GREEN BAY — When 881 runners toed the start line of the Bellin Heartwarming Run in 1977, no one could have imagined what was to come. Half a century later, the Bellin Run stands as one of the Midwest’s most cherished road race traditions – and with the 50th annual event on the horizon, organizers are inviting the community to look back at the moments that made it all possible.
Over the last 49 years and counting, the Bellin Run has gone from a small idea to encourage healthy physical activity to a beloved, nationally recognized event. As they prepare for the golden anniversary race on Saturday, June 13, Bellin Run organizers have been reminiscing about the countless amazing moments in the history of this iconic event.
“Looking back at these 50 years, you can see the full arc of what has been built,” said Randy Van Straten, Bellin Run Executive Director. “From one-time event to beloved tradition, we are incredibly proud of our history, and we can’t wait to celebrate these past 50 years of the Bellin Run.”
To bring everyone down memory lane, the Bellin Run has posted a “50 Great Moments in Bellin Run History” blog that is now available online. The moments are listed in chronological order, taking readers from the first race to a gutsy finish on crutches for one of our Bellin Run Legends, a TV celebrity joining the race, and much more.
“Each of these moments represents real people — runners and walkers who dug deep, volunteers who gave their time and a community that has always shown up,” said Bellin Run Race Director Linda Maxwell. “These 50 moments, plus the countless others we remembered, are all made possible by the love that our team, participants and supporters have given over these 50 years. Whether you’ve run every Bellin Run or you’re joining us for the first time, we encourage you to read through all 50 moments and feel the spirit of the Bellin Run.”
To read all 50 great moments in Bellin Run history, please visit our blog. To see these 50 moments rolled out daily between now and race day, check out Bellin Run’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
The 50th annual Bellin Run will take place at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 13. For more information or to register, visit bellinrun.com. Follow the Bellin Run on Facebook and Instagram.