By Mark Ambrogi
Grand Park marketing manager Michelle Krcmery would love to see a lot of runners in red, white and blue during the Grand Run.
“This will be our first year holding it on July 4, but we anticipate that the runners will enjoy the opportunity to dress in patriotic attire,” Krcmery said, “When we held it on Memorial Day, there were quite a few participants who dressed up the whole family. That was really fun to see.”
Krcmery said participation has grown each of the three years and expects at least 250 participants this year in the fourth annual Grand Run at Westfield’s Grand Park. Wellbrooke of Westfield is the presenting sponsor. In addition to the 5K race, a 10K and 1-mile family run have been added.
“The first year it was held during our grand opening celebration for Grand Park in 2014,” Krcmery said. “After that, we held it on various dates, but now that Westfield Rocks the Fourth takes place at Grand Park on an annual basis, we thought this presented an opportunity to make July 4 its permanent home and to focus on growing the participation in future years.”
Krcmery said a portion of the races’ proceeds will benefit Wounded Warrior Project.
“Post-race activities will include music, refreshments and a sneak peek at the Westfield Rocks the Fourth festivities taking place later that day,” she said. “We don’t start and finish in the same area as Westfield Rocks the Fourth. However, the course runs adjacent to the Westfield Rocks event setup so people will get a sneak peek at the event offerings. Our start and finish area will be in the Championship Plaza area located at the south end of Lot C in between the two Championship fields.”
All participants will receive a medal. Awards will be given for the top three finishers (male and female). Early registration through May 29 is $20 for 5K and 10K ($25 to run both); $10 for 1 Mile Run/Walk, After May 29, registration is $25 for 5K and 10K ($30 on race day); $15 for 1 Mile Run/Walk ($20 on race day). The Kids Fun Run is free. For more, visit http://runsignup.com/grandrun.
