Runners Circle Exchange
by John Wong
I always liked a good story and Chris Hutchins' is indeed a good story. She is a middle aged women with 6 children. Ask a busy person if you want to get things done. I thought I was busy with my 8 & 10 year-olds who demand so much of my time. Paying the mortgage and training for the marathon take up the bulk of the remaining hours. There is never enough time.
Having come from a poor family, I can understand the constraints of the family budget. Overcoming obstacles in life is symbolized by the marathon. Her story encompasses all the struggles and triumphs which I share, including the Boston Marathon.
Chris very creative and successful at her fund raising efforts. I remember doing something similar for the first Terry Fox Run. Chris exceeded her expectations both on raising the money and on keeping her daughter company on a short run. That's inspirational. Nothing succeeds like success!
For some who get hooked on running and racing, the world is not enough. You start doing all the local road races and then you want to branch out to other "best organized", "most scenic", etc. races around the world. The only catch is money, the almighty dollar.
Yes, I have stayed at friends' and relatives' homes for some marathons (New York, San Francisco, London), but there are only so many to go relatives. Wouldn't it be nice if runners could exchange hospitality? Chris asked the same question and it propelled her to set up runnerscircle.com where you can join a virtual running group with people from all around the world.
It is a good concept. Not only does it make remote site racing affordable, but also provides a place where like-minded people can meet, chat, and become life-long friends.
The web home menu uses an exact organization format. It is simple with an enticing question and a quick poll of opinions.
A short introduction to the Purpose and FAQ (frequently asked questions) sets you up for a free registration until January 31, 2000 unless extended. (The free registration has been extended but may end at any time.)
Mapblast and Mapquest are included to help with the geography and travelling details. It further goes on to explain the Host and Guest functions and rules. Offline users are also included so that no one is left out, even as the www is becoming mainstream.
It includes some useful links for all runners . Better yet, it has other
Go To Page: 1 2
