The Sherman Lake YMCA Kids ROAR returns to Augusta, Michigan on September 14th, inviting young adventurers aged 5-14 to take part in a day filled with challenges and fun. This year marks the event's tenth anniversary, turning the scenic grounds of Sherman Lake into an obstacle-filled playground designed specifically for kids. The race is not just about running; it’s a full adventure featuring mud pits, water crossings, color stations, monkey bars, and more. Families are encouraged to join in with adult registration at $10 per parent or guardian.
Kids ROAR - Adults (Ages 15+)
Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $10.00
Kids ROAR - Kids (Ages 5-14)
Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $20.00
The atmosphere on the day of Kids ROAR is electric as children gather near Sherman Lake, eager to embark on their unique journey through the park's challenging course. The morning light filters through the trees casting dappled shadows across the soft trail surfaces and mud pits that await participants. Friends cheer from the sidelines while parents snap photos at designated color stations where kids are splashed with vibrant hues of blue, pink, green, and yellow. There’s a palpable sense of community as everyone comes together to support young athletes overcoming obstacles both physical and mental.
Since its inception in 2016, Kids ROAR has grown from a small local event into an anticipated annual tradition for the Augusta area. Each year sees increased participation with over two hundred kids taking part on race day. The event not only offers fun but also raises funds for the YMCA’s youth programs and community initiatives that benefit families in need within Michigan's communities. Parents often comment on how much their children look forward to this annual adventure, making it a cherished highlight of autumn sports activities.
The course itself winds through Sherman Lake Park, featuring soft trails with firm footing suitable for muddy conditions. Participants navigate over sandbags, crawl under nets, and scale monkey bars before diving into the water stations scattered throughout the route. The one-mile option is designed to be less challenging but still packed with excitement while the two-mile variant adds more obstacles and distance, catering to those looking for a bigger challenge.
Registration opens at Sherman Lake Park where participants can pick up their bibs between 8:00 am and 9:30 am on race morning. Adults who register prior will receive an official Kids ROAR t-shirt as part of the entry fee. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that they don’t mind getting dirty, and bring a water bottle for hydration along the route.
The start location is situated at Sherman Lake Park, located off 12 Mile Road in Augusta, Michigan. Children ages 5-7 must be accompanied by an adult during their race to ensure safety. Parents who wish to join in on the adventure can register online or onsite as outlined above and will receive a t-shirt included with registration fees.
After crossing the finish line under blue skies or light rain showers typical for early September, participants are invited to stick around for post-race games and refreshments at Sherman Lake Park’s picnic area. With temperatures averaging 19 degrees Celsius (66 Fahrenheit) throughout race day, runners should prepare for a comfortable but possibly damp experience with the potential of occasional drizzles.
The Sherman Lake YMCA Kids ROAR on September 14th promises to be another memorable adventure in Augusta, Michigan, uniting young and old alike for an exciting morning at Sherman Lake Park.
