Distance - This seem obvious, but it depends on when I am running, and how I think training will go. For races like half marathons or marathons, I plan far ahead, or as far ahead as I can. This way I can have a training schedule in mind. 5K-10K are more spur of the moment.
Course - How flat is the course? I can't do hills or trails, no matter how appealing they sound to me. So I look at course and elevation maps. The Holy 10K gave little info, or I would have known part of the course was on trails. Now I know for the next time.
How many? - Is it a big or small race? If I am going to do a 20,000-40,000 person race, it better be a long one. Thousands running smaller distances makes it tougher to spread out on a course. I don't want to be bunched up in a 5K. Also....is there a chance I would finish last? If so....I won't do the race.
Time Limits - some races have course time limits. If it is a pace I can realistically do, then I'll sign up.
Location - I would not run a race in Kansas. I want to run in a place I really want to see. No offense to the good people of Kansas, Nebraska, and most of the South, I just don't want to run there.
Weather - Chances are I won't want to run a marathon in July or August. Shorter runs are ok in summer, but not longer ones. Also...I don't want to run in rain or snow. Yes - I am a weather wimp.
Medal - Is there bling? I like races with medals.
Now I know this is not a scientific method, but it has worked for me.
Charlie
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