Little Big Races

Standing at the starting line of a mega-race gives you a jolt. You can feel the energy of the crowd, hear the pounding music, and sense the collective anticipation. Boom goes the gun, and off you run, almost floating across the starting line. With luck, that energy will carry you all the way to the finish. Or at least to the next aid station.

Smaller races can't match their mega-cousins with energy. But there's something about their stripped-down essence that connects you to the primal side of running. It's you and the path before you, like it has been for thousands of years. If you choose the right path, that experience can tap into your internal energy, which is every bit as powerful as the energy you borrow from the crowds.

Fall is a great time for small races. There are still some mega races left this year, but look harder at the calendar and find something that stirs you from the inside.

Not sure how to do that? Here are seven tips to help you find your Little Big Race:

1. Bigger isn't always better. Unless you like standing in lines, remember Yogi Berra's famous remark: "No one goes there because it's always crowded." Jump out of line and find the pleasure of the small event.
2. What's so fun about not receiving a finish time? There is a place for 'fun runs' that don't provide finish times, but if you want your time and place, there are plenty of small-event options. Don't be shy about looking for certified courses too. Having an accurately measured course isn't just for the big guys.
3. Don't be afraid to leave the roads behind. Fall is the cross country season, which is a great excuse to run on grass. Several college and high school races include open events. My favorite cross country run, Rocky's Run, is open to all ages and abilities.
4. Go against the tide. Just because your friends are running that race on Thanksgiving Day doesn't mean you have to. Try the Turkey Run the Sunday before Thanksgiving, and sleep in on Thursday!
5. Invite a new runner to join you. Big races can be intimidating if you have never raced before, so invite a budding runner to your favorite small event. Show them the ropes, and watch for their finishing smiles!
6. Look for special perks. Small races tend to have more post-event drawings, more porta-potties per person and more unique freebies. Not sure what they're offering? Ask! You'll probably hear back directly from the race director.
7. If you are done racing for the year, volunteer. Remember all that energy you received from the crowds at the mega-race? You were just borrowing it. It's time to pay it back!

Don't get lost in the crowds. You'll find everything you need at your new favorite Little Big Race. Already have a favorite? Post your comments here or on The Sporting Life Facebook page.