Cleveland, Ohio has a storied history — both good and bad. But one thing’s for certain — there’s been a slow and steady increase in activity in the area over the last decade. Cleveland has been ranked time and again for things like revitalization, restaurants and culinary experiences, and others. Additionally, Cleveland was ranked as one of the top 50 best running cities by Runner’s World. So what makes Cleveland so badass when it comes to fitness and running? Today I’ll give you just five of the countless races in the area that showcase just how amazing greater Cleveland really is. Check out these 5 amazing spring races Cleveland has to offer!
5 Amazing Spring Races Cleveland Has to Offer
1. Cleveland Marathon
The Cleveland Marathon has been a Cleveland staple for 40 years this year. To celebrate the 40th running, the folks over at the Cleveland Marathon are rolling out some impressive gear and apparel along with it. Among the offerings are limited edition posters celebrating the 40th anniversary, CLE leggings, and even shoes!
The Cleveland Marathon offers a fun race atmosphere, nice crowd support, and a good expo. It’s definitely not a race to miss, especially if you’re in the area. And there’s a race distance for everyone — all the way from the 5K to the full marathon to the challenge series. The race is just 36 days away but there’s still time to register! And if you’re not local but are looking for a fun race to add to your spring racing lineup for the coming years, be sure to consider the Cleveland Marathon! It’s one of the great spring races Cleveland boasts.
Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon start line
2. Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon
A new race for me this year is the Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon in Canton, Ohio. Though Canton is rather far from Cleveland, I can’t help but group this race into the greater Cleveland area. Akron and Canton are always closely tied to Cleveland so it doesn’t feel like much of a stretch to add the Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon.
The marathon, half marathon, and two person relay events are sold out but if you’re looking to get in on the action, there’s still slots open for the five person relay team as well as the 5K. I’ve heard great things about the Hall of Fame Marathon so I’m anxious to see how everything plays out. Should be a fun race day! Recap will soon follow.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon
3. 20-Mile Drop
I first ran the 20-Mile Drop in 2015 as part of my training for my first marathon. I had a brilliant time on this course. It was sunny, the weather was near perfect, I had the company of good friends, and it was just a joy to run. This year the 20-Mile Drop is my goal race.
The 20-Mile Drop offers both a 20 mile and 10 mile option. They both net an overall loss of elevation (hence the name “Drop”) which makes it ideal for snagging PRs. But if you’re in training for the Cleveland Marathon (and half!) and not looking for a PR per se, it coincides perfectly with a lot of training plans in terms of weekly long run mileage. The medals are always amazing from the Lake Health Running Series, and after the race all runners get pancakes! What’s not to love about that?
Spring Races Cleveland
4. Towpath Half
I’ve never run the Towpath Half Marathon but it’s wildly popular among spring races Cleveland runners gravitate toward in the greater Cleveland area. The towpath is a trail on the bank of the Ohio & Erie Canalway. It’s a beautiful place to run, walk, or bike, and on any given day, regardless of season, there are plenty of people taking advantage of it for recreation purposes. The Towpath Trilogy is a race series that benefits the development of the Towpath in and around Cleveland, Ohio.
If you’re looking for a picturesque, enjoyable spring race, you should consider the Towpath Half Marathon.
5. Hermes 10 Miler
The people of Cleveland love the Hermes Cleveland 10 Miler. And I’ve never run it! I need to change that, huh? The Hermes 10 Miler is one of the larger races in the area with 2,000 runners! If big, shorter distance races are your thing, this is the race for you. The course begins at Edgewater Park on the shore of Lake Erie and weaves through some historic towns on Cleveland’s west side.
CLE Ambassador Jessica McCartney at the Hermes 10 Miler in 2011
There are countless races in the Cleveland area during all four seasons and covering all distances. You’ll find everything from a 1-mile run/walk to a 100-miler. If you live in the greater Cleveland area, travel here for business or pleasure, or are just looking for a great place to run and race, we’ve got you covered. Let me know if you head my way — I would love to show you my city!
Did you miss my post on “beginner” advice? I’ve got advice for everything from setting foot in a gym to tackling an ultramarathon. Be sure to check it out!
xo
TALK TO ME!
Do you have a favorite local spring race? Which one?
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