Thursday, October 22, 2009

Odds + ends for my running friends

A few interesting nuggets to pass along on this gorgeous fall day:

One other Saturday race out in Gastonia that I forgot to mention: the CaroMont Candlelight 8K, which offers both a rare distance and a rare nighttime start -- the gun goes off at 8 p.m. The race, which starts and finishes at Gaston Memorial Hospital (2525 Court Drive), is a benefit to support HealthNet Gaston, a county-wide initiative that gives medical assistance to low-income and uninsured residents of Gaston County. Monetary prizes will be awarded. Registration is $20 through Thursday (click here to sign up). There's also a 4K and a kids fun run called the Pumpkin Chase. Race site is here, although it seemed to be having technical difficulties this afternoon.

The Thunder Road Marathon is recruiting volunteers for the big Dec. 12 event, which includes the 26.2-miler, a half marathon and a 5K. In addition to being involved with Charlotte's only marathon, you'll be supporting thousands of fellow runners and an event that benefits local non-profits; oh, and you'll get a cool long-sleeve volunteer T-shirt. Register as an individual, or grab some friends and make it a group effort. Remember: An event this big needs more than just the runners to be a success. Interested? Click here; the site lists the available volunteer positions and times help is needed. Questions? E-mail Jessica Douglas at jessica@runforyourlife.com.

Looking for some running buddies? The Charlotte Runners Meetup Group hooks up Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Charlotte Running Co. in Dilworth for the "Pick Your Distance Run." According to the store's newsletter, runners can choose from four, six or eight miles -- "basically there is an eight-mile route that runs by Charlotte Running Co. three times. You just jump off when you're ready." Wear reflective clothing or a running light, since it gets dark early now. An added perk: Participants get 15 percent off purchases made before the run. Charlotte Running Co. is at 1412 East Blvd., Suite. G. For more info, click here or call 704-377-8786.

Charlotte Running Club chairman Aaron Linz invites Charlotteans headed up to D.C. for Sunday's Marine Corps Marathon to join him and other CRC members at an informal/casual post-race celebration. Meeting place is the Cowboy Cafe, a bar and grill right across the Potomac River, at 4792 Lee Highway in Arlington (703-243-8010). Aaron describes it as "a tiny place with a lot of character. Fun place to have some drinks with friends and relax over some food. ... Please feel free to join us in celebration at 4 p.m. Leaves enough time for a nap after the marathon!"

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

The Ridge to Bridge Marathon is run this Saturday in Caldwell County between Morganton and Lenoir. It is closed and capped at 300 runners. It is run on country paven and unpaved roads and has a total descent of over 2900 feet. Many local runners will be participating. Maybe a race to look at for next year if you are looking for a smaller marathon with tremendous scenery and plenty of downhills. my-bmrc.org/2009Info.html#profile

Anonymous said...

little asian man why does the CO pay you to write about running???

Emily N. said...

Who's a jacka$$? Anon 9:56, that's who. Don't read it if you don't like it!

LARRY SEAVERS said...

Theoden,
What a crass comment by "Anonymous". Thanks for all the great things you have done to promote the sport and to make it safer and more fun. Thanks, as well, for your support of all of us.
Larry

Eimear said...

Another vote of thanks for Theoden here for his support of running and the running community in Charlotte; and a big poke-in-the-eye-with-a-virtual-sharp-stick for that cowardly, idiotic, un-funny, anonymous jerk.


Now if he'd asked (politely) why anyone gets paid to write about FOOTBALL ... :-)

Amy said...

I love your blog, Theoden. Keep up the good work!

Anonymous said...

Theoden, I read your blog every week. Just RFYL's races this summer averaged around 1,000 people and I bet 10 times that many pound the pavement and treadmills everyday without entering races so you certainly have an audience here in Charlotte. You've added to the running community in a very positive way through a truly unique gig covering a sport that many enjoy, but often overlook. I'd say most people would be envious of your position with the Observer... I know I am!! Sadly, some people let this turn to anger. That doesn't mean your work isn't appreciated.

Greg