Black Toenail Friday Half Marathon

Event Overview

The Black Toenail Friday Half Marathon and 7.5 Miler is a trail running event held at Proud Lake State Park in Commerce Township, Michigan. The event takes place on the Friday following Thanksgiving, offering an outdoor alternative to traditional holiday activities. The courses utilize the wooded trails of the Proud Lake Recreation Area, which feature a mix of forest scenery, lake views, and rolling hills on generally smooth terrain.

Distance Options

Participants can choose from several participation formats:

• 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
• 7.5 Miles
• Virtual Half Marathon
• Virtual 7.5 Mile

The event also includes rucking divisions for both the 13.1 Miles and 7.5 Miles distances. Ruckers carry weighted packs or plate carriers, with a requirement of 20 lbs for those under 150 lbs and 30 lbs for those over 150 lbs. Participants are weighed before the race begins.

Course and Amenities

The trails are well-marked and groomed, suitable for various experience levels. The start and finish area is located at the Modern Campground, which provides convenient parking. Post-race activities include campfires, ramen, and hot cocoa for participants. Standard registration includes a long-sleeve tech shirt and a finisher's medal, though economy packages are available for those who prefer to participate without receiving these items.

Series Participation

This event serves as the sixth and final race in the Trivium Michigan Mega Medal Series. Participants who complete all six races in the series, either in person or virtually, receive medals that connect to form a single larger piece. Virtual options allow runners to complete their distance independently and upload their times to remain eligible for series awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.