Running

Records for Running: Maurice Green, The Runner that Could!

Stephanie Modkins — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:00:19 GMT

Let's face it. We all have a friend who's always about to do something big. You know who this person is. It's the person who's going to find a way to get into the Guinness Book of Records but doesn't have any real talent. It's the person who's going to climb Mount Everest one day but can't make it around the block. It's the person who's going to buy a mansion, but is still living in his, or her, mother's basement. Now, none of these things are impossible, but based on your friend's current situation, they just seem impossible for him. Yet, every once in a while, this person actually does what he says. This is what happened with runner Maurice Greene.

For the longest time, Maurice Greene said he'd be the fastest man in the world. But no one really believed him. They just thought he was another athletic pretty boy, talking about something he'd never accomplish. Yes, he was a runner but not "that kind" of runner. However, in the mid-90s, Greene started proving everyone wrong.

It started with him beating Carl Lewis at the Texas Relays. Racing officials stated it was wind-aided, but it still showed his emerging ability. Unfortunately, in 1996, fate stepped in, and Maurice Greene hurt his hamstring. This led to a disappointing show at the Olympic Trials. However, it also caused Greene to move to California and choose a new coach, John Smith. It was this new merger that would lead Maurice Greene to one of his greatest victories. In the 1997 World Track and Field Championships, he beat Olympic Champion Donovan Bailey in the 100-meter race and earned the title as The World's Fastest Man. Of course, this event shut up a lot of Maurice Greene's critics. He no longer was the guy about to do something big. He'd done it!

Maurice Greene's story serves as a lesson for all of us. The next time your friend, the one about to do big things, talks about his next venture, don't dismiss it. Understand that he's just dreaming and one day might make the dream come true.

Best Marathons: Kilauea Volcano Run!

Stephanie Modkins — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:29:21 GMT

Do you ever dream of taking a run on the wild side? Maybe in a remote wilderness, over cool lava rocks, near an active volcano. OK. Probably if you dreamed about this type of a run, it was a nightmare. However, in real life, there is such a run. Hundreds of people flock to it every year. It is called the Kilauea Volcano Marathon.

The Kilauea Volcano Marathon is held in Hawaii, normally in the summer months. This 26.2 mile marathon is not for the faint of heart. It is very challenging because of the location and terrain. The weather is hot and humid. The trail of the marathon is elevated and includes a field of lava rocks that are slippery. Runners often wear gloves to avoid cutting their hands from falls. (These runners just suck up the cuts and bruises on the other parts of their bodies.) There are no expos, mile markers or spectators. The only frill attached to this run is at the end when refreshments that are akin to local produce are given out along with artisan, hand-made awards. It's a tough race, but one that any seasoned runner should take on at least once.

Seasoned runners should take on the Kilauea Volcano Marathon for its scenic beauty and overall challenge. The area is remote and lovely to look at even though it's hard to run. Also, it will be a test of endurance and a chance to buff one's body in an unforgettable way. Then, after the race is over, runners can relax and enjoy the rest of Hawaii. It makes for a great get-a-way and photo-op.

Are you starting to see why the Kilauea Volcano Marathon might be a good marathon to run after all? For more information, visit their Web site at www.volcanoartcenter.org. It will tell you about race and other local happenings in the area.

Most Popular Distance Run: Journey to the Planet Vulcan

Fabletoo — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:16:32 GMT

You've gotta love a race that's called the Vulcan Run. Even if you're not a Star Trek fan, you must admit, it's kinda cool to be running in a race called the Vulcan Run. And if you are a Star Trek fan, well, even better. Put on your Nikes, power up your Vulcan strength, attach your Spock ears, and you're ready to run the 2008 Vulcan Run.

The Vulcan Run is actually a 10K race that's held in Birmingham, Alabama every November. It's been ongoing since 1975, when it was organized to celebrate the Bicentennial. Nowadays, it's mostly won by Kenyan runners every year but, even if you're not up to their league (not really able to muster much of that Vulcan power!), it's still fun to run in a race with so many top class runners.

This year's Vulcan Run will be on November 1st. In 2006, Runner's World listed it as one of their top six favorite races and, with more than 2,000 runners expected to enter, it's still small enough to not feel lost in the crowd but big enough to have a lot of excitement and challenge.

An additional added bonus to running this race is, if you're in the Birmingham area, the Birmingham Track Club organizes a 'Couch to 10K in 10 weeks' program for beginning runners. For $49, you get individual coaching, information about diet, exercise, training and clothing, and 3 or 4 group runs every week. You'll learn some great tips, meet some fellow runners, and end up in great shape for the 10k race.

The Vulcan Run also has a 1 mile Fun Run, so if you have any kiddies or out of shape relatives or friends, they can still join you on the day with no excuses.

The race starts at 8am on November 1st. You can register at the Trak Shack (see how, if you squint, it looks a bit like 'Star Trek'?) in Homewood, Alabama or online at http://www.active.com. So, sign up for the Vulcan Run. It could be your chance to boldly go where many men have gone before (come on, I had to say it, right?)

FOR MORE INFORMATION: http://vulcanrun.com

Best Marathons: Pikes Peak!

Stephanie Modkins — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:38:03 GMT

The Pikes Peak Marathon is unique and, as a result, only right for a few runners. Therefore, In order to see if you are one of the special runners who can do this marathon, you must first take a quick questionnaire. Here are the questions. Answer the questions by circling yes or no.

(Yes/No) 1. Do you hate air?
(Yes/No) 2. Are you afraid to run on flat ground?
(Yes/No) 3. Can you walk like a zombie?
(Yes/No) 4. Does the idea of "falling out" seem okay to you?
(Yes/No) 5. Do you have a secret need to punish yourself?

If you answered yes to all of these questions, you are ready to run the Pikes Peak Marathon. This challenging marathon takes runners up Pikes Peak Ascent in Manitou Springs, Colorado. It starts at 6,300 feet and ends at 14,115 feet. The average grade for a "path" is 11 percent. In other words, this marathon is more like a hike. So you might want to find a pair of running shoes that act more like hiking boots in order to take on this marathon.

The Pikes Peak Marathon is so tough that the Web site gives warnings about "exerting too much energy" and the "lack of air" to potential runners. They basically want you to know that this is not a fun run that will exhilarate you. It actually will tire you out. Yet, despite all of this, you will get something from this race you can't get from many other marathons. Can you guess what it is? BRAGGING RIGHTS!

If you run the Pikes Peak Marathon, you can brag for years - even if you come in last place. It's just one of those marathons that most people won't do because it's scary. It requires more training than the average marathon and also more stamina. So keep this in mind as you decide if it is for you. Runners who tackle Pikes Peak Marathon are one-of-a-kind.

If you want more information on Pikes Peak Marathon, go their Web site. Enter at your own risk. Also, remember, do the race and BRAG, at your own pace.

Records for Running: Wilson Kipketer's 800 Meter Race

Stephanie Modkins — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:00:49 GMT

Does your school have a legacy? This question is one that crosses my mind as I hear about the antics of students across the world. For instance, at Redland High School, groups of untamed teens decided to dress up in banana and gorilla suits and run around town. It was an incident that was written up in the local paper and garnered a few laughs. It also increased the rental of the cult movie "Planet of the Apes."

Unlike the Redland High School, some schools have a more serious legacy. One such school is St. Patrick's Catholic High School in Iten, Kenya. St. Patrick's Catholic High School is special. Why? This school has a history of creating world-renown runners. And one of them was Kenyan Wilson Kipketer.

Wilson Kipketer was born in 1972 to the Kalenjin tribe. His early years were unremarkable until he met Olympic champion Kip Keino. Kip quickly recognized Wilson's athletic ability and referred him to the one place that he knew would hone his talent, St. Patrick's High School.

Kipketer followed his Olympic predecessor's advice and years later, his life took a turn. He began winning World Championships in running and even went to the Olympics a couple of times. His claim to fame was the 800 meter race. This race helped him win three gold medals in World Championships and a silver medal and bronze medal in the Olympics. Until this day, his record of running the 800m (1:41.11) has not been beaten. Today, Wilson Kipketer is retired.

So, are you ready to throw on a uniform and lace up a pair of running shoes? You might have to take a time machine into the past, but at least you know exactly where to go. When you land in Kenya, you too can train to be an Olympic hopeful. Just by attending this high school, you'll increase your chances exponentially.

Best Distance Runs: Little Run on the Prairie

Fabletoo — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 13:46:04 GMT

Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, is probably nowhere you've ever heard of. Most people haven't. Sleepy Eye isn't known for many things, but it is known for the Corn Day 10K and 5K runs. Every year in August, Sleepy Eye citizens hold Corn Day celebrations, and the Corn Day Run is one of them.

When I think of the Corn Day Run, I have pictures in my head of massive corns on the cobs wearing bright red running shoes (just like these), racing through the streets of Sleepy Eye. Behind them are little men wearing chef's hats and carrying huge pairs of tongs, desperate to grab hold of and boil the poor corn.

In reality, the Sleepy Eye Corn Day Run is a little less scary than that. It's a great day for the family especially as, with a 10K and a 5K run and a 5K walk, any family member in any kind of shape can join in. It's also more than just a run as there are all kinds of stuff going on after the race, including mini golf, a soccer shoot out, volleyball games, crazy bowling, a putting contest and free, buttered corn. There's also the annual Corn Day Parade with high school bands, floats, animals and loads of other entrants.

The Sleepy Eye Corn Day Run is cheap to enter too, costing only $12 before August 8 and $17 after that. You also get a free t-shirt if you register before August 8, so for twelve bucks, it's a great deal. It's a small race too. As of the middle of June, only 38 people had registered for the race so, if you enter, you've got an amazing chance of winning. Winners in both the men's and the women's categories get plaques, and if you complete the race, you get a medal. With corn on it.

So if you want a really small 10K or 5K run in a place that's 'real purdie,' (the race runs around Sleepy Eye Lake) enter the Corn Day Run. Sleepy Eye was also one of the trading posts on the TV series "Little House on the Prairie" so, when you get there, you might be surprised to discover you've been there before.

Best Marathons: Challenge a Single Man to a Race!

Stephanie Modkins — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 13:11:12 GMT

Calling all single women! Are you looking for a place to vacation where you can find a hunk man who's well paid, physically fit and family oriented? Do you want your vacation to be centered on a special event? Should it be something fun for you and all of your desperate gal pals, as well as inexpensive? Well, here's the place for you: Anchorage, Alaska.

Anchorage, Alaska is known for its disproportionate ratio of single men to single women. No one is totally sure why. It's the cold weather and wild animals. However, for some reason, women aren't attracted to the area. Yet, the Alaskans make-up for this situation by creating events that attracts a lot of people. One of them is the Mayor's Marathon race.

The Mayor's Marathon race is held each summer in Anchorage. It's a popular race because the path isn't too challenging. Also, this race is one that qualifies runners for the world-famous Boston Marathon. The Mayor's Marathon is also known for giving out great prizes as well as tours. Yes. That's right ladies. So don't forget to pack a pair of Uggs to replace your Nikes. This marathon understands the needs of its participants. Runners can sign up to tour the local area, which will acquaint them with locals. It's a great way to find Mr. Right now.

OK, even if you sign up to participate in this race and don't meet anyone, it will still make for a great vacation. The Mayor's Marathon offers participants a chance to run a fun and relatively easy marathon with all of the perks of a bigger and more difficult one. Plus, it's held in an area famous for its natural beauty and clean air. What more could you want?

If this sounds like a marathon for you, visit their Web site. Check out the site and find out more reasons why you'll want to run this race.

Records for Running: Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Stephanie Modkins — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 19:41:01 GMT

I'm a Pisces. OK. There, I admitted it. I hate to tell anyone that I'm this sign because so many contradicting qualities are attached to it. Often, I hear how sweet, spiritual and loving my sign is (usually from other Pisces.) But then, I read astrological books, and they state people born under my sign are prone to be drug addicts, prostitutes and any human entity given to excess. It's a confusing, messy situation that contributes to my desire to skip over certain sections of the newspaper and head straight for the comics. For this reason, I am always happy to read about another Pisces who is living a decent life, like retired, professional athlete Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee was born on March 3. She is popular for her current record in the heptathlon and prior records in the long jump. Although she ran during a period of time in which track and field athletes were pumping their bodies with performance enhancing drugs, she always steered away from them. Jackie was a strong proponent for staying drug free and doing other things to build up one's athleticism. This fact has maintained her reputation as a legitimate athlete through the years.

The other thing I like about Jackie Joyner-Kersee is that she used her fame to help others. Yes, she hooked up with Nike and enjoyed the publicity that went with that partnership. However, in the meanwhile, she started a few foundations to help others. In 1988, she started the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation in order to help struggling youth, adults and families. Later, she followed it up with a combined effort to start Athletes for Hope. Both of these organizations touch the lives of hundreds of people. And why? Because one lady, a Pisces, decided to turn her dream into something that expands outside of her personal realm. It's enough to make another Pisces, me, proud. Jackie is a great example of how an athlete can use their fame for good, and what a Pisces can do in her life.

Popular Distance Runs: Philly!

Fabletoo — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:10:59 GMT

If you're like me, love running and music pretty much equally, then the ING Philadelphia Distance Run will really rock your running shoes (and speaking of which, I'm coveting these rocking running shoes for race day). The ING Philadelphia Distance Run will be on September 21st this year, and at every mile of the half marathon course there'll be a local Philadelphia band just groovin' away to put you in the mood for winning. Bands this year include The Art of Self Defense, Fooling April, The Dogz and Last Perfect Thing. With sounds from blues to funk, from rock and roll to acoustics, there really is a music mood for everyone. There's even something for the kids as The Dogz are a group of 13 and 14 year olds who got together to celebrate the run and play some tunes - can't beat that, eh?

The race itself too is a doozy. It's pretty much the best half marathon race in the US, and because it runs through historic parts of Philadelphia, it's also a pretty race to run. It starts near the Philadelphia Museum of Art, runs past City Hall and Independence Hall, up Benjamin Franklin Parkway and through Fairmount Park and along the river. Runnning this race, you'll feel like you're in a movie too - opening credits, the mist lifts off the water, and coming through the haze towards the camera, looking like a winner is..........you. The support from the community is awesome too, as tons of folks turn out to cheer you on.

The ING Philadelphia Distance Run starts this year at 7:45am on race day. There'll be individual medals given in all divisions, and also team medals as a lot of runners run in teams. There's a really cool children's runs too. Starting at 9:45 am, there's a 1 mile race, a half mile and a quarter mile, from kids ages 3 to 12 years old. It's worth coming just to see the kiddies' race. There's nothing cooler than a 3 year old being egged on by Mom and Dad.

This year is the first year ING is the main sponsor of the Philadelphia Distance Run and, as it's my favorite bank, I'm happy they're giving their support to the race. ING also runs a program called Run for Something Better, which encourages school kids all over the US to run and get fit, so they're definitely serious about their running. This year is the 31st year of the race and over 15,000 people are expected to sign up for it. Sign up deadline is September 14th and starts at $55 per person, up to $65 for later registrants.

So, think about it. Rock and roll, elite runners, great food at the end of the course, a movie-like atmosphere, historical buildings and the history of the nation breathing down your neck. It's not known as one of the countries most prestitious distance races for nothing ya know.

Who Wants to Go to the Chilly Willie Marathon?

Stephanie Modkins — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:36:41 GMT

Are you up for a challenging run? Try running the North Pole Marathon. It is the coolest marathon in America and one that has an upcoming race in April.

Last winter, I drove up an icy hill after a heavy snowstorm to get a roll of toilet paper. It was a scary drive, but worth it. After getting to the store, I was happy to pick up my desired item and get a few other items to comfort me through the upcoming stormy days. The whole incident made me realize one thing - if you really want something, you'll go for it even in harsh conditions. This mentality is one that I believe the originators of the North Pole Marathon must have adopted; they created a race in harsh conditions because they really wanted it. Now, lots of other people do too.

The North Pole Marathon is a certified 26.2 race that is ran entirely on water (frozen water). Runners are eligible to join the North Pole Marathon Grand Slam Club, which requires participants to finish a marathon on each of the seven continents. In addition, people who participate in this race are officially stomping on famous grounds; the North Pole Marathon was actually listed in the Guinness book of World Records for being the Northernmost Marathon on earth. It is just one of the many attractions to this race although the biggest one is the challenge.

The North Pole Marathon is a once in a lifetime challenge. It is a run good for people who want to stretch themselves physically and emotionally. After all, it isn't every day that you bear the bitter cold for a run. Most individuals only face arctic conditions in emergency situations - like a need for a roll of toilet paper. Yet, just as in an emergency situation, this marathon will give you a sense of satisfaction after you get through it. You will understand that it was a run you had to do.

For more details about the North Pole Marathon, go to their site at www.npmarathon.com. You will be able to get vital information on it. Also, you will find out more reasons why you really need to join this run. You still have time. The next marathon is on April 2009.

Best Distance Runs: One for the Soldiers

Fabletoo — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:49:46 GMT

The Buffalo Alley 10K Run is challenging yet fun.

The Buffalo Alley 10K Run is held almost every year at Camp Pendleton in California. It's a cross-country 10 kilometer run and, this year, will be held on Nov. 1, 2008. It begins at Camp Horno then goes up into the hills of Camp Pendleton where, while running, you can also enjoy the beautiful views. The great thing about this course is it's a hilly course and climbs more than 500 feet uphill, giving you a great workout as well as a great run. The race also honors wounded and fallen soldiers and some military wives even run in the race to honor their husbands who have been killed.

The race begins at 8:30 a.m. and has a two hour completion time limit. The race has two divisions - civilian and military - but is open to anyone age 15 years or older. Prizes are given to the top three finishers overall, then to the top three in each category. The race used to go by the name of Horno Ridge Run but was changed because the organizers wanted to give attention to the buffalo that still roam the ranges near Camp Pendleton.

The Buffalo Alley 10K Run is also part of the Hard Corps Race Series, a series of nine very challenging races. The top 10 in each division (civilian male, civilian female, military male, and military female) in each race are given points and the ones with the highest overall points after nine races are the grand winners. The Buffalo Alley 10K is the last race in the whole series, making it the most exciting one.

The Buffalo Alley 10K Run is not only a challenging race, it's also a wonderful way to support the US military. Military personnel stationed at Camp Pendleton can enter the race for free, while other military personnel stationed elsewhere pay a $30 admission fee. Civilians pay a $35 admission fee before October 19 and $40 after.

If you're looking for a challenging, fun race, with well-trained competitors and one that is held in an area with beautiful scenery, look no further. The Buffalo Alley 10K is definitely for you.

Records for Running: Florence Griffith Joyner

Stephanie Modkins — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:35:03 GMT

Do you ever wonder who brought all the "glam" to the world of female athletes? Well, there are a few chicks in history who changed the game and one of the most well-known one is Florence Griffith Joyner. She was fashion forward when it wasn't even popular.

TV shows like SNL (Saturday Night Live) have traditionally made fun of the female athlete. Often played by a man, she was hairy, muscular and unattractive. Admittedly, I used to laugh at these caricatures. They were funny and played by comediennes that I love. Yet, through time, I had to eat those laughs because the image of the female athlete began to evolve.

Through the years, the look of the female athlete began to evolve and today, many are now considered to be fashion icons. Yet, these new female athletes didn't get to where they are on their own. They owe a lot to the female athletes of the past - the ones who weren't afraid to show a different face - an extremely attractive one. Who was one of the biggest influences? Track and field star Florence Griffith Joyner.

Florence Griffith Joyner was a runner who broke the World Record for the 100 meter in 1987. Her time was 10.49 seconds. She continued on for a majority of her life to be a star athlete, but one of the things that women like myself (and a lot of men) loved about her was her look. Florence Griffith Joyner was a beauty and had a style all of her own.

Florence Griffith Joyner's look was unique in her day for a female athlete. Her hair was thick and flowing down her back. Her make-up was noticeable (red lipstick, dark eyeliner and red blush). And her nails - well - let's just say they were multi-colored and longer than the average gals. Florence Griffith Joyner looked more like a Hollywood actress than a runner. She was totally glam in a field that was at times totally ho-hum. Yet, this gal could run.

Florence's ability to run and look beautiful at the same time is what truly influenced female athletes. She didn't have to buy into a stereotype in order to be taken seriously nor seriously compete. She was an individual and brought a lot of style to her career field of choice.

Sadly, Florence Griffith Joyner's life was cut short. And, in 1998 she passed on, but not without leaving a legacy of beauty that is mimicked today by well-known female athletes like Serena Williams. Her willingness to be glamorous allowed people like Serena Williams to follow in her footsteps with less criticism.

So now when I see those old SNL skits with manly female athletes, I understand that they are just stereotypes. Of course, I still laugh. I laugh hard . . . But for the right reason.

Running Tips: Treadmill's Can Be a Relief

Fabletoo — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:39:30 GMT

Treadmill running can be a nice change from outside heat and humidity.

One of the best things I bought last year was a treadmill. I'm an avid runner, but live in one of the world's hottest cities and, sometimes, I just don't feel like running outside. With heat, humidity and pollution that'll kill you, there are some days even I can't muster up enough energy to leave the comfort of my air conditioned apartment. That's where the treadmill comes in.

On days where the temperature is over 100 degrees and the humidity is unbearable, I'll occasionally run on the treadmill. It allows me to do an hour of hard running but be in a cool temperature. My treadmill is set up in the bedroom and is right in front of the TV. So I pop in a DVD, turn up the volume and I'm off. An hour whizzes by and I hop off energized and refreshed. If you're obsessed with running like I am, a treadmill can be the way to go.

I bought a low-end treadmill because I don't use it every day. I only paid $525 for it, but it has a heart monitor, good speed controls and folds up when I'm finished. It doesn't have incline controls or any of the fancy interval training controls but, because I only want it for an occasional run, it wasn't worth paying an extra $500 for these features. If you do want something fancier, they come with all the bells and whistles; workout programs, decline as well as incline controls, chest sensors, fans to keep you cool and a whole lot of other stuff.

What I love about the treadmill is the freedom it gives me. I don't have to worry about avoiding pedestrians or cars, don't have to be on the lookout for obstacles I might fall over, and I can watch TV or wear headphones without fear of injury or death. I wouldn't recommend a treadmill for running every day. I do find a treadmill harder on my feet than running outside. But, for the occasional run in comfort, they're a great thing to buy. Just make sure, if you buy one, you use it responsibly and don't overuse it, because that's when the injuries could start. A run on a treadmill four or five times a month though gives me a break from my regular routine and often leaves me raring to get back outside the following day, less annoyed with the heat and humidity. For only $525, it's the best money I ever spent.

Distance Runs: Bangkok

Fabletoo — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 13:22:40 GMT

The Bangkok Marathon is one of the most popular distance runs in Asia.

I currently live in Bangkok, Thailand and am also a serious runner. Distance runs (10ks and 5ks) are not as easy to find in Thailand as they are in the US, which is why everyone loves the Standard Chartered Bank Bangkok Marathon so much.

The Bangkok Marathon is held every year in November. In 2008, it will take place on November 23rd. The Bangkok Marathon itself begins at 2 am for those runners who finish in 5-7 hours, as the heat is so intense in Bangkok that many of us fell it's better to run while it's still dark. Even at 2 am, the temperatures can easily top 80 degrees and increase exponentially. So, if you decide to run in it, make sure you are hydrated properly. The second marathon start time is at 3:20 am for those runners who can finish in under 5 hours. All races start and finish in front of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaow, which is one of the most spectacular pieces of architecture in the world.

The marathon also has a quarter marathon (10.55k) and a 5k run, which are very popular with Thai residents and foreigners alike. The quarter marathon begins at 6:45 am, with the 5K (also known as the Fun Run) starting thirty minutes later at 7:15am. These runs are also really fun as the course loops around the Bangkok historic district and through several different ethnic communities, and there are beautiful historical Thai buildings and temples to see. Thais are also very interested in the marathon and the fun run and very proud of their country, so the streets will be packed with spectators cheering you on.

The prizes in the Bangkok Marathon are also very nice. In male and female overall categories, the winner will receive an award of 300,000 baht (currently around $9,375). Second to tenth place winners in the male and female categories will also receive cash awards as well as medals and certificates. In the 10.55k and the 5K, any runner that completes the course under a certain period of time will also get a medal and a certificate. The marathon itself is usually dominated by runners from Kenya, but it would be nice to see a Thai win it this year.

You can register for the Standard Chartered Bangkok Marathon online at http://www.bkkmarathon.com. Fees vary from around $5 for Thai residents (includes Westerners who live in Thailand), to $65 for registrations by non-Thai residents. There is no registration allowed on the day of the marathon so, if you want to run in it, make sure you register by the deadline of November 22nd. The Bangkok Marathon really is a fabulous thing to see though so, whether you run it, do the 10K or the 5K or just go out to watch, you'll still have a really fun time.

Bring Those Running Shoes for Vacation!

Fabletoo — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:25:17 GMT

Running on vacation can really spice up your routine.

Taking a vacation is something everyone looks forward to. You get to relax, sleep in, see new places, eat new food and talk to new people. One thing many people forget about vacations though is that they're also a great opportunity to run somewhere new. While everyone else is sleeping in, nursing hangovers or gorging themselves at the hotel breakfast bar, you can be out jogging on the beach or running along the cliffs. So, pack your running gear, follow these suggestions and you too can have a fun, relaxing holiday with some exercise thrown in.

One of the great things about vacations is that you can get away from your normal running routine and try something different. Instead of running a set distance on a known route, like you do every day, strike out for the unknown. Leave the front door of your hotel, turn right or left and just run without knowing or worrying where you're running to. Run for as long as you want - this time, you don't have to think about needing to turn around so you can get to work on time. Check out the new scenery. Say hello to strangers. If you normally live in a city, enjoy the fresh air of the countryside or the beach. Run for the sheer joy of it.

Running on vacation is also a fun way to see a new place. Many tourist attractions can be a pain in the rear to get to, especially when you have to find parking when you get there. Getting there on foot is often easy. You can also go from one tourist attraction to another and see even more cool stuff in between the two places. It sure beats sitting in a car on vacation where, half the time, you're missing interesting things because you're too busy trying to figure out how to get to the next place.

Many popular tourist destinations also have their own marathons, 10k races or fun runs. Plan a vacation to coincide with the city's marathon or run. You can spend one of your vacation days taking part in a road race, then the rest of your vacation jogging around town, enjoying the sights.

So, next time you go on vacation, pack your shoes and gear and enjoy running in a new environment. You'll have a great vacation and get back home feeling refreshed and ready to get back into some serious running.