Whether you are a seasoned runner or an ambitious newbie, a daunting goal can help spur commitment and excitement. More bling, special rewards and serious bragging rights round out the benefits of setting your sights on an organized running challenge. There are plenty of series races rights here in Atlanta. Here are four to get you off the couch and onto the pavement.
Atlanta Track Club Triple Peach Race Series
Peachtree Road Race + Atlanta 10 Miler + Thanksgiving Day Half
If you want to participate in this challenge, mark your calendar right now for March 15. This race series starts with the largest 10K in the world, the AJC Peachtree Road Race. Cross your fingers and submit your name. You could be a lucky lottery winner for the coveted bib. After running Atlanta's favorite 10K with 60,000 of your closest friends, set your sights on the Atlanta 10 Miler in October, and the Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon in November.The rewards start at the very first race. A piece collected at each event will join to complete a special three-part commemorative medal.events.accessatlanta.com/peachtreelottery
ATL Challenge
Publix Georgia Marathon or Half Marathon + Michelob ULTRA Atlanta 13.1
The ATL Challenge kicks off with the Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon on March 22. Let your fleet feet carry you on a tour that includes the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic District, Old Fourth Ward, Inman Park, Poncey-Highland and finishes with fanfare at Centennial Olympic Park. Forget the usual runner's goo and fuel up along the way at one of the many food stations dotting the course. Food stations will include goodies such as jelly beans, cookies, oranges, bananas and peanut butter pretzels. If your family isn't quite to the half marathon level yet, opt for the 5K and enjoy the festivities. 5K finishers also receive a medal.
VIP options are still available in limited quantity. VIP benefits include reserved parking next to Centennial Olympic Park, private bathrooms and private gear check. The $75 investment also gives you access to buffets before and after the race, massage therapists, climate controlled tent and finish line viewing area.Your reward for wrapping up the challenge at the Michelob ULTRA Atlanta 13.1 in October is a special ATL Challenger Medal and shirt. Details at events.accessatlanta.com/publixmarathon
Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K Series
Challenges aren't just reserved for the marathon elite. The city of Kennesaw is hosting a series of 5K runs starting in May and running through October. Participants who complete four out of the six races will receive a special commemorative hoodie. Details at kennesawgrandprix.com
2015 Locomotive Race Series
This series includes distances ranging from 3.2 to 13.1 and varying race styles. You'll glow through a night race and listen to themed music along another route. The crown jewel of this series is its final race in December, the Locomotive Half Marathon. Special medals are award ed for participants who complete the series. Details at locomotiveraceseries.com
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