The Day After Tomorrow

(Theme from Rocky plays in the background)
And NOW, LIVE, FROM GRAND RAPIDS MICHIGAN

On this corner, from cities and towns in thirty-six states and three countries, we have nearly 3000 runners.

In the far corners, we have beautiful Michigan fall colors, enthusiastic volunteers, amazing staff and 26.2 miles of the Grand Rapids area.

TWO DAYS...Your preparation meets our preparation in a contest of strength, endurance, and fun.

Like Michael Buffer says..."LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE"

The weekend is here. The weather sounds like reasonable Fall Michigan running weather.

And, as for fall colors--try these:

Green. Our fantastic volunteers. If you see someone in a green volunteer shirt, thank them, give them a high five, make them feel appreciated.

Blue. The blue windshirts are area leaders--aid station captains, lead bikers, people willing to take on some responsibility. If you have a minor concern, see one of these people.

Orange. Medical--Metro Health and Life EMS professionals, hoping you don't have a problem, but there to take great care of you if you do.

Royal Blue. The Royal Blue Brooks team jackets are on some of the most amazing people ever to staff a marathon. If there's a problem see one of the staff members. If there's not a problem, stop and say Hi and give them a hug or something. They deserve it.

Red. The pace teams. Follow them for a great time.

Green. The color your friends will be with envy when they see that big honkin' medal around your neck on Monday morning.
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Minor business items--1. Our race shirt is crimson, and it's a custom color in the long sleeve. Because we had so many more runners than we planned on, we also added a bunch more shirts, but they're navy. They're all Brooks long-sleeved Podium shirts--likely the best running shirt you'll ever wear. Anyway, to make sure that everyone gets a crimson one that wants one, we're offering a free hat to anyone who takes a navy shirt. Just ask when you pick up your race packet.
2. I'm planning on being at the Hideout from 4:30 to 6:00 today if anyone wants to join me for a pre-race weekend microbrew. It's at 3113 Plaza Drive NE, Grand Rapids. Google map it and find your way there.
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We'll see YOU this weekend. YOU'RE GONNA BE AWESOME OUT THERE!

and the adventure continues....
Don Kern
http://www.cooladventures.net/