July 4th Races
- By Doug Kurtis

Fireworks and family activities mark 4 th of July celebrations. A number of Michigan races on this holiday weekend are tied into community events.   Organizers help put a focus on fitness and family while sparking an interest in travel to local destinations.

Frankenmuth's Volkslaufe (the people's race) began with the 1976 bi-centennial when the local Jaycees were asked to organize and sponsor an event.   Nearly every year the chapter finds a new volunteer to take on the role of race director. Volkslaufe attracts almost 2,500 runners to its events that include a 2km fun run, 5km run/walk, 10km and 20km.   Its success derives from the groundwork of the Jaycees and their connection to the citizens, businesses and government of Frankenmuth. That combined with Heritage Park's beautiful setting for the start and finish and the atmosphere of Michigan's Little Bavaria make the race a must do for traveling runners. Plus age group award winners receive a souvenir from old-world Germany. German steins, imported from Hoer-Grenzhausen.

Many athletes arrive the night before to take in the live entertainment and fireworks.   There are wonderful Bavarian hotels, shops and eateries that make Volkslaufe worth a weekend stay. If you are new to running, this is a fabulous event to introduce your family to the sport. The race is Sunday July 3 at 8:00 am. Go to www.volkslaufe.org for information.

Fife Lake, located north of Cadillac, is one of those low-key events that offers almost every competitor a chance to get an award.   About 150 runners and walkers loop the lake before jumping into the cool water for refreshment. As a former winner, I can attest to that it is a fun race with a relaxed post race ceremony conducive to meeting other runners.   The race is July 3 at 9 am. Call race director Todd Antrim at 231-879-4458 for information

If you have the time to travel a bit further, Boyne City is hosting its 26 th annual 10km and 2 mile. Who wouldn't want to run along Lake Charlevoix this summer? All proceeds from the events go to purchasing fireworks. After the race there are daylong activities culminating with the night skyrockets. This year local merchants have donated gift certificates and products to create a memorable race. The event is on July 4 th at 7:30 am, starting and finishing in Sunset Park, behind the Chamber of Commerce.   Contact this year's first time directors Barb and Bill Bryant at [email protected] .

Tortoise and the Hare will be hosting its 7 th annual 4 th of July 5km. More than 700 runners will take to the streets of Ann Arbor for the very fast race. This year the Champion Chip will record one and two mile split times for runners.   The Kid's dash is open to children 10 and under has always drawn a good crowd. It's also part of a race series that includes the Hell-oween 10km and Turkey Trot 5km. The race is July 4 th beginning at 8 am. Call 734 769-9510 or go to www.tortoiseandhare.com