Polar Bear 5K Prediction Run
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Polar Bear 5K Prediction Run
This event on January 2, 2027 takes place in Rochester, Minnesota at 116 17th Avenue Northwest and is organized by the Rochester Running Club. The distance is a 5K run conducted in a prediction format: each participant selects a target finish time and times their start so they cross the finish line at that target moment. Participants may not use watches or any timing device, the finish-line clock is not visible, and stopping on the course is not allowed. Finishing before the predetermined target time results in disqualification.
Prizes are awarded to the first ten people to cross the finish line; winners receive carved Polar Bear awards. Packet pickup is available at Minnesota Treads before the run. The start and finish are planned on the trail near Minnesota Treads, and organizers intend to use a route that goes to and from Minnesota Treads via Cascade Lake.
Registration fees vary by date and membership status: $20 for club members and $25 for non-members through December 14, 2026; $25 for members and $30 for non-members from December 15, 2026 through January 1, 2027; race-day registration is $30 for members and $35 for non-members. Immediately after the run, award announcements will be made in the Event Center at Charlie's Eatery & Pub, where food and beverages will be available to attendees. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
