2 running events in Elkhart County, Indiana

Maple Syrup 5K & Maple 1-Mile Run/Walk

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Location: NorthWood Middle School

301 North Elkhart Street, Wakarusa, IN 46573

Everyone is Welcome!

Runners, walkers, and beginners — join us for a fun, family-friendly event during the Wakarusa Maple Syrup Festival!

Choose from:

• Maple Syrup 5K Run/Walk

• Maple 1-Mile Run/Walk (for kids 13 & under)

• Or run both with the Combo Option! After the race, enjoy delicious maple treats and explore the charming local shops of downtown Wakarusa.

Race Day Schedule

Maple 1-Mile Runs – 7:30 AM

• 12 & Under Run

• Competitive 13 & Older Run/Walk Maple Syrup 5K – 8:00 AM

If you’d like to participate in both races, please select the Combo Option during registration.

Packet Pick-Up Information

We strongly encourage Friday Night pickup to avoid race-day delays.

Friday Night Packet Pick-Up

Date: Friday, April 24, 2026

Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Location: NorthWood Middle School

301 North Elkhart Street, Wakarusa, IN 46573

Please use Doors 17 only on Friday Night

Race Day Packet Pick-Up

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

Time: 6:00 – 7:50 AM

Location: NorthWood Middle School

301 North Elkhart Street, Wakarusa, IN 46573

Please use Doors 17 & 13

T-Shirt Guarantee

Register by March 15, 2026, to guarantee your race t-shirt!

After that date, shirts will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Prefer no shirt? Choose the no-shirt option and save $5!

Participant Age Guidelines

• 5K & Combo: Participants must be at least 6 years old on race day.

• 1-Mile 12 & Under: Participants must be ages 4–12 on race day.

• 1-Mile 13 & Older: Participants must be 13 or older on race day. All participants must be registered.

Stroller Policy

Strollers are welcome in both events!

Please note:

No bikes, scooters, skates, rollerblades, or similar items.

Parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s safety while in a stroller.

Pet Policy

Although we love our furry friends, pets are not allowed at any event due to safety concerns.

Certified service animals are always welcome.

Timing, Parking, and Policies

• Chip Timing provided by Watts My Time

• No Refunds

• Parking: Available at NorthWood Middle School and Wakarusa Elementary School (400 N Washington St, Wakarusa, IN 46573)

Join us for the Ideal Beach Triathlon, an exhilarating event set against the stunning backdrop of Elkhart, Indiana! This triathlon is designed for athletes of all ages and skill levels, offering a variety of race formats to challenge and inspire participants.

Event Types:

Sprint Individual Triathlon: Perfect for seasoned triathletes and newcomers alike, this event features a 400-yard swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 3.1-mile run. Test your limits and race against the clock in this fast-paced challenge!

Sprint Relay Triathlon: Gather your friends and form a team for the Sprint Relay! Each member will tackle a segment of the race: one will swim 400 yards, another will bike 12 miles, and the final teammate will complete the 3.1-mile run. It's a fantastic way to experience the thrill of triathlon together!

Kids Competitive Triathlon: Young athletes can showcase their skills in this competitive event, featuring a 25-yard swim, a 1-mile bike ride, and a 0.5-mile run. It's a great opportunity for kids to challenge themselves and enjoy the spirit of competition.

Kids Non-competitive Triathlon: Designed for younger participants who want to have fun without the pressure of competition, this event includes a 25-yard swim, a 1-mile bike ride, and a 0.5-mile run. It's all about participation, enjoyment, and building confidence!

Location:

The Ideal Beach Triathlon takes place in the picturesque setting of Elkhart, IN, where participants can enjoy the beauty of nature while pushing their limits.

Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or a first-time participant, the Ideal Beach Triathlon promises an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, competition, and fun. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to challenge yourself and create lasting memories! Sign up today and be part of this exciting event!

Heart of a Warrior Award

This award is meant to honor Toby Deweese’s personality, character, and ability to overcome adversity. If you or someone you know is competing in the triathlon for the first time or has overcome life challenges to get to the starting line of this year’s race, please nominate them!

Click Here to submit a nomination.

Packet Pickup:

Friday, June 25th from 4-6pm

Ideal Beach Waterpark

52256 Ideal Beach Rd, Elkhart, IN 46514

Saturday, June 27th from 6-7:30am

Ideal Beach Waterpark

52256 Ideal Beach Rd, Elkhart, IN 46514