Need a fun way to get back in shape or something to train for this fall? You should sign up for the Ath Half! For the 13th annual time, on October 23rd at 7:30 am, Athens will be holding their very own half marathon. It is hard to beat a beautiful fall morning in Athens, Georgia so why not spend it celebrating with the whole town? It is also a non-game day weekend so what else would you be doing?
As you run through the lively downtown, through UGA's campus, and finish just outside of the hedges through Sanford stadium, you will see your face on the jumbotron, exhausted yet smiling, and know you only have a few steps left! Throughout the race, it is hard not to feel encouraged as at each corner there is either a cheering crowd or a local Athens band. Whether you are running through the 5-points neighborhoods or down Milledge, excited little kids, families, sorority girls, you name it are outside screaming with signs, water, and maybe even beer! The Athens community, whether running or cheering, goes all out and it quickly becomes obvious why they were named the #1 College Town Race for a reason.
Have never run a half marathon before and do not know where to start? 13.1 miles can seem overwhelming and far-fetched, however, with a good training plan and confidence in yourself, nothing can stop you! Fleet Feet has a free training program that meets every Saturday morning at 7 am where you can get your long run over with for the week and do it with the Athens community. They plan out a different route every week and slowly increase the mileage to prepare you perfectly for race day. It can also be a fun way to meet the runners of the area and have some friends on race day. 13.1 is sounding a little too far but still want to be involved? There is also a 5k the day before on Saturday, October 22nd and both races always need volunteers!
Sounds intriguing, where do I go from here? Google "Ath Half" and you will quickly be led to a page where you can register for the race and get every race detail! The price is $85 until September 30th and then goes up to $95 in October. This price includes an Ath Half t-shirt, race packet, medal, food and drinks at the end of race celebration, and support for the music and arts of Athens. The Ath Half is produced by AthFest Educates, a local nonprofit, and funds high-quality music and arts education for the local K-12 youth. So, you are not only helping your health but are also giving the children of Athens more access to music and the arts.
Want to glow in that after-race picture making it seem like barely you sweat a drop? Treat yourself to SWAKE's very own sweat-proof foundation! Also, when picking up your race packet on Saturday, come and say hi as we will have a table there and maybe even a surprise SWAKE item for you!
Love this content? Subscribe to our email list to receive weekly SWAKE updates regarding all things beauty x fitness!