Events
5K Run Walk
5 Mile Run Walk
The Bear (5K + 5 Mile = both races)
Race Website
Additional race information can be found at https://www.indypolarbear.com/.
Place
Indianapolis, IN US 46225
Description
Saturday, February 22nd - Polar Bear Winter Classic
Irsay Family CityWay YMCA
SJC Racing is proud to continue the tradition of one of the oldest races in Indianapolis: the 43rd Annual Polar Bear Winter Classic. We listened to runner feedback from 2024 and are returning to our roots with a 5K, 5 Mile & The Bear!
This historic race is strategically placed on the calendar during the second half of February to be the first major road race of the year in Indy. The race offers a unique format including a 5K, 5 Mile or The Bear (5K + 5 Mile) The Bear is the challenge that allows you to run both distances, one after the other, for a total of 8.1 miles.
SWAG - All runners registered before February 1 receive a finisher medal and "Wear the Bear" winter hat. New this year, we have an optional Nike performance long sleeve available as an add on during registration. This high quality, moisture wicking shirt can be purchased for a subsidized cost ($25) during registration.
Continuing with tradition, the Polar Bear Winter Classic offers cash prizes. age group awards in all three event distances. Post-race celebration details coming soon...
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
FAQ
- If I am running The Bear, is it one 8.3 mile race?"
- The Bear is a special challenge made up of the existing 5K and 5 Mile races. Run these as two standalone events. For scoring purposes, your times will be combined. To participate in The Bear, you must be able to finish the 5K within 45 minutes in order to make the start of the 5 Mile event.
- Do I have to pick up my packet on Friday? Can I get it on race morning?
- Picking up your race packet on Friday at Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay is highly recommended to avoid lines. Friday packet pickup hours are 4:00 PM-6:30 PM.
- Race Day pickup is also available to all participants. Race day packet pickup is from 7am to 8:15 am
- What's the course like?
- The 5K and 5 Mile use similar, but not identical courses. Both courses utilize typical city streets in and around downtown Indianapolis. The courses is well-marked and supported by volunteers and local public safety.
- Are the courses certified?
- The Courses are not USATF-certified.
- Are walkers allowed?
- Walkers are encouraged to participate! Just note that if you are participating in The Bear (5K + 5 Mile races), you'll need to complete the 5K under 45 minutes from the gun.5 Mile walkers must be able to maintain a 16 minute-per-mile pace.
- How many medals do I earn for running The Bear?
- All participants earn one (1) medal for their effort during the event. 5K runners and walkers will receive theirs when crossing the line after the 5K race. 5 Mile participants and those doing The Bear will receive their finisher medal upon completion of the 5 Mile race.
- Are dogs allowed?
- Dogs are allowed in the 5K race, but not the 5 Mile . To comply with city laws and for the safety of those around you, dogs must be on a leash. We ask that dogs start toward the back. NOTE: Only service dogs are allowed inside the Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay
- I think I won an award! What do I do?
- You can check your finish time and place at the Results Tent, located near the finish line. Age group awards can be claimed at the Results Tent. Please note: age group awards will not be mailed. Top 3 overall female and male finishers in each event will receive their cash awards after the complete results are finalized.
- What if it rains? What if it snows?
- Polar Bears love snow! This race is a "rain or shine" event. Participants are encouraged to use common sense, adjusting for the conditions. That said, we want to have a safe event for both our participants and volunteers. If conditions warrant, a delay or cancellation may be necessary. In the unfortunate event of a cancellation, refunds will not be issued.
- I can no longer participate. Can I get a refund?
- We do not offer refunds or deferrals.
- Is there a host hotel for this event
- Hotel information coming soon.
Directions
MapMyRun Map
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