NOTE: More info, websites, e-mails, applications, coverage etc. to appear in the magazine, on the website and in the 2003 NER Annual Calendar. So for now, here's the basics.

March 30, Sunday - Winner's Circle April Fools Spring Classic 4M, Salisbury, MA

Flat & Fast 4M jaunt hosted by the club that sprang from the bar, and springs back for post-race festivities. Great hosts, great roadhouse, great time.

Go to Winner's Circle homepage for addt'l info.

April 13, Sunday - Doyle's Cafe Emerald Necklace 5M, Jamaica Plain, MA

The one, the only, est. in 1882 and the "Cornerstone of the Pub Series" since the Series' inauguration in 1998. The course is almost entirely within Franklin Park. Music by the Sons of Finnian, Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums. Dual parties inside and out. The Annual Pub Series Award party is held in the Fitzgerald Room in December.

July 13, Sunday - Khoury's Summer Steamer 4.13M, Somerville, MA

Moved from June to July to add more sizzle. You can still here echoes of machine gun blasts from the now defunct Winter Hill Gang as you climb Winter St. in the first mile. Hosted by the Somerville Road Runners and run out of Khoury's State Spa. Boffo post-race festivities in funky, gritty Somerville with tres cordial hosts.

August 28, Thursday - Harpoon Brewery Jimmy Buffet 4.4M, Cambridge, MA

NEW to the Pub Series and officially billed as a "Theme race and party" put on by B.A. Productions (Hyannis Marathon/Half, Last Nite 5K, Big Man, etc.) in collaboration with Harpoon and run out of the Marsh Post on the banks of the Charles. Music, food and summer frivolity by the muddy, meandering Charles River.

September 28, Sunday - Ollie Classic 5M - Boston, MA

NEW to the Pub Series. New digs on Boston's waterfront for this venerable classic (63rd year). Run out of the FleetPavilion concert venue (restrooms, tents, concert amenities). Prize $, bonus $, team $. Post-race festivities sponsored by Harpoon Brewery. Hosted by the Hurtin' For Certain Striders. Awesome views of Boston skyline & Harbor.

October 19, Sunday - Paddy-O's Shillelagh Shuffle 3M, Newton, MA

NEW to the Pub Series. Flat & extremely fast course. Appropriately, Olympian Sinead Delahunty and Kieron Tumbleton received the winner's shillelaghs in last year's inaugural race. Post-race block party, great food and music supplied by Paddy-O's Irish Pub. A great finale.