The new year always conjures up new beginnings and promises of getting healthier or just shedding excess holiday pounds. If you’re searching for a way to jump start your 2020’s new year’s resolutions, consider running a 5K, 10K or half marathon with Sedona’s red rocks as your stunning backdrop on Feb. 1 as part of RunSedona.
The race – now in its 14th year – kicks off at the Sedona Medical Center (3700 W. AZ-89A). Each of the three races have different routes. But all the roughly 3,000 participating runners can look forward to stunning Sedona scenery from Dry Creek Road. The social media manager for RunSedona, Kegn Moorcraft, says to expect views of Thunder, Bear and Doe Mountains in addition to the Cockscomb Butte and Lizard Head red rock formations. The race is out and back, meaning you turn around at a certain point and reverse course – giving you a different vantage point. The entire race is on paved roads.
If you decide to compete, be prepared for a tough race. This is a gorgeous, but hilly course. Kegn, who completed the half marathon, says to expect a challenge. “It’s all up and down. It’s a challenge in every way. I’m constantly telling people to get out and train the hills,” says Kegn. But the payoff of finishing can make the effort worth it. “When they cross that line, you see so many different emotions.”
Be prepared for a lively environment too. Aid stations are available every two miles so runners can fuel up with food and drink. But they’re also there to provide emotional support. One group to look forward to is Flagstaff, Arizona based Northern Arizona Trail Runners Association, who always go all out. Kegn tells us last year the group dressed up as zombies.
“It’s a good mix of energy and fun and something special around every turn,” says Kegn.
If you decide to run the race, consider using the hashtag #runred on social media throughout the event. Post-race, runners can enjoy a beer garden, vendors, food trucks, a massage tent and a celebratory atmosphere until 3 p.m. “RunSedona could be on anyone’s goal list. Anyone’s bucket list as the perfect place to run a half marathon or a 10K or 5K,” says Kegn. “You can’t beat the scenery.”
Race prices range from $50 to $70. Rates increase starting on Jan. 1. Finishers receive medals. The event may be cancelled in the event of severe weather. For more information, visit runsedona.com.
