Donna, 2023 Plans, & Update
In today’s update, we’re answering some questions we’ve received regarding the upcoming Donna Marathon weekend and sharing some future plans for 2023.
Donna Weekend
Will there be a Zeal table at the Expo?
Not this year. We are running a lean operation, which means keeping our overhead down and it is not inexpensive to have an official presence at the Expo. We will get there for future events!
Will there be a ‘shakeout’ run on Saturday?
Due to the location and route changes this year, we’ve decided our best opportunity for a shakeout run is the 5k on Saturday. Those interested who are not registered for the 5k can still register at https://runsignup.com/donna23/signup. Not interested in a fun 5k? Come cheer!
I’m not staying at the hotel with the Zeal room block. Can I come to the dinner?
Yes! We know there are many who are local or secured lodging elsewhere - ALL will be welcome to attend the dinner.
How do I sign up for the dinner? What is the cost?
We are finalizing the “Zeal Meal” (yes, that’s its name!) details and cost. It will be buffet style with options to please nearly any palate. The cost will be determined by our final cost from the event/caterer. We are not looking to make money here, just get us all together!
Tickets will be for sale online prior to the event. It will be critical to have an accurate headcount in advance, so ticket sales will close prior to the event. Stay looped into these updates to be sure you don’t miss out!
Will there be a post-race “after party”?
We have looked at options for gathering at a local restaurant or other outdoor space after the race. However, we know folks will be finishing their races at all different times and some will be traveling home in the evening. Challenging! If we figure out a good option, you will know. Either way, I know some Zebras who plan to cheer in their friends so look for stripes at the finish line!
Other 2023 Plans?
We love running and we love events and when you put that together, we have BIG future plans. We’re talking different events at different locations each year, but we’re going to start modest in 2023 with a few events that may be familiar to some of our Zebras.
Feb 4-5: The Donna Marathon Weekend (Jacksonville, FL)
July 4th: The Peachtree Road Race (10k in Atlanta, GA)
Fall 2023: TBD
While these are events we hope to have an official Zeal presence at, our coaches and friends will be attending many other events throughout the year! Stay connected with us here and in our Facebook community and hopefully we’ll see you at some 2023 events!
But…what about the app?
We hear you: you’re ready. In our hearts, we’re ready too. We promise the technology is catching up to us. This is a marathon, not a sprint. As many experienced runners know, even the BEST race day plans are subject to changing weather, winds, the unexpected hill, tummy distress, that random blister/cramp/headache, etc. So what do we do? We modify, and keep moving. Forward is forward. My pace, my peace. We WILL get to our finish line. When we reach the final mile of this ‘race,’ we will ring the cowbells and hope you join us to celebrate.
Then, in true runner style, we’ll immediately plan our next ‘race.’
