Spring into Shape: Local 5K Runs and Other Exercise Challenges

Spring weather is showing up in Carroll County which inspires many to get out and stretch those muscles. Start the spring off with a 5K, triathlon or other exercise challenge. Here is a sampling of upcoming events. Know of more? Add them in the comments below. 

Carroll County Zumbathon

When/Where: Winfield Fire Hall, 1320 W Old Liberty Road in Sykesville, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Details: Join 300+ Zumba Fitness enthusiasts, including 20 of Central Maryland's finest Zumba Fitness instructors for two hours of Zumba Fitness to benefit Freedom Area Recreation Council (FARC) programs in the Carroll County area. What is Zumba Fitness? Its an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party thats moving millions of people toward joy and health. For more information visit www.freedomfitness.info.

St. Patrick's Day Duathlon, Hampstead

When/Where: Saturday, March 16, 7:30 a.m. start time at North Carroll High School.  

Details: The duathlon includes a 3.1 mile run, 18 mile bike, 2.5 mile run. Duathlon is $75 until March 15. Duathlon relay is $100 until March 15. The 5k is $40 until March 15. Can register on March 15 for all events during packet pick-up at The YMCA of Carroll County, 4 - 8 p.m. if spots are still available. There is also packet pick-up on race day, March 16, 2012, from 5:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. at race site. Race day registration is not currently available. Get more details at http://www.endurancemaryland.com.

Quarry Man Triathlon, New Windsor

When/Where: June 30, 7 a.m. start time at Hyde's Quarry in New Windsor.

Details: Triathlon includes a 400 meter open water swim, 15 mile bike and 5k run. Wave Start (water temperature averages 70 degrees in late June), scenic and hilly bike route and shaded 2 x loop off road run. Customized finisher's medal for every finishing participant.Race closes at 1000 athletes. Price through March 31 is $115 for the triathlon and $205 for the relay. 

2nd Annual CHANGE, Inc. 5K Run/1 Mile Walk

When/Where:  Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m. at the Washington Road Community Trail in Westminster.

Details: Race will start in front of the Carroll County Youth Service Bureau on Kate Wagner Road and commence on the Washington Road Community Trail (www.wrctrail.org). There will be two race loops -- one for 5k Runners and one for one Mile Walkers. Race terrain consists of sidewalk, asphalt and hiking trail. This will be a timed event. Post race refreshments will be served with water on course. Registration begins at 8 a.m. For more information visit the Change, Inc. website.

Walk MS 5K Westminster

When/Where: April 21, 9 a.m. at Carroll Community College

Details: For more information, visit the organization website.