5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathons

  • 5k races
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    About 5k races

    A 5k race is the shortest of the common running event distances, consisting of 3.1 miles (5 kilometers). These races in Kentucky can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are the most popular offroad running races in Kentucky because of their relatively short distance which allows not only the seasoned runners to run, but novice runners, joggers, and new-comers as well. These races in Kentucky have the highest ratio of women compared to other race distances.

    How did we choose the best 5k races in Kentucky? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is. Finally, runners that are prone to injuries like Plantar Fasciitis, Shin Splints, Piriformis also tend to enjoy shorter races in Kentucky.

    Read also about good shoes for shin splints.

    What are the best 5Ks in Louisville?

    There are many to choose from here at the Louisville Area is host to many 5k races throughout its many communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners.  Some of the notable 5k running events include Louisville Hungry Turkey 5k, Frostbite 5k, and Girls on the Run Louisville Fall 5k.

    What are the best 5ks in Lexington?

    Some great 5k races take you on a running tour of various Lexington neighborhoods. Some notable race events to check out our Kentucky 5k, Bluegrass Runners Thoroughbred Classic 5K, and Spindletop Stache & Sweater Dash 5K.

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  • 10k races
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    About 10k races

    A 10k is one of the most common running event distances, consisting of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). Also, these races in Kentucky can either be competitive or more for fun, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are twice the distance of the 5k and still relatively short in distance. Fewer runners tend to participate then the 5k, but these races in Kentucky still get a lot of not only seasoned runners but novice runners and joggers in attendance.

    How did we choose the best 10k races in Kentucky? 

    We checked which races in Kentucky runners are looked for and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best 10K events in Louisville?

    Louisville is Kentucky's largest city so it's no surprise that it would also host plenty of races! Notable 10k races in Louisville include Rodes City Run 10k, the Turkey Trot 10k hosted by the YMCA of Greater Louisville as well as the Louisville 10k, part of the Louisville Marathon race weekend.

    What are the best 10K trail races in Kentucky?

    There are plenty of beautiful, scenic trail races in Kentucky. Some trail 10k events include Yamacraw 10k, Hot Hot Hundred 10k and Harrods Creek Trail Bash 10k.  Many of these races in Kentucky are challenging, with technical terrain and steep climbs, so be sure to check the race's information before signing up.

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  • Half marathons
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    About Half marathons

    A Half Marathon event consists of running 13 miles (21 kilometers) and as the label suggests, is half of a standard Marathon which is a total of 26 miles. Also, these races in Kentucky can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular one you are looking into. The popularity, participants of the half marathon distance and its events, have significantly grown since the early 2000s and they continue to do so, with significant events popping up all over the states. The growth rate of participants for the half distance is currently higher than that of the full.

    How did we choose the best Half Marathon races in Kentucky? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best Half Marathons in Louisville?

    Kentucky's largest city is host to plenty of running races.  Some of the more notable races include Urban Bourban Half Marathon and Louisville Half Marathon.   Other nearby Half Marathons include Honor Run Half Marathon and the Lucky Leprechaun Half Marathon.

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  • Marathons
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    About Marathons

    Marathon events consist of 26 miles (42 kilometers), and the courses are typically laid out through roads. Also, these races in Kentucky can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular one you are looking into. Starting in the Olympics in the early 1900s, marathons have quickly picked up in popularity, and in 2017 there are currently more than 800 events being held, and that number is consistently growing.

    How did we choose the best Marathon races in Kentucky? 

    We checked which races in Kentucky runners are looked for and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.

    What are the best Marathons in Louisville? 

    Being the largest city in Kentucky, Louisville is the host to many races.  If you are looking for a trail race, be sure to check out the Backside Trail Marathon.  If you are looking for a big city road race, there is the Louisville Marathon, Derby Festival Marathon and the Horse Capital Marathon.

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