Rest Day = Research Day

Yesterday I took body measurements.  They are nothing that I will be sharing.  Mystery leaves others wanting... or so I have heard.

Today is a rest day.  I started the morning off with a few yoga poses, lots of stretching and a call from the massage man.  Well, the masseur that was recommended, is THE masseur for the national soccer team here.  So, he's good - but he also got called to go traveling with them.  So, the massage will have to be put off until after 1 April.  I may go to someone else before he returns.  That left me with some time on my hands today.  So - Google was on the agenda. 

Search Term:  International Marathons

First race that is definately up for consideration:  Ronhill Connemara International Marathon in Ireland.  The reviews seem to fit perfectly with the type of experience that I want to have.  (http://www.connemarathon.com)  The race for 2013 is in just a few weeks.  But this is a definite consideration for 2014 or 2015.

Another one that peaked my interest was the Rock-n-Roll Marathon in Oslo, Norway.  There is just something about all those Scandanavian countries that just seems almost mystical to me.  It is probably more about my love of water and all those fjords that appeals to me. (http://no.competitor.com/oslo/)  The only thing about this race that makes me hesitate is that it was suppose to happen in 2013, but has been postponed until 2014, noting "...We recognize that we need more time to create an entirely new event to the high standards established by the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series and expected by our local community partners..."  Just makes me hesitate a bit.  It is one I will have to watch and continue to read about.

Then there is Switzerland.  To me, Switzerland is a country I could get lost in for the rest of my life - and I would love it.  However, I have never been to Switzerland.  A trial run would help me decide if I really like Switzerland!  (http://zurichmarathon.ch/index2010_e.php)  Zurich is a possibility.

Germany has a number of marathons.  Oh - the reasearch and decissions... 

I see Penang, Malaysia has one for this fall.  It spans the bridges of Penang.  This might be a good one to get my feet wet again. On second thought - Are they nuts??? 2 AM START TIME???!!!  I do not see that as a good option.  Oh, maybe the half marathon will be at a better time.... oh, great - 3:15 AM??!!  The reviews from last year aren't that great either.... hmmmm.....