On your mark, get set, GO! The communities of Shores & Islands Ohio host several races throughout the year welcoming locals and visitors to participate. From fun runs and 5Ks to an Ironman 70.3, there are races at various intensity levels and for all ages.
The 2024 RUNDUSKY Race Series features nine race events the City of Sandusky and Firelands Health put together to promote outdoor recreation. Participation in this race promotion is free, but registration and any associated costs are done per event. By participating in four of the nine races, individuals will earn a RUNDUSKY Race Series hoodie. Participation in five or more races will include entry into a drawing for a race package including entry to all 2025 RUNDUSKY events.
Races for RUNDUSKY include the Boy with the Boot 5K on the Fourth of July, the Rush to the Crush Wine Sprint at Firelands Winery, the Save Your Pumpkins 5K, and start cheering for Ohio State University or University of Michigan with The Race Before the Game by running the “Dot the i”, “Big O”, or “Block M” courses.
While Ironman 70.3 is one of the RUNDUSKY events, this competition is on a larger stage. Athletes from around the world come to Shores & Islands Ohio on July 21, 2024 to compete in the 1.2-mile swim, 13.1-mile run, and 56-mile bike ride vying for a slot to the 2025 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Spain. Ironman 70.3 will be hosted in Sandusky until at least 2027.
If you want to run on an island, look no further. Put-in-Bay saw the return of the Draft Day 5K and Fun Run on April 28th to celebrate the Cleveland Browns. This island will also see the return of the annual Miller Boat Line 5K and 1-mile Family Fun Walk on September 21st. Then enjoy the rest of the day at Big Day on the Bay. Kelleys Island also hosted a race in early June, the 41st Annual Kelleys Island 5 & 10K Run/Walk, which allows runners to enjoy the waterfront views while running and at the post-event festivities.
Want even more running opportunities? Check out events like Huron River Fest or Oak Harbor Apple Festival to see what types of runs are included in their activity lineup. Osborn Metropark also has a weekly 5K 
community event on Saturdays as part of the international PARKRUN program. It is free to participate but be sure to register and bring your barcode so you can see your results.
Regardless of how you race or when you run, Shores & Islands Ohio is here for you. With over a dozen planned runs from April to November, you can select one race or many. Want some new spots for training? Check out the trails and parks in the region for a change of scenery and even hit a new personal best. Looking to bring a race to the region? Contact our group sales team today.
