Fun Fact
Humans are the best long-distance runners on the planet, able to beat horses (and everything else) in marathon distance races.
Before the Big Day
Deferments are available online until registration closes. To defer your entry, log in to your Race Roster account to request and pay the deferral fee.
Reserve a room with one of our Lodging Sponsors conveniently located near the shuttle pick-up and drop-off point, or ask any area hotels if they offer a Grand Forks Running discount.
Sorry we are not able to offer refunds as our profits are donated to local charities, but you may defer or transfer your entry which can be done through your Race Roster account.
Transfers are available until the online registration closes. Log in to your Race Roster account to find instructions. You will be charged a transfer fee and any difference in the entry fee.
If transferring to another runner, please note any new participants will need to sign the waiver on their Race Roster account in order to complete.
There are several ways to participate in the Grand Forks Running events as a volunteer. Check out our volunteer options to learn more.
Fun Fact
In 1977, an 8-year-old ran the NYC Marathon. He finished it in just over 3 hours.
Spring Thaw Weekend
Most aid stations will be on the right side of the road.
Water is at the first table and Powerade (flavor TBD) is at the second table.
Half Marathon: 2.5, 5, 6.5, 8, 10, & 11.75
10K: 2.5 & 4.75
5K: 1.5
The SCHEELS Expo and Packet and Swag Pick-Up will be held at the following times and locations:
SCHEELS Health & Fitness Expo:
Friday – 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM at ICON Sports Center 1060 47th Ave. S.
Packet and Swag Pick-Up:
Friday – 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM at ICON Sports Center 1060 47th Ave. S.
The Family Fun Run gives kids aged 12 years and younger a chance to be a part of the Spring Thaw weekend! There are different distances to make this a safe and fun event for everyone. All participants 12 years of age or younger will receive great swag! Parents are encouraged to get out and run with their children.
GU will be available at approximately miles 5 & 10 on the Half Marathon course.
The flavors provided are TBD.
Expo & Packet Pick-Up Parking:
Expo-goers are kindly asked to park near either the ICON Arena or the southeast side of the Choice Fitness building, near the water slides.
Please do not park in the northwest Altru patient parking spots or the parking areas closest to the southwestern door for Choice Fitness members.
Parking for Friday night events:
Plan to park in the ICON Arena parking lots on both the north and south side of the building.
Please respect employees and clients of the Crary Retail Plaza and Choice Health & Fitness by not parking in those lots.
Parking for Saturday events:
Option 1 – Park in the ICON Arena parking lots on both the north and south side of the building. (Volunteers are also allowed to park here).
Option 2 – Safety First: Overflow parking may be available in Altru’s Professional Center on the west side of South Washington Street, but use extreme caution and the crosswalk at 47th Ave. S. to cross South Washington Street – it is a very busy highway!
Please respect employees and clients of the Crary Retail Plaza and Choice Health & Fitness by not parking in those lots.
Pick up your Spring Thaw race bib and swag bag during the Marathon Expo at ICON Arena located at 1060 47th Ave. S. or Saturday morning from 6:30-7:30 AM at ICON Arena.
What you’ll need to pick up:
You will need a photo ID to get your bag and swag.
To pick up for another person, you will need either written permission or to sign up a form stating who you are and who you picked up for.
Relay bibs and swag for the entire team will be given to one team member.
Find all race start times here.
Find spectator zones where you can go to cheer for runners on the course map.
The course closes at 11:30 AM for all races.
Complete the Go Grand Challenge by completing the 5K on Friday night and then complete the Half Marathon, or 10K on Saturday.
To sign up, select the “Go Grand Challenge” option when registering, and enjoy an additional unique gift at the finish line!
Fun Fact
A 150-pound person burns about 2,600 calories during a marathon.
After the Finish Line
Grand Forks Running supports local charities! Our mission is to support active, healthy lifestyles to enhance the quality of life in the Grand Cities. Learn more.
After your race, stop by Base Camp with your race bib to enjoy your free drink and enjoy plenty of refreshments and family-friendly fun at 4401 S Washington St.
Don’t see the answer you’re looking for?
Email us at director@gfmarathon.com and we’ll get back to you in a dash.