The new location was selected because of the expandable area it provides and the possibilities for multiple level event marketing. This location is in an area of economic impact development for Elkhart County, with good restaurants, shopping and the Elkhart Sports Center. It is also a prime east side location for race central office where charitable pledge fundraising walk/run events benefiting local 2012 Elkhart County not-for-profits may be organized.
Before triathlons became popular the Great Race was doing multiple events and are still a part of the Great Race scene by choosing any 3 of the 2012 optional events offered, including running, biking and in-line skating skills over the three (3) day holiday to encourage a healthy life style and energy release.
Interestingly enough, between 40% and 60% of the race entries come from athletes in major cities and towns in (4) Midwest states. The Great Race is the area's first major race to use electronic race chips for timing at the finish line. This simplifies the accuracy of cash award ceremonies. The electronic chip will also be used for the ABR/ "McDonald's Red Rocket" Bike Race (the fastest race in town) from Goshen to downtown Elkhart in 2012.
The Great Race followed the success of Gayle Baron who ran and finished the Boston Marathon at a time when female entrants were protested against. The next year she ran in the Great Race and we're pleased and proud to say she was a 10K cash prize winner.
The Jim Ryun Four Minute Mile Race will be featured again in 2012 on the Concord High School track. Anyone able to break his high school record (under four minutes) will win a $1,000 cash prize.
The annual Sports Festival, now in its 32nd year, and which has grown in popularity as the area's first spring race event will be moved from spring to the end of summer over the 3-day Labor Day weekend on September 1, 2 and 3, 2012. Running, biking and inline skating sharing in $14,000 in cash prizes will be offered to qualified winners.
The Honorable Indiana State Senator, Richard Lugar, awarded recognition to the Great Race for its competitive race achievements and fundraising successes. This is the only charity race in Indiana with a mission statement since 1981 to promote not-for-profit sporting events. It sends a positive and challenging message to 2012 race participants and agencies who will win, care for others and join in the spirit of Great Race "Recovery 2012."
More information, or for photo opportunities contact:
The Great Race, Inc.
Ron Schmanske
24 Hour Hotline (574) 293-7835 or (574) 849-1056
or email greatraceservices@gmail.com