Roma Marathon Checklist

No, that's not the Coliseum behind me more like Arches National Park in Utah but the Coliseum is not that far away. We have just four weeks until our little 26.2 walk around the
Eternal City. Hopefully, your long runs went well this past weekend and now you will begin the tapering process for Rome.

My sister Carolina and I did not finish our 22 miles on Sunday due to the torrential downpour on South Beach. Subsequently, we came up about a mile short but our times were great and even managed to shave off some minutes from the previous week. I do have one question and maybe someone out there has the answer. On both long training sessions, I broke out in hives on my ankles and shoulders. In all my years of training I have never experienced such a reaction and my sister did also. I am using the PowerGels and Bars on the training sessions as well as Gatorade. I have done nothing different nor has Carolina. My doctor today was equally clueless. If you all have any ideas what it could be please let me know.

Now back to our checklist for Rome. First things first. Whatever you are wearing in the race by all means pack it in your overnight bag not your checked luggage. In the event your luggage is delayed or lost you won't have the added pressure of trying to find shoes and clothes to wear in the marathon. Next check the weather before leaving town so you pack the appropriate gear.

Now about that checklist, some items you will carry yourself in a small fanny pack or better yet have family members carry for you and meet you on the route at an assigned mile marker.

• Socks - (at least 3 pairs) one to start the race, one during and one for after the race
• Sunglasses
• ID and money
• Watch
• Hat for the sun or cold
• Sunscreen
• Gloves - plan on throwaways, don't buy anything expensive to wear
• Toilet Paper/Kleenex - it takes up very little space and you will be very happy you brought it
• Vaseline
• Band-aids
• Your own water bottle
• Energy bars and gels
• Disposable camera
• Cell phone - it will come in handy in the event you need to get in touch with your support group during the race
• Wear a t-shirt with you name written on it with a magic marker. It is a great motivator during the race as spectators call out your name to cheer you on.

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