Annual Races to Rave About in the 5150'
There are two types of people in the 5150', the first type, if you see them running you better run too because something or someone is definitely chasing them!
If you're reading this post, we're gonna bet that you are the second type: Born to run. Forced to work. We've got good news for you speedsters, race season is almost here! With miles of paved trails along the beautiful North Platte River and scenic single track on Casper Mountain, there's no better place to earn a medal than right here at home in the 5150'! Check out the list of races to rave about this season below and start training for your next local race!
Trail Mix Run - May 18
This one has been a local favorite for more than a few years now! If you haven't taken on the Trail Mix Run yet, this is your year! Challenge yourself with the mixed-surfaces of either the three or ten mile run featuring hills, spring creeks and lots of mud (nothing says spring in the 5150' more than some mud on your shoes!). The three mile option has a wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly route. All-ages and abilities are welcome!
Visit Casper Marathon - June 2
Did you know that we host a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon right here in the 5150' every year?! On the first Sunday of June, the Visit Casper Marathon brings hundreds of runners to Casper to toe the line and qualify for the Boston Marathon. If you're just looking for a light-hearted and fast-paced way to enjoy our beautiful local scenery, this is also the race for you! One of the biggest races in our state, this is one that will have you repping your finishers medal for years.
Be Kind To Your Mind 5K Run/Walk - June 29
Sunshine and getting active are hallmark ingredients of mental wellness. Give yourself a mental boost while supporting this great cause! The Iris Clubhouse of Casper is a working community of adults with mental illness. It provides new opportunities, resources for friendship, employment, housing and education in a caring and safe environment. This gives their members the opportunity for recovery and renewed participation as valued and respected members of society. The annual 5k Family Run/Walk benefiting this great work will be held at the Crossroads Adventure Playground, 1081 N Poplar Street.
Casper Chase 5K - July 9
When we think of July in the 5150' we think fireworks, rodeo, Parade Day, and of course, the Casper Chase 5k! This memorial run honors fallen soldiers who have served the United States. The course takes runners through our historical downtown during the festivities of Parade Day, which means your family and friends are already a captive audience to cheer you all the way across the finish line!
Skunk Hollow Sneaker Chase - July 20
This race will give you a fresh perspective of the trails up on Casper Mountain! Sign up for either the eight or 16-miler and buckle up for some trail running fun and comradery. The one advantage you have over visitors running this race... you know about the brutal elevation gain in advance and can be active on the mountain year-round!
Wyoming Pink Ribbon Run - August 3
Supporting another great cause, the Wyoming Pink Ribbon Run is put on by The Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative. Plus you'll get to enjoy your race in the beautiful Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park along the North Platte River east of Casper.
The Night Crawler - August 23
All we want to know is... are you tough enough to take on the annual Night Crawler endurance race on Casper Mountain?! Test your mental and physical strength with this unique race under the stars. Starting at 6:30pm and going until 6:30am the following morning, runners are challenged with completing as many 8-mile loops of single track trails as possible. Rest as much as you want between each loop and bow out at any time. Have your buddies set up a tent and make a fun night out of it when you've finished conquering the trails!
T-Bird Trek - September 8
Celebrate the beginning of the school year and the last of the warm weather with the T-Bird Trek. Casper College really knows how to put on a race because the T-Bird Trek has been a longtime favorite here in the 5150'. Choose your distance with an option to walk/run a 5k, 10k, or two different half-marathon routes. The trek helps to support scholarships and alumni initiatives at our awesome community college! This year will be its 10th anniversary!
We'd love to see your preparation and racing success this season! Don't forget to tag #5150local on your favorite social media platforms to share them with us!