Hello Saturday Long Runners!
Welcome back to our last week of Snowball Series Races instead of our regularly scheduled SLR. Judging from feedback I've received, it's been a bit of a mixed bag ranging from "this was great we should do it every year" to "never again please". I'll bring it up at the next board meeting and keep you all updated as to what will happen next year for SLR/Snowball Series crossovers, but rest assured this will be the last time we cancel SLR this year. The weather for tomorrow's Langley 8K looks stellar, with temperatures in the upper 40s and wonderful indoor amenities courtesy of Langley High School, there's no reason not to come out! Now let's get into it:
The Route:Â It'll be a Party in the CIA tomorrow as we race the Langley 8K! If you think your neighborhood loop is hilly, just wait til you see what we have in store tomorrow. We'll start out on a bike path with a gentle downhill before heading into the neighborhood where we'll be treated to plenty of rolling hills. If your spring marathon has some elevation or you're planning to race the club challenge, this is the perfect tuneup race to test your legs against some elevation changes in a low-key environment.
Want Something Shorter? The 8K is the only option tomorrow, but if you're interested in volunteering instead there are plenty of spots along the course that will net you a shorter run if you jog there and back!
Need a longer route? I love to hit up Scott's Run Nature Preserve when I'm out in that direction for some extra miles. The park has an excellent trail system and a great opportunity to see the Potomac River from the other side of the canal!
Thirsty? There will be water and other goodies before and after the race. Last year I also distinctly remember a water stop around one of the hills (specific, I know) but I'm not fully confident there will be one this year.
Need a Bathroom? Langley High School has excellent facilities and plenty of restroom options inside (with plumbing! and fully stocked soap dispensers! a real treat!).
The next club race is THE club race, also known as the Club Challenge. Registration for this event closes on February 15th, so sign up today! We also have a bus from Court House and Dupont Circle, so if driving on the BW Parkway is holding you back, join 40 of your closest friends as we recount all our fantastic high school cross country memories. Award nominations are also open for club awards that will be presented at the banquet on March 10th. Nominate your training partners (or yourself) who had incredible years so we can recognize them appropriately!Â
Happy Running!
