This year marks the 50th running of Grandma’s Marathon, a milestone that means so much to the runners, volunteers, staff, and spectators who return to the North Shore year after year. Alongside the full marathon, the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon is celebrating its 36th year. Half marathon runners run the same iconic stretch along Scenic Highway 61 beside Lake Superior before finishing in Canal Park.
I’m excited to be part of the 50th anniversary of Grandma’s Marathon this year. Over the years I’ve run the half 10 times and the full marathon once. I didn’t even start running until I was in my 30s, and the half marathon quickly became the distance that fit best in my life. Between work, family, and everything else that fills a busy schedule, training for 13.1 miles is something I can realistically make time for.
When someone asks if you’re running Grandma’s, it’s common to hear people say they’re “just running the half.” That word just shows up a lot. There is nothing “just” about running 13.1 miles. The miles are real. The training is real. Preparing for a half marathon still takes time and commitment. Finishing 13.1 miles in Canal Park is something to be proud of.
Running the half still means you’re part of everything that makes Grandma’s Marathon weekend special. You still run along Lake Superior. You still feel the energy building as you head toward Duluth. One of the best parts of the entire weekend is the spectators. From homemade signs to cowbells to volunteers cheering for every runner who comes through, the support along the course is something special. The views, the course, the volunteers, and the people lining the route are a big part of why I keep coming back to Duluth.
Half marathon runners actually get something pretty special too. Since the half starts about an hour before the full marathon, spectators are already lining the course waiting for the marathon leaders to come through. That means half runners get to run through crowds that are already gathered and excited to cheer. As someone who usually finds myself toward the back of the pack, I can say the support still feels just as strong. Whether you’re running the half or the full, fast or slow, people show up and cheer for everyone.
So this year, as the full marathon celebrates its 50th year, many of us will be lining up for the half. It’s 13.1 miles. Still the same race weekend. Still the same community that makes Grandma’s Marathon special. We’re running the half, but still celebrating the full.
Carrie Alajoki
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Favorite Grandma’s Marathon memory: I have so many memories, which is exactly why I love being a Grambassador and sharing all things Grandma’s. My newest favorite has to be running the William A. Irvin 5K with my 8-year-old last year. He was so proud of himself. At one point he said, “Mom, look at me, I am the baby of the family and here I am with you.” That moment is one I’ll never forget.
A quote that guides, inspires, or embodies your training, racing, or life: My favorite quote is “I’m where I belong sir” from the Top Gun Maverick movie. For me, that means the back of the pack. It’s where I find community, grit, and joy in running. My focus is on showing up, staying steady, and reminding others that every runner, every pace, and every finish line matters.
Songs that must be on your running playlist: “This Is Me” and “From Now On” from The Greatest Showman always give me a boost, and Sia’s Unstoppable is a must-have. I mix in Calvin Harris’ Feel So Close, plenty of Pitbull, and some Eminem. Add in country, 80’s rock, and current hits — my playlist is as all-over-the-map
Reasons you wouldn’t run outside: I honestly don’t have a reason NOT to run outside, unless there’s lightning. I run through just about everything else. Cold winter days? Bundle up and go. Piles of snow? I’ve got pictures of me out there covered head to toe after a storm. Summer heat doesn’t bother me either. In fact, my favorite runs are around 2:00 in the afternoon when it’s the hottest part of the day. I’ve got plenty of photos from runs in 80–90 degree weather. I wouldn’t suggest it for long training runs, but I love a hot afternoon short run — it’s just part of the fun of running outside year-round.
Advice to other runners: Grandma’s is an event for every runner. The spectators and community will cheer you on like you’re in first place. My best advice, whether it’s at Grandma’s or any other race, is to run your own race. Don’t compare yourself to others. Your journey, your pace, and your finish line are what matter