When Julie Bosch was told she should start running, she had no idea what that meant.

No treadmill, no water, just her and the ground below.

But after her first race, Stroh's Run for Liberty, 24 years ago, she became hooked on running.

"Some people use the word addiction, but I just totally love it," said Bosch, 47.

Whether it's for competition, fun or exercise, road races and marathons offer a way for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors, as well as stay fit.

In 1981, the Missouri Valley YMCA started a marathon, which has now turned into the Kroll's Diner Roughrider Marathon. Marlina Walth, a member of the planning committee, said this event, which includes a marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon, marathon relay and 5K race, is a huge accomplishment for many runners. "Once people achieve that goal, often times they're hooked," she said.

And since most events start age groups at about 5 years old, that addiction can start early.

Even with an addiction, though, hot weather, nerves and an increased heart rate sometimes can be a challenge, and finding that motivation is often a struggle.

James Schanadore, coordinator for the Mandan Fourth of July Road Race, said people enjoy the challenge of road races and marathons. "They give people a chance to see what they're capable of."

After 24 years of running, Bosch said she still gets nervous for her races. But part of her motivation comes from mentally preparing herself. "I'm past the idea that I have to succeed every time; now, I compete against myself," Bosch said. "Running is weird, though. Just because you slow down doesn't mean you quit; you always keep going."

On July 16, the 12th annual Tour da' Park 5K Walk /Run/Roll will take place at Sertoma Park. Dave Allard, race coordinator, said there are many ways people are drawn to this road race. Besides the fun, exercise and prizes that are included, this event also allows races for rollerblades and wheelchairs.

Schanadore said people are drawn to his road race mainly because it goes with the festivities of the Mandan Rodeo Days. Last year was their 50th year, and between 250 and 300 competitors participated. "We have many local participants," said Schanadore."But we also get people from all over the country."

Another reason people are drawn to road races and marathons is because many times they are fundraisers for numerous causes. The Fourth of July Road Race and the Beat the Sunrise Road Race, which is held July 26 at Raging Rivers Waterpark, both benefit the Mandan High cross country team.

Walth said the Roughrider Marathon chooses a different local charity to support each year. "Last year's recipient was Teen Challenge, but the 2008 recipient is yet to be determined," she said.

Bosch said she feels it's important for her to support local races, which is why she can be spotted at most races in the Bismarck-Mandan area.

Even with snow on the ground in the winter and the blazing sun in the summer, Bosch said if she could do whatever she wanted every day, she'd pick running.

Maybe that's because, as a recent article in Midwest Living said about the Roughrider Marathon, "if running 26.2 miles doesn't take your breath away, the scenery will." Walth said this marathon is one of the prettiest marathon courses in the state.

She also said this marathon, among others, can "take your breath away."