Run Aware
When the marathon gets lonely and cruel is where I've learned so much about myself and my ability to persevere because I don't have something to escape the difficulty.
Cathy Blessing, MCRRC Vice President, RRCA-certified coach, and finisher of 16 road marathons, 2 trail marathons, 6 ultras (4 of which were 50 milers)—ALL without headphones.
We are MCRRC's "neighborhood watch" program. We promote safety and awareness on trail, track, road, and races.
The MCRRC Board approved a Run Aware Position Statement on 2007-10-04.
Safety tips:
- When you run, let someone know where you are and who you are (carry ID and leave notes); bring your cell phone.
- Make sure that you can see and be seen (clothing, illumination, no headphones).
- Take in the full experience—hear nature, be aware of sudden changes during a race, hear bikes, skaters, runners approaching.
- At races, running without headphones is "the law" (both USA Track and Field and Road Runners Club of America).
RUN AWARE is a volunteer campaign sponsored by Montgomery County Road Runners. For further information, contact the club at runaware@mcrrc.org.