Jun 20, 2007 Solstice Run and the Corporate Cup Relays By Doug Kurtis :: Views- 316
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This Saturday morning, two premier summer events will offer runners the opportunity to challenge themselves. The Forester’s Solstice Run takes on some serious hills in Northville, while corporate teams face off at the Midwest Corporate Cup Relays on Southfield High’s track.

Compared to many races of its size (1200 runners) the Forester’s Solstice Run has become one of Michigan's most popular races in just five years. Offering top flight entertainment, family activities and a charming course may have something to do with its success.

Race Director Alan Whitehead has already received a record number of entries with each race running about even in participation. He said, "Few races in Michigan provide our entertainment value. Headliner band Ultra Violet returns to the main stage at Ford Field while other musicians perform out on our courses.”

As the course designer and operations director, I set out to showcase the best of Northville. The 10km course meanders through the township and city to finish next to the historic Mill Race Village and Pond. The 5km Run/Walk loops past hundreds of Victorian styled homes. Kids stay under watchful eye of their parents as they run around Ford Field all wearing number one.

The 7:30 am 10km start time should help runners beat the heat. There is a short gap between races with enough time to jump into the 5km at 8:45 if they still have some energy left in their legs. Karen Newman will be back singing the national anthem at the start of the 5km.
For more information visit the web site at: www.solsticerun.org or call Running Fit at 248 380-3338.

Team captains from the Midwest Corporate Athletic Association will have their work cut out as they strategize the best way to get the most from their talent. They also meet throughout the year to plan other corporate team events. This year marks 21 years of organizing the Corporate Cup Relays. It’s exciting to watch as companies battle on the track and field and on the road.

The CCR is about corporate team competition, and therefore, road running clubs and track clubs are not allowed to participate. All events have rules that prevent any one team from having an advantage purely based on speed. Team rules require athletes of various ages and gender to compete and score points. This keeps all the teams competitive, and allows individuals who are not the strongest or fastest, to make a difference for their team.

Companies compete in one of three divisions based on number of employees. Division I teams have 10,000+, Division II from 1,000 to 9,999 and Division III under 1000 employees. In Division I, Ford Motor Company, General Motors and Daimler Chrysler have dominated the top three places. Autoliv has been a top performer in Division II.

CCR is also about raising money for charities. The MWCAA involves fundraising for Michigan Humane Society, and Michigan Special Olympics. During the afternoon relay events, there is a break for team photos, and a Special Olympics 100m dash, featuring kids from local chapters. The Humane Society also brings out animals to introduce to the athletes. Adoptions by athletes at the event have become common.

5km, 10km road races along with shot put and high jump events begin in the morning. Track relays will begin at noon. Meet information can be obtained at: www.mwccr.org

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Doug Kurtis can be reached by clicking here!

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