Providence, RI - Open XC/Track Scene?

College Running

10 years ago 06/02/2013 5:25pm EDT

Hey all, I'm a devoted distance runner who will be attending college in Providence, RI, this coming fall. Unfortunately, a series of injuries in high school have kept me from posting times close to what the school's coach stipulates for walk ons (4:30, 9:40).

I believe that competition is one of the finest aspects of running, and I don't want to give up the thrill of racing. While there are always 5ks, 10ks, and marathons out there, I would love to take part in a few more Cross Country and Track races before becoming a road rat.

Does anyone from Providence, or Rhode Island in general, have any insight to offer on this count? Are there any XC or track races in which a non-college-affiliated dude can run?

Thanks

10 years ago 06/02/2013 5:31pm EDT

re: Invisible Walrus

When I lived in Providence I ran with RMHP under Bob Rothenberg. Even if you don't want to run with that club I would consider reaching out to him because he is extremely knowledgeable about the running scene in Providence and loves the sport enough that I'm pretty sure he would be willing to help you find what you're looking for.

My old club didn't do XC. I keep telling Bob they should but I don't think most of the club is competitive enough to want to do it. I did an all-comers meet at MIT and it was fantastic. About an hour drive though.

Check

http://www.usatfne.org/

. They usually list the all-comers meets in the area. Also you can run unattached in a lot of college meets.

10 years ago 06/02/2013 6:48pm EDT

re: xenonscreams

The best open CC race in So NE is the Mayor's Cup (usually last weekend of Oct).

I'm sure you've heard/been to Franklin Park but for those that haven't it's 55min's north of Prov and about 15min south of Boston on the Milton line.

http://www.usatfne.org/cross/

10 years ago 06/02/2013 10:34pm EDT

re: Invisible Walrus

Are you going to Brown or PC? Because with those times (granted its the 1600 and 3200 you're talking about) and a little improvement this summer, I would say you have a shot at walking on at PC. Now you probably won't get to race at all until track but you still might have a chance at being a part of a team.

10 years ago 06/02/2013 11:00pm EDT

re: RI

I don't know the situation at Brown, maybe someone else can inform you.

Ray Treacy and Kevin Miles are receptive if you demonstrate improvement. If you have the drive and talent getting to 4:30 and 9:00 (3000) is very manageable. In truth it would be best if you exceeded these times if you don't want to be the slowest man on the team - aim for 4:20 and 8:40.

Attempt to work up to 60-70 mpw with one decent workout a week (maybe alternate between threshold training and speed work) also a long run ~20% of weekly mileage. RIC has a track nearby as well as a local high school.

Potential Races:

CVS 5k in September

Brown indoor invitationals in December

BU's indoor invitationals in January and February

Armory's weekly races on Thursdays (if your hometown is near Manhattan during winter break)

Good luck! FWIW I knew two athletes who walked-on as sophomores.

10 years ago 06/03/2013 4:57pm EDT

re: Former Friar

I really appreciate the information, although I won't be going to PC (a muuch better runner in my conference has that privilege). To clarify: those times are not my PRs, but rather the times suggested to me by the coach at Brown.

I think I'm just going to try to work my butt off. Thanks for the heads up about all those open track races!

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