Spring HM Recommendation?

Really?!?!  I've heard less than steller reviews of this race -- "it should be so much better of a race given the location, time of year, etc" but the organizers just keep not having their act completely together (this is from reading reviews... I have no first-hand experience).

But the R&R folks know how to put on a race.

Consider my interest level peaked.

I did National in 2009 and really liked it.

It's pricey, but the RNR folks do put on a good show.

See you there, Josh?!

Dang. I was really hoping to do this one, but I have to be out of town for work the 3 days leading up to the race, and there's no same-day number/packet pickup, so I don't see how I'll be able to take part (they say they check IDs at packet pick-up). 

Strong possibility.  I think it's the same weekend as VA Beach, which I was also considering.  I've got a hookup on housing and love towing my boat down there to make a long weekend out of it... but National would certainly be easy-peasy from a logistics angle.  I'm also semi-considering a 50 state run, and I just sort of assumed MCM would be my DC race (and God forbid I run two marathons in the same jurisdiction).

I think it's safe to say I'll be running a marathon that weekend, barring any unforseen hurdles between now and then.  Let's touch base before anyone pays any registration fees.

They often let someone else pick up your packet with permission and a copy of your ID.

I'd be happy to pick yours up!

Thanks guys! Much appreciated.

I'll try contacting the organizers as a first option, to see what they'll allow.

Frederick is a pretty good race. There are a few hills ... not steep but enough that FHM is not a "fast" race. And I like that it is only a HM ... there is not a simultaneous Marathon going on ... so everyone is racing the half. The course is much improved from a few years ago ... no more running thru the Wal-Mart parking lot ... so I'd have to say the course is a plus ... much better (more scenic) than Baltimore. Race-day morning access can be a little tricky as the cars back up a little so this is worth a pre-race trip to Frederick to check out the local roads around the Fairgrounds ... there are some very convenient back roads into the Fairground (Highland Street, Monocacy Road, etc).

They moved the Frederick HM to the fairgrounds this year (or last year?)- it used to start at the stadium - so I'm not sure what impact that'll have on race day traffic. The roads around the fairground aren't as traffic friendly as the stadium because it's further from the highway, so maybe leave a little more time?

Frederick is a pretty town though and the route winds through some of the good bits (and does avoid the Walmat parking lot as someone said). Without much experience running on the roads I can't speak to the hilliness. The hills don't seem that bad in a car, but then again... they never do...!

If you have someone coming to support you, the Frederick race is great because the course doubles back a lot and gives spectators a chance to see you a few times on the way by. My dad did it a few years back and my mum saw him in about 4-5 places because she was able to cut the corners. It's nice for those of us who are going to need a little encouragement along the way!!

John

Thanks for the feedback everyone... Here's what I've got so far:

7 January - Phunt Run 25K Trail Race

26 February - RRCA 10 Mile Challenge

4 March - B&A Trail HM

15 April - Kent Island Metric Marathon

20 May - Columbia Triathlon (Olympic)

10 June - Baltimore 10-Miler

24 June - Philly Tri (Olympic)

19 August - Ironman 70.3 Timberman

7 October - Half Full Triathlon

28 October - Marine Corps Marathon

November - Annapolis HM

December - Celtic Solstice 5-Miler

I feel like I need something in July, I'm considering adding Savageman in September, and I'm not quite sure what distance I'll do at Half Full - I'm registered for the 40, but may go for the 70, depending on how Timberman goes...

Hope to see some of you there!