Governor's Council Endorsements

The following events received endorsement from the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports in 2000.  Click on the name of the month to go to that month's events.

January February March April
May June July August
September October November December

March

Power Challenge
March 8, 2000
Midland
Sponsored by the Midland Community Center, the goal of the Power Challenge is to perform a series of one-repetition maximum within the weight class.  Weight classes are at 15-pound increments, with between 8 and 12 classes.  Events include squats and bench press and are open to men and women.  This Challenge is for those wanting to compete for power, not endurance.

For more information, contact Jodi Spiker, Adult Fitness Coordinator at the Midland Community Center, at (517) 832-7937, ext. 232.

April

Endurance Challenge
April 8, 2000
Midland
 The Fourth Annual Endurance Challenge is sponsored by the Midland Community Center.  The goal is to perform as many repetitions as possible based on a percentage of the participant's body weight.  Events include bench press, barbell curl, and squats.  The Endurance Challenge is open to men and women.

For more information, contact Jodi Spiker, Adult Fitness Coordinator at the Midland Community Center, at (517) 832-7937, ext. 232.

May

Mason State Bank 5K Run/Walk
May 5, 2000
Mason
Events include a 5K run/walk, a children's one-mile run/walk, and a 100-yard dash for children ages six and under.  The event raises funds for the Mason area schools.

For more information, contact Jim Leasure at (517) 676-8921.

Calvin 5K Spring Classic
May 6, 2000
Grand Rapids
The Spring Classic features a 5K run/walk, as well as a 1K Family Fun Run for all ages.  Following the race, donated prizes are given away and awards are announced.  All proceeds go to student scholarships.

For more information, contact Rachel Vandenbroek, Calvin College Alumni Office, at (616) 957-6801 or rvbroek@calvin.edu.

Wayne County Parks Family Fun and Fitness Day
May 6, 2000
Detroit
The Family Fun and Fitness Day will feature guest lecturers on health, fitness, safety-related issues and interactive leisure activities, demonstrations and clinics.  There will be exhibitors, entertainment for youth and adults, and inflatable rides.  There is no charge for any of the activities.

For more information, contact Linda Jiménez, Executive Director of the Get Active Detroit Fitness Council, at (313) 577-5134 or ljimene@coe.wayne.edu.

Biathlon at the Tridge
May 13, 2000
Midland
The Biathlon at the Tridge offers short and long courses for bikers and runners of all abilities.  The short course consists of a 2-mile run and a 10-mile bike ride.  The long course covers a 5K run, 35K bike ride, and 5K run.  Awards will be given to the overall winners for male and female, as well as awards for age division winners.

For more information, contact Chris Eichbauer, Fitness Facility Coordinator at the Midland Community Center, at (517) 832-7937, ext. 232.

Heart and Sole Runs
May 13, 2000
Chelsea
Chelsea Community Hospital sponsors 5K and 10K competitive runs, a 2-mile fun run, and a 2-mile walk.  The goal is to promote good exercise habits in the Chelsea community.

For more information, contact Russ Billau, Chelsea Community Hospital, at (734) 475-3930.

Vicksburg Hearty Hustle
May 13, 2000
Vicksburg
The Vicksburg Hearty Hustle is a 5K and 1 mile walk/run.  Everyone's a winner at this event, whether they just "get moving" or beat a personal record.  All participants are eligible for prizes.  The Hearty Hustle's goal is to help families learn how easy it is to become more active and improve their heart health.

For more information, contact Tonya Nash, Community Education Director at Vicksburg Schools, at (616) 321-1020.

Cooley 5K Race for Education
May 20, 2000
Lansing
The Cooley 5K involves runners, walkers, and wheelers in a race around downtown Lansing that starts and finishes at the Capitol.  A children's race around the Capitol and other children's activities are also planned.  

For more information, contact Terry Franklin, Cooley Law School's Director of Communications, at (517) 371-5140, ext. 2916.

Leggin' it at Lincoln
May 20, 2000
Grand Rapids
Held as a fundraiser for Mercy Respite Center, which provides respite care to families with developmentally disabled children and adults, Leggin' it at Lincoln features a 5K race, a 10K race, and a 5K fun walk. 

For more information, contact Joal Bydalek, Program Manager at Mercy Respite Center, at (616) 458-4559.

Michigan 400 Inline Championships
May 20, 2000
Muskegon
Racing takes place on a 400-meter flat asphalt oval track closed to traffic.  There are separate age and ability level divisions from novice to recreational and pro.  The meet consists of a 5K, 10K, and a series of three sprint distance events.  This is the first major regional inline race of the season and sets benchmark times for participants.

For more information, contact Mark Jastrzembski with the West Michigan Speedskating Club at (231) 828-4627. 

Sixth Annual Michigan Open Tae Kwon Do Championship
May 20, 2000
Brighton
Held as a fundraiser for D.A.R.E. and other children's charities, the Michigan Open is open to participants of all ages and skills.  

For more information, contact Kil's Tae Kwon Do at (810) 227-1991.

Old-Fashioned Days 5K/10K Road Run
May 20, 2000
Fruitport
Sponsored by the Fruitport Lions Club, the week-long Old-Fashioned Days offer many events, including a 5K/10K road run. 

For more information, contact Dan Leaver at (231) 865-3573.

Run by the Bay
May 20, 2000
Bay City
Events include a 5K Run, 5K Walk, 10K Run and a Kids Run, all taking place at the Bay City State Recreation Area and adjacent Tobico Marsh.  The event gives runners and walkers an opportunity to participate in their sport; half of the proceeds are donated to the Friends of the Park.  

For more information, contact Greg Rankin, Race Director, at (517) 684-3487.

Starker-Mann Biathlon
May 20, 2000
Gaylord
The Starker-Mann Biathlon features a variety of events, with a short course for novices and beginners and a long course for more experienced individuals and teams.  The short course is a 1.5 mile run, 10 mile bike ride, and .25 mile run.  The long course is a 5K run, 30K bike ride, and 5K run.  Awards are given in a variety of divisions and on both courses.

For more information, contact Pam Duczkowski with the Gaylord Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at (517) 732-6333.

Zoo-de-Mackinac
May 20, 2000
Harbor Springs
The Zoo-de-Mackinac is a 51-mile bicycle ride from Harbor Springs to Mackinaw City.  Registration is required to participate in this event.  The route starts at Boyne Highlands Resort and follows the Lake Michigan shoreline along a little-used paved road.  

For more information contact Greg or Doug Drawbaugh at (248) 549-1072.

National City Kids' Run
May 26, 2000
Ann Arbor
The National City Kids' Run is a non-competitive fun run which seeks to encourage children to become physically active by presenting the run as a fun event in which every child is a winner.  Each child receives a t-shirt, goodie bag, and medal.  Distances are 50 yards to 2 miles depending on age.  A children's fitness educator does an interactive warm-up, runs with and encourages the children, and performs a post-race magic fitness show.  

For more information, contact Renee Rienas at (734) 429-6576. 

John Jarvi Jr. Memorial Run
May 27, 2000
Ironwood
The John Jarvi Jr. Memorial Run is a 10K/5K walk-run event which includes a high school/middle school "team" challenge, a Tot Trot, and a wheelchair division.  The event raises money for area youth sports programs.

For more information, contact Michelle Kanipes with the Easy Striders Running Club at (906) 932-6058.

Tour-de-Lakes 2000
May 29, 2000
Oakland County
Organized by the Working Wheelers Cycling Club, the Tour-de-Lakes 2000 is a self-paced bicycle tour through the scenic lake country of western Oakland County.  It is intended to encourage bicycling for physical fitness and health and to demonstrate the value of bike-riding as an alternative mode of transportation for commuting and local errands.  The tour will include 50 km and 100 km routes; areas included are the townships of West Bloomfield, Commerce, Milford and White Lake and the cities of Walled Lake, Milford, and Wolverine Lake.

For more information, contact Fred Dore, Tour-de-Lakes 2000 Organizing Committee Chair, at (248) 553-7764.

National Senior Health and Fitness Day
May 31, 2000
Saginaw
This event is intended to promote fitness for seniors.  Activities include blood pressure checks, a walking clinic, chair exercises, ballroom dancing, therapeutic touch, and yoga.

For more information, contact Janet Sahr, assistant program director of the Saginaw YMCA, at (517) 753-7721, ext. 309.

2000 Summer Games
May 31 - June 3, 2000
Mt. Pleasant
The Special Olympics' Summer Games offer three days of activities and competition for 3,400 athletes.  Competitors are placed in divisions based on age, gender, and ability.  Participating in Special Olympics helps athletes develop self-esteem, confidence, and interpersonal skills.

For more information, contact Lois Arnold, Executive Director of Special Olympics, at (517) 774-3911.

June

Oakland County Sports Camp
June - August
Oakland County
The Oakland County Sports Camp allows youths the opportunity to participate in a number of games and activities.  The one-week sessions include traditional sports such as soccer, basketball, and kickball, as well as games such as "Capture the Flag," "Crazy Kickball" and "Tank Dodgeball."  The camp stresses sportsmanship and leadership throughout the week.  Campers are expected to be competitive, fair, and have a good time.  Camp counselors are expected to be coaches, role models, and friends.  All campers receive a certificate of completion upon finishing a session.

For more information, contact James Dunleavy with Oakland County Parks and Recreation at (248) 858-4647.

Wayland Road Runners Races
June - August
Wayland
Races are held weekly beginning June 7 and running through August 9.  All runs start at 6:30 p.m.; lengths vary from 3 mile to 7 miles.  The goal is to bring together athletes of all ages and abilities for ten evenings of fun and competition.  Awards will be presented after the August 9 run.

For more information, contact Ray Antell III, president of the Wayland Road Runners, at (616) 672-9483.

Hanson Hills Challenge Trail Run
June 3, 2000
Grayling
The Hanson Hills Challenge is a five-mile run over hilly and sandy terrain, following the Yellow Trail of the Hanson Hills Little Smoky Cross Country trails.  More relaxed runners can choose to follow the Green Trail across gently hill and sandy forest terrain.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (517) 348-9266.

Trailside 5K Run
June 3, 2000
Waterford
Presented by the Camp Fire Boys and Girls North Oakland Council, the Trailside 5K Run consists of a competitive 5K run and a one-mile fun walk.  Proceeds from the event help send low-income, at-risk youth to the North Oakland Council's summer day camp program.

For more information, contact Margie Williams, Executive Director of the Camp Fire Boys and Girls, at (248) 618-9050.

Tulip City 5K
June 3, 2000
Holland
The Tulip City 5K runs through downtown Holland; proceeds benefit the "Higher Horizons" Big Brothers/Big Sisters program of Ottawa County.  The goals of the race are to promote a healthy community, provide family entertainment, increase awareness of the Higher Horizons program, and raise funding for the program.

For more information, contact Mick Koster, Director of Development, Child and Family Services of Western Michigan, at (616) 396-2301.

Westwoods 5K Race and Walk
June 3, 2000
Traverse City
A fundraiser for the Westwoods Elementary School Playground Committee, this run is designed for both the serious competitor and the weekend jogger.  The walk encourages regular and occasional walkers to take a scenic tour of a family-oriented subdivision.  Children can participate in a fun run where everyone receives an award.

For more information, contact Keri McCumber, assistant race director, at (231) 929-7729.

Rural Rush
June 9, 2000
Overisel
The Rural Rush features a 5K road race and a one-mile fun run.  Proceeds benefit the Hamilton High School track and cross country programs.  The goal of the event is to develop an interest in running in students and adults in the community.

For more information, contact Amy Nelson, cross country coach at Hamilton Community Schools, at (616) 399-8933.

National 24-Hour Challenge
June 17-18, 2000
Middleville
Sponsored by the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club, the 24-Hour Challenge provides an opportunity for bicyclists of all ages (over 18) to see how far they can ride in a day.  Available classes include age groups for both men and women, three tandem classes, and two recumbent classes.  All bicyclists ride a 125-mile loop, followed by a 22-mile loop, and then a 6-mile night loop.  All participants receive a certificate of verified mileage and a copy of the results book.  Mileage pins are given for 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 or 450 miles.  The event gives a 1,000-mile jersey for accumulated miles in an event.

For more information, contact Diane Obermeyer with the Rapid Wheelmen at (616) 241-1969.

Fudge Classic 5K and 10K
June 17, 2000
Mackinaw City
Sponsored by the Greater Mackinaw Area Chamber of Commerce, the Fudge Classis offers a 5K and a 10K race through Mackinaw City and the surrounding countryside.  Trophies and fudge are awarded to the top overall and masters overall male and female winners of both races.

For more information, contact Penny Vance, Executive Director of the Greater Mackinaw Area Chamber of Commerce, at (231) 436-5574.

June 18, 2000
Mackinaw City
The Mackinac Bridge Jog is only open to runners over age 13 who participated in one of the Fudge Classic races and finished the 5K in less than 30 minutes or the 10K in less than 60 minutes.  Those who qualify will jog across the Mackinac Bridge.

For more information, contact Penny Vance, Executive Director of the Greater Mackinaw Area Chamber of Commerce, at (231) 436-5574.

July

Bessemer Hometown Run
July 1, 2000
Bessemer
Part of Bessemer's Fourth of July celebrations, the Hometown Run features a 10K and 2-mile walk/run.  The goal is to encourage as many people as possible to be active.  Many age divisions are offered to allow many winners.

For more information, contact Paulette Schwartz, race director, at (906) 663-4848.

Run for Funds
July 1, 2000
Northport
The Run for Funds is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society of Leelanau County consisting of a 10K and 2-mile fun run.  The event is held during Northport's Harbor Days.

For more information, contact George Anderson, Race Director, at (231) 386-5341.

Pickerel Run
July 2, 2000
Algonac
The Pickerel Run is sponsored by the Algonac Lions Club and benefits Leader Dogs for the Blind, as well as other charities.  All age groups are eligible to participate, from "minnows"  (under 7) to those over 70.  Events include the Minnow Run, a 5K race, a 10K race, and a 5K competitive walk.

For more information, contact John Gibson at (313) 530-2407.

Run to the Border
July 2, 2000
Sault Ste. Marie
Held as part of the two-week-long Soo Locks Festival, the Run to the Board features a 5K and 10K race.  All proceeds go back into the community.

For more information, contact Maxine Anderson, vice president of the Soo Locks Festival, at (906) 632-6299. 

Hanover Firecracker
July 4, 2000
Hanover
Sponsored by the Hanover-Horton 4th of July Committee, the Hanover Firecracker offers a competitive 5-mile road race and a 5K non-judged walking race between Horton and Hanover.  There is also a Kids' Fun Run of a half mile, in which every participant wins.  Proceeds from the event help offset the cost of the 4th of July fireworks show.

For more information, contact Jeffery Heath, Race Director, at (517) 563-2125 or jlheath_htf@yahoo.com

Tortoise and Hare 5K
July 4, 2000
Ann Arbor
The Tortoise and Hare 5K provides the community with a fitness program and encourages them to complete a 5K run/walk.  In addition to the 5K event, there is a children's run.

For more information, contact Matt Holappa, president of Tortoise and Hare Events, at (734) 769-9510.

Fit Kids - Healthy Future
July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2000
Ann Arbor
Care Choices Healthplan, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor, and the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Department are collaborating to provide free swimming every Friday in July for children under 17 at three outdoor community pools in the Ann Arbor area.  The three pools are at Buhr Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and Fuller Park.  

For more information, contact Beth Montalvo, Communications Manager at Care Choices, at (248) 489-5216.

Metro Detroit Youth Day
July 12, 2000
Detroit
Metro Detroit Youth Day was formed in 1982 to promote better positive relations between the community, businesses, government, and youth.  In addition, the event encourages youngsters to pursue college and motivates them to be physically active.

For more information, contact Ed Deeb, President, Michigan Food and Beverage Association, at (810) 979-6322.

Michigan Flavorbest Apple Run
July 15, 2000
Sparta
The Flavorbest Apple Run consists of a 5K run, a noncompetitive 5K walk, and a children's fun run.  Medals and awards are given to the top five finishers in each of the 14 age groups for both male and female; middle of the pack awards; team trophies; family team trophies; and other awards.  The event is designed to educate consumers about the Michigan apple industry and the importance of eating five fruits and vegetables a day.

For more information, contact Dawn Geers, Race Director, at (616) 887-8052. 

Road Runner Classic
July 22, 2000
Northville
Presented by the Redford Road Runners, the event consists of an 8K run/walk and a 1-mile run/walk.  The goal is to promote health and exercise through running.

For more information, contact Bomar Sprauer at (248) 449-9290.

Tuuri Race Day
July 22, 2000
Flint
Tuuri Race Day was established in 1980 as a way to promote physical activity and raise funds for the care of ill children in the Flint area.  Today it includes a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk, children's challenge, and one-mile celebration walk.

For more information, contact Kay Kelly, Special Projects Coordinator at Hurley Medical Center, at (810) 257-9930.

Ellen's Race
July 23, 2000
East Lansing
Ellen's Race is a 5K race/walk in memory of Ellen, a young girl who died six years ago.  Participants are encouraged to bring their families and to move at their own personal speed, whether that is a slow walk or a fast run.  Proceeds from the race benefit Pinecrest Elementary School, which Ellen attended; Ele's Place for grieving children; and the Michigan Capital Girl Scouts.

For more information, contact Sue Granger or Gerald Osborn at (517) 351-5573.

Discover Stevensville Run/Walk
July 29, 2000
Stevensville
Part of the Discover Stevensville Festival, the Run/Walk offers a 5K run, 10K run, and 5K walk.  

For more information, contact Mary Ann Kelm, race director, at (616) 429-1197.

GRA 10K
July 29, 2000
Grayling
Part of the AuSable River Festival, the GRA 10K is a 10K run presented by the Grayling Recreation Authority.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (517) 348-9266. 

Red Devil Challenge
July 29, 2000
Holton
Sponsored by the Holton High School Cross Country Team, the Red Devil Challenge is a 5K run/walk.  

For more information, contact Ray McLeod, Horton High School Athletic Director, at (231) 821-2729.

Run/Walk Around Eagle Lake
July 29, 2000
Eagle Lake
A 5-mile run/walk around Eagle Lake, the event begins and ends at Camp Kidwell, the Allegan County 4-H camp.  Proceeds from the run/walk will benefit the Allegan County 4-H Clubs and their $1.75 million expansion effort.

For more information, contact Herb Johnson, run coordinator and Allegan County 4-H board member, at (616) 521-4477.

August

Bayfront Wellness Cup
August 5, 2000
Petoskey
Sponsored by Northern Michigan Hospital, the goal of the Bayfront Wellness Cup is to provide an inexpensive, family fitness event.  Events include a non-competitive one-mile fun walk, a non-competitive 5K walk, and competitive 5K and 10K runs.  

For more information, contact Sue Blankenhagen, with the Northern Michigan Hospital Foundation, at (231) 487-4766 or sblankenhagen@northernhealth.org.

Free Fair 5K
August 5, 2000
Ionia
The Free Fair 5K is held in conjunction with the Ionia Free Fair.  The course passes through downtown Ionia and is scenic, flat and fast.  There are 12 age divisions with medals for the first three finishers in each division; trophies are given to the first male and female finisher.

For more information, contact John Skeel, Ionia Parks and Recreation Director, at (616) 523-1802.

Nautical City Festival Run for Your Health
August 5, 2000
Rogers City
Sponsored by the Rogers City High School Cross Country Team, the event consists of 5K and 1-mile running and walking races.  The goal is to promote running and walking as exercise, as well as to raise funds for the Rogers City cross country teams.

For more information, contact Charlie Fairbanks, Rogers City High School CC Team Head Coach, at (517) 734-4243.

Cheesetown Challenge Races
August 12, 2000
Pinconning
The Cheesetown Challenge is designed to provide a quality, healthful, family fun event which promotes fitness and community pride.  Events include a 5-mile run, a 2-mile run/fun walk, and a "Little Meeces" run with distances from 100 yards to 1/4 mile for children up to age 8.  Awards of some type are given to all participants.

For more information, contact Marty Schultz, race director, at (517) 879-5617 or capt.marcheese@centurytel.net.

Italian Festival Criterium
August 13, 2000
Grand Rapids
Sponsored by the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club, the Italian Festival Criterium offers bicycle races on the streets of downtown Grand Rapids over a 1K course.  The event is sanctioned by the United States Cycling Federation.  Races for licensed riders include juniors, women, masters 35+, masters 45+, senior category 2/3 and senior category 3/4.  A one-day license is available for category 5 beginners.

For more information, contact Diane Obermeyer with the Rapid Wheelmen at (616) 241-1969.

Arc Ice Sports Health Fair
August 16, 2000
East Lansing
This is a health fair designed to inform the public of the importance of nutrition, health, and exercise.  Held at the Arc Ice Arena, exhibitors include Lifeline, Sparrow Hospital, McLaren Home Care, Tri-county Office on Aging, Home Helpers, Lansing Skating Club, Fitness USA, and demonstrations of yoga, massage, and arometherapy.

For more information, contact Ellie Huntoon at (517) 626-6846.

Falcon 5K
August 19, 2000
Dearborn
Dedicated to the memory of Mark Carpenter, the Falcon 5K includes a 5K run through neighborhood streets and a 1-mile fun run around the park.  The event is intended to provide a fun family fitness event for runners and occasional athletes while raising funds for the Divine Child Alumni Association to support student activities and scholarships.

For more information, contact Jeanine DeGuzman, event coordinator, at (248) 426-7497 or deguzman@tir.com.

Sunset 5K
August 19, 2000
Ann Arbor
The Sunset 5K is a walk/run through Domino's Farms which begins at 7:30 p.m., allowing participants to view the sunset as they enjoy the surroundings.  Music and pizza will be available after the event.  Proceeds from the Sunset 5K go to the Easter Seals Society of Southeast Michigan.

For more information, contact Ann Boyd Stewart, president of Athletic Ventures LLC, at (734) 332-3981 or a1boyd@aol.com.

September

Jessica's Race for a Cure
September 2, 2000
Petoskey
The event consists of a 10K race, a 5K race, and a 1-mile fun run/walk.  The goal of the race is to raise awareness of and funds to find a cure for spinal muscular atrophy.

For more information, contact Ryan Hagan, president of the Petoskey Running Club, at (231) 535-7079.

Shoreline Spectacular 10K Inline Race
September 2, 2000
Muskegon
This is an end-of-the-season inline event for the Midwest; it also serves as a fundraiser for the Alzheimer's Association.  

For more information, contact Mark Jastrzembski with the West Michigan Speedskating Club at (231) 828-4627. 

Scotty Hanton Road Races
September 3, 2000
Port Huron
The races consist of a full marathon, a half marathon, and an 8K course.  Eleven age groups are available.  All marathon finishers will receive a medal as a memento; awards will also be given to the top three finishers in each age group for all events.

For more information, contact John Haas at (810) 364-4555 ext. 2731 or jfhaas@yahoo.com.

Re/Max Partners - Children's Miracle Network 5K Run and Balloon Raising
September 15, 2000
Royal Oak
A 5K cross country run begins at 7 p.m., with an awards presentation and cookout at 8 p.m.  Tethered hot air balloon rides are offered from 8 to 10 p.m.  Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Children's Miracle Network.

For more information, contact Keena Catanzaro at (248) 288-8751 or remaxkeena@aol.com.

Peacock Strut
September 16, 2000
Portage
Events in the Peacock Strut include a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk, and a 1-mile Kids' Fitness Caper.  The goal is to promote fun, fitness, and community awareness, as well as to raise funds for the Portage Community Outreach Center (PCOC).

For more information, contact Diane Schrock, Portage Community Outreach Center Director, at (616) 323-1942.

5th Annual International Terry Fox Run
September 17, 2000
Detroit/Windsor
The Terry Fox Run includes an 8K run, a 5K walk, and a free family barbecue.  The run begins at Fiesta Gardens in Mexicantown, Detroit, and ends at Malden Park in Windsor, Ontario.  The event raises awareness and money for innovative cancer research.  The funds are used by the National Cancer Institute of Canada and the Karmanos Cancer Institute to further research into early detection, treatment, and cures for all cancers.

For more information, contact Martha Button, Special Events Associate at Karmanos Cancer Institute, at 1-800-KARMANOS.

Mud Creek Crawl
September 23, 2000
Sanford
The Mud Creek Crawl includes 5K and 10K running races which are held off-road on hiking and biking trails.  The goal is to provide a competitive event for recreational runners and to promote the use of the county parks system.

For more information, contact John McPeak at (517) 835-3291.

Michigan Big 10 Run
September 24, 2000
Ann Arbor
A fundraiser for the American Lung Association, the Michigan Big 10 Run consists of three races:  a 10 mile, 10K, and one-mile walk/race.  Unique to these events are the Asthma Athlete and Pulmonary Rehab participants.  Proceeds from the race support local Lung Association programs and projects.

For more information, contact Debra Sackett, regional manager of the American Lung Association, at (734) 994-0155.

Run/Walk for Shelter 5K
September 30, 2000
Jackson
This event is a 5K road race for runners and walkers.  There is also a half-mile fun run for children.  Proceeds benefit the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Jackson.

For more information, contact Walter Pascal, race director, at (517) 780-7165.

Shugars Run for Kids
September 30, 2000
Fort Custer Recreation Area
Held at Fort Custer Recreation Area in Augusta, the event includes 5K and 10K runs and a 5K walk; the event raises money for needy children and their families for their health care needs.

For more information, contact Debbie Shugars, Race Director, at (616) 343-4004.

October

Biketoberfest
October 7, 2000
Boyne Mountain
Participants in Biketoberfest ride from Boyne Mountain Resort to Charlevoix.  Route lengths vary from 20 to over 100 miles.

For more information, contact Greg or Doug Drawbaugh at (248) 549-1072.

Hartwick Pines Challenge
October 7, 2000
Grayling
The Hartwick Pines Challenge is a 7.2-mile run through Hartwick Pines State Park, following the "Weary Legs" ski and biking trail.  The trail passes through rolling hills covered with pine, beech, birch and aspen, never leaving the woods.  A free, one-mile walk along the Virgin Pines Foot Trail is also available.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (517) 348-9266. 

Colorburst
October 14, 2000
Lowell
The Colorburst is a recreational bicycle tour offering various routes of different lengths.  The goals of the event are to promote bicycling on safe roads and to raise money for Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

For more information, contact Carolyn Peacock at (616) 975-2633.

Homecoming Campus Classic
October 21, 2000
Western Michigan University
Events in the Campus Classic include a 5K run, 1K kids' fun run, and a 1K fun walk.  The goal is to bring more community members to Western Michigan University during Homecoming.

For more information, contact Matt Kurz, Associate Vice President for University Relations, at (616) 387-8401.

Run for the Son
October 21, 2000
Portage
Events included in the Run for the Son are a 5K course certified run, 5K timed walk, 1K family fun run/walk, and children's activities.  Food and prizes will also be available for participants.  The event is intended to raise funds and awareness for the Kalamazoo Deacon's Conference while promoting fitness and fun for the community.

For more information, contact Laura Jager, race coordinator, at (616) 353-4256.

Trick or Trot presented by Ford Motor Company
October 28, 2000
Northville
The Second Annual Trick or Trot 5K benefits pediatric cancer research at Children's Hospital of Michigan.  Events include a 5K run/walk, a half-mile Tot Trot, and children's entertainment.

For more information, contact Colleen Rieckhoff with Leukemia, Research, Life Inc. at (734) 454-7341.

November

Subaru Iceman Cometh Challenge
November 4, 2000
Kalkaska
The Subaru Iceman Cometh Challenge is a 27-mile point-to-point mountain bike race.  The course begins in Kalkaska and ends in Traverse City.  The event is intended to attract new participants to cycling, and also to demonstrate that bike riding is a practical means of transportation.

For more information, contact Steve Brown, president of Iceman Promotions, at (231) 922-5926.

Trinity United Methodist Church Health Fair
November 5, 2000
Lansing
Open to church and community members alike, the Health Fair runs from noon to 5 p.m. and offers blood pressure checks, flu shots for $10, and a variety of other health-related booths.  The fair is designed to encourage health and wellness for all participants.

For more information, contact Ellie Huntoon at (517) 626-6846.

Grand Harvest Run
November 11, 2000
Grand Junction
The Grand Harvest Run is a 5K fun run to promote a good and healthy atmosphere for those who enjoy running, jogging, or walking for health in a beautiful outdoor setting.

For more information, contact R. Doc Stevens at (616) 434-6844.

Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis
November 18, 2000
Flint
The Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis is a 5K run/walk to benefit the 43 million Americans with arthritis.  The event also includes a children's half-mile run known as the "Snowman Shuffle."  The purpose of the run is to increase awareness of arthritis and raise funds for the Arthritis Foundation.

For more information, contact Chip Werner, Development Manager at the Arthritis Foundation, at (248) 424-9001, ext. 26 or AAFD@arthritis.org.

December

Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis
December 2, 2000
Detroit
The Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis is a 5K run/walk to benefit the 43 million Americans with arthritis.  The event also includes a children's half-mile run known as the "Snowman Shuffle."  The purpose of the run is to increase awareness of arthritis and raise funds for the Arthritis Foundation.

For more information, contact Chip Werner, Development Manager at the Arthritis Foundation, at (248) 424-9001, ext. 26 or AAFD@arthritis.org.

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