Big Running Fun, 187 Miles of It.

I promised a lot of recommendations from the world of running and other heart racing adventures and I do my best not to disappoint. Prepare yourself for a doozy.

In July, I will test my athletic endurance for 24 hours and join a team of 11 other runners to run the 187-mile, curvy and hilly passage from Blaine to Langley, Wash. Call me crazy now, but I’ll reveal the secret to my superhuman strength and never-ending athleticism all in good time.

Ok, I give. It’s a relay. And you too, should gather 11 other pavement pounding fools to drive, sleep, eat, laugh, cry in pain, oh yeah… and run your way through some of Northwest Washington’s most stunning scenery and take part in the Northwest Passage Ragnar Relay.

Photo courtesy of VisitWhidbey.com

Beginning in the seaside town of Blaine, Wash. and running through Whatcom and Skagit Counties,  around Fidalgo Bay, across Deception Pass and ending on Whidbey Island you will run only three out of 36 legs of the relay ranging in difficulty through the evening of Friday, July 23, into the wee morning hours of Saturday July 24 and capping out in the late afternoon/early evening the same day. Uh FUN!

Registration is open now for teams of 12, so get on it and get out there. Recommended training schedules for varying strengths are available to ensure you’re getting in your two-a-days (haven’t done those since high school) and midnight runs. This race is doable for beginners through the most seasoned of athletes.

If you’re interested but can’t round up a full team, there are no excuses. Take advantage of the TeamFinder tool which will allow you to put yourself out there to be picked up as a member of another partially full team.

Have I inspired any of you to try something new and adventurous? Let us the Belles know if you’re planning to participate so we can cheer your team on!

Tags: Running, Sports, Thursday