I love to jog — mainly because I love to eat. And I suspect that I’m not alone in that line of thinking (there’s the North Olympic Discovery Marathon’s mascot cookie, shown here, for example).
For joggers, the sport culminates in road races — those adrenaline-pumping bouts of friendly competition that provide an opportunity to show off our newest nylon shorts, try to beat our last race time and possibly make a new friend or two in the process. Oh yeah, and after a race there’s carte blanche when it comes to the days’ dining.
So what could possibly be better than a food-themed race? You’ve got the jogging, the brightly colored shorts, the athletic spirit, the big calorie burn and then something tasting waiting just beyond the finish line. Perfect!
Here are two to try:
• The Jewish Community Center’s Falafel 5K takes place Sunday, May 4, at 4 p.m. There’s also a 5K walk and a 1-mile fun run. Entry is $25 until Thursday, May 1 ($10 for the 1-mile run).
• The Asheville Pizza Company holds its second Night of the Ninja 5K on Saturday, May 24. Named for the brewery’s Ninja Porter, the 7 p.m. race raises funds for MANNA FoodBank. On Friday, May 23, there’s a pre-party at the Orange Peel (on another food-related note, bands Locomotive Pie and Blue Plate Special are on the bill) and those holding race registrations ($23 on line in advance, $25 mail-in) get in for $15. Regular tickets are $25.
Find more local races here.
— Alli Marshall, A&E reporter
