A lot of you probably know about the women's-only gyms that have been sprouting up all over--Curves and Victory Lady Fitness, to name just two. What you may not know, is that there also several women's-only running events that tour the country. So, if you've been looking for a little more motivation to get fit or start running, look no further than your girlfriends, sisters, mothers, and other women you know. Get a group of girls together and train for one of these women-only events. The camaraderie at these events is wonderful, and some of them even support women's wellness beyond race day, acting as charity events for women's health issues such as ovarian cancer. This post will educate you about two phenomenal females-only race events.
The Pretty Muddy 5k
This race is a hilariously messy 3-mile obstacle course. I ran last year's Richmond event in Pocahontas State Park and enjoyed it so much, that months ago, I was already signed up for the next time the race comes my way (which won't take place until this coming fall). Upcoming Pretty Muddy 5ks are set to place in:
Dallas, Texas June 1
Sacramento, California June 29
Chicago, Illinois September 7
Columbus, Ohio September 14
Richmond, Virginia September 28
Atlanta, Georgia October 12
Tampa, Florida December 7
Miami, Florida December 14
Event features I enjoyed included a fun (and optional) group warm-up at the starting line, the obstacles (an inflatable slide into a mud pit, tunnels full of mud, walls to climb, a rope wall to scale, logs to lift and carry, a foam machine, a bin of inflated beach balls--just to name a few), and the post-race party that had music, vendors, etc. Plus, the T-shirt last year was REALLY cute and since all the sizes are for women, it actually FIT. Another perk is that this race is typically organized into waves, with the earliest starting maybe around 7 or 8, and the latest running into the afternoon. You can be an early bird--or not. :-)
Run Like a Girl
This event partners with The HERA Foundation to benefit ovarian cancer research. It's usually an 8k, but depending on the location, the distance varies. Usually, this is a trail run. I have participated two or three times, and really enjoyed it. I will be participating again this year.
So far, three locations and dates have been set for 2013, but according to the website, more are in the works. Here are the dates and locations that have already been determined:
Richmond, Virginia June 2
Richmond, Virginia October 13
Virginia Beach, Virginia October 20
Charlotte, North Carolina DATE TBD
Event features I enjoyed in this race were the beautiful wooded trails, the vendors, and the opportunity to support a charity. Another nice feature is the race start is not too early--9:00 AM. Finally, when they give out water at the finish line, it's usually in a really cute Run-Like-A-Girl reusable water bottle (I still have two of mine).
So, ladies, no more excuses: Get out there and run!
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