Saturday new half marathon route

[dvmi...@windstream.net]

Hi Runners,

This Saturday, February 8th, we will start in front of the Performing Arts Center at UF at 6:30 a.m. and run the new route for the Life South 5 points half marathon.  It is attached and I will have a couple copies with me in a plastic bag so we can check it out as we run.  We will run up Hull road to join the route on Museum Drive, which is almost the 4 mile mark.  Drink stops -  You may want to carry a water bottle this time.  Here are my ideas:  We get a drink close to or in stadium if it is open.  We do a slight detour at Westside Park for drink, then the drugstore at 13th and 16th, and at Depot Park.  This route goes down the steep hill on 8th avenue - be careful there!  This route has hills to wear out your legs, and quite a few turns to make up little streets.  And Saturday, look forward to breakfast after we run!  

And I haven't mentioned it lately, but every Saturday there is a free 5K at Depot Park at 7:30 a.m.  Shauna Dixon has spearheaded 'parkrun' here in Gainesville.     parkrun.us/depotpark or on Facebook at Depot Park parkrun.  This Saturday, February 8th, the Florida Track Club will team up with the Park Run 5k at Depot Park with refreshments and food following the run. 

The Sunday morning trail run meets at 7:30 am, leave at 7:45  for a fun run under the trees.  Several marked nature trails allow for name-your-own distance between 2 and 20 miles, the large group means you never have to run alone (unless you want!).  All paces encouraged.  San Felasco south entrance, 11101 Millhopper Road, Gainesville.   Questions?  contact Richard  rjgarand@gmail.com  

Get ready to race:   Life South 5K and Kids Race is next Saturday February February 15th, Life South Half Marathon with the new route is next Sunday, February 16th. Early packet pickup is at the Hippodrone at the Race Expo from 9:00 to 4:00 PM Saturday.  So I will not be scheduling a long run next weekend!     Also, don't forget Oleno Park 5K is March 7th.  If you are not doing Gate River Run (same day) it's a fun little race to do.  So get registered!

Run happy, Diane