This August, teams of up to eight people will race around Grand Rapids in a community-wide scavenger hunt. Participants will test their trivia knowledge, solve riddles, and conquer challenges as they race their way to first – all for a good cause.  

This will be the third year that United Way of 1000 Lakes hosts The Itascamazing Race, which celebrates the Itasca community while raising funds to support families and individuals in the region. Participating teams have three hours to solve clues on an app, which lead them to locations where they’ll find the answers to trivia questions, take on challenges, and submit photos. Competitors aim to solve as many clues as possible in the allotted time, with points granted for each clue completed. As the clock ticks down, participants race back to the finish line at Rapids Brewing Co. to complete one final challenge. Community members are invited to join racers for a post-race rally at the brewpub to kick off United Way’s annual campaign. 

Participants of all ages are welcome join in the friendly competition, which brings together teams made up of employees, civic groups, friends, and family members. Competitors have the chance to earn a head start by fundraising in advance of the race, allowing supporters to pledge their support to their favorite team. Teams that raise $500 in the Head Start Challenge get 1 minute shaved off of their race time, with an additional minute taken off for reaching $750 and $1,000 fundraising benchmarks. Additionally, the top fundraising team will get a Wild Card draw that allows them an advantage in the race, possibly an early start, additional points, or the chance to sabotage another team. 

Those wanting to join the epic race in pursuit of glory (and a cash prize) can sign their team up at uwlakes.org/itasca-mazing. Race fees for adult participants are $30 if purchased by July 31st, $35 after July 31st, and $40 at the door. Participation fees for youth (ages 6-12) fees are $15 if purchased by July 31st, $20 after July 31st, and $25 at the door. Teams are encouraged to sign up sooner rather than later to access the best registration price and allow more time for fundraising in the Head Start Challenge. 

Event details, registration information, and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at uwlakes.org/itasca-mazing. Businesses looking to get involved through sponsorship or volunteering can contact United Way at 218-999-7570. 

Proceeds from race fees and sponsorship support United Way of 1000 Lakes’ annual campaign, which raises funds to support the organization’s work and investments in programs that build long-term upward mobility for Itasca-area families.

At a Glance: The Itascamazing Race
Date: Thursday, August 24th, 2023
Time: 1 – 4 p.m. (Check-in begins at noon)
Place: Race starts and finishes at Rapids Brewing Co.
Registration: uwlakes.org/itasca-mazing