2021 Charlotte Marathon starting line. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios
This guide is proudly presented by OrthoCarolina – our partners in healthy living. If you want more outdoor itinerary inspiration, check out OrthoCarolina’s blog. Happy exploring.
Charlotte has plenty of races, whether you’re an avid runner, trying to get in shape, or looking to try something new.
Here are 12 races to consider running (or walking) in 2022.
Charlotte Running Club Winter Classic 2022
This race has two options: an Elite 8K (must finish under 40 mins) and an Open 8K. Registration closed today, Jan. 20.
- Distance: 8K
- Surface: Greenway
- Date: Feb. 6
- Location: McAlpine Creek Park
Cupid’s Cup 5K
Nothing says love like walking/running to support Atrium’s cardiac rehab program. This year, the event is virtual so you can pick your own path.
- Distance: 5K or 1 mile
- Surface: Your choice
- Date: Feb. 5-12
- Location: Virtual
Truist Corporate Cup 5K & Half Marathon
It’s the 43rd annual race, and it kicks off the 2022 YMCA race series and serves as a fundraiser for the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. The race is in-person, with a virtual option.
- Distance: 5K and half marathon
- Surface: Road
- Date: March 5
- Location: Truist Field
Charlotte Dog Jog
Whether you love running with your own dog, or appreciate being around other peoples’ dogs, this race is for animal lovers.
- Distance: 5K
- Surface: Greenway
- Date: March 5
- Location: McAlpine Creek Park
Run Jen Run 5K
The 10th annual 5K benefits Go Jen Go, a nonprofit helps financially support those with breast cancer and their families. The race concludes with a celebration.
- Distance: 5K
- Surface: Road
- Date: March 12
- Location: Symphony Park, SouthPark
New South Trail Marathon
For those who prefer to take their runs through nature, consider signing up for the New South Trail Marathon. The Whitewater Center has tons of other races happening this year, too. Find the schedule here.
- Distance: Half marathon and marathon
- Surface: Trail
- Date: April 2
- Location: Whitewater Center
Photo: Axios file photo
Charlotte Racefest Half Marathon & 10K
Run through SouthPark neighborhoods, or participate virtually if you prefer to avoid the crowds.
- Distance: Half Marathon and 10K
- Surface: Road
- Date: April 9
- Location: SouthPark (or virtual)
Elizabeth 8K Road Race
Partake in tradition with the 36th annual Elizabeth 8K Road Race, 1.5-mile run/walk and kid’s fun run.
- Distance: 8K
- Surface: Road
- Date: April 30
- Location: Elizabeth
Brew Dash
Run all the miles, and then have a beer to celebrate.
- Distance: 6K and 12K
- Surface: Trail
- Date: June 18
- Location: U.S. National Whitewater Center
Around the Crown 10K
You’ve probably sat in traffic on I-277 at some point. There have been several times where I’ve thought, “I could run faster than we’re moving right now.” ATC10K gives you a chance to do just that–run on I-277.
- Distance: 10K
- Surface: Road
- Date: Sept. 4
- Location: Uptown and I-277
Photo: Axios file photo
Charlotte Marathon
Charlotte’s only road marathon is the perfect challenge to end 2022.
- Distance: Kids dash, 5K, half marathon, and marathon
- Surface: Road
- Date: Nov. 12
- Location: Uptown
Charlotte Turkey Trot
Join the Charlotte tradition, and trot on Turkey Day for the 34th annual Charlotte Turkey Trot.
- Distance: 1 mile, 5K or 8K
- Surface: Road
- Date: Nov. 24 (Thanksgiving)
- Location: SouthPark
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