What Will the Weather Be?

As I plan my list of things to take to the marathon (warm clothes to wear until the last moment at the start and then ditch, a jacket to put into baggage, money for a cab from anywhere should I -- God forbid -- have to drop out, a cellphone to keep in touch with loved ones, gummy bears or jellybeans for quick energy) the weather forecast is constantly top of mind. Even in the 50s, pants are likely to be too hot. But the forecast calls for a high of 49, which leads to a quandary -- will I freeze my butt off w/o pants? Certainly once I really get going I'll be ok, but those first few miles could be uncomfortable. At this point, I'm still leaning towards shorts. I have a rather late (10:20 am) wave start and my shorts have better pockets. But I'll keep my eye on the weather outlook and be ready for a last minute switch.

The Countdown Continues

5 days to go before the NYC Marathon! I enjoyed a nice short run today and will continue to taper off my runs, with no major activity after Wednesday.

My marathon update email today contained two interesting bits of information:

1) Poland Spring water will sponsor a celebration of NYRR's 50th anniversary and the race that includes "a pre-race finish-line party" starting at 6 pm with live entertainment, a happy anniversary song, and fireworks at 7:30 pm (look for the number 50 in the sky).

2) The Empire State Building, the most recognizable building in New York City, will show its marathon colors from November 1 to 2. The building’s tower lights will radiate orange, blue, and white in honor of the marathon. This beacon will signal all marathoners to go to the Empire State Building to receive a free pin while supplies last. Runners need to present their bib, or a copy of their registration card, at the cashier's office to collect the pin.

Just over a week to go...

... and I've got my two very long runs (18 miles and 20 miles) under my belt and am starting to taper so that I'll have "fresh legs." I'm starting to make lists about all the last minute stuff (for example, I mustn't forget to charge my ipod the night before!) and to pray for "just right" weather.