If you love a good competition, but are bored to tears by standard 5Ks, consider signing up for some of these offbeat races. You'll get to challenge yourself both physically and mentally, have fun and maybe even win a prize. If all else fails, at least hang around for the after-race parties, most of which offer free beer and live music.
Beach Palooza: This isn't your typical lazy Saturday at the beach. Instead, Beach Palooza is a running event that takes place all on the sand. As you run along the beach course, you'll encounter obstacles like rope walls, pool noodle mazes and even a line of fire to jump over. Once you're finished, hang around for some beer and live music on the shores of Lake Michigan.Sat., July 30 at 11 a.m.Montrose Beach: 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr.Registration is $55 per person through July 28 and $65 on July 30
Great Urban Race: The Great Urban Race is the perfect place to show off you physical prowess and your Chicago knowledge. Teams of two or more are given twelve tasks, which can range from finding your way through a maze, canoeing, solving a riddle or completing puzzles like cryptograms and crosswords. The top three teams win cash prizes, but at the very least, it's a great excuse to dress up in themed costumes.Sat., July 23 from 12 - 5 p.m.Starts at Joe's on Weed: 940 W. Weed St.; 312-337-3486Registration is $60 per person through July 22 or $70 per person on July 23
Mudathlon: If you love a good party just as much as you like some friendly competition, then consider registering for Mudathlon. This action-packed race features more than three miles of obstacles and 100-yard mud pits. Expect boot camp-like challenges like high-stepping through tires and climbing a cargo net. After a grueling race, reward your mud-caked self at the post-race party with plenty of beer and live music.Sat., July 23 at 8 a.m.Graeber Family Farms: 236 S. 200 W., Valparaiso, IN; Registration is $75 per person
Warrior Dash: Head north to Twin Lakes, Wis. to participate in one of the area's most popular non-traditional 5K races. Warrior Dash incorporates a slew of obstacles and physical challenges like crawling through mud under barbed wire, jumping over logs and climbing over giant hay bales. After the muddy, sweaty race concludes, celebrate with food, beer and live music. The top three winners get an engraved Warrior helmet - not to mention bragging rights.Sat., Sep. 17 and Sun., Sep. 18 2305 Lance Dr., Twin Lakes, WISaturday race is $60 through Aug. 21 and $70 from Aug. 22 - Sep. 6Sunday race is $50 through Aug. 21 and $60 from Aug. 22 - Sep. 6