Portage Extra Mile Youth Running Camp

Embark on an exciting summer adventure with the Portage Extra Mile Youth Running Camp, a dynamic program designed to ignite a passion for running in young athletes aged 5-13. Kicking off on June 11, 2026, in Portage, Indiana, this four-week camp provides a fun and supportive environment at the scenic Woodland Park for participants to develop their skills. The camp culminates on July 11, 2026, with the exhilarating Extra Mile One Mile Challenge, a goal race included with camp entry.

Led by experienced coaches, the camp offers weekly practices filled with engaging running-related exercises, drills, and games, all centered around a fun theme, which for 2026 is Willy Wonka/Candy Land. Typical race day conditions in early to mid-July for the region often see comfortable highs around 82F and lows around 60F, with a low 14% chance of precipitation, creating pleasant running weather. Beyond the training, the Extra Mile Youth Running Camps aim to introduce over 500 youth to running and cross country, fostering a positive experience that can inspire a lifelong love for the sport.

The Extra Mile One Mile Challenge, held at the Valparaiso Family YMCA Pavilion, offers a flat mile course, ideal for young runners to test their progress. This competitive yet encouraging event features a wave start, with participants grouped by age, and even provides opportunities for parents to run in separate waves. More than just a race, proceeds from the One Mile Challenge are dedicated to supporting local middle and high school cross country programs, demonstrating the event's commitment to nurturing the next generation of runners.