These races and local training spots promise to put a spring in your step

March, April and May prove popular times of the year for area races of all distances and if you signed up for one, or if you would like to, the time to spring into action is now.

Lucky for you, there are plenty of races to choose from and lots of local places to train. Running and walking events are incredibly inclusive and welcoming, so whatever your level of ability or interest, rest assured there is something out there for you.

This month, I offer a quick look at a small sample of upcoming spring races in our neighboring counties. We are so fortunate to have access to lots of wonderful races in our area year-round. I only list a select few here, but there are many more and I always welcome the chance to hear from you if you want to share some of your top picks.

In addition to a sneak peak at spring races, I also want to walk (or run) you through some of my favorite parks, greenways and trails right here in scenic Fauquier County. If you sign up for a race, you are going to need to get ready for it and I think our local parks are an amazing place to do exactly that. Thanks to absolutely amazing town, county and state parks, there are many to choose from. Some of my favorites include but are not limited to:

• C.M. Crockett Park 

• Northern Fauquier Community Park

• Warrenton Branch Greenway

• Sky Meadows State Park

• Warrenton Sports Complex surrounding the WARF

• Rady Park

We are so lucky to live in a county with such wonderful green spaces that are so cared for and enjoyed by many.

Earlier this month, I actually had a chance to catch up with the knowledgeable and resourceful Janet Pulliam, Superintendent for Fauquier County Department of Parks and Recreation. It was such a joy to hear her passion for the parks, programs and the FCPR 2023 theme “Planting Seeds of Positivity.”

Let’s take a quick look at some of Janet’s “best bets” for FCPR’s outdoor walking and running opportunities:

“FCPR has a wide variety of beautiful trails to enjoy a walk or run. For rustic hiking or trail running on an unpaved natural surface try CM Crockett Park or Riverside Preserve. Both offer opportunities to enjoy a water view and commune with nature. For family-friendly fun check out Northern Fauquier Community Park’s 1.75 mile paved trail with three playground stops along the way or the Warrenton Branch Greenway’s  2.2 miles of paved trail with its historic Caboose.”

- Janet Pulliam, Superintendent, Fauquier County, Department of Parks and Recreation

Hearing this mission and dedication to health and happiness, I can see why our parks are among my favorite places to run. Now that you know some of my favorite places, let’s take a look at some of my favorite races. Here are my spring favorites:

Charlottesville Ten Miler - Saturday, March 25

This much-loved race that supports local charities has been around for more than 40 years, which speaks volumes to its popularity and success. I love this race. With Charlottesville’s charisma and charm as its backdrop, the course will reward you with scenery, spectators, history and hills. I highly recommend this incredibly well “run” race. To read more, check out my full preview from the 2022 event on Soleful’s website.

Marine Corps 17.75K - Saturday, March 25

A unique distance and course are two of many things that make this race one of my favorites. Commemorating the year the Marine Corps was established, the 17.75K distance takes runners over hills and through woods in a breathtakingly beautiful course in scenic Prince William Forest. Finishers will receive “Access Granted” passes. These passes give runners guaranteed access into the Marine Corps Marathon, which is held each October in Washington, D.C.

Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon - Saturday, May 20

This event offers multiple options, including a half marathon, 10K or 5K and it also features a Wine and Music Festival. It has been many years since I raced this event and the venue has since changed, so I cannot speak to this specifically. However, I can say, in my past experience with a Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon, the course was pretty and the event was enjoyable. As a part of the Destination Races series, this event is billed as an experience not just a running race and the course is described on the event website as “very scenic and flat on backcountry paved and gravel roads.” Sounds fun, see you there?

Marine Corps Historic Half - Sunday, May 21

From my perspective, Marine Corps Marathon events are always exceptionally well organized. I am such a fan, as you can see this is the second of their events I recommend for the spring. Situated in Fredericksburg, this 13.1-mile course gives you a chance to explore the city, a highlight of which includes the charming and picturesque downtown. The race boasts an impressive incline at mile 11 that will both challenge and inspire you to the finish line. I repeat this race as many years as I am available and I hope to see you there.

I always welcome the opportunity to hear from you, please feel free to reach out anytime with comments or questions. I am delighted to help.

Happy training and racing, I hope to see you running around town!

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As a columnist for FauquierNow, this was originally written by me for Fit in Fauquier, our fitness and well-being column.