Coach's Corner
	NACoA Run for the Children® in the Marine Corps Marathon October 30, 2005 Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why should I do this? • Because it is so much fun! The marathon event itself is an incredible experience!! Whether you are running through Georgetown, or by the Capitol, Union Station, the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, the Pentagon, the Smithsonian Museums or the Kennedy Center, it is truly a beautiful course that has been aptly nicknamed the "Marathon of the Monuments." • Because you can! You’ll have a fabulous experience with us!! Meet new friends, train with other team members, get the support of our coaches, and raise money for a great cause. • It will help 1 in 4 children! The money you raise will go toward education and support to help the children who are impacted every day by alcohol or drug abuse in their families. Your participation in the Run for the Children® will help them deal with the fear, isolation and chaos in their lives. 2. Can I really run or walk 26.2 miles? Yes! We know you can! Many people have this concern when they sign up, but our experienced coaches and weekly training runs will guide you throughout your training. You will achieve success by increasing your mileage slowly, under the guidance of knowledgeable coaches along with others experiencing the training with you. 3. When do I train? • Our coaches will put together a schedule for you so that you can train on your own. For those living in the Washington, DC area, you are encouraged to run with our scheduled groups each weekend with experienced trainers. • We will email you tips and helpful hints each week. 4. Who else can help me? Christina Pitts, an experienced marathoner, and Dr. Paul Robinson, a marathon trainer, are our national coaches. They are available by email or telephone for advice about training. Christina writes a monthly newsletter full of helpful tips. 5. How much am I expected to raise? You will need to raise $1000 after you pay the $100 registration by October 15, 2005. 6. Is it hard to raise the money? Not at all!!! NACoA will provide you with fund raising materials, tips and ideas, with lots of support along the way. We will send you a complete packet with sample fund raising letters, return envelopes, and other materials to help you get started. The best ways to raise the money are: • A personal letter writing campaign to friends, family and co-workers. Writing about your commitment to the cause and your training efforts in preparation are compelling ways to inspire people to support you. • Have your own web page through the Run for the Children®, and e-mail your friends and family members with a link to your personal page, which we will set up for you. • Approach companies that you know, including your employer. Ask about matching gifts and encourage your friends to do the same for you. • Remember, you are not asking for yourself. Once people understand why you are running or walking, they will be happy to support you. (They may even want to join in the fun!) 7. Are there any other incentives? Yes! The first Marine Corps participant to raise $5,000 will win a free trip to our WALT DISNEY WORLD® Marathon Weekend event from January 6-8, 2006, in Orlando, Florida. This includes air fare, 3 nights’ accommodations at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, a premiere hotel, entry into the WALT DISNEY WORLD® full marathon on January 8 or half marathon on January 7, and participation in all TEAM NACoA meals and activities with other Run for the Children® participants. For more information, please visit the NACoA web site at www.nacoa.org, email us at marathon@nacoa.org, or call toll-free at (888) 55-4COAS.