Logistics changes designed to address growth concerns, safety
GREEN BAY — The Bellin Run drew 15,149 registrants last year. The 33rd annual run expects to build on that number this year.
The 10K (6.2-mile) Bellin Run will take place at 8 a.m., Saturday, June 13. So far, registration numbers almost mirror those of last year, said race director Randy Van Straten.
“Our numbers have been steady,” he said. “We’ve found that registration for mass participatory events such as the Bellin Run tend to increase during a weak economy. That’s partially why we’re braced for a registration increase.”
Add to that the fact that the Bellin Run has experienced growth in each of the last four years, Van Straten said. In 2008 it was listed as the fourth largest 10K run in the United States. “We expect to see a continuation in that growth trend.”
Race organizers say the Bellin Run registration also is expected to grow because the event offers a healthy, fitness-friendly event for families, friends and participants of all competition levels.
“It’s an affordable event that gives participants a good bang for their buck,” said Bellin Run operations director Dave McGillivray. “It also gives people an opportunity to do something within their budget that’s closer to home.”
Bellin Run planners prepared for the expected record registration by instituting a few logistics changes. Most notably, the run will employ the use of wave starts.
Wave starts consist of staggered starts of smaller groups instead of one huge start for all participants. Runners are placed in waves of similarly paced participants. Each wave has its own start with a short interval between waves. This creates a safer, less congested experience for participants. The Bellin Run will employ seven wave starts.
Other changes this year include a new location for the race expo and event festivities. Those will be held at Astor Park at Porlier and Clay streets, Van Straten said. Also, the Friday children’s race will take place on the perimeter streets of Astor Park.
“It’s all part of the effort to create a less congested Bellin Run experience,” Van Straten said. “Given the anticipated increase in registration this year, we wanted to make sure that all who participate have the opportunity to enjoy a positive race experience.”
The starting line for the Bellin Run will be on Webster Avenue immediately south of the skywalk. Participants will line up in the area in six corrals, defined by category and pace.
The start and finish line are the same in 2009. Finishing on Webster Avenue will give participants increased space and a dramatic setting. The move also enables enhanced medical areas, spectator seating, finisher flow and ease of access to refreshments.
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.
