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

Alex’s Great State Race

October 19 - 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

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…
Group photo
Just a day away from the rivalry matchup on Saturday between Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, a team of ROTC cadets from both universities came together Friday to run 64 miles and honor an MSU student who passed away from cancer…

Support Alex’s Great Race

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

01
Amazing young man
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Rival schools coming together
10
Years celebrating
640
miles and counting