Run the Cod Challenge

Monomoy Legs Tired (“Man-are-my”) was our first Ragnar Relay Cape Cod team name circa 2013. Notice a familiar shape on the pirate’s mustache?

Have you ever wanted to visit a Cape Cod town you’ve never been to, but was not sure what to do when you arrived? Well, if you are a runner, plan your next visit around the town’s road race. With “Run 169 Town Society (CT)” roots in mind, this running challenge is similar: run (or walk) a timed road or trail race in all 15 Cape Cod towns, the 2 islands and 1 off-Cape town (can’t forget our friends on the other side of the canal). Only then, have you “Run the Cod!”

At last count, there are over 70 races on Cape Cod, the Islands as well as plenty off-Cape, particularly in Plymouth. Races are spread through the busy summer tourist season as well as shoulder seasons as part of a local celebration or annual event (Wellfleet Oysterfest hosts a 5K, New Year’s Day celebrations hosts “First Day 5ks,” some pubs host their own timed fun run, etc.), and can be a big economic driver for the host town. Oh, and the Ragnar Relay Cape Cod is another great option to see the Cape from your own two (err, three) legs!

So, if you are up for traveling to – or around – Cape Cod, exploring every town, clipping on a running bib, and bringing some friends along, then join us in accepting the Run the Cod Challenge. As Barney Stinson would also say, “It’s gonna be legendary!”

My Running the Cod

May 19, 2019 – Osterville (Barnstable): 10th Piggy Trot

The “Before” at the 10th (and final) Piggy Trot in Osterville…Photo credit: Awesome Volunteer!
The “After” from the 10th Piggy Trot in Osterville. I actually was not surprised; crushed it! Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

November 18, 2018 – Chatham in the Fall 10K

This scenic route through historic and coastal Chatham streets is used in the Spring and Fall races. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

October 14, 2018 – Wellfleet: Shuck ‘N Run 5K

I assume the t-shirt design pays homage to Porchfest, though that is a summer event, rather than this Oyster-focused fall event. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

September 23, 2018 – Truro Treasures 5K

The most laid-back road race ever. I also finished in 2nd Place (overall) and received no honors. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

September 22, 2018 – Sandwich: Y-Not Trail Race 5K

Perhaps my favorite award, this wooden beverage coaster (?!) now located on my desk reminds me of my surprise age group victory. The rough bark that lined the edge has fallen off over time. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw
If you look closely at the wooden award, you can see the rough tree bark edge. It has since fallen off with time. Photo credit: Awesome Volunteer.

September 22, 2018 – Eastham: Hearty Hearts, Healthy Lands 5K

The route of this fast-paced 5K takes you through unknown fire roads that connect the protected National Seashore forests. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

October 27, 2014 – Falmouth: Cape Cod Marathon (26.2 Miles)

My most vivid memory of my first marathon was the last two miles, where a fierce head wind along Surf Drive separated me from that tasty Chicken Farm grinder. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

Still to Cover: Bourne, Dennis, Harwich, Martha’s Vineyard, Mashpee, Nantucket, Orleans, Provincetown, Wareham, Yarmouth and Off-Cape

I’ve also dabbled in the Ragnar Relay Cape Cod.

2017 Ragnar Relay Cape Cod – Team Name: Ready. nauSet. Go.

3rd Place Winners -Mixed Submasters Division! Photo credit: Awesome Volunteer!

2016 Ragnar Cape Cod – Team Name: Shut Yar-Mouth Kid!

Absolutely beautiful weather all race weekend. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

2015 Ragnar Cape Cod – Team Name: Where’s My Sandwich?

Other than at major exchanges, our team never quite connected with the other Van until the after party back in Chatham. Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.

2014 Ragnar Cape Cod – Team Name: Monomoy [man-are-my] Legs Tired, Again

Lots of logistical nightmares for this race, but we made it! Photo credit: Awesome stranger.

2013 Ragnar Cape Cod – Team Name: Monomoy [Man-are-my] Legs Tired

The first one is usually the best. Heck yeah! Photo credit: Awesome Stranger.

Other Fun Running Challenges

Fastest Known Time – www.fastestknowntime.com

Coming Soon! Another Cape Cod Challenge

CityStrides – https://citystrides.com

Run every street in your town!