Don’t look now, but it’s August already. For us at A Running Experience Club, that means the Long Beach International City Bank Marathon (LBICBM), ½ Marathon and its other related events is barely over 2 months away; and we are in full swing with our preparation. In case anyone is not aware, AREC is the official Long Beach training club for the LBICBM. It is what we gear up for every year and we have a responsibility to fulfill. There is much more to this race than just race day.
First, we have promised to provide assistance in putting on this event… a.k.a. volunteers. If you are participating in one of the events on Sunday October 12th, you can still contribute your time and effort. As Todd Byers has often mentioned at the Wednesday evening runs, this can come in a myriad of forms; help is needed with everything from stuffing goody bags ahead of time, to setting up cones and barriers to taking care of the elite athletes. Let any board member know of your desire to contribute some time and we will put you in contact with the appropriate people. Most of us have run many races, but frequently take for granted what makes them fly. So give back to your chosen sport, because no race gun goes off without volunteers.
Second, we must provide an organized training program to anyone interested in completing the full or half marathon. Currently we offer a 5-mile route on Wednesday evenings and two 7-mile courses on Sunday mornings, all of which can be shortened or lengthened as desired. Due to the condensed time frame this year, we are proposing an abbreviated schedule with the intention of a full season of training next year. Between now and race day, we will incorporate longer runs into the already established Sunday morning routine. Here is what we are proudly capable of offering:
Just let us know where you are at and what you require to ensure a positive race-day experience!
We would like to initiate the program with an official training race this Saturday August 9, 2003 at the Huntington Beach Distance Derby. The 10-mile race begins early at 7:00am on the boardwalk by the pier, while the 5-miler lets you sleep in until the 8:30am start time. If you are fast enough, interested in the miles and a bit of a masochist, you could actually run them both. So put on you’re AREC tee or tank and come support the training program at this kick-off event.
And remember, we will also have our annual AREC carbo-load pasta party on Friday October 10th. If you would like to volunteer your home or apartment clubhouse as the host location, and/or can provide a giveaway prize for the party, please let a board member know immediately! I look forward to continuing the relationship formed with everyone involved with the club and thank you all for your commitment and support. Wanna go for a run?