Funny guy! The turtle training reference is actually not from UMD (though I am indeed alumnus). I also like to race sailboats and my boat (which I just sold in October) was called "Truculent Turtle". Given that and my clydesdale status as a runner, Turtle seemed to fit.
But, to your point, Pittsburg sounds like a great run. I'm actually out in Annapolis, so it's an hour further. I was looking around for a marathon in early May, so I'll consider this. Thanks for the heads up!
I'm not sure why I think you're from MD (MCM 07? Turtle-Terp!- Training?) but don't forget Pittsburgh is coming back May 3rd. From Montgomery County, it's an easy 3, maybe 3 1/2 hour drive. The race has been small in the past- a few thousand runners- which means there will be less crowding than a big race like MCM, and the committee is trying to make a really big comeback this year. Plus, the course, while hilly in places, will be pretty (Downtown, Pitt and CMU campuses, gorgeous neighborhoods with big, beautiful, old historic houses) and there is a long down hill to the finish (roughly mile 24 on). Just wanted to plant the seed! Plus, a lot of MCM 07 and 08ers will be there
Good luck at B&A! Hope you PR