Hey! A 3-ring circus like a racewalking clinic doesn't happen on its own. A great racewalking clinic needs a great host/hostess. The host takes care of the "on-the-ground" stuff that I couldn't possibly do myself:
Finding a track and classroom—usually a "real" classroom in a school, gym, office, hospital, running store, REI, etc., but sometimes just a big living room in a home with a TV;
Helping to promote things locally through fliers at races, newspaper announcements, contacting the local running and walking clubs, etc;
Collecting "paper" registrations from participants—although most registrations these days come to me through my online entry portals.
For this, the host gets a free clinic for him/herself (and my undying gratitude and that of the participating walkers!)
I charge $195 a head (for early birds), $225 within two weeks, for a 2-day clinic (Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). I take all of my expenses out of that (airfare, etc.). If at all possible I usually stay with the host or at another participants house to cut down on my expenses, but it's certainly not a deal-breaker if that can't be arranged.
I need a minimum of 12 paid participants to get my plane ticket (although I like to shoot for 20+, with a maximum of 32. If we get over ~24 I try to bring in an assistant or two.) To get a cheap airfare I try to book 2-3 weeks out, so it's important to start promoting early. A lot of participants will find you via my web site, but about half will usually come from the local area. If you think you have enough racewalkers, power walkers, and marathon walkers in your area to support a clinic, drop me an email!
Things to do:
After settling on a date, Dave will create a pdf registration form/flier, and set up online entry. Get the word out! Drop some forms at the local running store and health clubs., etc., but one-on-one contact with local walkers at races is the best way to promote the clinic.
Send the registration form and a press release to the local papers and try to arrange for a story on racewalking to help stir up interest!
Check on a local track and arrange for a classroom. As long as the track doesn't have a track meet or football/soccer game on it on clinic weekend, we don't necessarily need to reserve exclusive access. In most cases we just "walk on" which will reduce a lot of red-tape.
Depending on clinic size, the classroom can be a living room in the host's home, or a classroom in a school, gym, hospital, running store or other business.
Arrange for a host hotel (most hotels will provide a discount and sometimes a conference room!) or a list of local hotels with rates.
Create a map with locations of the track and classroom, in relation to hotels.
Be creative! Every location is different. Take advantage of local businesses and other local attractions to put your own stamp on the clinic. Trumpeting the unique qualities of your local area will help bring in out-of-town walkers.