Happy spring, Michigan athletes!
As winter fades, athletes emerge from hibernating in their “pain caves”, trading indoor training for open roads and layers. Despite a mild season so far, we’ve adapted by taking advantage of the conditions. We share grit to train whenever, bundle up however needed, and get creative with workouts whatever the forecast. Ever-changing conditions present opportunities to improve, not obstacles.
The extra daylight boosts moods and offers more hours to be outside. With race season gearing up, it’s time to start planning. It’s an exciting time, reconnecting face-to-face after solo winter grinds. Coming together gives us a chance to gauge our hard work when no one was watching.
Use this month to fuel your potential. Pick your A race. Layer up, down, and back up. Support a local race. See where you are now. Spring in Michigan is always an adventure. We look forward to seeing what you accomplish this year. Let’s go!
Cheers,
Stellafly 𓆦
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FEB 24 2024 Team Stellafly, along with their friends at Tris4Health held a fundraiser — Cycle Up for Upcycle. This event featured three hours of instructor-led spinning for a good cause. Lots of sweat and miles later, they collaboratively raised $475 for Upcycle Bikes.
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We asked local coach Kari Stuart on how she helps her triathletes plan their race season. In her post, she offers her perspective on preseason planning and share tips on which approach might be best for you.
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ON WITH THE SHOE With running season in full gear, shopping for running shoes can be daunting. We hear from Dr. Ed K. from University of Health West about all the new foam choices, the science behind this part of the shoe and what it means for you. READ MORE
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Sat March 3, 2024
Deep Lake Campground
2526 S Yankee Springs Rd
Middleville, MI 49321
Get pumped for the Winter Trail Fest at Yankee Springs! It's not your average run—it's a mix of winter trail madness and unexpected surprises. Picture a half marathon and 5-mile race with a river crossing thrown in for that extra "What The F...?!" factor. The afternoon start means you can chill in the morning before tackling the winter trails. Feeling daring? Take the icy plunge in the river, or opt for a bit more distance to stay dry.
And here's a bonus: if you're up for more trail fun, join them again in June for the Summer Trail Fest and score the STFU (Summer Trail Fest Ultra) medal. Not into river crossings? No problem! Check out their Winter Trail Fest Eastside in Brighton, Michigan. It's all about trail-running with a side of "What The F...?!"—an adventure you won't want to miss!
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Sun March 10, 2024
3868 West River Dr NE
Comstock Park, MI US 49321
Brought to you by Rapid Running Races, there's a brand new race that implements the beloved White Pine Trail. Just in time, as the winter chill begins to loosen its grip, anticipation is building for the annual White Pine Thaw Marathon Relay! This isn't just your average race; it's a celebration of camaraderie, endurance, and the breathtaking beauty of the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail.
Unleashing the Trailblazers:
Teams are forming, each with its unique name and a spirited captain at the helm. These captains, the trail pioneers, lead their squads through the stunning southern stretch of the White Pine Trail in Comstock Park, Michigan.
More Than Miles:
This isn't just a run; it's an epic journey covering 26.2 miles of picturesque trails, courtesy of routine plowing by the Friends of The White Pine Trail. Runners will experience a blend of tranquility and challenge, navigating low-traffic crossroads and pushing their limits.
Team Tactics and Tenacity:
The heart of the relay lies in teamwork. Teams, ranging from the strategic to the whimsical, collaborate to conquer the course. Each team member takes on a leg of the relay, sharing the thrill and camaraderie that only a trail adventure can offer.
Safety First, Adventure Always:
As the course crosses public roads, participants are reminded that the trail is not closed. Safety is paramount, and runners are encouraged to make well-timed crossings, ensuring that the adventure remains exhilarating and secure.
The Trail Unites:
This isn't just a race; it's a celebration of the running community. Teams bond, friendships are forged, and memories are etched into the trail. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer, the White Pine Thaw Marathon Relay welcomes all to share in the joy of the run.
Ready to Be a Trail Legend? Register Now!
Don't miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary trail tale. Sign up and secure your spot at the starting line!
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Sat March 16, 2024
Centennial Park, Holland, MI
Lads and Lasses,
Get ready to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day festivities with a splash of green and a whole lot of fun at our 8th annual St. Paddy's Leprechaun Chase 5K run in Holland, Michigan! Join in on Saturday, March 16, 2024, for a day filled with running, laughter, and Irish spirit—all for a great cause.
Event Highlights:
🏃♀️ Leprechaun Chase 5K: The main event starts at 9:00 AM from Centennial Park, taking you on a scenic journey through downtown Holland, Windmill Island, and the charming Hope College campus. Finish with a flourish and receive your well-earned finishers medal, with top 3 in each age group also claiming victory.
🏃♂️ Wee Chase: Let the little ones join the fun! The Wee Chase, a quarter-mile course around Centennial Park, is perfect for kids aged 4 through 8. Registration is free, so sign up your little leprechauns online or at Centennial Park before the run.
🍀 Dress the Part: Embrace the Irish spirit and don your most festive green outfits and Irish costumes. Let your creativity shine on the course!
🤝 Charity Focus: This event is more than a run; it's a chance to make a difference. The St. Paddy's Leprechaun Chase 5K is a fundraising initiative by the Holland Running Club, with proceeds going to the West Michigan Chapter of myTEAM TRIUMPH. Together, making road racing accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Race Day Essentials:
- Wee Chase Start: 8:30 AM
- 5K Start: 9:00 AM
- Medals: Finishers and top 3 in age groups
- Post-Run Snacks: Hot chocolate, coffee, boxed water, donut holes, bananas, and donuts await at Centennial Park.
Remember, online signup for the 5K closes on March 15th, with NO race-day registration. Plan ahead and secure your spot in this festive run for a cause!
Don't miss the chance to run, revel, and raise for a purpose. Rest assured this race will go on no matter what so sign up now and let the Irish spirit guide your strides!
Lace up those running shoes, and let the St. Paddy's Leprechaun Chase 5K be your lucky run this year!
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Sun March 24, 2024
Millennium Park - Grant Pavillion
1400 Maynard Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534
Join the movement for a good cause at Meals on Wheels Western Michigan's 3rd Annual March for Meals Community Walk & 5K! This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages and abilities, uniting the community to champion the health and independence of older adults in Western Michigan.
Walk two miles or challenge yourself to the 5K run—both follow a scenic 2-mile loop, with the 5K extending a bit further into the park. Whether you're walking or running, the emphasis is on coming together for a shared purpose. Dogs are welcome so bring them along, adding an extra layer of fun to this fantastic community event.
Lace up, leash up, and make strides for a healthier and more independent future for older adults in Western Michigan. It's more than a walk or run; it's a celebration of community and support. We'll see you at the starting line!
USE PROMO: STELLAFLY for $5 off registration!
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Sat April 20, 2024
Walker, MI
Looking for an early-season primer? How about a springtime PR to kick off your season? Or, maybe you want a race you can run with your kids without fighting big-city traffic and congestion. This race is for you! Rivertown races is a perfect race for the elite athlete as well as the first time runner.
With a start and finish at beautiful Millennium Park, runners will travel over roads, paved trails, and bridges while enjoying the rolling terrain, wetlands, and lakes that encompass this unique location. Food and beverages, music, and family fun will be available throughout the event.
If you are training for the Amway River Bank Run, this half marathon fits in nicely with the suggested training schedule for that race.
Professionally organized and timed. And all proceeds go to support the urban youth ministry of Bridge Street Ministries.
USE PROMO: STELLAFLY for $5 off registration!
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Sat April 13, 2024
Saranac, MI
Dust off those bikes, lace up those running shoes, and prepare for a gritty showdown at the 7th Annual Dirty 30 Gravel on Saturday, April 13, 2024! Organizers welcome you to the heart of Saranac, Michigan, just east of Grand Rapids, MI, where gravel action meets unbridled adrenaline.
Event Highlights:
🚴♂️ XDirty 130: Kickstart the dirt mayhem at 7:00 AM with our ultra-challenging 130-mile course – a true test for the gravel warriors who dare to ride.
🏃♀️ Slick 6 Run (10K): Ignite the gravel underfoot at 8:15 AM for a 10K trail that will test your endurance and determination.
🏃♂️ Stride 5 Run (5K): Hit the gravel at 8:16 AM for a gritty 5K run that will push your limits and leave you breathless.
🚵♂️ Slick 6 Bike: Launch into the gravel adventure at 8:30 AM and conquer the course on two wheels like never before.
🚴♀️ Filthy 50: Brace yourself for the ultimate challenge starting at 10:00 AM – 50 miles of gravel madness that separates the fearless from the rest.
🚵♀️ STS Bicycles Dirty 30: Join the gravel revolution at 10:10 AM for a course that promises excitement and endurance.
🚴♂️ Unclean 16: Dive into the dirt at 10:15 AM with a 16-mile course that packs a punch and tests your true grit.
🚴♀️ Mini D3.0 for Kids: Start 'em young at 1:30 PM with a mini dirt course for our budding gravel champions.
Race Series Honors:
- The Unclean 16 is part of the Mini Course MGRS Series.
- The STS Bicycles Dirty 30 is part of the Short Course MGRS Series.
- The Filthy 50 is part of the Long Course MGRS Series.
- The XDirty 130 is part of the Ultra Course MGRS Series.
Join in as riders unleash the gravel madness! Register now and mark your spot in the gritty history of Dirty 30 Gravel.
USE PROMO: vald30 for $5 off registration!
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Sat April 27, 2024
Robin Hills Farm, Chelsea, MI
Gear up for a thrilling escapade through the wilds of Lower Michigan's largest park at the Waterloo Dirt Road Randonnée! After a sell-out success with 805 riders last year, organizers have upgraded to a new venue, inviting you to join the excitement at nearby Robin Hills Farm in Chelsea, Michigan. Get ready for a ride like never before, exploring the varied terrains and breathtaking landscapes that define the Waterloo Recreational Area.
Event Highlights:
🚵♂️ Diverse Courses: Embrace the challenge as you navigate through rolling hill climbs, swift descents, winding curves, and rare straightaways. The courses, shaped by Waterloo Recreational Area's glacial history, promise a mix of paved, patched, and dirt-rock roads. Get ready for an adventure that will test your grit and reward your spirit.
🌲 Scenic Beauty: Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Lower Michigan's largest park. From dusty trails to grimy adventures, every turn offers a chance to experience the beauty of the wilderness.
🎉 New Venue: Bid farewell to the old and welcome the new! Our start/finish location has moved to Robin Hills Farm in Chelsea, MI, bringing a fresh perspective to familiar routes. Get ready for a seamless transition that allows us to accommodate even more riders and grow together in the years to come.
Event Important Note: Due to overwhelming demand and two consecutive years of selling out, they've outgrown their previous location. The new venue promises the same excitement, with the added benefit of accommodating the expanding community.
Ready to Ride? Register now and secure your spot for an unforgettable journey through the wilds.
ALMOST SOLD OUT! REGISTER TODAY!
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Sat May 4, 2024
Downtown Hart, Hart, MI
Mark your calendars for a unique Michigan gravel race experience this spring. The Hart Hills Gravel Race is happening on May 4, 2024! If you're on the lookout for a different racing experience, this is the race you need to sign up for.
Racers start and finish in the heart of downtown Hart, MI. This race offers an array of segments that'll get you into zone 3. Conquer challenges like Hart Breaker Hill, Stan's Stomping Grounds, and Remember Kelly – these segments are the real deal.
Choose your battlefield wisely with options like the mini course (13 miles), short course (25 miles), mid course (35 miles), and the granddaddy of them all, the long course (55 miles). Oh, and race organizers didn't forget our young and beginner riders – there's a cool 5-mile course just for you.
Here's the lowdown: Hart Hills is not just any gravel race; it's also part of the prestigious Michigan Gravel Race Series. Your efforts in the 13, 25, and 55-mile courses contribute to the MGRS Mini, Short, and Long Series respectively. Check them out and level up your gravel game!
And because we believe in celebrating every achievement, the race will be chip-timed by Epic Race Timing, the finish line and awards ceremony will be in front of Hart Pizza. Hot pizza, cool brews – the perfect reward for conquering a tough course with your gravel friends.
But wait, there's more – expect some serious bling! Overall and age group winners will be honored with unique medals. Elite riders, gear up for some serious cash prizes for the top 3 overall 55-milers – $150, $100, and $50 for both male and female riders. Age group winners won't miss out either – they'll receive well-deserved recognition and those coveted Hart Hills medals.
Whether you're an elite rider, a seasoned cyclist, or just starting, Hart Hills welcomes everyone to the gravel adventure of a lifetime. See you at the starting line! 🚴♂️🏅🍕
USE PROMO: valhart24 for $5 off registration!
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Sun May 19, 2024
Grand Haven High School, Grand Haven, MI
Gear up for an unforgettable running experience at the Armed Services Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K – a race that not only challenges your endurance but also pays homage to the strength of our military and first responders. Lace up your running shoes and hit the scenic courses of Grand Haven, Michigan, where every stride qualifies you for the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, and the Abbott Marathon Majors Series.
On race day: Military branches will be setting up shop in the stadium, each booth a beacon of pride. Before the start, a Joint Services Honor Guard opens with The National Anthem. Into the run, aid stations will be manned by different military branches where you can cast your vote for the standout aid station. One winning branch will clinch the illustrious "Traveling Trophy." Currently held by the U.S. Marine Corps, it sits proudly in their office, a testament to their victory in 2021 and 2022.
And here's the kicker – your run isn't just for personal glory. A chunk of the proceeds goes to Folds of Honor Michigan, a charity that's dished out nearly 44,000 scholarships totaling almost $200 million since 2007. This isn't just a race; it's a run with a purpose, supporting the families of America’s fallen and disabled service members.
The Armed Services Marathon was named runner-up in the Best Marathon and Half Marathon in Michigan in the 2023 Fly Awards! So, fellow runners, join the movement at the Armed Services Marathon. Run not just for the finish line but for the heroes who've paved the way. Every step counts, every mile matters – and it's all for a cause that fuels the spirit of running with heart and purpose. See you at the starting line!
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Sun May 29, 2024
North Muskegon, MI
Dive into the excitement at West Michigan's inaugural triathlon of the season! Nestled in the scenic beauty of North Muskegon, the Bear Lake Triathlon isn't just an event – it's an athlete favorite! Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or just starting your journey, this event has it all.
Choose your challenge from Sprint and Olympic Triathlon distances, or opt for the Duathlon, Relays, and the brand-new addition, Aquabike! Bear Lake Triathlon caters to every type of triathlete, making it the perfect way to kick off your race season.
Join us for a day of thrilling competition, breathtaking views, and a celebration of athleticism at Bear Lake Triathlon – where the fun begins, and the triathlon season takes off!
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1/6 Marathon (Friday) RECAP
Sat February 3, 2024
Walker, Michigan
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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!
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