All the quality training you've done doesn't matter if you don't execute on race day, but you can't properly execute if you've picked the wrong race.
|
|
|
Terrain - Downhill courses are fast, but they can crush the quads. Flat courses seem like a good pick too, but sometimes your muscles need variety. Hilly courses are often avoided, but if you're a good hill runner and the uphills aren't too steep and the downhills are runnable, then maybe such a course is not a bad choice. As for surfaces, on one extreme, concrete will pound you to pieces, but on the other hand, soft surfaces may absorb too much power and create poor traction. An asphalt marathon is normally the best choice.
|
Crowds - I hate 'em at Six Flags, at the movies, on the freeway, and yes on race day too. If the hype and people of big race marathoning pumps you up, by all means run those type races. Personally I prefer the smaller ones and with that, accept the fact that the spectator base will be less and that I'll have fewer possible running partners that day. I'm OK with both because it means I'll be able to focus more directly on my competition. Remember, as a sub three hour marathoner you are in award contention these days on any race that's not paying money.
|
Time of Year - Living in Atlanta means we have all four seasons and though the summers can be hot, they're manageable. We also don't lose much outside training due to wintry weather. This means spring marathons fit nicely in our schedules, but they may not for you. Most organizers strive to pick the best time of year in their particular region, but there are exceptions. Evaluate your training conditions then pick a race that allows for three or four months of optimal train time leading up to the race.
|
|