Clare Irish Festival Road Race
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Clare Irish Festival Road Race
The Clare Irish Festival Road Race celebrates its 51st year in 2026. This athletic event takes place in Clare, Michigan, with all activities centered at Clare High School. The race serves as a fundraiser for local running programs.
The event features several distances for participants:
- 10 km Run
- 5 km Run
- 2 Mile Walk
- 1/2 Mile Kid's Run
The 5 km, 10 km, and 2 Mile courses utilize chip timing for both the start and finish lines, located in front of the high school. The 5 km and 2 Mile routes have been updated to include a flatter final mile by removing several hills. Participants in the 10 km who choose to walk should note that their times will not be recorded.
Event amenities at Clare High School include changing facilities and a pancake breakfast for participants in the primary race distances. T-shirts are provided to the first 400 registered participants. The Kid's Run, held specifically for children, includes a medal and a t-shirt.
Awards are presented to the top three finishers in various age groups for the running events, ranging from 12 and under to 80 and up. Specific plaques are also designated for overall winners, masters (50 and over), and youth (14 and under). For safety reasons, dogs are not permitted on the course, though baby strollers are allowed if positioned at the back of the starting group. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
