Grand Prix Page

Setting the standard for road races in Kansas City
What is the Grand Prix and what does it do for runners or directors?  
Current Grand Prix Results are Here 2012 Schedule is Here

1) The history of the Grand Prix? The history of the Grand Prix goes back almost as far as Mid America Running Association (MARA) itself. Initially it began with only an Open Category …not many older ages and no women. Now it offers categories of 5 years from 20-24 through 90+.

2) Criteria for the race to become a part of the Grand Prix for race directors, how to apply. A race must be willing to donate 6 waived entries to the Grand Prix coordinator to pass on to GP winners. It must also be held on a USATF certified course. It is expected to have adequate volunteers for safely and organization, not conflict with dates of other GP races, have a reasonable cost of entry, and have 5 year age groups, at least through 70+. Other amenities, such as adequate finisher refreshments and course aid stations, porta-potties, well-marked course, a website with online registration are considered positive aspects of a well-run race
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3) Benefits to the runners who take part and who win their division and/or Benefits to the directors and to the events they organize. The benefits to the races includes the year round promotion of being part of the only competitive running circuit in the KC area, gaining added entries from runners who wish to compete on the circuit, and knowing that a well-run race is going to garner added word of mouth promotion through the GP and its participants. The Grand Prix hopefully, helps race directors set a higher standard for their events, such as with course certification and various expectations.

(Thanks to Mike Lundgren, Jane Tompkins and Steve Daley for this information)

Current Editor Dina Myers

2012Grand Prix Schedule

2012 Grand Prix Standings

2012 Grand Prix Rules

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