Your guess is. I’ve received several emails from those that ran Saturday’s Leprechaun Chase stating that their Garmin had various distances. Most ranged from 6.15-6.30 making the course a lot closer than I thought it was. So maybe it was just a tad short, maybe it was spot on, maybe it was just a tad long.
From Josh Darr: “You mentioned that the course was short and I am wondering where you got this information? Did you use a Garmin or GPS? The reason I am curious is because the race was a pretty big PR for me, but if it was not a full 10k I do not really want to count it as a PR. My Garmin read 6.198 so it was a little short, but close enough for me. I was curious as to how much shorter yours read if that is what you used. ”
To answer you Josh, neither a GPS or Garmin would give you reliable enough data to count your race as a PR. A Jones/Oerth Counter is the only USA Track & Field recognized device for establishing exact course distances. I will add that a steel tape is also being accepted for some cross country courses. I’ve posted the protocols before but maybe never an image, so here you go:
I won’t take anything away from anyone’s effort on any given course. I’ve run on plenty uncertified courses since moving to Nebraska and have given my best and have been proud of my effort too. But I’ll never count a performance as a PR unless the course is laid out to the exacting standards prescribed by the National Governing body of Road Racing (USATF).
Thanks to John Tully for sending the image above and the link to the story below.
http://saltyrunning.wordpress.com/2012/03/13/how-far-was-that-marathon/
Wrapping up the Dash For Diamonds. Not only did David and Megan win a fabulous diamond, they also won a trophy that was nearly 4′ tall. That hearkens back to the day when Real Hardware was the norm and to display your collection of over-sized swag was a badge of honor. The race also provided them a bag full of gift certificates to local supporting retailers/restaurants. Might sweet indeed.
I had the pleasure of introducing Mayor Suttle to the team. I’ve never been hesitant to promote the club so when I saw the Mayor eyeing our group I immediately went over and shook his hand and brought him to where the Good Mates were assembled (I’m sure there were some pink cheeks down in Plattsmouth.) He was quite interested in who they were and very impressed by their performances.
There was free Guiness Stout and food at the Dubliner. Free chips and salsa at Roja. A free post race drink at Parliment Pub. Plenty of apples, bagels, etc for everyone post race. Likely the best amenities package of any race of the year, our Team Nebraska Road Race Management Committee will have our work cut out for us!
I give eventual winner David Adams some last minute instructions prior to the race. Cory Logsdon looks on, Luka Thor also pictured.
Matt Pohren covered 15K quicker than anyone on Saturday by racing both the Dash For Diamonds and the Leprechaun Chase. A Good Mate that understands the goals and direction of the club better than most.
I’ve run 47.5 miles in the last 3 days. 19 on Sunday, 9.5 with hill repeats yesterday, and 19 again this morning. Linda has too. Our legs are HUGE, thank you Killer Coach!
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