I'll be honest, I may be a little bias but if you're a runner and love visiting new cities, I am going to detail all the reasons why running or attending the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon should definitely be on your bucket list. It’s one of the most challenging, rewarding and beautiful courses in the country, and the entire city is electric come race day.
1. P&G Health and Fitness Expo.
Typically a fairly epic two-day event that fills the Duke Energy Center with vendors, sponsors, free swag, clothing, shoes, samples and any other thing you could possibly want or need for running.
2. Swag Bag.
The swag bag for this event is always amazing. This year was no exception.
3. Cincinnati knows how to party.
The party afterward on the river is always a great time. And nothing sounds better after a long run than a tall, cold beer, maybe two. They even have a Little Kings Mile race and after party on Friday night to preview the run and the party.
4. Cincy carb loading.
There are so many great options for fueling up before the long run through Cincinnati. Larosas pizza is one of my favorites. We typically like to get a big group together to pig on our pizza the night before the race. Skyline is always a close second, and if you have never had a three-way, you really have to check that off your bucket list.
Do you have any favorites? Be sure to add them to my list by commenting below!
5. Queen City skyline.
For once, I am not talking about the chili; the Cincinnati skyline is one of the most gorgeous river city views in the country.
6. Staying in Cincinnati.
The city is gorgeous and there are so many things to do.
The Banks downtown Cincinnati is an intersection of arts, culture, history, sporting events, restaurants, bars, dining and nightlife. I suggest checking out Yard House for food and drinks. They have more than 160 beers on tap and an extensive food menu.
Newport on the Levee has a ton of restaurants, shopping, events and entertainment for the public. I recommend stopping in Hofbräuhaus for a giant German-sized beer. That counts as carb loading, right?
7. Epic sponsors.
This list is long. What this means for you is a great swag bag, tons of support on the race course and wonderful freebies. There’s tons of physical medical support and emotional fuel come race day. Trust me, you’re in good hands. 2017 will mark the 19th year of the Flying Pig Marathon.
8. Variety of events.
I am just going to list these out because the assortment of options is honestly astounding. You can even do an organized brunch on Sunday morning if you’re not a runner.
Friday
Little Kings One Mile
Saturday
City Dash 4-Person Open Relay
Aetna Corporate Relay (4-Person)
Toyota 10K
Tri-State Running Company 5K
Kids' Marathon 26th Mile, presented by EY
Flying Piglet Kids' Fun Run, presented by First Watch
PigAbilities
Flying Fur Run: 1 Human and 1 Dog Package
Sunday
Flying Pig Marathon
Paycor Half Marathon
They even have fun combination varieties where the avid runner can up their game named after a Cincinnati favorite. Skyline Chili 3-Way (5K, 10K, and Half Marathon) or the Skyline Chili 3-Way Challenge with Extra Cheese (Little Kings Mile, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon) or the Skyline Chili 4-Way (5K, 10K, and Marathon) or Skyline Chili 4-Way Challenge with Extra Cheese (Little Kings Mile, 5K, 10K, Full Marathon). There really is something for everyone in your house!
9. Training Squad(s).
Cincinnati has a variety of running groups and training runs for the first timer or even the veteran runner. If you’re looking to just cross the finish line or smash a new PR, there’s a group for you! Bob Roncker’s Running Spot organizes several different options for training groups, Fleet Feet Sports, Queen City Running Club and Tri-State Running Company also offer programs just to name a few.
10. Cincinnati will restore your faith in humanity.
The first thing I typically tell people to do if they have lost all hope in the human existence is to run a race. But, let’s be honest, not all races are made the same. Cincinnati boasts some of the most beautiful courses and energetic race motivators who all there to support you! Every mile, there will be people cheering you on, offering a snack, handing you water, Vaseline or tissues. These people are there to support you and cheer you on all the way to the finish line.
If you have never been to Cincinnati or witnessed the Flying Pig first hand, you are seriously missing out! This is by far one of my most favorite races in one of my most favorite cities. You can even chow down on breakfast while waiting for a loved one to cross the finish line at the Moerlein Lager House. If you’re ready to sign up now, get on it! Registration is at an all time low until May 15. Good luck!
