I realize that what I’m about to write is going to read like an advertisement.

But that’s okay. And maybe it is. Because I love this project. Because I am so thrilled to be a part of it. (And I was not asked to do this writeup and am receiving nothing in return for this post.)

pic from RunTheBluegrass.org

On March 31, Lexington will host the Run the Bluegrass Half-Marathon. I have been blessed to be a part of the RACE Team. I have been privy to the behind-the-scenes work that is going on for this race. This race is a true labor of love for the organizers. The creativity and quality and attention to detail going into this race is amazing. The Run the Bluegrass Half Marathon will truly spotlight the central Kentucky experience. From the food to the awards to the medals to the entertainment, this race will be a great overview of central Kentucky.

pic from RunTheBluegrass.org

This race will not be an easy race, though. The course is new this year and runs through and around Keeneland. It will be difficult to get a PR on this course. But the beauty of running through horse country is worth it. I’ve ran parts of the course and Nathan has ran the entire course twice. The hills are serious, but that’s how we run in Central Kentucky. (More pictures and reviews can be found here.)

my pic of my friend Julie in the back half of the course

I am very excited for this race. I am excited for the experience that awaits me. I am excited for the challenge, for the expo, for the chance to see my part of the world encapsulated in a race experience.

And I’m excited to see this guy cheering me on.

I hope to see you there. In a bib. Handing out water. Putting a medal around my neck.

And if you’re not local? That’s okay. We all know that I tweet on the run. It’ll almost be like you’re there.

For more information, visit RunTheBluegrass.org. There’s so much information there. (You might see a familiar face on 2011′s Most Improved Runners page also.)