FIVE DAYS - It's almost time!

And, speaking of TIME--For all you people in Illinois who are coming over to run with us--Grand Rapids is in the EASTERN time zone. So you'll probably want to reset your watch. And unlike the past years of our event, Daylight Savings Time DOES NOT end this weekend, so once you're on Michigan time, you should be OK.

Want to see some really nice pictures of the course and other places in Grand Rapids? Check out Vickie's Blog at http://vickiesjournals.blogspot.com/ when you get a minute. Also, you might want to check out Mike Zuidema's ramblings at http://blog.mlive.com/benchwarmer/ Spectators?? I'm getting a lot of questions. On the race map in the middle of your program (which you will get at packet pickup) there area several spectator-friendly areas marked. Please consult that map, then when you're here if you have questions, chat with some of the locals and ask them how to get where you want to go. You'll find out GR people are some of the friendliest in the world.

Here's a couple course notes--the course is pretty wide most of the time. We do hit the bike paths for a bit--through Millennium Park from mile 6 - 7 is the first spot. Then at mile 8 for about 3/4 mile. A little more from about 12 - 14. A little bit more between 16 & 17 and between 18 & 20. Stay to the right if you meet oncoming runners. Squeeze in, introduce yourself to some new friends. Try not to run three abreast.

Did I talk about IPods and MP3 players? USATF rules are that they aren't to be used. We have a USATF Sanction because that's how we get our liability insurance. That's about what I'm going to say about that.

Noticing any really pretty graphics? Check out the posters on the front of the web page. Pretty neat, eh? Our graphic design work is done by the Highland Group. Our victorious-runner-in-an-American-maple-leaf logo, brochures, all that other pretty stuff you see is their work. Not only do they do good art work, the REALLY know how to get a project done. gohighlandgroup.com

Is it Tuesday already? I think I hear the theme from Rocky playing off in the distance somewhere.

and the adventure continues....
Don