We all have our race weather preferences—crisp fall air, warm sunshine, maybe even a little drizzle to keep things cool. But sometimes, Mother Nature has a very different vision for race day than we do. Bad weather doesn’t just test our physical endurance; it challenges our mental strength, forcing us to dig deep and adapt. While we’d never wish for terrible conditions, there’s something undeniably rewarding about tackling a tough race day. Let’s take a look back at five of the most memorable (and weather-challenged) iDaph Events races!

5 - Frostbite Race - 2023

Weather: 56 degrees, bright sunshine, and absolutely gorgeous.
Wait... this was BAD weather? Yep, for a February Frostbite Race, 56 degrees felt more like spring break than a winter challenge. While we were thrilled with the turnout, we couldn’t help but laugh at the irony of hosting a race with “frost” in the name on a day that required sunscreen instead of gloves. 🙃

4 - Black Bear Half Marathon - 2021

Weather: A flooded course just 24 hours before the start.
Sometimes the real challenge isn’t the race itself—it’s getting the race ready. Torrential rain turned our beautiful half-marathon course into a soggy mess. Our team pulled an all-nighter rerouting the course, reassigning volunteers, and working with local police to make race day possible. The result? A wild and wonderful run that proved teamwork makes the dream work. 🐻💧

3 - WNC Flyer - 2024

Weather: Non-stop rain the whole ride.
When we say “endurance,” we’re talking about mental endurance, too! This past year’s WNC Flyer was a soggy adventure from start to finish. Cyclists braved soaked gear, slippery roads, and relentless rain. It was one of those days where the post-race hot chocolate and dry clothes never felt so good. 🌧️🚴‍♂️

 2 - Resolution Run - New Year’s Eve 2018

Weather: A city-wide ice storm in Asheville—race canceled.
When the roads are pure ice, sometimes the best decision is to wave the white flag. The 2018 Resolution Run didn’t go as planned, thanks to an epic ice storm that turned downtown Asheville into a skating rink. While we missed ringing in the New Year with you on the course, we knew everyone’s safety had to come first. (Bonus: Nobody broke their resolutions before midnight!) 🥶⛸️

 1 - Asheville Marathon - 2013 (The OG Race)

Weather: Freezing cold, cutting wind—literally the coldest day of the year.
The inaugural Asheville Marathon was unforgettable for so many reasons, least of which was the brutal weather. Sub-freezing temperatures and biting winds made this race one for the books. But the brave souls who toed the line—and finished—proved just how tough our running community is. Hats off (or maybe on) to everyone who showed up.

Racing in bad weather isn’t just about finishing—it’s about what you gain along the way. Tough conditions teach us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of relying on each other. When we embrace adversity and push through, we walk away with stronger minds, unforgettable stories, and a deeper appreciation for the nice days. (Plus, let’s be honest—bad weather races make for epic bragging rights!) As long as it’s safe to hit the course, there’s no better reminder that we’re tougher than the elements. So, whether it’s warm and sunny or frigid and wet, we’ll see you at the start line.