Circle the Lake Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K

A Race with a Purpose

• Event Type: Fun, family-friendly, dog-friendly a race with a purpose.
• Cause: All proceeds help improve our lake water quality.
• Previous Year Success: Last year we raised over $32,000 for 3 new aerators to reduce invasive weeds/algae.
• Focus: Promote a healthy fish habitat.

About the Race

• Location: Beautiful views along the shores of Circle Lake in rural Rice County, MN.
• Scenery: Expect to see bald eagles, osprey, deer, ducks, and pelicans.
• Course: Rolling hills on a mix of paved and dirt roads.
• Accessibility: Open to competitive racers, families, dogs, kids, seniors, and earbud friendly.

Course Details

• Historical Route: Follows the same path once traveled by the Jesse James Gang.
• Half Marathon Timing: Held two weeks before the Twin Cities Marathon, ideal for training.
• Challenge: The half marathon is tough with several big hills.
• Support: All races chip-timed with posted mile markers and water/sports drinks available.

Registration Information

• Commemorative T-shirt: Available for all racers registered prior to August 2nd.
• Guarantee: T-shirts cannot be guaranteed for registrations after that date.
• Finisher Medals: Awarded to all finishers, with prizes for male and female winners.
• Deadline: $10 price increase on August 1st at Midnight: register early.

Event Day Details

• Same Day Registration: Runs from 7:00 - 8:15 A.M.
• Start Times: 10K and Half Marathon begin at 8:30 A.M.: 5K starts at 8:35 A.M.
• Weather Policy: Races are rain or shine: no refunds or transfers.
• Post-Race Celebration: Celebrate at Boonies Grill with one complimentary drink.

Charity Partnership

• Event Sponsorship: Sponsored by the Circle Lake Association.
• Community Projects: Proceeds support lake watershed improvement projects.
• Rec Activities: Circle Lake is used for recreation, sports, and by naturalists.
• Website: More details at circlelake.org.

Race Information

• Date: 2026-09-19
• Location: 3625 Millersburg Blvd, Faribault, MN.
• Registration Link: Sign up here.