Polar Bear Winter Classic

Polar Bear Winter Classic is a long-standing road race in Indianapolis, Indiana, held on February 27, 2027, and organized by SJC Racing. Three options share the morning: the 5K (3.1 miles) and The Bear at 8:30 a.m., and the five-mile run at 9:15. The Bear combines both races, 5K then five miles, for a little over eight miles of total racing.

Known as one of the oldest races in the city, it carries cash prizes and age-group awards across every format, and finishers receive a medal and a winter hat, with themed apparel available to buy. The combined entry is the interesting one: the trick is holding back on the 5K so you can still run the five-miler honestly 45 minutes later. Details of the post-race celebrations are announced closer to the date.