Thank you for all your wonderful contributions to the 2022 ‘Run of the Year’! Below is a slideshow put together by our senior editor, Kelsey Perrett. Click on the arrows to advance forward or backward. On mobile, they can be viewed in portrait or landscape mode.
Tornado in the area 15 minutes before race start. 30+ mph straight winds the entire 13.1 miles. When you passed gaps between beachfront buildings the wind blew you backwards! Had to hang on to hat and bib the whole way! — Lisa H.
My first post-pandemic road race! A fun, local race with a scenic course for a good charity on a beautiful fall morning in New England. And I made my goal time. — Andy E.
It was my first time running in the alps and it was as exhilarating as I had imagined. Being with such a great group was even better. This was part of a running vacation hosted by a group called ‘Run The Alps’ with special guest trail legend Mimi Kotka. — Pam S.
My 1st 100 miler, run overnight. — Thulani G.
At the age of 53, the Big Sur Marathon was my first marathon. Running a marathon was a bucket list item for me and the emotion I had throughout this race, particularly at the finish, was extraordinary — as were the views! — Amy M.
I did my PR at the Buenos Aires half marathon, 1h 42m 03s (21,37km).
— Sylvio A.
I’ve done the “Incline” many times, and it's truly one of my favorite running trails on the planet. This time was especially special. On 9/11, about half way up, I linked up with some local firefighters hiking the Incline in full gear paying tribute to all of the First Responders who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks. Being a 24 year Army Veteran myself made this day and tribute one of the most memorable runs of my life.
— Tiaqunia H.
First 10K event I have ever done. Beautiful, sunny, clear along the lakefront. — John F.
This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to hop off our cruise ship and run along the Ring Road in Northwestern Iceland, about 90 km from the Arctic Circle. The view speaks for itself! — Norm D.
After celebrating five decades of marathoning with another Boston qualifying race in January, 2022, I was challenged with a life changing setback when I was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma. Two months later I had a radical nephrectomy surgery and the first “zero” month of my running career. I cautiously rebounded and recovered from my surgery with a crisp zest for the ordinary and a renewed gratitude for my health and wellness. Fast forward seven months — I was back in the hunt and training for two fall trail races. While exploring Portugal in September, I ran and rock hopped a section of the gnarly 192K Rota Vicentina Coastal (Fisherman’s Trail) in Sagres along the southwestern most point in Europe. I’ve never taken my fitness for granted but after having my left kidney removed at age 65, I now find myself savoring every step along the way! Run Wild, Run Free! — Samuel C.
Running my third Boston. Found out after that I ran it with COVID. Not the time that I wanted, but I completed it. Just being in the Boston Marathon is amazing. The crowds, the energy. So amazing! Hope to get back again someday. — Pellayia R.
The Great North Run 2022: best ever half marathon experience I have ever had...the other runners, spectators, volunteers and route to the seaside made it truly wonderful. — Roberta M.
We are the Brewery Running Series and we run for beer! Join us for fun run events across America's best breweries, cideries, wineries, taprooms and tasting rooms. All ages, all levels are welcome. No time clock, no pressure. Just a really good reason to drink really good beer!
Be active. Have fun. Give back! A portion of all proceeds support local nonprofits.
Check out upcoming events: breweryrunningseries.com
It was one of the iconic "Great Runs" courses: We ran the downtown loop of Philadelphia. We had never been in that city before and this 10k loop was the perfect way to explore the wonders of this city. The run goes through the 72 stone steps leading up to the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of art and following this route, I really had the feeling I was Rocky Balboa. This city is beautiful and very interesting and this run allowed us to enjoy the perfect overview of Philly's cultural and historic highlights. Downtown runs are now our favorite way to explore ALL the cities we are visiting. — Aurelie V.
Perfect blend of scenic outlooks, flowing mountain bike trails, and some good climbs above and around the young town of Las Catalinas in Tempate, Costa Rica. — Ryan S.
It was a great 50 mile race for a wonderful charity, and while I fell apart, it was still one of the best days that I had this last year. —Edward A.
It was my 41st birthday and I completed my first half marathon. Honestly didn’t believe I could accomplish it! I did and I’ve never been so proud of an accomplishment! Can’t wait to do it again! —Sarah
The rain finally cleared for an early morning run overlooking Jerusalem’s sacred cites. — Yali S.
Great day to be outside, perfect conditions. — Susanna F.
I usually do private running tours for tourists. One day I had three different guests that wanted to run on the same day at the same time. They were coming from Alaska, Texas and New Zealand.
I managed to make a group tour and we had a great time! Running brings people together! — Lapo B.
Early morning 16 miler in the nation’s capital with a glorious sunrise for motivation. — Nana F.
It was love at first site. As soon as the plane landed in Victoria, BC, my heart was racing with excitement! I planned to run right from the airport parking lot into Victoria! My husband joined me the first couple of miles to guide me where to go, then we happily parted and I continued along the epic pathway system provided by Great Runs for a total of 27km of pure bliss and contentment! Victoria is made for outdoor enthusiasts — there is an abundance of outstanding trails with gorgeous ocean views and if you like hills, you will never be bored - there are plenty of undulating paths to make your heart soar with happiness. — Joylin N.
Amazing trail into the heart of Zion National Park as the worthy finale of a fantastic 8 day running trip through Colorado and Utah in June 2022, with 5 fellow Danes / fantastic trail friends. —Troels W.
In memory of a young man who died of addiction. — Mike T.
In 2022, I was accepted into the Brooks Run Happy team as an ambassador and we were able to go out to Salt Lake City in Utah for camp. It was my first time being in Utah and being able to meet so many of my teammates. What made it special was being around so many people that love running and share a common interest. I don't get out much where I'm at or get to interact with people as much since I work from home so this was just a wonderful experience. — Kristin S.
I live in England and it was my first visit to Boston. My highlight for 2002 was running a marathon around Boston USA, accompanied by Mark Lowenstein on his bike. It marked my 50th Marathon in 50 weeks on my way to completing my 52/52 challenge. It wasn't my easiest run as I struggled with jetlag and it was hot towards the end, but it was truly memorable to me and just goes to show how running brings people from all around the world together. — Justin M.
Epic hill run, 7 miles straight up Doi Suthep mountain in beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand! Gorgeous temples, waterfalls, and lush greenery, plus tuk tuk's whizzing by with tourists giving me inquisitive looks! At the top, you arrive at northern Thailand's most sacred temple, Doi Suthep. What a treat! Running back down was like flying! — Joylin M.
First time I ever traveled on my own, all the way from Sweden to run the most amazing race I've ever experienced: Big Sur Marathon. A memory for life! —Annelie
My longest run (12.27km) as I recovered from a year long illness. My favourite place to run; always barefoot, regardless of the time of year. Right on the edge of the world. — Bernard M.
I was always so scared of trail running.. I finally conquered my fears and it was on a ski resort so the hills were no joke. I was so thankful to finally love trails. — Jen O.
As I made my way down the river, the Portuguese sea was by my side. I felt the cool breeze hit my face while the hot summer sun created a pink hue on my cheeks (perhaps a sunburn). The water was calm and the pavement was so smooth that it felt like I was flying rather than running. I stopped and took pictures of embellished landmarks on the coastline, including Belem tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Monument to the overseas Combatants. The neverending smile on my face continued as I ran down the coastline and back to my hostel in the heart of Lisbon. I highly recommend this route to any runner needing a refreshing run that will leave them with a smile as well. — Paxton A.
Showing off the best neighborhoods, trails and breweries across the USA. Join the Brewery Running Series for fun run courses and great local beer.
Learn more and sign up: breweryrunningseries.com
Running is all about freedom. That's what made this run along Gold Beach (Normandy, France) so special. — Wouter R.
Amazing views! — Rahamim B.
Running in a thunderstorm with lightning and cracking thunder when this beautiful rainbow appeared. —Jade
Due to Covid, the 2020 Antarctica Marathon was postponed to January 2022. I’m posing in the surreal and memorable Antarctic landscape by the 21-Mile mile marker that I had sponsored. — Bill C.
Running on trails and the beautiful scenery across the lake makes this the best Parkrun course I’ve encountered. Couple of uphill sections make it a good challenge. —Damien S.
I spent 8 months preparing for my first IRONMAN race in Juneau, Alaska. I'm from Tampa, Florida so the cards were stacked against me from the start, but I was so excited to be able to race in Alaska. It was a bucket list location and a bucket list race. When race day arrived it was announced the swim was the coldest temperature they had recorded at only 56°F. It was the coldest and longest swim I'd ever done in those conditions, but I did complete it. Unfortunately it was so cold I was pulled into the medical tent for recovery. After I warmed up I got ready for the bike leg, but I already knew I lost too much time in medical. I made it 83 miles on the bike before I was pulled off the course. It was heartbreaking, I only had 20 more miles to ride before the marathon run. It wasn't meant to be for me that day, but there was no way I was going to miss running in Juneau. I got up early the next day to complete my last run in that dreamy location. Juneau will always hold a special place in my heart. — Geena S.
I love runnning on local trails in the winter. It's a crisp -4C, the sun is shining and I feel revitalized. Life is good! — Lydia B.
Seth and I did the Ragnar for the first time. We had months of training with the MNBRS and were able to run a collective amount of over 33 miles in less than 48 hours! — Melissa
We ran through midnight from 2022 into 2023. We started this during the pandemic, and it's become a tradition. Photo taken on a ridge where we could watch New Year's fireworks. — Scott H.
Amazing diversity: Ran by countless waterfalls, through a glacier and a recent lava field, experienced gorgeous mountain views. The best of Iceland in 28 km. — Birkir
It all came together on the day! — Ross M.
A 68 Tennessean visits Alaska for the first time. I saw the sun coming up behind the mountains and casting its colorful reflection on the lake. — Joe R.
My absolute favourite place to run. I ran there during a family vacation in July/August 2023. — Paul T.
Running along the waterfront early in the morning when the vendors were setting up their wares before it got too crowded with the throngs of tourists. — Evan G.
This was my longest run ever. Run Woodstock 100 mile race and I completed it in 26:26:47. They give you 30 hours to complete. — Doug W.
December 31. I was visiting my brother for the holidays, and he suggested the Ross Glen Coulee Trail for a run. The sun was peeping up over the ridge as a train rolled through the valley, and then some pronghorn crossed the trail in front of me. It was a magical run on a beautiful winter day, a perfect way to celebrate 2022 and welcome 2023. —Kathryn A.
The Dramathon is a Marathon run along the Speyside Way from the Glenfarclas Distillery to the Glenfiddich Distillery: The perfect combo for lovers of whisky and running! — Neil S.
Stay active. Earn rewards! Join the 2023 VirtuALL Distance Challenge
Get accountability and support as you run, walk, jog, hike, bike, ski, skate, swim - whatever goes! Log your activity in our VirtuALL Distance Tracker app and see your miles add up.
Complete any of the 300+ Distance Destinations to earn a commemorative wooden magnet* to represent your miles traveled and build your US / World Map.
Learn more: eventbrite.com
It was an amazing race with beautiful views of the tetons and super fun to run. I love that I look like I’m having fun with that gorgeous background. —Andy M.
First time running the Golden Gate Bridge! — Juanita D.
The run went through the city center, we went through several buildings that were open for the occasion. And I did it together with the best company. — Eric H.
Because of the heat of the Bodrum summer, I needed to get up early to run, resulting in me being able to run with the spectacular sunrise! — Brian M.
Ran a 10k on the deck of the Roald Amundsen as it transited near Petermann Island, Antarctica. With the ship’s movement, my watch registered it as a 1/2 marathon. Forever my best run! — Patricia K.
My daughter and I conquered the Rock N’Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon together! A run we’ll remember forever. — Douglas M.
It was my 7th continent marathon. — Rohini M.
It was the last day of 2022, and I had the chance to break my personal record of a 15km run, and I got to see the breathtaking Blue Grotto. —Zsolt K.
Great run along a less traveled tourist route in London, including going over and back through the Greenwich Foot Tunnel, opened in 1902. This allowed for a spectaculare view of the city of London from Greenwich. — Brian M.
This is in Saint-Jérôme, Quebec, Canada. It was my first marathon in many years and the autumn colours were at their peak. — Jo-Anne B.
This is a 10K trail race called the Dirty Sock Run. My gall bladder had tried to kill me six weeks before and I’d missed a lot of races as I recovered from surgery, so this was my big comeback. The day was beautiful, the trails were well groomed, and everything felt right. Love Great Runs! — Karen B.
I’m new to running. I had gastric bypass on June 1, 2021. I wasn’t able to walk a mile, nevermind run, so I worked my way up from short walks to long walks in short running/walking intervals. This past year I did 11 runs. My most memorable was the Lady of the Lake Ultra at Vogel State Park in North Georgia. I went into it with the intention of doing 5 miles, which would have been my longest distance at that time. Instead I got my half marathon. I just kept going walking and running until my 4 hours were up. — Ginger B.
I ran the Missoula Half Marathon last summer after waiting two years to run it. I had heard such beautiful things about this race from friends and on various podcasts. What made it memorable for me was that for a minute I was discouraged about not hitting my PR or placing well. Then I realized that after the last two years of injuries and races being cancelled how incredibly lucky I felt to complete this race. The route was gorgeous as we ran on one of the roads that went through the woods and then into the neighborhoods of Missoula. This race holds a special place in my heart because I finally got to mark this one off my bucket list and the wait was worth it. — Steven H.
Boston marathon and 5K with my sons were memorable runs for our family! The atmosphere were full of energy, supportive, full of joy, warmth, and fun. These moments stay in the memory for the whole life! — Jelena
Hello Great Runs Users! A few quick notes: