IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Bellin Health and Iron Mountain’s new Kwik Trip have signed on as new sponsors for Iron Mountain’s highly anticipated Half Marathon, set to take over the city in just a few weeks. In addition to the traditional 13.1-mile course, the race organizers have included shorter distances and a relay option for those who prefer a different challenge. The Run Iron Mountain race director, Sara Pericolosi, revealed that this year’s event will continue to benefit the Cancer Loan Closet, a cause that has received over $149,000 in donations to date. However, an exciting addition has been made to the list of beneficiaries.
“We’ve donated over $149,000 to date. But this year we also recognize that there are so many people in our community that are doing great things, and we’re going to give back to the Northwoods air lifeline as well. And so when you run with us, all of the proceeds go and they stay local. And they help local families,” explained Pericolosi, emphasizing the event’s commitment to supporting the community.
The race director also highlighted the importance of creating a sense of community through the event. “It’s really about creating a sense of community. And so, if you come down on race day as a runner, we’re here to celebrate your journey, and if you’re here as a volunteer, it’s such a positive and uplifting community,” shared Pericolosi, emphasizing the positive and uplifting atmosphere that both runners and volunteers can expect.
With the support of Bellin Health and Kwik Trip, the Iron Mountain Half Marathon is expected to be a memorable event that not only brings the community together but also makes a tangible difference in the lives of local families. As race day approaches, the excitement continues to build, and participants and volunteers alike eagerly await the opportunity to be part of this incredible community celebration.
“We have a distance for everyone, so we start with a 2-mile fun run or walk, all the way up to a 5k, and last year we added a 10k, and what we’ve really seen this year is those numbers are growing for people who want to do more than 5 miles but are not ready for 13 miles. So, 6.2 seems like a great option for those individuals. Of course, we have the half marathon, 13.1. And then we also do a relay, a 3-person relay. Which comes out to be a little over 3 miles for two legs and then 6 miles for Fumee is the middle,” Pericolosi explained, highlighting the variety of race distances available to cater to different preferences and fitness levels.
Exciting changes have also been made to the race route and finish line location. “So this year we decided to finish right in front of the library. We’re going to be right downtown with the stage. We are also partnering with the Iron Mountain Farmer’s Market. So when you come down on race day, you’re going to see our DJ standing on the stage, you’re gonna be able to see all the amazing vendors through the farmer’s market. And we’ll be finishing and starting right across from the library. So we’re really excited to just have that sense of community, that buzz that we really want to see in our community,” Pericolosi added, expressing her enthusiasm for the new finish line location and the collaboration with the local farmer’s market.
With the race scheduled for Saturday, September 23, the anticipation continues to build. The Iron Mountain Half Marathon promises to be a day filled with community spirit, excitement, and the celebration of personal achievements. As the event draws near, the support from returning sponsors such as John Fornetti Dental, the Mariucci Family Foundation, and CCI Systems, ensures that the runners and volunteers will have an unforgettable experience.
To secure your spot in one of the running events, please visit:
https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/MI/IronMountain/IMRTHalfMarathon
