Experience Sleeping Bear Dunes at 16th annual Port Oneida Run
From staff reports
Lace up your running shoes for one of Michigan’s most scenic race courses. The 16th Annual Port Oneida Run will take place on Saturday, August 1, a fundraising event hosted by the nonprofit park partner Sleeping Bear Forever (formerly Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear).
Three races are offered including the Homesteaders Hilly Half Marathon and the Tiller’s 10k which go up past Pyramid Point trailhead, and the Farmers Flat and Fast 5K ventures out and back on the Heritage Trail and Basch Road in Port Oneida. The Kid’s Schoolhouse Dash is also being brought back this year with participant treats from Cherry Republic.
The only race of its kind, the courses wind through the beautiful scenery of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore’s Port Oneida Rural Historic District. The run starts and ends at the big red barn at the Olsen Farm/Port Oneida Farms Heritage Center, 3164 W. Harbor Hwy, (M-22) Maple City, MI, just 4 miles north of Glen Arbor. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome on the 5K.
To register, visit Phsb.org/port-oneida-run-2/. All races have a wave start with professional chip timing. Post-race celebrations include race awards and food. Afterwards, participants can take a swim on the beautiful Lake Michigan beaches down the road in Port Oneida.
“This race supports preservation of the park’s historic structures and landscapes that are so integral to our National Lakeshore. We encourage the community’s participation to help preserve these treasured resources,” says Sleeping Bear Forever’s Executive Director, Susan Pocklington. “Last year marked our largest number of participants, and we would love to continue to grow this year.”
Spectators are invited to gather at the finish line and support our racers with applause and cheers. Bring a blanket and enjoy the festivities in the park. Bring your park pass.
