Break out the sunscreen. As the days become warmer and longer, there is a wealth of races that District-area runners can choose from. Choose to support Down Syndrome awareness, youth mentoring programs, and our country’s veterans through a series of footrace events around the area. This month’s picks range from the 5 kilometer (3.1 mile) distance to 13.5 miles and include road and trail races. As always, DCist recommends that its readers run safe: slather on that sunscreen, hydrate well, and remember to stretch.
Race4Respect: Washington, D.C.
Start the month with a race to support Down Syndrome awareness. Race4Respect is run out of Devenio, a nonprofit that supports people with cognitive and developmental disabilities and their families. The event follows Pennsylvania Avenue near the National Mall and—thanks to its relatively flat route— offers fast times for the participants. It is USATF-certified and according to race organizers, it is the “only event dedicated to Down Syndrome Awareness that stops traffic in the nation’s capital.”
Saturday, June 1 // 1K, 5K // $25-$40 // More information here.
Mentoring Matters 5K: Washington, D.C.
Also on the first day of June, Teens Run DC is holding its fourth annual 5K to celebrate its members’ success and to support their ongoing efforts. The organization works with underserved youth in the District through a mentoring and distance-running curriculum. The course is USATF-certified and is a fast out-and-back route through Anacostia Drive and across the Skating Pavilion. The event is accepting monetary donations, but supporters can also offer in-kind donations like bananas, granola bars, and bottles of water. Tip: There is race day registration, but save $5 by signing up online ahead of time.
Saturday, June 1 // 5K // $25-$30 // More information here.
Fountainhead Half Marathon and 10K Trail Run: Fairfax Station, Virginia
Give your legs a break from the concrete and asphalt of the city by hitting the trail. EX2 Adventures is hosting a trail half marathon and 10K race through Fountainhead Regional Park in Northern Virginia. The course is challenging and, as someone who has fallen in love with the trails multiple times, worth it. Make sure your laces are tied before taking off: the course will promise shallow streams, a few hills, and plenty of rocks and roots to keep you (literally) on your toes. Please note that the “half marathon” distance is 13.5 miles, not the traditional 13.1 miles.
Sunday, June 2 // 10K, 13.5 miles // $25-$30 // More information here.
Run for Roses 2019: Silver Spring, Maryland
No men, please. If you identify as a girl/woman, get in your mid-June miles with a 5K in Wheaton Regional Park. The course starts on the nearby roads and then loops through the dirt paths by Pine Lake. If you know younger runners, there is a shorter fun run for girls and boys 15 minutes before the start of the race. The Run for Roses event is held as part of the Women’s Distance Festival Grand Prix Series and is hosted by the Montgomery County Road Runners Club.
Saturday, June 15 // 5K // $0-$40 // More information here.
2019 Freedom 5k, 10k, & 10M: Washington, D.C.
It’s one of the first Fourth of July themed races of the summer. Ring out the end of June on the flat and fast C&O Canal Towpath. The event is held in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project and runners can choose between a 5K, 10K, or 10-mile length course. For folks who would like to participate but aren’t able to make it, there is also a virtual run option. (Note: t-shirts are only guaranteed for participants who register before June 19.)
Sunday, June 30 // 5K, 10K, 10 mile // $25-$55 // More information here.
