If you’re looking for an early-spring race in Michigan, the Probility Ann Arbor Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is one to check out. This year the race is headed up for the first time with help from Epic Races, the Ann Arbor-based race management company that’s known for its quality triathlon events and running races like Tri Goddess Tri and the Detroit Goddess Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, among numerous others.
Epic Races is partnering with Champions for Charity on these Ann Arbor races, slated for Sunday, April 3.
Read on for reasons to run the Probility Ann Arbor Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K.
1. Really great courses. All distance events — marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K — start just outside one of Ann Arbor’s most memorable landmarks: the University of Michigan Stadium. From the Big House, participants run through the vibrant streets of downtown Ann Arbor, then wind their way through the panoramic University of Michigan campus. The marathon and half marathon courses also encompass stretches along the Huron River and Gallup Park and through Nichols Arboretum before returning to campus and downtown. All races end with a spectacular finish right on Main Street. The Probility Ann Arbor Marathon is USATF certified and serves as a qualifier for both the Boston and New York Marathons; it’s also the Road Runners Club of America state championship event for Michigan.
2. Best swag! Here’s what you’ll get as a runner in one of these events: Long sleeve tech shirts and a keychain medal (check out a photo of the race medal at the end of this post — if you want to see it before race day. Otherwise, don’t scroll all the way to the end.)3. Awesome indoor track race expo. The Probility Ann Arbor Marathon Health and Wellness Expo at the University of Michigan Indoor Track takes place from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 2. It’s open to the public and features “A2 Runs Together Mini Sessions” every half hour. Hear from local fitness professionals on topics such as how to train for your first triathlon, athletic recover from Tri-Covery, and how FST and sports massage can help refresh legs, increase performance and decrease injuries. A LifeStretch class, a yoga-format type of instruction, also will be available, teaching athletes on doing FST on themselves to loosen “sticky” and tight joints in the body.
4. Race proceeds help support local charities. The Ann Arbor Marathon is a major fundraiser for six featured charities, all of which work hard to improve the lives of people in the local community. These six organizations include: the Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation; Team Red, White, and Blue; SafeHouse Center; Ronald McDonald Houses of Ann Arbor; the kite network; and JDRF. Learn more about each of these charities and about other non-profit groups that will be fundraising at the Ann Arbor Marathon here »
5. Virtual running opportunities. Missing out on the fun because other commitments are keeping you away on April 3? No worries! You can still be a part of the Ann Arbor Marathon by registering to run or walk the Virtual Half Marathon. You choose the route — through Ann Arbor, at your favorite park, even on your treadmill — and complete your 13.1 miles between March 1 and April 3. You’ll receive the same swag as the actual half marathoners! To register, go here »
6. Fantastic awards. A few of the awards offered: Ann Arbor Marathon Hoo Rag (a lightweight, multi-purpose buff-like piece of clothing) or running hat. Awards are five deep in each age category for the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon.7. Family-friendly. Kids can sign up for the 100-Meter Kids’ Dash, open to children ages 14 and under. The Kids’ Dash takes place on Main Street, allowing the event’s youngest participants to experience the thrill of crossing the official finish line, just like all Probility Ann Arbor Marathon competitors.
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Ready to sign on? Register and get more details (including info on the race’s partner hotel) by clicking here »
And now, the medal reveal for those who wish to see before race day…
