Totally street legal Simsonian 5K celebrates its great tradition

Runners, walkers, and health enthusiasts of all ages will take to the streets in late summer for the 21st Annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic. The 1 mile fun run/walk, and the 5K race have become, ahem. . . a long running tradition on Grosse Ile.

The Friends and Family of Steve Sims have joined forces with the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. to make this the best road racing fundraiser yet. The partnership with the GIEF, which began last year, offers a fun, family-filled event which shares a common bond—advancing the education of Grosse Ile’s outstanding male and female scholar/athletes at Grosse Ile High School.

This year’s scholarships were awarded to 2023 graduates, Tyler Swick and Samantha Justusson.

To date, more than $51,000 have been awarded throughout race history. All proceeds from the race go to the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship.

The 21st annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic will again offer both an in-person and virtual race option for all to enjoy.

The Grosse Ile traditional in-person race will be held Saturday August 19, 2023, at Grosse Ile High School 7800 Grays Drive. All participants can register before August 19 on runsignup.com. You can also sign-up on race day at the Grosse Ile High School track.

The One Mile (1) Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 5K race starting at 9 a.m.

The course is a fast, flat course with views of the Detroit River and natural areas, with a finish on the

Grosse Ile High School track. Runners receive a coveted T-shirt, DJ’d after race party, refreshments, and great raffle prizes (must be present to win).

For those who cannot join us in-person, the Friends of Sims are offering the wildly popular alternative Virtual Race experience, with the window of competition from Aug. 1 to Aug. 18, 2023. You can use your GPS to map your 5K and run, walk, or crawl your own race, at your own place, at your own pace. If you are not able to participate in the live or virtual events, supporters can donate and help advance this most worthy cause.

The 21th Annual Simsonian is held in memory of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who died unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm in 2003 at age 46.

Steve was the winningest coach in Grosse Ile history in both Girls’ Basketball, and Girls’ Track and Field. But, more so, he was known for his great sense of humor, his ability to inspire his students and athletes, and his passion for excellence. He was instrumental in developing strong, independent young men and women.

So, your participation and support go to advance the spirit and legacy of Steve Sims in paying it forward to another generation of promising youth--just what the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. has done for almost 30 years.

Cost of registration for the Virtual Race is a flat fee of $30 (includes postage and handling) for all ages and categories. After registering, an email will be sent to you with all information you will need to upload your results and photos to see how you rank among the other racers.

Cost for in-person participation for both Fun Run and 5K are:

Children ages 10 and under – $10.

Students 18 and under – $20.

Adults – $25.

Late (after August 13, 2023) or Race Day Registration – 10 and Under $15, Students $25 and Adults $30.

Awards for In Person Race: 5K first male/female overall. Gold, Silver, Bronze each Male/Female age group 12 & under; 13-16; 17-20; 21-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 & over.

Package pick-up will be at the Grosse Ile High School track on August 19, 2023, beginning at 7:15 a.m.

So, come join as you can to support a great time and an even better cause. ‘Cause, “That’s the Spirit that Made America!”