The Oktoberfest, which draws over 80,000 people to the Village, emphasizes the community's rich German heritage. The people of Minster feel that the Oktoberfest is not just an event; it's a feeling, a spirit, a happy mood that conveys the warmth and friendliness of the community.

An invitation is extended to each one of you to join us and help celebrate the Oktoberfest on the weekend of the first Sunday in October. The Oktoberfest was begun in 1975 by the Jaycees (The Minster Journeyman's Club) and Kiwanis (Minster Service Club) and since has grown each year.

This gala, fun filled festival provides delights for all. Sing and dance to German music. Taste the hearty German foods. Watch the spectacular parade featuring colorful floats, marching bands and many celebrities. See the many events in the Gazebo and the Spazz Plaz. Take part in the beer tray relay, the 10K run, and any numerous other games.

Flat certified 10Kcourse.

The inaugural event in 1957 was won by Ken Honney (Walton A.C.) in 2:35:51.

In 1964 Dale Grieg (Paisley A.C.) set a women’s world record (recognised by ARRS) of 3:27:25.

In 1976 the race was officially opened to women with the inaugural event won by A Lewis (Bromsgrove & Redditch A.C.) in 3:21:06.In 1978 the race hosted the inaugural UK Women’s Marathon Championship.

A brand new course (first used 2013) of one lap featuring the much quieter roads on the west of the island. These are the undulating town and rural roads through Cowes, Gurnard, Rew Street, Porchfield, Shalfleet, Yarmouth, Afton, Willmingham, Thorley, Wellow, Shalfleet, Porchfield, Northwood, Cowes.

Marker boards at each mile point. The course is not suitable for wheelchairs.

Portland is the unrivaled leader of the running world. It is the birthplace of the American distance running movement. It is home to several of the world's largest brands in the active lifestyle industry as well as the most talented athletes in the sport. People get running here.

Businesses, schools, non-profits, and kids get excited about it. Add that local enthusiasm for the sport to the intrigue and allure of Portland culture and you have a recipe for an unbelievably unique and nationally embraced race. With proper guidance, the Portland Marathon will make its way onto the bucket list of every runner in the world.

Brooksee is dedicated to raising the Portland Marathon to the national stage while showcasing the uniqueness of Portland and reinvesting back into the local community.

Brooksee is working with the City and other stakeholders to create a route that is worthy of a world-class marathon while balancing the immediacy of creating and producing a new event in just eight months.

Registration will open as soon as these details are finalized. Rest assured, however, that the long term goal is to create a world-class event and course that showcases the city appropriately even if it cannot all be accomplished in the first year.

The weekend will be of miles, music and celebrations. As California's fastest half marathon, Rock 'n' Roll San Jose features a flat, scenic course drawing first time runners and elites alike.

Top three at 2022 half marathon. Justin Kent clocked 1:02:48 Top woman was Jennifer Bergman clocking 1:12:50

2022 Half Marathon

2023. MBR publisher Bob Anderson with a friend Steve Cryer at the starting line. Bob won the 70 plus clocking 51:44. Steve was second 70 plus in the half marathon clocking 1:49.

2022 half marathon winner

MBR publisher Bob Anderson after finishing the 10k event Oct 9, 2022. Bob clocked 50:06 winning 70 plus.