Take On the Exhilarating Challenge of the Annual Tiger 10 Miler Race

The Exhilarating Tiger 10 Miler Race

The Tiger 10 Miler is an annual 10 mile road race held in Auburn, Alabama that attracts thousands of runners each year. Known for its challenging course that winds through the rolling hills of Auburn, it has become a bucket list race for many runners looking to push their limits.

History of the Tiger 10 Miler

The Tiger 10 Miler was established in 1982 by the Auburn University Running Club as a way to promote running and physical fitness in the community. Auburn University's athletic mascot is the Tiger, hence the name of the race.

The first Tiger 10 Miler in 1982 had just over 1,000 participants. Since then, the race has grown substantially each year, with over 7,500 runners registering in 2022. It has become one of the largest 10 mile races in the Southeast.

The Race Course

The course starts and finishes on Donahue Drive near Auburn University's campus. It winds through Auburn along some of the town's most scenic tree-lined streets and neighborhoods before heading out on rural roads into the surrounding countryside.

One defining feature of the course is its rolling hills. Auburn's hilly terrain makes for a challenging route with over 600 feet of elevation gain. There are a few particularly tough climbs between miles 3-6 as runners make their way into rural areas outside of town.

Around mile 7, the course flattens out again as runners make their way back to campus for the finish. The final miles take runners straight down College Street through the heart of Auburn's campus before finishing on the 50 yard line at Jordan-Hare Stadium, home of Auburn Football.

Race Weekend Experience

The Tiger 10 Miler has become a popular race weekend destination, with participants traveling from all across the Southeast and beyond. The race organizers provide a professionally run event with top notch logistics.

The health and fitness expo held on the two days prior to the race is a big draw. Runners can pick up their race packets here and browse merchandise from over 50 vendors. There are also interactive demos and seminars on running and training.

On race morning, runners are pumped up by a high energy atmosphere. The streets are lined with enthusiastic spectators cheering runners on, including the infamous student section right before the stadium finish.

The race starts at 7am, but the logistics are handled smoothly to get all 7,500+ runners lined up in their correct corrals. The weather in early April is ideal for running, with temperatures in the 50s at race start.

Memorable Race Moments

The Tiger 10 Miler has created many memorable highlights and unique race moments over the years.

In 1989, U.S. Olympic marathoner Rod Dixon set a new course record of 47:30 that stood for over two decades. Other famous elite runners like Bill Rodgers have also competed and set records at the race.

The 20th anniversary of the race in 2002 stands out as a highlight. A massive celebration was held that year with over 10,000 registrants. The race organizers did an excellent job accommodating the extra demand while preserving the race's charm.

Cardiac Hill at mile 8 has become an iconic spot along the course. This famously steep climb has crushed many runners' spirits over the years. But determined runners are buoyed by the enthusiastic crowds lining the hill, pushing them to press on to the finish.

Preparing for the Tiger 10 Miler

To perform your best at the Tiger 10 Miler, proper training and preparation is key. Here are some tips on getting ready for this challenging race:

• Train on hills. Work hill repeats and hill tempos into your routine to build strength and endurance.
• Simulate race day nutrition. Practice fueling on your long runs to determine what your body can handle.
• Build up long run distance. Work up to doing a 10+ mile training run so you know you can go the full distance on race day.
• Include race pace work. Getcomfortable running near your goal 10 mile pace by incorporating pace work into your training plan.
• Plan travel and lodging. Book accommodations well in advance since hotels fill fast for the race weekend.

Proper training and strategizing for the course will help ensure you have a successful and enjoyable race experience.

Why Run the Tiger 10 Miler?

From the charming small town race atmosphere to the challenging yet scenic course, there are so many great reasons to take on the Tiger 10 Miler.

If you're looking for a well-organized race getaway weekend, the Tiger 10 Miler delivers. Auburn provides excellent hospitality and entertainment for runners and spectators alike.

The race course allows you to test your conditioning and willpower. Cardiac Hill and the other rolling climbs require strength, while the fast final miles encourage you to kick hard to the finish.

Finally, the festive finish in Jordan-Hare Stadium is an experience like no other. Crossing the finish line on Auburn football's hallowed home turf will send chills down your spine.

Whether you're an Auburn alumni, a fan of destination races, or just love a good challenge, put the Tiger 10 Miler on your bucket list. Sign up to push your limits on this scenic and exhilarating course.

FAQs

What is the Tiger 10 Miler race?

The Tiger 10 Miler is an annual 10 mile road race held in Auburn, Alabama. It was established in 1982 and has become one of the largest 10 mile races in the Southeast, with over 7,500 participants.

When is the Tiger 10 Miler held?

The Tiger 10 Miler takes place every year in early April, usually the first or second weekend. The 2024 race will be held on Saturday, April 6.

What is the course like?

The course winds through the rolling hills of Auburn along scenic tree-lined streets and rural roads. There are several challenging climbs throughout the first 7 miles before runners make their way back to Auburn University's campus for the final 3 miles.

How can I register for the race?

Registration opens in November each year. You can register online at the race website www.auclubrunning.com. Registration is first come, first served and the event usually sells out by February.

Where does the race start and finish?

The race starts and finishes on Donahue Drive near Auburn University's campus. The course finishes on the 50 yard line inside Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium.