Origin Story
Built by local runners in the middle of a pandemic, Bandit Races was born out of our obsession with marching to the start line, taking a deep breath, and seeing what we’ve got that day.
Our first event was a 10 mile time trial dubbed “Bootleg Crim.”
Our crew obsessed over finding the right course, created a Strava segment, and put out turn signs and water stops on race day. About 40 runners turned up after a group text thread / email went viral. When we rang a cowbell at the start line that morning, Bandit Races was born.
A few weeks later, 98 runners put on a bib for Moonshine Mile, a one mile loop around the campus of Jolly Pumpkin Kitchen & Ales in Dexter, MI.
We added chip-timing and free race photos, and had a ton of help from our friends at Ann Arbor Running Company.
Runners approved, and our team went on to host a 13.1 mile time trial on 10/31/2020 creatively named Halloween Half, and two 10K time trials. Eventually, we dreamt up our flagship event, A2Zukey Relay, and knew we had something special on our hands.
Going forward, our team is committed to the following beliefs / principles when planning running events:
Filling a Void in the Marketplace
In order for us to move foward with a race, our concept must serve a unique purpose in our running ecosystem. How do we know when we’ve found the right course? When runners ask the question, “Why isn’t there a race out here?”
Supporting Local Businesses
Our timers, photographers, sign makers, venue owners, and even our donut vendors are all based in Michigan. We are supported by Ann Arbor Running Company, PR Run Club, Subaru of Ann Arbor, A2 Race Management, Michael Parker Photography, Econprint, and Happy Planet Running.
Moonshine Mile is hosted by Jolly Pumpkin’s Dexter location, and we encourage our runners to celebrate a speedy mile with a celebratory ale.
A2Zukey Relay finishes at Zukey Lake Tavern in Pinckey, and is the perfect waterfront setting to revel in your team’s success.
Affordable & Inclusive
Our races are modest in cost, and welcoming to all members of our community. Our goal for every race is to break even, and create the best user experience possible for the fastest and slowest runners alike.
Built For Runners
We do everything we can to enhance the race day experience. Our courses are unique, well marked, and meticulously thought out. We have zero interest in finisher medals, cheap swag, or virtual options. T-shirts are usually optional, and sold at cost.
Run Fast // Run Local,
Bandit Races
