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Best Spring 2015 Races In OC

marathon runners 610 header
(credit: Shutterstock)

Spring has sprung, and it's time to take advantage of the longer days by being more active. Joining a running or cycling race is a great way to enjoy the SoCal sunshine and get some exercise. These spring races not only provide a way to stay fit, but they are also a fun way to contribute to some very worthy causes. So whether you're running on your own or with a team of friends or coworkers, it's time to dust off the running shoes, choose a race and get ready to run in the sun.

Run 4 Homeless Children
(credit: Run 4 Homeless Children)

Run 4 Homeless Children
16801 Euclid St.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 308-3830
www.run4homelesschildren.com
Date: March 28, 2015

The Run 4 Homeless Children is several races rolled into one, so there is an event for any fitness level, and it's all for a great cause. There are more competitive 5k and 10k runs, a child and adult 2k fun run, and a 2k walk-a-thon in which participants can dress up in their silliest costumes and goof it up to their heart's content. All events are chip-timed, there are prizes within each age group for the first five finishers, and all finishers receive a medal. The best part about this race, however, is that for the relatively small registration fee, runners will be supporting self-sufficiency for many of Orange County's homeless families and their children.

HB On The Strand
(credit: One Foot Free Racing)

HB On The Strand
22080 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
(657) 215-0657
www.onefootfree.com
Date: March 14, 2015

What better scenery to accompany a run than the majestic Pacific Ocean, pristine sandy beaches and perfect Southern California spring temperatures? This event has varying distances ranging from a quick 5k to a half marathon, and the participants can walk or run at their own pace with no pressure. All finishers get a medal, and there is no time limit. Perhaps the best aspect of the race is that part of the proceeds get donated to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center of Huntington Beach, which helps care for local coastal animals.

Runners marathon charity run walk
(credit: istockphoto)

Nocturnal Lands 5k
8808 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
(877) 692-0111
nocturnallands.com
Date: April 25, 2015

If Lollapalooza and the LA Marathon had a baby, it would be the Nocturnal Lands 5k in Irvine. This nighttime music-centered run is full of bright lights, lasers and plenty of electric dance beats. Runners follow a lighted path that takes them to various DJ stages, each of which is home to its own little mini-party. When the race is over, participants gather for a single massive musical after-party at the main stage. The entry fee gets racers a t-shirt, glow necklace, free swag and entry to the after party. This exciting, heart-pumping event is also kid-friendly, and offers free admission to children eight years old and under.

Related: Best Hiking Trails In Orange County

Tour De OC Cycling race bike
(credit: Tony DeSantis)

Tour De OC
55 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 743-5966
www.tourdeoc.org
Date: April 18, 2015

The Tour de OC is a cycling event created to raise funds for neglected and abused children. Participants can choose to ride 25, 55 or 100 miles, and in addition to the registration fee, riders are asked to raise pledges to support year-round mentor programs, club memberships and summer camp opportunities at the Royal Family Kids Camp. This camp provides important and lasting positive experiences in the lives of children who desperately need them. Joining the Tour de OC is a great way to help the heart in more ways than one.

Into The Wild OC Trail Run
(credit: Paksit Photos)

Into The Wild OC Trail Run
1 Irvine Park Road
Orange, CA 92869
(714) 858-9144
www.intothewildoctrailrun.com
Date: March 21, 2015

The Into the Wild OC Trail Run offers one of the most scenic runs in Orange County. Participants can run either 10k or 21k of the large network of trails that connect Irvine Regional Park and Santiago Oaks Regional Park. The 10k run within Irvine Regional takes runners into dense oak and sycamore groves, which provide a nice shady canopy. The more strenuous 21k takes racers into the steep, single-lane trails of Santiago Oaks. For those up for the challenge, a spectacular view of Orange County awaits at the peak. Part of the proceeds of the race are donated to the Irvine Ranch Conservancy and to OC Parks to help care for the local ecosystem.

Related: Extreme Sports In Orange County

David McDonald is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
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