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Name:
Running Opener
Distance:
5K Walk/Run & 10K Run & 1K Fun Run
Location:
1615 Phalen Drive E, Saint Paul, MN 55106
Date:
April 7, 2012
Time:
9:00 am for 10K, 9:07 am for 5K, 10:15 am for the Fun Run
Fee:
Late RegistrationOnline Registration Closes Tuesday, April 3rd, 6:00pm If you would like to register for the Running Opener after these dates please go to the: Or Registration Table (By Start Line) Race Information
Participant t-shirts are by A4 for sizing chart click here. The Running Opener Run will again have the Minnesota Pacers Pace Team for the 2012 10K Run. If you want more information on this exciting free offer, click here.
Photos2010 RGB Photo Gallery on SmugMug
2011 Charities Challenge Slideshow
Check out the Running Opener slideshow compiled
Parking
There are many parking lots in the Lake Phalen park system on the west side. Directions and parking areas are designated on the Directions/Parking link. If no parking is available in the lots, street parking is allowed in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Course Information
The trail around the lake is fairly flat with only a few small hills. There will be mile markers at every mile and water stops on each side of the lake. Please come and try our great course which will surely be a must on your yearly calendar of events! For 2011, we have the Minnesota Pacers helping to pace the 10K runners. Please visit the Training tab for more information on this great new opportunity!!
Background
This exciting spring race is in its 11th year of kicking off the running season for people in the Metro area. The Running Opener has always been in a central metropolitan location and makes for an opportune start to the 2012 year for runners.
Race Awards
Awards will be given to the top 3 male and female runners in each age category: 19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & up. Award ceremonies will immediately follow the race near the start/finish line in the park. Must be present to win.
Top runners for 2011:
Race Success
This has been a very popular spring race with runners of all age groups. Final Stretch is working hard to make this an even better race for 2012! 2012 Anticipated Participation Level - 600 Runners 2011 Participattion Level - 475 (rain) 2010 Participation Level – 520 Runners 2009 Participation Level – 370 Runners (rain)
Race Benefits
Charities Challenge Tentative next race date:
April 6, 2013
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The race was moved to St. Paul in 2008. We have found that the runners preferred this new location. The race is now run around Lake Phalen, just northeast of downtown St. Paul, off I-35E and Maryland Ave/Wheelock Pkwy (see 
This is a spectacular course with the 5K completing one lap around Lake Phalen and the 10K completing two laps. Both courses are certified and both will be fast. The great thing about these two courses is that they will be held on the park trails around the lake. Therefore, you will not be crossing any streets or have to deal with any traffic or motorists!!!