Fun for the Whole Family at Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend
We love our hometown marathon, the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, but we also know that the marathon distance isn’t for everyone. In fact, we think the best part about the sport of running is that it is big enough to embrace all types of runners: long distance, short distance, blazing fast, super slow, children, adults, masters, and everyone in between! As a celebration of all runners, the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend offers events for the whole family, not just marathoners, and there’s still time to register!
If you find yourself looking for a shorter distance race or an event the whole family can enjoy, look no further than the first weekend in October. Psst…no matter your age or ability, everyone is invited to the Health & Fitness Expo with more than 120 exhibitors!
Related: Forget the Marathon! Why You Should Run the TC5k, 10K, and Family Events
About the TC 5K, 10K, and Family Events
The TC 5K, 10K, and Family Events take place the day before the Marathon and TC 10 Mile on Saturday, September 30th. Check out the full schedule of events here.
5K and 10K runners run out-and-back sections on the Marathon and TC 10 Mile course and kids of all ages can participate in family events on John Ireland Blvd and State Capitol grounds.
TC 10K
Date: Saturday, September 30th
Start time: 7:15 a.m.
Location: State Capitol Grounds
The TC 10K follows an out and back route along the last 3.1 miles of the Marathon and TC 10 Mile course along the scenic Summit Avenue. Finishers receive a technical t-shirt, medal, and post-race refreshments.
Why You Should Run
10K runners get to experience the thrill of Summit Avenue and cross the same finish line as the marathon! The best part? You only need to run 6.2 miles to get there!
The 10K is a great distance for all levels of runners. Beginners can rise to the challenge of a longer distance race and experienced runners can test their limits on a beautiful course.
Related: Why You Should Run a 10K for Your Next Race
TC 5K
Date: Saturday, September 30th
Start time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: State Capitol Grounds
Similar to the 10K, runners of the TC 5K start about two hours after the 10K race on Saturday, September 30th. The course closely follows the end of the Marathon route with a loop around Selby Avenue to Summit Avenue, finishing on the same line as marathoners, 10 milers, and all runners of all Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon weekend events.
Why You Should Run
First and foremost, the 5K is awesome! Whether it’s your first or fiftieth 5K, you can challenge yourself to complete the distance, set a PR, or simply have fun. The TC 5K is a fantastic way to experience the thrill of marathon weekend without running 26.2 miles.
Related: Why and How You Can Run a 5K
TCM Family Events
Date: Saturday, September 30th
Start time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (full schedule here)
Location: State Capitol Grounds
The schedule of TCM Family Events offers five kid-friendly races including a Family Mile for kids and adults of all ages, a Half Mile, Harry & Shelly’s Mascot Invitational for mascots, a Diaper Dash on the State Capitol lawn, and a Toddler Trot for kids ages 1-5.
Why You Should Run
If you have a small runner at home, the TCM family events are the perfect way to get the whole family involved in marathon weekend. Kids and adults of all ages (including parents with strollers) can enjoy the family events, plus all participants receive a t-shirt, medal, and/or a participant gift!
See You at the Finish Line!
No matter what distance you challenge yourself or your family to over Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon Weekend, we hope you have a great race! See you at the finish line!