10 Great New England Races
There's a great running culture in New England, one that is dominated by a hard-core yankee spirit. People around here have grit. And of course there is the storied Boston Marathon, not to far from he'a (here) that lends a bit of history to the running scene. With that, I have to admit that New England (despite it's awful weather--although that's probably what produces such gritty runners) is a great place to run and race.
Here's a list of some of my favorite New England Races:
1. Big Lake Half Marathon, Alton, NH- May
This race runs along Lake Winnipausake in May, which means unpredictable weather (it could be sweltering, freezing or perfect). It's hilly, which makes it challenging and views of the lake make for interesting scenery.
2. Eastern States 20 Miler-Starts in Kittery, ME finishes in Salisbury, MA-March
This race runs through three states (which makes for great bragging) and for most of the course you run along the ocean (which is inspiring). It's a great marathon tune-up race.
3. Maine Marathon, Portland, ME-October
This race has a special place in my heart. It was my first marathon and most recently my PR. It is small and friendly. The course is pretty for the most part and feels like "home" to me. There are a few good views but for the most part you're running through neighborhoods, people come to the end of their driveways to wave, cheer and ring cowbells. It feels real.
4. Girls Inc. 5KRochester, NH-April
This run is small, but supports a great cause: helping girls build confidence and self-esteem through running. Couldn't think of a better organization to give my $20 to.
5. Covered Bridge 10KJackson, NH-September
Touted as the toughest 10K in New England this one is HILLY. There's a 500 ft. elevation climb in the first mile and then more than just rolling hills after that. It is truly challenging, so if you want to test your grit and toughness, this is the race.
6. White Mountain Milers 1/2 Marathon, North Conway, NH-October
The best part about this race is really the after party: an all-you can eat pizza buffet from the Flatbread Pizza Co. (Which is my opinion is the best pizza on earth, and hopefully will be in heaven too.) The race itself is good too, a flat jaunt through very scenic North Conway, past horse farms with the White Mountains looming in the distance. It's quite pretty. But the pizza....OH the pizza!
7.Todd's Trott 5K, Durham, NH- March
This is another small-town race for a great cause: a scholarship in the honor of Todd Heuchling, a bright and talented cross country runner. At the race you see families in the community come together to remember a great kid. It's a good thing to be a part of.
8. Avis Goodwin Father's Day 5K, Dover, NH- June
This race is really new and so it's really small, which can mean placing in your age category of even winning. It's on Father's Day and is a great way to get out with your family. It also has a great post race spread: a breakfast burrito buffet from Margaritas. (Which is how I got my husband to go to one of MY races on Father's Day).
9. Peeper 5K, Barrington, NH-May
This race has local flavor...literally. If you place in your age category you receive a block of cheddar cheese from Calef's Country Store. You might be wondering what a "peeper"is, well if you come to the race you can find out. It's a great way to spend a Saturday morning.
10.Market Square Day 10K, Portsmouth, NH-June
This race is big and always draws a fast field. So if you're looking to walk away with a medal or prize you might want to look for a smaller race. But it is fun, has great cheering crowds and puts you in Portsmouth early for the Market Square Day festivities.
Happy Racing!
Sarah
