Veteran Crim racers find friendship, pride in Flint event

Former Michigan Speaker of the House Bobby Crim launched his 10-mile road race in Flint back in 1977.

Crim wanted a world-class race in his hometown, but he also wanted to create a foundation to support mentally handicapped athletes. He accomplished that goal -- and more.

Today, the Crim Festival of Races  includes an 8K race, a 5K family walk and a Teddy Bear Trot for children.

The event attracts thousands of participants and spectators, and is a family weekend destination, with entertainment, food and activities. The race also supports community and school fitness programs.

The race benefits Big Brother/Big Sisters of Greater Flint, Fair Winds Girl Scouts, Shelter of Flint, Genesee County Literacy Coalition and the Crim Youth Development Program.

More than 70 runners and walkers have participated in at least 30 consecutive Crim races. Some of them met with Michigan Radio radio recently to talk about what the race means to them and their community. They share their thoughts in this audio postcard from Flint.