With a new year comes new resolutions and we know a lot of you (if not most of you) are thinking about your fitness goals for the year. To help, we've put together a list of local sporting events in Beaumont and southeast Texas you shouldn't miss in 2014.
February 22: YMCA Mardi Gras 5K and Kids K on the Seawall
Join the YMCA of Southeast Texas for their annual Mardi Gras on the Seawall 5K and Kids K. This chip-timed race lets you enjoy the seawall while getting fit.
March 8: Exygon & Baptist Hospitals Gusher Marathon, SETMA Half Marathon & Kinsel Ford 5K
This chip-timed event shows off the sights of Beaumont and is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. Race distances include a Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K.
March 8: Heads or Tails Cycling Time Trial
New to Beaumont this year, the Heads or Tails Cycling Time Trial is run in conjunction with the Gusher Marathon.
March 15: Big Thicket Bike Tour
Presented by the Southeast Texas Hike & Bike Coalition, the Big Thicket Bike Tour is a family-oriented bicycle ride with five routes, as short as 14 miles and as long as 100 miles. All courses are along the Big Thicket National Preserve country-side.
May 3: The Biggest Loser Run/Walk Half Marathon, 5K and Kids 1 Mile
A race for all fitness levels, whether you are ready to set a personal record or this is your first race. The Biggest Loser RunWalk will feature Jeff Nichols and Francelina Morillo from Season 14, and Dan & Jackie Evans from Season 5 of The Biggest Loser TV series.
May 16: Moonlight Madness Bicycle Ride
Enjoy live entertainment, door prizes, and family fun at this beginner level ride. Presented by the City of Beaumont Parks & Recreation, Beaumont Police Department and Bicycle Sports.
May 24: Daisies and Dragons Duathlon for Kids
Daisies and Dragons Duathlon for Kids is an opportunity for kids up to 12 years of age to participate in a fun, family-oriented event to promote health. The event consists of a 1K run followed by a 2 mile bike ride and another 1K run. All youth receive a finisher's medal.
June 2 - August 18: Sea Rim Striders Summer Run Series
Each Monday night from June 2nd to Aug 18th, the Sea Rim Striders hosts an evening run at a local park. These informal runs are a great way to get to know other runners and walkers in the area, and you do not have to be a member to participate.
June 7: Spindletop Spin Bike Ride
Enjoy the sights of Beaumont on this annually held bike ride. Routes include: 12, 29, 52 and 95 mile distances. Free food and music after the ride!
June 13: Calder Twilight 5K
The Calder Twilight 5K is a closed course, chip-timed race that showcases Calder Avenue as well as takes you through historic Old Town. Presented by the City of Beaumont and the Sea Rim Striders.
August 22: Sabine Causeway 5K
Run to Louisiana & back to Texas - twice! Start on the Texas side of the bridge, cross into Louisiana and return to Texas. Repeat the route and finish where the race started. This is a great training run for the Pleasure Island Bridge Run in November.
September 13: Beaumont Police Officer's Association Run to Remember 5K
A scenic course through downtown Beaumont benefiting the Beaumont Police Officer's Association.
October 4: Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run: Color Rush
Lace up and save lives! This year's 5K Ribbon Run takes place at Beaumont City Hall in downtown and promises to be a "colorful" experience.
November 8: Pleasure Island Bridge Half Marathon, 10K and 2 Mile
Half Marathon and 10K, take on the challenge of a bridge 5,032 feet in length and 138 feet above the Sabine-Neches Canal. 2 Miles, enjoy the speed of a flat, fast course.
November 27: Triangle Therapeutics Turkey Trot 10K, 5K and Kids K
Get your Thanksgiving started off right with a 5K or 10K run. There's even an opportunity to get the kids involved with the Kids K.
December 6: Habitat for Humanity Jingle Bell Run
The chip-timed event takes place at Tyrrell Park and includes a 5K and a Kids K Fun Run. Medals will be given in age/gender groups. Bells will be distributed to all runners and prizes will be awarded to runners dressed in the most spirited holiday attire.
Stay motivated! Find more information on local running groups and hotspots here. Or, download our free hiking & biking trail maps here. For more information on local weekly runs and rides or details on the events listed above, please visit our calendar of events.
