The Russell Forest Run is coming up! This year is the 14th Annual 10K and 5K fun run through the beautiful Russell Forest at Lake Martin, AL. Not only is the route incredibly scenic for participants, but rewarding too! The Russell Forest Run helps raise funds for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation (ACSEF), raising more than $110,000 to date.
If you are thinking about joining the race, here is your guide to the Russell Forest Run and my tips leading up to Race Day!
2023 Russell Forest Run Details
The Russell Forest Run will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2023, and is an out-and-back “chip timed” run. Both races will kick off near the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with a machine gun blast. The 10K starts at 7:45 am and the 5K at 7:55 am.
Runners will be taken on a journey through the beautiful scenic trails of Russell Forest. This USATF-certified course stretches up to Heaven Hill and back down to The Stables. After crossing the finish line, runners can enjoy the post-race party with live music and the world-famous grits bar!
Virtual participants will also be welcomed again this year! This is great for those runners who can’t make it in person but still want to join in the fun. You can read more about becoming a virtual participant here.
All ready to go?
In the days leading up to the event, here are a few tips to get Race Day ready!
1. Become Familiar With The Course
My first tip after signing up for a run is to become familiar with the course. You will want to know what type of terrain you will be racing on, such as pavement versus trails or flat surfaces versus inclines. These details will help you know what to train for as well as what gear to wear on race day, including the correct shoes for your course.
For this particular race, the course will stretch over a variety of terrain, such as sand, clay, and gravel roads.
For the Russell Forest Run, you can see the course here: Russell Forest Run Course Map
2. Have a Race Day Plan
Be prepared for race day with an action plan. Know where to park, what time to arrive, and where to pick up your race day bib number and packet.
For the Russell Forest Run, packet pick up will be Friday, February 24th from 4-6 pm and Saturday, February 25th from 6-7 am at Russell Crossroads.
For race day parking, there should be plenty of parking spots near the Town Green. My tip for a stress-free race morning is to arrive a little bit earlier than needed, just to make sure you don’t run into any unexpected traffic delays or packet pickup lines.
3. Find a Running Partner
Running is more fun when you have a friend! Ask someone you know to join you for this race, even if they aren’t a “runner.” You can train together in the days leading up to the race and create a fun memory together. Plus, you both will be supporting a great cause!
4. Have Fun!
Remember to have fun on Race Day! Enjoy the atmosphere, take in the scenic views, and feel good about supporting the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation.
So what are you waiting for? Lace up your running shoes and register for the Russell Forest Run here: Russell Forest Run Registration
