Spring has currently sprung in many locations around the country, and that means that the season of races for runners is about to begin. In typically frigid areas, the trees and flowers are finally blooming along with courses for 5ks, 10ks, and hundreds of fun runs that are planned for the months of March, April, and May.
After doing a bit of research, it became clear that there are several races that should not be missed by runners this spring. From a Diva Run in Minnesota, to a famous race on the Jersey Shore, there are several courses that should be visited.
Spring Fling Diva Run. Located in southeastern Minnesota, the city of Rochester is known as the headquarters of Mayo Clinic and its top-notch quality of life. Each spring the residents of the city work with the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance to host the annual Diva Run each spring. It is called the Diva Run, because it is a race put on by women, for women. No men are allowed. The route sprawls over beautiful trails, a large park, and around Silver Lake. To feminize the race, participants wear women’s cut shirts during the race, and waiting for them at the finish line are coffee, tea, pastries, and a pampering area with massages and other spa treatments. All profits collected from the race go to ovarian cancer research. Men are encouraged to come cheer the women on at this event, which usually is held at the end of April.
The Spring Lake Five. The Spring Lake Five began as a small event in a miniscule town of Spring Lake on the Jersey Shore. Nowadays, the race has grown into one of the largest and most popular running events on the East Coast. It began in 1977 with a few hundred participants, and today hosts thousands of participants from around the world. Although it hosts so many runners, the race has maintained their low-key, small town feel. Usually held at during the middle of May, the Spring Lake Five’s course follows the coastline at one of the most beautiful times of the year. For runners, it is a badge of honor to claim participation in this fabled race, so it is a must-do for runners of all ages.
Country Music Marathon. For those runners that would like a running tour of Nashville, and to be surrounded by fantastic country music during each step of the race, the Country Music Marathon is a must-do. On April 28, 2012, runners will gather in downtown Nashville to complete a course that features all of the famous sights of Nashville including the Parthenon, Vanderbilt University, Music Row, and the honky tonks of Broadway, with the magnificent finish line at the Tennessee Titan’s stadium on the banks of the Cumberland River. On top of the amazing course, each mile is lined with famous country, rock, jazz, blues, and swing bands. The evening after the race is marked by a post-race concert in the middle of downtown Nashville.
