2025 RACE COVERAGE CALENDAR

The Amway River Bank Run is one of the largest and oldest road races in the United States, held annually in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The event takes place along the Grand River and through downtown Grand Rapids, traditionally in early May. This race is also the winner of the Best Weird Distance Fly Award 2024 and Best 10K Fly Award 2024.

The race was first established in 1978 and has grown to become a significant event in the running community. It features multiple race distances, including:

• A 25K (15.5 miles) race, which is the marquee event and serves as the USA 25K Open Championships
• A 10K (6.2 miles) run
• A 5K (3.1 miles) run
• A 5K walk
• Various kids’ events and activities

The 25K course is particularly notable as it’s the only 25K race in the country to host a national championship event. This has attracted elite runners from across the United States and internationally, making it a prestigious race in the running calendar.

The course is known for its scenic route along the Grand River and through various Grand Rapids neighborhoods. Runners experience a mix of urban landscapes and residential areas, with the course featuring some challenging hills, particularly in the second half of the 25K race.

The event typically draws thousands of participants across all its races and brings significant economic impact to the Grand Rapids area. It’s supported by numerous volunteers and spectators who line the course to cheer on the runners. The race also features entertainment along the course and a post-race celebration.

As with many major road races, the event includes a health and fitness expo in the days leading up to the race, where runners can pick up their race packets and visit various vendors related to running and fitness.

Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/GrandRapids/AmwayRiverBankRun

The Dirty Donut stands out as a uniquely exhilarating gravel cycling event that transforms rural dirt roads into a playground of strategy, speed, and sweet rewards. This innovative race offers five challenging distances – 10, 22, 42, 62, and 100 miles – ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every cyclist’s ambition. Winner of the 2024 FLY AWARD of BEST CYCLING RACE, BEST SWAG and BEST BLING, you don’t want to miss this!

What sets this event apart is its dual racing format. For pure speed enthusiasts, the “Sprint” category follows traditional gravel racing rules, where crossing the finish line first claims victory. However, the signature “Donut” category adds a delicious twist to competitive cycling – strategically placed “donut stops” along the route allow racers to deduct five minutes from their final time for each donut consumed. This unique scoring system means victory doesn’t always go to the swiftest rider, but to those who master the delicate balance between pedaling prowess and pastry consumption.

The course winds through scenic countryside on unpaved roads, challenging riders with natural terrain while rewarding them with beautiful views. Whether you’re an elite cyclist gunning for a podium finish in the Sprint division, or a recreational rider aiming to offset your time with well-earned donut breaks, the race embraces all participants.

This family-friendly event embodies the spirit of inclusive competition, where seasoned athletes and casual cyclists alike can find their path to success. The Dirty Donut Race truly lives up to its motto of being “A Race for All of Us,” creating an atmosphere where personal achievement meets pure enjoyment, one mile – and one donut – at a time.

The event has become a celebration of cycling culture, bringing together communities and creating memorable experiences that extend beyond traditional racing boundaries. From the starting line excitement to the final victory celebrations, The Dirty Donut Race proves that sometimes the sweetest victories come with a side of sugar and a whole lot of fun.

Register: https://www.bikereg.com/dirty-donut