Need a Reason for Sunshine? Escape the tough winter weather and turn a marathon into a vacation. BY CHRISTINE LUFF 1 4 2 28 RUNNER’S WORLD
ROCK 'N' ROLL LAS VEGAS MARATHON When: November 13, 2018 1 Where: Las Vegas, Nevada Why do it: The Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon promises all the fun and excitement of Vegas, without the risk. The race course will feature live bands, cheerleaders and themed water stations to entertain participants in true Las Vegas style. The race starts at night, so runners run under the neon lights on the strip. HONOLULU MARATHON When: Dec. 11, 2018 2 Where: Honolulu, Hawaii Why do it: Say "Aloha!" to the Honolulu Marathon if you want to sightsee on-the-go. You'll forget all about the winter blues as you run through the streets of Honolulu, along the breathtaking coastline and around the base of Diamond Head, an extinct volcano. The finish line is in Waikiki, one of the most popular surfing spots in Hawaii. WALT DISNEY WORLD MARATHON When: January 8, 2018 3 Where: Orlando, Florida Why do it: If you're a Disney fan or you're just looking for a unique marathon experience, the Walt Disney World Marathon is a must. The race kicks off with an pre-dawn fireworks display and then takes you through all four Walt Disney World theme parks starting at Epcot, continuing on to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios and then back to Epcot for an exhilarating finish. The flat course is very beginner-friendly and the Mickey Mouse shaped medal makes running 26.2 miles well worth the effort. ROCK 'N' ROLL ARIZONA MARATHON When: Jan. 15, 2018 Where: Phoenix, Ariz. Why do it: If music is what helps keep you motivated and focused during your runs, then check out the Arizona Rock 'n' Roll Marathon. Whatever your music tastes may be, you're sure to love one of the many live bands performing along the entire course. Camelback Mountain, one of Phoenix's signature landmarks, will serve as a picturesque backdrop throughout a portion of the course. And, don't worry, you won't feel like you've been "deserted" once you cross the finish line -- you'll be greeted by even more live music, refreshments and ice-cold beer. 4 3 5 MIAMI MARATHON When: Jan. 29, 2018 5 Where: Miami, Fla. Why do it: If you're looking for a high-energy marathon with beautiful views of South Florida, then the Miami Marathon may be a good option for you. As you run through paradise there will be 15 Miami-style entertainment stations keeping your morale high. The course is relatively flat and weaves through downtown, over bridges as well as along the Biscayne Bay and Atlantic Ocean's turquoise waters. Keep your eyes peeled -- some places along the marathon route may look familiar to you because many movies and TV shows have been filmed there. WINTER EDITION, 2018 29