Jamaican Bobsled Team Courtesy: Team Ortho
Right about now people across the Twin Cities, Minnesota and many other states have May 31st circled on their calendars as “race day” in Minneapolis. We already discussed the new Minneapolis Marathon at the Depot. But the Half Marathon, which happens in conjunction with the marathon, has a lot of surprises in store for runners as well.
While this year is the first year for the Minneapolis Marathon, it’s actually the second year for the Half Marathon. Last year, because of the 35W bridge reconstruction, the runners did three loops in the downtown Minneapolis area. Team Ortho Executive Director John Larson says this year there is a “major change in course”. The route starts at the Depot, but takes you along the Mississippi River for most of the way. Larson believes spectators in particular will appreciate the route, “One huge loop is easier for spectators.”
Two big contests
Larson explained the two contests that will be going on which are exclusive to the Half Marathon. One contest is called Beat the Jamaican Bobsled Team. Another involves giving prizes to people who finished exactly in the middle of the pack.
Beat the Jamaican Bobsled Team means running the race faster than 1:58:00, which is the estimated time for the team. Larson said it all started with last year’s Monster Dash when runners kept commenting on how they couldn’t believe the Jamaican Bobsled Team was ahead of them. So they are back for this race. Anyone who beats the group wins a 750 ml. stainless steel water bottle.
Also there will be prizes and recognition for a handful of runners who finish right in the middle of the pack. Specifics on what the prizes are haven't been revealed yet, but I do know the organizers will do articles on them after the race.
Registration is still open for the Half Marathon; the fee is $65.00.
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