Don't worry about the crowd at the start

I know many Half Wits running Indy this weekend have not participated in a large race such as this in the past and it is easy to be concerned about the "crush" of runners at the start.

From experience, I say don't worry about it.

Lining up in your corral and starting this race really won't be too much different than a race like Abe's Amble, except it will take you longer to get across the start line. And remember, this is a chip-timed race. It does not matter how long it takes you to get across the start line, your time won't start until the chip is scanned by the machines at the start line.

I have found that with races like this you always find your own running "space" at the start. You might have to pay a little more attention to runners around you, but it is not like people are scrambling over each other. If you find someone is crowding your space, just back it off or speed it up a little. For the most part, though, runners are a fairly considerate bunch of people when it comes to other runners at races.

Another tip is to stay to one side of the street. It is easier to get around people if you are able to hop up on the curb or sidewalk. Just watch your footing.

The nice thing about these huge races is that it really keeps you from going out too fast. Remember, 13.1. miles is a long way, you have plenty of time out there, so you don't want to go out too fast and then bonk.