5 things that make running a hometown race cool

On Saturday I'm running my first half marathon in two years (my last performance wasn't all that hot). My race is part of the Illinois Marathon, which will be a huge local event. All events (full marathon, half, 5K, and marathon relay) have closed and we are looking at a much bigger turnout than anybody expected. That's great for our town, for our economy, and for local running.

Although Champaign-Urbana has an active and lively running community, we've never had our very own marathon until now. That got me reflecting on all the cool things about running a big race that's local...

5. If I have to drop out I won't get lost;
4. Friends on the race committee have been giving me all the inside dirt on race planning for months;
3. Lotsa friends running and helping on the course means they'll shout and cheer for me;
2. Chance to see some of my students who are also running, and hopefully to kick their asses;
1. If I have to pee and the porta-potty lines are too long, I can always knock on friends' doors.

Comments

[Mindy]

All of the above = priceless.

Have a great run!

[dhawhee]

woo! have a great run. i wish i could be here to come watch, and i hope you pee at our house!

[KWT]

I guess dhawhee just answered my question of who you know who wouldn't be out on the race course themselves.