Upcoming San Diego Marathons & Fun Runs

Hello 2013. It’s so nice to see you. I have this unshakable feeling that I was supposed to do something…Oh, that’s right. Set resolutions. Of course.

Whether it’s your fall-back goal for the sixth year in a row or your first time signing up for a half, make this year’s start count. The quickest way to get back in shape is successfully completing a race, whether it's on your own or with a team of friends. But who said these have to be boring? The city that brings you hot nightlife now introduces a party on the move in the Electric Run on February 2. The resolution to spend more time with your pup can be easily accomplished in the Petco 5K9 Walk Run on January 13. The fun runs, marathons and obstacle courses that encourage costumes and reward you with free beer at the end? That’s just icing on the cake.

Discover upcoming San Diego runs and races

New Me 5K Fun Run – January 5

Over in Coronado, hit the restart button with the New Me 5K Fun Run presented by San Diego SoleMates. This conquerable course remains relatively flat with inspiring views of the San Diego harbor and skyline. Kids can join in a race of their own, a 1/3 mile loop through the inner portion of Tidelands Park. All participants will receive a commemorative medal and can celebrate their finish with a post-race party including food, drinks, music and more. 8 a.m., $20+ registration. sdsolemates.com

Resolution Run – January 6

The first step in starting your year off right is making a practical commitment. That’s where the San Diego Resolution Run comes in, offering locals a chance to get moving in the fresh air with plenty of other committed participants.  This year’s 5K and 15K Resolution Run will take place at De Anza Cove in Mission Bay. The San Diego Resolution Run has become an environmentally-friendly event that supports the San Diego Roots Sustainable Food Project. 6 a.m., $30+ registration. sandyfeetevents.com

2nd Annual Flight Line Dash – January 12

The MCAS Miramar Officers Wives Club (OWC) is rounding up locals to participate in the 2nd Annual Flight Line Dash. Take your pick between the big-deal 10K run, the more approachable 5K run/walk or the 1K “Aviator Scramble” for kids. The course will bend along the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Flight Line and over the hills of the base. The Flight Line Dash raises funds for services within the military community. 8 a.m., $30+ registration. flightlinedash.com

Petco 5K9 Walk Run – January 13

Your four-legged friends lead the way on this 5K course that benefits the Petco Foundation. Taking place at the Del Mar Racetrack, the pooch-parade offers a 5K and one-mile option. Walkers and runners alike can join the course, and all are welcome with or without a pup. The event will also feature a Pet & Fitness Expo where pets and their pals can shop together for sports products, pet products and more. Everyone will be wagging their tails! 8 a.m., $29-$49 same -day registration.  $10 parking. 5k9walkrun.com

Carlsbad Marathon & Half – January 27

This winter marathon is a San Diego tradition, pulling locals out of their holiday slumps and through to the finish line. Whether you’re participating in the full marathon or half, the Carlsbad course offers a spectacular coastal route, continuous entertainment, and finisher’s medals, virtual goodie bags, post-race refreshments and much more. The Carlsbad Half is the first part to the San Diego Triple Crown, which is later fulfilled at the La Jolla Half in April and America’s Finest City Half in August. Spots have sold out, but charity spots are still available. Check online for more information. 6am. carlsbadmarathon.com

Electric Run – February 2

Who knew raves could be sporty. This all-new run hits the Del Mar Fairgrounds with thousands of pulsating lights and eager participants moving to the sound of electronic dance music. Weave your way through an electric forest and black light tunnels while dodging lasers. Come decked out in your most neon electric gear that blinks, shines, dazzles and glows. Awards will be given to both the most creative costume and most illuminated costume. The Electric Run will also hook you up with an LED bracelet, glow necklace and glow sunglasses. This event is family friendly; children under 8 run for free. 7 p.m., $60+ registration. electricrun.com (Main Image)

Jump Start Your Heart 5K – February 9

Getting back into shape is important for you, but can also benefit the children that make up our future. Jump Start Your Heart is a nonprofit charity that supports the Children’s Heart Foundation. The yearly 5K event directly supports the foundation and helps meet the needs of children with congenital heart defects. Take a 5K walk or a nice run around Mission Bay, starting at Crown Point Shores Park. All ages are welcome and participants will receive a jump rope, t-shirt and socks. 9 a.m., $30+ registration. jumpstartyourheartsd.com

Dirty Girl Mud Run – February 9

Have you been a dirty girl? Now’s your chance to strut it out at the Dirty Girl Mud Run, an experience that promises to keep you laughing while moving through obstacles named H2OMG and PMS (Pretty Muddy Stuff). The 5K Mud Run is made for women of all ages and abilities – basically, anyone willing to get muddy.  The race partners with the National Breast Cancer Foundation to assist in their mission to help women in need with education, early detection and treatment.  In 2013, Dirty Girl has a goal of delivering over $1,000,000 in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Teams are welcome and encouraged. 8 a.m., $75+. godirtygirl.com

San Dieguito Half – February 10

For high goal setters, sign up for one of America’s oldest half marathons. The San Dieguito Half is celebrating 45 years of race history as it hosts participants through San Dieguito County Park in Rancho Santa Fe. The scenic route also offers a 5K run/walk option. 2,500 racers will continue to be a part of the race’s rich tradition. Participants will receive a 45th Annual long-sleeve shirt. 8 a.m., $37+ registration. kathyloperevents.com

Discover more fun ways to workout in our San Diego fitness blog