5 Destination Races Perfect For Escaping The Winter Cold
These 5 destination races are perfect for runners looking to escape the winter cold and race in warmer climates.
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Winter is coming, and not just on Game of Thrones. As the days get shorter, darker and colder, many runners find themselves losing their will to train consistently. And who can blame them? While those runners in hot, humid climates may find themselves relishing the weather this time of year, the majority of the United States is about to enter a deep freeze. If you need a little extra boost to get out the door and are looking for the perfect mid-winter vacation for when you literally cannot handle the snow anymore, check out one of these five great races!
Related: 5 Destination Races For The Wanderlust Runner
Maui Oceanfront Marathon, Half Marathon, 15K, 10K And 5K
January 14, 2018 in Maui, Hawaii
Race-cation in Hawaii? Yes, please! The Maui Oceanfront Marathon is said to boast the state’s most favorable marathon temperatures, with lower humidity and slightly cooler weather than the other Hawaii races. You’ll run along the ocean (“oceanfront” is in the name, after all) and be able to spot whales and seals along your route. There’s even a “runners-only” whale-watching cruise! There are distances for the whole family, so make it a vacation! Choose from the marathon, half marathon, 15K, 10K and 5K options.
Miami Marathon, Half Marathon And 5K
January 28, 2018 in Miami, Fla.
Welcome to Miami! The Miami Marathon offers an escape from the cold and a fun tour through the sprawling city. Runners will pass through downtown Miami and over several causeways before running through the famous South Beach. You’ll have plenty of ocean and island views, as well as a chance to see some of the city’s culturally diverse neighborhoods. Marathon, half marathon and 5K options are available.
Surf City Marathon And Half Marathon
February 4, 2018 in Huntington Beach, Calif.
Sun, sea and Super Bowl Sunday–that’s the Surf City Marathon and Half Marathon in Huntington Beach, Calif. Held every year on Super Bowl Sunday, the races run along the beautiful beaches of Southern California. The course will take you through beautiful parks, an ecological preserve and past plenty of surfers waiting to cheer you on! In addition to earning all of those Super Bowl snacks, you’ll also receive an epic surfboard-shaped finisher’s medal!
Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon, Half Marathon And 5K
February 18, 2018 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
The Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon is famous for its flat, fast course and miles of unobstructed ocean views–but that’s not all. Each year, the race committee comes up with a truly unique and intricate medal designed to resemble one of the many sea creatures that live off Florida’s coast. With marathon, half marathon, 6K (Komen’s Run for the Pink, a breast cancer awareness fundraiser), 5K and fun run distances, this race has something for everyone.
Mesa-Phoenix Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K And Kids 1K
February 24, 2018 in Phoenix, Ariz.
If you’re looking to run a Boston-qualifying time, the Mesa-Phoenix Marathon might just be the place to do so. Approximately 20.7 percent of marathon finishers netted a BQ on the course in 2016 thanks to the net downhill point-to-point course and perfect weather. Billed as Arizona’s most scenic marathon, you’ll enjoy views of the Phoenix Valley, the desert and the city itself. Race options include the marathon, half marathon and 10K distances, as well as a 1K for younger runners.
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