Temperatures in Tucson, Arizona begin decreasing in September. Temperatures finally leave the 100s and you have more 80 and 90 degree days. As temperatures decrease, more people run and walk on local trails. The city also hosts numerous fall running events, including 10K races. These running events accommodate experienced runners and beginners who want to walk.
Oracle Run 10K
Saturday, October 31, 2009
This official Southern Arizona Roadrunners (SAR) event has taken place for 27 years. This fall 10K event, located about 40 minutes north of Tucson, takes you through the Oracle and Oracle State Park. You run on hills and rural roads on the north side of Santa Catalina Mountains, a 4,500-ft elevation. The 10K run starts at 9 a.m., followed by a 1-mile fun run/walk at 9:05 a.m. All entrants get t-shirts and trophies are awarded to top runners. Other runners receive awards as well. Entry fees are due by October 26, 2009. SAR members pay $22 and non-members pay $25. Late entries pay $35.
CATwalk 10K Run and 5K Walk
Saturday, November 14, 2009
The CATwalk is organized by University of Arizona fraternities and sororities who work with SAR. The 10K run is open to people of any age and running ability. The race is sponsored by local companies and organizations, including Sol Casinos, the University of Arizona Bookstore, and local radio and television stations. This running event raises funds the Arizona Cancer Center. For more information about this run/walk, email them at [email protected]
El Tour de Tucson
Run/Walk 10K and 5K
Sunday, September 20, 2009
This annual event takes place in Marana at Ora Mae Harn District Park, about 15 miles north of Tucson. The event, sponsored by Diamond Ventures, benefits Ben’s Bells Project. The event is open to running of all ages and skill levels. Parents can bring their babies and toddlers in strollers to this event. Participants can earn Ben’s Bells socks, t-shirts, El Tour Conquistador and Ben’s “Be Kind” Bells. You receive a special Ben’s Bell Medallion if you finish the race. They provide water at aid stations. At the finish line, you get fruit and bagels. Prizes are award in different age categories. Apply at the event website, where you can make a donation in addition to your entrance fee. You can also download a map of the running course.
Pick up running packets Saturday, September 19 at 2606 E. Broadway, Tucson, Arizona 85716 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Get to the starting line between 5:30 and 6:15 on Sunday morning. The race starts at 6:30 a.m. The awards ceremony takes place at 8 a.m.
Fall is the perfect time of year to begin running in Tucson. You don’t have to worry about extreme temperatures as you run on trails around the area. These races accommodate all skills and ages and benefit community organizations.
