A Message from Bill Rodgers

I wanted to let your runners know how important it is to run your 1st marathon with the support of a race organization like CRIM FOUNDATION.

I know because I ran in the 1st CRIM 10 MILE back in 1977, and have returned many years to that well run race.

When you take on the Marathon as your Challenge, that support counts even more!

I also recommend a smaller event to run your best race in for your initial marathons. I did this at the Bay State Marathon in 1973. There is a learning curve to marathoning and the easier it is to run in an event, the better you are likely to do.

Cool weather, a flat course, and support along the way from volunteers and family are huge factors. Any professional marathoner will tell you a top goal in training...and running the marathon...are reduced risk!

You will earn your medal...on your own terms...in your hometown event. Those are the races that count most!

See you in Michigan in the Spring; I look forward to giving you your medal!

Best wishes,

Bill Rodgers

February 2012 - message from Billl Rodgers

Always be flexible with your training; if you are under the weather, extremely tired, or the weather is not good, back off and wait. All professional marathoners will tell you patience is key. That way, if you feel good and the weather is good, you run a bit farther or harder. You will get more out of your time & effort when you can run under better conditions. Look for the days with little or no snow on the ground for safer footing. or run on a treadmill if possible. X training is very valuable; on bad weather days, they are a solid substitute for a run. Swimming and yoga are great for recovery efforts!

Don’t forget to celebrate your effort! You are aiming high; that deserves reward!

Try different distances as well, and experiment with your pace some.

See you in May!

Bill

message from March 12, 2012

Hello marathon & half marathon participants!

One idea for the Dow Weekend of Races - Qualifier Marathon (sponsored by Dow Corning & Hemlock Semiconductor Group) runners in terms of aiming for that May race date is to do a few races as preparation in these 2 months. One in March, one in April. For half marathoners (sponsored by Health Plus) an 8k or 10k would be a fine race to build your race fitness with, and for the 2nd race; mayube a15k or 10 mile race .The idea is to gradually increase the distance/effort..and to celebrate your progress as well. Races are terrific mood boosters, just be sure to pick a pace thats within reach for both races.

As you succeed at each, you have taken significant steps in achieving your final goal, the Dow Weekend of Races - Qualifier Marathon (sponsored by Dow Corning & Hemlock Semiconductor Group) or Half Marathon (sponsored by Health Plus).

I like to celebreate my long runs as well, why not go out to dinner to thank yourself for your hard effort?

Celebrating with family and friends is Key to your success. You 'll want to be sure of the shoes and gear/clothing that works best for you as well. If you have any questions; now is a good time to anwser them. Your local specialty shoe retailer (Runner's Performance Wear) is a source of information on races/products such as gels and sports drinks you may want to try over the next few months on training runs.

Don't forget; this sport is one of the Ultimatre Good health sports; so be sure to experiment with running techniques like the Galloway method; where you Run/walk your way. Try this over the next few months.

Also,if you can run over parts of the course - http://www.thequalifier.org/ click "events" and choose either marathon or half marathon course, you will recall them race day..and the race will feel a bit easier.

I hope your running is going steady, see you in May!

Bill

Message from March 14, 2012

Dear Runners,

As you come into the final weeks of your training, you know that the worst of winter is behind you and the sun will again be shining on your training. Stay focused on your goals...you really only have about 5 weeks of real training before you start to taper a little. Get excited that you survived (ok, it was a ridiculously mild winter) the winter and you're in the home stretch of your training. Pay attention to your diet, little aches and pains. The key now is to not do anything silly to blow your weeks of hard work. Think of this as you've just crested heartbreak hill and you're feeling good, but you still have a little work to do before you hit the tape! As I always yell to the kids I coach..."stay on it....concentrate!"

Bill & Greg