Initiative is part of run’s concerted efforts to reduce environmental impact
GREEN BAY — Bellin Run organizers are strongly encouraging this year’s participants to register online for the 33rd annual event. The move is part of the Bellin’s increased green focus to minimize the impact of the 10K (6.2-mile) race event on the environment.
Registering online is quick, easy, and secure and trims paper waste, organizers have said.
“In the past, runners have had to pay for the convenience of registering online,” said race director Randy Van Straten. “We’ve changed that train of thought and are now rewarding Bellin Run participants who register online. They’ll pay $3 less than participants who register through the mail.”
The measure is reflective of the Bellin Run’s greener stance this year. The event, which last year drew a record 15,149 registrations, is expected to draw another record number of participants this June, Van Straten said.
“Because we anticipate an even larger field of registrants, we decided to be proactive and instituting a number of measures designed to reduce the potential stresses our event might have on the areas surrounding the race,” he said. “It’s really about being a good neighbor and a responsible steward for our environment.”
Other green measures this year include online goodie bags, which will help reduce paper waste. A virtual goodie bag gives visitors the option to print only those coupons and other offers and items that are of interest to them, reducing the need for the plastic goodie bags traditionally given to participants on race weekend.
Also, all 10K runners and walkers will receive a recyclable computerized timing chip to attach to their shoe, Van Straten said. The recyclable chips enable runners to receive a more accurate time while also helping run organizers’ efforts to reduce waste.
In another move designed to reduce Bellin Run waste, organizers will significantly increase the number of available recycling containers.
“This event generates lots of drink containers, so we plan to increase the number of opportunities for people to properly dispose of their recyclables,” Van Straten said.
Organizers also will offer remote parking shuttles, a feature added during last year’s race. In addition to the current pick-up site at Shoko at East Town Mall, race participants can also use the new shuttle at the Shopko store at Bay Park Square Mall. Shuttle users there are encouraged to park in Shopko’s east lot.
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.
