New Mai Blumenlauf (May Flower Run) added to Leavenworth’s Maifest lineup; race features 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances on a spectator-friendly circuit course
(LEAVENWORTH, Wash.) – The Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its presenting sponsorship of the new Mai BlumenLauf (May Flower Run), a series of spectator-friendly running events that will take to Leavenworth’s downtown streets and riverfront trails on Sunday, May 12, in conjunction with town’s annual month-long Maifest celebration.
A fresh new concept designed by TedDriven, who has been using running events as a means to support cancer research since 2005, Mai BlumenLauf features three distances ranging from casual to competitive. The USA Track & Field sanctioned courses will take place in a unique and spectator-friendly circuit format, with the 5k run consisting of one lap, the 10k run consisting of two laps, and the half marathon consisting of four laps plus a separate prologue loop. Half marathoners will start first at 8 a.m., followed by 10k racers at 9 a.m. and 5k runners at 9:05 a.m.
In addition to passing through the Bavarian-themed streets of downtown Leavenworth and along Front Street Park, the race circuit also takes runners along the Wenatchee River and through Waterfront Park, Blackbird Island, and Enchantment Park.
“The addition of Mai BlumenLauf only sweetens the pot for both locals and visitors during what many already consider to be one of the most beautiful times of the year in Leavenworth,” says Ernest Palmer, Director of Events and Entertainment for Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce. “There are very few if any occasions when runners and walkers have the downtown streets and riverfront trails of Leavenworth all to themselves like they will during Mai BlumenLauf. If that alone isn’t reason enough to sign up, the added benefit of raising crucial funds for TedDriven and Cascade Medical Foundation certainly is.”
In the 5k race, 100 percent of every registration will directly benefit the Cascade Medical Foundation, which raises funds to improve the care and well-being of Upper Valley residents through the purchase of medical equipment for Cascade Medical. Prizes will be awarded in each distance for the best costumes celebrating MaiFest, blooming flowers, and the full commencement of spring in Leavenworth. Every finisher will receive a classic race “cowbell” to commemorate their accomplishment, with awards being handed out for overall male and female podiums plus age group podiums.
The Leavenworth Mai BlumenLauf is one of three races organized by TedDriven, including the Wenatchee Marathon on April 20, and the Leavenworth Marathon on Oct. 5.
For more information, course maps, or to register for the Leavenworth Mai BlumenLauf, please visit www.teddriven.com/leavenworth-mai-blumenlauf. For more information about the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, please visit https://www.leavenworthchamber.org.