Race advisor, logistics changes take Bellin Run into the future
GREEN BAY—The Bellin Run is setting its sights on yet another record-breaking year by bringing a piece of the Boston Marathon to Green Bay. For assistance with a run that has become the fourth largest timed 10K (6.2 mile) race in the nation, Bellin is joining forces with Dave McGillivray, race director of the Boston Marathon and president of DMSE Sports Inc.
"Like Bellin Health, which has been serving the community for 100 years, the Bellin Run has grown and adapted over the past 32 years in order to make each race a better Bellin,” said George Kerwin, Bellin Health CEO and president. “Embracing change and seeking new opportunities to grow has allowed us the exciting opportunity to work with Dave McGillivray and take the Bellin Run into the future."
McGillivray’s role with the Bellin Run will be to work in partnership with Bellin’s existing team. As the operations director, McGillivray will assist with overall race logistics, which includes start and finish line layout, course layout, water stations, course monitors, signage, road closures and overall setup and takedown of the event. He has produced or consulted on more than 750 events worldwide, including:
- The US Olympic Trials – Women’s Marathon
- The 2006 Denver Marathon
- The TD Banknorth Beach to Beacon 10K
- The 1990 ITU Triathlon World Championship
Founded by McGillivray in 1981, DMSE Sports specializes in creating, marketing and producing mass participatory athletic events, like the Bellin Run, throughout the United States and abroad.
"The Bellin Run holds a special place in the hearts of local participants and world-class athletes alike," said McGillivray. "That’s why the 32nd annual Bellin Run will once again have the same great course that everyone enjoys, but with new and improved start and finish layouts to better accommodate the growing number of race participants."
The reconfigured starting line at this year’s Bellin Run will feature more space, additional corrals and extra volunteers to ensure a smooth, efficient official start. The finish line will feature increased space, improved flow and enhanced hydration and food areas.
"With the addition of Dave McGillivray and his team, along with the suggestions of last year’s participants, we’re creating a platform that will allow us to plan a successful race not only for this year, but in the years to come," said Randy Van Straten, Bellin Run race director. "That includes designated corrals based on pace to ease congestion at the starting line and a stroller division for parents."
While the Bellin Run features world-renowned athletes, Bellin Run organizers say that it will remain a race for everyone. "Whether you’re 8-years-old or 80, whether you run or walk, or whether you go it alone or team up with a friend, the Bellin Run is a way for you to begin, or continue, a healthier lifestyle," Van Straten said.
Since the first Bellin Run in 1977, race participation has grown almost every year to last year’s record-breaking participation of nearly 13,000 runners and walkers. From 2006 to 2007 alone, Bellin Run race participation increased by more than 20 percent.
Online registration for the Bellin Run will begin March 1, 2008 at www.bellinrun.com. Registration is $17 through June 2 and $20 from June 3-14. All participants receive a Bellin Run t-shirt, timing chip and a results book.
