It’s time to hit the ground running with several fitness events in December for walkers, runners, and triathletes. There’s still time to register for these races, but sideline cheerleaders need no advance preparation. Serious runners, bikers, and swimmers might even motivate you … for the next time. Here’s a lineup of area races.
DEC. 3-4
HITS Championships
At Lake Cahuilla in La Quinta, full and half triathlons and other competitions cover all types of fitness categories. The half marathon is a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, and 13.1-mile run; while the full event doubles the distances.
Both will be held Dec. 3.
On Dec. 4, three shorter competitions are on tap: Open, Sprint, and Olympic. Spectators pay $8 county park fee for entry, but the bike and run are contested outside of park grounds.
If your interest is piqued, a Triathlon Camp is set for Jan. 30-Feb. 3 at the same location. Lake Cahuilla, 58075 Jefferson Street, La Quinta. www.hitstriathlonseries.com
DEC. 4
Biggest Loser Half Marathon,
5K, and Motivational Mile
At Palm Desert’s Civic Center Park, two heats for both the half marathon and 5K will be split to encourage competitors of all fitness levels. A more competitive race will be held along with a two-division 5K. Start in waves at 7:30 a.m. Fees range from $45 to $105 depending on event and division. There is also a mile run with a $20 entry starting at 10:30 a.m.
Palm Desert Civic Center Park,
43900 San Pablo Avenue, Palm Desert. www.biggestloserraceseries.com
DEC. 10
Eisenhower Reindeer Run
5K run/walk on a safe, closed course surrounding the Eisenhower Medical Center campus in Rancho Mirage. Medals are awarded to the top three in each division. T-shirt, continental breakfast, food trucks, costume contest; pets welcome. Fee is $35, 8 a.m. start with proceeds to Eisenhower Annual Fund.
39000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage. www.emc.org/reindeerrun
DEC. 17
Santa Paws 5K
A fast and flat certified 5K course that starts and finishes on Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs benefits Guide Dogs of the Desert. Each participant receives a five-piece Santa suit (hat and beard included) that can be worn during the event and beyond, if you dare. Strollers and dogs welcome. Kids 200-meter Elf Dash for 10 and younger, $5. The 5K fee is $35. 9 a.m. start.
American Legion, 400 N. Belardo Road, Palm Springs. www.runpalmsprings.com
JAN. 14
Red Carpet Run 5K/10K
The Palm Springs International Film Festival Red Carpet Run offers both a 5K and 10K run/walk beginning and ending on the red carpet near downtown Palm Springs. Wear your old prom dress, wedding gown, old tux, or just your bow tie and running gear. Fees are $35-$45.
8 a.m. start. www.runpalmsprings.com