. Why was it created in the first place?
A local running club, the Prairie Inn Harriers started the Royal Victoria Marathon in 1980 from the simple premise that Victoria lacked races of provincial or national importance and therefore needed its own marathon. The event was to promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle through participation in physical activities, especially running.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
The route starts in beautiful downtown Victoria, near the Inner Harbour, Fairmont Empress Hotel. It follows a scenic waterfront route through the communities of James Bay, Oak Bay and Fairfield. The Marathon and Half Marathon pass a memorial statue of Terry Fox and our cruise ship terminal before finishing in front of the and BC Legislative Buildings. The route has some mild undulations but no big hills. The marathon can be used to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
We expect to attract 10,000 runners on race weekend. It’s a wonderful impact on our city. Our event is walker and runner friendly. Participants of all fitness levels are welcome.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
We host a Marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1 km), 8km Road Race and 1.2km Kids Run.

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
Perfect weather to run a fall marathon in. The average high temperature on race day is 14°C, or 57°F. Typically it will be between 6°C and 10°C at 8:30 a.m. when the marathon starts. Rain is unlikely, but not out of the question, so we recommend that participants be prepared in the event of showers.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
Race weekend kicks off on Friday, October 10 at the Victoria Conference Centre. We have a Race Expo for participants and the general public. It’s free! Saturday, October 11, the Expo is still open but we also have Course Tours, Pre-Race Massage, and a Carbo Gala Dinner (seats 300).

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Victoria before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
veErywhere we go to promote our event, the one common comment we receive from people that have been here for our event before is: “We LOVE Victoria!”

We have a whole host of exciting attractions. Butchart Gardens, the Royal BC Museum, Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria Art Gallery, high tea at the Empress Hotel, local golf courses, spas, salons, shopping and dining. A great restaurant to visit is Milestone’s on the Inner Harbour or the Bengal Lounge in the Fairmont Empress. Tourism Victoria is a wonderful resource for those looking for accommodation, attractions, packages and things to do. Visit www.tourismvictoria.com.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Royal Victoria Marathon ?
A top notch, destination marathon event that has a personal touch; great for first timers one and for returnees.

Thank you very much Sandi for your time and good luck for the organization of the marathon.

If you need more information :

• Official Website of the Royal Victoria Marathon
• Royal Victoria Marathon on 42k195.com
• Book a hotel room in Victoria

To present you the Yakima Canyon Marathon, I’m honored that it’s director Bob Dolphin has accepted to answer a few questions.

Bob introduced himself as an aging, marathon runner/walker doing the best he can with what he have left….at age 78. He also assists his wife Lenore in directing the Yakima River Canyon Marathon and the 100 Marathon Club North America. He was born in Worcester, Massasuchetts (near the start of the Boston Marathon - You can call that predestination) on October 4, 1929. He was an Eagle Scout and a high school track and cross country runner. Between 1946 and 1955 he was in the U.S. Marines for a total of six and a half years…..going from private to first lieutenant. He received his BA in Entomology in 1958 from San Jose State College in California and his PhD in Insect Ecology from Purdue University in 1965. He worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 1965-1988 as a research entomologist and lab director and retired in 1988 to become a full-time marathoner!

Photo of the Yakima Canyon taken by Scott Butner

Hello, on April 5th, you’ll be organizing the Yakima River Canyon Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
The Yakima River Canyon Marathon is located in south central Washington State in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. The city of Yakima (near the finish area) is 150 miles from Seattle and is east of the Cascade Mountains. The host town is Selah, and it’s just a few miles north of Yakima. The start of the race is 35 miles north in Ellensburg (115 miles from Seattle).

How old is the marathon ? Why was it created in the first place?
The YRCM is seven years old. April 5, 2008, will mark the 8th running of this
race. In 2000 several runners encouraged the Yakima Hard Core Runners Club to consider having a marathon in the 23 mile long Yakima River Canyon, a nearby scenic recreational attraction. An exploratory committee agreed, and my wife (Lenore Dolphin) and I, as club members, were asked to be the race directors.

What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
There is a two-lane state highway along the tree-lined, clear river throughout the curved, relatively flat canyon that is bordered by cliffs and high bluffs and ridges covered by sagebrush and bunch grass. The 23 mile long Canyon Road defines most of the course. The race begins in Ellensburg and the first three miles on this point-to-point course are on flat, paved country roads through rural Kittitas Valley to the canyon. Here there is a sense of tranquility as one runs through the canyon with its stark volcanic cliffs and towering ridges. The river is turbulent as clear waters rush through it. The scenery changes constantly due to the many curves of the river and road. Wildlife is common with Mountain Sheep, Mule Deer, and Bald Eagles frequently seen. The last three miles are downhill to the end of the canyon and the finish line near Selah.

How many runners do you expect on Saturday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract?
A year ago in 2007 we had 523 entrants for the marathon. Because the marathon is growing in popularity, I would expect the same number or more for this year. We get a lot of first time marathoners, and they are given special certificates at the awards ceremony/meal. Our participants are of different ages and marathon experiences as in most marathons. In addition, we have many seasoned runners who are members of the Marathon Maniacs Club, 50 States Marathon Club and Group, and the 100 Marathon Club North America. The 100 Marathon Club which Lenore and I direct will have a reunion this year at our YRCM. There will be at least six members of the 100 Marathon Club United Kingdom in attendance as well.

Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
The Marathon is the only race offered on April 5, 2008. The Hard Core Runners Club offers many other races during the year from 5K’s to a half marathon .

At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
The time of the marathon takes advantage of spring weather which is the best time of the year to run a marathon in the Yakima Canyon. In 2007 it was 40 degrees fahrenheit at the start and peaked at 60 degrees fahrenheit for the day. There was a thin overcast sky, and the wind did not exceed 10 mph. This good running weather is typical.

Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
The festivities for the marathon extend from the day before to the day after the marathon. On Friday at the Packet Pickup/Expo there’s always a lot of activity and socializing. In the evening at the pasta dinner, the speaker for 2008 will be retired Major Rick Nealis, Race Director of the Marine Corps Marathon. He’ll also give guaranteed entry forms for his 30,000+ marathon of October 2008 to those who request them. After the marathon on April 5, there’s a 4:00 p.m. awards ceremony/meal (no cost to the entrants and a nominal cost to others). Quality awards are given to the overall top three winners and to the first five age division winners. After “19 and under,” the age divisions are in five year increments until “80 and over.” There are many drawing prizes. The bottles of wine provided by a winemaker on our committee are especially popular. The morning after the race a no-host breakfast buffet at a sponsoring hotel is held in a room set aside for runners. Newspapers with the marathon coverage are distributed, and the marathon is discussed as the people socialize.

The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Yakima before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
There are major restaurants, shopping malls, and tourist attractions in Yakima and nearby that are made known in the Visitors Guide that is placed in each packet. There’s a pioneer history museum here and an Indian Heritage Center at nearby Toppenish, a town that is famous for its historical murals. Many local wineries have tasting rooms and tours. In a day’s drive there are Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, the Cascade Mountains, Grand Coulee Dam, Columbia River Gorge and many other attractions to visit.

In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Yakima River Canyon Marathon ?
I have finished 419 marathons and ultras since 1981, and the Yakima River Canyon Marathon is the most scenic and best organized marathon that I have run.

There couldn’t be a better way to conclude this interview. Thank you very much Bob for your time and good luck for #420.

If you need more information :

• Official Web Site
• Yakima Canyon Marathon on 42k195.com
• Booking a hotel room in Yakim or check the hotel list on the official web site those sponsor hotels offer a rate reduction to marathoners who identify themselves.
• Some photos are also available on the site to give you a better view of how scenic the race is. Have a look.