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Running Events on Racetracks

To many Americans, the word “racing” evokes images of sleek roadsters and sleeker Thoroughbreds. And with two of the nation’s most celebrated races taking place this month in the equine-powered Kentucky Derby and the turbine-powered Indianapolis 500, there’s no better time to profile 10 running events that feature horse or auto racing tracks. Ladies and […]

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Iconic Races 10 Miles or Less (Spring)

Welcome to our spring edition of iconic shorter-distance races worth traveling for! For runners and walkers seeking an unforgettable, family-friendly experience, here we profile ten popular destination events (10 miles or less) that deliver world-class production, energy, and camaraderie without the morning-after hobble of longer distances. (Planning beyond spring? Check out our Summer & Fall […]

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Net-Downhill Marathons for Boston Qualifying

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) set the running world abuzz last month when it announced its registration updates for the 2027 Boston Marathon. Most notable was a new time adjustment—termed “Downhill Results Indexing”—for Boston Marathon qualifying races with a net-downhill of 1,500 feet or greater: Verified qualifying times from any course with a net-downhill of […]

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Anniversary Races to Celebrate (2025–26)

It’s that time of year again! 🥳 Time to celebrate the fact that no matter how many finish lines we’ve crossed, the unrivaled energy and swag of an anniversary makes a memorable race weekend even better. On that note, and in this fifth edition of our annual series, we shine the spotlight on 10 popular […]

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Iconic Races 10 Miles or Less (Summer & Fall)

For many runners, the term “destination race” brings to mind longer distances such as a marathon or half marathon, i.e. “no pain, no plane.” At the same time, a number of popular events across the U.S. feature scenic courses, spirited crowds, and awesome after-parties, all without the post-race limp. Here we profile ten iconic shorter-distance […]

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Anniversary Races to Celebrate (2024–25)

Whether you’re a novice runner seeking an unforgettable debut or a seasoned veteran in search of motivation, the distinctive energy (and swag) of an anniversary celebration makes a memorable race weekend even better. With that in mind, in this fourth edition of our annual series we toast nine popular events poised to break out the […]

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Unconventional Races That Dare To Be Different

Winner Calum Neff of Canada performs during the Wings for Life World Run, in Sunrise, Florida, United States on May 7, 2017. // Marv Watson for Wings for Life World Run // AP-1RXU9P2KD2111 // Usage for editorial use only //

For most of us, a mental image of race day includes start and finish lines, water stations every few miles, and runners all battling the same clock. It’s a tried-and-true formula as old as racing itself. These days, however, a growing number of race organizers are bucking convention and rethinking this time-tested blueprint to add […]

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Anniversary Races to Celebrate (2023–24)

For the inspired runner looking to upgrade their race schedule or medal collection, the distinctive energy and swag of an anniversary celebration is a sure-fire solution. Here, in the third edition of our popular series, we spotlight 11 notable race weekends that are poised to celebrate their golden (50th), silver (25th) or platinum (20th) anniversary in the […]

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Anniversary Races to Celebrate (2022–23)

Whether you’re a first-timer seeking an unforgettable debut or a long-timer looking to rekindle your motivation, an anniversary celebration makes a memorable race weekend even better. And looking ahead, a number of popular running events are poised to celebrate milestone anniversaries in the coming months. With that in mind, and in response to the popularity of our […]

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10 Presidential Races of the U.S. (PROTUS)

For most Americans, the “presidential race” isn’t measured in miles and a “running mate” isn’t someone who shares your fitness goals. Nonetheless, a number of running events from 5K to 50 miles embrace our nation’s history by featuring and celebrating its past leaders. As the country commemorates Presidents’ Day, we spotlight ten races that showcase […]

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Races Inspired by Monsters, Myths & Legends

With Halloween lurking around the corner, now’s a spook-tacular time to spotlight running events inspired by cryptozoology, the study of monsters, myths & legends. For believers and skeptics alike, here are 12 (because 13 would be… unlucky) races where a sudden rustle in the bushes, a shadowy figure in the distance, or an unidentified light in […]

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Anniversary Races Worth Celebrating (2021-22)

With the past year bringing the events industry to a standstill, the return of racing season is a reason to rejoice. Adding to the optimism, a number of notable events celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2021–2022. For the novice runner seeking the perfect first-time marathon/half marathon or the seasoned veteran in search of motivation, the distinctive […]

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Races Inspired By Hollywood

Awards season is in full swing — with the Golden Globes behind us and the Oscars still to come, what better time to recognize running events that pay tribute to the big and small screens? Grab your popcorn and join us as we say “Hooray for Hollywood” with our rundown of movie- and TV-themed races. […]

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Toughest Road Marathons in North America

Looking for an easy first-time marathon or speedy Boston Qualifier? You’re in the wrong place! As if running 26.2 miles weren’t challenging enough, here we spotlight the toughest road (paved or unpaved) marathons in North America. With high altitude, brutal hills and extreme weather, these 13 races take perverse pleasure in extracting as much blood, […]

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6 Racecation destinations for U.S. history buffs

By guest author Heather Miller, Founder, Runfari Though the concept of running while on vacation may not win the popular vote, “We the People” know racecations are a front-runner for future generations of active vacationers. For those who like to throw a little history into the mix, we’ve outlined six racecation destinations that work the […]

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