Guaranteed Entry NYC Marathon 2009

Below is an email informing me of my acceptance into the NYC Marathon for 2009, if I apply.

So I finally get to the point where I have reconciled that maybe its time to hang up the marathon running, and here I get this email telling me I can have the NYC Marathon, if I want it.

Every morning when I get out of bed, my body gives me a loud reminder that my bones and muscles have aged. Common sense tells me to let this running opportunity slide; especially since I have done 2 NYC Marathons before, 2004 & 2005.

But on the other side of my brain, I hear these tempting thoughts: "If you train smart, drop a few pounds and by the way, you do have 8 months to prepare ..."

Friends are a rip. They will say: "go ahead, do it!" Of course they don't even walk much more than a couple of miles, let alone, have ever done a marathon.

This is not going to be an easy decision. I'm not even sure I have what it takes anymore. It's the kind of challenge, though, that might have value for me and those around me in dealing with these tough times. On the other hand, don't I have enough to deal with as is? The other thing is I am just getting back to 100% from injuries and know how too much training could bring on more injuries again.

I also don't want to lose the joy and pleasure I get from my running; training can really take the fun out of running. I am going to really have to think this one through carefully. And may need a lot of support from my friends. Fortunately, I have some time to make up my mind.

February 25, 2009 Congratulations IRA BELLACH! You're eligible for guaranteed entry to the most spectacular marathon in the world, the ING New York City Marathon 2009, on Sunday, November 1. To claim your guaranteed entry, you must apply. For complete instructions to guide you through the application process, click here. To claim your guaranteed entry, apply by May 1, 2009. Click here to apply online now. If you've already applied to the 2009 marathon, there is no need for you to apply again. Unable to Compete? If you know you can't make it on November 1, and you want to extend your guaranteed entry to 2010, please follow these steps: Apply and pay for your guaranteed entry by May 1, 2009. Once you've applied to the 2009 race, you can cancel your entry by following the instructions on our website. If you cancel your entry by October 31, 2009, you'll be eligible for guaranteed entry next year. You will not be guaranteed a spot in the 2010 marathon unless you follow the correct application and cancellation process this year or qualify for guaranteed entry by another official method. Contact reghelp@nyrr.org with your questions or concerns, and include your name and date of birth in the e-mail. We look forward to running with you on the streets of NYC at this year's marathon and in the future! To make travel arrangements for the 2009 marathon, click here for information from Anthony Travel or call 800.736.6377 to speak with a travel expert. To join NYRR, or renew your membership, visit nyrr.org/membership. As always, we welcome your input about all NYRR programs; please see nyrr.org/contactus for contact information. Copyright ©2009 New York Road Runners, 9 East 89th Street, New York, NY 10128