With Fall comes the busiest time of the racing season. This past weekend, we saw several running events push the 1,000 participant level. The Maine Coast 1/2 Marathon featured 600+ runners. The popular Portland Trails 10K, had over 1,000 entrys and almost 800 participants. We also had the MDI 1/2 marathon and Komen Race For The Cure in Bangor. In coming weeks we have several multiple race event weekends coming up! The question is are we over "evented"?

Fall Marathon season is always full of opportunities. We have Maine Marathon & 1/2 Marathon on October 5, ING Hartford Marathon and 1/2 Marathon on October 11, Hampton, NH 1/2 Marathon on October 26 & The Manchester Marathon & 1/2 Marathon on Nov 1. This is not to mention, New York, Chicago, Philly, Marine Corp, etc..... How many events do we need? Talking to Mark Grandonico, we both agree that we need to let the Market dictate what events survive. The simple fact is that if runner's have a great experience and tell other's, event's will continue to grow. Those that are unorganized or don't create a great experience, will fall by the wayside.

In this economy, sponsorship money is getting tighter as well. Are sponsors getting a ROI on their investment? Events for our business are utilized for two things, brand building within a market served and to create sales. The event should drive consumers to your brand or location and then your product should be showcased or serviced. The good news is that running participation continues to grow at roughly 3-5% a year and the running consumer is a very desirable demographic for companies to pursue.

In a nutshell, events will continue to be an intregal part of the running industry and we will continue to see events and sponsors come and go. The events that provide a unique experience for the runner and a unigue value for the sponsors will continue to thrive.

Have a good fall and remember.....Run Happy!