September 2014 Preview

Either you're a fan of summer and relish the heat and beach vacations that come along with it, or you're like me and don't get along with sand. Personally, I can't wait for the change of season and the arrival of football, monthly holiday gatherings, and runs that don't finish with me looking like I just went for a swim. While there's still several weeks left of heat and humidity, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The month of September has a full list of running events for you to take advantage of the few remaining early sunrises, as well as the last triathlons of the season. Click on the name of each race below to get more info and registration options.

Saints Kickoff Run 5K (Saturday, September 6th @ 7:30 a.m.) - A limited number of entries are available for the only race that let's you finish at the 50 yard line of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Wear your black and gold, or wear a costume to participate in a contest to win game tickets!

Tour De Lis Bike Ride & 5K (Saturday, September 6th @  8:00 a.m.) - Bike or run to support the Treatment After Cancer And Late Effects Center at Children's Hospital. All registrants will receive a tee shirt and admission to the post race party featuring free food, beer, drinks and live music.

Elmwood Fitness Twilight Run 5K & 1 Mile (Friday, September 12th @ 6:30 p.m.) - A flat and fast course through Harahan with post-race party featuring food from area restaurants.

NOLA Blue Doo Run 2 Miler (Saturday, September 20th @ 6:00 p.m.) - Runners and walkers are invited to participate in a quick race on Tulane's Uptown campus. Proceeds benefit the Prostate Cancer Research Fund at Tulane University. Wear blue (costumes are encouraged) to show your support for the battle against prostate cancer.

Man Up Triathlon (Saturday, September 27th @ 7:30 a.m.) - It's all about the guys for this inaugural sprint tri at the UNO Lakefront Arena. Participants of all skill levels are invited to conquer a 300M swim, 10 mile bike, and 2 mile run.

Alligator Stomp 5K & Half Mile (Saturday, September 27th @ 9:00 a.m.) - Entry to the race includes free early entry into the Alligator Festival in Luling, LA. This race is an official event for the Louisiana Sr. Olympic Games.

Tipitina's Foundation Rhythm & Blues Run 5K (Saturday, September 27th @ 5:00 p.m.) - Great goody bags for all participants, along with medals for the first 500 finishers are awesome perks for this favorite NOLA race. Costumes are encouraged, and prizes for "Best Individual Musical Costume" and "Best Musical Group Ensemble" will be announced at the post-race party.

Girl Power Triathlon (Sunday, September 28th @ 7:30 a.m.) - The ladies get their turn on Sunday at the UNO Lakefront Arena with female participants of all skill levels covering the 300M swim, 10 mile bike, and 2 mile run distances.