Destination Races: Traveling + Running = FUN!
I am a runner. At least, I think I am. What exactly makes someone a runner? I’ll certainly never win a race, or even place in my age group, but I enjoy the experience of running. However, I’m also a bit of a flaky runner who only wants to run if it’s a sunny 55-60 degree F day, and/or there’s a piece of bling waiting for me at the finish line. A wardrobe full of tech shirts also makes it somewhat appealing for me as a casual dresser. I know the exercise is good for my body, and I enjoy the feeling of success after I’ve run, but getting out the door is just ugh.
One of my favorite experiences as a runner is participating in destination races. You already know I love traveling, so does it surprise you that I like traveling to run?? And did I mention the nice bling that accompanies many of these races??
A recent destination race I completed was the San Diego Half Marathon in March 2013. The course ran along the water, by Balboa Park, and through the Gaslamp Quarter. It was such a nice tour of 13.1 miles of San Diego. The weather was beautiful and I made the trip last a long weekend so I got to see the sights around the city the day before and after the race.
I’m not an expert at destination races; I’ve only run in Disneyland, Disney World, and San Diego for destination races. Let me tell you, touring a city during a race is such a fun experience. It is a really awesome way to take in some of the sights and features of a city. Disney races are their own special treat. The races are very early in the mornings and you run through the parks when they’re closed and nobody else is there. You also sometimes run in behind the scene areas, which the general public can’t see. For some, the opportunity to have character photos taken during your run is a big appeal for Disney races. One of my favorite parts of a runDisney race are the kids races. They do a fabulous job creating race distances and the race “environment” for the kids. They even get some pretty nice bling too!
Destination races can bring a special joy to your vacation. You can travel for a race, or if you’re traveling somewhere, look for a local race while you’re traveling. My sister & brother in-law love coming to visit us and will regularly look up to see if there is a race during their visit.
Adding a race into your vacation plans can also encourage you to train before your vacation which can help keep you in shape for your trip. Exercise can help decrease stress, which can always surface during travels.
I encourage you to look into adding a race into your next vacation. Or perhaps you’ve wanted to earn a nice medal (the runDisney ones are really nice), so find a race that has a nice medal and plan a trip! Happy Travels and Happy Running!
I join you in the flaky runners club – I don’t run when it’s really cold outside or if I don’t have a race I’m working toward. I have only run one marathon (and that was enough!) but I also traveled to run it and chose the particular race based on time of year (not too cold) and route (through 3 countries). High five for going the distance in the half!!
Hi Chamisa! WooHoo, another member of my flaky runners club! I’ve only done half marathons (& 5k, 10k) but I have a goal to do a full marathon in 2014 or 2015. I’m actually hoping to do the Disney World runDisney Dumbo challenge in 2015. It’s a 5k, 10k, 1/2, full all run on consecutive days.
This is a great idea to share! I was on a trip to Kansas City last August, and the weekend I was there, I found few 5K events. One of them was pretty big! The sad part is I couldn’t fit them in with our current plans, but I agree it adds an added element of excitement to a vacation and keeps you in shape along the way.
Thanks Paul! Glad to hear you’re enjoying destination races!
Hi Kim!
I’m a “runner” too! I’ve done the Tower of Terror 10 miler and I am looking forward to the Princess 1/2 in Feb. I love Run Disney.
I also enjoy running through my own city. Denver has so many cool nooks and crannies and every time I run I find something new (and I”m a native). Thanks for a great post!
Sami
go-go-mountaingirl.com
Hi Sami, thanks for stopping by! I like running through Seattle, but something about destination races really makes me happy! :) I’m looking forward to the Dopey in 2015, and perhaps the Princess one year. I’ve done Tink twice and the Wine & Dine once. The runDisney races are such a blast! Plus they’re run well and have great medals!
I have a friend who does something similar. She and a friend pick a city hosting an Avon Walk for the Cure, sign up, raise money and go. Fun idea :)
That’s great Lydia! Combining running/walking, traveling, and fundraising for a good cause are a great combination!