Sour Grapes
Established in 2001

The Sour Grapes half & half run first started in 2001. A group of runners were unable to secure a spot in the Grandma's Marathon for that year. As a result, they decided to organize a run that would be fun, challenging and a means to enjoy the company of other enthusiastic runners; hence, the birth of Sour Grapes half & half. This years races include a half marathon run, a 10.55K run/walk, a kids mile run, and a kids half mile run.

Proceeds from the event are donated to the Northland Arboretum, a non-profit organization.

Race Location

The Sour Grapes Half & Half is held at the Northland Arboretum, 14250 Conservation Drive, Brainerd, MN 56401. Located in the heart of the lakes country in Brainerd/Baxter, Minnesota, The Northland Arboretum offers more than 540 acres of Green Space, including a Norway Pine Plantation, gardens, flower beds and over 20 Kilometers of trails. For more specific directions, click on the 'Directions' menu option at the top of the screen.

Registration

For online and mail in registration, click the Register menu option at the top of the page. Mailed Registrations must be received at the arboretum by Thursday, June 6th. Online Registration closes at midnight, Thursday, June 6th. See below for late and race day registration times. Note that registrations are limited to the first 500 adult registrants.

Chip Timing

The Half Marathon Run and the 10.55 K Run/Walk will be chip timed by Pickle Events.

Course Description

The half marathon and 10.55K run courses traverse the beautiful, but challenging terrain of central Minnesota. The race course is a 10.55K loop. The half marathoners will complete the loop twice. The terrain includes some uneven ground, sandy soil and moderately challenging hills. Half marathoners will pass water stops 7 times. Those running or walking the 10.55 K will pass water stops 3 times.

Awards

All participants will receive a unique finisher token. T-shirts are included for all who register by June 1 and as available for those who register after June 1. Race Awards will be presented in the downstairs room at the Arboretum. Children's awards to the top 3 male and female finishers in each race will take place at about 9:30 am; Adult awards at approximately 10:30 am for the 10.55K and 11:00 am for the half marathon. Adult awards go to the top 3 overall male and female finishers in each race. Age group awards go to the top 3 males and females in the following age groups: 0-15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70+. You must be present to receive your award or have someone pick it up for you. Awards will not be mailed.