Last week’s TNRL crew after racing at Liberty Park. From left, Pat Krott, Renee Uht, Meghan Linsted, Karen Groshek, DJ Smith. Photo blatantly ripped off Karen Groshek (who I’m sure won’t mind, right Karen?).

The Tuesday Night Race League is back. (Actually, it was back last week, but I missed that).

From Jim Lang, of the Big White Trailer, who puts on the TNRL each week:

Who -

Me, you, and anyone else that wants to get out

What -

An opportunity to get out and run a “race” at various locations in Erie County. There will be at least one REAL race this summer, perhaps more. They will be announced well in advance.

When -

Tuesday Nights, 7:00 pm. Mid April to Mid September or Early October

Where -

Locations throughout Erie County.

Why -

Why not? This is an opportunity to get out, run a different race every week, and generally have a good time.

Afta-Afta

It’s what happens afta the race. If you don’t get the reference, check out “The Karate Kid“. Mr. Miyagi is a real hero here.

So, it basically works like this.

Jim picks various locations all over Erie County and plots an informal course for runners to “race.” (I put that in quotes because while it’s called the “race” league — some of us just show up to run with other people).  There is typically a shorter distance (3 to 4 miles) and longer distance (5 to 6) for you to choose from.

It’s very informal (Sometimes you will finish & write down your own time if Jim’s out running.) It’s basically to have fun and run in different places with friends.

There’s no cost to participate in the TNRL events and, so, there are no t-shirts, race refreshments, etc., though Jim typically brings water and the other racers bring beer or whatever (depending on the location, of course).  There are a few TNRLs that have a “real race” option in which you pay & get a shirt, etc. But, you don’t have to — you can just do the race TNRL-style for free (no shirt, no entry into the TNRL race series results).

Why participate?

1. It’s a fun way to get some mid-week speed work in.

2. It’s also a good way to get to know some other runners.

3. It’s refreshing to race somewhere other than Presque Isle.

Here’s the schedule for May:

• May 8, 2012 – Pleasant Ridge Park – Fairview – Around the block.  This time, the courses will be well marked. 3.8 miles and 5.02 miles
• May 15, 2012 – North East Cherry Runs – Gibson Park, North East.
• May 22, 2012 – Waterford – NOT the 5k. West side of Waterford Square. Intersection of W North Park Row and Walnut Street. Short Course – Long Course
• May 29, 2012 – the Race in the Park – This is a real pay-to-play race, as well as the traditional TNRL “free” race.  Harborcreek Community Park – 5800 Firman Rd, Harborcreek, PA 5k Race, 3.2M and 6.2M