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10 of the Weirdest, Wackiest Races in the U.S.
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This year, put a little laughter into your race season by participating in an unconventional run. This list of strange races has a little something for everyone, from crazy obstacles and mud to icy waters and fun food.
The Whole Earth Man vs. Horse Marathon
Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales
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It took 25 years for a man to actually beat a horse at this 22-mile race in Wales, but it has been proven to be possible. The course is designed to provide an even match, resulting in incredibly close finishes most years.
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Running Gear0.5K Stiletto Run
Buffalo, New York
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If you've ever tried walking in stilettos, you understand why this is just 0.5K. Each summer, hundreds of runners put on their high heels for this event and endure a half kilometer of pain to benefit the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance.
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Running GearNew York City Pizza Run
New York City
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This annual challenge requires participants to cover a two-mile course and stop at three pizza-eating checkpoints. If you think you can run fast with a belly full of pizza, this may be the event for you.
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Running GearHydroWorx Underwater Marathon
Hershey, Pennsylvania
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This event showcases HydroWorx underwater treadmills, an example of some of the technology that is used by wounded warriors in their rehabilitation. Runners complete anywhere from a 5K to a marathon to support the Eagle Fund, which works to help wounded service men and women return to a high quality of life.
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Running GearKona Underpants Run
Kona, Hawaii
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On the Thursday prior to the Ironman World Championships, triathletes strip down to their skivvies and bound through the streets of Kona. What began as a joke has turned into a highly anticipated tradition.
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Running GearRunyon 5K
New York City, New York
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This race, held in Yankee Stadium, is your chance to run the stairs and concourses of the famous facility. Be sure to stop and take in the view as you bound up and down those stadium stairs.
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Running GearKrispy Kreme Challenge
Raleigh, North Carolina
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The mantra of this event says it all: 2,400 calories, 12 doughnuts, 5 miles, 1 hour. A sugary test of mental and physical fortitude, this charity race drew more than 8,000 people last year and raised $200,000 for the North Carolina Children's Hospital.
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Running GearResolution Run 5K & Polar Bear Dive
Seattle, Washington
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This race takes place on the first day of the year and includes a 5K run and an optional "Polar Bear Dive" at the 3-mile mark. In the spirit of the race, most runners choose to hop into chilly Lake Washington.
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Running GearNew York Hot Dog Challenge
New York City
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This food-centric race requires runners to cover a 3- to 5-mile course, depending on the route you take, and to stop at every one of the ten hot dog stands. You better come hungry because this race requires you to eat a hot dog at each stop.
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Running GearTwinkie Run
Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Held on April Fool's Day each year, this race offers Twinkies to runners at the start, halfway point and the finish. The event even includes a homemade Twinkie contest. With proceeds going to Ann Arbor Against ALS, why wouldn't you want to eat and run?
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