You wake up while the sun’s still resting. The night chill still hangs heavily in the air, threatening to push you back to bed. Everyone tells you that you’re crazy. Who goes for a run so early in the morning? What time did you sleep the night before?
Truth is, you just want to run. And there can be a million reasons for that. It could be health, family or just to instil some form of discipline in you. Signing up for an overseas run gives an additional benefit. You get to travel and soak in a different environment at the same time. Singaporeans have been swarming to Australia and Malaysia for races because they are so accessible. Why don’t you try something new this 2016? Here, we share with you specific races in the Great America instead.
For Families: Walt Disney World Marathon
RunDisney race director Jon Hughes said that the Disney Marathon is the first to really focus on creating the race as an experience. The magical 26.2 mile run will take you through four Walt Disney World® theme parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Along the way, your favorite Disney characters are there to push you on. Like having the green army soldiers from Toy Story shouting for you to pick your knees up, they use the magic of Disney to help you finish your marathon. You also get the added perk of hopping onto a ride without the long queue! Whether you’re a big kid or a little one, there’d be a race distance just for you with the very essence of Disney built into every mile. Watch out for the next one via an email sign up!
For Couples: Honolulu Marathon
The Honolulu Marathon, as its name suggests, is set in the capital of Hawaii. Its scenic course includes spectacular ocean views alongside world-famous Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head and Koko Head volcanic craters. On race week itself, there are a host of activities you can participate in including race expo and the All-You-Can-Eat Luau (carbo-loading party). Waikiki Beach itself has near flawless weather, gentle waves and vibrant nightlife. After the race, you and your partner can have a romantic stay at one of the many hotels along the coast and bask in the beach culture that Hawaii has to offer. If you’re keen, watch out for international registration opening in April!
For Retirees: Big Sur International Marathon
Don’t be mistaken – this is not an easy, gliding race. It is moderately difficult with rolling hills and rural routes. In fact, it is the largest rural marathon in the world. Having said that, the route winds along the famous Pacific Coast Highway and is set in the heart of California. Famous for its beautiful weather, generous sunshine and vibrant lifestyle, California is a lovely place to hike around after retirement. Big Sur itself takes you above towering redwoods, alongside turning waves and through small towns. It’s iconic run is through the Bixby Bridge. View the full course map here. After the race, you can camp out at Andrew Molera St. Park to enjoy easy hikes or have a feast atop the mountain at Rocky Point. The unique blend of city life and nature walks is perfect for retirees looking for a jolt of excitement. Registration is via random draw and would open in Jult 2016.
For Tourists: Niagara Falls Marathon
The Niagara Falls Marathon stands as a representation of history and nature. It started out as the Annual Buffalo to Niagara Skylon International Marathon in 1974. The marathon quickly became a favorite with 3,000 and surpassed the Boston marathon in that year. However, the marathon ceased in 1986 due to lack of sponsorship and was only revived in 1988 by Casino Niagara. Being the first of such event in Ontario with a marathon that starts in one country and finishes in another, the Niagara Falls International Marathon continues to grow with participants in recent years exceeding 6,000. As you stand on the start line at Lincoln Park, you’d be flanked by historic structures with Delaware Park Casino & Rose Garden to your left and Albright-Knox Art Gallery on your right. For those who willing to visit places just for its sheer beauty and history, this race is the perfect blend of fitness as well. Registration is already open at early bird rates!
For Serious Runners: Boston Marathon
Boston Marathon begun in 1897 and has always been held on Patriots’ Day. The marathon has came a long way, starting with 18 participants to having 30,000 participants today. It has been a ‘bucket list’ race for many serious runners. Open to runners from age 18, registrants need to meet certain qualifying standards. From 15 February 2011, qualifying standards for the 2013 race were tightened five minutes in each age-gender group for marathons run after September 23, 2011. Full list of qualifying standards is available here. Meeting the qualifying standards does not guarantee entry. Instead, the fastest qualifiers are accepted first and this goes on until the entry is full.
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