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Spring Running Season is on its Way!

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

With so many things to love about spring, runners and walkers can all agree that it’s a wonderful time to get back outside. Fresh air, added sunlight, and the beauty of spring blooms all make a positive impact on our moods.

Take a look at our list of Spring Running Events and sign up for a race today! You’ll find events for every ability, including full marathons, mile walks, fun runs, and more. Setting a goal now can be a great motivation as you begin the season. If you need help getting started, check out the Brooksie Way Training program which kicks off on March 22nd and is suited for all levels of ability.

Are you ready to set out for a walk, jog, or long distance run? Spring temperatures can fluctuate quickly and don’t forget about precipitation. Be sure to follow these simple tips for safe running.

  • Check the weather before you head out
  • Warm up – especially when temps are cooler
  • Invest in proper footwear
  • Run during daylight hours when possible
  • Use a running light, like an illuminated vest, headlamp, or waist light when dark
  • Dress in layers

We’re so happy that a new season is around the corner and can’t wait to hit the ground running this spring in Oakland County!

The 10th Brooksie Way! What a Hot Race!

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

The 10th annual Brooksie Way was undoubtedly a hot one, but that didn’t stop over 4,500 runners and walkers from completing last Sunday’s race. Temps hovered in the mid to high 80s, but 5k, 10k, and half marathon racers were brimming with energy and excitement!

5,000 volunteers and about 10,000 spectators lined the beautiful course that began at Oakland University. Half marathon walkers and runners continued through the city of Rochester Hills, Downtown Rochester, along the Paint Creek and Clinton River Trails, and ended back at the university.

Check out our video to see all of the race day fun! If you were a runner, walker, volunteer, or supporter, you just may find yourself in it!

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Celebrate the Brooksie Way’s 10th Anniversary!

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

Thousands of runners and walkers will be gearing up to participate in the 10th running of the McLaren Brooksie Way this Sunday morning at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on the grounds of Oakland University!

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, 40 sponsors and at least 115 legacy runners and walkers who have participated in each of the first nine McLaren Brooksie Way races were honored during a Gala Sponsor’s Reception yesterday evening. The 10-year athletes received express pickup of their race packets and a special race shirt noting their achievement.

Take a look at the Brooksie Way 10th Anniversary video to view some favorite race memories through the years and hear commentary from Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson and Brooksie Way Board Members: 1983 Boston Marathon Winner Greg Meyer and Olympic Running Champion Bill Rodgers.

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From Start to Finish – The 2016 Brooksie Way

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

It was a brisk fall morning. Music filling Meadowbrook Amphitheater grounds on the campus of Oakland University at 6:30 a.m.

Runners and walkers arrived as the sun rose, all geared up and ready to take on the 2016 HAP Brooksie Way Half Marathon, 10K and 5K.

From super hero costumes to tutus, runners and walkers alike came dressed to show their excitement.

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The HAP Brooksie Way is considered one of Oakland County‘s premier quality of life events, started by L. Brooks Patterson who wanted to encourage people to become more physically active.

The first annual race took place in October of 2008 and was named in honor of the late Brooks Stuart Patterson, Patterson’s son.

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It’s a Race to the Finish – Oakland County Fall Running Events

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

It’s not always about winning.

Sports, particularly running, create a sense of camaraderie, community and a true sense of belonging. Working toward specific goals gives athletes of all types a true sense of self. It’s competition in its truest form.

At every race, a gunshot rings out. Chatter among the crowd ceases as the runners take their first steps onto the course. Cheers then erupt from spectators in support of their family member and loved one.

It’s easy to get started with our fall guide to races in and around Oakland County.

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