Atlanta Road Races Galore in February and March

There are nearly 30 road races taking place around metro Atlanta – from Madri Gras fun runs to the ING Georgia Marathon. Here’s an overview of some the races:

Chattahoochee Challenge 10K – February 6
Believe it or not, it’s not too soon to get a qualifying time for July’s Peachtree Road Race. The Chattahoochee Challenge boasts a flat, fast course along the river. Online registration is closed but you can still sign-up at Big Peach Running Co. locations.

Front Page News’ Madri Gras Half-Fast 5K – February 13
If ever there was a “fun run” this is it. Runners race through Atlanta’s lovely Candler Park neighborhood. The race ends a short distance from Front Page News where discounts and celebratory drinks are on hand. Register online at Active.com or at Phidippides’ Ansley Mall store.

KSU Owls Making Stride 5K – February 20
Kennesaw State plays host to this on-campus event. The race starts and ends near the school’s convocation center. Runners and volunteers receive 4 free tickets to the KSU women’s basketball game, which follows post-race festivities. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

Run Thru the Forest 5K – February 27
In its 2nd year, this Smyrna race raises funds for the Georgia Transplant Foundation. The American Legion hosts a post-race breakfast for $6. Registration is available at Active.com or at Big Peach Running Co.

Red Devil Dash 5K – March 6
Help support high school sports. The race benefits the Phillip Hicks Memorial Scholarship Fund and the booster club for Druid Hills High’s soccer team. Register in advance at Active.com or on-site on the day of the race.

O’Highlands Jig & Jog 5K – March 13
Here’s a neighborhood event that welcomes everybody … runners, walkers, strollers, and dogs. In the holiday mood? Wear an Irish-themed costume for a chance to win $25. Stick around after the race for prize drawings. Sign-up at Phidippides or online at Active.com.

Tour DeCatur 5K – March 13
Celebrating its 8th year, Tour DeCatur is an annual fundraiser for the Decatur Education Foundation. Along with the 5K, there’s also a 1-mile run/walk and a tot trot. The race starts and ends at Decatur High School. Register online at the event site.

Shamrock ‘N Roll Road Race – March 14
Hit the streets of Atlantic Station with the Junior League of Atlanta. The 10K race is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race. Want to bring a friend? Dogs and strollers are welcomed. There’s no onsite registration so be sure to sign-up in advance. You can do so at Active.com.

ING Georgia Marathon & Half-Marathon – March 21
It’s the big race of the season. Thousands of runners will race through some of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods - Inman Park, Little Five Points, Decatur, Druid Hills and Virginia Highlands. Routes for both races are available at the event site. Registration is available at Active.com and at the race expo.