In case you haven’t noticed, it’s running season! Well, at least it’s training for the upcoming long list of runs season. Since Orlando is a somewhat large city, there is a wide variety of runs of different lengths and styles. There are runs for hardcore runners and then some runs for those that just want to participate and test their strengths. I have made of list of just a small portion of the runs that Orlando has to offer. They all vary from each other, so there should be a run that appeals to each one of you.
1. The Color Run
This may be the only one of the runs that has a specific dress code. The reason for the dress code is very unique because you finish the race in a different outfit than when you started the race. The Color Run is a 5K through the Citrus Bowl area of Orlando. You are required to wear a white t-shirt because after each kilometer that you complete the volunteers working the race blitz you with a color corresponding to that distance. This race is designed to be a party; there are no speed requirements and anyone of all shapes and sizes can run in this race. There are only two rules: 1. White t-shirts and 2. You must be covered in color by the end!
For more information: http://thecolorrun.com/
2. Disney Princess Half Marathon
This race is 13.1 miles long and it is designed to test all of your princess characteristics: courage, determination, strength, fantasy and commitment. A half marathon is no easy feat, but there is still time to train. This run has a weekend full of activities aside from the run itself. There is a character breakfast, Pasta in the Park Party, a family 5K, and a race retreat at the end. There are princesses cheering for you along the way of a path that starts in Epcot and goes through the Magic Kingdom.
For more information: http://www.rundisney.com/princess-half-marathon/
3. Expedition Everest Challenge
Registration has not opened for this run yet, but trust me, you will want to register when it does. The Everest Challenge is a 5K scavenger hunt through the Animal Kingdom Park. You can (and should) register as a team for an even better experience of solving the clues and using your compass to make it to the finish of this race. There are obstacles and on-course entertainment that make this race so unique. This race is at night and there are even some rides open during the post-race party. This is a truly fun and exhilarating race.
For more information: http://www.rundisney.com/expedition-everest-challenge/
4. OUC Orlando Half Marathon
This is another half marathon that is one of the Southeast’s top road race events. The track goes through Downtown Orlando and around Lake Eola. More than 4,000 runners run in this event and it is coming up soon on Dec. 1. At the post-race party, those who are 21 will receive two free Michelob Ultra drink vouchers, which is not a bad way to reward yourself for finishing. There is live music played along the course to help keep your pace throughout.
For more information: http://www.trackshack.com/orlando-half-marathon/index.shtml
5. Elf Classic Running Festival
This is the 6th year for this event, and it is heralded as the best off-road running venues in Florida. There are two distances you can choose from: either a 5K or 10K. All registration fees benefit one of three charities of your choice: AMESPA Children’s Foundation, Community Food Outreach, or the Base Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation. The location of this race is in Moss Park, which is near the Orlando International Airport. The race will take place on Dec. 15.
For more information: http://www.buttar.com/events/running/ElfClassic/index.htm
6. Real Florida 5K and 10K
This race is now in its 26th because it is always brought back by popular demand. This is the only event in Florida that is run entirely in a state park. So you can try to outpace a deer if you dare. All proceeds of this event go towards the Wekiva Wilderness Trust, which helps support the environmental and educational work of the park. The race is located in the Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka.
For more information: http://www.epicsportsmarketing.com/events/real-florida-5k#section
All of these events are exciting, rewarding, and keep us on our toes. Registering for a race is a great goal to have to keep you at the gym and staying healthy. It is also a great excuse to buy some new cute running shoes. So lace them up and get running!