Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run

The Resolution Run tradition is about more than just miles; it's a celebration! At the Res Run, 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! We are excited to announce that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will be our title sponsor again this year.

Traditionally the Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run pulls close to 600 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 John 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 passed away last year.  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, we are passionate about the continuation of this event. This year, the Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run will be held in Joe’s memory. We are committed to helping the Grand Rapids Public Schools Foundation raise money to help with the maintenance and repair of their pools for their athletes.

This is the first year under a new direction and we want to make Joe proud. For the most part, the race itself will remain the same but this year we plan to scale it up with fancy die-cast medals, fantastic overall awards from Striders and Pursuit of Happiness, snow globe age group awards, hot chocolate bar, Fairlife, Pepsi and other fun elements. We are also engaging the Gaslight Businesses and providing a bigger and better packet pickup experience at José Babushka's and an after-party at Big Bob's post-race!