Fun Runs

How was everyone's weekend?  The weather here was absolutely gorgeous - LOVE this time of year!  I had a chance to fit in a run on Saturday afternoon & found myself immersed in the beautiful fall foliage. 

I also took advantage of some unexpected down time on Saturday to look into a few upcoming local races that I'm hoping to add to my schedule this winter/spring.  Here's a list of my fave finds:

1.   Veteran's Day 10K & Tidal Basin Walk - this race is almost sold out & it's just a few days away (Sunday November 10th), but I'm considering registering last minute.  It's described as a "flat and fast course, located in the shadow of several of our nation’s war memorials."  There's also a 2.25 mile walk option that circles the Tidal Basin.  This is a bonus for me, because I can likely convince my P.A. (that's short for personal assistant, also known as Mom) to join me.  I recently conned her into completing her first 5K - the Redskin's Back to Football Run - another very fun run - (see finish line photo below).  2.25 miles should be a walk in the park compared to that 5K - right, Mom?!!!  Right, Kristin!  We'll be registering tonight :). 

2. The Ugly Sweater Run - December 21st - this 5K boasts of a course full of hot chocolate aide stations, snow blowers, Santa inflatables & holiday music.  Each runner receives a custom vintage knit hat, 2 free winter lagers, and a mustache!  I'm already signed up for this one - if you'd like to join me & get a $5 discount, click on the above link and register under the team name: Rare Reindeer.  

3. Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run - April 6th - I've had this race on my radar for a few years, but I've been unable to get in via the lottery registration so far.  It would be a perfect race before my taper for Boston.  This year's lottery opens on December 2nd.  Wish me luck!

5. Nike Women's Half Marathon DC   - April 27th - this race is less than a week after the Boston Marathon.  Sure, why not, haha!  I ran this last year & it was a well organized event.  The race course takes you past several historic monuments.  At the finish line, runners are greeted by tuxedo clad men handing out Tiffany's finisher necklaces.  This race is also a lottery registration - which opened this morning, and will remain open through 6PM on November 22nd.  You can register as either an individual or a team of 10 or less people.  Also, if you're a current college student (grad students included) and possess a valid physical student ID, you qualify for a $25 discount while supplies last.  Make sure to choose this option when registering for the random draw.  I signed up with a group of girls from my high school alma mater.  Fingers crossed we get in!

6. Across the Bay 10K - Chesapeake Bay Bridge Run - November 9, 2014 - this will be the inaugural Across the Bay10K.  Interesting fact - Dave McGillvray (the race director of the Boston Marathon since 1988) will be organizing this event too!  Registration for this event opens this Saturday - November 9th.  However, if you follow the above link to their website & join the mailing list BEFORE NOVEMBER 9th, you'll be entered in a contest to win a race weekend package.  The winner will receive the honorary Bib#1, complimentary accommodations at Loews Annapolis Hotel, gourmet meals at local restaurants, race gear, special event access and prizes from local merchants!