Run 906

Welcome to the exhilarating Race the Straits of Mackinaw Triathlons & Duathlon, where the breathtaking beauty of Michigan's iconic Mackinac Bridge sets the stage for an unforgettable athletic adventure. Nestled next to and beneath the bridge lies Fort Mackinac Park, serving as both the transition area and the triumphant finish line. With ample space within the expansive state park, there's boundless potential for growth and expansion, ensuring a dynamic and exciting event for years to come.

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey as you swim beneath the majestic Mackinac Bridge, traversing the waters of both Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The sheer magnitude of swimming beneath this architectural marvel is an experience like no other, setting the tone for an adrenaline-fueled race day.

On the bike leg, newly paved roads await, guiding you on a scenic route to the picturesque Wilderness State Park along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan and back again. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings as you pedal through this breathtaking landscape, soaking in the natural beauty of Michigan's northern wilderness.

As you transition to the run, the historic landmarks of the region provide a captivating backdrop for your journey. Follow the path along Lake Michigan, passing by the renowned Fort Michilimackinac, steeped in centuries of history and culture. Finish your race triumphantly in the heart of Fort Mackinac Park, next to the iconic Mackinac Bridge, where the sense of accomplishment is matched only by the awe-inspiring beauty of the surroundings.

Join us for the Race the Straits of Mackinaw Triathlons & Duathlon, where every stroke, pedal, and stride brings you closer to an unforgettable experience amidst the unparalleled natural splendor of Michigan's Straits area.

Known as the Mighty Mac, the Mackinac Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere and the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. Imagine for a moment - the sounds of seagulls flying above, ferry boat horns and waves crashing on the shoreline below, views of Mackinac Island and vast Great Lakes Vistas alongside you, the sun rising and washing the sky with glorious shades of orange...this is the Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Run, and it is the only running event on the Mackinac Bridge.

This non-competitive run is organized by Michigan Fitness Foundation and the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports with support from the Mackinac Bridge Authority and Michigan Department of Transportation. It is the only running event on the Mackinac Bridge.

• Registration includes a technical tee shirt, finisher medal and a race bib.

• The course is approximately 4.3 miles and not certified for distance.

• All participants are expected to finish the entire 4.3 miles by 8:00 am.

• All runners must be able to pace a 15-minute mile or less to participate.

• The Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Run takes place before the Labor Day Bridge Walk and is limited to 700 participants.

• This is not a walk or a run/walk, this is a running event only. If you are looking for information about the Labor Day Bridge Walk, visit https://www.mackinacbridge.org/events/walk/mackinacbridge.org.

To register and participate in this event you must provide proof that you can pace a 15-minute mile or less. To do this, enter a URL to recent race results or a screen shot from recent race results or from a running app to show your ability to meet the qualifications for this event. Questions? Email us at [email protected].

Join us September 12, 2026, at 9:30 am for the 54th running of one of the oldest and most scenic races in Michigan. Early Fall is the best time of year to run or walk the perimeter of Mackinac Island, where you will enjoy sparkling water, spectacular views and historic sites!

The Island is a unique destination that can only be reached by ferry - and no motorized vehicles allowed. Step back in time to a bygone era where travel is done by foot, bicycle, carriage or horse. We're expecting over 1800 runners and walkers this year - the Mackinac Island Eight Mile is definitely a race you will never forget!

🏃‍♀️ New Date, New Theme, Same Fun! 🍂

Registration for the 10K Run or 5K Run/Walk opens soon!

Get ready for the Annual "Moie Brown Memorial" Run for the Health of It, presented by First National Bank of St. Ignace! This year’s event is bigger and brighter than ever—with the return of the Color Run and complimentary root beer floats for all participants!

Join us on the Mackinac Straits Health System campus in St. Ignace for the in-person run/walk. Stick around town after the race and celebrate the Annual St. Ignace Fall Fest, happening at the Little Bear Arena.

Prefer to participate virtually? You can join the fun from anywhere—your neighborhood, favorite trail, or even another state!

We’re moving for a cause, celebrating community spirit, and honoring the legacy of Moie Brown, a beloved supporter of our hospital and community! We can't wait to see you in September!

📸 Don’t forget to share your colorful photos and results using #stignacerunforthehealthofit so we can celebrate with you! All proceeds benefit Mackinac Straits Health System and Evergreen Living Center.

When: Saturday, September 26, 2026; announcements will begin at approximately 8:15, with the race beginning promptly at 8:30 AM

Where: Mackinac Straits Health System St. Ignace Campus (or anywhere your feet will take you with our virtual race option!)

Registration includes a commemorative T-shirt or Long Sleeve Shirt and a finisher's medal

Important Dates

Don’t miss your chance to participate in the 2026 "Moie Brown Memorial" Run for the Health of It—in-person or virtually! Plan ahead and mark your calendars:

• Early Bird Registration Opens: November 1, 2025

• Discounted Early Bird Registration Pricing Ends: February 28, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

• Registration with a Guarantee of a Commemorative Shirt Ends: August 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

• Online Registration for IN-PERSON ONLY Ends: September 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (in-person registration available at 8:00 a.m. on race day)

• In-Person Race: September 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.

• Virtual Race: September 26, 2026, to October 10, 2026, at 11:50 p.m.

*We guarantee a specially designed t-shirt or long-sleeve along with a cool medal to those who register by Monday, August 2, 2026. Virtual participants can expect to have their shirts and medals mailed to them before the race. We DO NOT ship to Canada.

Award Information

We’re excited to celebrate our participants with custom awards handcrafted by the talented LaSalle High School Woodshop class!

• Overall Male & Female Finishers: Awards for each race

• Age Group Awards: Handmade awards for the following categories:

• 14 & Under

• 15–25

• 26–39

• 40–49

• 40–59

• 60–69

• 70+

If you’d like to purchase additional T-shirts or long sleeve tops, or have additional questions, please contact Race Director, Lani Fettig, at [email protected].

Course Directions

Both the 5K and 10K races start at Mackinac Straits Health System in St. Ignace promptly at 8:30 a.m.

• 5K Course: Runners head out to North State Street, then N. Airport Road past the airport and a small hill. After turning onto S. Airport Road, the course heads downhill back toward the hospital, looping around Evergreen Living Center to the finish line.

• 10K Course: Follows the same route initially, then turns onto N. State Street, continuing to Reagon Street, Lemotte Street, and Cheeseman Road. Runners turn around about a mile out and return to finish at the hospital loop around Evergreen Living Center.

Course Support: Standing signs, painted road markers, and volunteers will be placed throughout the courses to guide participants.

Copy and paste for route maps:

Run For Health 5K - 5km Running Route near Saint Ignace (ID: 2239783) (plotaroute.com)

Run For Health 10K - 10km Running Route near Saint Ignace (ID: 2239795) (plotaroute.com)

*Courses are subject to change slightly due to upcoming construction projects.

Join us for the 2026 Great Turtle Half Marathon and 5.7 Mile - one of the most scenic trail events in the country! Enjoy the beauty of Mackinac Island's Fall season running and walking the interior trails and shoreline during the last open weekend of the season. This is the 30th anniversary of this iconic Mackinac Island event!

All who register will enjoy a great garment in the Great Turtle tradition, a unique commemorative Turtle medal, goodies after the race and fun festivities! After the race, enjoy Halloween fun at Mission Point and Downtown Mackinac Island for adults and children, great end-of-season sales in the downtown shops, or just spend time enjoying the peace and serenity of the Island's interior!