Time is running short for race registration discount

Time is running out to register for the 2014 HealthPlus Brooksie Way and still get a $15 break on the registration fee. Runners and walkers who want to participate in any of the HealthPlus Brooksie Way races half marathon, 10k or 5k and register after Sept. 25 will see fees increase from $5-$15, depending on the race. The races are set for Sept. 28 and begin and end at the Meadow Brook Music Festival on the campus of Oakland University. Last minute registrations will be accepted at the HealthPlus Brooksie Way Expo on the Friday and Saturday preceding the race at the OU Recreation Center. Running legend Bill Rodgers will be appearing at the Expo to sign copies of his books and posters. "This is one of the premier road races in the Midwest," Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson said. "It's gotten bigger every year. This is a wonderful opportunity to get outside and engage in a healthy activity with thousands of your friends and family. I hope to see you there." The HealthPlus Brooksie Way, now in its seventh year, is named in memory of Brooks Stuart Patterson, a young father and the son of the county executive, who died in 2007. It has become one of the most popular regional fall half marathons. The 2013 race attracted 6,100 runners and walkers, including participants from 17 states and five countries. The course begins and ends at the Meadow Brook Music Festival on the campus of Oakland University and includes parts of the Clinton River and Paint Creek trails, Rochester Hills and downtown Rochester. Runners and walkers who have participated in past HealthPlus Brooksie Way races will note a course modification, which now takes them on Dutton Road. The change was made necessary because Tienken Road is not available because of ongoing construction. New for 2014, timing mats will be placed at the bottom and top of Dutton Road between miles nine and 10 on the half mile course. The male and female runners with the fastest times will get a special award for being the "king" and "queen" of Dutton Road. Online registration is available at www.TheBrooksieWay.com. Participants can also register online for the popular Team Challenge which sold out last year and celebrate after the race in the exclusive Team Challenge tent. All half marathon participants receive a long sleeve Brooks technical shirt. All participants receive finisher medals created especially for the race. The popular Kid's Race sponsored by Fifth Third bank is set for Sept. 27, the day before the bigger races. Kroger, the official half marathon sponsor, offers race applications in all Michigan stores. Mickey Shapiro is the 10k race sponsor. First Merit Bank is the 5k race sponsor. Volunteers are still being sought to help on the Friday and Saturday preceding the race and on race day. Those interested can see what volunteer opportunities are available by checking www.TheBrooksieWay.com. Published: Mon, Sep 22, 2014