Running events for 2019 – Seven races to tackle
As another year of effort heads towards its close, now is the time to look ahead and book up some running events for 2019.
Here, SFJ takes a look at some enticing looking events, both in the UK and further afield. Most of these have half-marathon and 10k options for those not keen on a full marathon slog.
Banff Marathon – June 16, 2019
Running on your own isn’t so lonely in such surroundings © pamdoylephoto.com
Just scrolling through these pictures should provide enough reason to add the Banff Marathon weekend to your running events for 2019.
Having enjoyed a spell in Canada a few years back, this is high on the personal wish list. Canadian scenery is rarely short of spectacular and the people are welcoming, meaning the race atmosphere should be great.
It’s fun – here’s the proof! © pamdoylephoto.com
Nature and wildlife abounds on a route which takes in Banff Central Park, the Vermilion Lakes and the Bow Valley Parkway. The run finishes up in downtown Banff.
Canada is home to bears, wolves and coyotes to name a few species. Thankfully, race organisers have a safety flagging system in place in the event of a ‘wildlife encounter’. Competitors will be instructed how to proceed by using green, yellow or red flags.
The day attracts increasing numbers of entrants, taking part across the marathon, half-marathon and 10k.
Activities start on the Friday, followed by expo’s and fitness sessions on Saturday, prior to Sunday’s showcase.
Perhaps the hardest part during this might be focusing on where you’re going, as you’ll undoubtedly be in awe of the sights around you.
Passing over a bridge has never looked so nice © pamdoylephoto.com
Where’s Wally? fun run – March 17, 2019
As with most running events for 2019, a key intention will be to raise money for charity. This particular one in aid of the National Literacy Trust, around London’s Clapham Common, has a fun twist.
UK readers will no doubt be familiar with the Where’s Wally? children’s books (Where’s Waldo? in the US and Canada). The whole premise of the books is to locate Wally among a sea of other characters, but at this event you’ll have no such trouble – they’re everywhere!
The Wally run provides ideal family fun
Scheduled races on the day include a 10k, 5k and 1k (for U12s). Early bird registration runs until December 1, after which entry fees increase by ?2.
Aside from the warm feeling you’ll get while fundraising, you’ll also gain some nifty fancy dress.?Entering this event will see you decked out in a red and white striped top, with obligatory Wally bobble hat and specs.
Quite what the locals make of seeing a bunch of Wally’s hurtling around the Common during their relaxing Sunday morning stroll is unclear. But whatever, it should be a sight to behold.
Mok Half Marathon and 10k run – May 26, 2019
Runners can enjoy the waves lashing their feet at the Mok Run (Image courtesy of Mok Run)
Beach running is an altogether different fitness test (Image courtesy of Mok Run)
When Paul McCartney and Wings sang about Mull of Kintyre, chances are they weren’t thinking of the Mok Run. But maybe they should’ve been.
The Mull of Kintyre in southwest Scotland looks like a fantastic spot when planning your running events for 2019. There’s sweeping beach views and plenty for the family to enjoy. It’s probably fair to say it may be breezy, so this day should prove a great challenge.
Understandably this event is mega-popular and sells out fast. Get in quick when entries become available from Entry Central on January 6, 2019.
Top of the Gorge Festival – June 14-16, 2019
If you’ve never visited Cheddar Gorge in Somerset this is an ideal chance. There’s a great range of running events – marathon, half-marathon, 10k and even a 6k to test your metal. Non-runners may just prefer the camping, which can also be done across the weekend.
Fans of hills (there are a few apparently…) will be in their element. It’s a 535-metre elevation change for the half. The full 26.4 miles will have you climbing double that on your two laps. Tough terrain may slow you down but at least you’ll get to properly take in the vista.
Daunting much?
Midnight Sun Run – June 20, 2019
For a confusing body clock challenge, the Suzuki Midnight Sun Run in Reykjavik, Iceland could be a good addition to your list of running events for 2019. There’s not much darkness in Iceland during the months of May to August, hence the opportunity for a daylight/night run.
Clearly something a little different from the norm, the half-marathon, 10k and 5k events prove popular with many nationalities. This was shown by the 1,200 entrants from 46 countries during a record-breaking 2018, where 2,857 people signed up.
The icing on this splendid looking Icelandic cake comes with knowledge that each runner gets an invite to a geothermal pool to recover afterwards!
Montane Spine Race – January (12-14, 13-20) & June (22-29, 22-24) 2019
Run in aid of the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS), the Montane Spine trail running events should make the eyes of those mad ultra runner types light up.
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a form of inflammatory arthritis which affects up to 200,000 people in the UK.
Entrants can choose from four multi-day events covering the glorious Pennine Way National Trail – two in summer, two winter. First up are the January pair, Spine Challenger (108 miles) and Spine Race (268 miles). Summer sees the Spine Fusion and Spine Flare events in June. Those keen on a mighty challenge should start getting warmed up.
Lincoln 10k – April 7, 2019
Relax in the Lincoln Castle after completing the 10k
For a historic, fast, challenging and fun event, look no further than Lincoln’s 10k, part of the Run For All series of races held across the UK each year. As an entrant in 2016, I can vouch that the enthusiastic crowds really do come out for this run, lining the streets alongside smooth closed roads.
While the 2017 event had to be rescheduled due to snow, the sight of the famous Lincoln Cathedral as you take on the final kilometre is massively inspiring whatever time of year this race takes place.
Plus, if you opt to make it one of your running events for 2019, you can mingle with other knackered people in the grounds of historic Lincoln Castle. After you’ve picked up your hard-earned medal of course.