Best Spring 2015 Races In Metro Detroit
Cupid's Undie Run
2115 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 961-5451
www.cupidsundierun.com
Date: Feb. 14, 2015
One of the most bizarre, but equally entertaining races of the early spring is the annual Cupid's Undie Run. Sure, it may still be February, and sure, it might still be very cold out, but keep in mind that it is all for a good cause. Participants are only asked to run a mile, and yes, it is while wearing only your underwear, but the hope is to raise money to spread awareness for neurofibromatosis, which affects small children. So build up that courage and take the first short run of the season in style - for Cupid and for sick children.
Joseph Campau Ave. & Hanley St.
Hamtramck, MI 48212
www.tour-de-troit.org
Date: Feb. 14, 2015
Everyone, especially Metro Detroiters, loves paczki. You may be asking yourself, what is a paczki? Well, any person of Polish descent or who has grown up in Detroit (or basically anyone in Hamtramck) can tell you that these lovely fried balls of dough and creme are a spring favorite each Fat Tuesday in February. The bad part about indulging in paczki? They can be between 500-800 calories...each! The PaczKi Run through Detroit on the weekend before Fat Tuesday is a five-mile run that may not be a marathon, but it will sure make you feel a lot better about eating a few paczki on Fat Tuesday.
Kellogg Park
W. Ann Arbor Trail & S. Main St.
Plymouth, MI 48170
(248) 912-8747
www.shamrocknrollrun.com
Date: March 8, 2015
The Kona Shamrock Run might be considered the first "real run" of the year, as it offers a 10K, 5K and both a walk and run option. Many participants dress up to show off their St. Patrick's Day pride, including Irish garb and gear and many going as far to wear large leprechaun hats. After the race, you can best bet that any nearby Irish-themed bar and tavern in the Northville area will be happy to welcome runners for a pint of green-colored beer, despite St. Patrick's Day still being a week away.
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460 W. Canfield St.
Detroit, MI 48201
www.tour-de-troit.org/rundunainrouge
Date: March 22, 2015
The legendary monster known as the Nain Rouge has been rumored to have caused more trouble for the city of Detroit than any other factor since the city's founding in 1701. (It may have even caused the bankruptcy!) The Run du Nain Rouge gives Detroiters the change to get together and unite against this illusive and mythical terror and chase him away for another year from our fair city. Last year, over 400 runners assembled and had a wonderful time and this year, they're looking for others to join. It's only a short five miles to chase the monster from the city and make us Detroiters safe once again.
Martian Invasion Of The Races
Ford Park
500 Monroe St.
Dearborn, MI 48124
(734) 929-9027
www.martianmarathon.com
Date: April 18, 2015
In the middle of April, the martians are invading Dearborn. Of course, most of these martians will just be friendly runners dressed up as aliens taking part in the annual Martian Invasion of the Races held each year in Dearborn, just outside Detroit. With all types of races, from 5K and 10K, to half and full marathons, every type of runner will find a race that is best suited to them and have a fun time enjoying the creative sights. For those serious runners, this year's Martian Marathon is also a Boston Marathon qualifier, so there's the added incentive for those looking to really push themselves, as well. There are free hand-stamped medals and awards for everyone who finishes their races, too!
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