To be a Maniac Marathoner and a Frequent Flyer

As previously mentioned, I’ve been fortunate enough (or crazy enough) to join my passion for running marathons with my passion for travel (and hold down a full time job at the same time).  So now that I’ve added crazy travel into my mix, my mother doesn’t just say “you’re NOT running that marathon, ARE YOU?” on a weekly basis, she now also says “you’re not GOING AWAY this weekend again, ARE YOU?”.  Sorry Mom, I probably am running THAT marathon and I’m probably GOING AWAY.

I belong to a number of running clubs. My local running club is the New York Flyers, a group of runners of all levels who are serious and yet social and supportive. I’ve been a “Flyer” for over 15 years. Its part of me.

I also belong to two “less than sane” (ok… insane) clubs filled with many wonderful, wacky mega-marathoners.

The 50 States Marathon Club is comprised of runners from around the United States (and beyond), who have completed, or are striving to complete, a marathon in all 50 States.  If one time around the 50 States is not daunting enough, try six or seven or eight times!  I’ve only completed “the States” once. Yes, I like these people because they make me look sane. They are also really nice.

Then, there are the Marathon Maniacs. This is a wonderful group of zany runners who give lunacy a new meaning. Look for example at their list of qualifications.  Or the list of levels of membership, beginning with bronze (aka one Star) going all the way to Titanium (10 Stars)!  (I am “only” 6 Stars – Osmium, having completed 16 marathons in 16 states in one year).

I also belong to a small running club in Maine, Crow Athletics.  This group thinks they are crows and greet one another by saying “Caw, Caw.”  Yup, normal.  I also hope to join the 100 Marathon Club one day – perhaps as soon as early next year. Who knows?

finish line at the Great Cranberry Island 50K

I was thinking the other day of the similarities between crazy runners – such as the “50Staters” or “Maniacs” and frequent travelers/flyers, such as those in Milepoint and Flyertalk.  Those who travel the globe to see airports, to see lounges, to do “Mileage Runs” in order to accrue airline miles and thereby increase airline status.  My guess is that the two groups have a lot in common…

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