Summer Fitness Events in the QC (July 2011 Issue)

Immediately after my editor asked me to feature some upcoming events in Uptown this August, I got a text message from William, an ex-boyfriend and close friend of mine:


William: “What are you doing this upcoming weekend?”

Me: “Probably the usual…hanging out…reading…finding a cure for cancer. What’s up?”

William: “I just saw something interesting that I want to get into—Metro Dash is in Charlotte this weekend!”

“Metro Dash,” I thought. “What in the world is Metro Dash?” Naturally I asked him, but that only prompted him to send me the link for me to research it myself, along with one for “Warrior Dash.” Thus I began my research and decided that not only am I unaware of all that Charlotte has to offer, but he has just inspired my next article!

Warrior Dash takes place August 27 and 28 in the Huntersville area, and is a music-filled obstacle course, where each participant wears a warrior helmet (like those worn by the Vikings), a t-shirt and wins a medal at completion. Described on their Web site as an “extreme run from hell,” this certainly sounds like a challenge not for the weak-minded. The course offers fire leaps and mud crawling with Metro Dash being similar, but was held in June.

Another option you may not be familiar with is the Presbyterian Hospital sponsored Charlotte Criterium bicycle race, held July 30. The Criterium is a multi-lap race which is very spectator-friendly. The race serves as a benefit for the Brain Tumor Fund of the Carolinas (BTFC), a not-for-profit organization founded by a Charlotte neurosurgeon.

Also, there is a Wellness event being held at 2 p.m. on August 7 to discuss the correct foods to eat and which ones to run away from to ensure a healthy lifestyle. There is no cost to attend! For more information or to register, call Latta Plantation Nature Center at (704) 875-1391.

Like most Charlotteans, I enjoy being outside basking in the weather, being active and soaking up the sun rays. If you are into races around town where you can do all of the above, here are some more items of interest outside of August:

• River Bound Race at the U.S. National Whitewater Center – July 16 (5K and 15K) and September 4 (5K and Half-Marathon) http://usnwc.org/2010/12/2011-river-bound-race-series/

• Big Red Shoe 5K and Festival, benefitting the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte - Saturday, September 10. To register, visit http://bigredshoe5k.eventbrite.com/

• The Cornwell Center at Myers Park Baptist Church will be hosting a weight loss competition. See the site for details: http://www.mpbconline.org/mpbc/cornwell%20center/home.htm

• Race for the Cure 5k and Fitness Walks - October 1 in Uptown; http://www.komencharlotte.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/

For more information on Warrior Dash, visit www.warriordash.com.

For more information on next year’s Metro Dash, visit www.metrodash.com.

Until next time, stay healthy and happy...