🏃♀️ Race Overview
A Note from the White Lake Nutrition RunIt 5K Team
We’re thrilled to announce the 5th Annual Run White Lake 5K! Join us on Saturday, August 8th, 2026 at 9 AM as we hit the streets once again — this year as an official part of the White Lake Area Maritime Festival 2026!
We’re also excited to share that this year marks the launch of a new cause — one that carries the same heartbeat of community and hope, but with an even broader reach. Together, we’re continuing to run for something bigger than ourselves — for connection, for purpose, and for the place we call home.
🌱 The Bridge & Bloom Project
Bridge & Bloom Project grew out of a community that cared deeply — one that came together in the face of loss and chose hope.
- Starting Point: In 2022, the Run White Lake 5K began as a way to unite our town around mental health awareness and suicide prevention after a tragedy that deeply affected us all.
- Main Goal: What started as an event to honor that cause quickly became something more — a symbol of connection, compassion, and the belief that when we show up for one another, we can bring healing and light into even the hardest places.
- Turning Point: That first race was more than an event: it was a turning point, reminding us that healing begins when a community chooses to show up.
- Support Initiatives: Through that effort, our community also began supporting Hope Squad, a student-led initiative that equips teens to recognize when their peers are struggling.
💡 Mission & Vision
Mission Statement: Bridge and Bloom Project builds connections that help students thrive. We partner with schools and communities to provide mentorship, mental health awareness, nutrition resources, and leadership development—empowering young people to grow strong in every area of life.
Vision Statement: We envision a community where every student feels seen, supported, and strengthened—body, mind, and spirit. We exist to be the bridge between struggle and strength, between isolation and belonging, between who they are and who they’re becoming.
🏅 Race Day Schedule
- Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
- 7:30 AM: Race Day Registration & Packet Pickup
- 8:40 AM: Welcome & Community Prayer
- 8:50 AM: GROUP COLOR TOSS! (Don’t forget your color packet!)
🏆 Award Categories
- Overall Winners: Top Male & Female Overall
- Age Divisions: Male & Female categories for ages: 8 & Under, 9–12, 13–16, 17–22, 23–30, 31–40, 41–50, 51–60, 61–70, 71+
📦 Packet Pickup Info
- Early Pickup: Friday, July 25 | 12:00–5:00 PM at White Lake Nutrition – 3311 E Colby St, Suite E, Whitehall
- Race Day Pickup: Saturday, July 26 | 7:30–8:30 AM at White Lake Chamber Depot – 124 W Hanson St., Whitehall
🚻 Parking, Bathrooms & Aid Stations
- Parking Options: Lions Park, Goodrich Park, North Mears Lot (search: Mylan’s Waterfront Grille, 115 N Mears). Please do not park at Napa, or WaterDog Outfitters.
- Bathrooms: Porta-johns near the Chamber Depot, Public restroom near Montague Foods.
- Aid Stations: Located outside the Chamber Depot, on-course medical support provided by White Lake Fire Authority.
- Emergency Contact: In an emergency, dial 911.
👥 Spectator Spots
Spectators are welcome! Great viewing areas include:
- Chamber Depot (start/finish)
- Covell Park near the bridge
- Trailway Campground area
- Behind Montague Foods off Spring St.
🥤 Post-Race Refreshments
All participants will enjoy free light snacks, water, and hydration drinks at the finish line.
💚 Support Mental Health & Hope Squad Programs
Your participation helps fund mental health initiatives and student-led Hope Squad programs across Muskegon County.
To make a donation or learn more, click “Donate 4 Ava” at the top or bottom of this page.
📞 Need Help or Have Questions?
- Email: jenna@bridgeandbloomproject.org
- Phone: White Lake Nutrition – (231) 894-0455
💙 You’re Not Alone
If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, help is available 24/7: Dial 988 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat
PLEASE NOTE: If you have registered AFTER July 11th you will not be guaranteed a race t-shirt, or correct size.
Race Registration Link