Best Spring & Summer Runs In North Texas
Dallas does everything big, especially when it comes to races like the White Rock Marathon and Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The city has earned its ranking in athletic competitions with scores of charitable runs, walks and other events. Run the best the Big D has to offer all year long.
The Lone Star 5K/10K
Texas Ranger Ballpark
1000 Ball Park Way
Arlington, TX 76011
(800) 999-1898
www.thelonestarrace.org
Price: Click here for registration details
Date: March 31, 2012
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Celebrate Texas' independence with a run through some of Dallas' most important sports sites. Benefiting Ability Connection Texas, the race twists through Arlington from the Rangers Ballpark Stadium to the Dallas Cowboys Stadium to Six Flags Theme Park, then back to the Rangers Ballpark where an after party waits to congratulate runners. Food, fun and other festivities abound at the Lone Star Race.
Big D Texas Marathon, 1/2 Marathon and 5K
1300 Robert B Cullum Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75210
(817) 706-0368
www.texasmarathon.com
Price: Click here for registration details
Date: April 15, 2012
Time: 7:30 a.m.
A Boston-qualifier race, this marathon is a dream for those who love the sights and sounds of Dallas. It starts at Fair Park and then winds through White Rock Lake as well as the historic Swiss Avenue neighborhood, allowing runners a panoramic view of Victorian-style houses and manicured yards. Finally athletes arrive at the historic Cotton Bowl back at Fair Park. A whirlwind tour of history, culture and Dallas flair, the Big D Marathon teems with views that intrigue and enchant Dallas locals and visitors alike.
Related: Study Says Marathons do not Boost Heart Risk
Caveman Triathlon
Flower Mound Community Activity Center
1200 Gerault Rd
Flower Mound TX 75028
(214) 502-9837
www.dallasathletesracing.com
Price: Click here for registration details
Date: April 22, 2012
Time: 7 a.m.
The Caveman Triathlon is a truly unique experience, combining swimming, bike riding and running skills of anyone in touch with his primitive side. Events include a 275-yard swim in an indoor pool, a 13-mile bike ride and a 5K run with plenty of photo opportunities for onlookers. The fittest and fastest finish and earn bragging rights. Caveman and cavewoman garb is welcome, but the real requirements to participate are stamina and a desire for fun.
Melon Dash 5K
314 S Chestnut St
McKinney, TX 75069
(214) 205-1086
www.runproject.org
Price: Click here for registration details
Date: Aug. 4, 2012
Time: 7:45 a.m.
This run invigorates the senses as tired feet pound pavement in historic downtown McKinney. The run ends at the Farmers Market, just in time to enjoy some of the best summer fruits and refreshments. Runners will enjoy the sweet smells of ripe produce and natural treats as they cross the finish line. Proceeds go to North Texas Cat Rescue.
The Hottest Half and 10K
100 N Buckner Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75218
(817) 706-0368
www.hottesthalf.com
Price: Click here for registration and schedule details
Date: Aug. 12, 2012
Time: 7:30 a.m.
Texans know summer is the time everyone slows down and enjoys big swimming pools and air conditioners. Yet the truly daring push their limits with summer marathons. With temperatures at the 100-degree mark, this is not a race for everyone. Covering a distance of 13.1 or 6.2 miles, this marathon carves its way through Norbuck Park and White Rock Lake so the view through the sweat is cool and refreshing.
Related:Best Hiking Trails Around Dallas/Fort Worth
Kena Sosa is a freelance writer in Dallas. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
