Hello! Apologies for being MIA-work has been a bit busy the past couple of weeks. A month ago I decided to sign up for the “14 in 2014” challenge hosted by Jill Conyers and Marathon Mom. I am committed to running 14 races in 2014.
You can commit to running 14 races at a specific distance (14 x 5Ks, 14 x 10Ks..etc..), trail races, or a mixed variety-I chose the latter.
In 2013 I ran 10 races (woah!):
- 1 x relay
- 2 x 5K
- 1 x 10K
- 6 x half marathons
Note: a fun “by the numbers” post coming soon!
Based on that number (there was also a “running gap” between Jan-Apr and May-Aug) I felt that running 14 races was doable. Because I am a planner, I’ve had a list of 2014 races in mind for quite some time now (plus-I can take advantage of some early registration fees…although my wallet is probably not too happy about that)
This is what is what I have planned so far:
1. February – Miami Half Marathon (Miami, FL)
The first runcation of the year! I ran this half in 2012 and look forward to a little race redemption (and run fun in the sun!)
2. February – Virginia is for Lovers 14K (Virginia Beach, VA)
I’ve never run a race in Virginia Beach. I signed up for this 14K while at the Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon. Isn’t the Valentine’s Day theme and slogan cute?
3. March – Reston 10 Miler (Reston, VA)*
I ran PR Running’s Perfect 10K this past September and LOVED the course. Having run zero 10 milers in 2013, I wanted to add a couple (ok three to be exact) in 2014. This 10 miler is also put on by PR Running.
4. March – The Love Run Half Marathon (Philadelphia, PA)
Runcation #2! This is the inaugural race of the LOVE Run Half Marathon in Philly (there will be a few kinks I am sure-that is to be expected). I ran the RNR Philly in 2011, so I imagine portions of the course will be similar.
5. April – Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Miler (Washington, DC)
I’ve run this 10 Miler in 2007 and 2011 and this past Monday I found out I will be running it a third time in 2014! I can’t wait to see how much I’ve improved in 3 years (2007 was a different course, so it would not have been an apples to apples comparison).
6. April – GW Parkway Classic 10 Miler (Alexandria, VA)*
Since I LOVED LOVED the Wilson Bridge Half Marathon, I knew I had to add the GW Parkway Classic 10 Miler (there is also a 5K option). I’ve never participated in this race, Pacers is managing it, and its the 30th anniversary of the classic (there is a medal this year).
7. August – Charles “Chuck” Street 12 Miler (Baltimore, MD)*
Last year was the inaugural running of the Charles Street 12 Miler. Having worked and gone to college in Baltimore I wanted to run this point to point (net downhill) race; however it was held the same weekend I was running the SeaWheeze Half. The second edition it is!
8. October – Wineglass Half Marathon (Corning, NY)
Runcation #3, my mom and I will travel to upstate New York for this half! I hope to fit in some winery visits. The medals are glass medallions created at a glass studio in Corning.
9. November – TSC New York Marathon (New York, NY)
My deferred 2013 entry and marathon #2! I have my hotel room reserved and look forward to documenting my marathon journey. Any New York inspired playlist recommendations? I told you I plan wayyy ahead 🙂
10. November – 10K Across the Bay (Annapolis, MD)
This 10K will bring runners across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. I took advantage of pre-registration during the summer. There is some excitement surrounding this 10K as there has not been a run/walk over the bridge for a few years now.
11. November – SOME Trot for Hunger 5K (Washington, DC)*
I really enjoyed my Thanksgiving run this year, so I will definitely be trotting with Pacers and SOME again in 2014.
*To be registered
So far there are 11 planned races:
- 1 x 5K
- 1 x 10K
- 1 x 14K
- 3 x 10 milers
- 1 x 12 milers
- 3 x half marathons
- 1 x marathon
As you can see I left May (sooo many races to choose from!!) and September (potential vacation) pretty much open.
Under Consideration: Frederick Half Marathon Festival, ZOOMA Annapolis Half Marathon, Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon, Marine Corp Half Marathon, Maryland Half Marathon, or Brooklyn Half Marathon (not all of these!)
I would like to run a New York race ahead of the NYCM to get familiar with the city.
Do you have your 2014 race schedule picked out?
Do you have any recommendations for runs in May 2014 or September 2014?
Do you have any New York City based race recommendations?
