The first race of the spring season is right around the corner and this year, it will look a lot different than the races of the past - literally! The annual Fitger's 5K is coming up later this month and it will have a new (and very scenic) course this year, along with a few new initiatives.

The Fitger's 5K takes place on Saturday (April 22nd) at 9 a.m. The race kicks off at Fitger's along Superior Street, hence the name. However, this year, there will be a new course that will take racers on a scenic tour of the downtown Duluth area.

Racers will trek towards the DECC and wrap around the downtown waterfront. The race will finish behind Fitger's on the Lakewalk. This new course will be even more scenic than the past course offering more lake views and plenty of chances to see Duluth's iconic sights.

The new course is not the only change to this year's popular 5K. There will also be some some new initiatives because the race falls on Earth Day this year. Organizers plan to make this a zero-waste event in honor of the holiday.

KOOL 101.7 logo
Get our free mobile app

Here are a few of the ways organizers are implementing these new zero-waste initiatives this year:

  • Shirts for runners made with recycled polyester
  • Using reusable cups at the water stations and finish line
  • Compostable treats at the finish line, including bananas
  • Waste sorting stations
  • Flower boxes for age division winners

As for registering for the race, you might want to register as soon as you can if you haven't already! The race will cap out at 1,500 participants. The race is $45 bucks for adults and $15 for ages eighteen and under. The fee covers your shirt and medal.

If you choose not to register online, you can register at Fitger's on Friday, April 21st from noon to 6 p.m. and again on race morning from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Now that spring is here, you might as well get outside and enjoy it and this is a great way to do so.

14 Tips To Help First-Timers Train For Grandma's Half Marathon

Is Grandma's Half Marathon on your bucket list? The popular race is a huge part of Duluth culture and if you are thinking of taking part some day, here's a good place to start.

19 Fun Facts About Grandma's Marathon Weekend

More From KOOL 101.7