The Gene Bednarowski Memorial Run has traditionally been run on the 4th of July weekend, and this year is no exception to that rule. We are actually running on July 4th this year. The event is in memory of Gene Bednarowski, a former Watervliet mentor, teacher, and coach. Proceeds support the Watervliet Track and Field Program.
At one time in the history of this event, there was also a 10K race and we are hoping to bring that back this year as well, providing we can get the approval from the State of Michigan. If the approval comes through, the race will be run through neighborhood streets, along the scenic Paw Paw Lake and through the city of Watervliet.
We are also happy to be partnering with the Fruitbelt Run Series again. This race can now count towards the completion of Fruitbelt series, which allows competitors to run a series of 5 races which will result in a series medal. This year's prize is a special medal commemorating the 20th year.
We will have overall male and female winners plus age group winners and placers, 1st - 3rd.
5K Groupings: 10 and under, 11-13, 14-16, 17-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34,
35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+
Awards & Prizes:
1 Mile youth race (13 and under): Awards for the top 10 finishers. Youth racers receive a t-shirt with entries by June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date
5k & 10K run/walk: Awards for the top 3 male and female winners in each division and the overall male and female finishers. 5k participants receive a t-shirt which is guaranteed to all entries received prior to June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date.
Virtual 5k run/walk: Virtual 5k participants receive a t-shirt which is guaranteed to all entries received prior to June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date. Shirts will be mailed to participants beginning week of July 6th.
Packet Pickup: Friday, July 3 from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM at Watervliet North Elementary School, and morning of the race starting at 7:00 AM. The address is 287 W. Baldwin Ave, Watervliet, MI 49098
Race day parking: Available at Watervliet North Elementary School.
The race will be timed by the Southwest Michigan Timing.
Jul 04, 2026
Distance — 1 Miles
Type — Running
08:00
$15.00
Jul 04, 2026
Distance — 10K Run
Type — Running
08:00
$35.00
Jul 04, 2026
Distance — 5K
Type — Running
08:00
$35.00
Jul 04, 2026
Distance — 5K
Type — Running
08:30
$35.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Watervliet.
Learn more about the host city, Watervliet.
There's more than one place called Watervliet:
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