JB’s Races of the Month
By: Judy Phillips
Get your Irish on!
There are so many races in March celebrating St. Patrick’s from which to choose that you can easily do two per weekend if you’re willing to travel. One of our favorites was the St. Paddy’s Five Miler in Portsmouth, which, unfortunately is no longer held. We have great memories of running through the icy winds on the mostly flat course. But – no worries! We’ve discovered some newer races and have some old favorites.
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The Shamrock Shuffle, Lebanon, NH, Saturday March 14
Most of the local runners love this race. The course is described as relatively flat, taking you through neighborhoods and along the Mascoma River (my favorite part). Note, I have learned that “relatively flat” in any race in Northern New England means there will be a hill or two, but they are manageable and offer a bit of a challenge. It’s a perfect way to sport your best green hats, scarves and running gear, and the (almost!) start to Spring running. We’ve run through mud, snow and icy patches….one year, a woman was running along side me barefoot. I was in awe! It’s wonderful to start the day with a local race with participants of all ages, then follow up with a burger and a beer, or your favorite post-race treat, at Salt Hill or Molly’s.
Link here.
Away
Citizens Bank Half Shuffle Relay, Manchester, NH, Saturday March 28 & Sunday March 29
If you’re looking for a challenge, and enjoy a road trip, consider the Golden Shamrock Challenge organized by Millennium Running. MR’s races are among the best, and if you’ve never done their races, we highly recommend signing up for one. This challenge consists of the Shamrock Half Marathon on Saturday, March 28th and the Shamrock Shuffle on Sunday, March 29th. There is also the option to run the Half as a 3-person relay with exchange zones at 2 Irish pubs. The Shuffle is a 2 mile run; a great recovery race following the half. The course for the half winds its way through Manchester and is mostly flat. The Shuffle is a loop that starts and finishes at Veterans’ Park in downtown Manchester. For more fun, the Manchester St. Patrick’s Parade starts immediately after the Shuffle. MR’s events are always well- managed, fun events, and lots of families participate in the shorter races.
Link here.
