Race Options

For those who are interested in racing (but not marathoning) there are several races coming up soon that are just a short drive away. I have mentioned many of these before, but some are new to the list. Every where you look there are new races, and some old races you probably did not know about. Running races is a great way to stay focused on your running without getting bored of the same things day after day. You don't need to enter to try and win, and even to "race" it. Just get out there to enjoy it.

03/17 Run for the Oaks 5k - Raleigh, NC

This local race begins at City Market, and drew 891 runners last year. The 5K is the first race of the day starting at 9:30 a.m. The kid's run for children ages 10 or younger begins at 10:15 a.m. The course, which is generally considered Raleigh's fastest 5K course, starts and finishes at the City Market. There will be water at the start and finish plus a water stop at the ½-way point. Splits will be called each mile.

03/24 The Great Human Race 5k - Durham, NC

This is a charity event benefiting nonprofits throughout the Triangle. Runners are encouraged to stay near the finish line when the race is over and cheer on the walkers at the end of the nonprofit portion of the event. There will be refreshments and activities for everyone following the race. The 5K course begins at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Downtown Durham, North Carolina.

03/31 Monument Avenue 10k - Richmond, VA

Enjoy the rockin’ music and imaginative cheers from the Spirit Groups along the scenic, tree-lined medians. Soak in the cheers from thousands of partying spectators. Celebrate people watching at its best as costumed runners and walkers mingle amongst the 24,000 participants. Then join the awesome post race party in Monroe Park. It’s all part of the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k, voted the best road race in the southeast!

03/31 Cooper River Bridge 10k - Charleston, SC

The Cooper River Bridge Run provides a world-class 10-K foot race. The race promotes continuous physical activity and a healthy lifestyle through education and opportunity. The Cooper River Bridge Run is the best organized and the best conducted 10-K race in the world. It includes world-class competition in a unique setting with unparalleled participant satisfaction. It broadens community cooperation and participation in healthy events throughout the year. The Cooper River Bridge Run serves as a model of health motivation for other communities throughout the world.

04/14 Cary Road Race - Cary, NC

10k, 5k, and a 1 mile fun run. Last year over 550 runners finished the races. The 5k and 10k start at different times, so you could run them both if you were interested.

For even more races, check out the North Carolina Road Runners Club. If you plan to run a race, or would like to share one of your favorites, use the comment feature for this post.