If you've run a few races in the US in 2025, this January is the last month for you to claim your Phidippides award, aka Pheidippides. Assuming you are still collecting hardware, and I know not everybody is. Speaking of plaques, I was asked this week why I was still collecting them and, even more importantly, what I was going to do with all them? That got me to think of an idea: since that's wood, why not use them to build a coffin?!! LOL as they say... At least that could make for a cool addition and decorum. Because, granted, I don't see my kids interested in keeping these in a museum!
Anyway, to me this award is quite special: with its name, it feels like we are a small part of the famous Phidippides legend and legacy. And I also like the special attention and consideration for the older age.
As a procrastinator myself, I've waited until this thirteenth month in the past, only to miss the deadline three times over the past 17 years. And it's not that I even needed the points through the Fall to qualify, excess points don't make a difference.
If you run ultras, you'll quickly reach one of the requirements and there is really no gain in waiting for the year to end. As a matter of fact, once you turn 60, the requirements are even 20 to 25% lower. After 80, thresholds are 40 to 25% of the Masters level. But not an excuse to wait until you turn 80, thinking it might get easier...
This past year I submitted 6 races for a Gold plaque in April, to get it done early. Award #13.
Your call to apply but, if so, don't wait for February, just do it now!
1 comment:
I just did it. Thanks
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