Destination Races to Do in 2013

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A new year is here and that can only mean one thing: time to plan your next vacation. This year add a little competition to your vacation plans by signing up for a race in a destination worth visiting, from historic cities and tropical locales to wine country and iconic islands.

Don't see a race in a place you want to visit? Find a different race that is.
Martha's Vineyard 20 Miler
Haven, Massachusetts - February 16, 2013
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Die-hard runners have to try this race at least once in their lives. The 20-mile event is known to attract highly competitive athletes looking to test their Boston readiness. The course, which has water views for the first 10 miles and travels along forest bike paths in the second half, is perfect for recreational runners too.
Jake's Off-Road Triathlon 2013
Treasure Beach, Jamaica - April 20, 2013
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Check out Jamaica's backcountry during this classic, laid-back and fun triathlon. Treasure Beach, which is a two and half hour drive from Montego Bay, truely is a destination worth traveling to. The best part: all net proceeds benefit BREDS, a Treasure Beach charity.
Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K
Cleveland, Ohio - May 18 to May 19, 2013
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Thousands of runners descend on Cleveland every year for good reason. This event has it all: distances for every runner, cheering spectators and a flat and fast course. After the race, check out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, its hundreds of restaurants and clubs as well as its historic neighborhoods.
The Jailbreak - South Padre
South Padre Island, Texas - May 4, 2013
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Scamper over dunes and obstacles along three miles of beach in South Padre Island. After you've tackled the course, head straight from the finish line to a party at the largest beach bar in state of Texas.
Easter Island Triathlon 2013
Easter Island - Rapa Nui - May 31, 2013
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Easter Island, a Polynesian island in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, is the ultimate destination race. Keep in mind, this race has a restricted registration due to the limited number of airline seats and hotel accomodations. Not much of a triathlete? Event organizers also have a mountain bike race and marathon scheduled in the two days following the triathlon. Want not try all three?
Grapes of Rock Half Marathon
Dry Creek Valley, California - June 8, 2013
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Runners will traverse the Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County wine country in this inaugural race. At the finish line is when the party gets started with a headliner rock concert as well as tastings from local wineries and craft breweries.
The Kauai Marathon 2013
Kauai, Hawaii - September 1, 2013
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Run through lush rainforests to the top of Kalaheo, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the ocean before making a gradual descent to Poipu Beach. Recover from the big race with an ocean swim or a stroll along the island's white sand beaches.
Big Kahuna Triathlon 2013
Santa Cruz, California - September 8, 2013
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This classic long-distance triathlon starts and finishes near the historic boardwalk in Santa Cruz. Participants, who will likely encounter an average temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, will be treated to views of California's rugged coastline.
2013 Maine Lighthouse Ride
Portland, Maine - September 7, 2013
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This 100-mile ride takes participants past several state parks, beaches, museums and of course, lighthouses, as well as a jaunt through Old Orchard Beach and Saco to the quaint village of Kennebunkport. The event, which also features a 25-mile, 40-mile and 62-mile distance, is the perfect way to see Maine's iconic coast.
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