Over the past couple of years, I have done a lot of researching of runs in different states. There are many ways of going about this. It helps to know people in the running community who can help to give you race suggestions, or be a member of a running club such as the 50 States Half Marathon Club, of which I happen to be a member, or using internet searches. Each way has is own benefits and limitations.
Members in running clubs are happy to give race tips on places and runs they liked or didn’t like. You can be sure to have some experienced runners inform you on what is good or bad about a specific race. They do have experience but are certainly not an all inclusive source of information and may not look at all races objectively.
Being part of the club ensures that there is a large pool of knowledge when it comes to finding some good races. You might even be able to find some traveling companions. I have seen people ask if other racers are going to the same course and would like to split costs of hotels as it can get pricy traveling to run out of state. This can help you pick which race to do if the ultimate goal is just to complete a race in that particular state. I like to go for a bit of a vacation though, so this is not the way I would necessarily chose.
The group I am a member of also has a list of discounts for members only and it usually doesn’t cost much to be a member of a running club. There is also a list of races, which members are able to alter, to let others know which runs they are doing. Why not go to a race where you might make friends from your club. I sure have!
One of my favorite ways of finding races is simply by searching the internet for available races. There are plenty or websites that have lists of upcoming races, usually up to a year in advance. Some can be difficult to navigate. I like halfmarathons.net. This website is set up very well and has a long list of races in each state. It gives a great description of the race and the race course. There is a link to the actual race site on the website as well so you can sign up. It isn’t all inclusive either. I am sure there are other half marathons which aren’t listed.
There are plenty of websites which specialize in specific types of races. Not everyone wants to run a half-marathon, although for the life of me, I don’t know why. Some might want to run a 5k or a 10k, others might only be interested in full marathons or ultras. Believe me, there are websites for everyone with lists in each state.
When I am searching for races, I generally cross check with my group site to see if there is a discount code. This is one way of helping me decide between two races that both seem pretty decent and are around the same time frame.
Searching through some of the bigger race series is a great way to find some good races in as well. These bigger races have a history and are usually set up very well. A quick internet search will have you at a big series like the Rock n’ Roll series, the Revel Race Series, or the Vacation Races series. It all depends on what you are looking for in a race.
Which ever way you choose to search, there is something out there for every kind of runner, or walker! So what are you waiting for? Go sign up for a race and get running!
