For more than 40 years, the Irish Jig has marked the start of Michigan’s racing season, consistently being one of the premier 5K experiences. The 2026 race was a turning point. The Irish Jig took a formal shift to raise critical resources addressing the fact that We’re running against a brutal truth: 1 in 2 people will face cancer in their lifetime. That’s not a statistic we’re willing to accept and why we took steps to take the Jig wellbeyond what it's been before. 

As an example of the impact the Jig makes, check out this recent feature from the BBC.  The story highlights the Corewell Health cancer team's work to expand access and prevention throughout the state of Michigan.   This type of prevention work as well as access to advanced therapies and clinical trials benefit from the Jig.  

Plans for 2027 are well underway.  We're working on a revised race course, shifting the Kids Gold Ribbon Run (benefitting Helen DeVos Children's Hospital) to the roads with a half mile course, adding a finisher medal, expanding the Health and Wellness Expo to feature speakers and more vendors, and planning expanded awards and post race festivities.  And yes, the shirt and swag is going to be can't miss.