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5K
New Path 5K
Race/Distance: New Path 5k
Location: Ginghamsburg Methodist Church (Tipp City)
Course: The course is certified and one of the more challenging
ones in the area. The last mile has a really tough hill in it.
Number of Runners: 270-400
Summary: This 5K is very well run and Alliance Running does the
timing. The church has prize money for overall and master
runners. They boast an impressive food spread and many door
prizes. |
Vandalia Freedom Run
Race/Distance: Vandalia Freedom 5k
Location: Vandalia Rec Center
Course: The course is certified and flat. It does not run
fast usually because of the hot weather.
Number of Runners: 200-275
Summary: This race has grown steadily over the past few
years. Your entry fee includes a shirt and water bottle.
This event is in conjunction with the Freedom Bike Tour. |
St. Chris Run for the Youth 5K
Race/Distance: St. Chris 5k
Location: St. Christopher Church (Vandalia)
Course: The course is certified and flat. It begins and
ends at the church moving through the adjacent neighborhood
Number of Runners: 100-175
Summary: The race offers unique awards (Bobbleheads), food, and
a live band. |
St. Patrick's Day 5K
Race/Distance: St. Patrick's 5k
Location: Armco Park (Lebanon)
Course: The course follows a rolling paved bike path through
the park. It offers a few hills and a nice flat finish.
The times are normally a little slow. The course is certified,
and it is an out-and-back setup.
Number of Runners: 175-300
Summary: This 5k normally attracts decent numbers and a
fairly strong field. Its the second ORRRC team race ($2-6 entry
fee). The awards presentation and registration is held in the
park activities building next to the finish and start line. They
typically have green sugar cookies after the race (yum!). |
Helke Park 5K
Race/Distance: Helke Park 5k
Location: Vandalia
Course: The race begins by the tennis courts on Randler.
It enters Helke park and makes one loop around the paved bike path.
You finish near the starting line, but it is not an out-and-back course.
It is a fast course!
Number of Runners: 100-150
Summary: Another ORRRC race, which is perfect for an early
season tune-up. This is a potential 5k PR course. This race
usually brings out several competitive runners. |
Sugar Maple 5K
Race/Distance: Sugar Maple 5k
Location: Bellbrook
Course: The starting line is a 5 minute jog from Sugarcreek
Elementary (registration area). It is an out-and-back course that
follows one road. The road presents great shade, scenery, and some
rolling hills. It can be a moderately fast course
Number of Runners: 150-300
Summary: An ORRRC event that is in coordination with the
Bellbrook Sugar Maple Festival. Low entry fee, nice awards, and
great food make this an excellent event. |
Ears to Good Speech 5K
Race/Distance: Deweese 5k
Location: Dayton (Deweese Park)
Course: A flat course that runs through Deweese Park’s bike-path.
You begin near the Ridge Ave. exit heading North. You turn around a cone
and head south to the bridge, turn around and finish near the park
entrance. It’s very flat.
Number of Runners: 150-200
Summary: One of the many races held at Deweese. |
Art Van Atta 5K
Race/Distance: Art Van Atta 5k
Location: Art Van Atta Park (Vandalia)
Course: The starting line is on a gravel road and quickly
spills out onto the paved park road. The first mile is all down
hill. Most of the race is run on the bike path that winds through
a wooded area. It’s a very shaded run. This race boasts
one of the best finishes of any 5k (a winding finish near a pond).
There are a few hills and quite a few turns. However, the times
are normally fast for this race.
Number of Runners: 150-225
Summary: This race is co-sponsored by the Montgomery County
Parks and ORRRC. This is one of the better
5k courses. |
Lou Cox Memorial 5K
Race/Distance: Lou Cox Memorial 5k
Location: Welcome Stadium (Dayton, OH)
Course: This is the fastest certified 5k course in the area and
maybe the state. The race begins on Edwin C. Moses and crosses the
Stewart St. bridge, turning right onto Patterson and turning around in
the park. The finish is the best feature. You make ¾ of a
loop around the track at Welcome Stadium and finish.
Number of Runners: 700-1000
Summary: Lou Cox is one of the best 5k’s in Ohio.
Traditionally run on Memorial Day, the race attracts top runners from
all over the state (as well as many walkers). The awards are
usually creative, and the post-race food is great. If you want to
try to set a PR, this is the race for you. |
Salem 5K
Race/Distance: Salem 5k
Location: Salem Church of God (Clayton/Englewood)
Course: The course is certified and begins and ends at the
church. It is not an out-and-back; however, you do repeat the
first 1000 meters of the course coming back. It is very shaded
(great for a summer race). It has a few hills, as well as some
nice downhills.
Number of Runners: 250-330
Summary: This was the most competitive small to medium sized 5k
in the Dayton Area last year. The race offers price money for the
top three male/female runners (Road Runner Sports), gift certificates to
the top three in standard age groups (On the Run), great post-race
food, and excellent door prizes. Early entry fee is $10, which
includes a t-shirt. The race director happens to be this web
site's creator. So I'm a little partial. Contact:
Byron Kimmel bkimmel2@woh.rr.com |
Independence 5K
Race/Distance: Independence 5k
Location: Tom Cloud Park (Huber Heights)
Course: One of the more challenging 5k courses in the Dayton
Area. Runners battle an uphill first mile and a tough hill in the
third mile. The start and finish are in the park, but the majority
of the race is run through the neighborhood south of the park.
Times are always slow on this certified course.
Number of Runners: 240-400
Summary: This race is co-sponsored by the ORRRC and Montgomery
County Metro Parks. Metro Park races are very organized and well
attended. The weather and
a tough course make this a challenging but fun race. There is
plenty of food after the race, and the entry fee is $10 including a
t-shirt. |
Americana Fourth of July 5K
Race/Distance: Americana Festival (Centerville) 5K
Location/Date: Centerville High School/4th of July
Course: Out and back, mostly flat with a stadium finish. The
course follows the parade route, which provides hundreds of spectators.
Number of Runners: 800
Summary: One of the area’s growing races, the Americana
Festival 5K draws a big and diverse field. Both families and
experienced runners toe the line for this holiday event. A crowded
start eventually thins out by the time runners get on the parade route
where spectators cheer on the field. The midway hairpin turn,
followed by an upgrade will draw groans from those who were aggressive
at the start. Henley shirts and unique awards are hallmarks of
this steamy tradition. After the race, runners can watch the
parade and stroll through the street fair. Looking for a good
sweat? This is your ticket! |
Neaton Auto Parts 5K
Race/Distance: Neaton 5k
Location: Neaton Auto Parts Plant (Eaton)
Course: The course begins and ends at the Neaton Plant.
You repeat only part of the course. It is a very flat and fast
course. Part of the course runs through downtown Eaton.
Number of Runners: 50-75
Summary: A nice small race. The race is in conjunction
with the Neaton Mud Volleyball Tournament. The entry fee is around
$10-12 and includes a shirt. |
Englewood Reserve 5K
Race/Distance: Englewood Reserve 5k
Location: Englewood Metro Park (Englewood)
Course: A very scenic and challenging course. The first
mile is downhill. The second mile is flat, but the last mile is a
tough. It’s all uphill, and these aren’t little hills.
The course is very shaded, which is great for a July race. It is
an out-and-back course.
Number of Runners: 200-325
Summary: Englewood Reserve offers a great running atmosphere.
There are many trails and paved bike paths to follow. This race
attracts excellent competition. The race boasted crafty awards and
plenty to eat and drink. |
Blazin Hot 5K
Race/Distance: Blazin Hot 5k
Location: University of Dayton
Course: The race starts on top of the big hill by Stewart Hall
(if your a UD alum, you know what I'm talking about). You head
down the hill into the UD ghetto. The course winds back into
campus and up the Stewart Hall hill. The good thing is you go back
down and finish in the parking lot. It’s a great course.
Number of Runners: 100-150
Summary: The race is sponsored by Building Bridges. The
entry fee of $15 includes: a shirt, great food, choice of pop or
beer, and a free concert after the race. The post-race activities
are excellent. It is a Friday evening run in August, thus the name
Blazin Hot. |
Englewood Classic 5K
Race/Distance: Englewood Classic 5k
Location: Downtown Englewood
Course: The course is fairly flat. The first mile is a
net downhill, but you have a slight uphill in the last mile. The
course boasts one of the better finishes of any race. It’s a
long straightaway along the parade route with hundreds of spectators.
For a flat course, the times at this race are never very fast. The
course is certified.
Number of Runners: 200-350
Summary: This is one of the opening events for the Englewood
Arts Festival. The race attracts a decent field with a good number
of runners. The awards presentation is held in the park (where the
festival takes place). The food after the race is
excellent. This is a great family event. The entry fee is
$10 with a shirt and $5 without one. |
Ralph E. Wade 5K
Race/Distance: Ralph E. Wade 5k
Location: Springboro Elementary (Springboro)
Course: The course has a nice mix of hills, downhills, and flat
straight-aways. The race begins next to the school, makes a loop
around country roads, and returns to the school and finishes. This
course is fairly fast.
Number of Runners: 80-140
Summary: This race is sponsored bye the Springboro Cross
Country team. The awards are handed out as you finish, and there’s
plenty of fruit and drink after the race. The entry fee is $12
with a shirt. The shirts at this race are nice. |
Patterson Park 5K
Race/Distance: Patterson Park 5K run
Location: Patterson Park Church in Beavercreek, OH
Course: The course is fairly flat, but the weather is usually
hot. You begin and end in the church parking lot. The
majority of the race is run through the adjoining residential area.
There are many turns and a minor hill in the second mile. Overall,
this is pretty fast course.
Number of Runners: 200-250
Summary: This race has continued to grow each year. The
church offers plenty of restroom facilities and parking. They
provide water and sports drinks, along with fruit after the run.
The field is very competitive. The race attracts many high school
and college runners. It's a nice event. |
Piqua Heritage Festival 5k
Race/Distance: Piqua Heritage Festival 5K
Location: North of Piqua on St. Rt. 66
Course: Out and back on scenic country roads. Mainly flat with a
few gradual hills.
Runners: 150-250
Summary: The race is held annually on the Saturday of Labor Day
Weekend in conjunction with the Piqua Heritage Festival. The race is
in its 19th year in 2002 and is sponsored by the Miami County YMCA. A
fun run of one mile precedes the 5K. The race has a reasonable entry
fee (pre-registration $12 with shirt/$8 without) and nice awards.
Top three male/female runners receive $75, $50, and $25 gift
certificates to Ernst Sporting Goods.
Contact: Donn Craig dcraig@miamicountyymca.net |
Holiday at Home 5K
Race/Distance: Kettering Holiday and Home 5K
Location/Date: Fairmont High School/Labor Day
Course: Holiday at Home is a great spectator course. The
course is certified and fairly flat. The start is on Far Hills Ave
close to Fairmont High School. You head up a slight incline and
make a right onto Dorothy Lane. You eventually end up on Far Hills
heading the opposite direction. You turn around in the
Town/Country shopping area and finish along the parade route in front of
the high school. The course is very fast (a great chance for a PR)
Number of Runners: 400-850
Holiday at Home 5K has been a mainstay of this Kettering tradition
for years. Run mostly on the parade route, this race draws
participants of all abilities and has many onlookers who just happen to
be getting ready for the festivities. This is a family favorite, as son
and daughter take on mom and dad. Other runners consider this one
as the first fall season race. Be ready for warm weather, an
uphill start and a post race pancake breakfast. Parade and other
activities last the entire day. The race director, who was once a decent
runner, puts on a good show. |
Beavercreek Popcorn Festival 5K
Race/Distance: Beavercreek Popcorn Festival 5k
Location: Beavercreek, OH
Course: The race begins on the corner of North Fairfield Rd.
and Dayton/Yellow Springs. The start is a slight downhill through
the festival grounds. You then head north into a nice residential
area. The finish is near a nice park. The course has some
rolling hills, but they aren’t killers.
Number of Runners: 175-250
Summary: Another excellent 5k run in the Dayton area. The
course is fun, the food is great (Donatos subs), and the awards are even
better (gift certificates to the Fairfield Commons Mall). |
Carol Wolff 5K for Women
Race/Distance: Carol Wolff 5k
Location: Dayton (Deweese Park)
Course: A flat course that runs through Deweese Park’s bike
path. You begin near the Ridge Ave. exit heading North. You
turn around a cone and head south to the bridge, turn around and finish
near the park entrance. It’s very flat.
Number of Runners: 200-350
Summary: This is Dayton’s only all female race. It
features nice t-shirts, quality goody bags, and great awards. The
women are treated like royalty by the nearly all male (dressed in tuxedo
shirts and shorts) event staff at this ORRRC race. The race
attracts some of the best female runners in the Dayton area. The
entry fee is $12. |
Deweese Park 5K
Race/Distance: Deweese 5k
Location: Dayton (Deweese Park)
Course: A flat course that runs through Deweese Park’s
bike-path. You begin near the Ridge Ave. exit heading North.
You turn around a cone and head south to the bridge, turn around and
finish near the park entrance. It’s very flat.
Number of Runners: 150-200
Summary: One of the many races held at Deweese. It is the
September team race for the ORRRC. Another low entry fee, and a
fast course attracts a good field. |
Miller Lite Lope 5K
Race/Distance: Miller Lite Lope 5k
Location: Miller Brewing Plant in Monroe (Middletown)
Course: The course begins in the plant parking lot. You
make two laps around the plant and finish near the entrance.
It’s a very flat course.
Number of Runners: 170-220
Summary: This race is sponsored by the Miller Brewing Company
and the Middletown Street Striders. The event boasts some of the
best door prizes (if you like Miller Lite) and long sleeve t-shirts.
The race is well-organized and begins on a Sunday afternoon. |
Ghost N Goblins 5K
|
Race/Distance:
5K
Location/Course: course starts at Patterson and Monument, runs north on
Riverside to Helena Street, right on Helena, right on Northern Blvd.
Along the river levy to Webster and right down to the River Corridor
Bikeway to the finish line at RiverScape.
Number of participants: 1800 – 2000, (last year over 1800
registrations, 300+ walkers)
Summary:
We again have luminaries, lit up pumpkins and Halloween decorations
along the course and spooky music playing.
Runners will come
dressed for running or be dressed up for Halloween.
Awards for
overall and age group winners( 5 deep, 28 divisions)
Top three
4-person teams in each division: Male, Female, & Co-ed.
Prizes for best
costumes (youth and adult categories), lots of door prizes.
High quality
embroidered long sleeve fleece shirts, Domino’s Pizza, O’Douls, soft
drinks, fruit, Hostess cakes and cookies for everybody.
This is an event
for runners of all ages and their families and for non-competitive
walkers. We are promoting running, walking, exercise and a healthy
lifestyle for all ages.
Five River
MetroParks and Montgomery county will present a Laser, Light and Sound
Show after the race.(Weather permitting) D.J. Glen Moore will provide
entertainment.
This is our 3rd
Annual fundraiser for Children’s Hospital.
For information call:
Ingrid Honzak,
937-223 6600, ihonzak@woh.rr.com
Or visit the
Ohio River Road Runners web site at http://www.orrrc.org
|
Jingle Bell 5K
Race/Distance: Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis 5K
Location: Downtown Dayton
Course: Course winds through the streets of downtown Dayton.
The course has a couple slight inclines and downhills. If the
weather is decent, the times are normally fast.
Number of Runners: 350-500
Summary: This is one of the many Jingle Bell runs across the
country. You can expect a big crowd and cold weather. There
is a costume contest and some interesting but festive awards for this
race. |
10K
Toledo Classic 10K
Race/Distance: Toledo 10K
Location/Date: Downtown Toledo
Course: Several slight inclines through the streets of downtown
Toledo. The finish is a slight downhill. Overall it is
pretty flat
Participants: 600-1100
Summary: The race was formally known as the Blade 10K and
crossed over the bridge, which made the course very tough. They no
longer do that. The race has prize money and is part of the
RunOhio grand prix. So expect a quality field when you do this
one. The Toledo Road Runners sponsor the race and do a nice
job. They have plenty of volunteers and great post-race
refreshments. The race is traditional run Labor Day weekend in
conjunction with Toledo's large festival on the lake. |
Oakwood 5K/10K
Race/Distance: Oakwood 10K/5K
Location/Date: Oakwood High School/Mid May
Course: Challenging 10K with a big hill, followed by long upgrade.
5K is rolling.
Participants: 150 for each race
Summary: Another historical event for the Dayton running scene,
the Oakwood 10k is considered the toughest Dayton course for the 6.2
mile distance. A rolling start is followed by a steep downhill,
unforgiving uphill, a mile long upgrade, and a slight downhill last
mile. Times are always slow. The rolling 5K is run at the same time as
the 10K, with the three mile runners taking a separate course after 1.5
miles. A pancake breakfast and other festivities contribute to
this “Day in May”, an annual event for this south Dayton suburb. |
Troy Strawberry Festival 10K
|
Race/Distance: Strawberry Festival/10K
Location: Troy, OH
Course: The race begins and finishes at Troy Stadium.
The race coincides with the
Strawberry Festival, now in it's 26th year. It is an
out-and-back looping course though rolling country roads. You finish
on the track in the Troy Stadium with running 3/4 on
the track.
Number of Runners: 465 the past 3 years
Summary: This early June Troy tradition is a fun event.
The race begins early enough (8:30) to sometimes avoid the heat
associated with June. More information can be found on this race
at www.troyohio.gov
|
Run for the Mums 10K
Race/Distance: Run for the Mums 10K
Location: Tipp City, OH
Course: Although this course has changed slightly over the last
few years, it typically is an out-and-back. The 2000 course
involved more hills than the 2001 course. It has started and
finished near TippCentral Intermediate School the last few years.
I should know, I teach 6th grade there.
Number of Runners: 150-250
Summary: This race has been around a long time and has run
numerous courses. Although the race is currently run in August, I
think it has been run in September. Because the race is now held
in August, it conveniently has an early start time to avoid the heat ( 8
a.m). This is a great race to begin building on longer
races. That is, most summer races are 5K's, and this is a nice
transition race into the typically longer fall races. The race
also offers nice awards such as flowers (Mums of course) and coffee
mugs. Also, they have given away some nice door prizes, such as a
bike. |
Minster Oktoberfest 10K
Race/Distance: Minster Oktoberfest 10K
Location: Minster High School (50 miles n of Dayton)
Course: This certified flat and fast course starts on the
northern edge of Minster in front of the high school. It then runs
through town and heads out into the country. It circles back to
the southern part of Minster, running through a few residential
neighborhoods, before finishing in a flurry at the downtown Oktoberfest
park.
Number of Runners: 2,000
Summary: A yearly family tradition for me. I have relatives in the
area, and every year I see numerous friends at the race. Minster is a
running community, and there is good crowd support at the start and
finish. There are 3 water stops, 2 bands, a half-a-dozen or so humorous
signs (including high and low elevation signs - what is that a 13 foot
difference?), and lots of stereos in the driveway blasting inspirational
music. After the race there is food, drink, crafts, dancing, and
numerous door prizes. This is a classic small town road race. |
Flying Pig 10K
Race/Distance: Flying Pig 10K
Location: Cincinnati (Paul Brown Stadium)
Course: Course is very similar to the Thanksgiving Day 10K in
Cincinnati. The race starts about 400 meters up from the Marathon
start near Paul Brown Stadium. The first mile takes you near the
finish then up through the downtown. Miles 2-4 are full of rolling
hills but nothing too taxing. Mile 5 finishes in a long
straight tunnel (really cool). You eventually make your way back
through the starting area and head towards Sawyer Point. You
finish in the same place as the marathon. I really enjoyed the
course. It was challenging but fairly fast.
Number of Runners: 300-600
Summary: 2003 was the first year for the 10K. It had been a 5
miler. You get great fan support, chip timing, and quality
post-race refreshments. It's definitely worth the $20-25 entry
fee. |
Tadmor 10K
Race/Distance: Tadmor 10K
Location: Taylorsville Metropark Huber Heights
Course: The race begins at the main entrance of the metropark
and runs along the bikepath turning around near the old ruins of Tadmor.
It is a fast course
Number of Runners: 150-200
Summary: This is the August team race for the ORRRC. It is a
well run event with a ton of door prizes and great food. |
8K/5 Mile
Frostbite 5 Miler
Race/Distance: Frostbite 5 mile
Location: Centerville High School
Course: The race course is certified and runs through the
neighborhood adjacent to Centerville high school. The course
features some moderate hills and several turns. The starting line
is located west side of the school; the finish line is in the back
parking lot. It is not a super-fast course.
Number of Runners: 250-400
Summary: Frostbite is traditionally run in late February.
It features one of the strongest fields of the season. It is also
the first ORRRC team race, which means a cheap entry fee (no shirts).
You can count on lots of food and plenty to drink after the race. |
Granville Firecracker 5 Miler
Race/Distance: Granville 5 Miler
Location/Date: Denison University (Granville, OH) July 4th
Course: The course begins near the University tennis courts.
The first two miles are gradually uphill. You'll turn around
shortly after mile two and head back, which gives you a slight downhill
for miles three and four. However, mile five has a couple of good
hills for you. The heat makes this even tougher. You'll
finish in downtown Granville in the festival area. The heat and
the hills will slow your time a bit.
Number of Runners: 500-600
Summary: The Granville Rotary Club sponsors the race.
They've been hosting the 5 Miler for 30 years. The race is in
conjunction with the Granville Fourth of July Festival, which makes the
fan support excellent. The local bakery supplies bagels for the
runners after the race. They have plenty of water and a cool-off
fountain for runners. If your sick of 5K's and want to race on the
fourth, the Firecracker 5 is a good one. You can expect about an
hour and fifteen minute drive to Granville from Dayton. The race
usually has a strong field as well as nice and plain T-shirts. For
more info click: Premier
Races |
Brookville Picnic 5 Miler
Race/Distance/Director: Brookville Picnic Run / 5
Miler / Dick Baker – Race Director
Location: Golden Gate Park Brookville, OH
Course: Gently rolling loop course covering a mile or so of country
roads. The remainder of the course is run on city streets throughout the
community. There are two decent hills in mile 3 and 4. The
course is certified.
Number of Runners: 150-250
Summary: This race has been run for eleven years. This
race is a nice change of pace from the typical 5K distance, usually run
in the summer months. The race begins early enough (8 a.m.) to
sometimes avoid the heat associated with July. It is very well
organized and includes a nicely designed t-shirt. The Picnic Run
also includes great music and post race food such as watermelon.
Finally, for those gifted runners at the front of the pack, there’s a
good chance you’ll go home with a wonderful award such as a picnic
basket made by Longerberger. Don’t worry if you’re not so
fleet on foot, there are always plenty of door prizes for most everyone. |
ORRRC Turkey Trot 5 Miler
Race/Distance: ORRRC Turkey Trot 5 Miler
Location: Downtown Miamisburg
Course: The course begins near the Baum opera house. It
heads through downtown and out to the country. You turn around
near baseball diamonds and head back downtown. The finish is nice
long straightaway with hundreds of spectators. It is very flat and
fast. It is certified.
Number of Runners: 3,000-5,000
Summary: The Turkey Trot is “The event” in running for the
Dayton area. It has continued to grow the last decade. The
start is always cramped, but it’s definitely worth it. The race
attracts top competition and thousands of casual runners. The
post-race party is always part of the attraction. |
15K
Super Sunday 15K
Race/Distance: Super Sunday 15K, 5K
Location: Dublin
Course: The 15k is the main event. The course begins in a
beautiful park and winds it’s way through country roads. It is
flat and an out-and-back course.
Number of Runners: 100-150 15k, 50-75 5k
Summary: This is another event in the Columbus Premier racing
circuit. If you like this distance, it is worth the trip.
They offer excellent goody bags, long sleeve shirts, and good
refreshments. http://www.premierraces.com |
Spring Valley 15K
Race/Distance: Spring Valley / 15K
Location: Spring Valley
Course: Bike Path – Out and Back – Pancake Flat
Number of Runners: 150
Summary: This was the last team race of the ORRRC team
competition. This race is a great value ($2 for club members $6
for non-members) since it is part of the ORRRC supported race series.
As always, the ORRRC does a nice job with race organization and post
race food, etc. This race is a great opportunity to run a PR (at
the rarely run 15K distance). The November weather can sometimes
be a little unpredictable. In 2001, the weather was just great and
PRs were plentiful! |
Cincinnati Mini-Heart 15K
Race/Distance: Cincinnati Mini-heart 15K
Location/Date: Downtown Cincinnati/Late March
Course: Relentless out and back. Hilly if you’re from Dayton;
rolling for those from Boulder.
Participants: 2000-5000
Summary: The historic Mini-heart presents one of the biggest
challenges for runners in the Miami Valley. While no single hill
will bring the seasoned runner to his/her knees, the never-ending series
of rises and dips eventually wear on the body. An added attraction
is the head wind during the last half of the race. Competition
will be tough. Some of the nation’s best have run this one.
Post race treats are good and the atmosphere at Fountain Square is very
upbeat. A strong effort at this race leaves the runner a real
sense of accomplishment. For those looking for a shorter
challenge, the Heart Association also sponsors a 5K which is run prior
to the longer race. |
Half-Marathons
State-to-State Half Marathon
Race/Distance: State-to-State Half-Marathon and
5K
Location/Date: Uptown parks, Oxford/Late September
Course: In this inaugural event, the course, will begin and end at the
Uptown Parks in the center of Oxford. The route will go west out of
the city along Contreras Pike, into Indiana, and then back to Oxford
again. Along the way, it will loop around the Stone Creek and Oxford
Knolls subdivisions. The course is mostly flat, with a couple of
gradual hills. The last two miles are mostly downhill, which
allows you to catch your breath a little for a strong finish. The last
half mile is uphill, but nothing really steep.
Participants: 300 - 500 expected for the half. 200 for the 5K
Summary: Oxford, OH, home to one of the country’s most beautiful
college campuses and uptown plazas/venues, is the site of a brand new
race, The State-to-State half-marathon; which will be held on Sunday,
September 21, 2003 beginning at 8:30 am. The idea for this race began
as an American Discovery Trail and Ohio Bicentennial event. Oxford was
chosen as a location due to its position along the coast-to-coast
American Discovery Trail. The fact that Oxford sits 5 miles from the
Indiana state line allows for an “interstate” course. Net Proceeds
from this race will benefit both the American Discovery Trail and
Oxford Area Trails. For questions or to register for this race visit www.statetostate.org. |
ORRRC Half-Marathon
Race/Distance: ORRRC Xenia Marathon and Half-Marathon
Location: Xenia (based in the Holiday Inn on Business Route US 35)
Course: Both races start out behind the Holiday Inn. The race
begins with a seven mile loop through the city of Xenia,
then the course travels out and back along the Little Miami Bike Trail.
The certified course is a Boston Marathon qualifier.
Number of Runners: 300-750
Summary: In recent years, the course has been changed (the first year
in Xenia it was all on the bike path), the date has been changed (from
March to April), and the emphasis has been changed (it shifted from the
marathon to the half-marathon), but it's still a relatively nice club
race at the end of winter. I find the race a good motivation for long
runs during the winter. The race offers prize money to the top
five male/female runners in the half-marathon. It normally
attracts a strong field. |
Dayton River Corridor
Race/Distance: WB26 Dayton River Corridor Classic Half
Marathon and Miami Valley Hospital Sports Medicine Center 5K
Location/Date: Just south of downtown Dayton at University of Dayton
Arena/Welcome Stadium/Late September
Course: Flat and fast on city streets and Miami River bikeway. 5K is
flat, out and back.
Participants: 1000 for the half. 250 for 5K
Summary: The Corridor continues to shine as a bright spot for
area runners. A world record was once set on the Corridor, a race
ranked years ago as one of the best in the country. Enduring only
half the pain, the Corridor runner is treated with amenities normally
found only at a big city marathon. Complete with high quality
give-aways, finishing medals, unique awards, and a post race party,
Corridor participants limp away with plenty of goods and sense of
accomplishment for their entry fee. This race is for both the
experienced competitor as well as the runner/walker who is seeking a
personal challenge. For many, the Corridor is “the race” to
run in Dayton. A strong contingent from Cincinnati usually makes
the trip up I-75 for this southwest Ohio favorite.
This is a formal training/prep run for the Columbus Marathon and
several other Fall marathons. |
Parkersburg
Race/Distance: Parkersburg Half-Marathon
Location: Parkersburg, West Virginia
Course: A loop course that starts downtown by city hall along
the Ohio River and finishes a block away. There are a variety of
sections including a quite a few hills early in the race. You run on
blacktop, cement, and cobblestone surfaces. You run through the downtown
area, an industrial area, a few residential / retail areas and then
return to an older housing area as you re-enter downtown for one last
hill and a mile long straight away to the finish line
Number of Runners: 1,000
Summary: Regardless of what the entry form says this is a hilly
course and since it's held in August it can also be very hot and humid.
The neat thing about this race is that it is used as the national
Half-Marathon Championships. The heat and early hills got to me and I
was surprised by the uneveness of the cobblestone streets near the end
especially when going downhill. Still, while not being a PR type of
course it is rare long race in this area in August. The race is part of
a large weekend festival held near the start and finish areas. |
Indy 500 Festival
Race/Distance: Indy 500 Festival Half-Marathon/5K
Location: Downtown Indianapolis, IN
Course: The race begins with a dual start in downtown Indianapolis
and heads toward Indianapolis Motor Speedway. After reaching the
Speedway, you’ll complete one lap around the track on the inside apron
and then head back downtown for a fantastic fan filled finish at
Military Park, just blocks from the starting line. The course is
very flat and with a little weather cooperation, a PR is a definite
possibility.
Number of Runners: 20,000
Summary: This early May Indianapolis tradition is an awesome event.
The race provides a perfect balance between competition and fun.
Runners wishing to compete without battling the large field at the start
can submit times from previous races (at various distances) and receive
acceptance into special seeding areas. This allows the more
competitive runners to get a jump on the huge field. The average
fun runner will also love the fan support and music, which line the
course. More information can be found on this race at http://www.500festival.com |
Columbus
Race/Distance: Columbus Half-Marathon (and 5K)
Location: Scioto Downs Race Track (about 15 miles south of
Columbus)
Course: An out and back course on rural roads and through the small
an depressing town of Lockbourne. You can count on a few hills at the
start and the finish. Only a few water stops
Number of Runners: 300
Summary: This fall marathon tune up race was better when it was
held at a dam north of Columbus. There are not enough water stops or
shade on this course. There is no crowd support and traffic on one of
the roads was heavy. The food and drink afterwards were good but the
awards and shirts were skimpy. |
MARATHONS
Columbus
Race/Distance: Columbus Marathon
Location: Columbus, Ohio (downtown)
Course: The relatively flat cloverleaf course (there are a few long
inclines between 18 and 22) starts at the corner of Broad and High
Streets and finish next to the new Nationwide Area just west of High
Street, about 8 blocks from the start.
Number of Runners: 3,000
Summary: The race is advertised as being fast, flat, and
friendly. And it is! The date (currently the3rd Sunday in October) and
course has changed some over the years but it basically is a nice city
marathon. You run through downtown Columbus, German Village, The Art
District, the OSU campus area, and a couple of suburbs. Crowd support
has improved in recent years and is always strong in the downtown
section (which you pass through 4 times), Bexley, German Village, and
parts of Upper Arlington. The bag of goodies, for runners have improved
but the runners’ expo, the shirts, and the medals have been nothing
special. The marathon also features two different types of
marathon relays and a 5k the night before. |
Ontario Shore
Race/Distance: Ontario Shore Marathon
Location: Hamlin State Park (About 15 miles NW of Rochester,
NY)
Course: The world's flattest loop course. I mean pancake flat - there
were two inclines - and those were freeway overpasses. You run on park
roads and through a few small rural towns. The roads are all blacktop
with usually about a foot of packed dirt / gravel on the Bern, they are
wide enough, flat enough, and firm enough to run on for about 2/3's of
the race. The course is surprisingly scenic because of the lake and the
spring flowers. The race is held the first week of May and there is also
a relay and a 2.62 mile 10% marathon.
Number of Runners: 400
Summary: This Rochester area club race also donates its’ proceeds
to the Arthritis Foundation. It is well organized and had more plenty of
fluid stops. It’s a very friendly race. The race directors delivered
you runners bag to your hotel. They had busses to take you to and from
the race site. If you drove there was plenty of parking. There were
almost no cars on the roads during the race and where there were
intersections there were always plenty of police. The crowd support was
also a positive surprise. The medal and shirt were nice. They had the
best free food, (hot soup, sandwiches, pizza, cookies, energy/recovery
drinks) I've ever had after a race. And, best of all, free post-race
massages! A long drive from Dayton but a nice small club race! |
Flying Pig
Race/Distance: Flying Pig Marathon
Location: Cincinnati Ohio
Course: The race started downtown by Fountain Square. It was a loop
course through a variety of Cincy neighborhoods and Covington and
Newport Kentucky. The course is hilly and interesting. The bridges and
hills are scattered through out the course but most of the tougher
climbs are during the first half of the race.
Number of Runners: 4,000
Summary: This race in early May was very organized and
friendly. Crowd support is strong throughout the race except for an
industrial area at about the 20-22 mile area. They had plenty of fluids,
vaseline, bandages, bands, and people dress up like "flying
pigs". The post race party was great lots of free food and drink.
The area was separated from where non-racers were waiting which was a
drag, but they may have changed in the past few years since they have
changed the finish area. The runners' expo, the free gear, and
finisher's medal were well done. I was most impressed by there
organization in their first year - and you can't beat the name. |
Smokey Mountain
Race/Distance: Smoky Mountain Marathon
Location: Townsend, TN (about 25 miles south of Knoxville or 25
miles West of Gatlinburg)
Course: The start and finish areas are on the main drag in
Townsend. It's a hilly course that is basically a loop with two out and
back tails.
Number of Runners: 500
Summary: The name suggests it's not a flat PR type of course. Then
again, much of the course runs along rivers and creek, and you only wind
around two or three good-sized hills (or mountains depending on your
physical condition at the time). The race is sponsored by the Knoxville
Track Club it is pretty well organized with a very limited number of
spectators on the course. There is also a 4 mile race, which is
surprisingly flat. Being relatively close to Gatlinburg during the
winter, means you can find a place to stay relatively cheaply and a
variety of places to eat, drink, and relax after the race. |
Air Force Marathon
Race/Distance: United States Air Force Marathon
Location: Dayton (Wright Patterson)
Course: It is a Boston Marathon certified qualifier loop course
where the first and last 5 miles are out back. Those first (and last) 5
miles are also where most of the hills are located. The course is
clearly marked and well supported
Number of Runners: about 1,000
Summary: I like the idea of having a nationally recognized marathon
in Dayton in the fall, but at the end of September it's still just too
hot and too humid to run a fast marathon. Add in the hills / overpasses
and the open exposure during much of the course - this is a challenging
race. However, it is very organized - medical help and fluid stations
everywhere. Crowd support is sporadic but enthusiastic, even the Hash
House Harriers are there offering people refreshment (beer at the 23
mile mark?). The medals and shirts are great. Overall, this is a good
thing for the Dayton running community. |
Chicago
Race/Distance: Chicago Marathon
Location: Grant Park - Downtown Chicago (lakefront)
Course: This is a flat and fast course. World records have been set
here. The course is a loop and goes through a variety of neighborhoods
using wide streets that have been closed to traffic. In almost all
neighborhoods the crowd support is great. There are plenty of fluid
stops along the way.
Number of Runners: 30,000
Summary: A great world-class race, just a five-hour drive from
Dayton. The whole experience was pleasant. They had busses going to and
from the registration and expo. The runners’ expo is huge, the city
enjoys the race and spectators are enthusiastic and supportive. The
variety of neighborhoods is a highlight. In South Chicago, at the
20-mile mark, they built a brick wall - which we ran through - and
passed out water and fruit slices as the music blared. The Chicago
Marathon is one of my favorites. |
Detroit Free Press
Race/Distance: Detroit Free Press Marathon
Location: Detroit, Michigan / Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Course: It's a flat (the bridge and the tunnel feature the
steepest climbs) course that loops around both the American side and
Canadian side. Surprisingly scenic for an urban marathon, thanks to the
lakes and rivers, and islands of the area.
Number of Runners: 4,000
Summary: An amazing course route design - how often can you run a
race in two countries. As downtown Detroit has undergone a renaissance,
as downtown Windsor has boomed because of the casino, the course has
changed to highlight the best of both cities. You start in Downtown
Detroit, you run over the Ambassador Bridge into Windsor, through a
neighborhood or two along the lake and river front past and circle back
through the casino area and back into Detroit via the Tunnel. Once back
in the states you tour a few neighborhoods of Detroit, run around Greek
Town and the new baseball stadium before heading out to do a loop of
Belle Island and then back on the mainland for a finish at a lakeside
park. This course has changed from year to year but it is always flat
with lots of fluid stops, port-a-johns, and decent crowd support. The
runners expo was great, the medals were multi-colored and the staff /
volunteers most helpful during the race weekend. |
New York City
Race/Distance: New York City Marathon
Location: The Five boroughs of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the
Bronx, and Manhattan.
Course: A surprisingly hilly course. The first mile is uphill
on the bridge. The finish is (or use to be) over a series of hills in
Central Park including a slopping incline the last ¼ mile of the race.
Number of Runners: 30,000
Summary: You have to enter a lottery (in the spring) to get into this
race held the first Sunday of November, if you can't pick up an entry
form in Central Park. Once you get selected, you then have to deal with
the logistic of getting there, finding a place to stay and getting back
home -but the info they send makes it pretty easy. The expo was huge -
but difficult to get into and very crowded once you got inside. The bus
trip to the starting line was fine but the wait before the start was too
long. It was difficult to drop off your gear and to get it back at the
end of the race. But the logistics of moving 30,000 bags of personal
running gear in 3 hours can't be easy. I'll never forget the world's
largest urinal in between the guys starting corrals or the thousands of
clothes thrown into the trees at the start. The course can be a
demanding one but it is packed with spectators and you run through a
plethora of ethnic neighborhoods. There are volunteers everywhere.
Fluids, foods, bandages, vaseline, and medical help all over the place..
This is a great large urban marathon - everybody should do it once. |
Boston
Race: Boston Marathon
Location: Boston, MA
Course: The course is a point-to-point beginning in far-flung Hopkinton
and ending in the same place it has for over 100 years - in front of the
Boston Public Library.
Number of Entrants: Capped at 15,000 except for the hundredth running in
1996 (ca. 25,000 ran then)
Summary: What hasn't been said about this classic? In order to step up
to the starting line, one needs to run and prove a qualifying time - or
fork over some cash to buy an entry number - or join the Boston Athletic
Association - or perhaps in some other creative way. The race is run on
the second Monday in April, a.k.a., Patriot's Day in MA. Everyone is off
work, so the event is a big party. The noon start - the biggest negative
of the race, in my mind - means plenty of "well-stoked" fans.
Fan support is un-real, though. I don't recall more than 100 feet or so
where people did not line the course. This is basically unheard-of for a
race of this distance. And you will not believe how loud the women of
Wellesley College cheer for each runner at about the half-way point -
you have to run it to believe it. The starting line itself is on a very
narrow street, but the corral system (i.e., the 1000s have a corral,
then the 2000s and so on) is strictly enforced and keeps things orderly.
Championchip timing keeps your time realistic. But do not expect to PR
this race. From Mile Marker 18 to Mile Marker 21 - ending at infamous
Heartbreak Hill near Boston College -the incline is nearly continuous.
After that, it's all slightly downhill into Boston - like that makes a
difference at this point in a marathon! The only other significant
negative was a very cramped finish area. But overall, from the expo to
the transportation (buses take you from your hotel in Boston to the
start), to the gear check system (very simple, but effective) - the
Boston Marathon lives up to its reputation. |
TRAIL
Germantown Trail Runs
Race/Distance: Germantown Trail (7 miles and / or
14 miles)
Location: Germantown Reserve (NW of Germantown, which is about
15 miles South of Dayton)
Course: The course starts and ends at a Cottonwood
picnic/shelter area near the nature center. The race follows a variety
of trails clearly marked by brightly colored ribbons on trees. It is
very, very hilly. The
footing can be tricky when crossing creeks or snow patches. The
course is out-and-back and then repeated with water at both ends.
Number of Runners: About 150 for both races
Summary: This is an ORRRC sponsored race the first week or so
of March. There is a very relaxed atmosphere, and the post race
treats and rewards are worth it. Because it's a trail run -during
the winter- over a very challenging course - expect to be humbled by you
pace per mile average. Still, it's a fun and scenic way to break
up the winter. |
Carriage Hill Trail Run
Race/Distance: Carriage Hill Trail Run 5k
Location: Carriage Hill Metro Park (Huber Heights)
Course: If you enjoy trail running, you gotta run this race!
Carriage Hill Farm offers an excellent running setting. It’s
very shaded and challenging. The first 100 meters of the race
includes a 90-degree turn. This is a great place to do a long
training run, trails everywhere!
Number of Runners: 160-220
Summary: A great changeup for a consistent road runner.
This is one of several ORRRC trail runs (Sugarcreek, Twin Creek, Possum
Creek). The entry is $2-5, no shirt. |
DIAA Cross Country 5K
Race/Distance: DIAA Cross Country 5k
Location: Kettering (Indian Ripple Park)
Course: The race is run on one of the more popular Cross
Country courses in the Dayton area. It includes a very challenging
hill, a run through the woods/orchard, a couple creeks to cross, and a
flat finish.
Number of Runners: 80-120
Summary: The race is home to the corporate road racing
championship sponsored by the DIAA. A fun course, great awards
(gift certificates), excellent food (Papa Johns Pizza), and a low entry
fee, make this an excellent event. If you’re looking for an
off-road race, you’ll like this one. |
PKD Cross Country 5K
Race/Distance: PKD Cross Country 5k
Location: Gahanna Golf Course
Course: The race is run entirely on the golf course, which is
fairly flat. You’ll make two loops around the golf course and
finish near the club house.
Number of Runners: 170-220
Summary: The final race in the Columbus circuit. The race
offers a nice changeup to traditional road races. Panera Bread
sponsors the race and provides the post-race refreshments, which are
excellent. It’s worth the drive if you like off-road racing.
http://www.premierraces.com |
Possum Creek Trail 5K
Race/Distance: Possum Creek 5K
Location: Possum Creek Metro Park in Germantown, OH
Course: If you like varying terrain, this is your race.
The course is relatively flat for a trail run. You'll run on
gravel, sand, grass, dirt, and a little mud. A very scenic
run. The race starts and finishes near the shelter area.
Number of Runners: 100-200
Summary: One of the ORRRC's many trail races, Possum Creek
supplies runners with great scenery and some challenging running
surfaces. If your a trail runner, don't miss this one. |
Run Through the Woods 5K
Race/Distance: Run Through the Woods 5K
Location: West Milton
Course: A flat course that begins one block off of St. Rt. 48 and
leads the runners to Lowry Park, where you enter the woods just past the
2 mile mark. The next mile is on the High School cross country course,
which slows things down; then back on the pavement to the start/finish
line.
Number of Runners: 125-150
Summary: The Run Through the Woods is a 5k Run/Walk held in
conjunction with the Fourth of July Festival in West Milton.
This is a fun race, featuring a flat run with a loop “through
the woods” behind the Lowry Compex in West Milton.
The proceeds from the race go towards West Milton’s Annual
Fireworks display. The race
is usually held on the first Saturday after the Fourth of July, but
check local race calendars for the exact date.
At the 2003 event, 140 runners came out and had fun in the rain!
Storms the night before downed a large tree right across the
path, making for a nice “obstacle” on the trail portion of the race.
http://www.geocities.com/westmiltontriathlon/5k |
MISCELLANEOUS
Columbus 30K
Race/Distance: Columbus 30K (and 5k)
Location: Hillard Davidson High School (15 miles west of
Columbus)
Course: This late September race is relatively flat and
features an out and back course that utilizes a cushioned high school
track, neighborhood roads, a bike path, and rural roads.
Number of Runners: 200
Summary: The 30k is an unusual distance. It’s designed to be used
as a training run for a fall marathon. The course was well laid out
(except for the cramped start on the high school track). There was
plenty of water stops, port-a-johns, and people yelling out splits on
roads that had almost no traffic. The post race food and drink were
plentiful and most people hung out in the stadium and cheer on other
runners as they ran a lap on the great high school track to the finish
line. |
Tom Miller 15 Miler
Race/Distance: Columbus Road Runners' Pickerington 15
Miles
Location: Pickerington High School (East of Columbus)
Course: The course is certified and runs the “ever growing”
housing plats of suburban Pickerington and rural roads. The
out-and-back certified course features rolling hills and usually cold
head winds for last half of the race. The start and finish areas are in
the school parking lot. There is also a 3 mile race.
Number of Runners: 250 (15 miles) 75 (3 miles)
Summary: The race is typically held on the last Sunday of
January, but it may be moved to the first Sunday in February. You
get a nicely designed sweatshirt with a winter theme and a variety of
hot and cold foods after the race in the high school cafeteria while
supporting a local running club. |
West Milton Triathlon
Race/Distance: West Milton Triathlon (4 mile
canoe, 5 mile run, 17 mile bike)
Course: Are you ready to take a break from pounding the pavement? Need
to add some cross-training to your summer workouts? Consider the West
Milton Triathlon. This is a canoe, run, and bike combination that people
of all fitness levels participate in, while many of the top triathletes
from this region are challenged by the competition. The West Milton
Track Club organizes the triathlon with the proceeds being used to
support the team and provide scholarships. The event is held in the park
located on St. Rt. 571 on the East side of West Milton where there is
plenty of parking and lots of fruit and fluid for after the race.
Number of Runners: 120-140 two person teams
Summary: The West Milton Triathlon is a multi-sport event
opening with a 4 mile canoe, followed by a 5 mile run and ending with a
17 mile bike. The event is
held on the third Saturday of July each year.
West Milton Park is the location for the staging, the canoe
launch, the transition from run to bike and the post-race festivities.
2003 marked the 20th year for this great triathlon.
It was also the largest field ever, with 341 participants.
With the exception of a few “solo” competitors who furnish
their own canoe, this is a team event.
Partners canoe down the Stillwater River together, but after the
canoe, some teams will split up, others will stay together.
Team time, the sum of adding the two individual times together,
is used to determine the winner in Male/Male, Male/Female,
Female/Female, Masters (Combined age of 80+) and Parent/Child divisions.
2003 marked the first year to use ‘chip timing’ and the first
year for race director, Jeff Coudron.
The West Milton Track Club had run the triathlon for many years
and decided to drop the event. Jeff,
who has raced in all sorts of triathlons, marathons and other trail and
road races and lives on the run and bike course, realized what a great
event this is for the competitors and the community, and offered to take
it over. In 2003, the event
raised over $2000 for charities including Shaklee Cares and Team in
Training. T-shirts were
printed by a West Milton Printer, Shumaker Screen Printing.
Canoes are provided by Barefoot Canoes.
Other sponsors include West Milton McDonalds, Fox Pizza Den, Mr.
Deals Grocery Store and more have already signed up to sponsor the 2004
event. This event fills
every year and is limited because of canoe availability so sign up early
to guarantee your spot. It
is sure to be a lot of fun and memorable race. http://www.geocities.com/westmiltontriathlon |
Little Miami 10 Miler
Race/Distance: Little Miami 10 miler
Location: Yellow Springs
Course: This 10 mile race is along the YS and Xenia Bikeway,
which is very flat. This is an out-and-back course.
Number of Runners: 100-200
Summary: This is an excellent race to use as an early season
training run. It usually attracts quality competition. The
entry fee is cheap ($2-5), and registration is held at the Bryan Center. |
Arnold Pump and Run
Race/Distance: Arnold Pump and Run 5k
Location: Downtown Columbus
Course: Race begins and ends at the Columbus Convention Center.
The course moves through the streets of downtown Columbus. It is
flat.
Number of Runners: 400-800
Summary: This was a new event last year. The Pump and Run
involves weight-lifting and running. You weigh in, see how many
times you can bench your weight, and then run a 5k. The number of
reps you bench subtracts time from your 5k. Arnold shoots the
starting gun but doesn't stick around for the awards (bummer). |
Germantown Country Classic 17K
Race/Distance: Germantown Country Classic 17K
Location: Germantown
Course: One of the most challenging courses in the Dayton area,
this course runs over rolling (I mean rolling) country roads. It
is an out-and-back course. So, the hills you went up on the way
out, are downhills on the way back, however, you may have some
killer uphills waiting for you on your return.
Number of Runners: 100-200
Summary: If you like a challenge, this is your race. The
country classic is the October team race ($2-5 entry fee) for the ORRRC.
The course leads you through some excellent fall scenery. |
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