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Jul 2010  |  By Christy Coughlin  |  Comments (0)

Ready Set Go

TAGS: August 2010 magazine, fitness, exercise, Christy Coughlin, North Shore Century, Lake Geneva, Big Shoulders, PAWS Chicago, City Solve Urban Race

September is chock-full of events in a variety of sports, for all levels of athlete, and some for the entire family. Here’s a sampling of events in the area:

For Trail Runners:
The final race in the new Chicago Trail Series is the Old School Trail 4 Mile, on September 4 in Libertyville. Up until now, Chicago area runners have had few trail racing options. This series exposes runners to the miles of trails in local forest preserves. Trail running engages your body and mind as you jump over fallen trees, maneuver around rocks and splash through streams.

For Cycling Enthusiasts:
Bike the North Shore Century on September 12, beginning in Evanston. Choose from five distances, 25 to 100 miles. This ride takes you on a picturesque tour of the lakefront communities up to Kenosha. The beauty of organized rides is a planned course, technical assistance, food and drink along the way, and the energy of the crowd.

For Multisport Athletes:
Drive north for the Lake Geneva Triathlon Series on September 11. Four distance options from “super sprint” to “half extreme” will please rookies and veterans. The lake waters are warm and calm, the bike from Fontana beach is scenic and rolling, and the run challenges with a killer hill. This race is a close-in option with an out-in-the-country feel.

For "Fish":
Join the growing number of Chicagoland Masters swimmers for the 20th annual Big Shoulders 5K and 2.5K Lake Swim. The start, at Ohio Street Beach, is breathtaking, set against the city towers. Lake waters can be 70 degrees and flat, or 60 and choppy. There is a wetsuit division but real swimmers toe the line in just a Speedo. Big time bragging rights for those who master the 5K.

For Adventurers:
The City Solve Urban Race on September 11 involves teams of two using their brains and bodies to complete this Chicago version of the Amazing Race. Clues, challenges, navigation, scavenger hunts, running and public transportation combine to make this a memorable day. Team up with your teenager in the family division for a great bonding activity.

For Dog Lovers:
Plenty of smiles and wagging at the PAWS Run for Their Lives on September 26 in Chicago. Run the human 8K race or team up with your best friend for the 4K walk. Have a blast with the entire family and enjoy post-race fun focused on your pooch.