GREEN BAY, Wis. — Thousands of runners and walkers participated in the 43rd annual Bellin Run on Saturday.
The annual 10K has grown into one of the biggest races of its kind in the country.
Volunteers say it's race day that makes all the hard effort throughout the year worth it.
"It's a fun event whether you run it, walk it, or even volunteer, or just come out to cheer them on," volunteer Susan Finco said.
Jared Ward was the first man to cross the finish line from this year's race.
Risper Gesabwa won the women's race.
Both of the athletes run around the world, and finished today with great things to say about Green Bay.
"The people here are different. It's a very down to earth community, Ward said. "This is my fourth time coming and I brought my wife this time because I wanted her to meet the people and see the area."
"This race, it is really special to us," Gesabwa said. "They are close to us - the race coordinator, race organizer, the community, all of them, they are close to us."
They will both have a chance to defend their title in next year's race.
