About the Sunburst Races

Sunburst Races is one of the Midwest's most exciting athletic events. The marathon and half marathon provide a beautiful course along the scenic St. Joseph River; the 10K and 5K runs provide the speed and excitement of the shorter distances and the 5K walk supports general fitness.

Sunburst was started by a dedicated group of marathoners who wanted to host an Indiana marathon in South Bend. The South Bend Tribune was the founding sponsor. Memorial Hospital, WSBT TV and WSBT Radio Group joined the Tribune as major sponsors shortly thereafter. The first Sunburst was held on Notre Dame's Alumni Reunion weekend in June, a tradition that continues today. The University continues its support of Sunburst. Our mission is community health and fitness. Any proceeds from the event benefit Memorial Children's Hospital and the service programs of the Notre Dame Alumni Association.

What began as a marathon in 1984 has grown over the years into five race-day events. There is also the Friday night packet pickup festival and Family Walk for close to 500 participants.

For 28 years Sunburst has inspired individuals and the community to aspire to health and fitness. Sunburst's mission is to continue that call to health and fitness. None of Sunburst's success would be possible without the hundreds of volunteers, the sponsors and participants who make Sunburst run.

Sunburst History

  • 1984 marked the inaugural Sunburst.
  • Race events were derived from the local American Lung Association's Lung Run, of which The South Bend Tribune was a supporting sponsor.
  • As interest in the Lung Run waned, the Tribune became a sponsor of the Sunburst. Their hope was to create an event that would both benefit the local Lung Association and the community. They aspired to provide a quality event that would both attract area residents and out-of-town participants.  
  • The first race corresponded with Notre Dame Reunion weekend. The University of Notre Dame continues its support today.
  • In 1991, Memorial Hospital joined The Tribune as a major sponsor.
  • In 1992, WSBT TV and the WSBT Radio Group became major sponsors.
  • In 2007, Sunburst registration grew to more than 7,000 total participants in six events.
  • 2012 marks the 29th running of Sunburst.