People everywhere are gearing up for the busy holiday season — finding Thanksgiving recipes, planning parties, making treats. In all the hustle and bustle of this time of year, it’s easy to neglect fitness.
To help prevent that, we’ve created a list of fun Amarillo races happening this November and December.
HOLIDAY RACES IN AMARILLO
It’s always great when you find local events to join. It gives you a chance to meet new people, have a little fun, and make memories.
What’s even better is when those events also help get you in shape and are for a good cause. Here’s what’s going on around town over the holiday season.
ROASTERS ROCK THE PARK 5K
SATURDAY, NOV. 5
This run benefits JDRF, an organization that’s dedicated to raising funds for research that will help end type 1 diabetes. Join the cause on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Amarillo College. Registration is at 8 a.m. and costs $35. The race is set to begin at 9 a.m.
TURKEY TROT 5K RUN/WALK
THURSDAY, NOV. 24
What better way to spend Thanksgiving than competing against other runners to prove you’re the fastest bird around? The Turkey Trot 5K will begin at Thompson Park in Amarillo at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24.
The fee to race is $25 before November 22, then $30 after. There’s no race-day registration available, so sign up now. The first 500 entrants get a free T-shirt.
JINGLE BELL RUN
FRIDAY, DEC. 16
This unique four-mile event is the perfect chance for runners and walkers alike to enjoy beautiful Christmas lights in the area. The race isn’t timed, so come out just for fun. There will be hot chocolate, door prizes, awards for best costume and others, food, games, and Christmas carolers.
The entry fee is $25 and includes a hoodie, as long as you’re registered by Dec. 1. Get ready to start at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 16, at Colonies Church of Christ.
RESOLUTION 5K RUN/WALK
SATURDAY, DEC. 31
Begin your New Year’s Resolution early with this race. Awards will be given in each age group, as well as for overall male and female. The run will start at John Stiff Memorial Park on Saturday, Dec. 31, at 9 a.m. Early registration is only $20.
VIRTUAL RACES
If you prefer to run alone or with one or two friends instead of hundreds, a virtual race may be your cup of tea. With these events, you often get the same perks as with traditional races, like T-shirts. The difference is that you choose your date and location, then report your time.
If this sounds like the perfect kind of event for you, check out the Hug a Runner 5K or Chase the Sun 2016.
For more ideas on how to stay fit through the holidays, reach out to the Amarillo Town Club.
*For a full list of races in Amarillo, visit the Lone Star Runners Club website.
