44th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic
- Date Sat 28th February 2026
- Time 8:30AM EST
- Location Indianapolis, Indiana
- Price $43.40 - $54.00
- Races 6 races
- Distances 5km, 5 Mile
Event summary
This historic event marks the first major road race of the year in Indy, and it's the perfect way to kick off your running season. Sign up before February 1 to earn an exclusive finisher medal and a stylish "Wear the Bear" winter hat! With cash prizes and age group awards up for grabs in all race categories, there's plenty of motivation to lace up your running shoes. Don’t miss out on the post-race celebration inside the Fowling Warehouse, where you'll enjoy a festive atmosphere with fellow runners. Grab your friends and family, and get ready to embrace the winter spirit at the Polar Bear Winter Classic!
Organiser's Description
_NEW LOCATION! - FOWLING WAREHOUSE INDIANAPOLIS_
SJC Racing is proud to continue the tradition of one of the oldest races in Indianapolis: the 44TH ANNUAL POLAR BEAR WINTER CLASSIC.
THIS YEAR WILL FEATURE A NEW LOCATION STARTING FROM THE FOWLING WAREHOUSE!
This historic race is strategically placed on the calendar during the second half of February to be the first major road race of the year in Indy. The race offers a unique format including a 5K, 5 Mile or _THE BEAR (5K + 5 MILE)_ The Bear is the challenge that allows you to run both distances, one after the other, for a total of 8.1 miles.
SWAG - All runners registered before February 1 receive a finisher medal and "Wear the Bear" winter hat. We also have an optional long sleeve and hoodie available as an add on during registration or directly from the race store.
Continuing with tradition, the Polar Bear Winter Classic offers cash prizes. age group awards in all three event distances. Post-race celebration will be inside at the Fowling Warehouse.
Races
-
5K Run
Incl. $3.40 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
Sat 28th February 2026 (8:30AM EST)
$43.40
-
5 Mile Run
Incl. $3.70 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
Sat 28th February 2026 (9:15AM EST)
$48.70
-
The Bear (5K + 5 Mile = Both Races)
Incl. $4.00 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
Sat 28th February 2026 (8:30AM EST)
$54.00
The Bear, running both races, is a tough one. This is why it has become a must do for those in Spring Training. -
Virtual 5k
Incl. $3.40 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
$43.40
-
Virtual 5 Mile
Incl. $3.70 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
$48.70
-
Virtual Bear (5k + 5 Mile)
Incl. $4.00 Fee & Wear the Bear Winter Hat
$54.00
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44th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic
