Simsonian 5K Kick Off Classic #24 2026 — Grosse Ile, MI

Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic #24 The 24th Annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic is scheduled for Saturday morning, August 15, 2026. This year's race will be even more exciting as the Sims Run will be celebrating 250 years of independence for the USA and Grosse Ile. The 1 mile Fun Run/Walk starts at 8:30 a.m., and the 5K (3.1 Mile) Race at 9:00 a.m. This year in honor of the semiquincentennial, race directors are asking all runners, walkers, or strollers to dress in your best patriotic gear to show your American pride. The Simsonian 5K carries on the legacy of beloved GIHS teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who died unexpectedly in 2003 of a dissecting aortic aneurysm. Sims was the winningest coach in Grosse Ile women’s track & field, and women’s basketball. As a teacher, he was instrumental in developing strong, independent young women and men. All proceeds from the run go to the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship, given to outstanding male and female scholar/athletes. Race day will involve an historic run, coveted commemorative T-shirts, special 250 remembrance, D.J. after race party, raffles, and medals for age categories three deep. There will be a special prize for best costume! You won’t want to miss this historic event! 'Cause "that's the Spirit that Made America!"