Panther Spirit Race

Lace up your running shoes and embrace the community spirit at the Panther Spirit Race, taking place on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in DeWitt, MI. This lively event, headquartered at St. Jude's Catholic Church, serves as the primary fundraiser for the DeWitt Cheer Program, offering a healthier and more engaging alternative to traditional fundraising. Runners can choose from a range of distances including a 5K (3.1M) run/walk, a Kids' Mile, and a 100-meter dash, ensuring there's an event for every member of the family to participate. Typical race day conditions in mid-August feature pleasant highs around 81°F and lows around 60°F, with a minimal 13% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

The Panther Spirit Race promises a vibrant atmosphere with music playing at the start and finish line, which are both conveniently located at St. Jude's Catholic Church at 801 N Bridge St. All participants will be rewarded with a finisher medal to celebrate their accomplishment. This event is a fantastic opportunity to support local cheerleaders and is strategically organized so that participants can easily attend the DeWitt Parade afterward, with a recommendation to wear your finisher medal in support of the cheerleaders who also walk in the parade.

Experience a professionally managed race with chip timing provided by the Michigan Running Foundation, offering live results throughout the event. The Panther Spirit Race is also proudly part of the Greater Lansing Area Race Series, adding an exciting competitive element for those involved in the series. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying a fun family outing, the Panther Spirit Race offers a rewarding experience for all.