In Grand Rapids this weekend more than 10,000 athletes will share the experience of running in the largest and one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the country. The River Bank Run 25km race can proudly announce its 24th annual edition since it premiered in 1978.
Few cities have embraced a road race like Grand Rapids and Old Kent Bank. Its natural setting along the Grand River has attracted solid pockets of spectators, competitive carnivalistic aid stations and world-class competition. What was once the reign of local Greg Meyer has given way to the best American talent as well as Kenyan dominating performances.
Runners from all corners of the state have made the River Bank Run a must on their list of races to do. From its start near the elegant Amway Grand Hotel, amble past the Gerald Ford Museum or finish next to the giant Calder sculpture, the course alone would be enough to capture your interest in coming to this race.
Other amenities steer the best as well as the mid packers to make River Bank Run a destination. The expansive expo in the Grand Center is first class and also features the annual Michigan Runner's of the year awards. The post race recognition, party and pre race pasta dinner are festive and family oriented.
Locals have always been superb hosts to runners and spectators. You can't help feeling that they have your interest and attention once you arrive. Runners dominate the restaurants, shops and parking areas providing everyone with the magic of being in the center of a main event.
Prestige has been personified through many outstanding performances including two world records. Last year's Franz Nietlispach set a new wheelchair record (52:44) and no one on earth has topped Kenyan Joseph Kariuki 's (1:13:55) performance in 1998. Kariuki has continued to dominate the race the last three years and he plans to defend his title this year.
The performances have been helped by $54,000 in prize money plus another $20,000 in world record challenges. To aid Americans, $21,000 of the total has been earmarked for US citizens only.
The River Bank Run has been selected as the25km USA National Championship for Men and Women since 1995 and it is also the only 25km wheelchair racing event in the world. For an event that started with just 1,000 in 1978 it is a credit to its organizers that they have impressively created excitement and a strong commitment from its community, sponsors and runners year after year.
Special Request: The Free Press Marathon Elite Runner Committee is looking for people that would be willing to serve as a host and home for invited athletes during the week of October 14th. Please call the marathon office at 313 222-6676 or email: [email protected]
Upcoming Race of the Week: Island RoadRunners Memorial Day Run, 1 Mile and 6 Mile, Grosse Isle, Monday, May 28th, 8:30am. For more information call 734 282-1101
Contact Doug Kurtis at Detroit Free Press, 600 W. Fort St. Detroit, 48226
or [email protected]
