The Boston Marathon has been part of America longer than baseball's World Series. Traditionally held on the third Monday of April, it receives more requests for media credentials than any other single event except the Super Bowl.

This year 346 athletes have qualified to represent Michigan at the Mecca of marathons. Two from our state represent unique quests and have been part of this ultimate experience.

Greg Meyer, who set the record for the fastest first timer marathon at the Detroit Free Press Marathon in 1980 with a 2:13:07, was the last American to win Boston. He did it in just his second try in 1983. But he came with great credentials. A four time All American at U of Michigan and a seven-time winner of the Old Kent River Bank Run, he also moved to Boston and was trained and coached by some of the best in the business to capture the laurel wreath. For Greg, it was the pinnacle of his career. While it created all kinds of opportunities and raised his stature to a whole new level it also raised the expectations for him. The eerie calm that came over him as he crossed the winners tape he later learned would send him on a downward cycle as he tried to capture the success again. As Greg put it, "People thought of me as a marathoner because of what I accomplished at Boston. If I had listened to myself, I would have raced as a middle distance runner and been a lot more patient with my career."

For Flint's running storeowner, Mark Bauman, the Boston Marathon takes on a whole different perspective. 2001 will be his 32^nd straight trip to Massachusetts Patriot's Day celebration. It was the first marathon he completed, although it wasn't recorded. He claims he pinned his number 969 upside down and couldn't get the officials to recognize his mistake. In 1970, this would have been understandable. The race was not the professionally organized event that it is today. Up until 1975, the race was small enough that athletes were required to enter Hopkinton's gymnasium for a physical before the race. Aid stations and mile markers were a chance happening of a supportive fan and only the top 100 were rewarded with medals for running the race.

For Mark, Boston has meant taking a vacation with his running buddies. He organizes a personal bus ride to the start and a pasta dinner in the Italian section the night before the race. Years ago it was an opportunity to sell t-shirts before licensing and big marketing took over. It was also remembered for his personal best. One hundred mile training weeks paid off with a 2:30:32 in 1975. Over the last 30 years it has kept him motivated to train through our tough winters. The 100^th running in 1996 is among his favorites. Not for his performance but for his participation in the largest starting field in the history of marathoning. Over 38,000 toed the line, many of whom made it to the finish to be able to take home the keepsake medal. The field is now limited to 15,000.

Unique to marathoning is Boston's requirement to meet a qualifying time. Each age group has a standard that must be met to be able to compete. It not only adds to its prestige but also is a boon to other marathons around the country who's courses are promoted as a great place to qualify. The flat fast course in Detroit has helped many runners get to Boston. Mark has run every one of the Free Press's 23 marathons. A feat that shows he has been blessed with few injuries.

It is Boston's knowledgeable and exuberant crowds that have inspired him to come back every year. Few marathons seem to provide a feeling of historical significance when you participate here. The local papers are filled with stories of past winners and their battles. Everyone runner and shop owner is excited about what is about to take place. It is truly an event embraced and loved by its hosts, participants and legends.

Tip of the Week: Many runners train at too fast a pace. To get the most from your workouts focus on your endurance through more distance and it will improve your speed.

Race of the Week: Coming up on 4/22; West Bloomfield Half Marathon, 10:30am contact the W.B. Parks and Recreation 248 738-2500 or http://www.runmichigan.com/westbloomfield/