Running Races in October

Written by
Erica Schuckies
Consider October the best month of the year—for running, that is. We've gathered some of the best races happening in October across the country and compiled them into this list just for you.
Pacific Beachfest
Oct 3, 2015, in San Diego
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Take a jaunt down the beach during this 5K run or walk in San Diego. Registrants receive a race tank top, sunglasses, race medal and ticket to the post-race beer garden. The little ones are also invited to take part in their own 1K fun run after the 5K race.
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Leavenworth Oktoberfest Marathon and Half Marathon
Oct. 3, 2015, in Leavenworth, Wash.
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Located two hours east of the Puget Sound, the Leavenworth half and full marathon will take runners through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, past the Wenatchee River and Icicle Creek. The marathon is limited to runners, while the half marathon option is open to runners or walkers. Proceeds of this race will be donated to the University of Pennsylvania's cancer biology lab.
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Ditka Dash 5K presented by State Farm
Oct. 3, 2015, in Chicago
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Are you a superfan of Da Bears? Even if you're not, you'll still enjoy this 5K ran as a mark of respect for former Chicago Bears player and coach Mike Ditka. Each runner receives a Ditka mustache, aviator sunglasses and T-shirt reminiscent of the fantastic sweater vest worn by Da Coach himself. Finishers will be treated to a race medal (with Ditka's face on it, of course), as well as free beer and food. No need to be concerned about your mustache during the race—mile two features a Mustache Aid Station.
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LEGO Systems Inc. 5K Road Race and Family Fun Run
Oct. 3, 2015, in Enfield, Conn.
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Taking place at LEGO's North American headquarters, this 5K and family fun run promotes fun and fitness for all ages and abilities. The race course features unique activities, such as a LEGO building challenge and the chance to win LEGO prizes. Race proceeds will be donated to Camp Courant, a local day camp for children.
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Inaugural Ft. De Soto 15K and 5K
Oct. 4, 2015, in St. Petersburg, Fla.
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Voted by TripAdvisor as "America's Top Beach," Fort De Soto Park is home to the Inaugural Ft. De Soto 15K and 5K. The fast and flat courses wind through the park, and past sandy beaches and clear water—all with a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy the beach at a post-race party complete with food, beer and live music.
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Rivalry Rage 5K - Texas vs. OU
Oct. 10, 2015, in Dallas
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For University of Texas and University of Oklahoma fans, the Red River Rivalry runs deeper than a football game. Don your best burnt orange or crimson and show your team spirit at this 5K. A winner will be declared based on which school has more registrations, so encourage your friends and family to come out to support your team.
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The bRUNch Run
Oct. 11, 2015, in Denver
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As the "most epic Sunday Funday in Colorado," The bRUNch Run invites runners to partake in a 5K or 10K around Stapleton Central Park and then to indulge in some of the best brunch food and drinks in the Denver area. Proceeds of The bRUNch Run will benefit Metro Caring, Denver's leading hunger-relief organization.
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Hershey Half Marathon
Oct. 18, 2015, in Hershey, Penn.
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With a name like Hershey, this race has to be sweet. The 13.1-mile course takes runners on a tour of the town of Hershey, past sights such as Hersheypark, Milton Hershey School and the world-famous Chocolate Avenue. Race registration includes a long-sleeve race shirt, finisher's medal, goodie bag and two tickets to Hersheypark in the Dark, a seasonal Halloween-themed event at the theme park.
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2015 Run and Ride - Kings Island
Oct. 23, 2015, in Mason, Ohio
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The Cedar Fair Run and Ride Series at Kings Island provides runners a unique reward for finishing the half marathon, 10K or 5K glow run. The course takes runners through Kings Island Amusement Park before it opens, giving them a "behind-the-scenes" look at the park as they race toward the finish line. Registrants receive a one-day admission for the park during the race weekend.
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Miami Beach Halloween Half Marathon & Freaky 4-Miler
Oct. 24, 2015, in Miami Beach, Fla.
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Clown. Doctor. Little Red Riding Hood. Whatever you have planned as your Halloween costume this year, get it out early for this half marathon or four-mile race by the beach. With scenic South Beach views and a freaky-cool custom medal, this is a race you won't soon forget.
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Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon
Oct. 18, 2015, in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
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You'll not only love the scenic fast and flat course of the Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon, but you'll also flip for the unique surfboard medals every finisher receives. After more than five miles of oceanfront running (and eight more with the water just around the bend), the race wraps up on the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, where live surf bands and a post-race beach party await you.
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