MINOT, N.D. – On Saturday, July 18th, Hundreds of runners and walkers kicked off their North Dakota State Fair experience by participating in the annual Run the Route 5K, presented by Run with Heart and Sole. The family-friendly event once again brought together participants of all ages and abilities for a unique opportunity to race to the fairgrounds before the gates opened to the public.
Run with Heart and Sole, a Minot-based organization dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening community relationships through quality races and fitness events, organized this year’s event.
The 2026 Run the Route 5K continued to grow in popularity with impressive participation from across the country. This year’s event welcomed:
- 634 registered participants
- 581 runners and walkers who crossed the starting line
- 100 participants ages 13 and under
- 24 participants age 63 and older
- 20 states represented
One of the day’s most inspiring participants was an 87-year-old runner from Florida, who selected the North Dakota State Fair’s Run the Route 5K as his North Dakota race while working toward his goal of completing a race in all 50 states.
Overall winners received tickets to the Niko Moon concert at the 2026 North Dakota State Fair, while youth participants were recognized with special prizes provided by Run with Heart and Sole.
The 2026 overall winners were:
Overall Male
- 1st Place – Ben Martin, Minot, N.D.
- 2nd Place – Holter Bridwell, Bismarck, N.D.
- 3rd Place – Jake Jenkins, Minot, N.D.
Overall Female
- 1st Place – Danielle Turk-Bly, Burlington, N.D.
- 2nd Place – Olivia Brown, Minot, N.D.
- 3rd Place – Sarah Petersen, Bowbells, N.D.
“The Run the Route 5K has become a great tradition that brings families, runners, and first-time participants together to kick off the Fair,” said Craig Rudland, General Manager of the North Dakota State Fair. “We’re grateful to the entire Run with Heart and Sole team for organizing another outstanding event that promotes health, community, and fun.”
The North Dakota State Fair extends its sincere appreciation to Lindsay and Run with Heart and Sole for their continued partnership and dedication. Their commitment to building community through fitness has made Run the Route one of the Fair’s most anticipated annual traditions.
The Fair also extends a special thank you to Midco for sponsoring a table of swag and giveaways for participants. Additional thanks go to Northern Bottling Co for generously donating nearly 600 bottles of water to help keep runners hydrated before and after the race.
The North Dakota State Fair congratulates all of this year’s participants for their courage, determination, and great attitudes. We look forward to seeing everyone back in the race again next year!
About North Dakota State Fair
The North Dakota State Fair, held annually in Minot, North Dakota, has been a cherished tradition for
decades and remains the state’s premier summer event. With a diverse range of activities, exhibits,
competitions, and entertainment, the Fair draws over 350,000 visitors each year, making it North
Dakota’s largest annual gathering. For more information, visit ndstatefair.com.
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Contact Information
Charlene Ratliff North Dakota State Fair (701) 857-7620 char@ndstatefair.com
