Forums >Running 101>First Race
You'll ruin your knees!
So I just registered for my first race ever...in January...the PF Chang Rock & Roll 1/2 marathon in Phoenix, AZ. Any tips from you experienced racers? Like: 1) Is it a faux pas to listen to your iPod while running in a race? I assume it would be for this run in particular, since they were kind enough to place a rock band every mile along the course! ;-) 2) Any special preparation for a race vs. a regular run? I usually throw salt over one shoulder and say a quick prayer to Osiris, the God of Shin Splints before I run. 3) If there's a Jack in the Box along the route, would it be okay if I stopped in for a quick breakfast burrito? Or is that frowned on by the "serious competitors"? 4) Is tripping allowed? 5) If I wear a ton of cologne, will I get a little more elbow room? 6) etc....?
""...the truth that someday, you will go for your last run. But not today—today you got to run." - Matt Crownover (after Western States)
E-mail: eric.fuller.mail@gmail.com -----------------------------
6. At the start of the race, particularly marathons, sprint the first 100 yards all out and yell out "I'm winning", with arms thrust up in the air!
Your very first race and its a half marathon? Why start there? Why not a full? In fact, there are plenty of 100 mile ultramarathons in the springtime ... maybe you should start there instead.
I *always* start out wearing my iPod - or arrange to have someone hand it to me at mile 15 or so, when some tunes might be nice. So if you wanna wear, wear it.
Try throwing pepper. Osiris likes that, too, especially with his eggs in the morning. Okay, the only "special preparation" may be taking some extra time in the bathroom. Don't wait until the last minute at a race that big. Line up at the porta-Johns early. Intestinal issues suddenly become a big deal. And trust me on this - bring some toilet paper. You'll be glad you did.
No, but it might help with the babes. And the babes are a significantly underrated factor in the big races. There you are, surrounded by literally thousands of fit young ladies, all dressed in running shorts, an easy topic to start conversations already set up for you (hint: it rhymes with running) ... if you're single, seize the day, my friend. Try wearing Aramis. But no Aqua Velva.
Self anointed title
5) No, but it might help with the babes. And the babes are a significantly underrated factor in the big races. There you are, surrounded by literally thousands of fit young ladies, all dressed in running shorts, an easy topic to start conversations already set up for you (hint: it rhymes with running) ... if you're single, seize the day, my friend. Try wearing Aramis. But no Aqua Velva. quote> Rhymes with running.... go on, put us out of our misery...