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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, according to NDSF information. Run with Heart and Sole is a Minot-based organization dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening community relationships through quality races and fitness events.
The 2026 overall male winners were Ben Martin, Minot, first; Holter Bridwell, Bismarck, second; and Jake Jenkins, Minot, third. The 2026 overall female winners were Danielle Turk-Bly, Burlington, first; Olivia Brown, Minot, second; and Sarah Petersen, Bowbells, third.
Winners received tickets to the Niko Moon concert at the fair. Youth participants were recognized with prizes provided by Run with Heart and Sole.
This year’s event welcomed 634 registered participants. Of those, 581 runners and walkers crossed the starting line. Twenty states were represented, and 100 participants were 13 or younger and 24 were 63 or older. One of the most inspiring participants was an 87-year-old runner from Florida, who selected the NDSF's Run the Route 5K as his North Dakota race in his quest to complete a race in all 50 states.
“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, NDSF general manager. “We’re grateful to the entire Run with Heart and Sole team for organizing another outstanding event that promotes health, community and fun."