Maple Grove, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, Feb. 17-18 will host the 10th annual Kidarod adventure race for kids and families at Fish Lake Regional Park.

Kidarod, the nation’s largest winter adventure race for kids ages 5 to 17, includes trail running, hill climbing, hiking, obstacles, sliding and more. This year’s event is presented by Cargill and includes Nighttime Glow Racing on Feb. 17 from 4-7 p.m. and a full day of racing on Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adults may also participate in the race if registered with a kid.

While many winter events in the Twin Cities have been disrupted due to warm temperatures, Kidarod will take place regardless of the weather. “Weather-wise, we’ve seen it all – cold temperatures in the teens, record warm temperatures in the 60s and even a blizzard – and in every case we were able to provide a great experience for participants,” said Betsy Grams, vice president of adventure for YMCA of the North. “We have plans in place with safety as our first priority and are ready to adapt to any weather conditions. We are excited to offer families an activity they and their kids can enjoy – with snow or without!”

Kidarod is part of an adventure race series partnership between YMCA’s Adventure Lab, Three River Parks District and Y Adventure. The event will also feature winter activities, including a chance to meet a team of husky sled dogs. To learn more and register, visit www.ymcanorth.org/adventure/experiences/kidarod

“We are thrilled to provide safe, unique adventure opportunities for kids and families,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “When we empower young people to develop healthy habits early, we set them up for future success.”

WHO:
YMCA of the North Adventure Lab and Three Rivers Parks District

WHAT:
10th annual Kidarod

WHERE:
Fish Lake Regional Park, 14900 Bass Lake Road, Maple Grove, MN 55311

WHEN:

  • Feb. 17 from 4-7 p.m.
  • Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 168 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities. The 29 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.