Whether you’re an avid runner or would like to try a new challenge, 5K races are a great way to experience the encouragement and excitement present in many running communities. In fact, the 3.1-mile race is the most popular length to run. According to Race Raves, almost half of all registrants in a race of any length tackled the 5K distance in 2017. Perhaps you’d like to train before competing in the Twin Cities Marathon hosted by Medtronic and held on the first weekend in October, or complete a new fitness goal, or cheer on a favorite runner. Whatever your goals may be, here are some upcoming races to check out in September.
Weekend of Sept. 10-11
This weekend has several fun choices to pick from, including the Between Cities Fun Run in Minneapolis, the second annual. Cross the finish line for a reward of donuts and drinks. Or, head over to Burnsville for the Heart of the City Run, hosted by a charity that aims to benefit the lives of children and their families. Race against a running legend at the Dick Beardsley Races in Detroit Lakes, complete with music and goodie bags, or visit Plymouth for the Minnesota Brewery Running Series, held Saturday at the Luce Line Brew Co. All participants receive a craft brew and prizes. On Sunday, you could participate in the Outlaw Run, which has historically been held on the Defeat of Jesse James Days in Northfield.
Weekend of Sept. 17-18
The 28th annual Nickle Dickle Day will be held in Waconia on Saturday, and will feature a 10K race as well as the 5K and youth run. Try out the Mankato Beer Run, hosted at the Mankato Brewery and highlighting tunes and beer after the race, or head to Currie for the Chasing the Bacon Trail Fun Run. The race will take you through a corn maze, country roads, and a painted prairie vineyard. Near Burnsville, you could participate in the Circle the Lake Half Marathon, which will also feature 10K and a 5K distance races. Another option is to join with nearly 30,000 participants running for cures, at the MMRF Team Run in Saint Paul, which raises funds for the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
Weekend of Sept. 24-25
For this weekend, there are multiple exciting options. Check out the Ely Marathon, held up north and also featuring a 5K race, as well as a half marathon with options to portage a canoe if you’re looking for an extra challenge. Visit Owatonna for the Daikin Dash, as participants will be continuing the fight against cancer for the eighth year. A Mountain Fest Run will be held in Detroit Lakes, including a sasquatch run and mountain biking. On Sunday, head to Maple Grove for the 17th annual Minnesota Hope and Hearts Run, a memorial event and fundraiser in support of the Missing GRACE Foundation. In Andover, you could run alongside participants raising money for the For Jake’s Sake Foundation and high school seniors in the Race to Raise Awareness.
