Become a Member
We cordially invite you to join Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) and become part of our family of more than 500 runners. Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) is the largest running club in the State of Michigan and membership includes exceptional benefits, the opportunity to make new friends, and support and encouragement for runners of all abilities. We offer quality training programs and events, group runs, race discounts, service provider and merchant discounts, and more throughout greater Kalamazoo, Portage, and Battle Creek.
Join now at our low annual membership rates:
*Membership runs one year from the date you join or one year from your current expiration date if you are an existing KAR member.
Member Benefits
- Access to Our High-Quality Training Programs (additional program fee applies) Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program (Kalamazoo) (January - April)
- Fast Track 5k & 10k Training Program (Kalamazoo) (Spring 2026 April 5 - June 10) & (Fall July 28 - September 22)
- Summer Beyond Half and Full Marathon Training Program (Kalamazoo) (June - October)
- Get Ready to Run (Beginner Program) June 16 - July 21, 2026
- FREE Group Runs in greater Kalamazoo and Battle Creek
- FREE Run Around Gull Lake (First Saturday of the Month in November and December)
- Race Discounts
- Service Provider and Merchant Discounts
- Automatic participation in the Club Championship Series and year-end celebration
- Annual Runner Recognition Awards
- Volunteer and Leadership Opportunities
Kalamazoo Area Runners (KAR) serves as an organizer, co-organizer or supporter of the following events:
- Winter Blast Half Marathon, 10k & 5k
- KAR Annual Banquet
- Kal-Haven Trail Run
- Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon & Half
- Kalamazoo Klassic 5k & 10k & Kids' Klassic (with MRC Industries, Inc.)
- Battle Creek Half Marathon and 5k
- Club Championship Series Party & Awards Ceremony
- Thanksgiving Turkey Trot Time Prediction Run 5k
- Breaking Barrier 5k/1k Run, Walk and Roll (New for 2026!)