I am originally from Newfoundland and still have family there my sister is an avid marathoner and triathelete and there are a number of groups that train together there. As best I can tell they like to travel and some of them have participated in international marathons. I think most of the members in these groups are close to or over 50 years of age I was home to Newfoundland this past summer and participated in the 81st running of the Telly 10 a huge running event by Newfoundland standards (close to 3000). I had been talking up Richmond to my sister and some of her friends there and brought along a bunch of entry forms for the Richmond Marathon. At present there are at least 7 coming for the marathon and probably another one or two for the half. They have researched the Richmond Marathon web site and like the course(flat) and obviously the average temperatures has its appeal as well. The fall in Newfoundland is weather perfect for training for a marathon and the size of the field was a good attraction rather than a big city with 30,000 runners. The photo journey of the route on line at the Times Dispatch was a selling point as well. The Marathon web site gives the impression to them that Richmond is a very welcoming city for the participants in this event I have indicated my interest in this event to my friends there and they are interested in visiting Richmond and getti ng a chance to see this city.

I am hoping to do some tourist like trips with them when they are here.

I know that as a group they are looking forward to the trip here.

Weldon…I have about 26 more years to live before I hit 50….

Less than a month to go now. We are all really excited for this marathon. Hoping for cool conditions (By Newfoundland cool standards that is!)

Hi everyone. I’m one of the people coming from Newfoundland to run the marathon. As far as I know, there are eight of us coming for the race, with many of us hoping to qualify for Boston. Weldon has really promoted the event and the city to all of us so we are looking forward to enjoying all that Richmond has to offer.

We think the course and temperature will be a bonus. Look forward to meeting many new runners and friends and of course enjoying Weldon’s hospitality.

Very interesting article.  I hope the group does come from Newfoundland and joins in the marathon in Richmond.  I am sure they will enjoy their stay there especially with Weldon as a guide.