7 Amazing Bucket List Races

June 25, 2015
We’re officially in the height of racing season here in the northern hemisphere. With amicable temperatures and mild weather (most of the time), training is easier, there’s more daylight to work with, and most excuses to be lazy and shove copious amounts of food in our faces are unfounded (hello, hibernation? — non-existent during summer!).
Having said that, there are some phenomenal races that you should consider for the remainder of 2015, or to put on your calendar for 2016. In no particular order, they are:

I’m touting this one for obvious reasons — reason #1, it’s in my ‘hood. Reason #2, hello, Rock Hall! Who doesn’t like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?! And reason #3, I’m a race ambassador. Which means I get to tell you how awesome the course will be. And believe me, the course is going to be rockin.’ (See what I did there?) 

Iron Horse Half Marathon – Midway, KY
I happened upon Iron Horse last year. I actually received a coupon code in my virtual goodie bag from the Cleveland Half Marathon last year, and the flyer just looked so darn appealing, I had to do it. Horses? Check. Beautiful countryside? Check. I was in — hook, line and sinker. And I must say, this is hands down my favorite race of all time. Set in the heart of horse country in Midway, KY, the scenery is unparalleled and the small field (capped at 1,800) makes it feel like you’re on a run with a few of your closest friends. I highly recommend this race.

BolderBOULDER 10K – Boulder, CO 
This is a race that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Fun, laid back, and in the Rockies, the BolderBOULDER 10K is known for inventing the wave start, and also providing mile splits and overall times for every participant. BolderBOULDER is also among America’s largest road races — which could be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your groove. Either way, one to add to your list for sure.

Wineglass Marathon – Corning, NY
Located in Corning, NY, the Wineglass Marathon and Half Marathon attracts both male and female runners, with the field skewed largely toward the female side. This race is picturesque and boasts amazing views in New York’s Finger Lakes wine country. 
Image source.
Now this one I just happened across on Facebook. But after checking it out some and seeing just how phenomenal it is, I’m totally in. The views, the relay factor — it just looks incredible. Who wants to be on my relay team? 
Klondike Trail Race
Peachtree Road Race 10K – Atlanta, GA 
Both the oldest and largest 10K road race in the United States, this is the pinnacle of racing. When I went to visit ATL last summer, a friend of mine told me about this race and said she does it year after year, dressing up in costume and being lapped by running greats — among them, Meb. Any road runner would love to be on the same course as America’s marathon stud, Meb. Add this one to your list, too.

500 Festival Mini Marathon – Indianapolis, IN
What makes the 500 Festival Mini Marathon so spectacular? The 500 Festival Mini kicks off the month of May — which is the same month as the Indy 500. As a mini marathon participant, you get to run around the Indianapolis Speedway. The 500 Festival Mini-Marathon is also the nation’s largest half-marathon. Like Indy cars? Like running? Like big races? This is the race for you.

Image source.

So there you have it — 7 fabulous races to add to your race bucket list. Hopefully I’ll see you at one soon! (Next one up for me? Rock Hall Half Marathon. Join me!)

xo

What races are on YOUR bucket list? Do you like racing close to home, or are destination races your thing?


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