Big Five Marathon
2026-06-13 09:00 - 2029-06-13 23:59 UTC | Big Five Marathon | Location, South Africa
Are you a thrill-seeking runner looking for your next big challenge? Look no further than the Big Five Marathon in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Known as the “world’s wildest marathon,” this race is not for the faint of heart. The stunning surroundings are reason enough to take on the challenge but add in the fact that it takes place in the heart of a wildlife reserve, and you have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Read on to learn more about the Big Five Marathon and why you should add it to your running bucket list.
The Course:
The Big Five Marathon takes place within the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, which means runners are surrounded by some of Africa’s most majestic wildlife. As you run the 26.2-mile course, you’ll have the chance to see the Big Five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, along with other incredible creatures such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Don’t worry, though – the course is designed with safety in mind, and rangers closely monitor the animals to ensure the safety of participants.
The course itself is challenging, but the scenery and wildlife make it all worth it. Runners will traverse through mountains, valleys, grasslands, and riverbeds, all while surrounded by stunning views and incredible animals. It’s a truly unique race experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Community:
One of the most unique aspects of the Big Five Marathon is the impact it has on the surrounding community. The race is locally organized and works closely with the villages in the surrounding area. Community members are involved in everything from the race organization to the aid stations along the course. Additionally, a portion of the race fees go towards conservation efforts in the area, so not only are you getting to run through the wilderness, but you’re contributing to its preservation as well.
The Preparation:
If you’re thinking of taking on this unique marathon challenge, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, be prepared for the weather – the race takes place in June, which is the middle of winter in South Africa. Temperatures can be chilly, so pack accordingly. Second, make sure you are properly trained for the course. The combination of hills, uneven terrain, and altitude make for a challenging run. Third, don’t forget your camera! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some incredible wildlife, and you’ll want to capture the memories.
If you’re looking for a race experience unlike any other, the Big Five Marathon is the perfect choice. Not only will you get to push yourself physically, but you’ll also have the chance to see some of the world’s most incredible animals in their natural habitats. It’s a unique opportunity to combine adventure, running, and conservation efforts into one unforgettable experience. So lace up your shoes, pack your bags, and get ready to take on the world’s wildest marathon.
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Lakefront Marathon
2026-10-04 07:00 - 2026-10-05 23:59 | Lakefront Marathon | Location, I-794, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53202, United States
Are you looking for a challenge to push yourself physically and mentally? Look no further than the Lakefront Marathon, one of the Midwest’s longest-running regional marathons. Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Lakefront Marathon is a certified race for seasoned runners and beginners alike, drawing thousands of participants every year. This event combines the right mix of natural beauty with a competitive spirit, making it one of the most popular marathons in the region. Let’s dive further into what makes the Lakefront Marathon so magnificent.
1) The Scenic and Diverse Course:
The course for the Lakefront Marathon is one of the event’s biggest draws. Runners get to experience beautiful views of Lake Michigan while running through quaint neighborhoods and elegant downtown areas of Milwaukee. One of the most scenic checkpoints is the bridge where the runners get a panoramic view of the shimmering lake. The course takes runners through several iconic landmarks that Milwaukee has to offer, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum, Lake Park, and Veterans Park. The course’s flat nature, combined with the spectacular scenery, makes the Lakefront Marathon a popular choice for runners seeking a new challenge.
2) The Community Spirit:
From the tireless volunteers to the cheering crowds, the Lakefront Marathon displays a spirit of generosity and neighborliness that’s symbolic of the wider Milwaukee community. Runners from all walks of life come together to support each other in one of the most challenging races in the region. It’s this camaraderie that makes the Lakefront Marathon a unique and fun-filled experience for everyone involved.
3) The Organizers’ Dedication:
The organizers of the Lakefront Marathon are fully committed to creating a memorable running experience for runners and spectators alike. They put in months of preparation and planning to ensure that every detail is executed perfectly. The aid stations are well-stocked with refreshments and supplies, and plenty of volunteers are on hand to offer support to the runners throughout the course. The organizers work tirelessly to provide a well-organized, seamless experience for runners and fans alike, which is why it’s become one of the top regional marathons.
4) The Fitness and Health Benefits:
Training for a marathon such as the Lakefront Marathon requires months of dedication and commitment to physical fitness and healthy lifestyle choices. The benefits of participating in a marathon of this nature are numerous. It’s a chance to push the limits of your physical endurance, gain mental toughness, and improve overall health. Professional trainers recommend gradually increasing running mileage over the weeks and months leading up to the race. Not only will this build up your stamina for the marathon, but it will also help you establish new exercise routines that promote a healthier lifestyle.
5) A True Test of Endurance and Discipline:
Participating in the Lakefront Marathon is a true test of your endurance and discipline. It’s not an easy race, and requires months of training and dedication to prepare adequately. With its flat course and various scenic locations, the event offers runners a unique and immense challenge that’s both physically and mentally demanding. Crossing that finish line is an incredible feeling of accomplishment and victory, one that you’ll remember for years to come. Whether you’re an experienced marathon runner or a first-timer, the Lakefront Marathon is the perfect race to challenge yourself and reach new personal heights.
The Lakefront Marathon offers everything that a runner could ask for in a marathon: a beautiful and flat course, a supportive community, a well-organized and dedicated team of organizers, and a chance to push yourself to new limits. Runners who participate in the Lakefront Marathon leave with a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for the city of Milwaukee. So why not challenge yourself to start training for the Lakefront Marathon and be a part of the action? Who knows; maybe you’ll fall in love with the event and make it a part of your yearly routine.
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Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon
2026-10-04 08:00 - 2026-10-06 23:59 | Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon | Location, 401 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55415, United States
Are you an avid runner looking for an unforgettable marathon experience? Look no further than the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon. Known for its scenic route, great organization, and amazing volunteers, this marathon has been attracting runners from all over the world since its inception in 1982. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at what makes the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon so special.
1) The Route:
The route of the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon spans through the beautiful Twin Cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Many runners describe the route as picturesque, with beautiful fall foliage and stunning views of the Mississippi River. The marathon starts at the U.S. Bank Stadium and finishes on the State Capitol grounds. The course is surprisingly flat, with only a few moderate hills to climb. And the best part is, you get to run on the scenic Summit Avenue, one of the most beautiful residential streets in the US.
2) The Organizers:
The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon is not only scenic but also very well organized. The organizers have been doing this for decades, constantly improving the process by implementing better strategies each year. There are plenty of aid stations along the course, packed with enthusiastic and cheering volunteers. The marathon’s volunteer team is exceptional, and they go the extra mile to make every runner’s experience unforgettable. From handing out water and Gatorade to taping up injured runners and giving hugs to struggling participants, the volunteers’ support will keep you motivated throughout the run.
3) The Entertainment:
The Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon is also known for its many attractions and entertainment opportunities along the course. It is significant to note that these attractions are not just for the runners, but also for their families and friends who are cheering them on. The spectators have access to various food vendors, live music, and even small amusement parks. This makes the marathon a family-friendly event that everyone can enjoy. Many runners appreciate the small extras that make the marathon so memorable, such as a sing-along session with a live band on the Marathon Mile 16, or free bacon and beer at the Mile 23.
4) The Fuel:
If you’re worried about fueling up before the marathon, Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon has got you covered. The marathon caters to various dietary restrictions and offers plenty of pre-race meal options. You can try out the pasta feed, hosted on the eve before the marathon. It’s a perfect opportunity to carb-load and socialize with fellow runners. You also have the option of energy bars, bananas, and other snacks along the course. Many runners are impressed with the variety of food options and how organized the aid stations are.
In conclusion, the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon is a must-run for any die-hard runner seeking a challenging, scenic, and unforgettable experience. It’s a well-organized marathon with great volunteers, lots of attractions, and a scenic route that takes you through the Twin Cities’ most beautiful spots. Every year, runners come back to this marathon for the perfect combination of excellent running conditions and great event management. So what are you waiting for? Sign up and let the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon take you on an adventure of a lifetime.
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