Bellin Run Celebrates 50 Years of Promoting Health and Community
Bellin Run nears 50th anniversary
Press Times
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The Bellin Run, a significant annual event in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is approaching its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1977 to promote cardiovascular health, it has grown from 881 participants in its first year to a peak of 20,000 in 2013, with George Kerwin, its founder, continuing to advocate for fitness and health.
- 01The Bellin Run started in 1977 as a one-time fundraising event and has become a local staple.
- 02Participation peaked at 20,000 runners in 2013, with 7,500 runners in the latest event.
- 03George Kerwin, the founder, remains involved despite retiring in 2018.
- 04Olympic Marathoner Frank Shorter, who won the inaugural race, will return for the 50th anniversary.
- 05The event relies heavily on volunteers and community support for its success.
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The Bellin Run, a prominent annual running event in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary on June 13, 2026. Initially intended as a one-time event in 1977 to fund a new cardio unit, it has evolved into a major community gathering, attracting thousands of participants each year. The inaugural race saw 881 runners, while participation peaked at 20,000 in 2013. George Kerwin, the founder and original race director, reflects on the event's growth and his own journey from a hospital housekeeping role to becoming the President of Bellin Health. Kerwin remains an advocate for cardiovascular health and fitness, continuing to support the run despite his retirement in 2018. Notably, Olympic Marathoner Frank Shorter, who won the first race with a time of 30:32, will return to participate in the milestone event. The success of the Bellin Run is attributed to the dedication of volunteers and the local running community, ensuring its place as a beloved summer tradition in Brown County.
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The Bellin Run promotes cardiovascular health and fitness within the community, encouraging residents to engage in physical activity.
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