Snowbird Challenge (50k - 13.1 - 5.2 - Relay)

❄️ Snowbird Challenge: A Run for the True Winter Wanderers 🕊️

Brrr... if only I could stay bundled up indoors and sip hot cocoa instead of hitting the chilly paths, but here we are with the Snowbird Challenge – the race for those of us who’d rather be warm in Florida! ☀️🏖️ Even if you're like me—dodging frostbite and dreaming of tropical breezes—this 2.62-mile loop offers a mini escape from the winter grind. Ready to push through for that taste of “almost-summer”? Let's do this!

🏃 Race Options to Warm You Up!

Solo Snowbird Challenge:

• Format: Hop from lap to lap (2.62 miles each) and cover anywhere from 5 miles to 50K. Each lap completed adds a little warmth to your heart (and earns you a finisher medal worthy of any snowbird brag)!
• Awards: Awards for finishing at least 2 laps, with extra kudos for reaching 5 and 12 laps.
• Milestone distances:
  • 5 Miles
  • 13.1 Miles
  • 31 Miles
    • Think of them as mini trips towards that sun-soaked vibe.

Relay Teams (2–4 People):

• Team Up: Join forces with fellow warm-blooded run enthusiasts as you complete 12 laps together—because misery loves company, especially when it ends in a break!

🕒 Race Day Details

• When: 8:00 AM sharp – yes, it’s early, but the sooner you run, the sooner you can dream of Florida beaches!
• Where: Civic Center of Anderson Sports Complex
• Address: 144 Civic Center Blvd, Anderson, SC 29621
• Parking: Follow the signs to the baseball field parking on Jim Ed Rice Parkway.
• Packet Pickup: An hour before the race at the start/finish area. Grab your gear, bundle up, and brace yourself!

🏞️ The Course – Your Mini Winter Vacation (Minus the Snow... Mostly!)

• Course Design: A flat, scenic 2.62-mile loop along well-maintained sidewalks and paved paths.
• Highlights: Enjoy glimpses of tennis courts, community parks, and even an old haunted house (spooky, but hey, add some excitement)!
• Elevation: With only 112 feet of elevation gain, it's designed to keep you moving without turning you into a popsicle.
• Soft Surface: Prefer running on soft grass? Go for it—the course has your back.
• Click here for the Course Map

Aid Stations & Support

• Pick-Me-Up: Need a pick-me-up? There's an aid station at the start/finish brimming with:
• Snacks: Pickles, cookies, chips, Little Debbie snacks, and more goodies to warm your insides.
• Drinks: Drinks like water, Tailwind, Coke, and ginger ale.
• Cups: No cups provided—bring your own to avoid the frostbite of disposable plastic!

⛺ Set Up Your Temporary “Camp”

For those conquering multiple laps, you can set up a drop bag or a personal tent right by the start/finish. It’s your little haven where you can dream about Florida’s warmth before heading back out.

⏱️ Race Format Rules – For the Reluctant Cold Conqueror

• The Loop: You’re running a 2.62-mile loop on sidewalks and paved paths (with a bit of trail action for variety).
• Lap Start: A cheerful kettle bell sound marks the beginning of each lap. When you hear it, it's time to beat the clock!
• Timed Laps: You have 45 minutes to complete each loop. Get it done fast, or the cold will have the last laugh and you'll be disqualified.
• Rest Intervals: Once you finish a lap, wait until the full 45 minutes are up for the next one.
  • Finish in 25 minutes? Enjoy a 20-minute break to warm up your muscles.
  • Finish in 40 minutes? That gives you a quick 5-minute breather before the next lap.

So, while I'd much rather be lounging in flip-flops and soaking up the sun, I know some of us brave souls can’t resist a challenge—even in the cold. Lace up, keep that timer close, and let's run our way from the winter blues toward a little Florida fantasy! 🏃‍♀️🌴

Gear up, coordinate with your teammates, and get ready to tackle each lap with speed and precision—every minute counts! Happy racing and may the best snowbirds soar! ❄️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Register for the Snowbird Challenge