News Summary
The 22nd annual University of Michigan Health-West Grand Rapids Marathon attracted between 4,500 to 5,000 participants, marking the largest attendance in its history. With a fast and flat course, many runners achieved personal bests. Despite rainy conditions, the community support was strong, emphasizing the spirit of perseverance. Additionally, the event was a celebration of safety and preparedness after an incident involving a participant requiring urgent medical assistance. The marathon showcased both the competitive nature of the participants and the supportive atmosphere of Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids witnessed a remarkable turnout at the 22nd annual University of Michigan Health-West Grand Rapids Marathon, held on a rainy Sunday morning. This year marked a record attendance, drawing an estimated 4,500 to 5,000 participants, solidifying its status as the largest event in the marathon’s history. In addition to the enthusiastic runners, thousands of spectators lined the sidewalks, offering cheers and support as participants took on the challenging course.
The marathon’s course is known for being fast and flat, which has contributed to many runners achieving their personal bests or qualifying for significant events such as the Boston Marathon. Organizers reported a notable number of personal bests recorded throughout the race, showcasing the competitive spirit of the participants.
The starting and finishing lines of the marathon were located near the Grand Valley State University Pew Campus and Blue Bridge, adapted due to ongoing construction of a soccer stadium in downtown Grand Rapids. The scenic route took participants through the vibrant heart of downtown and Millennium Park, often referred to as a “West Michigan color tour” for its picturesque landscape.
Event organizers laid out several events leading up to the marathon, including a Kids Marathon occurring the day prior. Runners in the marathon commenced their race at 8 a.m., followed by additional events such as the 10k and 5k races. To ensure the safety of all, the event featured a strong medical presence with around 70 professionals from University of Michigan Health-West’s sports medicine team stationed along the route.
During the event, one participant, Tim Ruff, experienced a heart attack but fortunately received timely assistance from three individuals in close proximity. Among those who helped was Dr. Rick Ganzi, an anesthesiologist and marathon official, who was instrumental in reviving Ruff. Following surgery for a blocked artery and subsequent hospitalization, Ruff expressed immense gratitude towards his rescuers and emphasized the importance of CPR awareness, highlighting its critical role in saving lives during emergencies.
The marathon required extensive planning this year with an overhaul of its route, including adjustments to the mile markers, which helped facilitate necessary course recertification. Race organizers also recommended that participants and spectators utilize parking on the east side of the Grand River, encouraging them to walk to the starting area to mitigate congestion and enhance the overall experience.
Race director Don Kern referred to the marathon as a “celebration of perseverance and the power of community,” a sentiment that resonated throughout the event. Winners from various categories were announced on Sunday afternoon, adding a competitive flair to the day’s festivities. The enthusiastic participation and community support underscored the marathon’s significance as a cherished tradition in Grand Rapids, despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions.
As the marathon concluded, the sense of accomplishment and community spirit remained palpable, marking another successful year for the University of Michigan Health-West Grand Rapids Marathon. Looking forward, the event hopes to continue this trend of growth and personal achievement while fostering a supportive environment for all runners, regardless of their experience levels.
In summary, the 22nd annual Grand Rapids Marathon not only set records for participation but also showcased the resilience and camaraderie of the Grand Rapids community. The event illustrated the transformative power of sports and the importance of safety and preparedness in athletic events.
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Additional Resources
- WZZM 13 News: Grand Rapids Marathon
- FOX17: Road Closures for Grand Rapids Marathon
- WOOD TV: Despite Rain, the GR Marathon Goes On
- Google Search: Grand Rapids Marathon
- MLive: Runner Dies During Grand Rapids Marathon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marathon
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
