July 28. 2010

More than 1,000 area runners will invade Dowagiac Saturday morning with just one thing in mind.

Finishing Steve’s run.

Now in its 36th year, Steve’s Run is more than just another road race.

It’s a chance to remember those who have been taken from us by cancer and a chance to celebrate life all rolled into one.

Originally known as the Road ‘n’ Trail Race, Steve’s Run will pit both competitive and recreational runners against the challenge of the 10K and 5K courses.

Steve’s Run is for both runners and walkers.

It’s a unique blend of styles, both on the course and off it.

It is also a chance for generations of family members to band together and take part in what has been called one of the greatest road races not only in Michigan, but also the entire United States.

What makes Steve’s Run different from other road races is the entire community of Dowagiac comes together to put on a showcase.

From the aid stations to the music playing along the race route, everything is first class and that includes the hand-made stained glass awards that are handed out when it’s all said and done.

What begins in downtown Dowagiac, winds through a golf course, a cemetery and the trails of Southwestern Michigan College, ends up at Lions Park just south of the downtown area.

In the park runners gather to greet and congratulate one another.

It is also a place where people gather to reunite after not having seen each other for the past 12 months or sometimes even longer.

People have even gotten married at Steve’s Run.

Race Director Ron Gunn and his host of outstanding volunteers, many of whom get up long before the runners even reach Dowagiac to begin preparing for the race, deserve a great big “thank you” for all their efforts.

There is still time to sign up for Steve’s Run.

Registration will continue right up until the race begins at 9 a.m.

So if you haven’t signed up yet, make your way to Dowagiac on Saturday morning, find one of the many volunteers who will be glad to help get you signed up and ready to compete in a true Dowagiac originals.

If you are not a runner, that’s fine. Get out and support the runners as they pass through downtown Dowagiac, or get out on the course and cheer them on.You will most certainly put a smile on their faces.