Bingo Challenge Races 2026 — Lake Elmo, MN

Ready to take on the BINGO Run challenge? This race is a backyard-style event with a fun twist and a definite finish. The goal is simple: earn bingo and have the fastest lap time to wrap up your race. Each 2.85 mile lap you complete in the 32 minutes or less you get to draw a bingo ball. Then, it’s back out with the group for the next loop. Loops will go off every 32 minutes. If you don’t complete your bingo by the 4th or 8th lap, you'll earn the infamous DNB (Did Not Bingo) status, but don’t worry, you’ll still get a time, distance, and competitor Woodle. You’ll can choose between two bingo card options, depending on how much you want to run: The 3x3 card will get you 8.55 - 11.40 miles depending on when you draw BINGO (Max Loops 4) The 4x4 Card will get you 11.40 - 22.80 miles depending on when and if you draw BINGO (Max Loops 8) You choose which card you want to sign up for. Course and Location: The race starts at the Sunfish Lake Parking Lot in Lake Elmo in the parking lot of the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center. The 2.85 mile trail loops around Sunfish Lake and will be marked with ACR arrows, but be aware of many offshoots and the fact that trails are open to the public. We do our best with signage. This is more single track style hiking trails. Registration Information: Register on the Runsignup page. Prices will increase on the following dates: 3/9/2025, 7/26/2025, and on race day 8/6/2024. Register early to get the best price. Location and Parking: The race starts at the Sunfish Lake Trailhead which shares a parking lot with Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center. Packet Pickup: There is no pre-race packet pick up, though this may change based on registrations. Day-of packet pickup starts at 7 AM and includes your bib number, timing chip, and any event swag. Race Schedule: 7:00 AM - Race Check-In & Day-of Registration opens 8:00 AM - Bingo Race Start (1st Lap) 8:32 AM - 2nd Lap 9:04 AM - 3rd Lap 9:36 AM - 4th Lap (Final Lap for the 3x3 cards) 10:08 AM - 5th Lap (4x4 only) 10:20 AM - Awards for Bingo 3x3 10:40 AM - 6th Lap (4x4 only) 11:12 AM - 7th Lap (4x4 only) 11:44 AM - 8th Lap (4x4 only) 12:00 PM - Awards (time subject to change) Aid Stations: There will be water, Gatorade, and light snacks at the Start/Finish line. Please bring your own water bottle to minimize waste, but a water refill station will be available at the start. Timing and Results: The Bingo Run is a gun-timed race using chips. Each runner must wear a race bib visible at all times, especially when crossing the finish line. Timing is based on a group start. Faster runners should start closer to the start line, while walkers should start near the back of the corral to prevent bottlenecking. Be considerate of other racers by stating when you are passing and moving to the right if your pace slows. Results will be posted on our Runsignup page, and QR codes will be available for immediate result checks at the finish line. Awards and Prizes: Awards will be given to the top 3 overall male and female finishers based on gun time. Race Rules and Guidelines: The trail is open to the public; please be courteous to pedestrians. Pets are not allowed; the trail can get crowded. Your bib must be visible at all times. Post-Race Celebration: The post-race celebration begins as soon as runners cross the finish line, featuring music and light snacks. Spectator Information: The best spot for spectators is at the starting line. There are a few spots along the trail where you can catch your runner and then cut across to see them again. Safety Precautions: The trails are open to the public; be cautious and courteous. This is not a stroller-friendly course due to loose soil, mud, dirt, and hills. No bikes are allowed in the race. Please leave your pets at home. Volunteers Needed: Volunteers receive one free entry to a race of their choice within a year. We always need volunteers; we cannot run the races without you! Email us at hello@athenaclydesdaleracing.com to volunteer. Weather / Cancellation: We know that August can be very hot and Athena Clydesdale Racing and its race directors reserve the right to cancel or delay the event in case of inclement weather. There are no refunds.