The Solstice Run
- By Doug Kurtis

It's not too late to register for Northville's Fifth Third Bank Solstice 5km Run/Walk on June 26 th .   In just two years it has become one of the classiest races in Michigan.   With the addition of the Mustang Mile and plans for an additional race next year, look for this event to zoom up to Michigan's top ten list.

There are many things that have made this race exceptional. Race Director Alan Whitehead has secured a number of key sponsors that have taken an active role in the event.   Fifth Third Marketing VP Jack Riley, a runner himself, has lent his support and ideas to the race.   Fifth Third Bank sponsors two other major races, the River Bank Run in Grand Rapids and the Turkey Trot in Detroit.   Comcast will telecast the event to 59 cities across the state with Michigan Radio and Television sponsoring the Mustang Mile and broadcasting daily spot ads.   Boston Marathon winner, Greg Meyer will be lending his speaking talents to the coverage. Few running events get this kind of exposure.   Fraternal order Foresters is providing many of the volunteers needed for registration, packet stuffing and water stations. They are also sponsoring the Kids Fun Run.

Whitehead's team of experienced staff members meticulously handles race details. Mark Cryderman, a former Northville Councilman, has created a course that showcases historic Victorian homes of downtown Northville. He also moved the start to the livelier central business district.   Cryderman and Whitehead were instrumental in adding the Mustang Mile, named after the High School Mascot. The super fast Mile course, starting at Hillside Middle School has an overall net elevation drop of 200 feet!

Team members such as registration chairman Erik Trimble once directed Northville's RoadRunner Classic and his organizing skills support Howell's Fantasy 5km.   Bob Smith will use his start/finish line set up experience from the Free Press Marathon and Phil Hartley another stalwart of the Classic is directing the Mustang Mile. My connection to these men and races makes it easy to be an integral part of this cohesive team.

Northville's Park's and Recreation was the main benefactor of the Solstice's charitable program. Five other organizations will also receive donations from non-profit, Solstice Group Inc.

The pond and park of Mill Race Village and Ford Field make the Solstice event an ideal location to finish.   Few race have as many post race activities and awards. Two bands and a Hula Dance Troupe are expected to perform. To promote the upcoming Victorian Festival, locals dressed in historical costumes will serve as greeters and course cheering stations.

The Outdoor Sponsor Expo will be held at the finish-line area next to a bountiful food & beverage buffet.   Tethered balloon rides, clowns and moonwalks will return for the kids. Families can also discover Northville from a Horse drawn carriage ride.   Several elite runners have already signed up to compete for the $6,000 in prize money and gift awards. Age group winners will receive specially embossed lunch coolers or pilsner glasses. For more information, call Running Fit at 248 380-3338 or go to www.solsticerun.org .