Official Training Group Now Guarantees Entry Into Minnesota’s Largest Marathon

Grandma's Marathon has grown to be a highly popular and large-scale event that is not only the largest marathon in Minnesota, but it consistently ranks among the top marathons in the U.S., attracting over 20,000 participants and tens of thousands of spectators.

It is a major economic driver for the Duluth area, generating tens of millions in economic impact each year. It certainly has its moniker of being a "world-class event with small-town charm."

While Grandma's Marathon is the main event, the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, held the same day, has grown into one of the most popular and largest half marathons in the United States.

Both races sell out, which can be frustrating for those looking to sign up for the fun challenge, but now Grandma's Marathon has announced a new way to not only prepare for one of those races, but also have a guaranteed entry.

Grandma's Marathon Official Training Group Now Guarantees Race Entry

Grandma’s Marathon announced this week that it will again be offering a Twin Ports-based training group ahead of the 2026 race weekend, and this year, it is offering more than support and camaraderie in the months leading up to race day.

Anyone who signs up for the training group will be guaranteed an entry in either the 2026 Grandma’s Marathon or the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon without having to wait in line on October 1, hoping to secure a spot.

The training group opens its registration on Monday, September 1, which is a full month ahead of the event’s normal registration date.

“This is a great chance not only to provide our local runners with the support and expertise needed for their training ahead,” Marketing & PR Director Zach Schneider said, “but also to start the drumbeat of what we believe will be a very exciting and busy registration season, being that we’re celebrating 50 wonderful years of Grandma’s Marathon.”

Who Will Lead The Training Group, And How Often Will It Meet?

Organizers say the training group will be led by USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach Tony Stensland, and it will meet for group training runs three times a week in the Duluth-Superior area starting in January. The goal is to prep local runners for a successful race weekend.

A monthly guest speaker series is also planned for group participants, ranging in topics from areas like nutrition to race day tips and tricks, and group participants will also receive a commemorative running hat from the marathon.

It's important to note that the training group is limited in size and will be operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, registration will open on Monday, September 1, through grandmasmarathon.com.

Training Group Pricing Tiers

• September 1 to October 1: $125
• October 2 to December 31: $150
• January 1 to March 1: $175

IMPORTANT: Prices listed above DO NOT include the price of your race entry. Training group participants will receive a registration code and will pay the normal entry fee at the time of signup.