GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The University of Michigan Health-West Grand Rapids Marathon is happening this weekend—and a record number of runners are expected to lace up their shoes to participate.
On Sunday, thousands of runners and spectators will be lining up in downtown Grand Rapids for the marathon.
The race will cover a "flat, fast" course that takes runners on a brief tour of downtown Grand Rapids and shows off the surrounding scenery. Runners will pass iconic buildings like the DeVos Place Convention Center and the Amway Grand Plaza. The route will then take participants to Millennium Park, where they will enjoy the fall colors on a scenic run.
Because this course is fast, many participants are aiming to quality for the Boston Marathon. Organizers said nearly 20% of last year's participants qualified using their time in the Grand Rapids Marathon.
But the race isn't only for serious runners.
“The Grand Rapids Marathon is more than a race—it’s a celebration of perseverance and the power of community,” said Race Director Don Kern. “We’ve designed it to be welcoming to everyone, from first-time marathoners to experienced runners looking for a Boston qualifier. No one is a stranger on this course, and we celebrate every finish line crossed.”
Officials estimate this year's race will have the largest turnout since 2016.
Along with the marathon, there will be a half marathon, a 10K and a 5K. Here's a look at the scheduled events for Sunday:
- 6 a.m. to race time – Packet pickup
- 7 a.m. – Early start for "Velocity Challenged" Marathon and Half Marathon
- 7:30 a.m. – Wheelchair and Hand Cycle Division, myTeam Triumph & Other Chariot Racers start
- 7:45 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies – National Anthem and Welcome
- 8 a.m. – Official start of Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay Teams
- 8:20 a.m. – Run Thru the Rapids 10K Start
- 8:30 a.m. – Run Thru the Rapids 5K Start
- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Runners cross the finish line
It's not too late to register for any of the races! You can do so here through Sunday.
