News: All

Since 2007, the Pichi Richi Marathon Committee, created by volunteers from Port Augusta and Quorn, has managed to keep the Pichi Richi alive. Christine Hill a member of the committee has kindly accepted to present us this Australian race. Hello, on June 28th 2009, you’ll be organizing the Pichi Richi Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located? The Pichi Richi Marathon is run between Port Augusta and Quorn in regional South Australia. It runs through the Flinders Ranges which is a beautiful and scenic part of the South Australian Outback How old is the marathon and why was it created in the first place? We have just run the 27th marathon. It was originally started by the Port Augusta Road Runners Club when they formed in 1982. In 1986 they incorporated the half marathon event and then in 1989 the half marathon walk was also made an official event. In 2000 the quarter marathon was also included as an event. What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The route is quite challenging as it begins in Port Augusta and follows the main highway for approximately 8km and then turns to continue through Stirling and up to Quorn. Approximately 19km into the marathon, runners take on the first hill and enter the Flinders Ranges. They then pass through the picturesque Pichi Richi Pass with its many hills and finally run down their last hill as they see the township of Quorn ahead of them. The last 5km into Quorn are relatively easy and downhill. How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We generally attract 300-400 runners across all events and around 30 in the marathon. The majority of our marathon runners compete in other marathons around Australia and a few have been to marathons around the world. Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? We also organise the half marathon walk and run and the quarter marathon walk/run which all finish at Quorn so everyone is present for the presentations. At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? It is generally cool in the morning when events start (<10°C) and around 14-18°C and sunny through the day. Occasionally we have a sprinkling of rain and this year there was a head wind for runners. Have you planned festivities around the marathon? We hold a pasta night the night before the event for competitors to pack with carbohydrates and it is a good social night to get to meet other competitors and is generally finished between 9 and 10 PM so people can get a good night sleep. We also have local volunteer groups and charities that set up food and drink stalls as the event finishes around lunchtime and children entertainment such as bouncing castles. This year we also had a craft and produce market and massages for the competitors. We provide a bus service as well for competitors to get back to their starting point where they left their cars. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Port Augusta before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? Port Augusta has numerous options for accomodation and eating, which is well priced. We have Wadlata Outback Centre which is an interactive and educational museum about the area and where you can travel to, and maps and souvenirs. The Arid Lands Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to go to see native plants and animals and has a nice little café where you can sit back and enjoy the scenery. There are also some tourist walks and drives around the town. As you head towards Quorn, there is a fantastic restaurant called the Old Willows Brewery Restaurant which is amazing at that time of year with its log fire and warm meals. They also host the start of the quarter marathon and provide a delicious afternoon tea for competitors if they want to drop in on their way back to Port Augusta. Quorn has many fantastic spots to visit such as gorges with their huge redgums and tranquil creeks and hills that are relaxing to climb with magnificent views of the surrounding area. There are also 4WD tours and camel rides available to those who are adventurous. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Pichi Richi Marathon? The Pichi Richi Marathon is the most scenic and challeging marathon in Australia which still has that personal touch. Thank you Christine If you need more information : Official Website of the Pichi Richi Marathon Pichi Richi Marathon on 42k195.com

GO! St. Louis Marathon is a marathon with a purpose. Jeff Trammel, the Director of Marketing & Communications of the GO! St Louis organization is our guest on the blog this week. GO! St. Louis is a non-profit organization which encourages individuals and families in the region to adopt a healthy lifestyle by getting fit, staying active, and eating a nutritional diet year round. The organization accomplishes this through school based programming, outreach to senior/retirement centers, community collaborations and the creation of new and unique fitness opportunities. The GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend is the organization’s signature event. Hello, on April 19st 2009, you’ll be organizing the GO! St. Louis Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located? The GO! St. Louis Marathon starts and finishes in the historic St. Louis downtown area. St. Louis, known as the Gateway to the West is a city rich in history, which is evident in the architecture rich buildings along the course. How old is the marathon and why was it created in the first place? The GO! St. Louis Marathon & Family Fitness Weekend started in 2000 and has grown from 2,500 participants to more than 18,000 in 2008. The original idea for the event was to create a weekend of family fitness events for all ages and fitness abilities. Although the Marathon and Half Marathon attract the majority of runners and walkers, the overall event is geared for the entire family. What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The race course is one of the most popular attractions for participants. The course starts in downtown St. Louis and includes views of the famed Gateway Arch. The course also includes Busch Stadium, where the St. Louis Baseball Cardinals play, the Anheuser-Busch brewery, the expansive Forest Park (second only to Central Park in size), the Delmar Loop (voted one of the top streets in the U.S.) and the beautiful Washington University campus. How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? The Marathon and Half Marathon will attract close to 20,000 participants in 2009. Although a good portion of the participants are from Missouri and Illinois, we had competitors from 46 states and eight countries last year. Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? In addition to the endurance race on Sunday, we coordinate various other events for all ages and abilities. On Saturday (April 18), we hold a Family Day with a 5K, Children’s Funs Runs, Diaper Dash and a Mature Mile for older adults. At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? April is a great time to visit St. Louis. Traditionally the weather at the start of the race will be in the 50-60 degree range, which is perfect running weather Have you planned festivities around the marathon? As part of the weekend, we have a local band that entertains in the post-race reunion area, along with food and drinks. The marathon course is lined with various entertainment and neighborhood gatherings. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to St. Louis before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? In general, St. Louis is a city that has a lot to offer. Things to do while visiting St. Louis may include: St. Louis Gateway Arch, Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri Botanical Gardens, Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, City Museum, Anheuser-Busch Brewery tour, Forest Park, Saint Louis Science Center and the diverse restaurants located throughout the area. The Central West End and Delmar Loop offer an array of restaurant choices. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the GO! St. Louis Marathon? The GO! St. Louis Marathon is a race that prides itself on top quality runner amenities and services, from the special technical shirts, finishers hats and large finisher medals to the plentiful water/energy stations and experienced medical staff. Proof is in the increased participant registrations, which have increased 700% since the event debuted. Thank you Jeff If you need more information : Official Website of the GO! St. Louis Marathon GO! St. Louis Marathon on 42k195.com

One of the first interviews I wrote on this blog was with Sandi Heal for the Royal Victoria Marathon. We’re comming back on the Vancouver Island in British Colombia – Canada to learn a little more about the Edge to Edge Marathon. Danielle Stothers kindly accepted to answer my questions. Danielle is working for the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce as the Special Events Coordinator focusing primarily on the Edge to Edge Marathon. She arrived in Ucluelet 3 years ago, coming from Ontario and fell in love with the scenery and local charm of the area. She is also passionate about the outdoors, fitness and community. Hello, on June 14th 2009, you’ll be organizing the Edge to Edge Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located? The Edge to Edge Marathon is located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, BC. The marathon starts in the small town of Tofino and ends in the small town of Ucluelet. A perfect 42.2 km apart from each other through the beautiful Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. You will be celebrating its 10th anniversary next year. Why was it created in the first place and how has it evolved during the past years? 2009 is our 10th anniversary and we have come along way with this race. It all started with locals tossing the idea back and forth for some time and in 2000 the Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce received a millennium grant to help with the start up costs, marketing etc. The race was created to introduce a healthy, active event to the west coast that both Tofino & Ucluelet could share. It is a sport tourism event for the area and is considered a destination run for many runners. Locals on the west coast take a great deal of pride into this event and we have almost 300 volunteers who come out and help put on this massive event. The race has since grown from 250 runners to almost 800. The 5 person Team Relay has always been an early sell out at 60 teams, and in 2006 the half marathon course was introduced. Last year we sold out of half marathon spots and are opening it up to 400 runners in 2009. The Edge to Edge is a fun and true west coast event; hopefully that will never change. What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The Marathon & Team Relay start in Tofino through the town, along Tofino’s bike path, then they take a right and head down to gorgeous Chestermans’ beach for 1.5 km. This beach is nice hard packed sand with views of the open Pacific ocean, a true highlight for most participants. After the beach they head back to the road where they run through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Old growth rainforest trees and a few glimpses of the Pacific Ocean make this the ultimate scenic marathon. Once out of the Park runners are now headed towards Ucluelet along the paved bike path. Water Stations, traffic control and first aid volunteers are set up along the way cheering runners on, ensuring the safety of each and every runner and providing water, energy gels or first aid if needed. The marathon ends in the quaint downtown harbour of Ucluelet. Post race food and celebrations follow. How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? In 2009 we are expecting 800+ runners. The race usually attracts experienced runners who consider this race a “destination marathon”; one to see and check off their list once accomplished. Corporate teams or groups of friends take the relay challenge just for fun. Also, Vancouver Island has a very large and enthusiastic running population. A large percentage of runners come from the Island either returning from the previous year or after hearing from a friend how challenging and rewarding it is. 100% of participants surveyed said they would return to the Edge to Edge in the future. Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? The Half Marathon is 21.2 km, also Sunday, June 14th, 2009. The Relay is a 5 person relay totally 42.2 km. each leg is approx. 8-14 km in length. At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? The weather on the west coast can be very unpredictable. In June the weather is typically warming up (15-20 C) but the chance of rain is always prevalent. The West Coast can be very rainy and foggy at times and this means cold, damp conditions for running. In 2008 we had near perfect weather with light rain in the morning and sun in the afternoon making it not too hot or too cold for participants and volunteers comfort. We tell runners to be prepared for rain, sun, hot and cold. Have you planned festivities around the marathon? On the Saturday prior to the event we have a Carbo-Load dinner for the runners. We have local sponsors BBQ fresh salmon, cook heaps of spaghetti with homemade sauce, fresh salads, refreshments and the fabulous table of home made desserts made entirely by our community. There is live music, a loonie/toonie draw and great door prizes. Post-race there is the awards ceremony and possibly in 2009 a post race street party to celebrate the 10th anniversary with more live music, food and prizes. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Tofino before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? Each runner receives their race information with local maps, a “Where to Eat” flyer and brochures from local tourist providers. That being said, I would recommend everyone take some time in the National Park- hiking, running, surfing, bird watching etc. It is endless with possibilities- don’t forget your camera! Also, enjoy some local fresh seafood; both Tofino & Ucluelet sell local seafood either for you too cook yourself or in one of the many fabulous restaurants on the West Coast- salmon, halibut, prawns, oysters, crab etc. Not to be missed! In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Edge to Edge Marathon? The E2E is the ultimate scenic race, a very challenging test of endurance with limited registration not to be missed by true adventure enthusiasts. Thank you Danielle If you need more information : Official Website of the Edge to Edge Marathon Edge to Edge Marathon on 42k195.com

Clark Zealand will be our guide this week to present the Terrapin Mountain Marathon. And when talking about endurance running, Clark is an expert. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada and is an Assistant Professor of Sport Management at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. He also has the fifth fastest time in Canadian ultra-marathon history for a 100 mile trail race in 15:03. Hello, on March 29th, you’ll be organizing the Terrapin Mountain Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located? The race is held in Sedalia, Virginia USA about 15 minutes from Bedford, Virginia. Why was it created in the first place? Ten years ago there was a half-marathon version that lasted only two years. It was a great race on a great mountain and I wanted to bring it back as a full marathon. What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? It is a very challenging course including steep terrain as well as technical trails and a couple stream crossings. Runners follow the Terrapin Mountain trail for most of the race. How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? This is the second year and we plan to double the 140 entrants we had last year. This past year we had a very competitive race with only 15 seconds between the overall men’s winner and second place. We also have recreational runners who attend. Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? In addition to the marathon, I have brought back the original half-marathon race as well. At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? The end of march can bring a variety of weather; it could range from 5 to 20 Celsius. Have you planned festivities around the marathon? In the future we plan to include family-oriented activities during the race weekend. 2008 top 5 runners The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Sedalia before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? They should hike the nearby Peaks of Otter Mountains, visit the WWII D-Day Memorial in Bedford, and take in some of the many local Civil War sights. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Terrapin Mountain Marathon? If you are looking for a challenging trail marathon with beautiful scenery, managed professionally and definitely not like your usual road marathon, then Terrapin is a great choice. Thank you Clark If you need more information : Official Website of the Terrapin Mountain Marathon Terrapin Mountain Marathon on 42k195.com

Winter seems to be a good time season to run a marathon in Arizona. I recently receved a mail from Debra Undhjem informing me that next year, a new marathon would be organized in Arizona. Debra, the race director of the new IMS Arizona Marathon, answered my usual 9 questions to present her new race. Credit : j.arsenault Hello, on February 15th, you’ll be organizing the first edition of the first IMS Arizona Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located? The IMS Arizona Marathon (IMS stands for Integrated Medical Services) is held in Arizona. It will run through 4 west valley cities  (ie. cities just to the West of Phoenix, AZ). The Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport is approximately 15 minutes away. It is the inaugural edition. Why was it created in the first place? We created the marathon to increase health awareness while showcasing cities of the west valley. Hosted by a non-profit organization, the IMS marathon committee is comprised of community leaders from all over the Phoenix valley. What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The proposed route starts at the base of Estrella Mountain in Goodyear runs by the Cleveland Indians Spring Training Stadium continues to Avondale taking the runners by the Estrella Community College. The runners will continue running through Litchfield Park, home of the Wigwam Golf Resort and Red Door Spa. The course then takes runners by Luke AFB home of the F-16 Fighting Falcon finishes in Glendale at the Westgate Center home of Super Bowl XLII. The marathon will be a Boston Qualifier. How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We expect more than a thousand runners to join us for this inaugural race. All types of runners are welcome. From 6 minute miles to 14 minute miles. For participants safety the course will close in 6 hours. Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? Half Marathon and team relay marathon At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? February is a beautiful time in Arizona. The average high 67 F. Have you planned festivities around the marathon? Absolutely instead of organizing a carbo dinner we are asking all local business to give us discount coupons so that our participants can have all sorts of options for the pre-race dinner. A band and awards ceremony will be immediately following the event. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Glendale before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? We will have set-up information desks to help guide people to different areas of our city depending on their interest. ie; Golf, zoos, Grand Canyon, lakes, desert hiking, jeep tours, mountain biking, relaxing by the pool. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of ahotu Marathons to make them register for the Arizona Marathon? We want all levels to participate…just put on your shoes and come play in the Arizona sun and be a part of this family oriented event! Thank you Debra

About 12 month ago, I wrote a post (Run in the foot steps of Lawrence of Arabia) in this blog about a new marathon that had been created in Morroco . This year, thanks to B. E., founder of the race, we will have a clearer view of the marathon. 1) Hello, on March 22nd 2009 you’ll be organizing the International Marathon of Ouarzazate. Can you tell us where it is located? The city of Ouarzazate is a striking mix of oasis, kasbah and flowery valleys. It is located on a vast desert plateau that draws tourists from many different countries. Under the shades of the palm trees, lies Ouarzazate, leaving behind her a tremendous rocky desert swept up by all the winds from Sahara. Several film studios are located here, giving to Ouarzazate the nickname of African Hollywood city …. 2) It’s the tenth edition of the race. Why was it created in the first place? Our simple goal for the second edition of the International Marathon of Ouarzazate is to do a better job than last year. We wish to provide to our attendees both a sportive and human pleasure. Additionnaly, we would also like to have an even larger mobilization from Ouarzazate citizens, in order to increase the growing reputation of our city, well beyond the Moroccan borders, as the African Hollywood city, its warmth and friendliness. 3) What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The route is made of 8km of road and 22 km of desert trail. It goes through mountains, dry wadi, Ouarzazate palm groves, sandy places, some oasis, along with film studios, where famous films have been recorded such as Kundun, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Astérix et Obélix, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile from Lewis Teague, The Sheltering Sky from Bernardo Bertolucci, and long time ago Ali baba et les 40 voleurs from Jacques Becker and of course Lawrence of Arabia. 4) How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We are expecting more than 2,000 male or female amateurs and professionals runners. 5) Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? No. 6) At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? Beautiful weather with a temperature between 18°C and 26°C (64°F to 79°F). 7) Have you planned festivities around the marathon? A great musical party will take place animated by local traditional bands. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Sommacampagna before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? After the Marathon, runners will be invited for a meal in the unforgettable PETITRIDE restaurant. After that, I would advise to visit some shops in the Souk, behind the historical Kasbah to find gifts for your family. Do not forget to visit the films studios with their prestigious sets. And to finish your visit, I would suggest a walk to see the largest pedestrian square of the city. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Maratona Internazionale del Custoza ? Our Super International Marathon of Ouarzazate is beyond the sportive adventure. It is the discovery of new territories and rare places. Enjoy your run ! The route has been chosen to give pleasure to runners, to let them discover untouched landscapes, an authentic city and share together the true value of sport. This marathon has to be yours, you will have the opportunity to discover, taste and appreciate Ouarzazate with all its outstanding sites, without moderation. Thank you very much B. For more information: Official site for the International Marathon of Ouarzazate International Marathon of Ouarzazate on 42k195.com

This week, we will visit Italy. Simone Lamacchi, the organizer of the Maratona Internazionale del Custoza has accepted to answer my usual 9 questions to present the race he has the charge of. Simone and his wife 1) Hello Simone, on May 10th 2009 you’ll be organizing the Maratona Internazionale del Custoza. Can you tell us where it is located? The Maratona Internazionale del Custoza will take place in Sommacampagna (near de Verona in Italy). The start and the finish line are located in the city and the race runs through the Morniche hills. 2) It’s the tenth edition of the race. Why was it created in the first place? The marathon was created to promote tourism in the region where the wine Bianco di Custoza is produced. The race is organized in cooperation with the city of Sommacampagna. 3) What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The route is the major strength of our marathon. It is located in the countryside. It is quite hilly (altitude varies from +60 to +140 meters above the sea level). And it runs through medieval villages and vineyard. The start is located in the park of an 18th century property. At the end of the 42km the route will lead the runners where they started. 4) How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? In the first edition, in 200, 140 runners competed. This year, they were 730. Next year we expect more than 800. Most runners are amateurs seeking a friendly atmosphere. 5) Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? On Sunday morning, when the marathon is run, we also offer 3 additional races : a 6km, a 11 km as well as a half marathon. We also organize a race for children less than 13 years old. 6) At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? The weather can vary a lot. In the past, we had temperature going from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Most of the time, it is sunny and the runners shouldn’t suffer from the sun since most of the route is shaded. 7) Have you planned festivities around the marathon? Usually, we organize a conference about ultramarathon on Saturday. The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Sommacampagna before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? Sommacampagna is surrounded by beautiful hills and vineyards. There are many restaurants where the exceptional products of our land can be tested. You can also visit the medieval village of Borghetto, the Lake Garda, the Sigurtà botanical garden (the largest in Europe), or for the children, Gardaland and Canevaworld amusement parks. In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Maratona Internazionale del Custoza ? You’ll be quite surprised by our hospitality and by the free lunch we offer after the marathon. Thank you very much Simone For more information: Officiel site of the Maratona Internazionale del Custoza Maratona Internazionale del Custoza on 42k195.com

Maxime Breton, a member of the Pays Viganais Endurance Nature association has accepted to answer my questions to present the Marathonion. His marathon association whose members are trail and raid runners decided to organize a mountain marathon in the valleys of the Cévennes (in southern France). 1) Hello, on August 3rd 2008 you’ll be organizing the Marathonion. Can you tell us where it is located? The Marathonion is a mountain marathon, located on the foot of Mount Aigoual, in the heart of the Cévennes. The start and the Finish line are located in Saint-André de Majencoules (a village in the Gard). 2) It’s the second edition of the race. Why was it created in the first place? This marathon is organized by an Onion producing cooperative (Coopérative Origine Cévennes) and by the Pays Viganais Endurance Nature association (which also organizes La course aux étoiles, a 64km Trail race). The idea bursted when a group of running farmers met members of my association. We both share this will to promote our beautiful area through a running race. There came the idea to organize a race that would run through the countryside, shapes by the onion growing. 3) What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? 85% of the route is composed of roads and 15% of trails. With a 800m elevation gain, it follows the roads drawn in the valleys of the Cévennes. The fist part mainly goes up and the second one down. The full description and also photos of the route are available on our web site. 4) How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We expect more than 200 runners. The race draws local runners, experienced runners who prepare big competitions as well as tourists who are pleased to take part in such events during their holidays. 5) Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? For the runners who don’t have sufficient training or capabilities to run the full 42km, we also organize a 2 runner relay. Each runner runs 21 km. The exchange point is at half race, on the highest point of the route. 6) At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? Dry and hot. This is why the start is 7:00 AM so that the runners don’t have to run during the warmest hours of the day. However, the runners will find shaded zones during the second half of the race. It should protect them a little from the heat. 7) Have you planned festivities around the marathon? We will organize a little hiking during the race. It will start from the village and allow the spectators to discover the area. In addition, an after-race meal, where local goods will be served will be held in the courtyard of the Saint-André de Majencoules castle. 8 ) The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Saint-André de Majencoules before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? The area attracts many tourists : the race is ran at the foot of Mount Aigoual which is located in the Cévenne National park. A few kilometers away can be found the Navacelles Circus and the beautiful valley through which the Vis river runs. 9) In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Marathonion ? Come and take part in a mountain marathon where friendliness and the fiesta spirit won’t make you forget the beauty of the route. Thank you Maxime. For more information : Official site of the Marathonion Marathonion on 42k195.com

Theo Peters, accepted to answer my 9 questions to present the Spark Spijkenisse Marathon. Theo is fifty and has been living in Spijkenisse since 1983. He ran the Spark Marathon Spijkenisse in 2006 and 2007. And now has joined the organisation. 1) Hello Theo, on December 7th, you’ll be organizing the Spark Marathon Spijkenisse. Can you tell us where it is located? The marathon is located in the city Spijkenisse, 12 km west of Rotterdam in the Netherlands. The start and finish are at the athletics court of Spark. 2) How old is the marathon? Why was it created in the first place? It’s a rather new marathon. It was first organised in December 2006 as part of the celebration of the 40-year anniversary of the athletic club Spark. Because of the enthusiastic comments after the first edition, Spark decided to keep the marathon on the calendar. 3) What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The route is one round through the polder land around Spijkenisse, with the last 10 kilometres through Spijkenisse itself. The landscape is diverse and almost free of traffic. It takes you alongside the water of the Bernisse and there is a nice view over the river ‘Oude Maas’. §staticmap(12830,5,800,200) 4) How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We expect some 800 runners on the different distances. About 200 will run the marathon. Many of the runners are ultra-runners and masters. We don’t invite athletes for a fee, but there are money prizes for the winners in a variety of categories. 5) Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? The club organizes different races, especially in the months before the Rotterdam Marathon that takes place in April. On the fifth of October there’s a run over 5, 10 and 15 km and on the 16th of November a run over 5 and 10 km and 10 miles. In June there is Rondje Voorne, a beautiful race over 50 km with start and finish in de historical city of Brielle and organised by our neighbour athletics club Voorne (www.rondjevoorne.nl). 6) At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? In the first edition there was a lot of wind and a temperature of about 7°C (45°F) and a some rain. In the second it was again a bit windy with a temperature of 8°C (46°F), but now it was dry. In spite of the wind many of the runners did run their fastest race of the year in Spijkenisse! 7) Have you planned festivities around the marathon? There are no festivities around the marathon. 8 ) The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Spijkenisse before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? The Maasboulevard is a nice place: it’s the 36th kilometer of the marathon. You have a view over the busy river the Oude Maas. This river is an important connection of the Rotterdam Harbour with the European hinterland. You can eat in the Chinese Indonesian Restaurant Angkasapuri which is located there. In the centre of Spijkenisse there are several other restaurants. I particularly enjoy dining at café Merz. 9) In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Spark Marathon Spijkenisse ? If you want to complete your races of 2008 with a well organised marathon with a beautiful track, then Spijkenisse is a good choice! Thank you Teo.

Julien Hatton accepted to answer my few questions about the Laguna Phuket International Marathon a few days ago. Julien is a member of the Go Adventure Asia team who is organizing the marathon. 1) Hello Julien, on June 15th, you’ll be organizing the Laguna Phuket International Marathon. The marathon will celebrate it’s 3rd anniversary this year. Why was it created in the first place? How has it evolved the past 3 years ? This project came up a few years ago from Go Adventure Asia which was approaching Phuket island resort owners to encourage them to be involved in a marathon. Actually the Phuket Triathlon has known a steady success in the past years and is now considered as Southeast Asia’s premier triathlon event, but a marathon was missing. The marathon has been established and welcomed by Laguna Phuket a bit after the Tsunami disaster as en event to revive its famous tourist destination attractiveness and attract a new target of customers via sports tourism. Celebrating its 3rd anniversary, the Laguna Phuket International Marathon is increasing and growing up through the years, from about 2 000 participants in the first edition to over 3 000 runners the year after, this event is really getting on a good track after this successful start. For this next edition, we expect more than 4,500 participants including 2,000 international runners from more than 45 countries. 2) What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it? The marathon course is an out and back course with a loop for the last 7km. The course is flat for the first 11 km with some rolling hills up ahead in the distance, between km 11 and km 15. km 23 and km 28 and again between km 35 and km 37. The half marathon follows the marathon course and turns at km 9 of the marathon course. It the follows the marathon course back to the finish line, so except between km 14 and km 16, this race is flat. The 10.5 km Run and 5 km Walk are flat loop courses looping around Laguna Phuket. 3) Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances? As noted above we will offer different races in order to satisfy in most of needs and integrate different types of runners. The Marathon will start first and will be followed with a Half Marathon, a 10.5 km Run, a 5 km Walk and a 2 km Kids Run. 4) How many runners do you expect on Sunday morning? What type of runners do you plan to attract? We expect about 4,500 runners participating in the different races of this event. This event has a charity-oriented and green environment purpose, the level of runners is quite diverse and all members of family can subscribe and participate at this enjoyment so as to promote a comprehensive and open event. 5) At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect? June is the beginning of the green season so rain showers may occur especially during the night. The air at this time of the year is quite humid with temperatures ranging from 23 C in the morning rising to app. 30 by noon. 6) Have you planned festivities around the marathon? The festivities and different kinds of activities have been planned to develop a large event with all types of enjoyment. The expo will take place from Friday to Saturday before the race and will hold a conference where the Japanese eco-marathoner Hajime Nishi will share his ‘Slow is beautiful’’ philosophy. He will also introduce a photo contest to which all participants are welcomed to join during the race day. Moreover the Laguna Phuket International Marathon has nominated HOPE Worldwide as its official charity. HOPE Worldwide in Thailand is dedicated to helping needy children and underprivileged girls and will encourage people to contribute by raising money through their participation. The Pasta Party and Farewell Party will complete the program to bring together participants and give a chance to talk to other competitors while enjoying delicious dishes at a five star location. 7) The marathon finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Phuket before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing? Phuket Island is now famous and well-known for beautiful spots and marvellous sightseeing activities, Nevertheless I would suggest two fancy restaurants which should let an unforgettable taste of heaven in mouth. Puccini Restaurant at Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket is considered one of the best Italian restaurants on the island. For some of the best Thai menus on offer check out the Ruen Thai at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket which offers a wide range of sumptuous Thai food. 8) In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of 42k195 to make them register for the Laguna Phuket International Marathon? Run Paradise ! Thank you Julien. For more information : Official site of the Laguna Phuket International Marathon Laguna Phuket International Marathon on 42k195.com