March Kicks Off a Great Season of Atlanta Road Races

March marks the start of spring and the promise of warmer weather and longer days. Over 25 races give Atlanta runners an opportunity to celebrate the change of season.

Chattahoochee Road Runners 10K – Saturday, March 7
Considered one of Atlanta’s fastest 10Ks this is a great race to run if you’re looking for a qualifying time for the Peachtree Road Race.

O’Highlands Jig & Jog 5K – Saturday, March 14
This St. Patty’s themed race encourages runners to get in the spirit by dressing in Irish attire. The best costume wins $25.

Jog for a Cause – Saturday, March 14
This event features a 5K, 10K and 1-mile fun run. The 10K is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Proceeds benefit organizations that address childhood cancer.

ShamRock N’ Roll Road Race – Sunday, March 15
Located at Atlanta Station, this race offers both a 5K and a 10K that’s a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Strollers and dogs are welcomed.

Tour Decatur – Saturday, March 21
Runners enjoy a 5K race through the picturesque neighborhoods of Decatur. The event also includes a 1-mile fun run and a Tot Trot. Proceeds benefit the Decatur Education Foundation.

ING Georgia Marathon/Half-Marathon – Sunday, March 29
March ends with the big one – the ING Georgia. This race offers one of the best tours of Atlanta on foot. Runners pass through Inman Park, Decatur, Virginia-Highlands, Midtown and Downtown.

Check out Run Georgia for a comprehensive list of road races across the state.

This week’s route is the course for Saturday’s Chattahoochee Road Runners 10K. You can find a map of the course at the club’s web site.

· Start on Mt. Vernon Highway, in front of the Waffle House and just east of Sandy Springs
Circle.
· Head west on Mt. Vernon Highway (just past 3 miles)
· The turn around is just before Northside Drive
· Head east on Mt. Vernon Highway (approx 5.5 miles)
· Turn right onto Hammond Drive (approx .5 miles)
· Turn right onto Sandy Springs Circle (all downhill)
· End at Lake Forest Elementary