CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - In just under three weeks from now the annual P.E.I. mid-October tradition will be well underway with hundreds of runners and walkers pounding the pavement from the National Park on the North Shore and through the streets of Charlottetown making their way to an exciting finish in front of Historic Province House.
This is indeed an exciting year as it will be the 15th anniversary for the P.E.I. Marathon.
Marathon weekend has events for everyone from the kids FoxTrot, the corporate relay, five- and 10-kilometre races to the half and full marathon distances.
The P.E.I. Marathon course is ranked as being in the top five in Canada for Boston qualifying. With Its unique start, set amongst the dunes of the North Shore, the rolling surf of the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the quiet rural roads and forgiving trail system, a personal-best time is almost guaranteed.
Having been fortunate enough to have participated in marathon weekend during the past 14 years and planning on running again this year, I’ve seen a few slight changes through the years from improved running attire, lighter footwear, heart rate monitors and, of course, the GPS watch, which has been a great gadget for monitoring pace and distance.
Even with the increase in available fitness programs, I still feel that running is the most simple and inexpensive form of exercise. All that’s required is a shirt, shorts and a pair of running shoes. We’re surrounded by miles of country roads and amazing trails. The popularity of running/walking events has certainly seen steady growth through the years.
Probably the biggest change I’ve seen in the last few years is the number of people that have made lifestyle changes with new fitness regimes, diet and have gone from the couch to 5k and beyond to the full ironman distance.
Many lifestyle changes have taken place during the last 15 years thanks in part to events like the P.E.I. Marathon as well as the many other running/walking events held throughout the years.
With less than three weeks until marathon weekend and, depending on the event you’re participating in, you’ve probably started a gradual taper of training by shortening your long runs and focusing on shorter quality runs with some focus on a few hills and some bursts of speed.
I’ve just done my last long run this past weekend and look forward to the reduced mileage but also some shorter, faster workouts to sharpen the muscles.
That’s it for this week. Stay sharp,stay fit and stay hydrated.
Scott Clark is an avid runner and a board member for the P.E.I. Marathon.
