being a runner for so long (code for i’ve ben running since high school when you wore really short shorts and striped tube socks) i’ve had the opportunity to run races all over the country. Some have ben forgettable and others jump out and scream, “run me again!”
So here is a list of MY top favorite five races in no particular order…
1. The Double Bridge Run 15K is a must if you like running over water, like hills, and enjoy the beach! Held every February, it is a fast course since there is almost always a tail breeze pushing you right along.
The point-to-point course starts bright and early at 7 a.m. . Runners are bused from the beach to the Bayfront Stadium so get there early. The route takes you from downtown Pensacola across two bridges (and one overpass they call the “hidden bridge”) over Pensacola Bay, through Gulf Breeze and over to Pensacola Beach.
Sounds fun, right? it is! The 8-mile mark is at the top of the second bridge and you make your way to a great after party complete with red beans and rice, jambalaya and if you care, adult beverages!
But the best take away is the medal! the past two years have been spinners!
The only drawback is if you are in a hurry to get back home, plan to wait in line to get back over the bridge since one half is closed for runners.
Grade: A+
2. the Louisiana Marathon in my opinion and that of my fiancee, is THE best race in the south! held in Baton Rouge the second or third week of January, it is a race that captures the beauty of Louisiana, the culture and the food of the state, on a flat and fast course.
I have run this event for the past four years. having run the full three times and the half once. it was OUR first major race together so of course it has a special place in our heart.
but i digress. The race offers lots of options for runners. you can choose the full or half on Sunday, AND if you are feeling up to the challenge, run the 5k or Quarter Note (a little over 6 miles) on Saturday. This year we added the 5k to the mix and enjoyed running with a few thousand of our closest friends!
the best thing about this race..well is everything! from the course to the spectators lining the course handing out King Cake, beer, pancakes, donut holes and just cheering you on, you won’t be bored.
the scenery is picturesque starting at the Capital then heading to the LSU campus (Geaux Tigers!) around the lakes then into the surrounding neighborhoods and back to the River Front.
the after party is a celebration of Louisiana culture! the food is some of the best you will sample. Our favorite was the pork cheek with butternut squash and bacon jam!
and what does the medal look like?
pretty cool right!
Grade: A++
next up
3. The Rock and Roll Nashville
4. The Moon Pie 10-miler
5. Great Smoky Mountain Half Marathon
My life on the run 