Fall Race Bucket List

Now that you have made it through the tough summer months, it’s time to show the weather who is boss and start PR-ing those fall races. Although we aren’t sure why you would want to leave Arizona in the fall, especially with all the amazing StartLine Racing events all over the valley, but if you find yourself in one of these locations, make sure to check out some “won’t want to miss” races.

1. Chicago Marathon – Chicago, IL – Why wouldn’t you want to run an early October marathon in Chicago? A flat and fast course through some of the best parts of the city with over 1.5 million spectators is a great way to break into the marathon world. If you are looking to get into this race, plan ahead. Applications and runners are selected in early Spring.
2. The Great Race – Pittsburgh, PA – Not every bucket list run has to be a marathon. In fact the list of must-run 10K’s is just as exciting. The Great Race is in its 41st year and has around 11,000 runners. The route is mostly downhill and takes you through 5 college campuses, has a Great Race Expo and pre-race dinner. Things you usually only get with the longer races.
3. Lake Tahoe Half Marathon Weekend – S. Lake Tahoe, CA – One half marathon in a weekend not enough of a challenge? Then head to Tahoe and you can run 3! That’s right. They have 3 different half marathon courses you can pick from on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. But you will want to make sure you train for the elevation change and challenging hills on any of the courses.
4. Disney’s Wine and Dine – Orlando, FL – No bucket list would be complete without a little Disney. Granted this race sells out fast and 9 months early, it is one of the best fall races around. Pick from a 5K, 10K, Half or the challenge. This event is held during Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival, so run all the miles and then eat all the food.
5. Anthem Richmond Marathon – Richmond, VA – Do you like to have fun and make friends while you run 26.2 miles? Then you need to run “America’s Friendliest Marathon”. Get to mile 16 and 22 and treat yourself to a little junk food, dance in the party zones and enjoy the post race pizza and beer party afterwards.
6. Across the Bay 10k – Annapolis, MD – If you are tired of running in the desert and are ready for views of the water, then you will enjoy the more than 4 miles of this 6 mile race that is run over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. If you still have some energy left when you finish, head over and dance the day away with the live music waiting for you at the finish line.
7. Portland Marathon – Portland, OR – If you are looking for a BQ certified course in some great weather, then head out to Portland, OR for this fast, fun race. This race also is known for being very walker friendly, even for all 26.2 miles.
8. Monterey Bay Half Marathon – Monterey, CA – Where else can you get a gorgeous California coastal view and run some challenging hills? The Monterey Bay Half takes you through Cannery Row before heading out along the coastline where you can see views of lighthouses and golf courses before turning around and heading on a trail course for the finish.
9. Marine Corp Marathon – Washington, D.C – Feeling lucky? Then enter the lottery for a spot in the Marine Corp Marathon. Not only will you see all the Washington Memorials, but you will be cheered on by Marines all along the course and even get your Finisher’s medal put on by one as well.
10. Wicked Half Marathon – Phoenix/Tucson, AZ – Can’t finish this Top 10 list off without one of our own fall races. We offer so many great ones this year and we are partnered with some amazing charities too, that it was tough to pick a race to spotlight. But the Wicked Half is the perfect event for families. We offer a half marathon, 4 mile and the Spooky Sprint. See, something for everyone!!