KARMA jack
Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races
Presented by Oakland University Credit Union
September 27, 2026 | Oakland University, Rochester Hills
5K Run / 5K Walk • 10K • Kids Race
Join Michigan'sPremier
Fall Race Experience
5K. 10K. Kids Race. OU Pride. Community Impact.
Be a part of something bigger than a run. The Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races is a celebration of movement, legacy, and purpose.
Whether you’re racing, walking, or cheering, you’re helping build a healthier future for our community and for Oakland University student-athletes.
Why This Race?
Most races are just races. . . This one’s different.
The Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races is about more than miles. It’s about movement with purpose. You’ll run (or walk) a beautiful course through the heart of Oakland University’s campus, passing iconic landmarks like Elliott Tower, Meadow Brook Hall, and the O’rena. You’ll be cheered on by students, families, and fellow racers who care about health, wellness, and community.
“This is more than a race. This is a movement rooted in pride, purpose, and community.” - Paul Rice, Oakland University
So whether you’re racing the 10K, jogging the 5K, or watching your kid race Grizz the mascot around the track, know this:
You’re helping build something that lasts.
Events
5k Run/Walk
Kids Run! (ages 10 and under)
Student 5k (Only registrations with an student oakland.edu email will be accepted)
5k Race Day Registration without race shirt
10k Race Day Registration without race shirt
Sponsors
You Run. They Rise.
This race supports more than just finish lines. It supports futures.
1300 participants last year. Goal: 2,000 in 2026
Proceeds directly benefit OU Cross Country / Track & Field student-athletes.
Helps fund many resources critical to our student-athlete development and experience.
What You'll Experience
Smiles | Fun | Coffee
Great prizes | Giveaways | Race photos
Landmarks: Elliott Tower | Meadow Brook Hall | OUCU O'Rena
Music | Photo ops | Activities
Grizzlies Health and Wellness Row | And more!
FREE Kids Race with Grizz the Mascot (age 10 & under)
Course Maps
The Golden Grizzlies 5k and 10k course is a scenic, challenging adventure! Start the race alongside the Elaine Leigh Track and Field Complex and navigate your way through campus. Be ready for some hills! They don't call it Rochester Hills for nothing! You'll run by exciting Oakland University landmarks like the Dodge Mansion and Meadowbrook Amphitheatre for the 5k route and the Elliot Tower along the 10k route.
Become a Sponsor or Vendor
Want your brand front and center at one of Michigan’s most anticipated races?
Hundreds of participants and spectators | Local families, athletes, students, and alumni | A passionate community that values wellness and engagement
