True, but didn't the primaries/caucuses start much later in 1980 than they will in 2012? I really do think that September is pretty much the latest anyone can get it with a realistic chance.
IMHO the only reason to be in the race this early is to gain name recognition. Palin’s name recognition is 97%-98%. There is no upside for her to be in the race right now slogging it out with the also rans.