Vaske, Sigsworth Win 2026 Fitger's 5K in Duluth

The annual race through downtown Duluth saw record participation this year.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:05pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting runners, the Fitger's complex, and the shores of Lake Superior, all broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes and vibrant colors.The vibrant, geometric energy of the Fitger's 5K race captures the spirit of Duluth's active outdoor community.Duluth Today

The 2026 Fitger's 5K in Duluth, Minnesota saw victories by Megan Vaske in the women's division and Ethan Sigsworth in the men's division. The annual race through the city's downtown area drew a record number of participants this year, with over 3,500 runners crossing the finish line.

Why it matters

The Fitger's 5K is a beloved community event in Duluth, celebrating the city's active outdoor culture and drawing runners from across the region. The high turnout this year signals growing interest in the race and the continued popularity of running events in the area.

The details

Megan Vaske, a 28-year-old Duluth native, finished the 5K course with a time of 16:45, setting a new personal best. Ethan Sigsworth, a 31-year-old from Superior, Wisconsin, won the men's division with a time of 15:12, just edging out last year's champion. The race featured a scenic route through downtown Duluth, starting and finishing near the iconic Fitger's complex along the shores of Lake Superior.

  • The 2026 Fitger's 5K took place on April 18, 2026.
  • The race has been an annual event in Duluth since 1982.

The players

Megan Vaske

A 28-year-old Duluth native who won the women's division of the 2026 Fitger's 5K with a time of 16:45, setting a new personal best.

Ethan Sigsworth

A 31-year-old runner from Superior, Wisconsin who won the men's division of the 2026 Fitger's 5K with a time of 15:12, just edging out last year's champion.

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What they’re saying

“It was an amazing experience to win my hometown race. The energy of the crowd really pushed me to run my best.”

— Megan Vaske, Women's Division Winner

“The Fitger's 5K is such a special event for the Duluth running community. I'm honored to have won this year and be a part of the tradition.”

— Ethan Sigsworth, Men's Division Winner

What’s next

The Fitger's 5K will return to the Duluth running calendar on April 17, 2027.

The takeaway

The strong turnout and competitive performances at the 2026 Fitger's 5K showcase Duluth's thriving running culture and the continued appeal of community-based athletic events that bring the city together.