Grandma’s Marathon Weekend Still Going On Virtually for Runners, Fans

So far, almost 3,000 people have submitted their times and many more are expected to do the same this weekend.

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend was supposed to be Grandma’s Marathon, but due to the pandemic, those plans were cancelled. But that doesn’t mean you still can’t be part of the event.

Runners can still take part in a virtual version of the race. So far, almost 3,000 people have submitted their times and many more are expected to do the same this weekend. And there’s no rush to get out and run as organizers will be taking times until July 31st.

“When we cancelled race weekend, we weren’t sure what the climate would be like in terms of where it would be safe for runners to complete their races. So we wanted to make sure we had a really long time frame where runners could submit their time. They can pick which weekend works for them. They could run in the evening or the morning. Anytime, any course, just as long as they’re doing it in a safe manner,” said marketing director Mandi Peterson.

Not only is there a virtual version of the race, but fans can still be involved in the same way they’ve always been each year on the course and down at the finish line in Canal Park.

“A lot of people love race weekend, They live for race weekend. And so we want to keep encouraging them to be involved by submitting photos or videos or chalk art on their sidewalk, and just keeping that energy level up and keep spreading it around the community,” Peterson said.

And for those interested in official Grandma’s Marathon gear, a pop-up shop will be open Friday and Saturday at the Inn on Lake Superior parking lot from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. And for tips on how to run your virtual marathon, head to GrandmasMarathon.com.