The official Grandma’s Marathon training group, led by certified coach Tony Stensland, is designed to prepare you for a successful race day.
Whether you’re participating in the marathon or half marathon, this is the perfect place to gain confidence while feeling the camaraderie and support of other, like-minded runners!
Training Group Format and Benefits
WHAT YOU GET: Group runs, event-specific training plan, and individual support and resources from a USATF- & RRCA-certified coach. Participants will have the option to select beginner, intermediate, or advanced training levels for either the half or full marathon.
GROUP RUNS: There will be a total of 65 group runs in the Duluth-Superior area over 22 weeks, beginning in January — Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 8:00 a.m. (7:00 a.m. beginning in April).
TIMELINE
- Optional Informational Meeting: January 7, 2025
- Meeting at 5:00 PM at the Grandma's Marathon Office: 351 Canal Park Drive, Duluth MN.
- 1st Day of Training Group: January 21, 2025
- Last Day to Sign Up: March 1, 2025
- Race Day: June 21, 2025
About Coach Tony Stensland
Tony Stensland is a certified coach with USA Track Field & Field (USTAF) and Road Runners of America (RRCA) and has a level 3 certification from the Lydiard Foundation. He has been coaching runners since 2009.
Stensland has seen great success with both groups and individuals, helping hundreds achieve personal running goals ranging from first-time marathoners to Boston Marathon qualifiers.
A Duluth area resident, Stensland has long been involved with Grandma’s Marathon and holds a deep passion for helping his runners become the best versions of themselves.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE’S BAD WEATHER?
If it’s necessary to cancel a group run due to inclement weather, participants will be notified as soon as possible via email.
WHERE WILL MOST GROUP RUNS BE HELD?
All group runs will be held in the Duluth-Superior area, but the most often used locations will be the Rose Garden, Canal Park, and Lester Park in Duluth.
CAN YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE TRAINING GROUP IF YOU’RE NOT RUNNING A GRANDMA’S MARATHON WEEKEND EVENT?
Yes. The signup for your marathon weekend event is separate, so everyone is invited to participate in the training group if desired.
WHAT IS THE REFUND AND/OR TRANSFER POLICY?
Training program fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Contact information
- Event contact
- Alivia Nelson
- Phone
- 218-727-0947
- Website
- Visit website
