Today I'm joining the lovely ladies for Tuesdays On The Run. Where we talk about a different topic each week that is running related.Today's topic is "Favorite Local Races"... sell your local race.
For me, hands down, it is the Chevron Houston Marathon! This race has a special place in my heart... it was my first full marathon. It had an amazing time at this race (you can read my recap here).
Why is it so special?
The organization and attention to detail from the Houston Marathon Committee is out of this world. It's a pretty big race - 27,000 runners between the half and full marathon (13,500 in each race). Course support was just phenomenal. I was amazed at the amount of medical staff stationed on the course and riding the course on bikes. In addition, they keep you updated in the months, weeks and days leading up to the race.
It really showcases the best of Houston... you get to run through downtown, past the stately houses of River Oaks, in the oak lined streets near Rice University, around the fancy Galleria area, through beautiful Memorial Park. You will have plenty of scenery to keep you occupied during the race.
Houston shows up for this race! While there are a few spots there aren't any spectators (bridges, highway entry ramps), the streets are lined with them! Tons of cowbell, screaming and fun signs. There are also "hoopla stations" - where groups come out to entertain (I think there is prize money involved)... I saw rock bands, marching bands, Elvis impersonators, belly dancers, Irish dancers, mariachi bands, and a ton of DJs spinning tunes. You definitely won't be bored.
The weather is generally pretty mild - average lows in mid 40's, average highs in mid 60's (2017 was an outlier on the hot side, but 2016 was an outlier on the cold side). If you are from the southern climes, the timing of the race in January is perfect for training... you start in the fall (instead of the heat of summer as you would for fall marathons).
Finally, you just can't beat the southern hospitality!
What race is your favorite from where you live?
Today I'm linking up with MCM Mama Runs, Marcia’s Healthy Slice, and My no-guilt life for Tuesdays on the Run.
4 Comments
This has been a great link-up! I'm in Iowa and trying to find out-of-state races to consider. This race sounds like a great one!
ReplyDeleteI've heard lots of great things about this one and I have friends who go down and run it every year. How great your first marathon was such a positive experience.
ReplyDeleteI've never been to Houston! This looks like a great race with perfect weather.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great race! One of the best part of any race is most certainly the spectators. I love reading the signs and hearing the cheers - it helps me out when I need it most. Sounds like a great race!
ReplyDeleteTough to pick a favourite. I'm in California, so we have races by the ocean in Santa Cruz, or across the Golden Gate Bridge or even through the Disneyland Park.