California is often associated with cutting-edge technology, alternative lifestyles and glamour. As a result, it is the go-to state for up-and-coming cultural trends. Yet, what most people don't know unless they live there is that the uppermost part of California is nothing but farmlands. Yes, that's right! Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger can drive 30 minutes north and step onto fields of vegetation. For this reason, it comes as no surprise that a northern California race - the Cowtown Marathon - was named after a four-legged farm animal.

The Cowtown Marathon is hosted by California's state capitol, Sacramento. It is normally held at the end of the year when temperatures are between 60 and 80 degrees. Besides live music, this marathon also has lots of give-a-ways, prizes, charities and food. Basically, the Cowtown Marathon has all of the amenities of a well-rounded race. Yet, these things aren't the best part of it. What sets it apart from other marathons? The course. It is really easy.

Yep, you won't have to buy a special pair of Filas or Nikes to run the Cowtown Marathon. The course is flat, fast and scenic. Therefore, all you folks who've never ran a marathon before should make this your first one. This run will give you the courage to tackle bigger and more difficult races like the Boston Marathon.

So, are you ready to face off with a cow? (Okay, it won't really be a face off, just a friendly meeting.) Then, consider running the Cowtown Marathon next year. It happens just before the holidays. And who knows? You might even run into the Terminator. It'll give you a chance to say the three words he's so used to hearing - "I'll be back!"