2026 Jared Anez Eagle Lake Race Series

Welcome to the 9th Annual Jared Anez Eagle Lake Race Series!

The race will take place on August 1, 2026, at 2701 30th ST NE, Willmar, MN. For registration and more information, visit this link.

The Morning's Events Include:

• Half Marathon: 13.1 miles.
• 5K Run/Walk: Open to all participants.
• Kids Fun Run: For kids 10 and under.
• Bean Bag Tournament: Join in the fun even if you aren’t running!

An Ice Cream Truck will be on site again this year!

New for 2026:

• Race T-shirt Purchases: Available online until July 18.
• Store Access: Use menu on computer or dropdown on mobile to order.
• Limited Availability: Some t-shirts will be available at packet pick-up and on race day.
• Reminder: T-shirts included with your 1/2M or 5K registration.

Half Marathon Details:

• Course Length: 13.1 miles.
• Glacial Lakes Championship: Points awarded to official finishers.
• Finish Time: Supported for 3 hours: self-supported after.
• Awards: Available for overall and age group finishers.

7:00 AM Half Marathon Start

5K Details:

• Participants: Welcome as runners or walkers: strollers or wagons are welcome.
• No Pets: Please do not bring pets.
• Race T-shirt: Included with race packet (guaranteed if registered by July 18).
• Start Time: 8:15 AM for the 5K.

No Virtual Options:

The 2026 Half Marathon and 5K do not have virtual options. Please consider donating or purchasing a race t-shirt to show your support.

Kids Fun Run Details:

• Eligibility: For kids 10 and under.
• Time: Free run starts at 9:00 AM.
• Finish Line: All kids run through the finish line arch.
• Registration: Not required, but sign up for the free kids fun run is welcome.

Bean Bag Tournament:

• Eligibility: Open to 2-person teams: register by August 1 if possible.
• Entry Fee: $30 for a team.
• Tossing Time: Begins around 8:15 AM.
• Weather Plan: Tournament held indoors in the Big Red Gym if necessary.

About Jared Anez:

Jared Anez was a father, husband, local agriculture business owner, school board chairman, and an active member of the Willmar community who passed away unexpectedly in March of 2017. He was passionate about education, family, faith, and a healthy, active lifestyle. We honor his legacy and the Anez Family's commitment to education and community with this race series.

Scholarship Funding:

Proceeds from the race fund scholarships for high school students pursuing post-secondary education in STEM-related fields. Last year, the Jared Anez Memorial contributed $11,000 to the scholarship programs at Willmar High School and New London-Spicer High School. In total, $88,000 in scholarships has been awarded over the past eight years, thanks to the support of community sponsors, donors, volunteers, and all participants.