That is the question.
My good friend and fellow blogger, Andy, messaged me today about doing the PA Ragnar Relay October 2013.
Now, I have heard of these and read a few blogs about them. It seems people really enjoy these types of races, but I am not sure if I am one of those people who would. Now, having said that, I never thought I would run either.
Basically, a team of 12 people in two vans, take turns running a total of 200 miles over the course of two days.
Now, when I first read Andy's message, my first thought was, "no way." As the day went on and the more I thought about it, I started to think to myself, "why not?"
If you can get past the lack of sleep, lack of real food and 12 smelly people on top of each other in a van, then it actually sounds fun.
No really, you work as a team, decorate your van, wear costumes if you like and give yourself a fun team name all while running which is what I love to do. I am sure all the good and the bad combined will make for a great memory. Don't you agree?
So why am I writing this now when the race is a year a way? Well, because it is you who I look to for advice.
After finishing the Nike Half, it was clear to me that a marathon is in my future. I am pretty sure it will be the Philly Marathon, which will be in November next year.
The Ragnar will be about 5 weeks before the marathon. Now I have not made any definite plans, but is it bad planning to do those two big events in that amount of time?
So, how many of you have done one? What did you like/not like about it? What did you think about running at night alone? Were you really alone or were there other runners from different teams around you?
Anything else you want to share?
Run Strong, Think Big!
I say DO IT!!! My plan is for the Miami to Key West one January 2014!!
ReplyDeleteI did Hood to Coast about 5 weeks before my big, important marathon. It was great. I volunteered for one of the legs with higher mileage and stayed away from the leg that was steeply downhill. If you have good training, a relay shouldn't hurt your marathon.
ReplyDeleteI have now done two relays and loved them both. There were good parts and bad for both of them. One of the toughest things is dealing with team dynamics and the drama that comes with many women. But that also gave me some of my best memories.
My night legs for both races were my FAVORITE. I was really scared about my first one, but it cleared my head and put me in a really good place for the rest of the weekend. I could see lights from other runners and passed a few, but I was alone a lot. It was ok though. My second relay was even better. My night leg went through a golf course. I ran with some other runners for a bit, but really enjoyed the solitude. Many of my teammates had people run with them during the night legs (which is allowed) and one actually wishes she had run it alone.
If ya have chance, do it. Another race experience to put in books and blog for us. I have read about these races. Very different. Soak in what you can. And, it's only about 17 miles each, correct. Neat distance.
ReplyDeleteI have never done a Ragnar but really want to. It would definitely put me outside of my comfort zone, but that's what life is all about:) I say go for it!
ReplyDeleteI did my first half at Nike in October, and now I am trying for my first full which will be in January. Have you thought about moving your marathon training up, and then doing the Ragnar in October? Either way, if you decide to stay with that marathon and do Ragnar, I don't think it would be an issue. But, if I was given the opportunity- I would go for it!
ReplyDeleteI would think Ragnar would fit in perfectly with marathon training. I'm doing my first (keys) this coming January, and have half marathons slated for February and March. Run on!
ReplyDeleteI completely understand your hesitation.. I have not done one, but like you, I also kind of feel like, why not? I hope to eventually... not sure when or where. Love the new header, by the way! I can't remember if I told you that yet. :)
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