Top Marathons and Races in Virginia to Challenge Your Limits
Road races are a Virginia tradition. No matter the weather or the season, the most committed runners spend their time racking up miles. And with the diverse Virginia terrain, with long sandy beaches on the coast and beautiful hiking trails in the north, there’s plenty of races for runners to jump into. Below are the best that highlight all Virginia has to offer, from the natural splendor to the sparkling cities.
Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K, Richmond, VA
The Ukrop Monument Avenue 10K race winds through the capitol, Richmond, and has been featured as one of the best races in the country by USA Today. Thousands of runners take down Monument Avenue in April not only to take in the city, but also to enjoy the scores of block parties around ever corner. Local bands, spirit groups, food, and costumes are a regular site. Ukrop is half party, half marathon, but all fun.
Richmond Marathon, Richmond, VA
Richmond Marathon is “America’s Friendliest Marathon” according to Runner’s World. The marathon has a scenic route “that winds through the city’s most historic and beautiful neighborhoods and runs over and along the James River.” Junk food stops and washcloth stations along the way, as well as live bands, DJs, spirit groups and party zones help to make this marathon the friendliest. The after-race pizza and beer don’t hurt, either.
Fall Classic Half Marathon & 10K, Charlottesville, VA
The marathon begins in Historic Lee Park and winds through historic Charlottesville, “during peak fall foliage.” It follows the Rivanna River for two miles and tours many of Charlottesville’s most historic neighborhoods. This marathon is all about enjoying the fall weather against the gorgeous University of Virginia backdrop.
Mill Mountain Mayhem 10K Trail Race, Roanoke, VA
Also known as the Explore your Limits 5K and 10K, this Roanoke race takes participants through the mountains of the Roanoke Valley. While several races have cropped up over the years, this was the first. The “10K has grown to be the largest event in the Roanoke Non Ultra Trail Series (RNUTS).” Prizes are awarded based on age group.
Trail Nut 10K & Half Marathon, Bedford, VA
The Trail Nut 10K and Half Marathon veers through Bedford Trails. The park is family friendly, with a “playground, pavilions, paved path Frisbee golf, fitness circuit, and shuffle board, bird watching trails, mountain bike trails, and pump track.” Wildlife is a common feature of the trail. The top three male and female winners, as well as overall masters will receive rewards.
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Virginia Beach, VA
The Shamrock Marathon is a Virginia Beach staple. The course is just over 26 miles, with options to participate in the 8K, half marathon, and full marathon. Enjoy a run down at the oceanfront, right by the beach, all the way down to the Cape Henry Light House (the oldest lighthouse in the country). You must be sixteen or older to enter. Themed events, including the Dolphin and Whale Challenge, Operation Smile Final Mile, and Children’s Marathon fill out this already wonderful race.
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