As we head into May, things are picking up fast—with races like the Amway River Bank Run, Girls on the Run celebrations, Bear Lake Triathlon (our first tri of the season), and the always-beautiful Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, recently voted “Best Half Marathon” and “Most Scenic” in our 2024 Fly Awards.

We’ll be out there—camera in hand—capturing the effort, the smiles, the grit, and everything in between. That’s the good stuff.

Looking back on April, it’s clear—Michigan showed up.

We started the month with sunshine and strong vibes at the Shelley Irwin Fun Run, where over $40,000 was raised for WGVU. Then came April 27: a busy day with Rivertown Races taking over Millennium Park and Waterloo G+G serving up classic spring gravel—clouds, climbs, and a post-race BBQ that hit the spot.

Every race reminded us why we keep doing this. The stories, the community, the joy of movement—it’s all right here.

Whether you run, ride, swim, or paddle—race season is rolling, and we’re just getting started. Upcomings and recaps below.

Let’s go, May!

In racing,

𓆦 stellafly

LOOK FOR OUR PHOTOGRAPHERS AT THESE UPCOMING EVENTS IN MAY!

May 10: Hart Hills Gravel Race (Hart, MI)

Start/finish in downtown Hart and ride past asparagus fields and orchards on one of Michigan’s most rugged, scenic routes.

✔ 4 distances: 5, 13, 25, 55 miles

✔ Part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series

Register Here

May 17: Girls on the Run Kent County (Grand Rapids, MI) and Girls on the Run Michiana (South Bend, IN)

May 18: Armed Services Marathon/Half Marathon/5K (Grand Haven, MI)

Flat, scenic course with marathon major qualifying status

Register Here

May 18: Shiawassee Triathlon (Shi-Tri) (Owosso, MI)

Run/Paddle/Ride triathlon along the Shiawassee River

Register Here

May 24: Bayshore Marathon/Half Marathon/10K (Traverse City, MI) – SOLD OUT

Voted most scenic in the Midwest and a PR-friendly course.

We’ll have SIX photographers out capturing the magic.

The Michigan Gravel Race Series is well underway. Next up: Hart Hills, Cowpie and Coast to Coast!

Team Stellafly's Laura Sheets and Nicholas Fisher celebrate after running the TCS London Marathon. April 26, 2025.

A chilly start to the Rivertown Races Half Marathon. Saturday, April 26, 2025

Hart Hills Gravel Race

Sat May 10, 2025

Hart, MI

Ready to test your ENDURANCE on one of Michigan's most EPIC cycling routes?

Hart Hills takes you through the rugged, remote countryside of Hart, MI - winding past vast asparagus fields and picturesque orchards on a mix of gravel, dirt, and paved roads that will challenge and inspire!

✅ Start/finish in downtown Hart

✅ FOUR distance options: 5mi, 13mi, 25mi, and 55mi

✅ Perfect for ALL skill levels and fitness abilities

✅ Unforgettable terrain and stunning agricultural landscapes

✅ Part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series

Whether you're a casual rider or hardcore endurance cyclist, Hart Hills has the perfect route for YOUR adventure! Register today for a cycling experience you won't forget!

To Register: https://www.harthills.com/register.html

Amway River Bank Run

Sat May 10, 2025

Grand Rapids, MI

Every year, downtown Grand Rapids comes alive for the historic Amway River Bank Run, bringing together serious athletes and casual runners in a celebration of community and fitness. The scenic route showcased the city's best views as it wound along the Grand River, while enthusiastic spectators lined the course offering encouragement at every turn.

Established in 1978, this well-organized event delivers a seamless experience from registration through the finish line. Participants not only conquered personal goals but contributed to local causes through their participation, embodying the spirit that has made this race a beloved Grand Rapids tradition for generations.

In 2024, Amway River Bank Run won the 'Best 10K' and 'Best Weird Distance' Fly Awards. You can get registered here: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/AmwayRiverBankRun

Girls on the Run Kent County

Girls on the Run Michiana

Sat May 17, 2025

Grand Rapids, MI & South Bend, IN



Girls on the Run is a national transformative program for girls in grades 3-8 that culminates in a celebratory 5K race. Unlike traditional competitive races, these events focus on personal achievement and joy rather than speed.

During the 10-12 week program, participants meet twice weekly with coaches who blend running with lessons on confidence, healthy relationships, and positive decision-making.

The 5K itself is a colorful, festive event where each girl runs with an adult buddy for support. The atmosphere is unmistakably uplifting—filled with tutus, crazy socks, team t-shirts, cheerleaders, and encouraging signs. These inclusive events welcome participants of all abilities, ensuring every girl experiences the powerful moment of crossing the finish line and realizing that with perseverance and support, she can achieve what once seemed impossible.

We are lucky to photograph two in one day! One in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with one in South Bend, Indiana on the same day.

Armed Services Marathon/Half Marathon/5K

Sun May 18, 2025

Grand Haven, MI



Experience one of Michigan's most SCENIC courses at the Armed Services race series in beautiful Grand Haven!

✅ Start and finish in Grand Haven High School Football Stadium

✅ 97% paths, just 3% quiet roads

✅ BOSTON MARATHON, NYC MARATHON & Abbott Marathon Majors QUALIFIER

Located at Grand Haven High School (17001 Ferris St, Grand Haven, MI 49417)

Don't miss your chance to race this exceptional course while honoring our armed services! Register today!

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/3y49c5t6

Shiawassee Triathlon

Sun May 18, 2025

Owosso, MI



The Shi-Tri is a Run/Paddle/Ride Triathlon in Owosso, MI along the beautiful Shiawassee River. Participants begin with a 3.5-mile run/walk from Fitness Coliseum in downtown Owosso to McCurdy Park in Corunna. From there, participants will launch their kayaks or canoes into the river and paddle 3.5 miles back to Owosso where they will then bike a ~9-mile loop along country roads.

The Shi-Tri can be completed by ANYONE; Competitive, here for fun, or as a relay! You can even rent a kayak with registration. JOIN them for the 5th Annual Shi-Tri!

To Register: www.shi-tri.com

Bayshore Marathon/Half Marathon/10K (sold out)

Sat May 24, 2025

Traverse City, MI



VOTED BEST "HALF MARATHON RACE 

& MOST SCENIC" 2024 Fly Awards

The race that runners call "a love letter to Northern Michigan" is the iconic Bayshore Half Marathon! Over Memorial Day weekend, thousands of runners will take in the breathtaking shores of East Grand Traverse Bay on a course that combines natural beauty with ideal racing conditions.

The journey for the half starts with an exhilarating challenge – a 225-foot climb in the first half mile that quickly gives way to gentle terrain alongside crystal waters and blooming cherry orchards. Recognized as one of the Midwest's fastest courses, Bayshore offers the perfect setting for your next PR or snag that BQ.

THE FINISH: Nothing compares to the final moments of Bayshore as you enter Traverse City Central High School's stadium for a dramatic 200-meter track finale that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

We will have six photographers out there this year! We hope to see you for a weekend of scenic beauty, fast conditions, and flawless organization. If you haven't run this one, mark your calendars! This nationally-renowned event fills quickly when registration opens each December.

As part of the larger Bayshore Marathon weekend (including full marathon, 10K, and kids' marathon options), there are tickets available for the live podcast recording, No Foolin’! Lindsey Hein will host Dakotah Popehn on her podcast, I’ll Have Another and you can be there live at the beautiful City Opera House! It’s the perfect way to get last minute race tips and inspiration. Parking passes also are available. Less than 20 remain as this is written, so grab yours today!



Learn more over at BayshoreMarathon.org/registration

Bear Lake Triathlon

Sun May 25, 2025

Muskegon, MI



Located in picturesque North Muskegon, Bear Lake Triathlon is an athlete favorite featuring Sprint and Olympic Triathlon distances plus Duathlon, Relays and Aquabike, Bear Lake Tri has something for all triathletes as they get their race season underway!

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/4ppzcmd8

Grand Rapids Triathlon

Sat June 7 & Sun June 8, 2025

Ada, MI

VOTED BEST "TRIATHLON" in the 2024 Fly Awards

Your favorite Michigan triathlon tradition is Grand Rapids Triathlon presented by Huntington Bank. GRTri's flat and fast course is ideal for the new and experienced triathlete alike. If you are looking for your first-ever triathlon, this event is perfect for you. 

This two-day event will have Sprint and Super Sprint distance events on Saturday and the Olympic and Half distance events on Sunday. Along with triathlon, we offer Aquabike, Duathlon, Relays, Swim Only events.

Enjoy a beautiful swim in the lake-like Thornapple River, ride the flat country-road bike course then run our the scenic, shaded run course with loads of local support. For more information and how to register, please visit grandrapidstri.com.

To Register: grandrapidstri.com

Brian Diemer Festival of Races

Sat June 14, 2025

Wyoming, MI



One of West Michigan’s most iconic races is back for its 35th year—and we’re cheering them on every step of the way.

The Brian Diemer Family of Races returns on Saturday, June 14 at 8:30 AM, and if you’ve never been part of it, this is the year to change that. Founded by three-time Olympian and bronze medalist Brian Diemer, this event is fast, fun, and full of heart—exactly what we love about the local running scene.

Runners can take on a flat, lightning-fast 5K, compete for prize money, or jump into the mobility 5K or 1000-meter steeplechase for kids (with actual water jumps—yes, really). And it’s not just a race—it's a full-on celebration with live bands out on the course, the “Beat Brian” challenge, and a post-race gathering that brings the whole community together.

We’ll be there. You should be too.

For more info and to get registered, head to www.diemerrun.com. Let’s support this legendary local race and the incredible team that keeps it going strong.

Luton Park Time Trial

Sun June 15, 2025

Rockford, MI



A full-gas assault on Luton Park—this one’s all about speed, grit, and finding out who really owns the trail.

The Luton Park Time Trial is back on June 15, 2025, and it’s your chance to chase the KOM or QOM crown on one of West Michigan’s favorite mountain bike loops. No mass start, no pack tactics—just you, the clock, and the dirt.

All proceeds benefit the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation (PHRF), so while you’re racing for glory, you’re also riding for a great cause. Think you’ve got what it takes?

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/b5ap7xxp

KeyBank Gran Fondo

Sat June 21, 2025

Muskegon, MI



After two amazing years, Fondo is back—with a new name, but the same mission.

Say hello to the KeyBank Gran Fondo (formerly the Grand Rapids Gran Fondo), returning this June with all the signature highlights you know and love: pro timing, top-tier on-course support, police escorts, a celeb rider, and that epic finish line festival right in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.

At its core, this ride is about community—and raising serious funds for Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation. Theigoal? $125,000 in 2025. Let’s make it happen. Ready to ride?

Get the details and register now at keybankgranfondo.com.

To Register: keybankgranfondo.com

Dirty Donut

Sat June 21, 2025

Martin, MI

VOTED BEST "BIKE RACE" in the 2024 Fly Awards

The Dirty Donut Race is a unique gravel cycling event that combines competitive racing with a sweet twist. Participants can choose from five distances—10, 22, 42, 62, and 100 miles—and opt for either the "Sprint" division, where the fastest finisher wins, or the "Donut" division, where riders deduct five minutes from their finish time for each donut consumed at designated stops. T

This innovative format has earned the race significant acclaim, including four 2024 Fly Awards: Best Gravel Race, Best Race Director (Dan Frazier), Best Swag/Giveaway, and Best Bling/Awards . All finishers receive a medal, t-shirt, and, for most distances, a BBQ lunch.

Additional awards include custom jerseys and medals for Donut Champions, Sprint Champions, King and Queen of the Donut (most donuts eaten while finishing), and Team Champions in the 42-mile Donut race. Special divisions for Fat Tire, Single Speed, and Tandem bikes offer even more opportunities to win.

Embracing its motto, “A Race for All of Us,” the Dirty Donut Race offers a fun and inclusive experience for cyclists of all levels.

To Register: https://www.bikereg.com/dirty-donut

Trinity Health Seaway Run

Sat June 28, 2025

Muskegon, MI



We’re kicking off summer where the breeze hits different—Muskegon’s Heritage Landing—for the Trinity Health Seaway Run on the last Saturday in June.

From the 5K and 10K to the half marathon and community walk, this race is all about movement, lakeshore views, and showing up for the good stuff.

Run hard. Cruise easy. Walk it out with your people. However you show up, just don’t miss it.

Cool course. Good vibes. Zero regrets. Let’s make it a Saturday to remember.

To Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Muskegon/MercyHealthSeawayRun

South Haven Triathlon

Sun June 29, 2025

South Haven, MI



Get ready for Michigan’s only triathlon with a water slide start—yeah, you read that right. And honestly? We’re pretty sure it’s the only one like it in the country.

The South Haven Triathlon is coming to Lake Arvesta Farms Sports Complex in South Haven, MI, and it’s almost sold out.

This brand-new sprint-distance race gives athletes two options for the swim start: go the traditional route or launch yourself down one of three 240-foot waterslides into the lake. From there, it’s a fully closed bike course and a flat, scenic run through the grounds of Lake Arvesta Farms.

The water slide start is capped at 200 and spots are nearly gone—so if you’re thinking about it, go now.

Part of the Michigan Triathlon Series, this one’s a must for your summer race calendar.

Don’t just race—slide into it.

To Register: https://tinyurl.com/3e5yxbhr

The Shelley Irwin Fun Run

Sat April 19, 2025

Walker, MI



West Michigan showed up big on a chilly spring morning to move, smile, and support the power of public media. Together, we raised over $40,000 for WGVU Public Radio. That’s right—forty. thousand. dollars. All to keep local stories, voices, and community connection strong.

From dog walkers to Grimace to the East Bunny (yes, really), this crew brought the sparkle to Millennium Park. And Shelley? She was everywhere—hugging, cheering, laughing, and making sure every single person felt the love.

Huge shoutout to every runner, walker, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter who made this day happen. Also big love to Nathan Horton —our newest Stellafly shooter—for braving the cold and donating his time to capture the magic.

That’s a wrap on Year One. Let’s do it again.

Full photo album: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2688/

Rivertown Races Half, 10K, & 5K

Sat April 26, 2025

Walker, MI



Whether you were chasing an early-season PR, getting in a perfect springtime tune-up, or just soaking up a gorgeous morning with family and friends — Rivertown Races - 5k, 10k, & Half Marathon had something for everyone!

Starting and finishing at beautiful Millennium Park, runners hit the roads, trails, and bridges, taking in the rolling terrain, lakes, and wetlands that make this course so special. Add music, food, and family fun, and it was truly a great day for racing.

Even better — the race made a difference, with proceeds supporting the incredible work of Bridge Street Ministries and their urban youth programs.

Shout out to RD, Ryan Waalkes for having us out. We loved capturing every moment!

Full photo album: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2691/

Waterloo G+G

Sat April 26, 2025

Grass Lake, MI



We made our way back to the east side yesterday for the Waterloo G+G Gravel Road Race out near Chelsea and the Portage Lake Campground — and what a day it turned out to be. It started off cool and overcast (gravel weather perfection), but by afternoon, the sun was out and the vibes were high.

Chris Robotham got out on the course early to grab some early shots of the 100 mile roll-out and caught riders grinding up that first hill about a mile in. Then it was back in time to catch the 50 milers start before heading out to a sweet spot about two-thirds into the course to grab some on-the-move moments.

By the time he got back, the after party was already rolling — Smokehouse 52 BBQ in the air, Saugatuck Brewing in hand, and awards mixed right into the celebration. Doesn’t get much better.

Full photo album: https://www.flashframe.io/search/2690/

CHECK OUT WHERE WE'LL BE SHOOTING!

You'll keep receiving our news until you tell us otherwise.



And don't worry, we plan on keeping this a monthly newsletter as an attempt to keep you around. If you decide to unsubscribe, no worries, we'll see you at the races!

www.stellafly.com