Leprechauns, racers, dogs, and good ol’ St. Paddy’s Day fans of all ages and abilities gathered — dressed in many shades of green of course — for Runnin’ of the Green. The race began in the heart of downtown Denver, Colorado, trailed through LoDo, into the Denver Highlands, and then finished back on Blake Street.
Some competitors parted ways early for the Leprechaun Leap, a shortened 2 mile stretch, while the majority of us made our way across the full 7k course throughout the gorgeous city. More than 7,000 people registered for this St. Patrick’s Day event, all there to benefit Volunteers of America.
The actual jog was only one part of the festivities, which also included seeing the looks on racers’ faces as they came upon the finish line, a youth pipe band, and Irish step dancers.
Upon completing the race, attendees flooded into the streets checking out vendor and sponsor booths, as well as a generous beer garden thanks to Killians Irish Red beer and Coors. Come on, we all know a St. Paddy’s Day celebration would not be complete — without not just one, but two — beverage tickets! And for the underagers, Propel Workout Water had something for them too!
Other sponsors included 5280 magazine, Cliff Bar, and 9 News to help the event, said to be Colorado’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration. If you missed it this year, I highly recommend making an appearance in 2015! You can however, still make a donation or sign up to volunteer at another one of Volunteers of America events (head over to voa.org now).
Photos from the race:
Over 7,000 people gathered behind the starting line.
Here is where it began at the intersection of 17th and Wazee.
The Runnin’ of the Green mascot, an Irish Leprechaun, came equipped with a pot of gold and a lucky rainbow to greet racers as they began.
The beer garden was popping — before the majority of racers crossed the finish line!
Gorgeous Irish step dancers getting their own workout in.
At just under 50 minutes, I made it!
Enthusiastic joggers as they made their way to the finish.
Kristen Reming, Jordan Kellerman and myself all stand for Volunteers of America.
Overall, it was a super fun race. Stay tuned for the next one….Diva Dash!
If this is your first time here, join me bi-weekly as I create new workouts inspired by an upcoming charitable race, then tell you all about how it went! Show me how much fun you are having at your own races, getting fit, or volunteering at your favorite charity with #FNLfit.
Shelby Elmore 