Here's an idea for the 9/30 wildcard track workout, courtesy of Patricia and Rob (looks tough, might only work for people who do weight work regularly)... http://www.runningplanet.com/training/10K-circuit-workout...

I love the way you think! I am RSVP'ing for this one.

Just realized that this workout is two days before a team points race (Half Marathon). Maybe we could try the 10K circuit on a Tuesday at the reservoir?

For 9/30 workout, the plan is to revisit a workout last done by the Whippets back in January: 2 miles at half marathon pace, jog 800 easy, 2 x 1mile at half marathon pace minus 5 sec/mile, jog 400 easy after each, 2 x 800 at half marathon pace minus 10 sec/mile, jog 200 easy after each. Idea is to have the discipline to only SLIGHTLY speed up as you shorten the intervals, ensuring the body runs comfortably at half marathon race pace to prep for Grete's Gallop.

Awesome workout plan, Scott. Of course I say that now with the workout over a week away. Good idea to prep for Gallop though.

Are these workouts ok for a beginner like me? Not sure if I can do all the "sets".

Hi Anne! I definitely think this type of workout is okay no matter what level you are. If I wasn't up to all the sets I would do what I could at the appropriate speed and then "jog" some laps.

Thanks Patricia! Will definitely join group for Next weeks (1st thursday) runs and I'll do what I can! :)

I think showing up is more than half the battle! Let your initial training runs w/ us build upon their own momentum and yes, like the cliche goes, this is all about a learning experience. Looking forward to meeting you!

Just to echo Patricia's sage advice: These workouts will help runners at all levels of experience! Come join us, Anne, and everyone else should come too. You will be able to moderate your intensity and still get a great deal of benefit from this track work. (It's smart not to overdo these workouts, especially when you're still building up a base level of fitness.)

We're supposed to have horrendous weather tomorrow night so keep an eye out for emails from us with updates.

I am a newbie to training also, so Anne, thanks for asking the question that I was thinking and thanks everyone for responding!