What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon starting at 8:00 AM EST
• →5K Run/Walk starting at 8:10 AM EST
• →10K Run starting at 8:20 AM EST

What is the course like for the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

The half marathon follows an out-and-back route that begins and ends at Loy Norrix High School. The course travels west on Kilgore Road, reaches a turnaround point at approximately the halfway mark, and returns along the same route. The course incorporates a blend of paved neighborhood roads and sections of Portage's scenic paved bike trail system, creating a relatively flat to gently rolling winter running experience.

What is the event schedule for the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

• →Half Marathon: 8:00 AM EST (5-hour cutoff)
• →5K Run/Walk: 8:10 AM EST
• →10K Run: 8:20 AM EST

How much does registration cost for the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

• →Early pricing available through January 1, 2026: $55 for the half marathon; $35 for the 5K/10K (with KAR member discounts)
• →Standard pricing through February 21: $75 for the half marathon; $40 for the 5K/10K
• →Race-day registration available with a mobile device required (no paper registration)

What is included with registration for the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

A technical long-sleeve shirt is included with all registrations received by February 8, 2026.

Where can participants pick up their race packets?

• →Saturday, February 21: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM at Loy Norrix High School
• →Saturday extended hours: 4:00–6:00 PM at Mitten Running Company (6290 S Westnedge Ave, Portage)
• →Race morning: 6:30–8:00 AM at the event site

Who hosts the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

The event is jointly hosted by Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) and the City of Portage as a community celebration of winter wellness.

What is the significance of the 2026 Portage Winter Blast?

The event serves as a popular training race for spring marathons in the region, particularly the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon series. It is a well-organized running event that brings together runners of all levels for a winter wellness celebration.