5K Fever!

  I've been enjoying my weekly runs in some nice, balmy 30-45 degree weather lately. Okay, so that's not exactly a heat wave, but it sure is a hopeful sign that spring is near in Minnesota. All of this sun and warm weather has gotten me into the running groove. I've been planning to run 'The Color Run' in the Twin Cities with a couple of friends for a few months now.  Still, I can't help scanning the internet for other fun 5K's to keep me motivated throughout the spring and summer seasons. That's precisely why I've decided to write this post.

  I have for you all a list of what I consider some of the most fun and interesting 5K runs in Minnesota starting this month and going all through the summer. I encourage you to register for one that I've provided in my list, or do your own research and find one that you like! 5K's are a great way to help you achieve goals. Not to mention, they're a fun and an entirely different experience from running on your own, or socially with your friends/running group. I encourage you all take a gander at my list, enter an event, and reap the rewards of running a race--whether you're doing it for competition or plain ol' fun! Remember, whether you're just starting out or you've been running for a while most 5K's are for runners of all capabilities--so don't hesitate to run if you think you won't "do well". If you're not comfortable running one alone, form a team and agree that you will all run or walk together. Come on, give it a shot!


Please, feel free to add any other fun 5K runs that I may have missed in the comments!

--2013 5K Runs in MN--

For the Sports Fanatic: April 6th- Runnin' With the Wolves 5K
-Includes T-shirt and MN Timberwolves ticket
-Meet the T-wolves' mascot Crunch!
-Post-race celebration

For the Sweets-Craver: April 6th- Chocoholic Frolic
-Includes really nice zip up race pull over and sling backpack
-Forget water and fruit at the race stands. Think hot cocoa, chocolate fountains, and chocolate candies! mmmm.

For the Horror Movie/Zombie Fanatic: April 26th- Mankato Zombie Run
-Choose to be a human or zombie
-Bands and Beer
-Cool set props for the full post-apocalyptic experience!

For the Party-Animal: May 10th- The Rave Run
-A nighttime run featuring lights and electronica music.
-Includes t-shirt, LED bracelet, glow glasses, and glow necklace

For the Animal Lover: May 19th- Wag, Walk, and Run
-Bring your dog!-"six-legged" teams (you + your pooch) are welcome.
-Includes t-shirt and doggie bandana
- Helps raise money for 'Helping Paws'- a program for service dogs

For the Night Owl: May 31st- Electric Run
- Artists and lighting technicians come together to create a unique and exciting light course to run through.
- Live DJ's create mixes that sync with the lights!
-Includes t-shirt, LED bracelet, glow glasses and necklace.

For the One Who's Not Afraid To Get Dirty: June 1st- Mud Factor Run
- An obstacle run that features: climbing walls, slip n' slide, mud crawl, and much more.
-Yes, you're running through mud!
- Free bandana, plus plenty of merchandise available if participants wish to purchase a shirt or other memorabilia.

For the Beer Connoisseur or the Bar Fly- June 6th- Beer Run!
-The further you run, the more free beer you get!
- Considered an "un-race!" :) It's not timed, there are not medals at the end, and there won't be many spectators--but you do get free beer!

For the Dog Lover: June 8th- Dog Day 5K
-Dog friendly 5K
-Demonstrations, performances, and adoptions
-Includes a t-shirt with a pretty darn cool logo and a charm/tag for your dog's collar.

For the Vikings Fan: June 16th- Grid Iron Gallop
-Viking player and cheerleader appearances
-All racers are eligible to win Viking prizes
-Includes T-shirt

For the GLBT Pride Supporter: June 23rd- Twin Cities Pride 5K
- Guaranteed to be colorful.
-Runs during the Twin Cities Pride Festival so be sure to check out the parade, food stands/vendors, and entertainment!


For the Alternate Era Admirer: June 29th- Retro Run 5K 
- Wear your favorite "retro clothing"!
- Includes T-shirt



--Challenge Races (Longer Distances, Adventure, Obsticale, Terrain, etc.)---

For the Rugged, Manly-Man or Kick-Ass Girl: April 13th The Hammer Race
-BYOH  Bring your own hammer
-Run around through obstacles and on various terrain with a heavy hammer
-Includes a very tough looking long sleeve shirt.

For the Persistent One: June 1st-2nd- FANS 12 &24 Hr. Race
-Yep, that's right. Run for either 12 hrs or 24 hrs straight!
- Helps raise money for the FANS scholarship fund (Furthering Achievement through a Network of Support)



More to come soon!