OK, so it's February, but why is Maine Running humming like its May? Everyday new Folks are coming in and investing in their health, fitness and well being. Running and walking is an inexpensive, accessible alternative to many things….and also a nice way to blow off steam.

Last weekend I went to a Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) coaching certification class…after having three other Maine Running coaches certified, I thought it might be time for the program director to go through the process.

Beach To Beacon on line registration will open Sunday, March 15, 12 noon, same time as the start of the Kerryman Pub 5K in Saco. B2B race director, David Weatherbie, pointed out that usually Kerryman is on the following Sunday and that even with the Race starting at 12 noon, folks should have time or can have friend sign up for them. This year's approximately 7,000 slots could sell out in 6 hours. Why? More folks are going to be anxious because last year caught them off guard. Here's hoping the process continues to evolve….

The Training Group season is just around the corner, our "Reach The Beacon" training group continues to fill up with almost 70 participants already registered. Looks like we'll need those four coaches? Orientation takes place on March 12 & 19 @ 6pm and cost is $120 for new and $70 for Alumni.. Additionally, our Ladies Night "Train For A Cure" Run/Walk Tuesday night group continues to fill. Maine Running also continues hosting two Sunday Morning Runs open to anyone. Early risers can meet at Freaky Bean's in South Portland at 7am and late risers can meet at Maine Running Company at 9am.

The Maine Track Club will have Maine Running Co. provide coaching services,again, this year. April 16 will kick off the season and we will start out with a clinic that evening " Running your first marathon…What To Expect."

Spring racing season is about to kick into high gear… The Irish Road Rover 5K will get things started on March 8, with packet pick up and final registration taking place at Maine Running Company on Saturday, March 7, 10am - 3pm. There will be no race day registration. The 11th Mary's Walk & Kerryman's Pub 5K in Saco, will start at 12 noon, Sunday March 15th. The traditional and 80th annual Boys & Girls Club Patriots Day 5 miler has moved to Sunday, April 19th, 12 noon. Packet pick up will be on Saturday, April 18, 10am - 5pm at Maine Running Company.

Speaking of races... Race participation continues to grow and road races are reporting registration holding or increasing across the board. Below were the top races in the U.S. in 2008

1 Atlanta Journal Constitution Peachtree 10K - 54,954
2 Dick's Sporting Goods Bolder BOULDER 10K - 48,431
3 Lilac Bloomsday Run 12K -43,640
4 Race for the Cure DC 5K - 41,038
5 ING New York Marathon - 38,096
6 Revlon Run for Women LA 5K - 33,120
7 Bank of America Chicago Marathon - 31,343
8 One America 500 Festival Half Marathon - 30,050
9 Cooper River Bridge Run 10K - 29,247
10 Revlon Run for Women NYC 5K - 26,000

Well, it's staying lighter later and Daylight Savings starts March 8, so shake off the cob webs and remember...Run Safe & Happy!

JR