Best Spring 2015 Races In Minnesota
Despite the long winters, Minnesota, and the Twin Cities especially, is known as one of the fittest areas of the country. There are races galore for all types of runners, and many have become more social events than best-time pushers. Whatever the reason you want to put shoe to pavement, these are a few of the upcoming races to keep an eye on. Shake off the winter blues and hit the ground running.
Get In Gear 10k, 5k, 2k, Half Marathon
4801 Minnehaha Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55417
(612) 722-9004
www.getingearevents.com
Date: April 25, 2015
The largest 10k in Minnesota, and voted one of the top 15 in the country, the Get In Gear race brings runners in from all over. Even Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges joins in. This is a diverse race, catering to all skills and motivations, that brings money in for Second Harvest Heartland and other community groups around the city. More than just a "see and be seen" race, here you'll be running for a great cause that has helps thousands of people every day.
Get Lucky Half Marathon and 7k
Minneapolis 7k:
225 3rd Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55401
www.getluckytc.org
St. Paul Half Marathon:
214 E. 4th St.
St. Paul, MN 55101
Date: March 14, 2015
Celebrate Irish heritage while breaking a sweat with this green race through the streets of Minneapolis and St. Paul. The 7k takes place in Minneapolis, and the half marathon will be across the river in picturesque downtown St. Paul. Races will be steeped, so that elite runners don't get tangled up with those who enjoy a slower pace. Post-race parties will be happening at Irish pubs around the area, and at the Union Depot in St. Paul where runners can enjoy a free slice of pizza as well. Don't forget to take advantage of your free glass of Finnegan's after the race, as you've definitely earned it.
Easter Sunday Rise and Shine
1360 Lexington Parkway N.
St. Paul, MN 55103
(612) 245-9160
www.charitieschallenge.org
Date: April 5, 201
This 5k, and 1.5-mile family fun walk, for charity is a great way to celebrate Easter Sunday. Beautiful Lake Como in St. Paul is the backdrop for this morning race that, hopefully, should bring the cool breeze and warming weather of spring with it. The Charities Challenge is committed to improving health and fitness, reducing health risks and enhancing disease management with its activities and races. You are also allowed to fundraise for any other nonprofit, charitable cause of your choice. You don't have to be a marathon runner to make this race count.
Related: Tips For Buying Running Gear
Stillwater Half Marathon and 5k
Downtown Stillwater
Contact the organizers at: info@runstillwater.com
www.stillwaterhalfmarathon.com
Date: May 23, 2015
You won't find a more beautiful run than the half marathon, or 5k, that begins in the quaint, historic downtown of the city and offers some of the best views along the St. Croix River. Lush and green again after the long winter, the trees, bushes and grass all around the race will remind you of why changing seasons are so special. This is the race for those who truly appreciate running outdoors, who will appreciate the sun coming over the horizon as the race starts and who enjoy nothing more than the crisp air and smells of spring.
Related: Best Running Clubs In Minnesota
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
