Running organizations support Detroit
- By Doug Kurtis
Free Press Columnist

There are two parts to today's column, both involving assistance to City of Detroit residents through running organizations. This Saturday (Feb 25th), the second annual Heat the Streets run and walk for warmth will be raising funds for energy cost relief. And the Motor City Striders are hoping that graduating seniors at Detroit Public Schools will take advantage of a rare opportunity offered to male and female cross country runners through the Ramsey scholarship fund.

Heat the Street 10k/5km run & walk has selected Deputy Mayor, Anthony Adams to serve as Grand Marshal. Shenetta Coleman, Executive Director for the Department of Human Services stated, "With that support, I would like to challenge all the City of Detroit staff members, the running and walking communities, and the people of southeastern Michigan to take part in this event that is aimed to assist thousands of families who are struggling to pay their utility bills."

Last year's inaugural Heat the Streets raised $80,000, which was received from 830 participants and 100 volunteers. HTS received six national awards for its marketing campaign promoting a desperate need in Detroit and Michigan.

In addition to new courses for the event, Ms. Coleman has implemented a corporate challenge with a special trophy and certificate to the team with the most participants. And an individual who raises the most funds will be awarded a special travel package to the Grand Traverse Resort.

Registration and the race start have moved this year to co-sponsor Blue Cross Blue Shield building on East Lafayette just east of Greektown. 100% of the entry fees go toward families who need it and DTE Energy matches those funds. Packet pick-up is available on Friday and before the 5 and 10 km race starts this Saturday at 8:30 am. On-line registration is also available at www.heatthestreets.org .

Young Detroiters can also look to a different type of support by way of the Motor City Striders. Those who plan to attend college and have run cross country the last two years should apply to the running club. Last year, they created the Ramsey Memorial Scholarship in the names of James and Julia Ramsey.

The Motor City Striders wanted to recognize the Ramsey's contribution to runners in Detroit.   Jim Ramsey did not start his running career until age 69 but proved to be an inspiration to many runners of all ages. He competed in marathons into his nineties and set a U.S. age group record that still stands.

Last year, Mykia Long of Mackenzie High, who is now attending University of Michigan and Robert Gunn of Central High, now attending Alabama State, were the recipients of the awards. Detroit Public School cross country runners have until March 15th to apply. Requirements include a minimum 3.0 average and two letters of recommendation. They must have also competed in the City of Detroit cross country championship and/or the regional or state championships.

Each public high school Athletic Director should have applications otherwise email the Striders at [email protected]. They can be sent to the Striders c/o Ramsey Scholarship Award, 10144 Lincoln, Huntington Woods, MI 48070.

Contact Doug Kurtis at Detroit Free Press, 600 W. Fort St. Detroit, 48226