Athletic Competitions
Athletic competitions are a Syttende Mai tradition. 2025 marks the 53rd anniversary of the Syttende Mai Classic. New this year: The loop course starts and ends at Anderson Complex (at Stoughton High School). Not only are we changing the routes this year, we’re changing the distance. The Syttende Mai Classic is now a Half Marathon Run and Walk, 5K Run and 2 Mile ‘Lil Run. The timing chips start with the opening shot, so don't be late! The festival's Viking Games Competition has become a United States Strongman sanctioned event and draws competitors and fans from across the country. There is an athletic event for everyone, whether you run or walk in the 2-Mile Lil’ Run, paddle your canoe down the Yahara River, or cheer on your favorite Viking from the sidelines.
SYTTENDE MAI CLASSIC REGISTRATION PAGE
Our Syttende Mai Classic encompasses our 2-Mile ‘Lil Run, New 5K Run, and New Half-Marathon Run and Walk
VIKING GAMES
10th Annual Strongman Competition
Saturday, May 17, 2025
Bring out your inner Viking Warrior at Syttende Mai’s United States Strongman sanctioned competition!
Divided by weight class, amazing male and female athletes battle to be the best in five unique challenges testing strength, stamina, and heart. Competitors go head-to-head in contests such as the Atlas Stone, Conan’s Wheel, Frame/Hercules Hold, Tire Flip, and Viking Press.
This is a regional event sanctioned by United States Strongman, Inc. Viking Games competitors have an opportunity to qualify for U.S.S.C. Nationals.
Whether you are a competitor or a spectator, these games will pump you up and bring out your inner Viking Warrior.
The event is limited to the first 50 registrants.
USS Membership Application (must be completed prior to registering for the Viking Games)
Registration is coming soon. Be sure to follow the games on Facebook.
Event information available on the registration link.
2024 RESULTS
53rd Annual Syttende Mai Classic Run
Saturday, May 17, 2025 - First race at 7:30 am
The Syttende Mai Classic is one of Wisconsin's longest running races.
Register prior to April 17th to secure your race shirt.
HALF MARATHON RUN WHAT YOU GET:
Official Race Bib
Unisex Event T-Shirt
Participant Medal
Coupon for a free beer, redeemable at Syttende Mai Entertainment Tent
Post-Race Food/Snacks
Free Digital Race Photos
Professional Race Timing With Fast, Accurate Results
Fully supported Aid Stations & Course
A scenic course of Classic Stoughton!
HALF MARATHON WALK WHAT YOU GET:
Official Race Bib
Unisex Event T-Shirt
Participant Medal
Coupon for a free beer, redeemable at Syttende Mai Entertainment Tent
Post-Race Food/Snacks
Free Digital Race Photos
Fully supported Aid Stations & Course
A scenic course of Classic Stoughton!
Please note the half-marathon walk is untimed
5K RUN WHAT YOU GET:
Official Race Bib
Unisex Event T-Shirt
Participant Medal
Coupon for a free beer, redeemable at Syttende Mai Entertainment Tent
Post-Race Food/Snacks
Free Digital Race Photos
Professional Race Timing With Fast, Accurate Results
Fully supported Aid Stations & Course
A scenic course of Classic Stoughton!
2-MILE LIL' RUN
Join a Syttende Mai tradition by participating in The Lil’ Run! This 2-mile run/walk is open to all ages. The race is not timed. Strollers and wheelchairs welcome. No pets allowed. Off-road trails are included.
WHAT YOU GET:
Official Race Bib
Event T-Shirt
A fun experience for the little ones to test their athletic ability
Race-finish photos
For up-to-date race information, Like and Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
CANOE THE YAHARA RIVER
49th Annual 3.5-Mile Paddle
Friday, May 16, 2025
Canoe Start: 6:30pm SHARP
The Syttende Mai Canoe Route is 3.5-mile going down the Yahara River, with one portage at the Forton Street Bridge in downtown Stoughton ending near Mandt Park on Riverside Drive. The traditional race launch point is 2714 Yahara Rd, 53589.
2025 Application - Coming Soon!
Online Form and payment - Coming Soon!
Registrations received after May 1st are not guaranteed a race-day shirt!
For Festival updates, be sure to Like and Follow us on Facebook!
