Strain for the Brain is an annual event held to honor individuals diagnosed with a brain tumor and to celebrate the family and friends there to support them. Brain tumors are a devastating disease that affects 80,000 people and their families each year. The funds raised through Strain for the Brain will directly contribute to advancements in research, medical treatments, and support programs for individuals and families impacted by this life-changing condition. By participating in Strain for the Brain, you will not only contribute to the fight against brain tumors but also showcase your dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by this disease. Persons with any financial limitations please contact organizers to discuss a Fee Waiver. History of Strain for the Brain Mike is a brain tumor survivor who started Strain for the brain in 2010 to raise awareness of this rare disease. The event started small along the lakefront at Veterans Park, originally in May which is brain tumor awareness month. After one particularly chilly event of sleet and snow flurries, it moved to the first weekend of June at Miller Park (currently American Family Stadium) and then to Harley Davidson Museum. Ultimately, the event outgrew that space and has returned to Veterans Park. While Mike had many people help him along the way, it was his persistence and determination to support the cause that kept the event going year after year. Due to the growth of the event, Mike has turned the operations over to Dr. Jennifer Connelly but still is an active participant.
Your race time and age group result are available online after you cross the finish line - select RESULTS from the menu above. The top 3 male & female finishers in 5-year age groups will receive a custom medal. An awards ceremony will take place at the race.
1 Miles: T-Shirt
3.1 Miles: T-Shirt
| Distance | Price | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Miles | $30.00 | Jun 2 | Feb 27 |
| $32.50 | Feb 27 | Mar 29 | |
| $35.00 | Mar 29 | Apr 28 | |
| $37.50 | Apr 28 | May 30 | |
| $40.00 | May 30 | May 30 | |
| 3.1 Miles | $30.00 | Jun 2 | Feb 27 |
| $32.50 | Feb 27 |
| Year | Finishers | Median Time | Fastest Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 762 | 41:44 | 17:33 |
| 2024 | 376 | 45:02 | 18:46 |
| 2023 | 214 | 55:57 | 19:59 |
| 2022 | 245 | 43:47 | 18:31 |
Interested in this race?
| Mar 29 |
| $35.00 | Mar 29 | Apr 28 |
| $37.50 | Apr 28 | May 30 |
| $40.00 | May 30 | May 30 |
Login into RunSignUp.com Select your Profile. Scroll down to the race you would like to modify. Select "Manage Registration". All of the race options will be listed on the menu (transfers, change shirts size, modify team, and change distances)
Parking is available both on-site and along nearby public streets. To help keep things running smoothly, we encourage all participants to carpool, pick up their packets early, and arrive at the event with plenty of time.