Running Bear Run draws record crowd
From staff reports
A perfect, blue-sky day in Glen Arbor with cool temperatures brought 703 participants to the annual Running Bear Run on July 25. Sponsored by the Glen Arbor Women’s Club, the race raises about $11,00 each year and 100 percent of the net proceeds are used to fund college scholarships and community organizations.
The race opened with the National Anthem sung by Joe Zawacki, a sophomore from Oak Park, Ill. He and his family have participated in five Running Bear Runs. Zawacki had a total of 26 relatives from as far away as Oregon, Illinois, and nine from here in Michigan participating. Zawacki did double duty, both singing the National Anthem and running.
Zach Ripley took the honors of Overall Best Male with a time of 15:13. This is his fourth overall best win in 5 years. Ripley missed last year since his baby son, Miles, was born two months prior. Miles, 14 months old, participated in this year’s run with his mom, Andi. “We really appreciate the small-town atmosphere here in Glen Arbor and the race’s backing by the community. It’s one of our favorites.”
Taking overall best in the Women’s 5K was Heidi Heuerman, with a time of 19:04. Heuerman has been running since the eighth grade. She runs cross country each fall and participates in about 15 races each year. “This race is so special — I just love the positive atmosphere.”
The Glen Arbor Women’s Club would like to thank the community for all its support for the Running Bear Run. From donating prizes to financial support.
Join next year on July 24 for the 12th annual Running Bear Run.
