Door County Half Marathon, a run in Peninsula State Park
Saturday, May 3, 2008 marks the first annual Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5K Fun Run/Walk. Over 400 participants have signed up to run in these events and the numbers are still climbing. The allure of a course centered in Peninsula State Park and the cool spring temperatures typical in early May are attracting participants from across the country.
Beginning at 10 am just as the sun is beginning to warm up temperatures, runners will take off in the first ever Door County Half Marathon. The USTAF certified course winds through paved surfaces throughout Peninsula State Park exposing runners to some of the most spectacular views in the Midwest while weaving through the blossoming woodlands of Wisconsin’s most popular park. Both the start and finish are located near Nicolet Bay Beach, frequently hailed as one of the best beaches in the Midwest.
The Door County Half Marathon has something to offer every runner. Serious, competitive runners can use this race as an opportunity to train for marathons or other events held later in the season. For these runners, the course offers challenging hills along the way. Runners who like the popular 13.1- mile distance or who are running a half marathon for the first time will enjoy the scenic views and springtime beauty the course promises along the way.
Those interested in a shorter run, can join in the fun by running or walking in the Nicolet Bay 5K Fun Run/Walk starting at 10:30 am. Participants will enjoy the beautiful views of the bay.
On Friday, May 2, the weekend will kick off at the Ephraim Village Hall where participants can pick up their running packets and enjoy an all-you-can-eat pasta dinner.
By hosting a running event in Door County in early spring, organizers hope runners will take advantage of this great time of year to both run in the park and visit Door County. During this quieter time of year visitors can enjoy the best of Door County, great restaurants, shops, lodging and camping available at seasonal rates.
Organizers hope families enjoy a weekend filled with fun activities, one they keep coming back to year after year. They also hope to benefit Door County charitable organizations and the community as a whole.
