More than 1,000 runners are expected at Avalon on Sunday, Nov. 1, for the eighth annual Alpharetta Women's Half Marathon and 5K.
The USATF-certified race, presented by Hoka, begins at 7 a.m. Sunday with a wave start at 400 Avalon Blvd. Participants are grouped by estimated finish time. Runners can choose between the half marathon and 5K distances, and the event welcomes competitive athletes, first-time racers and casual walkers.
The course winds through the Big Creek Greenway and Rock Mill Park before returning to Avalon for a post-race celebration, according to a press release from the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau. Last year's edition drew more than 1,000 female athletes from over 23 states.
"Alpharetta has become a favorite tradition because the city truly embraces our runners," Nick Lynch, president of race production company 10xEM, said in the Sept. 3 press release. "The energy along the course and at the finish line makes participants want to return year after year."
The Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau partnered with 10xEM, a Chicago-area company with more than 20 years of race production experience, to put on the event. The company has helped produce close to 200 triathlons and road races nationwide. 10xEM also operates women's running events in Washington, D.C., Naperville, Illinois, and Napa, California, as part of its National Women's Running Series.
All pre-registered participants receive an event shirt, finisher medal, goodie bag and complimentary food and refreshments at Avalon after the race.
Janet Rodgers, president and CEO of the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau, said in the Sept. 3 press release that the city's local hotels, shops and restaurants are prepared for race weekend. Special hotel rates are available at 15 Alpharetta-area hotels, ranging from $79 at Comfort Inn Alpharetta/Atlanta North to $209 at The Hotel at Avalon.
Alpharetta features 31 hotels for visitors looking to stay the weekend.
Registration is open at alpharettawomenshalf.events.
Upcoming community events
- Thursday, Oct. 15: Murder-trial memoir author visits Milton's Poe & Company bookstore.
- Sunday, Nov. 1: Alpharetta Women's Half Marathon and 5K, 7 a.m. at Avalon.
