I’m not sure who decided to organize races on July 4th, but I think they had in mind the best of running.
Communities around Iowa host nearly 25 different races tomorrow, many appropriately named Firecracker Runs. Mostly they are small towns, which I believe also hold the best Independence Day celebrations.
With the exception of the famous Peachtree, many of these holiday races are great gatherings for running and more social than competitive. The goal: register, pin on your bib, run well, finish, and celebrate! No expos, chip timing, goodie bags or hoopla. Even if the competitive juices begin to flow a bit, there’s still far more to the day than the race.
The best part is sticking around after the race, seeing familiar locals, the high school cross country runners, those new to the running community, and the true-blue veterans. 
After cooling down with something refreshing, there’s still time to head to a parade, the beach, a barbeque, and to ooooh & aaaah at fireworks.
I’ve been away from our local 4th of July run for a few years, so tomorrow I head there for some running renewal.
Even if you can’t get to a race, go celebrate freedom, health, leisure, and life with a favorite run.
Running, Races and Independence Day— their greatness lies in Communities!
Race photo on Flickr
Fireworks photo on Flickr by Jeff Wignall
Communities around Iowa host nearly 25 different races tomorrow, many appropriately named Firecracker Runs. Mostly they are small towns, which I believe also hold the best Independence Day celebrations.
With the exception of the famous Peachtree, many of these holiday races are great gatherings for running and more social than competitive. The goal: register, pin on your bib, run well, finish, and celebrate! No expos, chip timing, goodie bags or hoopla. Even if the competitive juices begin to flow a bit, there’s still far more to the day than the race.
The best part is sticking around after the race, seeing familiar locals, the high school cross country runners, those new to the running community, and the true-blue veterans.
After cooling down with something refreshing, there’s still time to head to a parade, the beach, a barbeque, and to ooooh & aaaah at fireworks.
I’ve been away from our local 4th of July run for a few years, so tomorrow I head there for some running renewal.
Even if you can’t get to a race, go celebrate freedom, health, leisure, and life with a favorite run.
Running, Races and Independence Day— their greatness lies in Communities!
Race photo on Flickr
Fireworks photo on Flickr by Jeff Wignall