Syttende Mai Classic Run/Walk

Improving on a Classic

Preparations are underway for the 2025 Syttende Mai Classic, and we think you'll be excited about the updates.

Not only are we changing the routes this year, but we’re also changing the distance. The Syttende Mai Classic is now a Half-Marathon Run and Walk, 5K Run, and 2 Mile ‘lil run. The entire event starts and finishes at Anderson Complex. 

"The Syttende Mai Classic is a cherished tradition, and we're thrilled to be a part of it. We look forward to welcoming participants and spectators alike to create a memorable experience and showcase the potential of this facility to bring people together.” Andie Alexander, Athletics/Activities Director Stoughton Area School District. 

Anderson Complex offers increased parking for the event, on-site concessions, bleachers, bathrooms, and an area large enough for everyone to celebrate the event together. The Syttende Mai Festival is our biggest opportunity to showcase everything Stoughton has to offer, so it makes sense that the Anderson Complex is part of that showcase. 

The race distances were changed based on feedback from our participants, race enthusiasts, and race professionals. Half Marathons are in high demand across the country. Timing our race early in the race season means that we can continue to provide runners with an opportunity to put their training to the test. The half marathon walk and 5k run allow more people to participate in our 52-year tradition.

The Half Marathon and 5k Runs are timed races, but the half marathon walk and 2-mile ‘Lil Run are not. We’ve centralized all race registrations within Run Signup. Registration must be completed by April 17th to secure your race shirt. 

This year’s Half-Marathon runners, walkers, and 5k runners will receive a finisher medal with a new design. The design is inspired by one of the most powerful symbols in Norse Mythology, the Helm of Awe, which is referenced in many ancient poems. In these poems, the bearer of the Helm of Awe symbol was gifted invincibility and went into battle sure of victory. 

The Helm of Awe

I wore before the sons of men

In defense of my treasure:

Amongst all, I alone was strong, 

I thought to myself, 

For I found no power a match for my own. 

-The Poetic Edda. Fáfnismál, stanza 16 translated