Charleston Distance Run Staying 15-Miles
I just received word that the Charleston Distance Run will be keeping it’s traditional 15-mile course for at least the next two years. They want to keep the 15 Mile course till the 40th anniversary of the race!
They have also elected a new interim Race Director. They went with someone who has a LOT of experience on the course. Charleston Attorney John Palmer has raced 33 times in the CDR and now will take over at the helm of the race!
There was a TON of discussion regarding the switch to a flat half-marathon. There are two sides here:
One is for the half-marathon – People think that by getting rid of Capital Punishment hill, and going with a more traditional distance, that more runners would come to Charleston every year.
The argument to keep the 15 Mile distance is based on tradition. Some of the more notable names who ran or came to speak at the 1st race include:
- Jesse Owens
- Dave Wottle
- Steve Prefontaine
- Jeff Galloway
THAT WAS JUST THE FIRST YEAR!!! Talk about getting started the right way!
Other great names that have come to the CDR include:
- Jim Ryun
- Rafer Johnson
- Bill Rodgers
- Frank Shorter
People also believe that the tough 15 mile course is a niche race that people will want to run because it is different from all the other races.
In my opinion, both sides are absolutely correct and I am starting to hear rumors that people on both sides of the argument may get what they want!
As for now, the CDR will remain a 15 Miler on a tough course on Labor Day weekend—but there are talks about adding a fast, flat half-marathon in the spring in Charleston.
This may be the best thing. Adding another half-marathon to our area (since the only major half we have is the MU Half-Marathon on November 7) will be a good thing. I know I would love to run a well-organized half-marathon in the spring!
However, just adding another race or keeping a race a certain distance will not guarantee success of a race. Races need to understand that they are selling a product and they need to market that product to the racers.
- Why should I come to your race?
- Will I be safe at your race?
- Will I be helping another cause?
These are just a few of the questions that need to be answered to bring the CDR back to it’s Glory Days or ensure the success of the yet-to-be named and only rumored flat, fast half-marathon in the spring.
posted Pat Riley @11:34 AM 
