KARMA jack
Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races
Presented by Oakland University Credit Union
September 27, 2026 | Oakland University, Rochester, MI
5K Run / 5K Walk • 10K • Kids Race
Join Michigan's Premier
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.
2026 Festival of Races Events
5k Run/Walk
Kids Run (Ages 10 and Under)
Student 5k (Only Registrations With an Oakland.edu Email Will Be Accepted)
5k Run/Walk (No T-Shirt Included)
10k Run (No T-Shirt Included)
All Levels Sponsors
You Run. They Rise.
This race supports more than just finish lines. It supports futures.
1,300 participants last year. Goal: 2,000 in 2026
Proceeds directly benefit OU Cross Country / Track & Field student-athletes.
This festival 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)
The Course
The Golden Grizzlies 5k and 10k course is a scenic, challenging adventure! Start the race near our Human Health Building and navigate your way through campus. Be ready for some hills! They don't call it Rochester Hills for nothing!
You'll pass by exciting Oakland University landmarks like the Dodge Mansion and the Elliot Tower. You will finish your run along Bear Lake as you head into our post-race party zone!
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
5K, 10K, and Kids Race Courses
Oakland Alumni: We Want You to Come Home!
Connect again as you support the development of future Golden Grizzlies!
New Meadow Brook Hall Medal for 2026!
Year 2 of the Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races medal series pays homage to Meadow Brook Hall, one of Oakland University's most historical landmarks.
Whether you choose the Kids Race, 5K, or 10K, you will take home a collectible medal inspired by one of Oakland University's most treasured landmarks.
See the 2026 Race T-Shirt!
This black athletic-material tee features a custom skyline graphic inspired by Oakland University's beautiful campus and the landmarks that make race day unforgettable.
Wear it beyond the finish line as a reminder of your miles, your campus, and your Golden Grizzlies pride.
