WGVU Public Media, which is owned by Grand Valley State University, is set to host its inaugural Shelley Irwin Fun Run on April 19. The event is named after Shelley Irwin, a local radio host and producer of her eponymous show and is set to benefit WGVU by functioning as a fundraising event.
The event will include a 5k fun run, two-mile walk, one-mile dog walk and kids’ run and aims to promote exercise health in the community. All participants will receive a commemorative medal and T-shirt. In addition, there will be an Easter egg hunt and Easter Bunny appearance.
Irwin was inspired to organize the festivities because of her love for running. She has competed in similar 5k events and triathlons, but is excited to participate this time around with WGVU and the local community.
“It’s an opportunity not only to strengthen the heart, but sharpen the mind,” Irwin said. “I enjoy taking one step at a time to achieve a goal, whether it’s training for a 5k, a triathlon or a marathon.”
Iriwn feels the race has the benefit of bringing like-minded people together. Since it will be the inaugural fun run, she is hoping to set the tone going forward and make the event a staple in the West Michigan community.
“One always looks to the ‘inaugural’ for setting the bar, but here’s hoping this event will encourage an annual healthy gathering,” Irwin said. “In my world, (I hope) do this every year to both fund and friend-raise in the spirit of fitness.”
Irwin said the idea started as a unique fundraising opportunity for WGVU and morphed into a community event that focuses on health and wellness.
Laura Caprara, who owns the digital marketing firm Stellafly, is acting as the race’s director. Caprara seeks to bring awareness to a cause she truly believes in: the role of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“As a long-time advocate for fitness and community engagement, it was a natural fit to help organize an event that brings people together while encouraging physical activity,” Caprara said. “My background in community events and network of local contacts made it possible to gather the right team to make this run a success.”
Caprara said she originally became involved in the fun run because of her connection to Irwin, as they both knew each other from the local running scene. With the inaugural event comes the pressure of hosting an enjoyable gathering—Caprara is ready for the challenge.
“Beyond the numbers, we want to create an inclusive experience by adding adaptive race options and expanding our family-friendly activities,” Caprara said. “We’ve set a goal to make this the most community-focused fun run yet.”
As far as Caprara is concerned, there are many benefits to holding a fun run. An emphasis on community is something that Caprara and Irwin both highlighted.
“Events like the run create essential community bonds while promoting health and wellness,” Caprara said. “They (runs) bring together people of all ages and backgrounds in a positive environment.”
To Caprara, attendees at fun runs are able to recognize how their participation directly benefits both their personal health and the community.
“It’s a wonderful way for families to be active together and for individuals to challenge themselves in a supportive setting,” Caprara said. “We’ve made sure there’s something enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re running or cheering.”
