As winter fast approaches, most folks take their recreational activities indoors, but for those diehard outdoor types, not even the cold weather can keep them off the trails. I wouldn't consider myself a diehard outdoor type, but I did catch the running bug earlier this year. Last year I ran my first official 5k and loved it. This year, I wanted to up the ante, so I signed up for three races. I began training in early spring and completed all three successfully, improving my time with each one. As we headed into fall, I was resigned to take my training indoors to the treadmill to stay in shape, but then I found out there are three races scheduled for November and December: The Turkey Trot, The Galloping Gobbler, and Gingerbread Pursuit. What fun! So I signed up for two of them, consulted some running friends for the best cold-weather gear to purchase, and hit the road. Though it hasn't reached frigid temps yet, I have to admit that I am enjoying the cold-weather runs. Looking for some motivation to stay in shape? I encourage you to sign up for a few of these upcoming races. Most of them have a run/walk component, so you don't have to be an all-star runner to participate. The Turkey Trot, Saturday, November 17
  • 10 am start time for 5k race
  • Start and finish at Fox Island County Park
  • Registration is $15
  • All proceeds benefit Fox Island County Park Nature Center
  • For more information, visit the race website.
The Galloping Gobbler, Thanksgiving Day, November 22
  • 8:15  am start time for 8 mile race
  • 8:30 am start time for 4 mile race
  • Start and finish at the Hutzell Athletic Center at the University of St. Francis
  • Registration fee is $25 for both races
  • For more information, or to register, visit the race website.
Gingerbread Pursuit, Saturday, December 8
  • 8:30 am start time for 4 mile race
  • Start at Cinema Center at Wayne and Clay Streets, finish at the Allen County Courthouse
  • Registration fee is $18
  • For more information, or to register, visit the race website.