With just one week to go, first timers and veteran marathoners worry about what to expect on Sunday morning October 21^st. I've composed a list that may ease those butterflies and help you to get the most out of one of the greatest experiences of your life.

The Weekend: Most of you will be attending the expo to pick up you numbers. It's a chance to buy a few things, including marathon souvenirs, and talk with other runners who are as anxious as you are. With the exception of gloves, sunglasses and maybe a hat, runners should wear what they have trained or run other races with. On Friday, make a checklist of what you will need to bring on race morning. Don't forget to bring an extra set of dry clothes that you can drop off at the starting line baggage truck. Lastly, take a drive over the last few miles of the course. It will help you to visualize the finish line when you are getting tired.

Diet: Eat what you normally eat and make sure you do eat. You'll need lots of energy. Find time to share a meal with family and friends who want to offer you encouragement. On race morning eat something that is easy to digest and continue to stay hydrated. Your success in the race will depend far more on all your training miles than what you eat.

Race Morning: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the start. At least an hour beforehand will give you time to get situated. Dress warm; maybe wear an extra shirt at the start that you can throw away later. All your nervous anticipation will disappear once you cross the timing mats. (Please remember: you won't have an official time if you don't cross the starting line mats)

The first miles: You will need the first few miles to figure out your pace. It should be comfortable enough to talk to someone next to you. Save some of the adrenalin and endorphins for later in the race. By the time you reach the flagpole on the southside of Belle Isle you should no longer be wondering why you are doing this to yourself. Forget your split-times, listen to what your body is telling you. Stay relaxed and be patient. Hopefully you've found someone to run with and can share each other's energy.

The middle miles: Your on the long stretch down East Jefferson. Focus on being relaxed. Are your hands clenched too tight or your arms too high? Are you alert enough to see the beautiful high rises and green parks? Squeeze the tops of the water cups to make sure it goes down easily.

The Third Quarter: The good thing is that this is an interesting part of the course. The tough thing is that it usually a time when you hit a bad patch or two. When you start to feel bad it will come and go. The body has a way to rejuvenate itself and help you to push ahead. You will be OK if you know that the rough spots are only temporary.

On to Glory: You can see the finish line in your head and also look back at all the training you did to get you where you are in the moment. Think about wearing the medal around your neck and sharing your accomplishment with loved ones. Most of all think about your own personal achievement. This is YOUR big deal. Congratulate yourself.