Top 5 Reasons I LOVE to Run for Chocolate

I received entry into the AllState Hot Chocolate Charlotte15K as a part of being a BibRave Pro. Check out BibRave.com to read and write race reviews. 

So it is the beginning of the year and lots of runners are working on filling their race calendars (mine is already filling up, yikes) so I wanted to tell you all a little a bit about one of my favorite races, the Hot Chocolate Charlotte 15/5K.

Why do I love it so? Here are the top 5 reasons.

5. It's a Great Race for All Levels.

Everything is better with friends!
This was the amazing group from last year!

The Hot Chocolate races offer 2 distances, a 5K and a 15K which make it a great race for pretty much any level from beginners to more seasoned racers. And because the theme of the race is Hot Chocolate, something that everyone can get behind, it seems just less intimidating that a more traditional race. In fact a group of ladies from my gym who are more gym rat that runners all sign up for it each year because it is so much fun! In fact, 2 of my friends asked me about registration just today!  You can join us by registering here: and prices will be increasing next week, so be sure to get registered really soon: https://www.hotchocolate15k.com/charlotte/ (just be sure to read this list all the way through for a coupon code for some extra SWAG if you decide to sign up!) 

4. Free Race Photos! 
FREE PHOTOS! Heck yeah! Free photos is almost unheard of for National Race events these days, but Hot Chocolate races will hook you up! Shortly after the event, you will be emailed a link where you can find and download High Resolution photography taken throughout the event, both on course and at the Start/Finish. So be sure that you bib is front and center, displayed proudly so you can get your FREE photos after the race. 

3. The SWAG is Amazing!

Hot Chocolate races have some of the nicest SWAG out there. Seriously, their participant jackets are worth the registration cost alone! This year, the jackets are a full zip tech in either Merlot or Black. They are pretty true to size, but you are also given the opportunity to try on and swap out if necessary, which is really nice. Last year's jacket is my absolute favorite hoodie! It is so soft and so comfy. I cannot wait until I get this years! Additionally, you can typically score some extra swag when you register with a BibRave coupon code. This year, with coupon code BRHCCharlotte20 you receive a free Hot Chocolate branded Running Hat. And this year, both the 15K and the 5K runners will get awesome medals! 

2. 9.3 Miles is a Perfect Distance.
I've run a lot of races over the years, and I've found that a 15K is probably my favorite distance to race. It is challenge, but not too much so. Right around 10 miles is where I start thinking to myself - Why am I still running? Well, a 15K ends right before that, so I feel super strong the entire distance. I wish there were more 15Ks out there. 

1. THE CHOCOLATE OF COURSE! 
You knew this was going to be the #1 reason, but it is so true. Once you finish the race, they hand you a big bowl full of absolute yumminess! In the center, a steaming cup of Hot Chocolate. Surrounding that, are several compartments packed with goodies including Chocolate Fondue, Banana, Marshmallows, Rice Krispie Treat, Pretzels, and Cookies. It's so freaking good! But, some people may not realize this, but the Finish Line Chocolate is not the only Chocolate to be had. There are yummy Chocolate stations throughout the race giving out M&Ms, Marshmallows and other yummy goodies to keep you going while on the course. It's a Chocolate Adventure from start to finish! 

Is it any wonder I'm excited?! And even better, since this will be my 3rd year running the Hot Chocolate Charlotte, I will earn Legacy status which means EVEN MORE AWESOME SWAG! Run 3, 5, or 10 consecutive years at a Hot Chocolate Race location and you earn Bronze, Silver or Gold status respectively. This year will be my Bronze year for Charlotte, and I am not sure of what the extra awesomeness will be this year, as they are changing out the Legacy item this year, but I am excited to find out. For more information, click this link: https://www.hotchocolate15k.com/legacy

And if all this sounds good to you, but you're not local, no worries! There are Hot Chocolate races all over the country! Check out the website to find your local race. But let me know in the comments if you will be at Charlotte, because it is going to be a party!