Clearwater Beach Provides Perfect Backdrop for High-Profile Road Racing Events

For years Clearwater Beach has been known at the "Florida Gulf Coast" ideal vacation destination. But in recent years, it’s become a hot spot for high profile road racing events like 5Ks, marathons, and triathlons – athletic events that showcase not just the competition, but the scenery, in attracting race participants.



The Iron Girl Event Series came to Clearwater in 2005, offering a 5k and a half-marathon to women only. The event continues into 2011 and aims to empower women by promoting healthy lifestyles. They even offer a Mother-Daughter division where mothers and daughters race as a team, as well as a division for cancer survivors. The race starts at Clearwater Beach’s famed Pier 60 and features the Memorial Causeway Bridge and the beach itself.



Another popular event among road racers is the Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3, featuring some of the world’s toughest male and female athletes. Competitors must swim 1.2 miles in the Gulf, followed by a 56-mile bike ride through Pinellas County, and finish with a 13.1 mile run downtown. The event attracts athletes from all over the world and also features a large health and wellness expo that is popular among visitors and locals.



For those who aren’t quite up to the level of "Ironman" or "Ironwoman," Clearwater Beach offers plenty of other exciting events that benefit charitable causes. One of those events is the Winter’s Family Beach Fest, which features a 5k, 10k, and 15k to benefit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. Contradictory to the name, this event is held in May every year and offers both locals and those wishing to visit the area a chance to have an enjoyable time with their families while staying active.



Then there’s the always-fun Clearwater Beach Sunsets at Pier 60 series, which are great for locals and those vacationing who want to exercise in a fun, friendly atmosphere, without having to wakeup at 5 AM. Held at 7 pm, these races offer a scenic course through Clearwater Beach as the sun goes down and include a run in the sand. Cost per a single race is $10, and there is also a Kids’ Free Fun Run at 6:45.



If you decide to come to Clearwater Beach to participate in any of these events, be weary of staying in some of the crowded host hotels that often fill up fast. It can be expensive staying in a host hotel when you factor in the costs of travel and training. If you do a nearby search, you can find other, Clearwater Beach Hotels or Affordable Clearwater Beach Condos, all offered at more affordable prices. You can also look for nearby Treasure Island Florida Hotels.