An Active Outer Banks

If you are looking for adventure, athletics or a new hobby, the Outer Banks may be the perfect fit for your next vacation. With many sporting events and activities in the area, year-round, there is no excuse to stay indoors and watch TV.

The 2009 Outer Banks Marathon
The Outer Banks Marathon brings over 4,000 runners annually to our beautiful beaches to run a course that is truly one of a kind. Running over bridges overlooking the sounds and breathing the fresh Outer Banks air makes you forget the pain and focus on the simple beauty of this area. Runners are encouraged throughout the course by mile marker sponsors that offer hydration and support for athletes partaking. You finish your enduring run in the heart of Manteo, NC., where your family and friends are waiting to congratulate you with open arms. The party doesn’t stop there, in fact, it has just begun. The Outer Banks Marathon committee has arranged for live music, food, beverages, photo ops, and an award ceremony that you won’t want to miss. The 2009 Outer Banks Marathon will be held on Sunday, November 8th, 2009. You can view more information or register to run at http://www.obxmarathon.org/.

Outer Banks Surf Pro 2009
The Outer Banks has always been a surfing hotspot. With consistent waves and warm waters it is a no brainer why surfers flock to our beaches. This year the Outer Banks hosts the 2009 Outer Banks Surf Pro on September 18th – 20th at the Comfort Inn South, Nags Head. The event will host 96 of the coasts finest surfers. This event will also play host to the annual Battle of the Banks where 12 prominent surfers from Virginia Beach take on 12 of best surfers of the OBX. For more information regarding this event and to register please visit http://www.waveridingvehicles.com/.

Kiteboarding
If running or surfing is not your style, why not try the new craze sweeping the nation - Kiteboarding. Now this is a sport that I suggest taking a few lessons for before you launch. From what I hear, it’s not easy, but once you get the hang of it, you will experience a thrill that very few of us have ever felt before. Have you ever dreamt you could fly? It’s very possible to literally fly over waves and soar many feet before touching down again. If there was a Mecca for Kiteboarding it would have to be the Outer Banks. Our consistent wind and calm sounds are great for learning and practicing the sport.

If you are not the athletic type, - don’t be discouraged. Being a spectator of these activities is unbelievable! I personally don’t run long-distance, surf, skim or kiteboard, but I take the most pleasure from observing these activities and snapping a panoramic photo from time to time. The Outer Banks continues to promote an active lifestyle and I recommend you to make a trip to the OBX should any of the above sound fascinating to you!