Manitowoc, WI – May 2026
On May 9, Lakeside Foods was proud to be part of one of the Midwest’s most beloved trail running traditions. The Ice Age Trail 50, held annually in Wisconsin’s Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest, welcomed runners from across the country for its 44th edition. Lakeside Foods was there every step of the way—to sponsor, to volunteer, and to participate.
One of the oldest continuously running ultramarathons in the country, the course winds through dense deciduous forests, tall pines, rocky ridges, and open prairies. Along the way, runners pass lakes, kettles, kames, and other natural features left behind when glaciers retreated from Wisconsin more than 10,000 years ago. The event has become a true rite of spring for Midwest trail runners, with a post-race atmosphere—complete with food, beer, and music—that is as much a tradition as the race itself.
Fueling the Race, From Aid Stations to the Finish Line
Lakeside Foods’ involvement went well beyond our logo on a webpage. Our people and products were woven into the experience throughout race day. At aid stations along the course, we stocked trail-running staples, including boiled potatoes and meat sticks—simple, energizing foods that help runners stay strong across long miles.
After the race, Lakeside Foods contributed to the post-race meal, with vegetable blends rounding out the finish-line spread.
This kind of hands-on participation reflects what Life in Motion, Naturally means in practice. Food plays a central role in the shared experience that makes events like this worth showing up for.
Lakeside People on the Course
Our connection to the race was personal—not just logistical. Lakeside Foods’ SVP of Operations, his daughter, and the Director of Brand Marketing completed the half-marathon. This served as a great training event ahead of Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota, this June, for some of the Lakeside Foods crew.
That kind of commitment—showing up, putting in the time, and participating fully with our partners—speaks to the culture at Lakeside Foods.
A Partnership Rooted in Wisconsin
Race Director Jeff Mallach and his team deliver a grassroots event that punches well above its weight. Duesterbeck’s Brewing Company and Glen’s Market & Catering also played integral roles in bringing the total event experience to life, and we were proud to be in such good company.
For Lakeside Foods, sponsoring the Ice Age Trail 50 is a natural extension of who we are as a Wisconsin company. The Southern Kettle Moraine is not just a backdrop—it is part of the landscape we call home. Events like this connect our products to the active, outdoor lives of our neighbors.
To learn more about the Ice Age Trail 50 and sign up in 2027, visit:
iceagetrail50.com