Where the boys are

Ever see that movie from the 60’s titled “Where the Boys Are”? It’s about four college girls that go to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to seek out romance for themselves. Every time I hear the title, it makes me think of hip locals with lots of eligible bachelors hangin’ out.

I’ve lived in BsAs for about 1 ½ years now, and I keep hearing the same story over and over again: there are more single women here than there are single men. Well ladies, this post is for you. I’m not one to give out unsolicited advice, but I’d like to share something with you. I don’t know where the boys are, but I do know where the hot, fit, good-looking men are.

What does this have to do with running? Well, these same places (where you’re sure to find lots of men) are coincidentally some of the most popular places to run in BsAs.

Here, there are way more men that run than women. I recently did my own unscientific research study in order to prove my point. Take a look at the race results from the recent Origenes Media Marathon: 1637 male runners that finished, and only 341 women. Another example, the 10k results from the Maratón por la Vida: 675 male finishers and 186 female finishers. Are you with me? You can see where I’m going.

So where are they? Read on for my list.

The Rosedal

It’s an extremely popular place to run and also play sports. It has a well-marked one-mile paved loop circling Palermo’s lake. It is well-maintained and has restrooms, water and lights for running at night. I’ve lost count of how many running groups meet here to train - there’s that many! Lots of runners meet here to do their speed work session. You’ll also find roller hockey players, roller-bladers, soccer players practicing, in general lots of people.

The Path following Avenida Figuroa Alcorta from Recoleta to River Plate Stadium

This is primarily an asphalt path that runs along the street through the Parks of Palermo. Here you’ll find lots and lots of runners running solo, and in small or large groups. This is a popular path to run, but also to do a warm-up before heading to the Rosedal or the Golf Lake to do harder training sessions.

The Lake next to the Municipal Golf Course

This is primarily a hard-packed 2-k dirt loop that circles a small lake next to the municipal golf course. Again, tons of different running groups meet here to train. In addition, you’ll find rugby teams and soccer teams working out.

All three places are in the Palermo Parks green spaces. What does that mean? Think tall trees, open grassy areas, small lakes, flowering plants, and lots of people out getting some exercise.

A few more details that I think you’d like to know. Although you’ll see people running here at all hours of the day, the most popular times to run are Monday – Thursday from about 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm or on the weekend during the morning hours. (Here, Friday is a popular day to rest.) Also, what is great is that you’ll find runners of all ages, from casual joggers to serious runners.

Buenos Aires is a big city, with lots of places to run. I’ve only listed 3 places here, but there are certainly lots of other great places. If you live here and have a place that you like to run, please let me know.

Ok, there you have it. Put on your running shoes and head out the door. BsAs is full of runners. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, meet a new friend, or possibly start a new romance, I’m certain you’ll find what you are looking for.

Jenn