The new race name still takes a little getting used to but the event now in its 26^th year is still near the top of the must do list of runners throughout Michigan and the Midwest. The scenic banks of the Grand River, the first class operation and tough competition continue to encourage runners to make the drive to Grand Rapids.

Leading up to the event, race director Kristen Aidif has helped develop a number of programs to promote the race as well as fitness. Exercise scientist and renowned coach Roy Benson was featured at several clinics throughout Michigan to discuss training with the use of a heart monitor. Seven time winner Greg Meyer, the official coach and elite runner recruiter was also in involved in several group training runs.

The race partnered with 63 area elementary schools involving 20,000 kids to promote running. Two or more days a week at lunch and recess, students were encouraged by their teachers and club coordinators to walk, jog or run on a school course to log miles and qualify for prize incentives.

Open and Masters Clydesdale divisions have been created for men over 189 lbs and women over 145 lbs who aren't as svelte as the elites. Medals for to the top three in two weight classes will be recognized for their efforts. Also brand new will be a $250 prize and trophy for the person who finishes exactly in the middle of the pack.

For the first time, the Fifth Third River Bank Run is hosting several sport military teams. The Michigan Army National Guard and Officer Candidate School will prepare for the run as part of a new military division in team competition. All members must be active or reserve United States Military and the team competition fees will be waived.

For the eighth consecutive year this event has been designated as the USA National 25km Championship. Top American athletes will compete for $21,000 in prize money. An additional $15,000 will encourage open and international runners to compete plus a $5,000 bonus for setting a world record. New this year is the USA Master's Championship with $6,300 to attract over 40 national class runners. The wheelchair racing division has always been top notch, especially with $15,600 in rewards.

"The elite field this year is going to be extremely competitive and deep," says Meyer. 2:09 marathoner, David Morris of New Mexico is scheduled to defend the winner's circle. Peter De La Cera of Colorado who finished second at the River Bank Run in 2001 is slated to return along with Joseph Kariuki of Kenya who set a former 25km world record (1:13:55) on the River Bank Run course in 1998. The open division of the women's competition will see Teresa Wanjiku of Kenya defend her title. The Master's Championship will feature two other runners from New Mexico. The ubiquitous Eddy Hellebuyck and Ann Marie Boyd will head a solid list of over 40 performers. Former Detroit Free Press Marathon Wheelchair winner, Krige Schabort has marked May 10^th on his calendar to repeat his 2002 victory. Schabort won seven major races in 2002.

More than 8,000 runners are expected to participate. Over 45% of the registration for the run is currently coming in via the race's website. This is more than a 20% increase over on-line registration from last year. Late registration is still available on Friday May 9^th from 11 am to 8 pm at the Grand Center in downtown Grand Rapids. If you want to live on the edge you have 45 minutes to sign up on race day.