A group of MSU students running together, carrying an American flag

Alex’s Great State Race

October 20, 2023
Ann Arbor, MI to East Lansing, MI

Alex Powell

About Alex

Alex Powell's short life is a testament to the courage, tenacity and spirit that epitomize the best in both Wolverines and Spartans. Learn more about the extraordinary young man for whom this race is named.

Supporters watching the race

About the Great State Race

Since 2014, ROTC cadets from MSU and UM have joined together to run 64 miles from East Lansing to Ann Arbor and present the home team with the game ball for the rivalry football game. Learn more about how this celebration continues to grow.

University of Michigan and Michigan State University ROTC members walking Alex's Great State Race

Track the Ball

RaceJoy provides an interactive experience for live tracking. The RaceJoy experience includes Cheer Sending by remote spectators, progress alerts at every mile, and automated virtual results submission. RaceJoy will allow for instant progress of the game ball and ROTC cadets as they make the trek from University of Michigan to Michigan State University. Race details in the RaceJoy App will come in October 2023.

News & Media Coverage

Adaptive Sports participants nearing the finish line at the 2022 AGSR Race.
Two institutions, who are rivals, come together each year on the eve of the Michigan vs. Michigan State Football game to honor one great person, Alex Powell, and for one great cause—Alex’s Great State Race (AGSR). Since 2014, ROTC cadets from both MSU…
A team of football players running together carrying an American flag
October 28, 2022 ~ Juliana Powell, Mother of Alex Powell of “Alex’s Great State Race," talks with Guy Gordon about bringing Michigan State and Michigan together to raise money and scholarships in honor of her son.
Listen on Apple Podcasts:…
Alex's Great State Race banner
Michael Patrick Shiels’ personality-based, news making show covers state, national and international politics in a non-partisan manner. Michael Patrick skillfully mixes politics, which he affectionately refers to "as the family business" with…

Support Alex’s Great Race

Alex's Great State Race raises money for the MSU Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities and U-M Student Accessibility and Accommodation Services. Learn more about how you can get involved and make a positive impact on the lives of these students.

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Amazing young man
02
Rival schools coming together
10
Years celebrating
640
miles and counting