An Armchair Quarterback Comments from the Sideline

Have you ever wondered what it takes to put on a marathon? How do you plan the route? How much water should you stock? Do you know how many Port-a-Potties you will need?

These are questions many runners probably never even think about, even in the daze of mile 18 of 26.2 miles (unless said runner was searching for a toilet--ahem).

Jim Chaney is the race director for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon, which also offers a half marathon, team relay, and 5k race. Anyone involved in the running community in Ohio (and even outside Ohio) knows Jim for his active participation in every running group around these parts. He has timed races, organized races, and volunteered at races.I think I’ve seen him at every local race I’ve ever run. Of course, I’ve seen him from WAY BEHIND because he is a pretty fast runner.

Most impressive (to me), he has paced the marathon for Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Just think about that for a second: Somebody who is zen enough to guide a rocker known for being somewhat crazy on- and off-stage must have the capacity to maintain ultimate calm in the midst of race directing. This is my impression of Jim Chaney.

Want to read more? Want to see my picture of Jim Chaney? Click here to read the full post and click here to see the Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon webpage.

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