2020 Kalamazoo Klassic Postponed for the First Time in 41 Years

The June races will not be held as scheduled, but organizers are hoping for a Fall date for the Kalamazoo Klassic 5k and 10k races.

The hill, the will, the thrill! The waiting. Like nearly every other activity involving a gathering of people, the Kalamazoo Klassic has been affected by Coronavirus. Race organizers shared the news on their Facebook page March 26.

Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, it has become necessary to postpone the 2020 Kalamazoo Klassic, presented in partnership by MRC Industries, Inc. and Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR). We are exploring the possibility of a reschedule date on Saturday, October 3, 2020, dependent upon public health guidelines and availability of community resources anticipated as of that point in time. If we are not able to host the live event, we will consider other options, including a virtual event.

Earlier in the year, the Kalamazoo Marathon switched to a virtual event, and the Kal-Haven Trail Run, usually run in April has been moved to November. The Kalamazoo Klassic is a June event with a 5k and 10k course famous for the big hill on Maple Street. The races are set up so that ambitious runners can compete in both the 5k and 10k events back-to-back. We're going to have to wait a little while longer to see if anyone will be toeing the starting line at all in 2020.

Depending on whom you talk to, masks are recommended for runners and athletes. Find out how to make one from an old race t-shirt in the video below.