50th Annual Dick Bessel Independence Day Run Date: July 4th, 2026 Location: Grand Island Town Hall 2255 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072 Start Time: 9:00 AM (Kids) 9:10 AM (2.3 mile run) *** No rollerblades, bikes, animals, or strollers*** Course Cut Off Time: 9:55AM ** To ensure that the parade starts on time, we ask that all participants are off the course by 9:55 AM. Any one left on course will be asked to move to the sidewalk. Kids Race - 314 meters Ages 4-10 only. No entry under 4 years of age will be accepted. 9:00 AM start at official starting line in front of Tops Market. Entry form is required.
Hotels Near This Race
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Dick Bessel Independence Day Run 2026 — Grand Island, NY
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 4.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Grand Island, NY.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
