Runners, walkers and cancer fighters of all ages will once again lace up their sneakers for an in-person Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K Saturday, May 20.

The race/walk will start and end near the Big Rapids Bandshell behind the middle school in Big
Rapids. The 5K route will head north into Northend Riverside Park and participants will enjoy
scenic views along the Big Rapids Riverwalk.

“We’re delighted that with COVID-19 subsiding we’ll again be able to host an in-person event,”
said race organizer John Norton. “For many, this event is an annual reunion in the fight against
cancer where the community comes together to encourage those on their cancer journey.”

Event proceeds benefit the wellness center at the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer
Center in Reed City, part of Corewell Health. The wellness center includes a resource library,
beauty boutique, gift shop and integrative therapy rooms. Patients have access to services
such as massages, acupuncture, reflexology, wig fittings and more. The center hosts support
groups and educational sessions to assist patients on the road to recovery.

All wellness services are provided free of charge thanks to generous donations to the Wellness
Fund and from events such as the Wheatlake run/walk.

The 5K race is timed with medals for top male and female finishers in 12 age divisions.

Registration is $35 for the run, $30 for wellness walk and $25 for a virtual option, available for
those who wish to participate individually on their own time.

All entries include a 2023 Wheatlake Wellness Walk & 5K race shirt. Kids shirts are also
available for $10.

Children are welcome to participate with registered adults in the 5K run or walk. Strollers and
wheelchairs are welcomed.

Memorial and encouragement stakes will once again be available for $10 and will be displayed
along the start line to honor loved ones.

 

2 Packet pick up and late registration will be from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. May 19 at Big Rapids
Hospital Professional Office Building.

You can register or purchase stakes online at spectrumhealth.org/wheatlake-races.