Top Four Races on the Fourth of July

By: Sarah McWilliams

Most people plan BBQs and fireworks on the fourth of July, but around the country people are kicking off Independence Day by getting after it and signing up for adventure runs and road races. For a list of races in your area, click here.

1. Let Freedom Run 10K, Louisville, Colo.

Colorado natives are participating in the festive, “Let Freedom Run” road race. The race has lengths for all levels of runners and walkers, featuring a 10K, 5K, 2 mile walk and kids fun run. Fun for the whole family! The race creators added an additional touch of patriotism with a Greatest American Hero theme. The site asks you to “dress as your favorite American hero – historical, contemporary, fiction – the choice is yours.”

2. Red, White and Blue Marathon, Santa Monica, Calif.

The Red, White and Blue Marathon in Santa Monica is a festive race allowing people to both celebrate the 4^th of July and get

 their morning marathon in. The marathon spans the length of Santa Monica and is an intimate race with a 75 participant cap. For the less ambitious runners, the race creators also offer a half-marathon, 10k and 5K as well.

3. Freedom from Cancer Run or Ride, Virtual Ride

The newest trend in road races is virtual riding. The Freedom from Cancer virtual ride, benefitting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, is a new take on charity runs and rides. The race technically takes place on Independence Day, but the race officials ask that you just run or ride on or near that date. You pick the distance: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon or Cycling event. You raise donations and just like any other race, those donations go directly to the charity. After entering your results on the results page, your shirt will show up in the mail. This is a great alternative if there isn’t a race

nearby!

4. Freedom 10K, Kailua, Hawaii

Benefitting the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii, runners and walkers compete in the July 4^th Freedom 5K/10K in Kailua, Hawaii. If you’re not up for running there is also a mile walk with wheelchairs, strollers and pets all welcome. Even if you’re not one of the lucky Hawaii natives, you can still donate to the Epilepsy Foundation of Hawaii here.

Whether you spend your day at a BBQ, with family and friends, or road racing, everyone at ATLX wishes you a happy and safe Fourth of July Holiday.