2026 Scary Scamper

Ready to take on the BINGO Run challenge?

This race is a backyard-style event with a fun twist and a definite finish. The goal is simple: earn bingo and have the fastest lap time to wrap up your race. Each 2.6+ mile lap you complete in the 28 minutes or less you get to draw a bingo ball. Then, it’s back out with the group for the next loop. Loops will go off every 28 minutes. If you don’t complete your bingo by the 4th or 8th lap, you'll earn the infamous DNB (Did Not Bingo) status, but don’t worry, you’ll still get a time, distance, and competitor Woodle.

You’ll can choose between two bingo card options, depending on how much you want to run:

The 3x3 card will get you 7.8-13 miles depending on when you draw BINGO (Max Loops 5)

The 4x4 Card will get you 10.4 - 20.8 miles depending on when and if you draw BINGO (Max Loops 8)

You choose which card you want to sign up for.

Course and Location:

The race starts at the Sunfish Lake Parking Lot in Lake Elmo in the parking lot of the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center. The 2.6 mile trail loops around Sunfish Lake and will be marked with ACR arrows, but be aware of many offshoots and the fact that trails are open to the public. We do our best with signage. This is more single track style hiking trails.

Registration Information:

Register on the Runsignup page. Prices will increase on the following dates: 3/9/2025, 7/26/2025, and on race day 8/6/2024. Register early to get the best price.

Location and Parking:

The race starts at the Sunfish Lake Trailhead which shares a parking lot with Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center.

Packet Pickup:

Pre-race day packet pickup details are TBD; expect it to be one night the week before the race. Day-of packet pickup starts at 7 AM and includes your bib number, timing chip, and any event swag.

Race Schedule:

• 7:00 AM - Race Check-In & Day-of Registration opens

• 8:00 AM - Bingo Race Start

• 8:28 AM - 2nd Lap

• 9:24 AM - 3rd Lap

• 9:52 AM - 4th Lap (Final Lap for the 3x3 cards)

• 10:21AM - 5th Lap (4x4 only)

• 10:30AM - Awards for Bingo 3x3

• 10:49AM - 6th Lap (4x4 only)

• 11:17AM - 7th Lap (4x4 only)

• 11:45AM - 8th Lap (4x4 only)

• 12:00PM - Awards (time subject to change)

Aid Stations:

There will be water and light snacks at the Start/Finish line. Please bring your own water bottle to minimize waste, but a water refill station will be available at the start.

Timing and Results:

The Bingo Run is a gun-timed race using chips. Each runner must wear a race bib visible at all times, especially when crossing the finish line. Timing is based on a group start. Faster runners should start closer to the start line, while walkers should start near the back of the corral to prevent bottlenecking. Be considerate of other racers by stating when you are passing and moving to the right if your pace slows. Results will be posted on our Runsignup page, and QR codes will be available for immediate result checks at the finish line.

Awards and Prizes:

Awards will be given to the top 3 overall male and female finishers based on gun time.

Race Rules and Guidelines:

The trail is open to the public; please be courteous to pedestrians.

Pets are not allowed; the trail can get crowded.

Your bib must be visible at all times.

Post-Race Celebration:

The post-race celebration begins as soon as runners cross the finish line, featuring music and light snacks.

Spectator Information:

The best spot for spectators is at the starting line. There are a few spots along the trail where you can catch your runner and then cut across to see them again.

Safety Precautions:

The trails are open to the public; be cautious and courteous.

This is not a stroller-friendly course due to loose soil, mud, dirt, and hills.

No bikes are allowed in the race.

Please leave your pets at home.

Volunteers Needed:

Volunteers receive one free entry to a race of their choice within a year. We always need volunteers; we cannot run the races without you! Email us at [email protected] to volunteer.

Weather / Cancellation:

We know that August can be very hot and Athena Clydesdale Racing and its race directors reserve the right to cancel or delay the event in case of inclement weather. There are no refunds.

Are you looking for that perfect training run before the Twin Cities Marathon? How about a scenic jaunt around beautiful White Bear Lake? Would you like to participate in a race that give 100% of proceeds back to community charitable organizations?

Register today for the 25th Annual Bear Water Run 10 or 20 mile race.

Race includes:

• Themed water and Gatorade stops managed by local non-profits every two miles

• Champion Chip Race Results

• USATF Certified Course

• Abundance of food at end of race

• Tech Shirts for all finishers to be picked up at end of race

• All finishers will receive a Finisher's medal.

Prices are as follows:

10 mile race: $55 through Sept. 8, 2026

$60 Sept 9, 2026 to Race Day

20 mile race: $60 through Sept. 8, 2026

$65 Sept. 9, 2026 to Race Day

Event details and schedule

Saturday, September 12, 2026

Registration starts at 6:30 AM at Ramsey County Beach

Race starts promptly at 8:00 AM

Full runner support will be available until 1:00 PM.

Race number and chip packet pick up is available at the White Bear Lake Armory from 5:30 - 8:30 PM on September 11, 2025. The Armory is located at 2228 4th Street, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Packets may also be picked up at the registration table the morning of the race.

Officer Shawn Silvera's Story

Officer Shawn Silvera, of the Lino Lakes Police Department, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on September 6, 2005, while deploying stop-sticks during a high-speed chase. His life was taken tragically at the age of 32, leaving behind his wife and two young children. This race is held in his memory and pays tribute to a life dedicated to service. Fallen but never forgotten.

Life is made by what we give. Run with us!

The Invisible Wounds Project

Our mission is to support the mental health and well-being of veterans, first responders, and their families. We connect these individuals with therapists experienced in their unique challenges and offer wellness programs and social opportunities to help them engage with their communities. Our initiatives strengthen family ties, build a supportive network, and benefit hundreds each year by fostering purpose and giving back. Donations and fundraising efforts like this are essential, enabling us to continue providing these vital services and expanding our impact within the community.

The Public Safety Challenge is a special event within the Shawn Silvera 5k dedicated to honoring all first responders, including Law Enforcement, Firefighters, EMS personnel, front-line medical staff, Corrections officers, Dispatch professionals, and Military members. This challenge brings these heroes together in a friendly competition, where teams compete for a coveted traveling trophy. Challenge Accepted!

How to Participate

You can form a Public Safety Challenge Team or join an existing one to be part of the excitement and camaraderie.

• A minimum of four runners is required to create a team.

• The team captain registers the team with a chosen team name.

• At least two team members must be current or former First Responders.

• The remaining two runners can be friends or family members recruited by the team.

• The best three finishing places from a team will determine the Challenge Champions, and at least two of these three must be First Responders whose place points are scored.

The Civilian 5k Challenge is a spirited race held in tandem with the Public Safety Challenge, inviting all runners who seek not only personal achievement but also the opportunity to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans and first responders. Whether running solo or as part of a team—of any size—participants join together in recognition of the courage and dedication shown by those who serve.

• No service record is required; everyone is welcome to participate.

• Participants may run solo or as part of a team of any size.

• For teams, the top three finishers’ places will be counted to determine the Civilian Challenge Champions.

• All runners in both the Civilian 5k Challenge and the Public Safety Challenge are eligible for special awards.

The day is designed to celebrate healthy competition and honor the enduring legacy of our heroes.

Donations:

Our first responders give so much every day. Help us give back! Proceeds from the run support The Invisible Wounds Project and the Police Explorers for youth considering a career in law enforcement. Consider making a $10 donation at registration—the cost of a fancy latte at Starbucks or a chicken quesadilla at Taco Bell. Your generosity makes a difference, and it feels good to give!

Become a Fundraiser! Sign up to become one of our fundraisers. It's the best way to contribute the most and comes with it's own set of awards!

Vendor Fair

We are pleased to invite vendors to participate. This event provides an excellent opportunity for businesses and organizations to promote their products and services while connecting with a large audience of first responders, veterans, and their friends and families.

Booth Space Details

Vendors will be offered booth space at no cost during the event. We encourage participating vendors to make the most of this opportunity to engage with attendees and showcase their offerings.

Donation Request

While there is no fee for booth space, we kindly request a donation of 15% or more from the profits made on race day. Your generous contribution will help support Invisible Wounds Project and its mission.

How to Secure Your Spot

Space for vendors is limited. To reserve your booth, please email Matt at [email protected]

Sponsorship Opportunities

Become a sponsor, get involved, and help support our first responders! Companies and individuals looking to show their appreciation can contribute through sponsorships. We offer sponsorship levels to match your interest and involvement. For more details click "Become a Sponsor!" in the menu at the top of this page or email: [email protected]

The Invisible Wounds Project is proud to present the Ride Against Suicide, a 4-day 260 mile bicycle tour climbing over 10,000 feet elevation, taking place annually the last week of September. The RAS starts in Zumbrota, MN at the Gary Schroeder Jr Memorial (located the Zumbrota Police Department), travels through western Wisconsin, and back into Minnesota as we roll into the Concert for a Cause event!

The Invisible Wounds Project is a 501c3 non-profit founded in 2018, based in Forest Lake, MN. Our mission is to positively impact and enhance the lives of those who serve(d) by providing mental health resources. The IWP serves current and former Military, First Responders, Frontline Healthcare Workers, and their immediate families. www.iwproject.org 100% of funds raised directly go to Invisible Wounds Project to continue to provide these resources.

Our mission during the Ride Against Suicide:

• Raise awareness for Veteran and First Responder suicide and the services available to those who IWP serves.

• Normalize the conversation and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

• Honor and remember those we have lost to suicide and line of duty deaths, remind those who are still struggling they are not alone, and stand with those families whose lives are forever changed.

If you would like to donate in memoriam or support the event monetarily, you can do so here. If you there is a specific cyclist or team you would like to sponsor, you can search for them here or on our Top Fundraisers list.

Please checkout the Founder and Coordinator of the RAS, Brandon, fundraising page to learn more about the origin and the "why" of this rewarding cycling tour.

This year's tour will take place September 23 to September 26, 2026. The tour is fully supported and escorted by first responders. $100.00 non-refundable fee is required upon registration and will be considered as part of your minimum fundraising requirement. Fundraising minimums deadline September 1, 2026.

Registration Options:

• Full Tour:

• Includes cycling tour jersey, lodging, and breakfast/dinner.

• Access to Support and Gear Vehicle

• Fundraising Minimum $1,000.00.

• Cyclists are responsible for their own transportation to Zumbrota, MN and from Forest Lake, MN.

• Daily Ride Individual:

• Access to Support and Gear Vehicle

• Fundraising Minimum $250.00.

• IWP RAS T-Shirt

• Cyclists are responsible for their own transportation to the start and from the end.

• Daily Ride Team/Relay:

• Access to Support and Gear Vehicle.

• Fundraising Minimum $1,000.00 per team.

• IWP RAS T-Shirt for Each Participant

• Cyclists are responsible for their own transportation to the start, each rest stop, and from the end.

Participants are encouraged to create and personalize their fundraising page and share.

Daily route links via RidewithGPS (routes subject to change), Start and End times TBD:

• Day 1: Zumbrota, MN to Hudson, WI 69.8 miles 3,188 ft elevation

• Day 2: Hudson, WI to Menomonie, WI 49.5 miles 1,772 ft elevation

• Day 3: Menomonie, WI to Chetek, WI 53.3 miles 2,291 ft elevation

• Day 4: Chetek, WI to Forest Lake, MN 87 miles 2,962 ft elevation

Media Links:

• KEYC Event Coverage 2024

• KAAL Pre-Event Coverage 2025

• KAAL Send-Off Coverage 2025

The Night Owl Races are an excellent way to take the next step in trail running. The Six Hour Shuffle and Six Hour Team Shuffle is a good introduction to ultra running. Long enough to get past the marathon distance, but not too long. The Namesake Night Owl 5K and 10K are great introductions to night time trail running.

All three races are run on grassy ski trails over rolling hills. Their will be trail lights on for the 5K, 10K races and the final hour and a half of the 6hr shuffle, runners need to bring supplemental lighting with either a headlamp or hand held flashlight.