RUN THE RIVER Since 1974, the beautiful shaded backwoods of the Huron River region provide the setting for the annual Ann Arbor Track Club’s, Dexter to Ann Arbor Half Marathon. Runners will start the half marathon in the picturesque town of Dexter, Michigan and head east for a scenic, rolling …
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RUN THE RIVER
Since 1974, the beautiful shaded backwoods of the Huron River region provide the setting for the annual Ann Arbor Track Club’s, Dexter to Ann Arbor Half Marathon. Runners will start the half marathon in the picturesque town of Dexter, Michigan and head east for a scenic, rolling 13.1 mile course along beautiful Huron River Dr. to the finish in historic Downtown Ann Arbor — a Road Runners Club of America’s top Runner-friendly Community in the United States.
10K OUT & BACK
The 10K is a great race for elite athletes, serious runners and casual runners (and walkers) alike. If you’re looking for a mid-distance race in late spring, look no further than the Dexter-Ann Arbor Run 10K. This out-and-back 10K (6.2 mile) course starts and finishes in downtown Ann Arbor, featuring a beautiful stretch along scenic Huron River Drive in both directions.
5K POINT-TO-POINT
The Athletico 5K is great for runners (and walkers) of all ages and abilities. This 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk is a great way for the whole family to take part in the Dexter-Ann Arbor Runs on a point-to-point route that features a unique start line and scenic views of the Huron River and Downtown Ann Arbor. If you’re looking for a race to get you energized and active, this is the one.
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Take the early speed
I ran a steady pace, held back too much early thinking I'd find it late, but the hills late were just enough to keep me from any free speed I … MORE
I ran a steady pace, held back too much early thinking I’d find it late, but the hills late were just enough to keep me from any free speed I may have had there. It’s a nice event, great scenery and I definitely will do it again. Tough course though for a beginner like me.
Beautiful Trees!
The course was a fantastic tree lined course that was small town / neighborhood at first and then was along tree lined road near the river - you see the … MORE
The course was a fantastic tree lined course that was small town / neighborhood at first and then was along tree lined road near the river – you see the river in the back half of the race.
The race is rolling hills – a couple steeper ones and then a lot of downhill time. There is a hill at the end that was a little unwelcome. One other tip – note the slope of the road as it is banked with curves.
The race transportation was easy to the start – lots of portapotties and easy bag drop. There was water at the start.
A no frills race shirt — lots of cute other shirts to buy at expo though they didn’t have smaller sizes. There were also lots of gels for sale if you need anything!
Overall, highly recommend! Great community feel and a very scenic course with trees (apt for Ann ARBOR). If you’re traveling, don’t sleep on the food scene in Ann Arbor either.
Why is there a hill there?
This year we were greeted with a downpour minutes before the race that turned into light rain through the end of the race. This race is on a beautiful road … MORE
This year we were greeted with a downpour minutes before the race that turned into light rain through the end of the race.
This race is on a beautiful road from Dexter to Ann Arbor and both side of the ride have a slope. Be careful to run center of the road to prevent injury. However if it’s raining be careful of that middle of the road painted line.
More like Dexter-Ann Arbor FUN!
Pros: -Packet pickup is quick and easy. There are not many vendors, so if you're looking for a big-race feel at the expo, you'll be disappointed. But this expo gets … MORE
Pros:
-Packet pickup is quick and easy. There are not many vendors, so if you’re looking for a big-race feel at the expo, you’ll be disappointed. But this expo gets the job done, and the venue is extremely accessible with tons of parking.
-Porta potties are very close to the start line, so you can make a last minute trip, if necessary. Lines weren’t too long (had to wait maybe 5 min. max about 15 min. before the race).
-You’re allowed to wait inside of the middle school prior to the race, which gives the opportunity to sit/stretch/use the bathroom/eat/whatever and set your stuff down.
-Pace groups
-The course is rolling and interesting. Starting and ending in downtown setting while spending the middle section around water/nature makes for a variety of scenery.
-While there are some hills (one around mile 7 and one at the end), the hills are manageable and make you feel more accomplished (who’s afraid of the big bad hill??). There’s enough crowd support at the end to push yourself up the final incline, too, so that helps!
Cons:
-The 2017 race shirt was unremarkable to me. This has been the case for a few years now.
-Not a ton of on-course entertainment, so I’d recommend running with music, if you need something like that.
-Having to take a bus to Dexter (if you live/park in A2) can be irritating, but they run very smoothly and on time.
Overall, fantastic race with a lot of history. Highly recommend running it!