The Resolution Run tradition is about more than just miles; it's about milestones. Every year, we gather to celebrate the progress we've made and the goals we've achieved, all while embracing the endless possibilities of the coming year. Make memories, make resolutions, and make the Resolution Run a cherished part of your New Year's Eve tradition!
The 41st Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run pulls over 400 runners and walkers for a 4.0-mile journey around Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, MI. It takes place on New Years Eve at 3:30 PM, starting near the EGR Middle School and Finishing in front of Collins Park.
While this race is simply a fun tradition to many people, its history started back in 1982 by the late Joe O’Brien, who owned and worked for Classic Race until last year when he sadly and unexpectedly died. Though well-hidden to the outside world, Joe also sadly struggled internally.
Joe co-founded Genesis Sports, an EGR running store and worked diligently to build his race timing business, Classic Race Management. Through Classic Race, Joe enthusiastically supported thousands of runners each year and founded the Reeds Lake Triathlon and the annual New Year's Resolution Run. For over 30 years Joe coached diving at East Grand Rapids High School and all across the region.
Throughout his coaching career he received many accolades and produced many champions, however his proudest achievement was helping athletes - at all levels - realize their potential in the pool and in their lives. He was also a familiar face to me, personally, as an EGR graduate (Class of 1985). Joe gave back to the EGR community and to athletes in so many ways. Because of that reason, I am passionate about the continuation of this event.
For the most part, the race itself (logistics, course, time) remains the same but this year we hope to scale it up by intentionally engaging the EGR community, the businesses, and anyone that would like to take part in this frigidly fun race around our beloved Reeds Lake.
This year, the 41st Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run will be held in Joe’s memory. We are committed to donating a part of the proceeds back to the GrandRapids Public Schools Foundation which will allocate the money to help the maintenance and repair of their pools for their athletes.
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Packet Pick up will be Friday, Dec 30th
Jose Babushka's
2232 Wealthy Street SE
East Grand Rapids
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Saturday Dec 31th
2:00pm-3:30pm
Big Bob's Pizza
661 Croswell
East Grand Rapids, MI 49506
In the heart of Gaslight Village, right across from Jersey Junction.
Join us for Awards!
Original Course: Strava
Begin and end at the cross walk in front of Collins Park
Running Counter Clockwise around Reeds Lake. (Down Hall Street Hill)
Approximately 4 miles
The Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation is the strategic fundraising partner of the Grand Rapids Public Schools. They are a nonprofit that works to help raise money and resources for GRPS, so that all GRPS students can have an opportunity to learn, grow, thrive and participate in sports! https://grpsf.org/
GRPS Foundation FaceBook
Top 3 in each age group awarded. (Male and Female)
13 & Under
14-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-49
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
75-79
80+