6 Must-Do Races From The Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series

The Expert: Amy Heveran
Chicago, IL, 34 years old

Growing up as an athlete, Heveran was always active, but it wasn’t until she played college softball that the she discovered running. Starting with 2-mile training workouts at the orders of her coach, it wasn’t long before she started looking forward to her runs on campus. After graduating, Heveran longed for something more and decided to sign up for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon in 2010. It was love at first race for the physical education teacher who also enjoys music and meeting new people–two hallmarks of Rock ‘n’ Roll events. Now with five full marathons, 50 halfs, four 10Ks and 21 5Ks from the series under her belt, Heveran looks to 2017 as the year she’ll complete every marathon in the lineup. Read her top race picks, along with tips she has for getting the most out of every race!

SOUTHERN STRIDER

Thanks to a church-centric culture, Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah offers a special long-distance Saturday race. The weather can be challenging (sometimes it’s hot, sometimes it’s chilly!), and the concert venue delivers the optimum post-race digs with a large, open grassy park surrounded by beautiful trees and historic homes. You can run a half or full and celebrate Saturday night worry-free—or take part in one of the shorter-distance races set for Sunday.
NOV. 4–5, SAVANNAH, GA
DISTANCES: 1-MILE, 5K, HALF AND FULL MARATHON, MARATHON RELAY

LITTLE CITY, BIG PERSONALITY

Heveran returns to Rock ‘n’ Roll Raleigh year after year, thanks to its Southern charm and an indulgent variety of restaurants. Raleigh’s expo is also unique thanks to a band playing outside the convention center. Pick up your race bib, grab a beer with friends and calm pre-race jitters while listening to some tunes. The concert venue also provides a great post-race destination.
APRIL 1–2, RALEIGH, NC
DISTANCES: 5K, HALF AND FULL MARATHON

MOUNTAIN MOVER

“Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver is the only Rock ‘n’ Roll race in the U.S. that I haven’t run, but that’s about to change in 2017!” says Heveran. She’s excited to check o a goal she set in 2013 to finish all of the U.S. cities—and because the Colorado event is famously lovely. The loop course takes runners through the capital city’s streets backed by views of snowcapped peaks. Heveran adds, “I’ve heard that the elevation can make this a tough race, but I can’t wait to tackle the challenge.”
OCT. 14–15, DENVER, CO
DISTANCES: 5K, 10K AND HALF MARATHON

CITY LOVER

“Some might say I’m biased because this event takes place in my backyard, but those who have experienced Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago would probably understand why I speak so highly of this race,” says Heveran. With the electric energy, spectacular views, flat courses and exceptional crowd support, this weekend is a true gem. Though it takes place in summer, the early 6:30 a.m. start helps ward o the city’s infamous heat.
JULY 15–16, CHICAGO, IL
DISTANCES: 5K, 10K AND HALF MARATHON

EMERALD CITY

With nearly perfect weather for running and crowds that are ready to go, Rock ‘n’ Roll Seattle offers a picturesque backdrop for the race of your dreams. The course starts near the city’s iconic downtown Space Needle, providing Instagram-worthy views of the water and city.
JUNE 18, SEATTLE, WA
DISTANCES: HALF AND FULL MARATHON

SUNNY DELIGHT

Sunny skies make for happy runners and crazy post-race parties at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona race weekend. This event features a Remix Challenge with two days of running fun. If your legs are feeling feisty, sign up for the Saturday 5K and one of the longer distances on Sunday to earn a bonus medal. With fl at terrain and point-to-point courses for the half and full races, runners get a true tour of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe.
JANUARY 2018, PHOENIX, AZ
DISTANCES: 5K, 10K, HALF AND FULL MARATHON