Lots of runners in Chicago run outside through the winter; Probably the same number hibernate or hit the gym. Several years ago some intrepid (and slightly crazy) runners decided to host a half marathon in January on the lake front. It was called the F@#$ing Frozen Freezing Half. What started as a few people is now a huge event. Last year, it was “polar vortex” cold. I had just run the Houston Marathon the weekend before, so I got the bright idea to volunteer. It was F@#$ing freezing for sure. I do run outside through the winter, but I infrequently race. I have never run in the F^3 (as it is now known). Well, like my post from yesterday said, “never say never.”
The nice folks at REM-Fit are sponsoring the F^3 Lake Half Marathon this year and they offered me and one lucky reader a free entry. To be honest, my volunteer stint did not make me super interested in this run, but they moved it to Soldier Field where it will be warmer pre and post (at least there will be indoor bathrooms!) And, it starts at 10:00 AM which feels pretty leisurely. Like Emily said in her giveaway post, she has heard rave reviews from Erin, Amanda, Kelly, Maggie, and Maureen and it is “definitely a ‘badge of honor’ race.” Yup, runners, we’re just different.
REM-Fit is offering a free race registration ($70 value) to one lucky reader. As a BONUS, REM-Fit will also provide the giveaway winner with the new REM-Fit Active, which is a sleep and activity tracker. (More details to come on that soon! It’s brand new!)
Race 411:
- Date: Saturday, January 24, 2015
- Time: 10:00 AM CST
- Location: Start and Finish Soldier Field. Check out the course map.
- Swag: A beanie hat, tech gloves, and a finisher medal (Yes, that is a bottle opener. You deserve a whole 6 pack for this one!)
Want to win? Use the Rafflecopter below to enter. Giveaway ends Monday 12/29 giving you plenty of time to train and toughen up! Not up for the half marathon? They have a 5K option, too. (Still pretty bad ass!) Giveaway includes race entry and fitness tracker only. Any travel or race related expenses are not included. You run the race at your own risk. Giveaway runs through Sunday 12/28 and a winner will be selected and notified on 12/29. Offer is void where prohibited.
What crazy things are you planning to keep up your fitness level this winter?
PS. Don’t miss Emily’s giveaway – ends 12/22.