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. 

This coming Saturday I will be running one of my favorite fun races of the year, The Hot Chocolate 15K in Charlotte, NC. Why do I love it so? Here are the top 5 reasons.

1. It’s a Great Race for All Levels.

Everything is better with friends! 

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. This year is particularly exciting one for me in that I organized a group from my gym to run the race this year, many of which will be running their first race ever. I helped them by making up 3 training plans**, a 5K plan for beginners (with run/walk intervals), a 5K plan a bit more advanced (all running) and a 15K plan. I cannot wait to see the excitement as these awesome ladies cross the finish line! There is so much excitement from my group that just this morning, we were talking about it and another lady asked us if it were too late to sign up. NOPE! Registration is still open here – 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!) 

2. 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. In 2018, I ran two different Hot Chocolate races just to get one of each color they were so awesome. Additionally, you can typically score some extra swag when you register with a BibRave coupon code. This year, with coupon code BRHCCharlotte you receive a free Hot Chocolate Phone Arm Band. 15K participants also get a super sweet medal that is specific to your city. This year’s Charlotte medal has the Charlotte Skyline across the bottom. 

4. 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. 

5. THE CHOCOLATE OF COURSE! 

Just look at this deliciousness from last year!

You knew this was going to be the top 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 for this weekend?! I will be at the packet pick up at the Charlotte Convention Center right when it opens at 10:00 am on Friday and will be wearing an Orange BibRave shirt, so, if you see me, be sure to say HI! I’ll also be racing in BibRave Orange on race day, so feel free to flag me down there too if you see me! 

**If you are interested in checking out the custom training plans I made, let me know in the comments and I am happy to pass along to anyone.