5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathons

  • 5k races
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    About 5k races

    A 5K is the shortest of the common running event distances, consisting of 3.1 miles (5 kilometers).  These events can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular event you are looking into running.  5Ks are the most popular of road running events because of their relatively short distance which allows not only the seasoned runners to run, but novice runners, joggers and newcomers as well.  5Ks are also something fun for families to do together.

    How did we choose the best 5K events in Minnesota?

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event.  Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered.  Other factors included how long the course has been around, the race swag and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.  There are currently 801 5K races in the state of Minnesota.  Most of these 5K races are held in April through November.

    What are the best 5K races in Minnesota?

    There are many 5K races to choose from in the state of South Dakota.  Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some are fun runs and others are racing events, but it all comes down to the runners.  Some of the most notable 5K running events in Minnesota are the Polar Dash 5K, the New Prague 5K and the Superbowl Freeze Your Buns 5K Run & Walk.

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  • 10k races
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    About 10k races

    A 10K is one of the most common running event distances, consisting of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or more for fun, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are twice the distance of the 5K and still  relatively short in distance. Less runners tend to participate then the 5K, but these events still get a lot of not only seasoned runners, but novice runners and joggers in attendance.

    How did we choose the best 10K events in Minnesota? 

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event.  Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors included how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.  According to Running in the USA, there are 141 10K races in South Dakota.  Most of these races take place in July and September.  There are at least 3 10K races held January through November with zero held during the month of December.

    What are the best 10K races in Minnesota?

    There are many 10K races to choose from in the state of Minnesota.  Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some are fun runs and others are racing events, but it all comes down to the runners.  Some of the most notable 10K running events in Minnesota include the Drumstick Dash 10K, the Moustache 10K Run and the Stillwater 10K.

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  • Half marathons
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    About Half marathons

    A Half Marathon event consists of running 13 miles (21 kilometers) and as the label suggests, is half of a standard Marathon of 26 miles.  The popularity, participants of the half marathon distance, and its events have significantly grown since the early 2000's and they continue to do so, with massive events popping up all over the states.  The growth rate of participants for the half marathon distance is currently higher than that of the full.  According to Running In the USA, there are 71 half marathons in the state of Minnesota.  May and June are the most popular months for these half marathon events.

    How did we choose the best Half Marathon events in Minnesota?

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event.  Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered.  Other factors include how long the event has been around, the runner perks and Finisher's Medals, what runners thought of the event and how scenic the 13.1-mile course is.

    What are the best Half Marathon events in Minneapolis?

    Minneapolis is the largest city in the state of Minnesota and is part of the Twin Cities metropolitan area.  With 13 lakes, wetlands, the Mississippi River, the creeks and various waterfalls, Minneapolis is a popular location for a half marathon event.  The most notable half marathon events in Minneapolis are the City of Lakes Half Marathon and the Get in Gear Half Marathon.

    What are the best Half Marathon events in St. Paul?

    St. Paul is the capital city and second largest city in the state of Minnesota, which makes it a popular location for a half marathon event.  Some of the most notable half marathon events in St. Paul are the Minnesota Half Marathon, the Monster Dash Half Marathon and the Polar Dash.

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  • Marathons
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    About Marathons

    Marathon events consist of 26 miles (42 kilometers) and the courses are typically laid out through roads. Starting in the Olympics in the early 1900's, marathons have quickly picked up in popularity and in 2017 there are currently more than 800 events being held in North America, and that number is consistently growing.  Over 90% of these marathons are being held in the United States, with 7%  being held in Canada.  About 72% of these marathons are certified, which means they are Boston Marathon Qualifiers.  September and October are the most popular months for marathon events, with over 100 in each month.

    How did we choose the best Marathon events in Minnesota?

    We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event.  Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered.  Other factors include how long the event has been around, the runner perks and Finisher's Medals, what runners thought of the event and how scenic the 26.2-mile course is.  Five of the ten marathons described above are qualifiers for the Boston Marathon.

    What are the best Marathon events in Minnesota?

    Minnesota is home to 20 marathon events with most of these held in June.  As the "Land of 10,000 Lakes", each 26.2 mile course provides runners with an opportunity to enjoy the majestic beauty of this state and its many lakes.  Some of the more notable marathon events include the Walker North Country Marathon, the Makato Marathon and the Ely Marathon.

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