106 days and counting….You might ask, what is happening in 106 days? The Pirates will officially be eliminated from playoff contention? Pittsburgh’s next mayoral election might be happening? (I can’t be the only one thinking, is there a reason why Pittsburgh has a new mayoral election every 100 days?) The 15th downtown Zambelli Fireworks display of 2010? Well guess what, none of those are it. Actually the city will host the annual Pittsburgh Marathon. Officially, race day is May 2nd, 2010 but your training needs to start today.
Is this a new race? Actually this is the 2nd race of the 2nd coming of the Pittsburgh Marathon. The very first Pittsburgh Marathon was held in 1985. It ran annually until 2003. And the second coming came in May of 2009 when Dick’s Sporting Goods stepped up to the plate and became the prime sponsor.
Where can I get started? Yes, we are still in the dead of winter but it is never too early to start training for a marathon. Most full marathon (that’s the full 26.2 miles) training programs start out about 18 weeks before the event. The half marathon training program last about 12 weeks. So once you’ve chosen the race for you (there is also a marathon relay, a kids marathon and the Pittsburgh Team Challenge), I suggest going to www.pittsburghmarathon.com to officially register and pay your entry fee. They also offer classes and education sessions for those interested in marathon running.
Where’s the finish line? This race will take you through many of Pittsburgh’s varying neighborhoods. It starts and finishes at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The race also will take its’ participants over each of the three rivers via the North Shore and the Southside. Spectators also will line much of the 26.2 mile course so if you think you aren’t ready for the challenge, don’t hesitate to grab a spot on the route and cheer on your neighbors.
Anything else? Race weekend will also feature a Health and Fitness Expo. It will run from Friday through Sunday at the Convention Center. It will feature exhibitors representing products and services that relate to the mind, body and soul. And finally, while the grey skies and snow engulf Pittsburgh for the next couple of months, it is still possible to enjoy downtown’s paths and trails. Get out and enjoy and spring will be here before you know it!
Last year I cheered on the runners near the finish line at the Convention Center. It was exciting to say the least watching these truly amazing athletes cross the finish line. This year, I’d like to train for the half marathon. Are there any downtown running groups I could join?