Atlanta will host our most talented Nebraska marathoners for the 2020 Olympic Trials Marathon. February 29, 2020 is the date. Start planning your competitive schedules and be sure to include your Very Best Opportunity to qualify.
The Valley 7 Lakes Marathon is set for April 27, 2019. With a total elevation of only 21′ the race claims the designation as “Flattest Closed Road Marathon In The World.”
The event is working on the “American Challenge” which will reward US athletes for achieving the “A” standard (2:15:00, 2:37:00) or “B” standard (2:19:00, 2:45:00). Training stipends along with overall prize purse should draw a deep national field for both men and women. An unparalleled commitment to U.S. athletes will be a hallmark of the race. Something that has been so very dear to me for the last 20+ years.
Support for our U.S. athletes won’t end there. Plans are to revive the USA Marathon Road Relay National Championships for 2020. According to Race Director Tristan Nelson the tour around the 7 lakes will have the 5K, 15K, 20K and 30K points certified in order to host the Ekiden style (5K, 10K, 5K, 10K, 12K) relay. Bringing the Tasuki to Valley, Nebraska!
Congratulations to Zach Zarda of the Kansas City Smoke. He popped a very fine 13:43.73 5000 meters on the track at the Mt. Sac Relays last weekend.
The Ekiden is the national sport in Japan. My trips to Japan (Chiba, 2002 and Yokohama, 2006) leaving an indelible impression. Instead of a baton runners wear and pass a sash called a Tasuki. 
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