44th Annual – Polar Bear Winter Classic

Race Overview: A race coming up on 2026-02-28 in Indianapolis, IN. Get all the nerdy details below or follow the sign up links to secure your spot today!
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Race data last checked: 2025-12-24

Race Overview:

Saturday, February 28th – Polar Bear Winter Classic

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. 

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