Alex's Duck Duck Run
When is Alex's Duck Duck Run?
Alex's Duck Duck Run takes place on Saturday, June 13, 2026 in Saint Joseph, MI.
What distances does Alex's Duck Duck Run offer?
Alex's Duck Duck Run offers 3 events: 1K Kids' Fun Run, 5K Run & Walk, Duck Duck Supporter (T-Shirt Only).
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1K Kids' Fun Run | 1.0 km | $15.00 | Register |
| 5K Run & Walk | 5.0 km | $25.00 | Register |
| Duck Duck Supporter (T-Shirt Only) | — | $25.00 | Register |
How much does Alex's Duck Duck Run cost?
Registration for Alex's Duck Duck Run starts at $15.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Alex's Duck Duck Run held?
Alex's Duck Duck Run is held in Saint Joseph, MI at Margaret Upton Arboretum.
About Alex's Duck Duck Run
The 5K course will take runners and walkers along the beautiful St. Joseph River and two Lake Michigan beaches. Participants will race along Silver Beach, Lions Park Beach and Howard Recreational Trail and then through the Whirlpool Compass Fountain. The race begins and ends at the Margaret Upton Arboretum. The 5K begins at 9 a.m.
The non-competitive 1K fun run (0.62 miles) begins prior to the 5K. With volunteers cheering along the way, the children will follow a paved sidewalk and safe route. Parents are encouraged to run with younger children. All participants will receive a race bib, rubber duck award and t-shirt. The 1K Kids' Fun Run begins at 8:40 a.m.
All proceeds from the event will benefit The Alex Mandarino Foundation, founded by Tony & Katie Mandarino to honor the courage and strength of their son, Alex. The Alex Mandarino Foundation is a 501(c) 3 not for profit organization dedicated to helping save the lives of children with neuroblastoma and other rare pediatric cancers. Our mission is to provide critical funding for research related to the prevention, treatment, and ultimate cure of neuroblastoma. By participating in Alex's Duck Duck Run you are helping fund new medicine that will increase survival rates of kids with cancer.
Visit www.thealexmandarinofoundation.org for more information.
Awards
Medals will be given to the first 2 female and first 2 male finishers in each of these categories for the 5K run: 10 and under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65 and up.

Packet Pick-Up
Friday, June 12: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Packet pick up will take place at Upton Middle School (Parking Lot), 800 Maiden Lane, St. Joseph, MI.
Saturday, June 13: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM, Margaret Upton Arboretum , 600 Water Street, St. Joseph, MI
Race Routes
5K Race Route
The 5K run/walk course will take runners and walkers along the beautiful St. Joseph River and two Lake Michigan beaches. Participants will race along Silver Beach, Lions Park Beach and Howard Recreational Trail and then through the Whirlpool Compass Fountain. The race begins and ends at the Margaret Upton Arboretum.
1K Race Route
The non-competitive 1K run (0.62 miles) begins prior to the 5K. With volunteers cheering along the way, the children will follow a paved sidewalk and safe route. Parents are encouraged to run with younger children. All participants will receive a race bib, rubber duck award and t-shirt. Pre-registration is recommended.
Sponsorship
Are you interested in becoming a sponsor? The Alex Mandarino Foundation is a 501(c)3 tax exempt public charity. All proceeds from Alex's Duck Duck Run benefit childhood cancer research.
CLICK HERE TO BECOME A SPONSOR!
T-Shirts
A t-shirt is guaranteed to all who register by JUNE 1. We strongly encourage you to register early!
T-shirts may not be available on race day for late entrants.