2025 OFFICIAL GUIDE
The Races On Course
Our Sign of Spring
“There is something magical about running; after a certain distance, it transcends the body. Then a bit further, it transcends the mind. A bit further yet, and what you have before you, laid bare, is the soul.”
—Kristin Armstrong, writer and runner
Winter is slowly receding and spring is trying to make her introduction. The trees in Peninsula State Park are slowly pushing out their leaves and flowers are beginning to find their way into view.
The Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5K were founded for you – the runner, the families that support the runners, the fans and spectators and the Door County community. It was and is to be a celebration of rebirth, of spring, of nature and of the human spirit.
Kara Goucher, a long distance runner and a Silver Medalist in the 10,000 meters, once wrote “That’s the thing about running: your greatest runs are rarely measured by racing success. They are moments in time when running allows you to see how wonderful your life is.”
For the runners, the road to the starting line is not easy. It takes days, months, years of training. It is a mental journey just as much as a physical one. It is a quest to create the habits that help build the endurance and mental capacity to achieve something that many would think impossible.
I have never run a half marathon but I have been a spectator for many a race. The collective energy of the runners is infectious and spreads throughout the crowd and the runners. Everyone’s journey to the starting line is different, but when everyone lines up – they all have the same goal.
I know the runners are all eager to get to the starting line, to begin another journey.
The races are almost here.
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 3, in the woods and beside the lake in Peninsula State Park, more than 2,500 runners will be surrounded by family, friends and strangers.
We all want the runners to succeed.
Thanks to everyone for running, walking, watching and cheering.
See you on the course.
David Eliot
Co-Founder, Door County Half Marathon Publisher, Peninsula Pulse
13.1
HALF MARATHON
The Door County Half Marathon will start at 10 am Saturday, May 3. 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.
Run for a Cause
The 2025 Run for a Cause Team
This year 34 runners joined our Run For A Cause team, raising a combined $11,446 (and rising) for area charities. Each participant receives a free race entry when they commit to raising at least $250 for charity. Now in its fifteenth year, the program has raised more than $258,788 for charities.
American Cancer Association
Erin Housiaux
Community Projects for Seniors
Amanda Jashek
Door County Habitat for Humanity
Tim Kowols
Door County
Humane Society
Cory Wunrow
The Door County Half Marathon’s Run for a Cause program has helped runners raise more than $258,788 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. Run for a Cause is sponsored by
Feed & Clothe My People - Sturgeon Bay
Mary Blichmann
Fox Valley Veterans Council
Adam Neuman
Sue Baldwin Fund
Deb Davis
Scott Davis
Sarah Koehler
Eugene Kornel
Izzy Kornel
Katie Kornel
Richie Kornel
Bobby Kraynek
Dot Kraynek
Emily Kraynek
Lou Kraynek
Willa Kraynek
Laurie Murphy
Mark Murphy
Connie Pahl
Dean Pahl
Emma Pahl
Avett Sattler
Kasie Sattler
Otto Sattler
Camilla Smith
Carrie Smith
Nora Smith
Devin White
Harper White
Jason White
Sarah White
Scarlett White
About myTEAM TRIUMPH & Our DCHM Journey
myTEAM TRIUMPH is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building inclusive communities through the power of endurance athletics. We pair athletes with disabilities, whom we call our Captains, with able-bodied athletes, or Angels, to race together as a team in events like the Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5K.
We’ve been proud participants in the Door County Half Marathon for over a decade, and we lovingly refer to it as “the perfect half.” The breathtaking views of Peninsula State Park, the incredible crowd support, and the dedication of the race organizers to inclusion
make this event truly special for our teams. Our Captains and Angels experience the course side-byside, crossing the finish line together in triumph – and that’s what it’s all about.
This race is more than just a run; it’s a celebration of community, advocacy, and breaking barriers. We look forward to it year after year and are so thankful for the unwavering support from the DCHM team.
- myTEAM TRIUMPH
2024 Run for a Cause Team. Photo by Katie Hohmann.
2024 Race Winners
Warm May temperatures made for fast finishes at the 16th Door County Half Marathon on May 4, 2024.
Grayson Stout of Sheboygan came within striking distance of Tyler Sigl’s course record, finishing in 1:08:43, a 5:15 per mile pace. Sigl set the record of 1:07:56 in 2017. Stout, 29, also won the race in 2022.
Stout finished 4:28 ahead of Payton Heinberg, 23, of Green Bay. John Hollister, 41, of Neenah, finished 3rd, and first in the Masters division (40+), where he set the new record for the Masters division at 1:15:09.
on the course. Brigid Brennan, 28, of Raleigh, North Carolina, recorded the fourth best time in course history at 1:22:02, and Maggie Priebe of Allouez finished third in 1:23:33.
Elizabeth Kujawa, 42, of Berlin WI, crushed the women’s Masters division record with a time of 1:24:34.
Caitlin Kowalke, 34, of Sherwood returned to the podium on the women’s side, finishing in 1:19:24 to defend her 2023 title. She now holds the top two women’s times recorded
In the Nicolet Bay 5k, Scott Cayo led the pack with a time of 18:13. Liz Kanzleiter nearly caught Cayo. The 37 year-old from Suamico finished second overall in a time of 18:39 to pace the women.
1,700 runners registered for the event, and 1,304 finished the half marathon. Another 822 registered for the Nicolet Bay 5k, with 749 finishing the race
2025 Prize Packages & Awards
Our 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.
Grayson Stout cruised to victory in the 16th Door County Half Marathon on Saturday. Photo by Katie Hohmann.
GRAYSON
CAITLIN KOWALKE
Caitlin Kowalke finished the 16th Door County Half Marathon in record time. Photo by Katie Hohmann.
Course Records
Door County Half Marathon Male
1. Tyler Sigl, Seymour, 1:07:56 (2017)
2. Grayson Stout, 29, Sheboygan, 1:08:43 (2024)
3. Jason Ryf, Oshkosh, 1:08:57 (2008)
4. Jason Ryf, Oshkosh, 1:09:02 (2009)
5. Brian Finnel, Forestville, 1:09:07 (2012)
Door County Half Marathon Female
1. Caitlin Kowalki, 33, Sherwood, 1:18:18 (2023)
2. Caitlin Kowalki, 34, Sherwood, 1:19:24 (2024)
3. Relena Ribbons, 35, Appleton, 1:21:42 (2023)
4. Brigid Brennan, 28, Raleigh, NC, 1:22:02 (2024)
5. Hanna Christensen, 28, Madison, 1:22:05 (2019)
Door County Half Marathon Male Masters
1. John Hollister, 41, Neenah, 1:15:09 (2024)
2. Rodee Schneider, 40, Madison, 1:15:39 (2022)
3. Rodee Schneider, 41, Madison, 1:15:41 (2023)
4. Eric Pilling, 1:17:45 (2016)
5. Rodee Schneider, 42, Madison, 1:17:51 (2024)
Door County Half Marathon Female Masters
1. Elizabeth Kujawa, 42, Berlin, 1:24:34 (2024)
2. Katherine Green, 40, De Pere, 1:27:55 (2024)
3. Heather Tuttle-Copeland, 41, DePere, 1:30:00 (2013)
4. Jeanette Poole, 48, Mequon, 1:30:23 (2010)
5. Jennifer Chaudoir, 40, Green Bay, 1:30:30 (2015)
Nicolet Bay 5k Male
Dustin Hudeck, 15:59 (2016)
Trent Evans, 16:06 (2014)
Roy Pugsley, 16:11 (2014)
Mark Cabellaro, 16:16 (2018)
Kevin Boyle, 27, Milwaukee, 16:29 (2023)
Nicolet Bay 5k Female
Nicole Struz, 27, Two Rivers, 18:28 (2022)
Anna Gray, 18:29 (2018)
Liz Kanzleiter, 37, Suamico, 18:39 (2024)
Allison Arndt, 34, Franklin, 18:58 (2014)
Liz Gilbert, 25, Sturgeon Bay, 19:05 (2015)
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. Erik Joss, 41, Chicago, 18:58 (2024)
5. Matthew Hutter, 44, Prairie du Sac, 19:06 (2024)
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. Gemma Mrozinsky, 52, Manitowoc, 22:06 (2021)
5. Lynn Fitzsimmons, 57, Mequon, 22:09 (2024)
I will never give up, I am not too old, and I have my team to help me.
A Journey to the Starting Line, and Health
BY MARY BLICHMANN
Most of my life I was in pretty good physical shape. I rode my bike across a few states, rode over mountain passes, and finished several sprint triathlons. I also dealt with compulsive over-eating, anxiety, and depression which took over later in my life, causing me to stop doing these physical activities. I gained a lot of weight, and 18 months ago I couldn’t even walk a block to the library without resting on a bench before I returned.
Today, I’m preparing to walk the 13.1 miles of the Door county Half Marathon. This is how I got here.
At 63 years old, I was very discouraged and ready to give up when two things happened almost simultaneously. I met Holly Swain at Door County Medical Center. She was very encouraging and offered to meet with me every three months to help me with my weight loss goal. She said she believed in me and was confident I could meet my health goals. I agreed, and for the first time in a long time, I had hope.
The second thing was that I watched the movie Nyad, about Diana Nyad, the long-distance
swimmer who successfully swam from Cuba to Florida at the age of 64. It was so inspiring to see someone close to my own age accomplish such a grueling event. Standing on the Florida shoreline after swimming for 52 hours straight, she said three things: 1. You are never too old 2. Never give up 3. It takes a team.
I took these three things to heart and decided to put together my own team. I knew it was an uphill battle. But I already had Holly in my corner, and I have my supportive wife of 41 years. I added in a dietitian and the best mental health therapist I could ever ask for. I dove into learning about sugar addiction and cut out most sugar from my diet. I ate fruits and vegetables and began to lose weight without even exercising! Going to weekly therapy helped me the most, as I began to sort out my old messages and all the things holding me back from living a healthy lifestyle. I journaled daily, meditated, and then started walking as soon as the weather
became warm. I began slowly, adding in a few more steps with every walk. Small steps led to big changes. Soon I could walk a couple miles, and then a couple more. I was walking daily and loved it and I eventually lost 90 pounds over 15 months.
Then I heard about the Door County Half Marathon. I thought of Diana Nyad and thought that if she can swim that far, I can certainly walk 13 miles! I never dreamed this would be my journey. I learned that race participants can choose a charity and raise money with the Run For A Cause program, and of course that resonated with me. I chose to raise funds for Feed My People, Clothe My People here in Door County. Today I continue to walk as much as I can to train for this event. It has not been an easy journey and takes sacrifices, but it is worth it.
I will never give up, I am not too old, and I have my team to help me. This is how I went from walking one block to signing up for a half marathon. See you at the finish line!
Photo by Remy Carmichael.
SPECTATOR INFO
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 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.
AID STATIONS
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, softball and basketball opportunities for our Northern Door residents during the summer.
B/G: Mighty 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.
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 13th 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 competition fees. Kids 4th through 12th grade compete in STEAM based challenges that focus on teamwork, public speaking and creativity, while solving the challenges.
HALF MARATHON COURSE
RUNNER INSTRUCTIONS
Thank you for participating in the 17th annual Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5k. Here’s a guide to make your run preparation as easy as possible. Good luck!
FRIDAY, MAY 2
The Packet Pickup 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 ($13, $16) park stickers at Packet Pickup if you plan to drive to the park. Pay by cash or check only.
SATURDAY, MAY 3
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
FRIDAY, MAY 2
8:00 am – Dusk Course Open Peninsula State Park
1 – 8 pm Packet Pickup Baileys Harbor Town Hall
SATURDAY, MAY 3
8 am Shuttle Bus Pickup See Schedule
8 – 9:00 am Packet Pickup
10
Peninsula State Park
Shuttle Schedule
Saturday, May 3
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.
8 am AppleCreek Resort Lodging Guests Only
Bay Breeze Resort Lodging Guests Only Birchwood Lodge Lodging Guests Only Eagle Harbor Inn Lodging Guests Only Evergeen Hill Condominiums 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 Landmark Resort Lodging Guests Only Parkwood Lodge Lodging Guests Only Pheasant Park Resort Lodging Guests Only Scandinavian Lodge Lodging Guests Only Waterbury Inn Lodging Guests Only White Gull Inn Lodging Guests Only
11 am – 2:30 pm Buses begin 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
*Buses will run continuously during these times. Return stops to all pickup points. Dogs are not allowed on the shuttles.
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.
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.
After the race
Half marathoners will receive their finisher’s medals in the finish shute. Participants should proceed to the Runners’ Tent for water, Tailwind, food, race results, and bag pickup. This is also where you can claim your free beer from One Barrel Brewing Co.
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.
• Aid stations will have water and mandarin Tailwind endurance formula. 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 and is subject to disqualification.
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.
2025 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 3 - Stabbur (Sister Bay) 4 – 6 pm
Sunday, May 4 - 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 aid-station 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 pace-team 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.
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 Course Director
Ben Fitzgerald is no stranger to Peninsula Pacers events and has years of experience working in a number of roles. He’s the Ride Director for both the Peninsula Century Spring Classic and Peninsula Century Fall Challenge, as well a founder and director of Pen Park Trails Fest, the Pacers newest event. Ben is a new graduate from 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 coffee 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 staff 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 staff for events in Wisconsin, Maryland and Florida. In her free time Marla enjoys traveling with her husband and loves to spoil their doberman Lenny.
Brian Stenzel
Start/Finish Line Coordinator
Brian got his start in endurance sports back in his High School Cross Country days and has gone on to compete some amazing feats, including adding Ironman to his endurance resume. He now focuses mainly on working events, not participating in them. He’s part of world class events including the Chicago Marathon, USA Triathlon and the Door County Half Marathon.
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!
Check Your Pace Team on hand to guide runners
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.
Your 2025 Pace Team UPDATE
1:45 (8:01 min/mile)
Chris Schmitz & Raymond Rivera
1:50 (8:23 min/mile)
Chad Otis & Joel Coon
1:55 (8:46 min/mile)
Curt Brey & David Schroeder
2:00 (9:09 min/mile)
Aaron Schneider, Jessica Rein & Jenny Rabas
2:05 (9:32 min/mile)
Jean Lemke & Katie Houle
2:10 (9:55 min/mile)
Aaron Hizon & Ana Andrade
2:15 (10:18 min/mile)
Fred Kramer & Kimberly Huntley
2:20 (10:41 min/mile)
Marty Thomas & Craig Congdon
2:25 (11:04 min/mile)
Jackie Kohlhagen & Angela Bilbrey
2:30 (11:27) min/mile)
Paula Walker & Sara Carter
2024 Pace Team.
May 10
Blossom Run, Egg Harbor 2-mile and 5-mile courses, plus a 1-mile option for kids 12 and under. doorcountyymca.org/events/blossom-run-2
May 25
Maifest Lake to Lake Race, Jacksonport 10k run and 2 mile fun run runsignup.com/Race/WI/Jacksonport/JacksonportMaifest
June 7
Door CANcer Run/Walk, Sevastopol First 2-mile and 4-mile run. doorcancer.com/runwalk/
June 21
Crossroads Trail Run, Sturgeon Bay 10k, 5k, and 2k trail run through the woods, meadows, and orchards in and around Crossroads at Big Creek. crossroadsrun.com
2025 Run Door County rundoorcounty.com
July 19
Washington Island Rec Run, Washington Island 10k, 5k, and 2k walk/ run moslingreccenter.org/events
July 4
Hairpin Run , Fish Creek 5k run/walk to kick off the 4th of July celebration. Door County’s largest 5k run. hairpinrun.com
July 12
Belgian Days Run, Brussels 2-mile, 4-mile run/walk. letsdothis.com/us/e/belgian-days-runwalk-212207
Aug. 9
Shanty Days 5k, kids run, Algoma 5k run/walk, kids superhero fun run visitalgomawi.com/5k-run-walk
Sept. 20
Door County Brewing Co. Hey Hey 5k, Baileys Harbor 5k fun run in Baileys Harbor that starts and ends at the Door County Brewing Co. taproom. Get great swag including a free beer and an awesome shirt! heyhey5k.com
Photo by Brett Kosmider.
Oct. 11
Potawatomi State Park Run Wild, Sturgeon Bay Quarter marathon, 5k run/walk, and 1/3-mile Smokey Bear Run www.runwild.org/run-wild
Oct. 25
Fall 50, Gills Rock to Sturgeon Bay 50-mile solo and relay run from the tip of the peninsula at Gills Rock to the base at Sawyer Park in Sturgeon Bay. Includes prizes for best team name and costume, and a huge post-race party with pizza and beer. fall50.com
Nov. 8
Pen Park Trails Fest
Third edition of a new running experience featuring a 14k and 30k course in Peninsula State Park. penparktrailsfest.com
County
Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay
5k A run in Peninsula State Park
Whether you’re looking for competition or camaraderie, there’s a race for all tastes on the peninsula. You can also take on the challenge of the Run the Door race series by emailing visiting rundoorcounty.com to enter to earn points for each race you participate in. 13.1 mile run, 5k Hailed as one of the best runs in the Midwest, runners enjoy a closed USATF-certified road course that takes you along the shore, through the woods, and atop the bluffs of Peninsula State Park. Finish with music, beer and friends at Nicolet Bay. doorcountyhalfmarathon.com.
PRESENTED BY:
PREMIER SPONS0R:
MAJOR SPONSORS:
RUN FOR A CAUSE SPONSOR: Nicolet National Bank
PACE TEAM SPONSOR: Door County Medical Center
SUPOORTING SPONSORS: Julie’s Park Cafe & Motel | Hayden Water Co. | Birchwood Lodge | GFL Environmental | Flanigan Distributing | On Deck Clothing Company | Destination Door County