48th Annual Canal Run to celebrate community, health and Keweenaw beauty
HANCOCK, Michigan (May 2, 2023) — It’s time to get registered and start training for the 48th Annual Canal Run. Lace up your shoes and get moving for the race on July 15. Once again, Canal Run will showcase the natural beauty of the Keweenaw while bringing the community together to celebrate health and fitness.
The Canal Run offers several race distances and challenges. For seasoned runners, you can register for a half marathon, or a 10-mile race. Walkers are also welcome in select races. If the long distances aren’t your speed, try out the five-mile, or two-mile fun run/walk. Canal Run also hosts a half-marathon wheelchair race and a five-mile blade run (single or double amputee race).
“The Canal Run is a longstanding tradition in our community that encompasses fitness, family, friends and fun,” said Canal Run Race Director Angela Luskin. “I love how there are so many ways to be involved, from the four different race distances, running or walking and categories for wheelchair or blade participants, or the option to volunteer. We really try to include everyone with this event.”
One of the best parts about Canal Run is all the smiling faces you’ll encounter on race day. Runners, supporters and volunteers are happy to be there. In fact, the event relies heavily on volunteers who take time to manage one of the most unique courses in Upper Michigan. People handing you your snacks, waters and race materials are glad to share the experience.
“We have one of the most beautiful courses to run and walk along, following the Portage Canal,” said Luskin. “From breathtaking views to the great camaraderie by fellow racers, it is an event you don’t want to miss!”
For the kiddos to burn off energy, there is a kids dash after the two-mile fun run starts.
SCHEDULE:
Friday, July 14
Registration/Bib pickup (3-8 p.m.) – Registration and bib pickup is on the Quincy Green at 435 Quincy Street in Hancock.
Key Ingredients (6-8 p.m.) – Hancock comes to life, find live music in town
Saturday, July 15
Bib pickup (6-8:45 a.m.) – Pick up your bibs the morning of Canal Run at the Church of the Resurrection (900 Quincy St.) five blocks from the finish line. There is no registration the day of Canal Run.
Race starts (7:15-9:20 a.m.) — Races will start in various locations at staggered times through the morning.
7:15 a.m. — 10-mile walk at McClain State Park
7:30 a.m. — Half marathon at Koskela Road
8:00 a.m. — 10-mile Bob Olson Memorial Run at McLain State Park
8:50 a.m. — Five-mile run at High Point Road
8:55 a.m. — Five-mile walk at High Point Road
9:20 a.m. — Two-mile fun run/walk at Cemetery Road near Swedetown Creek
10:30 a.m. — Kids dash
You can participate by registering online, or signing up to volunteer. You can find what positions are available now.