Winter is still raging, but it’s time to start planning your spring race calendar.
From fast and flat courses along the Potomac to challenging mountain marathons, there’s something for every runner in the months ahead in Virginia, Maryland and the D.C. area.
Below are some notable events to consider.
Burke Lake 12K — March 8, Fairfax Station, Va.
A picturesque 12K loop around Burke Lake on mildly rolling terrain, hosted by DC Road Runners. The race starts and finishes near the park’s Ice Cream Parlor parking lot. Free for club members; $10 for non-members.
Four Courts Four Miler — March 14, Arlington, Va.
DC Road Runners partners with Ireland’s Four Courts for this St. Patrick’s Day tradition along Wilson Boulevard. The 4-mile out-and-back course features a fast downhill first half, then challenges runners with an uphill return. Registration is $45 through March 9.
Grand Slamrock — March 14, Fredericksburg, Va.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and the approach of baseball season at Virginia Credit Union Stadium, home of the FredNats. This Arsenal Events race features a USATF-certified 5K course that finishes on the field. Top male and female finishers earn the chance to throw out a first pitch at a FredNats game later this season.
Belle Haven 10K — March 22, Alexandria, Va.
A flat and fast out-and-back 10K along the Mount Vernon Trail, perfect for chasing a PR. Hosted by DC Road Runners, the race starts and finishes at Belle Haven Park along the Potomac River. Free for members; $10 for non-members.
43rd Annual Main Street Mile — April 8, Westminster, Md.
A downhill mile with a 144-foot drop from start to finish — this Westminster Road Runners Club race is as fast as it gets. Course records stand at 3:54.6 for men and 4:32.9 for women. The evening race starts at 7 p.m., followed by ice cream sandwiches for all finishers.
New River Trail Races — April 11, Fries, Va.
For trail and ultra enthusiasts, this race offers distances from 10K up to 100K on a flat, 100% dirt course along the New River in southwest Virginia. The 100K features a belt buckle for finishers. All races are out-and-back courses through the scenic state park.
Big Cork Wine Run 5K — April 11, Rohrersville, Md.
Run through the rolling landscape of Big Cork Vineyards in western Maryland, then enjoy some award-winning wine. The course showcases the vineyard’s scenic microclimate terrain. Open to runners and walkers.
Blue Ridge Marathon — April 18, Roanoke, Va.
Billed as “America’s Toughest Road Race,” this event features more elevation change than any other road marathon in the country. Choose from 10K, half marathon, full marathon, or even a double marathon. A full weekend of live music and recovery events accompanies the race.
Run Thru Reston — April 26, Reston, Va.
Reston Runners’ annual premier event features a half marathon and 5K on rolling paved trails. Both races start and finish on the track at South Lakes High School. The half marathon begins at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K following at 7:45 a.m.
These are just a handful of the races on tap this spring. For the complete calendar of upcoming events, visit RunWashington’s race calendar.
