Gabriele “Gabe” Grunewald was more than an elite middle-distance runner—she was a symbol of courage, resilience, and joy in the face of the unimaginable. A lifelong Minnesotan from Perham, Gabe’s journey began as a walk-on at the University of Minnesota, where she rose to become an NCAA All-American and one of the nation’s top 1500-meter runners. She went on to compete professionally for Brooks, inspiring fans on and off the track.

But Gabe’s greatest legacy extends far beyond racing.

Gabriele faced multiple bouts with cancer—initially diagnosed with a rare salivary gland cancer, adenoid cystic carcinoma, in 2009, and thyroid cancer in 2010. She continued to train, compete, and live fully, rallying a community around her with the phrase “Brave Like Gabe.” What started as a hashtag became a movement of hope. After 10 years with ACC, Gabriele passed away on June 11, 2019.

Gabe lived by a powerful mantra: “Until further notice, celebrate everything.” She embraced each day as a gift, finding meaning in milestones big and small, especially birthdays.

In that spirit, the annual Brave Like Gabe 5K is more than a race—it’s a celebration. A celebration of life, of community, and of the strength it takes to keep going. Held in honor of Gabe’s birthday, this event brings people together to run, walk, and remember while raising critical funds for rare cancer research.