Five North Texas Races to Kick Off your New Year’s Fitness Goals – CandysDirt.com

One of the hardest parts of New Year’s Resolutions is sticking with them if you don’t have a plan. If getting in shape is one of your resolutions this year, walking or running is a great way to do it. Having a race to train for keeps you accountable and gives you something to both look forward to and an attainable, short-term goal to aspire to.

There are so many races, all year long for runners and walkers at every level, to be found all over North Texas. You can probably find a community in your area if you want to join a group for training for additional accountability. The YMCA is a great resource for this, or just find your local running store. Here are five North Texas races coming up that span distances from a family fun run to a half marathon.

Hotcake Hustle

When: Jan, 11, 2025

What: This family-friendly race includes a 10K, 5K, and a Fun Run followed by a pancake breakfast with the beverage of your choice (coffee, hot chocolate, or ice cold beer) at the beautiful Oak Point Nature Preserve in Plano. The charity partner this year is Animal Rescue Crusaders of Texas, an all-volunteer animal rescue in Plano.

Where: Oak Point Nature Preserve

More Info: Race website

Peticolas Brewery Social Runs

When: Jan, 11, 2025

What: This monthly social run starts and ends at the brewery and is meant to keep you in shape for the annual Velvet Hammer 5K. The cost of $30 includes breakfast from That Taco Dude, three brews of your choice post-run, plus a custom social run glass can with a fun new monthly theme.

Where: Peticolas Brewery

More Info: Race website

Bigfoot Classic Fort Worth

When: Jan. 12, 2025

What: The Bigfoot Classic is a scenic race through lush Texas terrain with a distance for every level — one mile, 5K, 10K, and 15K. DJ Sasquatch will keep the energy flowing with live beats, and don’t forget to dress up for the Legendary Beast Costume Contest. Dress up as Bigfoot or any legendary beast for a chance to win. All finishers receive a medal and a shirt, and there will be refreshments at the end of the race.

Where: River Side Trailhead, 3101 Riverfront Drive, Fort Worth

More Info: Race website

Time Travel Half Marathon

When: Jan. 18, 2025

What: Part of a three-city series of races that includes Austin and San Antonio, the Time Travel Half also includes a children’s Fun Run, a 5K, and a 10-K, and is sponsored by Bodie’s Racing Company.

Where: Anderson Bonner Park, 12700 Park Central Drive, Dallas

More Info: Race website

Too Cold To Hold

When: Feb. 1, 2025

What: Celebrating its 30th year the iconic Too Cold to Hold Half, 10K, 5K, andVirtual Run is a favorite among runners and fitness enthusiasts. The after-party includes warm drinks, ice-cold beer, free food, and live music. Participants will receive a cool 30th-anniversary shirt and medal.

Where: Norbuck Park/ White Rock Lake

More Info: Race website