Kayak, paddleboard, walk or run your way through the Sprint and Splash Festival, returning to Lake St. Clair Metropark on Saturday, June 15, 2019. Henry Ford Hospital Macomb presents this annual day of fun, now in its eighth year, which celebrates and promotes Lake St. Clair – all while raising funds for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.
“This event began as a way to raise money for organizations that support Macomb County’s natural resources,” says Amanda Minuado from the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development. “We were also looking for a way to bring awareness to the great recreational asset that is Lake St. Clair.”
And that’s exactly what they’ve done. Over the last seven festivals, they’ve seen continuous growth. More than 400 people are expected to participate in this family-friendly event in Macomb County. Each participant will receive a complimentary breakfast after completing the race, plus a swag bag, finisher medal and T-shirt.
There are a variety of events to choose from for different levels of athleticism. All races start at 9 a.m., and events are as follows:
- A family-friendly 5K run or walk
- Individual Duathlon, which is a 5K run and a two-mile paddle (participants may use a kayak or stand-up paddleboard)
- Duathlon Relay, which is a two-person team event where one person runs the 5K and the other completes the two-mile paddle (participants may use a kayak or stand-up paddleboard)
- 2-mile kayak
- 2-mile stand-up paddle
- 6-mile stand-up paddle (this event is for experienced racers only)
“This event is geared toward families, and although there are serious competitors, many people come out just to experience the lake and get a little exercise,” Minuado says. “The Beach Village and breakfast tent provides a fun and laidback atmosphere, and after the race, people are encouraged to stay at Lake St. Clair Metropark and enjoy the beach or splash pad. The 5K Run is a great option for young kids and walkers with strollers.”
Even if you don’t plan to participate in any of the races, stop by to watch the fun unfold, enjoy live music, food, shopping and more – beginning at 8:30 a.m..
Registration for the Sprint and Splash Festival is now open and will remain open until Tuesday, June 11. You can register on-site if the races are not sold out.
Prices are as follows:
- 5K run/walk: $35
- Individual Duathlon: $45
- Duathlon Relay: $80
- 2-mile kayak: $35
- 2-mile stand-up paddle: $35
- 6-mile stand-up paddle: $45
Note: These prices will increase on May 13, 2019. Entry fees are non-refundable.
In addition to the registration fee, there is a $10 vehicle entry fee for Lake St. Clair Metropark on the day of the event.
Kayaks and paddleboards will not be included in this event. If you plan to participate, you must bring your own kayak or paddleboard – or reach out to Great Lakes Surf Shop or Simple Adventures Watersports to reserve one to use during the event. Representatives from each spot will be stationed near the beach to help you the morning of the race. Contact each individual retailer for prices and additional details.
To learn more, or to register online, visit the Sprint and Splash website.
FFor more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
