More than 90 percent of registrants are from Northeast Wisconsin
GREEN BAY — The record registration numbers the Bellin Run has experienced the last four years is indicative of the growing emphasis on health and fitness in Northeast Wisconsin communities, race organizers say.
The race started in 1977 as a one-time event to celebrate an expanded hospital with an inaugural 880 registrants. Last year, a record 15,149 people registered for the run. The 10K (6.2-mile) Bellin Run will take place at 8 a.m., Saturday, June 13.
Through the years, the Bellin Run’s emphasis on community health and fitness has been increasingly pronounced.
“It ties in with part of Bellin Health’s mission statement which encourages us to help steer individuals, their families and friends toward optimal health,” said race director Randy Van Straten, a Bellin employee. “Whether running, walking or using a modified wheelchair, participation in the Bellin Run is taking a step toward optimal health.”
About 93 percent of Bellin Run participants have traditionally been from Northeast Wisconsin, Van Straten said.
“That’s a lot of locals focused on health and fitness. We encourage them to carry this healthy experience with them throughout the remainder of the year,” he said. “Distance running requires training, making the Bellin Run a great springboard for incorporating healthy habits into people’s lifestyles.”
The Bellin Run has one of the nation’s highest race satisfaction scores, with 98 percent of poll respondents saying they would recommend the event to another person, Van Straten said.
Running is one of the easiest activities an individual can do to improve his or her physical and mental health, said Phil Turnbull, a licensed athletic trainer at Bellin Health Sports Medicine.
“A regular run or walk can help efforts to lose weight, fight disease and slow down the effects of aging. Running and walking also offer stress relief and help build confidence,” he said. “Health benefits aside, the Bellin Run is simply a fun, rewarding activity.”
Online registration for the Bellin Run began February 23 at www.bellinrun.com. Early online registration is $17 through May 31. Mail-in registration is $20. Late online registration June 1-11 is $20. Mail-in registration June 1 through June 11 is $23. On race weekend, participants can register after 4 p.m. June 12 through race day for $25 at the Astor Park registration tent. All participants receive a Bellin Run T-shirt.
