GREEN BAY — For 50 years, the Bellin Run has been about far more than crossing a finish line. What began as a one-time road race in 1977 has grown into an iconic Northeast Wisconsin event that welcomes participants of every age and ability. As the race gets ready to celebrate its 50th year on June 13, the message is the same: everyone deserves a chance to cross the finish line.
The Bellin Run welcomes athletes of all skill levels, from experts to beginners. It also welcomes individuals of varying abilities and life stages through two dedicated inclusive events the Friday of race weekend: Back to the Road Crew and the TRIUMPH Mile. On race day, the MyTEAM TRIUMPH organization continues the push for inclusivity through involvement in the main event.
“We know the journey to the Bellin Run starting line looks different for every participant,” said Race Director Linda Maxwell. “It’s important that everyone gets the opportunity to belong and feel that sense of achievement — whether it’s a competitive pursuit or a chance to show the world, ‘I can do it.’”
Back to the Road Crew started in 2001 as the Joints Walk. It is a 1-mile walk that takes place during the Friday events and celebrates those who have recovered and rehabilitated from surgery or a major illness. This invitation-only event, sponsored by Emplify Health by Bellin Orthopedics—Hip and Knee Replacement, is about resilience, perseverance and the power of personal strength to overcome orthopedic procedures, cardiac conditions, cancers and more. The Back to the Road Crew event is a true example of what the Bellin Run is all about: getting feet on the street in the name of health.
Athletic inclusion organization MyTEAM TRIUMPH is a mainstay of Bellin Run race weekend events:
- TRIUMPH Mile — Since 2013, this Friday evening event has allowed athletes with disabilities (“Captains”) to shine as they compete a one-mile course with the assistance of helpers known as “Angels.”
- Race day — During Saturday’s main event, dozens of teams of Angels push Captains in specially designed racing strollers to help them experience the thrill of competition in the full Bellin Run field. The Bellin Run was MyTEAM TRIUMPH’s debut event when the organization formed in 2010.
“If you needed proof that getting people moving, regardless of who they are or where they are starting from, makes a community stronger – these events are your proof,” said Maxwell. “Celebrating the 50th Bellin Run isn’t just about a race; it’s about recognizing everyone who has ever laced up their shoes or shown up. And it’s about encouraging everyone else that they can do it too.”
To learn more about the Back to the Road Crew and MyTEAM TRIUMPH events, please visit www.bellinrun.com. Registration for the 2026 Bellin Run 10K and 5K run/walk is now open and all are encouraged to sign up and join the celebration.
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.