2006 Fifth Third Bank Solstice Run
- By Doug Kurtis
Free Press Columnist

Few races offer hot air balloon rides, top flight entertainment, family activities and a charming course. Northville's Fifth Third Bank Solstice 10km and 5km Run/Walk boasts that "this event is a special experience".   Word of mouth seems to give credit to this tag line. After just four years it has become one of Michigan's most popular races.

Race Director Alan Whitehead has already received a record number of pre race entries with each race running about even in participation. Last year, as Course Operations Director, I designed a new certified 10km run course. Although its hills are challenging, the new distance helped raise attendance to more than one thousand.

This Saturday morning, the 10km will traverse past luxurious homes in Northville's township and city at 7:30 am.   Karen Newman will be back singing the national anthem at the start of the 5K event at 8:45 am.   The Fifth Third Solstice Run has also partnered with Foresters to mobilize the hundreds of volunteers needed as well as organize the kid's fun run at 8:35.

With its Victorian atmosphere and neighborhoods accustomed to parades, the Solstice is tailor made for spectators and deserving of a first class race. The pond and park of Mill Race Village and Ford Field make a picturesque location for the finish area.  

According to Whitehead, "Few races in Michigan provide our entertainment value. Headliner band Ultra Violet returns to the main stage at Ford Field while other musicians perform out on our courses.

Comcast has made a significant commitment to telecast the event statewide. Former Boston Marathon winner, Greg Meyer along with runner/writer Mary Beth Dillon will serve as commentators. 

The newly named Northville Road Runners will serve as the host running club and course marshals. At the finish line expo, locals will be encouraged to sign up for one of their weekly runs from Maybury State Park or Hillside Middle School. With Hines Park, historic downtown, small lakes and a few hills, Northville, both the city and township, are an ideal place for running.

Whitehead has utilized his marketing expertise to secure a solid sponsorship program.   It has put the race in a position to donate proceeds to a number of local charitable and non-profit organizations such as Northville's Parks and Recreation.

During the past three years, title sponsor Fifth Third Bank has made a commitment to the event while anchoring the bank to the community. "Supporting races reflects the level of professionalism we live by, and provides volunteer opportunities for our employees", said Fifth Third Bank Vice President Jack Riley. "We believe the Solstice Run has grown into one of the premiere regional running events.   We expect a huge turnout because it brings together great race management and sponsors who are devoted to its success."

The Fifth Third Solstice Run has also partnered with Foresters to organize the kid's fun run and mobilize volunteers. "Foresters measures its success by the positive impact we have on local communities and the children who represent the future," says Deb DesChenes, race volunteer coordinator and President of Foresters local member branch.

Both defending champions in the 10km plan to return. Boaz Cheboiywo won both the 5 and 10km last year. Another former Eastern Michigan University All American, Steve Crane, will be back.   The Hanson-Brooks Distance Running team is bringing in half a dozen athletes including Olympic Trial marathoner Clint Verran.

Last year's 5km champ, Laurel Park will have serious challengers this time around. HBDR's Desiree Davila finished consistently at 16 minutes while competing for Arizona State. Solstice 10km champ Leigh Daniel plans to switch to the 5km.

The Solstice Run offers elites over $3,000 in prize money and gift awards. Plus age groups winners go home with some fun merchandise prizes.

Pre race packet pick up is available Friday at the Waterwheel Health Club at Griswold and Main Street. You'll find plenty of parking just a block south at Northville Downs harness raceway. Volunteers are still needed. For more information, call Running Fit at 248 380-3338 or go to www.solsticerun.org .

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