You may think making winter race plans in Florida isn’t much different than making summer race plans, but the truth is that we do get a winter. We don’t get snow, but ice is a factor, and our temperatures can fall into the teens, paired with nasty humidity, wind, and even frost. The good news is that this can be amazing running weather, which means planning races gets pretty fun!

January: Casino Bridge 5K – Biloxi, MS
First up, we are taking a little road trip to claim my 13th state on my journey to 50! The Casino Bridge 5K promises to be a fun time, and I’m all about a great bridge view. Sadly the weather forecast predicts rain, rain, and more rain, so we are taking ponchos and old shoes and hoping for the best.

February: Best Damn Race 10K – Safety Harbor, FL
At the start of February, I’m heading to Safety Harbor for the Best Damn Race 10K. This was supposed to be my return to the half marathon, but plans change. We are looking forward to a really fun race weekend, with a cool vacation rental, lots of friends, and plenty of amazing times. Want to join us? You can save 10% on any distance with code RUNSWITHPUGS.

February: Raptor Run 3K – St. Augustine, FL
Depending on timing, I would love to run the Raptor Run 3K. This is always a special race, with beautiful scenery for a wonderful cause. And just for fun, runners get to race against an actual raptor! How amazing is that?

March: Gate River Run 15K – Jacksonville, FL
Technically, I would love to head to the Gate River Run 15K in March. It’s a race I run almost every year, and I really do enjoy the heck out of it. However, scheduling doesn’t seem to be on my side. A might have a big band performance, and his girlfriend has a guard competition. We will just have to see how things go, and make decisions as plans solidify.

March: St. Paddy’s 5K + 10K – Jacksonville, FL
If the Gate doesn’t work out, I’d be down to return to the St. Paddy’s Day 5K and 10K at the historic Evergreen Cemetery in Jacksonville. I’ve run the race before, and it’s really well done. The biggest detriment is how far away it is and how awful parking can be, but it would be great to make use of some of my lucky, St. Patrick’s Day tanks and gear!

What are your winter racing plans?
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What no half? What happened?
You do have a lot of choices… I do love a bridge race.
I know. I’m ready to do it, but my friend wanted to back down to the 10K. I’m going for her, so that was fine. I’ll pick another one.
I wish I could do the Gate 15k. But I have work trips the week before and after. I’ve never done a race in my hometown (I didn’t run back then). I might have an occasional work trip there this year.
Maybe next year! It’s really a wonderful one!