When we flip the calendar page to February, it seems that we've turned the corner on winter. It's time for runners to look ahead to spring races.

But why not get ready by running one now?

The Frostbite Five returns for its 24th running after a year hiatus. The race, which will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in Grove City, is runner and race director Mark Courtney's answer to winter's isolation.

In Courtney's words, "Runners run in the winter. Why not race in the winter?"

Courtney will be running in his own event, of course. He always runs. His running streak has stretched to more than 28 years without missing a day and he is training for his 29th consecutive Boston Marathon.

Courtney expects to see many longtime runners at this weekend's race. While no one's in peak racing form, many still want to get together to run fast.

While the event typically attracts 60 to 100 runners, Courtney can't predict how many will show up this year.

"It all depends on the weather," he said. "Some runners will be out no matter what, but other people won't come out if it's snowing or the driving is bad."

Frostbite Five has never been canceled due to weather. The event runs on well-maintained township roads. Slippery footing should not be a problem, but the last mile of the loop course could be windy if winter bluster returns.

No matter what the conditions, runners can warm up after the race in the Grove City College Field House, site of both registration and the awards ceremony.

All finishers will receive a commemorative bandana.

Frostbite Five was formerly part of Courtney's Winter Marathon, which included a Winter Distance Festival day of 5- and 10-mile runs. Courtney plans to bring back the winter series for next year, this time with a half marathon instead of the full 26.2 miles.

Courtney's Runner's High times countless races during the year and Courtney personally directs a few of these events.

His most popular race is the Ice Cream Race in mid-August. This year's running marks the 100th race in Courtney's Mercer County QUAD series.

For information about Frostbite Five, call Courtney at 724-866-1374 or email smc@runhigh.com. You can download a race application or check out other Courtney races at www.runhigh.com.

If you want a few more amenities in exchange for a longer drive, the third annual Frigid 5-Mile, which will be held at 8 a.m. Sunday in Murrysville, is for you.

Frigid 5-Mile, which has a new start-finish location at Dean's Fitness Center, is a romp through scenic neighborhoods over rolling and challenging hills. The event benefits scholarships for Murrysville area track and cross country athletes.

Past Frigid 5 Mile events have attracted nearly 100 runners. Walkers also are welcome, but due to course restrictions, all participants must maintain a 13 minute per mile pace.

All participants receive long sleeved T-shirts and are eligible to win one of many raffle prizes. It also offers a post-race pancake breakfast with music.

You can register for the Frigid 5 Mile at Elite Runners and Walkers in Robinson Township from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday or at 7 a.m. Sunday at Dean's Fitness Center. For information, call 412-490-0881 or email justind@eliterunners.com.

Saturday, 7:30 a.m.: Three Rivers Running Club Group Run, Robinson Township. Meet at former Wickes Furniture store for a run on Montour Trail. 412-490-0881 or www.eliterunners.comSaturday, 8 a.m.: Up-N-Running Group Run, Valencia. 724-898-2525 or www.runpa.comSaturday and Sunday, 8 a.m.: Hot Harry's Group Run, North Park. Run from 7 to 20 miles. Leaves from Lt. Stone Field.Sunday: Slippery Rock University All-Comers Track Meet, Slippery Rock. 724-738-2798Feb. 16, 11 a.m.: Ellport Boro Winter Wonderland 5K, Ellwood City. Help Herb Cratty celebrate his birthday with running and refreshments. 724-758-2506 or bonnherb@yahoo.comFeb. 21, 7:30 p.m.: "Spirit of the Marathon," Cinemark, Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills. Encore presentation of the film. Order tickets online at www.fathomevents.comFeb. 23, 9 a.m.: Spring Thaw, North Park. Choice of 10 miles, 15 miles or 20 miles, with post- run soup buffet. 412-490-0881 or ksmith@eliterunners.comMarch 2, 8:30 a.m.: Mill Creek Distance Classic, Youngstown, Ohio. Hilly half marathon runs through Millcreek Metro Park. 330-727-6070 or rhart829@sbglobal.netMarch 8, 11 a.m.: Katrina's 5K Run, Freedom. Benefits New Orleans hurricane relief. 724-728-2648March 8, noon: Air Force ROTC Arnold Air Society Run to Remember, Morgantown, W.Va. 304-483-1579 or hsealove@mix.wvu.eduSend comments and suggestions to: 435 Cherry Valley Road, Saxonburg, PA. 16056. Phone or fax: 724-352-4395. E-mail: bigp16@connecttime.netPat Neubert is the running columnist for the Butler Eagle