Bay City Memorial Run

Event Overview

The Bay City Memorial Run is a running event on May 21, 2026, at Veterans Memorial Park in Bay City, Michigan. The event supports two beneficiary organizations: Blue Star Service Dogs and the Bay Veterans Foundation. Registration proceeds include a donation to these groups.

Race Events

The event features two in-person race distances and a virtual option:

• 5k run: A course that follows markers. The person leading the race carries an American flag, which must be the first to cross the finish line. A separate flag is carried by the leading male and female participants.
• Longer-k run: A distance longer than 5k but shorter than 10k. Participants stop roughly every 1.5k-2k to perform exercises like 22 pushups or 22 jumping jacks. The lead participant also carries a flag for the duration. Teamwork is encouraged, and the flag must not touch the ground. There is no time cutoff.
• Virtual run: An option for those unable to attend on the event day.

The event is open to runners, walkers, and ruckers. The total capacity for the in-person races is 200 participants, with a rolling start format.

Registration & Fees

The base registration fee for the run events is $10 if signed up by May 20, 2026. An optional embroidered, floppy hat can be added to the registration for an additional cost, making the total $35 if signed up by May 4, 2026. Day-of-event registration costs $15. Any leftover hats on race day will be sold for $25.

What Participants Receive

All participants receive a personalized dog tag. Those who opt for the hat add-on receive an embroidered, floppy hat designed to fit most head sizes. The event focuses on teamwork and honoring deceased military service members rather than individual achievement. The names of the flag bearers (standard bearers) for each race and gender are added to the flag staff. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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