Mark the Barber's Polar Run/Walk for Life

Event Overview

Join us on January 11, 2026 for Mark the Barber's 5K Run/Walk and 1 mile Run/Walk. This year Mark has chosen Positive Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center as the beneficiary of the proceeds from the event. Positive Alternatives offers women support and help them confirm their pregnancy. They offer free and confidential pregnancy services to help you in your pregnancy journey and beyond. They have two locations to serve you in the Thumb: Caro and Bad Axe. Sign up to donate today to help this great cause in our area!

Event Details

• Date: January 11, 2026
• Location: 138 Maple Valley St, Sandusky, MI
• Finish Line: Diamond Trail
• Packet Pickup: Maple Valley Elementary School

Walk Option

We still have the walk only option for the 5K. This race is for competitive walkers.

Shirt Information

• Shirt Design: Coming soon!
• Shirt Purchase: Order options available: design coming soon.
• Shirt Pickup: Available at Stoliker's or the Polar Run event.
• Order Deadline: By December 31, 2025.

Race Participation

All participants will receive a swag bag and a finisher medal. If you register by 12-31-25 you will also get a Long Sleeve Shirt.

Awards

• 5K Race: Age group awards after the race for various age groups.
• 1 Mile Awards: Top 3 Male and Top 3 Female finishers.
• 5K Walk Awards: Top 3 Male and Top 3 Female finishers.
• All Awards: Given after the finish of both races.

Race Timing

Race time: 2:00 p.m. - 1 Mile Run/Walk and 5K Run/Walk. Starts may be staggered. Event will be timed by Miller Race Management.

Registration Fees

• Early Bird Fee: $20: good through 11:59 p.m. on 11-30-25.
• Regular Fee: $25 until 11:59 p.m. on 12-31-25.
• Late Fee: $30 until Noon on 1-9-26.
• Same Day Registration: $35, beginning at 1:00 p.m. inside Maple Valley Elementary School.

Course Information

The 1 mile course will be on the paved Diamond Trail. The 5K course will utilize the Diamond Trail and city streets, with some dirt roads.

Refreshments

Water, Coffee and Hot Chocolate with snacks will be available at the awards ceremony.

Facilities

• Restrooms: Bathrooms inside school and a Porta-John on site.
• New Facilities: Indoor bathroom facility should be open for use.

Contact and Resources

For more information, visit the official race page: Mark the Barber's Polar Run/Walk for Life.