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Dear Gerry, Thanks for the explanation on the posting issue in the Providence Journal. I understand what the Journal prints is out of your control. I just felt bad for the runners who completed the course and were not recognized in the paper. You and your team did a wonderful job. See you next year
.
Barbara-
USA
- Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 17:51:19 (ET)
I would hate to have been standing next to a rep from Ultima at any of the aid stations where the folks handing out cups were hollering, "Gatorade!"
Half Marathon Finisher
USA
- Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 14:36:54 (ET)
Congratulations on a great effort putting on this event while overcoming the hurdles of having the sponsor back out on you. I would like to thank you and your staff and all the volunteers and sponsors that made it possible.
I'll be back next year.
Marcel Lussier
sillyrunner@aol.com
Bellingham , MA USA
- Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at 09:42:37 (ET)
Hi Gerry,
Thank you for putting this race together. You and your staff did a fantastic job. At first, I was leery about all those hills but they ended up being insignificant after all. As for me. I came in the race with a 3:21 PR and ended up running 2:58:24 and qualify for Boston. Great race. Sorry I couldn't stay for the after-party but I did help me on some fine pasta and apple crisp before catching my 12PM train to NYC. I've already talked to some people here about the race and they will definitely come down for next year. The experience was amazing that I'd like to contribute money so that the event happens next year. How do I go about it?
Francis Nzeutem
francis@runnersplanet.com
Brooklyn, NY USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 20:14:33 (ET)
To Barbara and all entrants and finishers: I am not in the job of explaining editorial decisions generally but in this case I was privvy to a difficulty the Providence Journal might have with printing the full results on Monday. Evidently, the translation of results from our timing company to the Journal's editing process takes some time and expertise. The person who usually does the job was unavailable Sunday night and the transition was much more difficult than normal. I am in no way defending or apologizing for the lack of full results publication only providing information that was given to me before the race.
I am hopeful the remaining results will appear in the Journal's Tuesday edition. In no way, does OSM or Cerrone Auto Group, have any say on what the Providence Journal prints or doesn't print. The full results were available here by 6pm on race day and on coolrunning.com even earlier than that.
I truly appreciate all the kind words and will make certain all the volunteers who worked tirelessly in inclement weather are aware of the praise they have received and richly deserve. And, we thank every one of you for supporting our efforts with your own fine performances from first to final finisher.
See you all next year!
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greenwich, RI USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 20:03:14 (ET)
Very professional event I was proud to be a part of as a participant. Everyone seemed to know their job from the people at the expo to the water stations to the chip removers at the finish. Everyone treated with great cheer and courtesy - a real credit to the race Director who is the conductor of this army of enthusiastic volunteers.
Thank you very much indeed for a great experience and thanks to all sponsors who's support does not go unnoticed.
Enough said!!
Paul Howard
paulhoward@cox.net
Barrington, RI USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 19:36:53 (ET)
I would like to thank Gerry and all the volunteers for a great race. I will definitely be back!
I would also like to ditto Barbara's comments about the Jornal coverage. Of course it's not the fault of the race directors that the Journal did not post the full results. That being said, the Jornal should realize that they cut out about 209 potential readers when they decided to not post the full marathon results. My name was listed, but as a result of their omission I'm in no hurry to buy a Providence Jornal anytime soon.
OSM 2003 Participant
USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 19:13:52 (ET)
Dear Gerry, I was a little disappointed with the Providence Journal's coverage with the race results. Although it was not my first marathon, I was surprised that the journal chose to published just a partial listing of the finishers. It was stated that in the journal article that Al Cerrone was looking for input to improve the race. How about having him get the journal to print the whole list. I see the ads his dealership print in the journal; I'm sure if he requested it for next year they would accommodate him. I feel bad for the first time finishers that looked forward to having their friends and relatives see their success in the paper and had been short changed. Let me know your thoughts.
Barbara Durand
handscaler@cox.net
RI USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 17:11:32 (ET)
Great Job Everyone! I noticed there was a proffessional photographer at the finish line. Will they be making the photos available for sale and how do we contact them?
Ted
RI USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 15:12:43 (ET)
Being my first 1/2 marathon, I was unsure what to expect. Your event was one of greatest experiences I have had in a long time. Everyone was so friendly, food was great and the accommdations were "heavenly". See you next year.
Paul D. Schwartz
nightowlschwartz@aol.com
Phillipston, MA USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 11:17:39 (ET)
Gerry, Great job with the race everything was perfect. See you next year. Dave A.
Dave Armstrong
IRNALOT38@AOL.COM
SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI USA
- Monday, October 13, 2003 at 07:43:33 (ET)
The staff and volunteers did a great job!! Tuff course to monitor every single spot-but u did great. Also thanks to the CCRI Medical staff--treated my wife and I after the run, they were so friendly, caring and helpful. Nice job to everyone--it was great! I'll be back.
Mark
Rothfuss_mark@emc.com
Brockton, MA USA
- Sunday, October 12, 2003 at 21:14:29 (ET)
Great job to Gerry, staff and all the volunteers. Had no problems with all the turns and overlaping of races. Light rain and cool temps.was just fine. Having Monday off after the race is key.
Ray
USA
- Sunday, October 12, 2003 at 20:26:28 (ET)
Thank you Gerry Beagan, the Cerrone group and all the volunteers for a fantastic marathon. I loved running with the half-marathoners and felt an urging to turn left on Broadway with them. The weather wasn't great for pictures but very "cool" for the race. A very memorable day.
Tom
MA USA
- Sunday, October 12, 2003 at 18:36:32 (ET)
I was training for my first marathon and injured my right quad pretty bad. I got up to 18 miles.. oh well. There is always next year. You should all be proud of yourselves and do the best you can. HAVE A GREAT RACE.
Cindy
clcewe@comcast.net
Middleboro, MA USA
- Saturday, October 11, 2003 at 19:22:32 (ET)
are there shower facilities at the convention center or close by?
bill sweetay
sweetay@hargray.com
hilton head island, SC USA
- Friday, October 10, 2003 at 11:51:14 (ET)
To Rex and everyone: Entry fees for OSM are based on getting some type of handle on how many people we can expect on race day so we can plan for shirts, medals, food, beverages, program books and all the other costly items that go into putting on an event such as this. We increase the entry fees as we get closer to the race to encourage people to enter earlier so we can determine a reasonable entry count from previous experience. The increases of entry fees, fully publicized on all marathon marterials, are meant to encourage earlier entries and, somewhat, to discourage procrastination that leads to a late rush of unexpected entries that we might not be prepared for. Since Boston, and many other major marathons, whose entry fees are $75 or more, with the same level of expenses, or less, we do not think any of our entry fees are excessive or unreasonable.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greenwich, RI USA
- Thursday, October 09, 2003 at 17:17:12 (ET)
Thanks Rodney. I guess I'll just jog the course Saturday to get a preview :)
OSM 2003 Participant
USA
- Thursday, October 09, 2003 at 10:54:42 (ET)
For those of ya'll thinking about scouting the course for Sunday...FORGET about trying to drive the downtown loop of both races. I attempted to drive the half course yesterday and did fine through 6 miles...and then found out many of the streets in Providence are one-way...found out many streets in Providence are not marked...found out people in Providence cross streets at any time and any place they want to...found out that drivers in Providence don't have a lick of patience with out of towners whom are driving just a TAD slow...and found out that it took me over 2 hours to try and see all of the course, as well as 23 miles on my odmetre. Boy was I tired at the end of the drive. The good thing was that all the miles I saw are marked, as well as lots of directions painted on the pavement. I don't think I'll get lost on Sunday!
Rodney Furr
dar0107@aol.com
Florence, MA USA
- Wednesday, October 08, 2003 at 18:35:04 (ET)
We do not have the capability to track runners electronically for display on the internet. That is a very expensive proposition. There are indoor facilities at the RI Convention Center from 6:30 am on race day. The convention center is less than 1/4 walk or jog from the start. You can stay warm and dry (if necessary) and then warm-up on the way to the start.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greewnich, RI USA
- Monday, October 06, 2003 at 18:18:20 (ET)
What warrants the huge increase in the registration fee?
Rex Banner
RI USA
- Monday, October 06, 2003 at 18:16:20 (ET)
Since we have chips, will the fans be able to follow our marathon progress on the web?
Enid
coquipro@worldnet.att.net
Bronx, , NY USA
- Monday, October 06, 2003 at 17:02:38 (ET)
Hello, not sure if this is even a possibility but is there are there any companies or maybe any organizations for a fund raiser that offers some type of a gift (care package) for a family member or friend that may be running in the marathon that can be purchased.
Joe
CT USA
- Monday, October 06, 2003 at 15:41:55 (ET)
I can't find this info anywhere on the site: Will there be an indoor(warm) place to wait before the start of the race this Sunday?
Thanks.
Richard
Richard KElly
kellydrum24@yahoo.com
Walpole, MA USA
- Monday, October 06, 2003 at 10:41:05 (ET)
To answer last two questions: the parking at the state house area is free and available as long as the lots are not full. It is doubtful the lots will be full so someone going there after the start should find space, otherwise there is parking on-street which is not ticketed on Sundays; the mile markers should be painted within the next few days depending upon weather and other factors; the runners will travel on the westerly side of the traffic island on North Main St., in a coned offed lane.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greenwich USA
- Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 19:37:06 (ET)
Will free parking be available for spectators who arrive later than the marathon start time?
Holly
Boston, MA USA
- Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 17:51:43 (ET)
I was just wondering, when will the mile markers be painted on the course? Some of the marks from last year are gone and it would be nice to get a look at them ahead of time, particularly toward the end of the route. Also -- on N. Main St., which side of the divider will the course follow?
A runner
RI USA
- Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 21:56:22 (ET)
To answer the two latest questions: the registration process at the health and fitness expo is quite smooth and not lengthy. If you have the time between noon and 6 pm on Saturday you should have no problem; both races will start together at 7:55 am and we anticipate a total field of 1500.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greenwich, RI USA
- Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 17:43:16 (ET)
Will it be a hassle to sign up at the expo the day before or would it be easier if I just registered with a credit card online? I was leaning toward the expo, but if it's to much of a hassle i'll just do it online.
Tom
RI USA
- Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 16:51:00 (ET)
I'm a 50-stater and am going to try to run Hartford and Ocean State that weekend. Anyone else out there considering the same thing? Concerns? Logistics tips?
gs
Gordy
gsavela@it.cc.mn.us
Grand Rapids, MN USA
- Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 07:09:12 (ET)
Approximately howmany People will be running the marathon and half marathon respectively?
Will it be a mixed same time start for both races?
Ed
MA USA
- Friday, September 26, 2003 at 16:44:45 (ET)
In answer to the parking question, there will be plenty of free parking at the start in the state house area. Those people who have entered have received, or will receive, detailed letters, including maps, all pertinent infomation about race weekend. Most of that information, including maps, is on these pages.
Best of luck with training to everyone.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greenwich, RI USA
- Friday, September 26, 2003 at 14:55:06 (ET)
When it comes to running marathons, you should always plan in advance. I know, I've run 18 of them. Well, this time I made a mistake. Thinking that it was a low key marathon, I wouldn't have any problems booking a hotel room two weeks before. Well, everywhere I called is booked. I managed to find a room at the Westin for $200, but I was wondering if anybody would like to share it with me (and the costs with it). If so, please email me directly. I would really appreciate it.
Francis
francis@runnersplanet.com
bk, NY USA
- Friday, September 26, 2003 at 12:53:53 (ET)
I'm driving in from Newport on race morning. Where might I park?
Larry
USA
- Friday, September 26, 2003 at 11:03:08 (ET)
Ahhh!! I can't wait anymore. My last long run is done with. It went really well actually. Tapering is going especially well. haha just kidding. I'm really nervous, but i'm trying to stay positive. My goal is under 5 hrs. I know it's not an amazing feat, but this is my first marathon and i'm only 16 yrs old. Well i can't wait until the big day. See you guys there!
T.J.
Cranston, RI USA
- Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 17:47:02 (ET)
The OSM course looks intimidating on paper but the hills aren't really all that bad. Out of all the fall marathons I prefer to run OSM. This will be my 4th and I always qualify for Boston.
So forget about the hills and enjoy scenic Providence.
Cindy
marathonmomma@msn.com
Attleboro, MA USA
- Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 16:16:33 (ET)
First OSM Marathon - Very excited, very anxious - We did our final training run this past Saturday in great weather down here in Charlotte - Most folks here are running Chicago on 10/12 - Been there done that - It is all about trying different races -
In reading the comments from y'all the hills appear intimidating - oh well
I will be trying for a perfect 9 minute/4 hr marathon
Glenn
Charlotte, NC USA
- Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 09:23:26 (ET)
I'm shooting for 2:55ish: 6:40 pace all the way. I'm sure there will be enough people trying to break 3:00 so that we won't be completely alone the whole race.
OSM 2003 Participant
USA
- Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 09:12:46 (ET)
Am running my last 23-miler this Saturday. Trying to keep the weight down. Just ran the Philly Half this past weekend and yes, I do hope the weather could be like the one we just this past Sunday. I'm looking to run between 2:58 and 3:05. Will I run in no man's land the whole time or will there be some kind of group?
Francis
francis@runnersplanet.com
bk, NY USA
- Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 22:07:52 (ET)
Finished feeling ok with a 22 miler on Sat. Hope the next couple of weeks fly by. Was reading the course description and sure hope all those turns through Providence especially the merges of the two races are well marked and manned.
Ray
USA
- Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 21:27:32 (ET)
If we can get a day like we had on Sunday it would be great. This is my first marathon and the thought of tapering down is a welcome one!
OSM Participant
Providence USA
- Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 16:46:17 (ET)
OK, we should all be tapering now. How did everyone's last long run go?
OSM 2003 Participant
USA
- Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 14:57:28 (ET)
The hills are alive with the sound of muscle spasms!!!
For those of you who keep mentioning the hills, heres my two cents, these are the ones that get my attention:
Mile 20 Gano St. Nice timing for a hill, one that seems to go on forever. Not super steep just unending. OK just 6.22 miles to go Hang Tough!!
Mile 21.5 Irving Ave. Bam!! OK Emeril I know you grew up just north of here, but good Lord show some restraint when adding seasonings. This thing with just a little more of an increase in percent grade would literally be a wall.
Mile 23.4 Hillside Ave. Cant we just have the hills over with! This little face slapper comes near the end just to keep things interesting.
Make sure you check out the elevation page on this site to get the full picture.
Elevation Map
Marc
USA
- Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 14:56:54 (ET)
Last year, at about mile 21, there was a young boy handing out oreo cookies. I felt so bad at the time that I figured it couldn't hurt, so I took one!
Mike
ri_runner@hotmail.com
South County USA
- Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 10:11:03 (ET)
not lying!! two years ago, there was a family with a lemonade-stand at around fourteenth mile. With half bananas and sports drinks. They made me laugh. Bring those people back.
jon
USA
- Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 19:21:12 (ET)
We are happy to be providing Orange Ultima for all of our fall marathons. It is our best tasting flavor to date. And, yes, we are very different from Gatorade... more like Gatorade before they added the sugar some years ago... or very similar to Exceed, which also used all 5 essential salts/electrolytes....
Seth Bovio
sbovio@ultimareplenisher.com
New York, NY USA
- Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 18:50:17 (ET)
To Laura and All: There are ample porta-lets at the start and one at every other water/Ultima station (there are 14 staions on course) and two at each of the three medical aid stations. This infomation will be detailed in the letter which will go out to every entrant in mid-September and thereafter.
gerry beagan
osm26@ids.net
east greewnwich, RI USA
- Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 17:16:32 (ET)
Are there outhouses or bathrooms along the way? My greatest fear!
Laura
USA
- Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 14:48:59 (ET)
I've done a bit more research into the Ultima issue and I'd like to follow up me previous post:
One of my primary concerns with Ultima was the low carbohydrate content. Ultima has about 4 grams of carbohydrate per 8oz compared to 14 grams of carbohydrate in 8oz in Gatorade. However, Ultima uses only complex carbohydrates, where Gatorate uses simple carbohydrates (sugar). Apparently complex carbohydrates provide more energy (gram for gram) than simple carbohydrates.
Furthermore, the delivery of energy from complex carbs is more even than with simple sugars. (Sugar produces the well-known energy 'peaks' and 'crashes'.
Ultima is also compaible with gels, which means that you can take gel at the same time as a drink of Ultima. You should not take gels and a conventional sports drink simultansoulty, becase the high sugar content of that combination will greatly reduce the rate of gastric emptying, defeating the whole purpose of taking the gel in the first place.
I have had concerns about the taste of Ultima. I've tried it on a few runs and I've had trouble swallowing it. However, on my training runs it's usually stashed in the bushes alongside the road, where it is inevitably warm. I find that when it is cold, the taste is not a problem.
Mike
ri_runner@hotmail.com
South County USA
- Monday, August 25, 2003 at 16:27:40 (ET)
Regarding Ultima: Although I don't like the taste, I can stomach it. I've done some research, and it's a very good hydrator. However, it is not an energy drink like Gatorade or Powerade. It has very low carbohydrate content. If you had planned on using a sports drink as part of your energy strategy you will have to compensate by carrying extra sources of energy. When I asked my local running store about the difference between Ultima and Gatorade, they said "They're basically all the same". They were wrong.
Mike
ri_runner@hotmail.com
South County USA
- Monday, August 25, 2003 at 10:52:39 (ET)
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