KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Kalamazoo Marathon/Borgess “Run for the Health of It” will move its start/finish line to Western Michigan University and feature the trails and parks in the City of Portage next May.
“We’re grateful for a community that values these important events,” Race Director Blaine Lam said in the press release. “Our race committee, Community Advisory Council, sponsors and volunteers will work to create something special in the spirit of community health.”
Half of the marathon will be held in Portage with most of the event taking place on the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail. This will be the 10th Kalamazoo Marathon and 41st Borgess Run.
“We see this as a great fit,” Portage Mayor Patricia Randall. “The beauty of our trails is well known to many people, but this event will showcase just how extensive our trail system has become.”
The move of the start/finish line to WMU is meant to provide a fresh experience for long-time participants in the race, among other advantages.
“Western has been a major partner and sponsor of the marathon from the outset,” WMU Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communications Jeff Breneman said. “We’re looking forward to playing host to an event that brings visitors to our community from across the country.”
Several factors have played into the switch from the previous location, which was held at the Nazareth campus. Some reasons were listed as rising levels of the Kalamazoo River, along with limited traffic access.
Event organizers will be working with local businesses and residents to decide the best possible course in order to help minimize any inconveniences while maximizing community involvement.
Organizers will also be working with local officials to decide the best possible courses for the 5K, Priority Health 5K Walk, 10K, half marathon and full marathon races.
But don’t worry. They say the famous “Bacon Station” in the Winchell Neighborhood will still be along the course, it will just welcome 10K and half marathon runners this year instead of marathoners.
The lineup of events for the big race weekend is scheduled for May 1st through the 3rd.
