Mishka Vertin

Open Board

I’ve been lucky to have gotten to know the TC running community well over the past six years thanks to working and running with Mill City Running and Mile in My Shoes, a local nonprofit spreading the transformative power of running to people experiencing homelessness. I’ve been a runner for 20+ years, since the New York Marathon ran by my first apartment and I cried watching every last runner – then signed up for a running group the next day. The physical and social benefits of running have shaped my life – I met my life partner in a running group! I am passionate about making running accessible to ALL people. My current running journey – trying to get my running groove back as a new mom.

Running has long been at the center of my life, personally & professionally. With a Master’s in social work, sharing the power of running with folks who may not see themselves as traditional “runners” – or have the resources to get started – has become my life’s work. Personally, making running fun for everyone through wacky events is my jam. From donut runs and brewery runs to midnight races and running in costumes I love nothing more than to make running fun for people who think they hate it!

I love Run Minnesota’s passion for getting all types of people engaged in the running community and I would love to use my event-planning skills and community connections to continue and expand on that work.

Perry McGahan

Open Board

I started running relatively late in life with the encouragement of my daughter Heather and the support of long time Run Minnesota member Tim O’Brien. In 2013 I joined the Run Minnesota spring marathon training class to prepare for my first marathon and have participated in every class since then. I enjoy the training provided by the Run Minnesota coaches as well as the friendships that have developed through the social aspects of the class. With the help of the Run Minnesota community I have run races from 1 to 100 miles including the Grand Prix series, sixteen marathons and five ultra marathons.

Through Run Minnesota I have served as a team leader in the marathon training classes, a member of the program committee, and a participant in the strategic planning sessions. I served on the board of directors of Dan Patch Day, Inc. in Savage MN for eight years and provided leadership to Boy Scout Troop 331 in Prior Lake MN for eleven years as treasurer and committee chair.

As a board member, I plan on focusing on programs and activities that support new runners as well as social programs that build an inclusive community between all runners.

Diana Jacks

Treasurer 

Diana Jacks is a Tax Manager at Boulay, PLLP with a partnership tax focus where she provides tax compliance and consulting services for real estate, manufacturing and construction, and private equity clients.

Diana joined Run Minnesota to give back to the running community in hopes that others will too discover their passion for the sport.  Diana enjoys time spent on the trails whether its running, hiking, or backpacking and aspires to one day be an Abbott Six Star Finisher.

City of Lakes Half Marathon

City of Lakes Half Marathon

Run the scenic parkways around Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska!

The Jeff Winter City of Lakes Half Marathon is the USATF Minnesota Half Marathon Championship. It has been bringing together people who love running for over 60 years. Circling Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska in South Minneapolis providing striking views for runners and spectators.  

This USATF-certified course offers stunning views and a fast, flat route. It’s perfect for both seasoned runners and first-timers. The course is limited to 1,800 participants and it will sell out. Register early to secure your spot, save, and receive exclusive perks.

What is Included

  • Free race photos will be available for download. Make sure your bib number is visible so we can identify you!
  • Finisher pint glass.
  • A USATF-Certified, flat, and fast course.
  • Pacers: Available for goal times from 1:30 to 3:00.
  • Awards: Top 3 in Men, Women, and Non-Binary categories receive cash prizes.
  • Cheerful crowds and community vibes.
  • The satisfaction of supporting nonprofits that strengthen the Minneapolis area.

Como Wednesday Relays

Como Park Relays

Since 1974

Wednesdays in August

Free community running event

This series of races are a great way to get in shape and improve your fitness. All level of runners are encouraged to compete and have fun. If you don’t have a partner, just show up early and we will find you one!

Location: At the intersection of 

Como/Horton Ave. & Lexington Pkwy., St. Paul. 

Sign up opens at 6:15 P.M.

Start: 6:30 P.M. Kids Race. 6:45 P.M. 2-Person Relay

2024 Schedule

August  7 – 8 x 1000 meters

August 14 – 6 x 1 mile

August 21 – 10 x 1000 meters

August 28 – 8 x 1 mile

Results will be posted here

(give us a day, please. we do it the old-fashioned way)

Relay runners must register to start. Registration is free and available onsite starting at 6:15.

Kids race participants do not need to register. Parents are welcome to run with their kids. 

Make a donation here to support the Como Relays! 

This race is supported by Run Minnesota Membership! Become a member of Run Minnesota starting at just $35.00 a year.

Wirth Trail Classic

Wirth Trail Classic

4 miles

Theodore Wirth Park
Minneapolis, Minnesota

FREE Community Race 

Location: Theodore Wirth Park. Park at the Wirth Beach Pavilion. Walk to Check-In at the Quaking Bog Parking Lot. (no parking available here on race day)

Times: Check-In opens at 7:30 a.m. 

Kids Trail 1/4 or 1/2 Mile: 8:00 a.m.

Trail Classic 4 Mile: 8:15 a.m.

Race Course: A scenic yet challenging 1 mile loop(hopefully muddy!)

Registration Information

This is a free community running event and race registration is open to ALL.  

Preregistration for this event is required. Race day registration will be open if space is available.

Beginning Running

Beginning Running with Run Minnesota is an 8-week in person group training program designed to prepare you to run 3 to 6 continuous miles or compete in a 5K or 10K race.  It is developed to encourage those who are just starting their running journey or are newer to running and who are seeking the support of a running community with informed training from a certified running coach. 

2021 Tentative Dates coming soon…

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Group Training

Gain confidence, security, and camaraderie with the support of a training group. All of our training programs are lead by certified coaches. Read more about our different group training options below!

Run Minnesota Member Benefit: Member Pricing on Group Training



Marathon Training

This Run Minnesota Training program is designed to prepare you for a fun and successful marathon! Led by certified coaches, our group …



Half Marathon Training

The Run Minnesota Half Marathon group training program is designed to prepare you for a fun and successful Half Marathon! Led by …


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