The 14 Best Road Races in Ohio!
By Mat Stevens

You might not have known that Ohio is home to some of the very best running races in America. From enormous events that bring together the community each year, to events that benefit charities, Ohio does it right when it comes to races. Here are the 14 best road races in Ohio that you should sign up for.

1. Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon, Columbus, OH

This running event, which features a full and half marathon, has raised a total of $6 million for the children’s hospital. Running in this event allows you to become a Children’s Champion as you help to fundraise for the hospital that works hard to help the lives of the children there.

2. Can't Stop Running Company Naked Run, Piqua, OH

Don't worry. The runners will be keeping their clothes on for this race, but they allow no Garmins, watches, iPod, or phones. Before the race, you'll predict your finishing time and whoever finishes closest to their prediction time wins! The cost for entry into the 5K run/walk is $15.

3. Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon, Cleveland, OH

Featuring a full marathon, a half marathon, a 10K, 8K and 5K, as well as a “Pick 2 Challenge Series,” there is a lot to choose from at this legendary Cleveland event. The race, which is held in May, is described as “relatively flat and fast with scenic views of downtown Cleveland and its major landmarks.”

4. Jingle Bell 5K, Canfield, OH

The Jingle Bell 5K is a flat and fast run through the Canfield Fairgrounds. The Jingle Bell 5K is a walk/run and kid's run on Dec 31, beginning just after noon. The price of admission is $18. The event benefits the Youngstown Road Runners Club Scholarship fund.

5. Pancakes & Resolutions Run, Miamisburg, OH

The Pancakes and Resolutions Run is a 10K, 5K, one-mile run, and kids' run, held on Jan. 1. The one-miler begins in the morning, followed by the 5K and 10K. Stick around until after for a delicious pancake breakfast.

6. Decemburrr Dash, Columbus, OH

The Decemburrr Dash is intended to be a fun and casual run/walk along the river in Genoa Park. The race is held on Dec. 17 and is located in Genoa Park behind the COSI.

7. Twilight Indoor Triathlon, Cuyahoga Falls, OH

If you're looking for an indoor race during the snowy seasons, then take a trip to Cuyahoga Falls for their annual Twilight Indoor Triathlon. The event takes place on Jan. 7 at the Cuyahoga Falls Natatorium and begins with a 20-minute swim to then continues with a 20-minute bike ride, then finishes up with a 20-minute run.

8. Run Your Pants Off, Delaware, OH

The Run Your Pants Off race runs along a 1.25-mile loop beginning and ending at Land Grant Brewing. The race takes place in December and invites you to donate clothes to the needy along the way.

9. World Race for Hope, Troy, OH

This race is presented by the Free to Run Foundation and proceeds from the event go to fight human trafficking in the Dayton area and around the world. The price of admission is $25 for the 5k run/walk.

10. Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon, Cincinnati, OH

Described as “the largest weekend party in town,” the Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinnati is widely-regarded as one of the best in the country. Athletes of all abilities are welcome at this charity marathon that brings the community together annually. Due to pigs being such a significant source of income for farmers, Cincinnati became known as “Porkopolis,” thus the name of the marathon was born.

11. Garage Sale 5K, Cleveland, OH

The Garage Sale 5K offers prizes for the top finishing male and female runners including t-shirts, hats, pint glasses and post-race food and water. The race is held on Jan. 21 and the price for entry is $12.

12. Athens Ohio Marathon, Athens, OH

This marathon has partnered with Good Works, Inc. to help raise money and build temporary homes for those waiting for space at the Timothy House, a facility that provides shelter to those who cannot access it. This marathon, starting in 1968 and held in April, is Ohio’s longest consecutively run marathon in the state.

13. Dash to the Docks, Toledo, OH

This annual event supports the Toledo Rowing Club, which is a nonprofit focused on “bringing the mental and physical benefits of rowing to all of Toledo.” The event features a 1K kid’s run as well as a 5K run/walk for everyone interested in participating.

14. Love Run, Avon Lake, OH

Proceeds for this race go to benefit the Avon Lake High School Athletic boosters. The race will be held on Feb. 4 at the Community Campus Clubhouse at the Towne Center.

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