by Sheri Duff

RaceVermont originally was a revenue builder developed by Shelburne Athletic Club owner Rayne Herzog during the summer months when membership numbers typically fell; it has since far exceeded that modest goal. Established in 1998, RaceVermont now is considered the principal organization that promotes running and triathlons for everyone from beginners to elite racers in the state of Vermont.

“When I was in my thirties I was a runner and a triathlete,” said Race Director and owner of RaceVermont Rayne Herzog, “Now I host races and triathlons for others.”

And host races he does. There are 11 scheduled races for 2010. The kick-off event of the season, a spring half marathon, is this Saturday, May 8 beginning at Shelburne Health & Fitness at The Field House at 8 a.m. Limited to 250 participants this year, Herzog expects to turn away interested runners before the official start. To avoid that fate register for the race at www.race vermont.com.

Hosting a race has become second nature to Herzog.

“It takes about 30 people to host a race or triathlon, some of whom are paid,” said Herzog. “I’ve got a lot of new volunteers this year—people from all different backgrounds,” he added, “We’ve got the best of the best.” For his part, Herzog has focused on marketing RaceVermont this year. “In addition to updating the Web site, and bringing new sponsorships on board, RaceVermont is now hosted on other running Web sites throughout the region,” he says proudly. “We are on at least 15 different Web sites.”

Herzog has also become a certified Level I USA Triathlon Director since January. Benefits of the certification include attention to USA Triathlon rules and Regulations, which will make races safer and more organized, as well as greater insurance coverage, results will be posted on the USA Triathlon Web site, with greater national attention for RaceVermont.

More national attention might begin sooner rather than later for RaceVermont. An email from Runner’s World writer John Hanc expressed interest in running the spring half marathon to reach his personal goal of under 1:30 for a half. Although Hanc didn’t commit to writing a story, Herzog is cautiously optimistic about the possibility of increased national interest. It would certainly give a fleet-footed start to the season.

Herzog is already immersed in meeting his next goal. He is committed to becoming a Level II USA Triathlon Director in 2011. “To become Level II certified you have to participate as a race director in a national championship.” Herzog added mischievously, “It just so happens that in August 2011 there will be a National USA Triathlon Championship in Burlington.”

In its twelfth year, RaceVermont has grown from 1,000 participants annually to more than 2,500. Herzog would like to continue building the race numbers, keeping participation high in strong races, and involve more people in running—especially beginners.

A beginner…well that would be me. During our chat, Herzog offered to train me for a 5K at Shelburne Farms in early October. That’s a mere 3.1 miles. I’m seriously considering it. Care to join me?

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