Nashville is getting ready to Rock N’ Roll!
The St. Jude Rock N’ Roll Marathon and ½ Marathon are coming up in Nashville on Saturday, April 30th. That means that there are thousands of people across the country that are training to run through the streets of Music City. They've worked hard to train for their first marathon ever. Or maybe they're on their 7th marathon and they're completely addicted to the challenge and determined to run a race in every city. Either way, a marathon is a huge deal!
We did a short Q&A with Nashville runner, triathlete, and running coach, Daniel Hudgins (@djneighbor) and he was gracious enough to give us a sneak peek into race day here in Nashville from the perspective of a local, tried and true runner.
Q. How many times have you participated in the half or full marathon here in Nashville?
A. It'll be my 6th Nashville full. I did run the half once in 2014.
Q. What’s the hardest part about Nashville’s race versus other cities?
A. The weather is often the hardest part compared to other cities. 4 of the last 7 years it's been quite warm. Ideal running conditions are 50-55 degrees. Anything above 60 causes you to slow by at least 10 seconds a mile every 10 degrees. You'll slow by a percentage with the faster runners being less affected by it and the slower runners being more affected. The temperature has climbed to the mid 80s by the time some people are just over halfway through.
Q. What’s your favorite part about it?
A. The crowds of people that come and watch are my favorite part. I feel like this is a homecoming of sorts.
Q. Is there anything that you can’t live without on race day?
A. I can't live without my Swiftwick zero socks. I've never gotten a blister and I think I've worn them for every race (and almost every run) since 2011.
Q. Do you have any advice for runners that will complete the race for the first time this year?
A. To the first timers, be careful not to get caught up in the crowd and run on feeling alone. Stick to your race plan. It will take a toll if you run too quickly in through music row and 12th South. Enjoy it all as you have the most crowd support through there, but remember how far you still have to go!
Do you know someone running the Nashville Rock N’ Roll marathon or ½ marathon this year? They deserve something that says, "We're crazy proud of you and so amazed by your drive and determination." Something that says, “Good luck, friend! You’re amazing!”
We created a Runner’s Gift Box with things that they’ll need before, during, and after the race to be at the top of their game.
We’ll include a personal, handwritten note of your choice with every gift. Let them know how proud you are of them with a thoughtful gesture that’s sure to cheer them all the way to the finish line.
Good luck to everyone running! Go get ‘em!