Run Stillwater, Inc. has finalized plans for three running races in 2014 with opportunities for everyone from kids to elite runners to experience the St. Croix Valley.
The roster of races begins May 24 with the Stillwater Half Marathon and 5K and continues July 12 with the Lift Bridge Road Race 10-mile, 5K and kids races based in Bayport's Lakeside Park. The season concludes in the fall with the Stillwater Log Run 10-mile, 5K and kids races on Sept. 27. All races are sanctioned and certified by the USA Track and Field Association.
"We're really pleased to be bringing a half marathon back to Stillwater this spring," said Brian Mastel, race director for Run Stillwater. "May 24 is a great timing for anyone planning to run distance races in the summer, including Grandma's Marathon in June." For race details and registration information, go to www.stillwaterhalfmarathon.com.
The half marathon route takes advantage of the Gateway Trail, with a course that runs west and north of town and finishes in Pioneer Park. Runners will be bused to their respective start lines from downtown Stillwater.
Mastel said providing volunteer opportunities for area organizations in return for donations to their organization has been a part of Run Stillwater since its first race in 2012.
"We encourage groups of any size to contact us if they're interested in helping out with things like water stations and the finish line. The time commitment is short — generally just a few hours in the morning — and it's fun," he said. "We're happy to support nonprofit organizations that want to be a part of any of our races."
If interested, e-mail Run Stillwater, Inc. at info@runstillwater.com.
Library to host poetry workshop
The Stillwater Public Library will host Minnesota Poet Laureate Joyce Sutphen for a poetry workshop for writers at all levels of experience who would like the chance to consider the more technical aspects of poetry.
