Phoenix was the first stop for this new "fun run". The Color Fun Fest 5K is super family-oriented. It's a great one for runner families to get everyone involved. I even saw tons of strollers out there! Kids 12 and under get in FREE!
The proceeds go to two LOCAL kids charities. So it's all for a great cause. You get filthy but it's worth it. Don't go planning to PR. This is a FUN RUN. Wear old clothes and bring an extra pair to change into afterwards.
Parking is $10 but again, it's all for a good cause. The course is a loop out and back around the outskirts of the large pavillion parking lot. This was the first stop on the tour. You can check out a more lengthy review on my blog: http://confessionsofanamateurathlete.blogspot.com/2014/03/color-fun-fest-5k-race-review.html

This is a Rock N Roll Marathon Series race, and so it's always a great experience! I always suggest running a Rock N Roll Race to anyone doing their first half or full marathon because there are so many people and volunteers out on the course that it really gets the adrenaline flowing and helps push you when you need it!

The best part about this race is the weather! 65-70 degrees by the time you finish! How awesome is that? Plus, Rock N Roll races always have the best expos! Lots of free swag, samples, and giveaways. It's definitley a runner's paradise at the expo!

For my full review you can check out my blog here: http://confessionsofanamateurathlete.blogspot.com/2014/01/rock-and-roll-arizona-race-review.html

I've actually ran this race Twice now. When I ran it in 2011 the race management was less to be desired. I left extremely early to get to the start and had to end up running with dozens of other racers to get there AFTER the gun went off! However, I will say they corrected a TON of issues like this one by the time I re-ran in 2013.

You do run a large portion of the race on the freeway, so although you're running in San Diego you're not really running past all the beautiful beaches, etc CA has to offer. That's the only downside of this race course. Otherwise, it's got a few challenging hily portions but nothing too horrible.

The shuttle services have been ironed out as well as the course itself, so I had very few issues this last time I ran it and was very pleased with it. I highly sugest this race mostly for anyone looking for a "vacation race". San Diego is always a great place to getaway and what better way to enjoy the city than to run through it! But take a few days off so you can enjoy a little time at the beach as well!

If you haven't done a Ragnar Relay before... DO IT! Amazing adventure! I was part of an Ultra team so we ran the 190+ miles with only 6 people as opposed to the normal 12. My total mileage added up to about 38 miles. It was rough, it was extremely challenging, but I enjoyed EVERY minute of it!

There are now TRAIL Ragnar Relays being offered and I'll be taking part in one this summer. Can't wait! The atmosphere is completely different at these races. Everyone is out there to have a good time and just finish! Runners of every shape, size, and speed are present!

If you can gather up a full team and take part in one of these great adventures, I highly recommend you do it! It can get a little pricey, but it's totally worth the challenge!