On today’s Fit Five Friday, I want to share my (mostly final) list of the races to run this season! It’s the height of race season here, and we have so many options in my area!
DONNA 26.2 Breast Cancer Marathon (February 6, 2022 – Jacksonville Beach – 13.1 distance)
The DONNA is one of our best known local races with national appeal. Created 15 years ago by local personality Donna Deegan (a three-time breast cancer survivor), the DONNA events are nothing short of epically inspirational. In my running history, I’ve participated in the 5K, 10K, and marathon relay, but this year, I’m facing the half marathon distance. I’m excited for all the incredible memories we will make that day.
Gate River Run 15K (March 5, 2022 – Downtown Jacksonville – 15K distance)
The Gate is a hometown favorite. Runners take on 9.3 miles through downtown Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. Usually, the course is packed tight with bands and spectators offering all kinds of encouragement, but we will see how the current climate changes things. The Gate is known as the largest 15K in the country, and boasts two huge bridges (one at mile 1, and the second at mile 8). It’s a brutal course, but so much fun. I’ve skipped the last three years due to injury and COVID, and I am ready to be back.
Shamrock’n 5K (March 19, 2022 – Beachwalk – 5k)
I’m a sucker fur anything at the Beachwalk community – the course is fine, but getting photos by the beach and lagoon make up for it. This is put on by a local race company, getting back in the game after the events of the last few year, and I am happy to show support. Also, green beer? Yes, please.
3K Raptor Run (March 20, 2022 – Alligator Farm – 3K distance)
Yes, the 3k is a bit of an untraditional distance (automatic PR!), but when you’re running for a great cause like the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, you run the untraditional distance. Runners get a shirt, medal, and post-race refreshments, plus a free child’s admission with every paid adult admission. Plus, proceesds go to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC), partnering to celebrate Anastasia Beach Mice. Everyone wins!
Best Damn Race Starkey Trail (April 8-10, 2022 – Starkey Park, FL – 16.25 miles)
I love the idea of a good trail relay, and I am so excited for my team to take on the inaugural Best Damn Race Starkey Trail event. We will run, camp, take all the photos, and have all the fun. Trail relays are something completely out of the norm, but they end up being such great time. If you haven’t done one, you should give it a try (and if you so happen to join us in Starkey Park, or any Best Damn Race, use code RUNSWITHPUGS to save 10%).
What races are you running this season?
These all sound great.
Maybe I will run one of these someday during one of my Florida visits.
Good luck on your Feb 6 half marathon.
I’m coming down for the Miami Half – the same weekend as the race for Donna. Can’t wait!
Sounds like you have a really fun line up! Enjoy!
Chocolaterunsjudy recently posted…5 Ways Strength Training Could Make You Faster
I do like a 15K distance and we don’t have too many of those around here. Looks like you have a fun line up so far
Great line-up of races! The Donna race has been on my radar for years – maybe one day the stars will align and I’ll get to run it. Best of luck!
Lots of fun in store for you! I’m glad I was able to get in two 5K live races and one 13.1 (virtual) while snowbirding. I want to return (someday) and do Gasparilla.
Trail races are so much fun! I didn’t know the “Best Damn Race” series had a trail relay. Definitely going to look into it!!
Heather Hart recently posted…What is Palate Fatigue, and How Can Ultrarunners Avoid It?
It’s new this year! We would love to have you!
I want to do the Gate one year. I so love that distance. Good luck next weekend!