Runners High

Last weekend was a big one for the Southeastern running scene. On Saturday I joined 25,000 people at the Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10K, a big party of a race that ran along the tree-lined streets of Richmond's Monument Avenue. Nothing gets you through 6.2 miles like the eye candy of the Mardi Gras style rager that took place on the sidelines. Who knew a massive foot race could inspire someone to down a fish bowl-size margarita at 9 in the morning? If you're looking to try a 10K, mark this race on your calendar for next year. It's perfect for newbies. The course is fast and flat, the spring weather is bound to be crisp and clear, and the live bands and cheering supporters (some of them a little tipsy) will keep you moving.
But Richmond wasn't the only city in the region that was running. Over in Charlottesville another 2,000 people tackled the town's venerable 10-Miler. Down in Charleston, S.C., 40,000 runners took a coastal cruise at the Cooper River Bridge Run. Then on Sunday up in D.C. another 18,000 ran the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler. And in Knoxville, Tenn., another 2,000 ran the town's marathon and half-marathon. Who says the South isn't active?

-J.F.