Atlanta Running: Falling in Love with the 10K

I love running neighborhood races. I discover streets and running routes while helping out a local cause. But my focus on races had been 5Ks and the Georgia Half-Marathon. 10Ks? Never gave them serious consideration. In fact, the last 10K I ran was nearly a decade ago at the Peachtree.

So I decided to give the 10K another try. Last Sunday I ran a new race, the Intown 10K. The route traveled through one of my favorite running neighborhoods – Virginia-Highland. Race Director Ed Williams delivered a great event. Enough people to feel like a race but not too many to crowd the street. A picturesque, winding route. Easy parking. A comfy, long-sleeve T-shirt.

And I loved the distance. I forgot how much fun a 10K is to run. Over the past few years, my winter running was dedicated to training for the half-marathon distance. This year, I wasn’t in the mood to train. The 10K event is a great option to get a decent weekend run without the need to actually train for it.

While 5K events dominate the spring racing schedule, there are a few 10K races to consider:

Hoppin’ Easter Half Marathon/5K/10K – April 8
This race takes places in Snellville along a bike path in a scenic park. Registration is available at Active.com. Find more information at the event web site.

Spring K Classic 5K & 10K Run – April 14
Hosted by the Historic Roswell Kiwanis Club, the race benefits children and youth projects undertaken by the club. Sign-up before April 1 to avoid an increase in the race fee. Register online at Active.com.

NCR Spring for Cancer 5K, 10K and Fun Run – April 21
Lace up your running shoes for this Sandy Springs event. Proceeds benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Bring your strollers and dogs - this race is family and pet friendly. More information is available at the event site.