Event Hosting Etiquette? Conflicts with other runs...

I think the Flash events are WAY COOL and that I think that if someone is running and wants to have partners that's awesome! If someone can't make an official FA event (due to time, location etc) and they still are able to run then why not do a loosely organized FLASH where less commitment is required? The main goal is to get outside, enjoy the scenery and one another! See you at the FA Mtn Hwy Madness tomorrow for a lap or two! Cheers, Adventure Mike

I think Flash Events are just fun ways to see new trails and find running partners. People may not be able to go to one Flash... but they can make it to the other. Or have been wanting to do a particular trail for months and hesitate to do it alone. It's very generous of a Flash Host to post and say ok, here's someone that's going, you're welcome to come along. Let's schedule as many Flash Events as we can - get everyone out running together.

Ean is up to his armpits in work, but I ran this by him and he agrees with Berglind and Bill (he hasn't seen your comments). 

We had a similiar conflict last week were Geoff had posted his Fluffy Bunny Take 2 as a Flash. He wanted company on a long tough training run, but given that it was the Walk in the Park weekend and a long weekend, there wasn't much interest from the few people who could keep up with Geoff and the Fluffy Bunny.  Cheryl had planned to run the First Half Kneeknacker and I suggested to post it as a Flash. So, we stepped on Geoff's toes...sorry, Geoff.  Geoff took in in strides and joined the girls on the Black Mountain grind....which reminds me: Did you get that bathroom cleaned, Geoff?  We all had a good laugh when we read the note you left at my car.  Thanks for letting us know, we were wondering if you would continue eastward or call it a day...Hope your roomie works out and likes cleaning bathrooms.

It's tough to squeeze in events when the calendar is so full. Personally, I would try to avoid hosting events on the same day especially if it conflicts with an inaugral running of a scheduled (ie. non-flash) event. Event hosts have plenty of challenges in their first year and put in alot of effort to ensure their event goes smoothly. Ultimately, the decision to host a flash or scheduled event, regardless of timing or conflicts, is completely up to you - all members of CFA are encouraged to host. PS. the weekend of Sept 22-23 is completely free! :-)

FWIW, I'd be against organizing an event -- Flash or not -- on the same day as another CFA event in the same area.

Hi Curb,

Thanks for asking.  I'll copied Berglind in the original email, but I also put this up on the forums as other Event Host and members may have some thoughts on this.  Berglind is not only the Event Host for the Sunshine in September this Saturday, but also the Event Host Chair. 

I think it's nice that we try not to step on each others toes - and I certainly try very hard not to conflict with other non CFA races.  In the end though, it may be tough to avoid conflicts, especially as we are seeing more flash events.  I tend to think that you'll attract a different crowd for a Hanes Valley run than for the Sunshine in September... so, personally, if this is the only possible weekend, I'd say go ahead. (you'll also be conflicting with the lovely Mountain Highway Madness Ean hosts on Sunday)

What do you think, Berglind?  Other Event Hosts, members?

Sibylle