Governor's Council Endorsements

The Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports was founded to promote the health benefits of physical activity. Individuals who are physically active have lower rates of heart disease, stroke, colon cancer, breast cancer and osteoporosis as compared to those who are inactive. Therefore, the Council endorses local, regional, or statewide events that have sound physical activity content consistent with its mission to Get Michigan Moving.

If you are interested in receiving an endorsement application, please call the Michigan Fitness Foundation at (800) 434-8642, send an e-mail message to ghanna@MichiganFitness.org, or click here for a printable copy of the application.

The following events have received the Governor's Council endorsement for this year. Click on the name of the month to go to that month's events. (To see a list of events endorsed in 1999, click here; for events endorsed in 2000, click here.)

January	February	March	April
May	June	July	August
September	October	November	December
January 2002	February 2002	March 2002	April 2002
May 2002	June 2002	July 2002 ^{New event!}	August 2002
September 2002	October 2002	November 2002	December 2002

Year-Round

Wolverine State Horseshoe Pitchers Association
Tournaments held year round across the state

All Wolverine State Horseshoe Pitching (WSHPA) events are sanctioned by the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association. The WSHPA holds sanctioned tournaments on most weekends in 16 Michigan cities throughout the year, including during the winter in an indoor facility.

For more information, contact Dave Loop, president of the WSHPA, at (517) 263-5211 or visit the WSHPA web page at www.horseshoepitching.com/wshpa.

January

Noquemanon Ski Marathon
January 27, 2001
Marquette
Sponsored by the Superiorland Ski Club, events include a cross-country ski marathon, a half-marathon, and a short youth ski event.

For more information, contact Jon Mommaerts, Chairman of the Superiorland Ski Club, at (906) 228-5564.

Michigan Winter Triathlon
January 28, 2001
Muskegon
The Michigan Winter Triathlon provides an opportunity for people to try out three sports: luge, ice speedskating, and cross country skiing. Clinics for each sport will be held to provide beginners with the skills necessary to compete in any unfamiliar event. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each division. Proceeds from the event benefit the state park youth programs.

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

February

White Pine Stampede
February 3, 2001
Mancelona
The White Pine Stampede includes a 50K and 20K cross country ski race and a 10K timed cross country tour. The event is intended to provide both competitive and recreational cross country ski experiences for skiers of all abilities. Proceeds from the Stampede benefit the Children's Hospital of Michigan and the Northern Michigan Hospital Foundation.

Fit Kids, Healthy Future Ice Skating Program
February 4, 11, 18, 25, 2001
Ann Arbor
Co-sponsored by Care Choices HMO and the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Department, this program will allow children ages 17 and under to ice skate for free on Sundays in February. Free skating will be offered at the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation ice rinks, Veterans Ice Rink, and Buhr Rink during the general and family skate hours on Sundays.

For more information, contact Pam Henderson, Care Choices HMO, at (248) 489-5080 or henderp@trinity-health.org.

Winter Wolf Challenge
February 10, 2001
Grayling
The Winter Wolf Challenge is a winter triathlon which includes a 45-minute to one hour one-man boat event, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (989) 348-9266.

April

Healthy Kids' Day
April 7, 2001
Kalamazoo
Healthy Kids' Day will be held at the Kalamazoo YMCA's Maple Program Center, the Portage Program Center, and the Sherman Lake YMCA. Activities will include a youth fitness challenge, raffles, shoe clinic, soccer demonstrations, swimming contests, face painting, and refreshments.

UM Heart Care Stampede of Races
April 7, 2001
Ann Arbor
The Stampede of Races and Health Expo includes 20K, 10K, 5K, mile, and half-mile runs/walks. The expo includes 40 booths of traditional and alternative medicine and sports-related products. The goal of the event is to raise funds for mitral valve disease research and clinic care at the University of Michigan Mitral Valve Clinic, raise awareness and educate the public about heart disease, and bring attention to alternative medicine research and practices for general health and sports specifically.

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

Healthy Habits: Exercise Your Options
April 11 - June 11, 2001
Grand Rapids
Spectrum Health is encouraging residents of Kent County to increase their exercise. Over the course of 10 weeks, citizens can participate at Spectrum Health, YMCAs, or YWCAs for organized activities or engage in activities around their home. A calendar of events will be provided for those who register. Each participant is asked to return a card listing how many minutes they exercised during this 10-week period. The names will be placed in a drawing at the end of the program; $500 prizes are available for three groups--general community, schools, and Spectrum Health staff.

For more information, contact Mary Kay Russell, Director, Office of Health Advocacy at Spectrum Health, at (616) 391-1592 or marykay.russell@spectrum-health.org.

Community Road Run and Walk for Hospice
April 21, 2001
Flint
Proceeds from the Community Road Run and Walk will benefit the Community Home Health and Hospice, which provides services to patients that are not covered by insurance or when individuals are unable to pay.

For more information, contact Mary Lloyd, Community Relations Coordinator at Community Home Health and Hospice, at (810) 733-7250 or commhhh@selectos.com. You may also visit their web site at www.commhhh.com.

The MS Walk
April 21, 2001
Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Midland
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The MS Walk is a fun way to join thousands across the country and help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. The money raised (89 cents of every dollar) will be used for research and programs for people living with MS in Michigan.

For more information, contact Gina Izer, Senior Development Manager with the Michigan Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 218 or gina.izer@mig.nmss.org.

The MS Walk
April 22, 2001
Jackson
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The MS Walk is a fun way to join thousands across the country and help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. The money raised (89 cents of every dollar) will be used for research and programs for people living with MS in Michigan.

For more information, contact Gina Izer, Senior Development Manager with the Michigan Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 218 or gina.izer@mig.nmss.org.

Michigan State Double Dutch Jump Rope Tournament
April 28, 2001
Detroit
Select double dutch jump rope teams will compete to represent Michigan at the national level.

For more information, contact Velonda Thompson of Mo' Better Health at (313) 543-7600 or mobetterhealth@aol.com.

May

Reggie McKenzie Foundation Athletic Clinics
May - July 2001
Highland Park
The athletic clinics teach children and their parents that through hard work, dedication, and determination, they can accomplish a great deal in their lives. A variety of clinics are offered for children ages 8 through 18. Participants connect with coaches, players, Olympic hopefuls, and professional instructors to learn more about their favorite sport. Students learn leadership, fair play, strategy, and teamwork. Clinics are available for tennis, golf, football, basketball, and track and field.

For more information, contact Eleanor Blackwell, director of the Reggie McKenzie Foundation, at (313) 869-8081.

Grattan Bicycle Race Series
May 3, 2001
Grattan
Held every Thursday through August 30, the series includes all levels of competition, from entry level to experienced riders. The goal is to improve bicycle racing skills and fitness levels through weekly training. Races are held on a two-mile course which is closed to motor vehicles and average 40 miles a night.

For more information, contact John or Diane Obermeyer with the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club at (616) 241-1969 or mss321@aol.com.

Mason State Bank 5K
May 4, 2001
Mason
Events include a 5K run, 5K walk, one-mile children's run for those 12 and under, and a 100-yard dash for children 6 and under. The event is intended to promote the sport of running/walking and raise money for local schools.

7th Annual Michigan Open Tae Kwon Do Championships
May 5, 2001
Brighton
Held as a fundraiser for D.A.R.E., the Michigan Open is open to participants of all ages and skills. The emphasis in all competitions is on safety; during sparring matches, proper pads must be worn and rules must be followed.

For more information, contact Kil's Tae Kwon Do at (810) 227-1991 or ykil@cac.net or visit their web site at www.kilstkd.com.

The MS Walk
May 5, 2001
Frankenmuth, Warren
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The MS Walk is a fun way to join thousands across the country and help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. The money raised (89 cents of every dollar) will be used for research and programs for people living with MS in Michigan.

For more information, contact Gina Izer, Senior Development Manager with the Michigan Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 218 or gina.izer@mig.nmss.org.

The MS Walk
May 6, 2001
Ann Arbor, Birmingham, Dearborn, Detroit, Grosse Pointe, Lansing, Marquette
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The MS Walk is a fun way to join thousands across the country and help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. The money raised (89 cents of every dollar) will be used for research and programs for people living with MS in Michigan.

For more information, contact Gina Izer, Senior Development Manager with the Michigan Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 218 or gina.izer@mig.nmss.org.

Breath of Life Walks
May 12, 2001
Ann Arbor and Lansing
A walking event to promote lung health and celebrate Clean Air Month, as well as a fundraiser for programs aimed at healthy living through smoking prevention, asthma education and management, clean air advocacy, and lung disease research.

For more information, contact Chuck Buxton, Development Specialist with the American Lung Association of Michigan, at (248) 784-6071 or cbuxton@123.net.

Chelsea Heart and Sole Runs
May 12, 2001
Chelsea
The Heart and Sole Runs are sponsored by Chelsea Community Hospital to promote community wellness programs. Events include 10K, 5K, and 2-mile runs, as well as 5K and 2-mile walks.

For more information, contact Russ Billau, Race Director, at (734) 475-3930 or russb@cchpost.cch.org.

Breath of Life Walks
May 19, 2001
Farmington Hills, Flint, Grand Rapids, Traverse City
A walking event to promote lung health and celebrate Clean Air Month, as well as a fundraiser for programs aimed at healthy living through smoking prevention, asthma education and management, clean air advocacy, and lung disease research.

For more information, contact Chuck Buxton, Development Specialist with the American Lung Association of Michigan, at (248) 784-6071 or cbuxton@123.net.

Over the River and Through the Woods 5K
May 19, 2001
Clarkston
The Over the River and Through the Woods is a competitive 5K run. Funds raised will help send low-income at-risk youth to the Camp Fire Boys and Girls Summer Day Camp program.

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

Hyatt Regency Race for Charity
May 20, 2001
Dearborn
The Dearborn Hyatt Regency is sponsoring a 10K run and 5K walk around the area. Lunch will follow the race with a prize giveaway raffle; grand prize is a trip for two to Chicago. Supervised child care will be available for free. All proceeds go to the Dearborn D.A.R.E. program and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Michigan.

For more information, contact Joseph Murgalo, General Manager of the Hyatt Regency, at (313) 593-1234.

Kids' Run and Dexter-Ann Arbor Run
May 25-26, 2001
Ann Arbor
The Kids' Run and a health and fitness expo are held on May 25; the Dexter-Ann Arbor Run is held on May 26. Events on May 26 include a half marathon, 10K run, 10K walk, 5K run, 5K walk, and 5K race walk. The purpose of the event is to promote fitness and health, as well as to broaden community cooperation and participation in health events throughout the year.

For more information, contact Renee Rienas, Race Director with the Ann Arbor Track Club, at (734) 528-3221 or dxaa@aol.com.

Fruitport 5K/10K Road Run
May 26, 2001
Fruitport
The run is one of many events offered during the Fruitport Old-Fashioned Days, sponsored by the Fruitport Lions Club.

For more information, contact Dan Leaver, chairperson of the Lions Club, at (231) 865-3573.

John Jarvi Jr. Memorial Run
May 26, 2001
Ironwood
The run includes a 5K, 10K, and Tot Trot fitness event. The 5K course is a 3.1-mile walk/run; the 10K event is a sanctioned 6.2 mile race. The Tot Trot takes place after the other two events, with children up to age 5 encouraged to run/walk in a short race. All participants receive a signed certificate. The Team Running Challenge allows male/female runners of high school and middle school age to compete in the 5K event. Times are averaged; winners receive a team plaque and a $100 donation to their school's cross country or track program.

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

Tour-de-Lakes
May 28, 2001
Oakland County
The Tour-de-Lakes is a 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 cycling as an alternative transportation for commuting and local errands. Three route lengths are available: 31 miles and 62 miles on paved roads for experienced cyclists, and 8 miles on paved recreational pathways for children and less experienced riders.

National YMCA Older Adult Day
May 30, 2001
Saginaw YMCA
This day is intended to promote active, healthy living for older adults. Activities at the Saginaw YMCA include a walking clinic, chair exercises, water exercise, stretching, blood pressure checks, and booths with health information.

For more information, contact Janet Sahr, Assistant Program Director at the Saginaw YMCA, at (989) 753-7721 or ymca@saginawymca.org.

Special Olympics State Summer Games
May 31 - June 3, 2001
Mt. Pleasant
The State Summer Games is the culminating event for over 3,000 Special Olympics athletes from across Michigan. Competitions held at the Games are aquatics, athletics, bocce, bowling, golf, gymnastics, horseshoes, powerlifting, team handball, volleyball, weightlifting, and the motor activities training program. All athletes train and compete in their local communities before participating at the state level.

For more information, contact Ann Watters, Director of Sports and Training with the Special Olympics Michigan, at (989) 774-3911 or somi@somi.org.

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 activities such as soccer, basketball, tug-of-war, swimming, dunk tanks, and street hockey. 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 Jim Dunleavy with Oakland County Parks and Recreation at (248) 858-4647.

Cooley 5K Race for Education
June 1, 2001
Lansing
The Cooley 5K is for runners, walkers, and wheelers and is held in downtown Lansing, beginning and ending at the State Capitol. There is also a children's race around the Capitol, as well as other activities for the children, and live music is provided by the Uptown Band. The goal is to promote education in the greater Lansing area.

For more information, contact Terry Franklin, Director of Communications at Cooley Law School, at (517) 371-5140 ext. 2916 or franklit@cooley.edu.

100 Grand Bicycle Tour
June 2, 2001
Grand Rapids
The 100 Grand Bicycle Tour offers four distances to ride through Grand Rapids and greater Kent County: 15 miles, 30 miles, 62 miles, and 100 miles. The rides begin at West Side Christian School and include SAG service, food stops, companionship, and lunch.

For more information, contact Roger Holdt, president of the Rapid Wheelmen, at (616) 752-8123.

Hanson Hills Challenge Trail Run
June 2, 2001
Grayling
Sponsored by the Grayling Recreation Authority, the trail run includes a 5-mile run and a 5K run. The goals are to encourage physical fitness and to highlight the Authority's trail system.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, Director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (989) 348-9266 or hanhills@mich.com.

Westwoods 5K Race, Walk and Fun Run
June 2, 2001
Traverse City
The event features a 5K race and walk that begins and ends at Westwood Elementary School. There is also a half-kilometer run for children ages 12 and under that is held entirely on the school grounds. Although the event is combined with the annual school picnic, it is open to the entire community. Proceeds are used for new playground equipment.

For more information, contact Eric McCumber, race director, at (231) 929-7729 or emccumber@voyager.net.

Rural Rush
June 8, 2001
Overisel
The Rural Rush features a 5K run, a 5K walk, and a one-mile fun run for children. Proceeds benefit the Hamilton High School football program and the Allegan County Cancer Society.

For more information, contact Becky Myers, director of the Hamilton High School Football Program, at (616) 751-5185.

GM MS 150 Bike Tour
June 9-10
Grand Rapids
The bike tour is a pledge-based event which benefits the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Participants can choose from 150-, 175-, or 200-mile routes, as well as a one-day mountain bike ride. The ride begins in Grand Rapids with an overnight stay at Hope College in Holland.

For more information, contact Andrea Sakalauskas, development manager with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 204, or andrea.sakalauskas@mig.nmss.org. You may also visit their web site at www.nmssmi.org.

YWCA Bayside Biathlon
June 10, 2001
Bay City
The event includes a 5K run and 20K bike ride. The goal is to get running and biking enthusiasts to try something new.

For more information, contact Bob Moyer, Health and Fitness/Youth Director at the YWCA of Bay County, at (989) 686-4800.

Fudge Classic
June 16-17, 2001
Mackinaw City
The Fudge Classic includes 5K and 10K races for all ages. Trophies, plaques, and medals are awarded. Runners who finish the 10K in less than 60 minutes or the 5K in less than 30 minutes will be able to 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 or pvance@nmo.net.

National 24-Hour Challenge
June 16-17, 2001
Middleville
The National 24-hour Challenge is a personal best endurance bicycle ride with classes for both men and women ages 18 to 70+. There are also categories for tandems, male/female/mixed, and single and tandem recumbents. The goal of the event is to provide an opportunity for men and women to test their endurance and determination. Participants have to set goals and train to accomplish them.

For more information, contact Diane Obermeyer with the Rapid Wheelmen at (616) 241-1969 or n24hc@aol.com.

Run to the Border
June 17, 2001
Sault Ste. Marie
Part of the Soo Locks Festival's "All Sports Weekend," the Run to the Border is a four-mile running road race. The top three finishers in each class will receive a medal.

For more information, contact Terry Myers, race director, at (906) 632-0682 or tmyers@sault.com.

The MS Walk
June 23, 2001
Traverse City
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. The MS Walk is a fun way to join thousands across the country and help raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. The money raised (89 cents of every dollar) will be used for research and programs for people living with MS in Michigan.

For more information, contact Gina Izer, Senior Development Manager with the Michigan Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, at (248) 350-0020, ext. 218 or gina.izer@mig.nmss.org.

5K Race for Autism
June 24, 2001
Stoney Creek Metro Park, Macomb County
Sponsored by Hanson's Running Shop and the Autism Society of America Foundation, events include a 5K trail run and a one-mile fun walk. Awards will be given to overall and age group winners; certificates will be given to finishers under age 19. The goal is to raise funds and awareness for autism and and autism research.

For more information, contact Ann Marie Swain, race director, at (248) 459-0416 or swaina@yahoo.com.

For Women Only 5K Run/Walk
June 25, 2001
Ann Arbor
The 19th annual For Women Only race is a celebration of women, fitness, friendship, and fun. The goal is to provide an opportunity for women to celebrate fitness and health in a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

For more information, contact Lisa Hesse with the Ann Arbor Track Club at (734) 930-9813 or lmhskd@provide.net.

July

Algonac Lions Pickerel Run
July 1, 2001
Algonac
Offered as part of the Pickerel Tournament, events in the Pickerel Run include 5K and 10K runs, a 5K walk, and a "minnow run" for children ages 5 and under.

For more information, contact John Gibson with the Algonac Lions Club at (810) 794-7348 or jgibson@aiis.net.

Hanover Firecracker
July 4, 2001
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. 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.

Fit Kids, Healthy Future Swim Program
July 5, 12, 19, 26, 2001
Ann Arbor
Sponsored by Care Choices HMO, "Fit Kids, Healthy Future" will allow all children ages 17 and under to swim for free on Thursday evenings in July. The events will take place at the Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation swimming pools, Veterans Memorial Pool, Buhr Pool, and Fuller Pool.

For more information, contact Pam Henderson, Director of Marketing at Care Choices, at (248) 489-5080 or henderp@trinity-health.org.

Run for Funds
July 7, 2001
Northport
The Run for Funds is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society of Leelanau County consisting of 10K and 2-mile fun runs and a 2-mile or more noncompetitive walk. The goal is to raise money for the Leelanau County Unit of the American Cancer Society and to make participants aware of cancer education.

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

Elsie Dairy Dash
July 14, 2001
Elsie
Part of the Elsie Dairy Festival, the Dairy Dash is a 5K run/walk road race. It promotes running and walking as part of a healthy lifestyle. Proceeds go to the Ovid-Elsie High School cross coutnry team.

For more information, contact Tom Hughey, race director, at (989) 862-5796 or hugheyt@edzone.net.

GM MS 150 Bike Tour
July 14-15, 2001
Davisburg
The bike tour is a pledge-based event which benefits the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Participants can choose from 150-, 175-, or 200-mile routes, as well as a one-day mountain bike ride. The ride begins in Davisburg with an overnight stay at Michigan State University in East Lansing.

Flavorbest Apple Run/Walk
July 21, 2001
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 finishers. The run is designed to educate consumers about the Michigan apple industry and the importance of eating five fruits and vegetables a day while participating in a well-organized sporting event.

For more information, contact Dawn Geers, Race Director, at (616) 887-8052 or applerun@msn.com.

United Hospice 5K Run/2-Mile Walk
July 21, 2001
Marlette
A benefit for the United Hospice Service and Marlette Community Hospital, the run/walk is held on a paved course which passes through residential and country settings. Awards will be given to the first overall male and female runners, the top three runners in each age group, and the top three walkers to finish.

For more information, contact Steve Johnson, race chairperson, at (989) 635-6655.

Ellen's Race
July 22, 2001
East Lansing
Ellen's Race is a 5K race/walk in memory of Ellen Osborn, a young girl who died in 1993. 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 at (517) 351-5573, send an email to ellensrace@aol.com, or visit their web site at www.ellensrace.com.

GRA 10K
July 28, 2001
Grayling
Sponsored by the Grayling Reacreation Authority, the GRA 10K event also includes a one-mile fun walk/run. The goal is to promote physical fitness for the community.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, Director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (989) 348-9266 or hanhills@mich.com.

Hennesey's 5K/1 Mile Bologna Run
July 28, 2001
Yale
Sponsored by the Frost Running Club, the Bologna Run is held in conjunction with the Yale Bologna Festival. The goal is to promote health throughout Yale and the surrounding communities.

For more information, contact Thomas Pemberton, race director, at (810) 384-6195 or pembert@hotmail.com.

Tuuri Race Day
July 28, 2001
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, Tuuri Race Director, at (810) 257-9930 or kkelly1@hurleymc.com.

August

Italian Festival Village Bike Criterium
August 12, 2001
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 1/2/3, senior category 3/4, and senior category 5. A one-day license is available for category 5 beginners.

For more information, contact Diane Obermeyer with the Rapid Wheelmen at (616) 241-1969 or mss321@aol.com.

Fermi 2 Energy Run
August 18, 2001
Newport
Sponsored by Detroit Edison, the Fermi 2 Energy Run benefits Monroe Project Read, a nonprofit volunteer program dedicated to increasing adult literacy. Events include an 8K run, 5K run/walk, one-mile fun run, children's activities, and displays by book stores and running stores.

Mitchell's Run Through Rockford
August 18, 2001
Rockford
Mitchell's Run consists of a 5K run/walk and KidsK through downtown Rockford. Participants run along White Pine Trail and finish with music and refreshments. All proceeds from the event are donated to Parent Project for Muscular Dystrophy, to raise awareness and fund research for Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy.

Channel Kats Track Club Cross Country Events
August 27
Belle Isle, Detroit
The events include distances from 2K to 5K and are open to all ages. The goal is to provide opportunities for competition, friendship, and exercise for runners, officials, and spectators.

For more information, contact Dan Deyo, president of the Channel Kats Track Club, at (313) 610-1188 or channelkats@worldnet.att.net.

September

VASA Trail Run
September 22, 2001
Traverse City
Sponsored by the Traverse City Track Club, the VASA Trail Run is for the experienced runner seeking a challenge. There is a choice of distances: 25K, 11K, or 5K. The course follows the VASA cross country ski trail, which meanders through state forest land and includes many hills, stumps, roots, rocks, and sand. No refreshments are provided; runners must carry their own or have someone meet them along the trail.

For more information, contact George Kuhn, race director, at (231) 947-6417 or ac156@tcnet.org. You may also visit their web site at www.tctrackclub.com.

October

Hartwick Pines Challenge
October 6, 2001
Grayling
The Hartwick Pines Challenge is a 7.2-mile run through Hartwick Pines State Park. The course passes through rolling hills covered with pine, beech, birch and aspen, never leaving the woods. A one-mile fun walk is also available.

For more information, contact Cindy Olson, Director of the Grayling Recreation Authority, at (989) 348-9266 or hanhills@mich.com.

Red October Run
October 6, 2001
Wayne
Sponsored by the Oakwood Healthcare System, events include a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk, and 1-mile "junior" for children 12 and under. Participants of all ages and experiences are welcome. The events include t-shirts, finisher awards, age group awards, a free prize drawing, and post-race refreshments. Other activities available include health education literature, blood pressure screening, cholesterol screening, glucose screening, body composition analysis, and massage.

For more information, contact Cynthia Cook, Community Benefit Coordinator at Oakwood Community Health, at (313) 791-1486 or cookc@oakwood.org.

Homecoming Campus Classic
October 13, 2001
Kalamazoo
Events in the Campus Classic include a 5K run, a 5K walk,a 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 Sue Beougher, Administrative Assistant/Race Director at Western Michigan University,, at (616) 387-8402 or sue.beougher@wmich.edu.

Colorburst Bicycle Tour
October 14, 2001
Lowell
Sponsored by the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club, participants can choose to ride routes covering 17, 30, or 62 miles. The tour is intended to promote bicycling as a regular part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Proceeds from the event will be donated to Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

For more information, contact Carolyn Peacock, chairperson of the Rapid Wheelmen Bicycle Club, at (616) 974-2633 or cpeacock@iserv.net.

Trick or Trot
October 27, 2001
Northville
The Third Annual Trick or Trot 5K benefits pediatric cancer research at Children's Hospital of Michigan. Events include a 5K run/walk, a half-mile and one-mile Tot Trot, and children's entertainment. All children receive a finisher's ribbon and a bag of Halloween goodies. Top three finishers in each age group receive an award.

For more information, contact Colleen Rieckhoff with Leukemia, Research, Life Inc. at (734) 454-7341 or rieckhoffc@aol.com, or visit their web site at www.trickortrot.org .

November

Subaru Iceman Cometh Challenge
November 3, 2001
Kalkaska
The Subaru Iceman Cometh Challenge is a 26-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 or race@iceman.com, or visit www.iceman.com.

Woodhaven Run in the Park
November 4, 2001
Woodhaven
The event includes a one-mile competitive run, a 2-mile walk, and a 4-mile run, culminating with an award ceremony and pancake breakfast. Each event is open to all ages with awards given to the top three finishers in each age group, to overall male and female, and master male and female. The event honors the memory of Bryan Weatherhead, with proceeds given to the Woodhaven School District to give scholarships to students who plan to major in education in college.

For more information, contact David Flaten, Administrative Assistant/Treasurer with the City of Woodhaven, at (734) 675-4912 or davecofw@wdl.net.

January 2002

Portland Winter Run
January 19, 2002
Portland
Sponsored by the Portland Running Club, the Portland Winter Run is a 5K road race benefiting the Portland High School cross country teams and the Ionia County Community Foundation.

For more information, contact David Hoort, race director, at (517) 647-7873 or dahoort@yahoo.com.