Registration is open for the 46th Annual Big Bird Run in Roseville – Macomb Daily

It’s almost time for the Big Bird Run.

Anyone interested in participating in the 46th Annual 10K, 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run, beginning at 8:15 a.m. Nov. 10, is asked to register now.

“Our Big Bird Run has been a successful event over the past 46 years for several reasons,” said Tom Lipinski, executive director of the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe (RARE). “One of the recurring comments we get from runners is that they like the course. It’s quick and our check-in and setup is well organized.”

He credits the many volunteers, staff and city departments that support the event, including the Roseville Police and Fire Departments and the Roseville Department of Public Services, who help keep the courses safe and well-marked, which encourages many runners to come back year after year.

It is also an event for runners of all abilities and ages. The Big Bird Run 10K even hosted several Olympians, including Brian Sell (American marathon runner at the 2008 Olympics) and Desiree (Davila) Linden (American marathon runner at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, as well). Winner of the 2018 Boston Marathon).

“Many families are participating and runners are excited about the chance to win one of 20 frozen turkeys in our raffle (registration only),” Lipinski said. “They also like our ‘exclusive’ long sleeve Big Bird Run shirts.”

Anyone who would like to take part can register in advance or on the day of the event.

Entry fees are: $25 for the Mile Run; $35 for the 5,000; $40 for the 10K run through November 8th, plus $5 if you register on race day. Race day registration begins at 8:15 a.m., followed by the race at 10:00 a.m. Runners are asked to meet at the Recreation Authority Center, 18185 Sycamore St. in Roseville.

To pre-register, visit eastsideracingcompany.com or rare-mi.org.

In addition to the turkey raffle and exclusive teas, registration also includes age group prizes and a variety of other raffle prizes.

The Big Bird Run 10K, which runs along Gratiot Avenue to the Interstate-696 pedestrian bridge and several residential streets and is certified by the United States Association of Track and Field.

The race’s long-time supporter, Hansons Running Shops, will provide gloves to all runners and give away prizes. Petitpren Distributors, also a long-time supporter of the event, will provide prizes for age group winners in the 10K and 5K races, as well as unique raffle prizes. Other freebies include bagels, compliments of Sam’s Club, bottled water and fruit for runners, compliments of Joe Randazzo’s Fruit and Vegetables.

The race, which has become a fall tradition for many families, has become a popular running event — even covered by Michigan Runner Magazine — but its main purpose is to raise money for nonprofit groups that provide volunteers for the race . This year, the Roseville Optimist Club, Kiwanis Clubs, Roseville Lion’s Club, Goodfellows, Roseville High School Band Boosters, Live Rite, ASPIRE and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity are providing support and benefiting from the proceeds.

Over the years, the runs have brought in between $5,000 and $10,000 annually for the groups.

“I don’t have exact numbers for each year, but it is estimated that the Big Bird Run donated over $250,000 to the community,” Lipinski said.

For more information, call 586-445-5480 or visit rare-mi.org.