Gateway Running Club: This Gateway Running Club seems to have it go'n on!  I'm getting these emails about a cue sheet for the club sponsored runs  they have going out of the Wareham Y.  This means you get to check out the planned runs, download a map, and get up to date info.  Not only that they are beginning to share stuff like this:  Thanks to Paul Allaire, Please keep me updated.

If you don't think this can happen to you...be warned.....and stay alert!
A friend of one of our runners was the victim.

FYI:
http://running.about.com/od/safetyissuesandtips/ht/runsafe.htm

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STARTING OUT COLD:  In today's (1/25/10) Globe's G magazine there is an excellent article about winter running, and how to deal with the cold.  It is part of a series of articles by Elizabeth Cooney called: Going the Distance.  There are two more articles prior to Boston, and one after Boston..

These articles are geared for the novice as well as the experienced runner.  Short and sweet.  They are a very good read.

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2010 Stoned Elephant Stampede:   This year the Stampede is going to make an honest effort to get more runners involved.  I somehow have to award points for runners who enter all of the races, but don't place amongst the top five.  I'm thinking that we could go top 10 in each age group.  I need some input, and will welcome your ideas.  The volunteer, marathon points, and bonus points for articles etc are going to remain the same.  Marathon points are going to be adjusted to the include just two marathons. 

I would like to award points for at least one trail race.  I really need some help here, because looking at time is not really good.  The day, trail etc all have a play in how fast  it is run.  Any ideas?

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HELP WANTED:  Want to make a couple of bucks?  I'm looking for people who have some computer skills,  interested?  braunjh@comcast.net

New Bedford Half Marathon:  Things have changed with the New Bedford Half Marathon, and they are for the better. I'm warning you right now, the Friendly Son's are movers and shakers.  They understand marketing.  Right now the race is up in registration over this time last year by nearly 250 entrants.   I need you to spread the word on some significant changes.  There will be no more race activities at the Carney Academy.  The race will now conduct all of its pre and post race activities at the New Bedford YMCA on Water Street.  Yes, even the post activities with the meal and awards.   The very popular Restaurant Run is also back.

Parking will be better.  Tell your out of town friends to utilize the Elm St. garage.  The Friendly Son's of St. Patrick will have signs and volunteers directing them to the Y.  There will also be parking at the Y.  Early birds will benefit from this.  In addition will be the Ziterion Parking Garage, and possibly the Ferry Parking Lot with a shuttle.  This is still in the works.  What  is important is that you keep abreast of the race by visiting http://www.newbedfordhalfmarathon.com.

Next is the T's.  There is a change.  The T's will go to the first 1,500 entrants.  While the entry fee did go up slightly, there is no more ordering a shirt.  So, if you want to pay more and not get a shirt, wait to sign up on the last day.   Right now almost a quarter of these shirts are gone.  You snooze, you lose.

No more bulky chips that make your ankles bleed.  The new race timers, Yankee Timing uses the latest in technology.  This will be a simple tag that you attach to your shoe.   At this writing, you will be given your real time as the race will have start mats as will as finish mats.

While there will be an increase in the facilities at the Y, the race committee is also increasing the amount of port-a-john's in the downtown area. 

I asked and received two free applications to the New Bedford Half Marathon.  I wish to thank them.  I asked for them so that I could give them to the top male and female winners of this year's Stoned Elephant Stampede.   Thanks Dan McCarthy, and all the members of the Friendly Son's of St. Patrick. 

I'll be doing the announcing down town again.  I have a lot of dirt on a bunch of you, so look out.