Loneliness of the long-distance runner? If that’s not your bag – and that’s cool if it is – we’re here to remind you that some things really are better with friends. And that includes running. So, get your running posse together. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Relay or Half-Marathon Relay are your entry into one of the biggest celebrations of running in the city. If you’re looking for that tipping point, trust us; you can do this!
No time to train? No problem!
We get it. You’re busy with work, kids, school, CrossFit, or that other thing you do that isn’t running. Finding time to train for a marathon or half marathon might not seem like it fits into your schedule. The good news is relays shorten the training time required or downright eliminate it. With even a very basic level of fitness, most anyone can get ready to cover a 3-to-5-mile relay leg in just a few weeks.
Push yourself. Or don’t.
Got fast friends? Good for you! Get them together and flat out crush the competition or just see how quickly you can cover the distance. Or don’t! Relays are an honest-to-goodness “no pressure” environment if you want them to be. Have fun, enjoy the experience, wear costumes, ruck it… totally your call. Relays are also a great opportunity if injury sets back your training, or you just don’t want to miss out on the fun. FOMO, anyone?
Teamwork makes the dream work.
Relays are an actual factual shared experience. And not in a “misery loves company” kind of way. You’ll get to skip the “sweaty van” thing, but there’s coordination, communication, and – depending on how you want to roll – a healthy dose of comedic relief involved. If relay running delivers on anything, it almost always nets a few good stories. Ah, memories…
Cash in on your hard-earned fitness.
Did you or will you run a marathon this fall? Did your “A” race not work out as planned? Or maybe you’re just one of those runners who’s always sitting on “ready.” Doesn’t matter. Running a relay is a great way to capitalize once more on all the work you put in leading up to another event. Might as well get the most from it.
And you can (kinda) check one off the old bucket list.
If a marathon or half marathon is one of those boxes you’ve wanted to check, here’s your chance. A relay also gives you the opportunity to get a feel for the entire experience. Heck, we’re pretty sure it’ll inspire you to want to tackle your distance of choice solo. And if not, that’s fine, too. You’ll have earned bragging rights and a finishers’ medal for your part in the team effort. Good for you!
One last thing. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon relay and half marathon relay are also the most cost-effective ways to bring your friends together for the fun and the run. And yes, you’ll still all get medals, event shirts, post-race goodies, and beers. What’s not to like about that? Registration is open at thecharlottemarathon.com