It’s April and the spring running season is upon us. Most races offer up experiences than involve getting up at the crack of dawn, lacing up our shoes, making sure that we didn’t forget our timing chip and chugging it out, finally getting to the post-race snacks of bagels, bananas and granola bars.

But aliens? Who thought of that one?

A few human friends posing with a friendly Martian before the Martian Marathon in 2008.

Photo by Scott Hanson

Running Fit did.

At the Martian invasion of races this weekend, our Martian friends will be out in full force as mile-markers, souvenirs and prizes. This themed race, hosted by Running Fit, has been a staple spring race for many runners, human and non-human.

But don’t let the Martian theme fool you — some runners will be out racing for some serious cash. The Meteor 10K, which offers up the most prize money each year, draws many of Michigan’s elites including Michigan’s own Paul Aufdemberge and Denisa Cotescu, among others. You can check out the confirmed elite runners for 2010 here. The marathon will also be offering up cash prizes to overall winners — a first for this race.

Most of us won’t be out to win, but can still enjoy a great race atmosphere. The course for the races is out-and-back, which means runners can ogle those in front and behind them for most of the race. This is also great if you have friends running, so you can cheer each other on at various points on the course. The mostly flat route with a few rolling hills makes this race great for those looking to PR.

So if you’re looking for a great race to start the season or just out for that one-of-a-kind Martian shirt, look no further. The Martian races have something for everyone, person or alien.

Check out martianmarathon.com for more information!

Chelsea Earls is a runner and works at Running Fit in Ann Arbor. She can be reached at chelsea.earls@gmail.com