More than half of today's 4,617 Cellcom Green Bay 5K participants were under the age of 18.
76 schools are members of the Prevea LUV2RUN program, a six-week curriculum that teaches elementary and middle school children the basics of running and proper nutrition. Prevea provides supplies and athletic training consultation. The schools and program organizaers helped train 1,750 students who participated in today's 3.1-mile race.
The race's route began on Lombardi Avenue and circled around and into Lambeau Field, including a lap around the field itself.
For first-place finisher Mark Allen, 26 of Port Washington, running through Lambeau was just as memorable as running through the finish line first.
"I probably went a little slower than I should have been just because I was trying to take in all the scenery," said Allen. "I've been to a Packer game before, but actually being able to run through the tunnel and everything was a pretty awesome experience for sure."
Allen had not competed in a 5K in three or four years, he said, but said his 16:52 time was "a good rust-buster, a good start."
31-year-old Callie Bartel of Green Bay finished first among females, with a 19:36 time.
For most, it was a fun family affair. Jason Kozick ran with his wife, daughter and son.
"It's a nice, fun, healthy activity. It's nice to get outside and just do something healthy and you feel good afterwards," he said. He ran mostly with his daughter, Gabriella, 9, as son Michael, 11, sped ahead of them. Kozick said he and his daughter most enjoyed the stretch of the race inside Lambeau Field.
Michael Kozick's favorite part? "I think right now," he said with a smile, referring to his post-race snack.
Now that the 5K race is finished, the half, relay and full marathon races kick off Sunday at 7 a.m., running throughout the morning.
