45th annual event will be virtual due to ongoing pandemic
Runners and walkers are invited to participate in the 2021 Bellin Run, a virtual event that invites individuals near and far to get “feet on the street” in the name of health and wellness. Registration will open Monday, March 1 for this year’s event June 12-21.
While organizers had hoped an in-person event would be possible for this 45th anniversary year, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic makes the virtual option the only safe choice for an event of this size, said executive race director Randy Van Straten.
“We know there is cause for optimism as COVID-19 numbers have decreased from their local peak and vaccine rollout continues,” Van Straten said. “But with upwards of 10,000 participants in a given year, we simply can’t present a safe in-person event with things as they are now — nor three months from now, even under the most optimistic of scenarios.”
Nearly 4,000 people completed the 2020 Bellin Run, a virtual event that had a heavy local draw but also included participants from all over the U.S. and as far away as Australia, Singapore and Europe, individuals who were eager to embrace the virtual format to complete their own Bellin Run in their community.
Race organizers engaged participants with extra touches that included sharing an audio recording of the event’s traditional saxophone national anthem, as well as videos from Bellin Run VIPs and elite athletes and a special Spotify playlist to rev up the runners and walkers. Participants can look forward to more great engagement opportunities this year.
Bellin Run organizers are offering a special early bird discount rate throughout the month of March, when registration is just $20. Prices will increase to $25 April 1. Registration is quick, easy and available starting March 1 at bellinrun.com. All registrants will receive an official Bellin Run technical T-shirt featuring this year’s custom logo, as well as a special 45th anniversary finisher medal.
Organizers are looking forward to another great virtual year with the hopes of gathering together again in 2022, said assistant race director Linda Maxwell.
“We know the best way to get back to an in-person event is for individuals to stay the course when it comes to masking, social distancing, hand hygiene and other COVID preventive measures,” Maxwell said. “We also encourage everyone to get vaccinated when able. By doing the right things on our own, we can look forward to celebrating together again next year.”
New Challenge to Kick Off Training, Engage Participants
In honor of the 45th anniversary of the Bellin Run, organizers are kicking off this year’s training with the 30/45 Build to Bellin Challenge, which encourages individuals to improve their health by averaging 30 minutes of activity a day for 45 days between March 1 and April 15. Activities can include physical and mental elements, including running or walking, strength training, flexibility training and reflection (meditation, yoga, etc.) Click here for more information and to register for this free challenge. Those who complete the challenge will receive a Bellin Run headband.
The 45th annual Bellin Run, a virtual event, will take place June 12-21. For more information or to register beginning March 1, visit bellinrun.com. Follow the Bellin Run on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.