It seems that in addition the minimal attire, runners are also embracing the trend of minimalist footwear and "barefoot running" during the latest running boom.
In 2012, it is expected that more than 200 runners will take place in the 5K run at Cypress Cove nudist resort when it hosts the second-annual clothing-optional "Streak the Cove 5K" run on Sunday, May 20 at 8:30 a.m.
The 3.1-mile race will take runners through the grounds of the Kissimmee resort known as "The Cove" before ending with a post-race ceremony poolside, which will include raffles and refreshments. Last year, 166 runners participated in the inaugural run. The race has received significant publicity via print and radio outlets. A YouTube video previewing the Streak the Cove run, launched before the inaugural race last year, has received more than 70,000 hits.
Why nude running? Many runners are attracted to a nude 5K for the novelty only to become regulars at such races, which are hosted by more than a dozen member resorts of the
American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR).
Competitor magazine recently listed running a nude 5K among its "bucket-list"
for endurance athletes.
At Cypress Cove, the first 20 male and first 20 female finishers (age 21 and
over) will receive commemorative mini-bottles of "Streak the Cove" wine. All
pre-registered athletes are guaranteed to receive Tultex T-shirts.
North America is in the midst of a third running boom, which some attribute to
the recession. As Americans have been forced to take greater responsibility for
their finances and health care, they’ve naturally gravitated to an inexpensive
sport that welcomes newcomers of all abilities.
In recent years, Cypress Cove has hosted a number of music-themed weekends that
have drawn big crowds.
Article by:
Pete Williams