With Memorial Day this weekend, it’s officially summer time! And for many people in Charlotte that means it’s time to get up and run. Running is a great way to stay and shape and be active. Regular exercise like running can lead to myriad health benefits and improve cardiovascular health. Like most things, running is more fun with friends. That’s why this Memorial Day weekend we’ve compiled 5 of the top 5K races around Charlotte!
- Mission Miles 5K – Friday, May 22nd – Denver, NC:
Mission Miles 5K is an evening trail run/walk in the beautiful country of Denver, NC at the Sally’s YMCA using a portion of the Carolina Thread Trail. The Mission Miles 5K is a fun family event for all ages kicking off Memorial Day weekend. The race benefits Sally’s YMCA Annual Support Campaign and concludes with a party to celebrate the opening of the outdoor pool.
- Speed Street 5K – Saturday, May 23rd – Uptown Charlotte:
Charlotteans know that Speed Street is the official start of summer in the Queen City! This year is the inaugural race, which starts on Tryon Street and finishes at the NASCAR Hall of Fame! Awards will be presented from Speed Street’s Coca-Cola stage.
- Memorial Day Trail Race – Sunday, May 24th – US National Whitewater Center:
Looking for something a little more challenging? Try the 5 or 8-mile trail run through the pristine forests of the US National Whitewater Center! And be sure to Hang around after the race for a day of live music, food, drinks and fireworks over our man-made whitewater river during the USNWC’s Memorial Day Celebration.
- Patriot Festival “Go The Extra Mile” 5K – Monday, May 25th – Charlotte, NC:
Start off Memorial Day with a special 5K+ Run/Walk and Go The Extra Mile for our military heroes. Participants may register for either the traditional 5K+ run/walk or choose to honor their military heroes with “Go the Extra Mile” with an additional mile added to the 5K. The 2014 Patriot Festival Go The Extra Mile 5K was a big success with over 500 runners supporting their military heroes with this special run on Memorial Day.
- Lace Up Son Family 5K – Monday, May 25th – Matthews, NC:
This one-of-a-kind, family-friendly Memorial Day celebration sponsored by the Steve Smith Family Foundation includes recognition of active duty and veteran members of our military and accommodates the special needs community. Each participant will receive a custom Lace Up Son Family 5K medal, shoe laces, and t-shirt, with a portion of the proceeds going to local YMCA programs and the Special Olympics of North Carolina.
Please, run at your own risk and do not run if you are dealing with chronic pain from a sports injury. If you need help dealing with pain contact Dynamic Health’s team of specialists today!