For local running enthusiasts, there are few races they look forward to more than the annual Lift Bridge Road Race, held this year July 23. The course begins at the beautiful Lakeside Park in Bayport, Minn., winding its way through the city’s scenic downtown before finishing along the banks of the St. Croix River.
Runners can choose to complete either a 5K or 10-mile race, with personalized awards given to the top three finishers in each age group and participatory medals for every finisher. For 10-mile route runners, the Minnesota Pacers pace team will be on hand to help participants run their personal records. There will be water stations along each route to keep runners hydrated, along with food and beverages available at the finish line.
Most of the event staff is made up of volunteers from local nonprofits, who are donating their time on race day in exchange for a contribution to their organization.
Both races begin and end at Lakeside Park, so friends and family members can cheer on their competitors as they depart from the start and cross the finish line. For those a little too young for the longer races, a Kids’ Run will be held in the park.
The Lift Bridge Road Race is part of a three-race series put on by Run Stillwater, a group founded by Stillwater native Ryan Bevens with the goal of bringing family-friendly running events to the St. Croix Valley area. In addition to the July race, the series includes the Stillwater Half-marathon/5K in May and the Log Run 5K and 10-mile race in September.
Lift Bridge Road Race
July 23 $40–$55. 8 a.m. 10-mile start time, 5K starts at 8:20 a.m. Lakeside Park
