Run Like A Girl: Ladies-Only Races

While 13.1 miles is a dreaded distance for some, half marathons are becoming the most preferred race for males and females, according to Running USA’s 2015 National Runner Survey. More than 40 percent of the 15,206 participants said half marathons are their favorite distance.

The number of women lacing up their sneaks and hitting the pavement for 13.1 miles is increasing as well, according to Rich Harshbarger, CEO, Running USA. And with so many fun perks like Tiffany necklaces waiting for them at the finish line, it’s not hard to understand why they would be drawn to pound the pavement for such a long distance.

The Nike Women’s Half Marathon in San Francisco is becoming increasingly popular, bringing women together from around the world to feel inspired, motivated and empowered. The largest women’s race series in the world awards finishers in San Francisco with the ultimate race swag: a Tiffany’s necklace in its iconic blue box, given to participants by tuxedoed gentlemen.

Across the United States, women dress up in tutus and tiaras every year at the Divas Half Marathon & 5K Series (http://www.runlikeadiva.com). The event takes place in some of the county’s best vacation destinations, including Long Island, San Juan, San Francisco, North Myrtle Beach and St. Augustine Beach. All finishers earn their crown, literally, receiving at the end of the race a big, sparkly crown-shaped medal fit for a diva.

While men are welcome, the first two corrals are reserved just for women and only the ladies can win at Walt Disney World’s Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend in Florida and Disneyland’s Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend in California.

Women can have fun and be charitable at the Queen Bee Half Marathon, benefiting a variety of women’s groups while promoting the fun of fitness.

To find an upcoming women-only half marathon near you, visit the Running in the USA calendar.