2024 Official Guide Door County Half Marathon

Page 1

A Fast Finish, A Fresh Start

As Eduardo Neri raced down the final straightaway of the 2023 Door County Half Marathon, the five-minute-41second-per-mile pace he had kept for 13.1 miles of Peninsula State Park hills looked almost easy. But a larger life journey for the 2012 Sevastopol High School graduate and Sturgeon Bay resident has been anything but. He was born in Mexico, but his parents left their small village outside Mexico City for the promise of jobs in America when Neri was only 7 years old. Neri grew up with the uncertainty that comes with being undocumented.

They enrolled Neri, the third of their four children, in third grade. After less than two years working with a specialist assigned to help him, he was nearly fluent in English, but as his classmates got driver’s licenses, he couldn’t. He kept his status secret from his teachers, bosses and friends for years. When his high school teammates made jokes about

illegal aliens in practice or on the bus ride to a game, he bit his tongue. “Even the word ‘undocumented’ – there’s always that fear of getting kicked out that comes with it,” Neri said. “Especially the high school years. People will point you out if they find out. I felt that fear. That word, ‘undocumented’ or ‘illegal.’ It makes you feel like you’ve done something wrong, like you’re not part of the community.”

Neri worked through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, earning an associate’s degree from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay. He got a job, got married and had a son. He applied for permanent residency, but the marriage didn’t stick, and when he got divorced, he had to wait an additional five years before getting citizenship. “Since high school, I had the dream of becoming an American citizen,” Neri said. “That oath means a lot to me.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked from home, and he returned to school to get his bachelor’s degree at UWOshkosh. He got in shape and returned to the track and the trail, earning trips to the conference meet twice.

“We’ll see how it goes,” he said. “Maybe I can win it.”

Neri, who ran cross country and track for two years at UW–Oshkosh, said he didn’t enter last year’s Door County Half Marathon with a great spring of training under his belt.

“I was finishing up school, so I didn’t have time to focus on training,” he said. But the morning of the race, he felt spring in his legs as he jogged toward the starting line on Shore Road.

And Neri won easily, finishing a minute and 18 seconds ahead of four-time race winner Rodee Schneider. A year later, as he prepared to return to the race, he trained with new certainty under his feet.

On Feb. 14, he passed his citizenship test, and in March he finally took that oath he had dreamed of for so long, ending his longest journey and beginning a new one.

Door CANcer, Inc. Beth Alumbaugh Claire Anderson Jen Gallagher Alex Hockers Jeannie Hoffman Laurie Hucek Kate Hussey Anna Knapp Karen Krause Kathy McConkey Mary Kate McCormack Tara Meinke Charlie Mestek Becky Meyer Andrew Moore Jeanette Morris Sue Olson Emily Salm Kasie Sattler Emily Stousland Mackenzie Straub Lizbeth Thomas Lauren Ward Jody Weitman Door County Habitat for Humanity Tim Kowols Ellie Helm Foundation Willow Pfeiffer Jenny Wejman Friends of Plum & Pilot Island Kimberly Wells Gibraltar Fire & Rescue Joni Witalison Sue Baldwin Fund Avery Burress Deb Davis Scott Davis Tara DePrey Chris Janisse Laurel Janisse Sarah Koehler Emily Kraynek Anna Laifer Shana Lindow Marnie Massey Connie Pahl Dean Pahl Emma Pahl Morgan Rusnak Camilla Smith Carrie Baldwin Smith Nate Smith Nora Smith Tina Torcivia Simonie Woerfel The 2024 Run for a Cause Team This year 50 runners joined our Run For A Cause team, raising a combined $14,112 (and rising) for area charities. 2023 Run for a Cause Team. Photo by David Eliot. 2023 Door County Half Marathon starting line with Eduardo Neri leading the pack. Photo by Rachel Lukas. Run for a Cause The Door County Half Marathon’s Run for a Cause program has helped runners raise more than $239,950 for area charities since 2010. To join the effort, email jordan@peninsulapacers. com. Runners receive a free entry to the Door County Half Marathon or Nicolet Bay 5K when they raise at least $250 for an area charity of their choice. Find more information at doorcountyhalfmarathon.com. OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE
Run for a Cause is sponsored by the Peninsula Pulse and Nicolet National Bank
PhotobyRachelLukas.
Eduardo Neri of Sturgeon Bay

The Races On Course

I have never run a half marathon – I have not even attempted to – but I admire all those that do and I love being a spectator. The common goal of those running combined with their friends and family lined up along the course to cheer and encourage creates an energy of excitement, anticipation, anxiety, and hope.

For the duration of the race there is one goal for all in the park. There is one hope. There is the overwhelming desire from all spectators and runners that all the participants complete the course.

Races are a celebration of the human spirit – a demonstration of humanity’s resolve to overcome a challenge and to push physical and mental capacities to another level. The race celebrates the best of who and what we can be.

I have watched over 30 marathons, dozens of half marathons and all sorts of other races. I have always walked away from them inspired by those that crossed the finish line, those that did not but tried, and by the volunteers, spectators, and community that cheered on their friends and family as well as strangers they had never met.

I am looking forward to this year’s Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5k, spending some time in the park with friends, family and our community. I am looking forward to celebrating a run in Peninsula State Park with all of you.

On Saturday May 4, in the woods, beside the lake, in Peninsula State Park more than 2,000 runners are surrounded by family, friends, strangers, and acquaintances. They all wish and want the same thing.

They all want the runners to succeed.

Thanks for running, walking, watching, and cheering.

See you on the course.

Fourth overall was claimed by women’s winner Caitlin Kowalke, 33 of Shorewood, WI. Kowalke destroyed the previous women’s course record held by Hanna Christensen by three minutes and 47 seconds, finishing in 1:18:18. She was followed by two-time winner Relena Ribbons, 35 of Appleton who also bested Christensen’s mark. Ribbons finished in 1:21:42. Maggie Priebe, 31 of Green Bay placed third in 1:23:22.

More than 1,500 runners registered for the event, and 1,217 finished the half marathon. Another 814 registered for the Nicolet Bay 5k, with 680 finishing the race.

Kevin Boyle, 27 of Milwaukee posted the 5th fastest time in the history of the Nicolet Bay 5K, finishing in 16:29, followed by Scott Cayo, 35 of Brookfield in 17:41 and Dylan Schielke, 27 of Merrill in 18:29.

For the women Lynn Fitzsimmons, 56 of Mequon won the women’s side in 22:1 followed by Sara Kaiser, 27, of Milwaukee in 22:25 and Kat Nelson, 12, of Waukesha in 22:25

13.1

HALF MARATHON

The Door County Half Marathon will start at 10 am Saturday, May 6. Runners should allow 10 – 15 minutes to walk from the Runners’ Concourse to the starting line on Shore Rd.

The entire half marathon is run on paved surfaces in Peninsula State Park. The U.S. Track and Field certified course starts and finishes near Nicolet Beach. The course takes runners past breathtaking views of Green Bay, shaded areas through the woods, challenging hills and ever-changing scenery through one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful parks.

MP3 players are allowed for the race, but sorry, no dogs or strollers are allowed on the course due to space and safety concerns. Walkers are welcome and should plan to finish by the time the course opens to traffic at 1:30 pm.

Walkers should be aware that if your pace is slower than 16 minutes per mile, not all course amenities may be available later in the race, since time constraints require us to break down aid stations to re-open the park roads.

All half marathon participants receive a long-sleeve race shirt, a finisher’s medal, and food and drink (including beer from One Barrel Brewing Co.) in the Runners’ Concourse area.

3.1

NICOLET BAY 5K

The Nicolet Bay 5k begins at 10:15 am, just after the start of the half marathon. The starting line is also on Shore Road, but a few hundred yards from the start of the half marathon.

Runners will follow the out and back course to the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, where they will turn around for the finishing kick to the same finish line as the half marathoners.

MP3 players are allowed, but sorry, no dogs or strollers are allowed on the course due to space and safety concerns. Walkers are welcome in the 5k.

All participants will receive a race shirt as well as food, beverages, a free beer from One Barrel Brewing Co. in the Runners’ Concourse.

18:28 (2022)

2. Anna Gray, 18:29 (2018)

3. Allison Arndt, 34, Franklin, 18:58 (2014)

4. Liz Gilbert, 25, Sturgeon Bay, 19:05 (2015)

5. Bailey Wolf, 12, Oconto

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K
The top prize in the 15th annual Door County Half Marathon stayed local when Sevastopol graduate Eduardo Neri cruised to victory. The 29-year-old finished 1:18 ahead of four-time winner Rodee Schneider, 41 of Madison. Zachary Jindra, 28 of Glendale took third in 1:17:53.
Prize Packages & Awards
overall and masters division winners in the Door County Half Marathon each receive pottery created by Race Director Brian Fitzgerald, in addition to other prizes from local businesses.
2024
Our
EDUARDO NERI Door County Half Marathon Male 1. Tyler Sigl, Seymour, 1:07:56 (2017) 2. Jason Ryf, Oshkosh, 1:08:57 (2008) 3. Jason Ryf, Oshkosh, 1:09:02 (2009) 4. Brian Finnel, Forestville, 1:09:07 (2012) 5. Jason Ryf, Oshkosh, 1:09:51 (2010) Door County Half Marathon Female 1. Caitlin Kowalki, 33, Shorewood, 1:18:18 (2023) 2. Relena Ribbons, 35, Appleton, 1:21:42 (2023) 3. Hanna Christensen, 28, Madison, 1:22:05 (2019) 4. Relena Ribbons, 35, Appleton, 1:22:10 (2022) 5. Relena Ribbons, 34, Appleton, 1:22:19 (2021) Door County Half Marathon Male Masters 1. Rodee Schneider, 40, Madison, 1:15:39 (2022) 2. Rodee Schneider, 41, Madison, 1:15:41 (2023) 3. Eric Pilling, 1:17:45 (2016) 4. Matthew Braaksma, 1:19:44 (2018) 5. Damian Bednorz, 42, Bensenville, IL 1:20:42 (2022)
County Half Marathon Female Masters 1. Heather Tuttle-Copeland, 41, DePere, 1:30:00 (2013) 2. Jeanette Poole, 48, Mequon, 1:30:23 (2010) 3. Jennifer Chaudoir, 40, Green Bay, 1:30:30 (2015) 4. Kris Rostas, 55, Appleton, 1:30:53 (2019) 5. Cleo Ferris, 44, De Pere, 1:32:31 (2014) Nicolet Bay 5k Male 1. Dustin Hudeck, 15:59 (2016) 2. Trent Evans, 16:06 (2014) 3. Roy Pugsley, 16:11 (2014) 4. Mark Cabellaro, 16:16 (2018) 5. Kevin Boyle, 27, Milwaukee, 16:29 (2023) Nicolet Bay 5k Female 1. Nicole Struz, 27, Two Rivers,
Eduardo Neri of Sturgeon Bay cruised to victory in the 15th Door County Half Marathon on Saturday. Photo by Rachel Lukas.
Door
Falls, 19:44 (2011) Nicolet Bay 5k Male Masters 1. Roy Pugsley, 45, Potomac Falls, VA, 16:11 (2014) 2. Tony Kessler, 45, Kimberly, 18:21 (2012) 3. Tony Kessler, 47, Menasha, 18:37 (2014) 4. Brian Busse, 41, De Pere, 19:10 (2010) 5. Robert Deggendorf, 40, Sturgeon Bay, 19:16 (2022) Nicolet Bay 5k Female Masters 1. Becky Vander Heiden, 40, Monona, 20:30 (2019) 2. Heather Tuttle-Copeland, 42, De Pere, 20:44 (2014) 3. Rebecca Coutre, 21:16 (2018) 4. Lynn Fitzsimmons, 56, Mequon, 22:17 (2023) 4. Koreena Renard, 49, New Franken, 22:33 (2019) CAITLIN KOWALKE Caitlin Kowalke finished the 15th Door County Half Marathon in record time. Photo by Rachel Lukas. Course Records 2023 Race Winners

Peninsula State Park provides spectators with a one-of-a-kind viewing experience, giving you incredible views of natural splendor while you catch friends and family as they take on the challenging course.

The Half Marathon begins at 10 am, the 5k at 10:15 am, a few hundred yards behind the start of the half marathon.

Roads into the park close at 9 am. Spectators may ride shuttles into the park.

Sorry, pets are not allowed at Nicolet Bay Beach, the location of the Runner’s Concourse, per state park rules. We also do not allow dogs on the race course, at the finish line area, or on shuttles. Dogs must be on a leash at all times in other areas of the park.

Here are your best bets for watching the Half Marathon:

1. The Starting Line: While the Starting line can be accessed via Shore Road from the Runners’ Concourse, it is recommended that spectators walk the trail along Nicolet Bay to reduce congestion in the starting chute. The starting line is a 10 - 15 minute walk from the Runners’ Concourse. When exiting the Nicolet Bay Boat Launch parking lot, spectators will have a great place to see the runners off for the half marathon and have plenty of time to walk back along Shore Road to get to the start of the Nicolet Bay 5k if you want.

2. Mile 2/11: From the Runners’ Concourse area, cross Shore Road to reach the overflow parking lot (AFT Parking Lot). Take Sunset Trail to the Theater sign, and take a right which will lead you past the amphitheater and on to the

Aid Stations for the Door County Half Marathon and the Nicolet Bay 5k are staffed by volunteers from peninsula nonprofits. The Door County Half Marathon donates to each of the organizations for their time. (But a “Thank You!” as you run by helps too.)

A/H: NorDoor Athletics

Located by Eagle Bluff Lighthouse on Shore Road. used along the half marathon route at mile 1 ½ and at mile 11 ½. Used on the Nicolet Bay 5k route at about the 1 ½ mile mark.

NorDoor Athletics is an organization that offers youth baseball and softball opportunities for our Northern Door residents during the summer.

B/G: Might Pioneers

Located on Shore Road, this aid station is used twice along the half marathon route, just before mile 2 and again just before mile 11.

The Mighty Pioneers are Sevastopol’s 4k-6th grade youth sports organization. The main emphasis of the organization is to develop and enhance fundamentals, learn the importance of teamwork, and teach good sportsmanship for all youth participating in sports at Sevastopol.

C: Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church - Guatemala Mission

Located on Mengelberg Lane near Blossomburg Cemetery along the half marathon route near mile 4.

The Shepherd of the Bay Guatemala Mission Trip works with the Mayan people in Chichicastenango, Guatemala to build and repair house for widows, install water filters and stoves, and work in friend programs for kids. The children of Guatemala suffer one of highest malnutrition rates in the world.

I: Peninsula State Park Mountain Bike Club

Located atop the infamous climb to Sven’s Bluff on Skyline Road along the half marathon route just beyond mile 5.

The Peninsula Mtn Bike club is a local group of bikers and volunteers looking to help support the trail system in Peninsula State Park. They are assisted by volunteers from the Door County Board of Realtors.

Tennison Bay Campground and Shore Road at about mile two.

From the Runners’ Concourse, it will be about a half mile to the viewing location, so spectators should allow for 10-15 minutes to make this walk. (Be aware of the pace at which the runner you would like to see is running, it could be difficult to catch them at mile two.) The half marathon runners will pass this spot once more just before mile 11.

3. Mile 6/10 intersection: Get to this viewing spot by taking Sunset Trail from the Runner’s Concourse to Bluff Road. Cross Bluff Road, making sure not to interrupt runners and follow the signs down Hemlock Road. (Please stay to the right side of the cones when heading to the 6/10 intersection and on the left when returning from the 6/10 intersection.) This viewing spot is about three-quarters of a mile from the Runners’ Concourse, and spectators should allow 15-20 minutes to walk to the intersection of Hemlock and Skyline Roads. From here, you can catch runners twice, first as they speed down the hill of Skyline Road near mile six, then again as they make the turn to the homestretch at mile 10.

4. The Finish Line: Located near the Runners’ Concourse, the Finish Line is on Shore Road. Line the finish chute and make some noise to propel runners through their final strides. (This is also the finish line for the Nicolet Bay 5k.)

PLEASE NOTE: Dogs must be on a leash at all times! Along the course and at the finish line, please keep dogs off the course and in the grass off the side of the road.

D: Door County YMCA

Located on Hemlock Road along the half marathon route just past mile 6.

The Door County YMCA is strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA has been serving Door County for over 30 years and is proud to touch the lives of 1 in 3 people in the community. More at doorcountyymca.org.

E: Egg Harbor Historical Society

Located on Highland Road along the half marathon route just before mile 8.

The Egg Harbor Historical Society works to bring the history of Egg Harbor to life for future generations. Gathering family histories, recognizing historic buildings, and saving our heritage for new generations to enjoy.

The EHHS has recently focused their efforts on the restoration and rehabilitation of the iconic Door County Library Bookmobile. Learn more at EggHarborWI.com.

F: Sevastopol Track & Cross Country

Located on Skyline Road along the half marathon route just past mile 9.

The Sevastopol Track & Cross Country teams return for their 12th year in support of the half marathon. Coach Annie Bley appreciated the opportunity to expose her athletes to the sport of running outside high school.

Finish Line: Gibraltar Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 is raising money to help pay for Junior Prom which is an event the whole high school community looks forward to every spring.

Runner Gear Check: Sevastopol Destination Imagination Located in the packet pick up/ gear check tent at the runner’s concourse.

Sevastopol DI is using the funds raised to help pay for the global competition in Kansas City in May. Kids 4th through 12th grade compete in STEAM based challenges that focus on teamwork, public speaking and creativity, while solving the challenges.

Hidden Bluff M i dd le Rd. H e m l o c k R d . S u n s e t T r a i Park Entrance Headquarters Service Area Weborg Marsh Fish Creek Shelter Pier Weborg Point Nelson Point Fish Creek Spring Rd Bike Trail Parking 42 Blossomburg Cemetery Tennis Court Sven’s Bluff Boat Launch Tennison Bay Green Bay Tennison Bay Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Welc Po Sh Nature Center ShoreRd. Shore R d Bluff Rd SkylineRd To Sturgeon Bay He m l o c k T r a i l Mengelberg Lane MiddleRd . hSero R d . A I 1 2 3 4 11 A D C P P P 12 H FINISH B G P 6 5 I 10 J NICOLET BAY 5K COURSE
HALF MARATHON COURSE SUPOORTING SPONSORS: Julie’s Park Cafe & Motel | Hayden Water AID
OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE PRESENTED BY: PREMIER SPONS0R:
Courses
STATIONS SPECTATOR INFO
Horseshoe Island Dock One Way F 42 A Golf Course Service Area Mt Bike Trail Parking Golf Course Memorial Pole Clubhouse Boat Launch Store/Rentals Welcker’s North Nicolet Bay South Nicolet Bay ToE Nicolet Bay Eagle Harbor cker’s oint helter Eagle Bluff Eagle Terrace Park Entrance Shore Rd. Skyline Rd ohS r e Rd . Highland Rd . Middle Rd Gibraltar Rd To Baileys Harbor Information Center Eagle Tower Driving Range 0 1,000' Nicolet Beach 7 8 F E P P Lot 5 Green Bay, Lake Michigan START 9 Park Boundary Paved Road Picnic Area with Toilets Amphitheater Campground Group Campground Wooded Areas Playground 8 Mile Marker LEGEND A Aid Stations Runners’ Concourse P Parking Trailhead with Parking Hiking Trail BikingTrail Gravel Spectator Routes Prime Spectator Spot J Water Co. | Birchwood Lodge | GFL Environmental | Flanigan Distributing | On Deck Clothing Company | Door County Dairy Promotion SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K RUN FOR A CAUSE SPONSOR: Nicolet National Bank PACE TEAM SPONSOR: Door County Medical Center MAJOR SPONSORS:

RUNNER INSTRUCTIONS

Thank you for participating in the 16th annual Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5k. Here’s a quick guide to make your run preparation as easy as possible. Good luck!

FRIDAY, MAY 3

The Packet Pickup and Expo will be held at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall at the corner of County F and Highway 57, from 1 – 8 pm. (Packet pickup on Saturday is at Nicolet Bay inside the park from 8 – 9 am). Get official Door County Half Marathon gear at the expo, or shop for great gear from Run Away Shoes.

Purchase annual ($28 for WI plates, $38 for out-of-state plates) or daily ($10, $13) park stickers at Packet Pickup if you plan to drive to the park. Pay by cash or check only.

SATURDAY, MAY 4

The Door County Half Marathon begins at 10 am. The starting line is near the boat launch. (See map.)

The Nicolet Bay 5k begins at 10:15 am. The starting line is on Shore Road, about a quarter mile from the half marathon starting line. (See map.)

Schedule of Events

Shuttle Schedule Saturday, May 4

Shuttles will do a one-time pick up for guests at designated lodging sponsors at 8 am.

Additional shuttles will run continuously from our Park and Ride locations, Skyway Drive-in and Gibraltar School in Fish Creek, from 8 am – 2:30 pm. It is about a 20 minute ride from any of our stops to the Runners’ Concourse inside the park. Shuttles will make return stops to our lodging sponsors and our Park and Ride locations from 11am – 2:30 pm. Please note designated roads inside the park will be closed until 1:30 pm.

Getting to the Park

There are two ways to get to Peninsula State Park, carpool or ride the shuttle (see shuttle stops and times on the Shuttle Schedule).

If you carpool you must have an annual or daily Wisconsin State Park parking sticker. Annual stickers are available at both the Fish Creek and Ephraim park entrances. The Fish Creek entrance is only open until 9 am. We suggest that you purchase your annual sticker before race day to avoid delays. Daily stickers are available at packet pickup on Friday or at the Fish Creek or Ephraim entrances. Parking is limited. Cash or check only.

Both participants and spectators may ride the shuttle to the park. Sorry, dogs are not allowed on the shuttles. Please see the schedule for details.

Absolutely no runner drop off in the park.

Plan to arrive at Peninsula State Park between 8 and 9:15 am to avoid delays getting to the starting line. You may use the Fish Creek entrance until 9 am. The Ephraim entrance will remain open. Park Greeters will assist you at each entrance.

At 9:45 am all course roads inside the park will be closed to all traffic except shuttle buses and emergency vehicles. All roads will re-open at 1:30 pm.

At the Runner’s Concourse

The Runners’ Concourse is located near Nicolet Beach. Here you will find Packet Pickup, Gear Check, Merchandise, Pace Team info, concessions, and bathrooms.

Porta-johns will be located in the Runners’ Concourse as well as near the starting line and just before each aid station.

Your cell phone may not work in the park. Designate a location to meet with family and friends after the race.

The starting line for the Door County Half Marathon is roughly a half mile from the Runner’s Concourse. Please give yourself 15 minutes to walk from the concourse to the starting line and find your spot in the starting chute. Slower runners and walkers should start near the back of the pack.

On the course

• Porta-johns will be located at the starting line and just before each aid station.

• The safest place to warm up for the half marathon is on the course from the finish line to the two-mile mark. This section of the course will be closed early to all traffic.

• Aid stations will have water and original Gatorade. Caffeine-free Hammergel Gel packs will be available at the aid station located near mile 8. Medical personnel will be on site.

Important race notes

Running with another person’s bib is not allowed.

Your timing chip is affixed to your bib. To ensure that your race time is recorded, bibs must be affixed to the front of your torso and should not be covered by another layer of clothing. Affixing your bib to the side of your shorts or your back greatly reduces reliability of the timing chip.

If you do not run in the race that you signed up for, your results will not be valid.

For the safety of all runners, strollers and dogs are not allowed on the course in either race. Runners on the course with strollers or dogs will be removed from the course by race officials.

11 am – 2:30 pm Buses begin

After the race

Half marathoners will receive their finisher’s medals in the finish shute. Participants should proceed to the Runners’ Tent for water, Gatorade, food, race results, and bag pickup. This is also where you can claim your free beer from One Barrel Brewing Co.

*Buses will run continuously during these times. Return stops to all pickup points. Dogs are not allowed on the shuttles.

Athletic trainers from Door County Medical Center will be stationed at the Door County Medical Center Tent in the Runners’ Concourse.

Awards ceremony for overall winners only for 5k will be approximately at 11:45am to ensure you can see the first male and female Half Marathon finishers. Please make sure to check the results board to see if you’re an age group winner (1st, 2nd & 3rd) and pick up your award at the awards table.

Awards ceremony for overall winners and male & female masters only for the half marathon will be at 12:30pm. Please make sure to check the results board to see if you’re an age group winner (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, & 5th) and pick up your award at the awards table.

Open Tab will provide live music from 11 am - 2 pm.

The final shuttle leaves the concourse at 2:30 pm.

doorcountyhalfmarathon.com
DAY & TIME EVENT LOCATION FRIDAY, MAY 3 8:00 am – Dusk Course Open Peninsula State Park 1 – 8 pm Packet Pickup Baileys Harbor Town Hall SATURDAY, MAY 4 8 am Shuttle Bus Pickup See Schedule 8 – 9:00 am Packet Pickup Peninsula State Park 10 am Door County Half Marathon Peninsula State Park 10:15 am Nicolet Bay 5K Peninsula State Park 11:00 am Live Music, Open Tab Peninsula State Park 11:45 am Nicolet Bay 5K Awards Peninsula State Park 12:30 pm Half Marathon Awards Peninsula State Park 2:30 pm Final Shuttle Leaves Peninsula State Park
TIME LOCATION PICK-UP 8 am AppleCreek Resort Lodging Guests Only Bay Breeze Resort Lodging Guests Only Birchwood Lodge Lodging Guests Only Eagle Harbor Inn Lodging Guests Only Dörr Hotel Lodging Guests Only High Point Inn Lodging Guests Only Homestead Suites Lodging Guests Only Julie’s Park Café & Motel Lodging Guests Only Parkwood
Lodging Guests Only Pheasant
Lodging Guests
Scandinavian
Lodging Guests
Lodging Guests
Lodging Guests
Lodge
Park Resort
Only
Lodge
Only Waterbury Inn
Only Evergeen Hill Condominiums
Only White Gull Inn Lodging Guests Only
return stops to the Locations listed above. 8 am – 2:30 pm* Skyway Drive-In Theatre Runners/Spectators/ Hwy 42, Fish Creek Volunteers 8 am – 2:30 pm* Gibraltar School Runners/Spectators/ Hwy 42, Fish Creek Volunteers
OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE

2024 Award Medal Pick Up

While we would love for everyone to stay for the awards in the park, we understand some of you need to leave. To help distribute the award medals, we’re adding two pick up locations.

This year, you can pick up your award medal if you placed 1st-5th in your age group in the Half Marathon or 1st-3rd place in your age group in the Nicolet Bay 5k.

Pickups will be offered at the following times and locations:

Saturday, May 4 - Stabbur (Sister Bay) 4 – 6 pm

Sunday, May 5 - One Barrel Brewing Co (Egg Harbor) 10:30 am –12:00 pm

Any remaining medals will be mailed.

The Team

Brian Fitzgerald Race Director

Brian Fitzgerald is a co-founder of the Peninsula Pacers: the organizers of the Door County Half Marathon, Peninsula Century Fall Challenge and Spring Classic bike rides, Hairpin 5k, Hey Hey 5K, One Barrel Fun Run, Door County Wine Fest and Door County Beer Festival. He also handles course and aidstation operations for the MS Challenge Walk and is the bike and run course director for the Door County Triathlon. An avid outdoors enthusiast, Fitzgerald loves to ski, run and bike throughout the peninsula, doing them all much faster than he drives. He lives in Ephraim with his wife, Tracey.

David Eliot

Door County Half Marathon

Co-founder

David Eliot is a co-founder of the Door County Half Marathon and the Peninsula Pacers: organizers of the Door County Half Marathon, Peninsula Century Fall Challenge and Spring Classic bike rides, Hairpin 5k, Hey Hey 5K, One Barrel Fun Run, Door County Wine Fest and Door County Beer Festival. He’s also a co-founder and the publisher of the Peninsula Pulse weekly newspaper and Door County Living magazine. A member of various local boards, he lives in Baileys Harbor with his wife, Krista, who is the race’s paceteam coordinator.

Jordan Burress Project Manager and Registration Director

Jordan Burress is the project manager and registration director for the Peninsula Pacers: organizers of the Door County Half Marathon, Peninsula Century Fall Challenge and Spring Classic bike rides, Hairpin 5k, Hey Hey 5K, One Barrel Fun Run, Door County Wine Fest and Door County Beer Festival. She lives in Sister Bay with her husband, Justin, and their three daughters.

Myles Dannhausen Jr. Race Assistant

Myles Dannhausen Jr. is involved in the many events of the Peninsula Pacers and has been a member of the Door County Half Marathon team since the first running. He is a three-time marathon finisher and co-owner of Peninsula Publishing and Distribution. He lives in Sister Bay with his wife, Anne; and sons, Connor and Grady.

Krista Eliot

Pace-team Coordinator

Pace-team coordinator Krista

Eliot has been a part of the race since it started. As an experienced runner of 40 marathons and many other races, Eliot’s input has been vital in catering the race to the needs of our runners. She lives in Baileys Harbor with her husband, race co-founder David Eliot.

Ben Fitzgerald

Aid-station Coordinator

Ben Fitzgerald is no stranger to Peninsula Pacers events and has years of experience working in a number of roles. Recently he’s coordinated Rest Stops for both the Peninsula Century Spring Classic and Peninsula Century Fall Challenge, as well as assisting with a course role for the Door County Triathlon and the Fall 50. Ben is currently in his junior year at UW Eau Claire and enjoys soccer, biking and running in his spare time. Ben is a true Door County native and proud to call Ephraim his home.

Cole Vanderleest Concourse Coordinator

Cole Vanderleest was a runner in a previous life. He now co-owns DC County Chocolate Design and co ee shop with his wife, Kara and their daughter, Khloe. They live in Sister Bay.

Marla Maney Shuttle Coordinator

Marla has been involved in the event world from both a participant and sta perspective for over a decade. She’s competed in triathlons, run marathons such as New York, San Diego, and Chicago, completed a 50-mile ultra and worked as sta for events in Wisconsin, Maryland and Florida. In her free time Marla enjoys traveling with her husband and loves to spoil their doberman Lenny.

Lars Johnson

Door County Half Marathon Co-founder

Johnson is a co-owner of Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant. He has completed 15 marathons, including the Boston Marathon in 2003, and was integral in forming the Door County Half Marathon

Thank You Volunteers!

One of the best parts of working at the Door County Half Marathon is coming together with such a fantastic group of volunteers each year.

From members of high school service clubs and church groups, to business owners, to visitors who just want to be a part of the event, we get to spend the week with some of the best people in our community and beyond.

More than 200 volunteers help us put this event together, and no matter what we throw at them, they respond with enthusiasm and a smile. We can’t thank them enough.

They are the reason this race has such an incredible feel to it, why runners come back year after year, and why we have so much fun putting it together.

Please thank them every chance you get!

Pacers will be on hand at the Door County Half Marathon to help guide runners to a successful finish. You’ll find them at the starting line holding signs with their goal finish times on them.

The team is organized by Krista Eliot, a veteran of 40 marathons and experienced member of both New Balance and Nike pace teams. Eliot said the pace team’s goal is to help runners finish within one minute of the goal time. “We’re here to help you, provide encouragement and support for runners to keep that finish goal in sight,” Eliot said.

The hills of the race challenge runners, especially if you have not done any hill training for the race. Runners should not necessarily expect pacers to run at the exact same pace throughout the race. Pace team members aim to maintain their prescribed pace up the hills, but there will likely be a slower pace going uphill, and faster going downhill. They will also slow or stop at aid stations, with slower pace teams taking slightly more time.

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K
Your 2023 Pace Team 1:45 (8:01 min/mile) Chris Schmitz & Pam Schmitz 1:50 (8:23 min/mile) Raymond Rivera & Joel Coon 1:55 (8:46 min/mile) Chad Otis, Curt Brey & David Schroeder 2:00 (9:09 min/mile) Jessica Rein, Terra Otis & Aaron Hizon 2:05 (9:32 min/mile) Jean Lemke, Katie Houle & Aaron Schneider 2:10 (9:55 min/mile) Kimberly Huntley & Ana Andrade 2:15 (10:18 min/mile) Fred Kramer & Jenny Rabas 2:20 (10:41 min/mile) Marty Thomas & Craig Congdon 2:25 (11:04 min/mile) Jackie Kohlhagen & Angela Bilbrey Check Your Pace team on hand to guide runners 1:45 FOLLOW ME DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON PENINSULA STATE PARK MAY 6, 2023 2023 Pace Team.
2:30 (11:27) min/mile)
Paula Walker & Sara Carter

Presented by the

May 3, 2025

Fish Creek

July 4

Door County Half Marathon

A run in Peninsula State Park doorcountyhalfmarathon.com

Fish Creek

Sept. 14

Sister Bay

Peninsula Century Fall Challenge Ride Northern Door County peninsulacenturyfallchallenge.com

Hairpin 5k Run/Walk Longest-running 5K in Door County hairpinrun.com

Nov. 30

Egg Harbor

One Barrel Fun Run Catch the penguin onebarrelrun.com

June 15

Baileys Harbor

Door County Beer Festival

Good beer, good food, good music

June 22

Door County Wine Festival

Sip and savor Door County wines doorcountywinefest.com

June 15

Baileys Harbor

Peninsula Century Spring Classic Ride the backroads of Door County peninsulacenturyspringclassic.com

Baileys Harbor doorcountybeer.com

Sept. 21

Baileys Harbor

OFFICIAL GUIDE 2024 DOOR COUNTY HALF MARATHON & NICOLET BAY 5K SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT PENINSULA PULSE
2024/2025 EVENTS
UPCOMING
heyhey5k.com
finishes at the
Hey Hey 5K Starts and
Door County Brewing Company

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