Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run
- Date
- July 4, 2026
- Distance
- 5K Run/Walk · 10K Run · 1 Mile Fun Run & more
From the Organizer
The Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run has traditionally been run on the 4th of July weekend, and this year is no exception to that rule. We are actually running on July 4th this year. The event is in memory of Gene Bednarowski, a former Watervliet mentor, teacher, and coach. Proceeds support the Watervliet Track and Field Program.
At one time in the history of this event, there was also a 10K race and we are hoping to bring that back this year as well, providing we can get the approval from the State of Michigan. If the approval comes through, the race will be run through neighborhood streets, along the scenic Paw Paw Lake and through the city of Watervliet. If we are denied the permit, we will convert those who sign up for the 10K to the 5K race or issue a refund.
We are also happy to be partnering with the Fruitbelt Run Series again. This race can now count towards the completion of Fruitbelt series, which allows competitors who run in at least 5 of the Fruitbelt races to earn a series medal. This year's prize is a special medal commemorating the 20th year.
We will have overall male and female winners plus age group winners and placers, 1st - 3rd.
5K Groupings: 10 and under, 11-13, 14-16, 17-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34,
35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+
Awards & Prizes:
1 Mile youth race (13 and under): Awards for the top 10 finishers. Youth racers receive a t-shirt with entries by June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date
5k & 10K run/walk: Awards for the top 3 male and female winners in each division and the overall male and female finishers. 5k participants receive a t-shirt which is guaranteed to all entries received prior to June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date.
Virtual 5k run/walk: Virtual 5k participants receive a t-shirt which is guaranteed to all entries received prior to June 26th. T-shirts available as supplies last after that date. Shirts will be mailed to participants beginning week of July 6th.
Packet Pickup: The current plan is to have packet pick up on Friday, July 3 from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM at Watervliet North Elementary School, and morning of the race starting at 7:00 AM. The address is 287 W. Baldwin Ave, Watervliet, MI 49098
Race day parking: Available at Watervliet North Elementary School.
The race will be timed by the Southwest Michigan Timing.
This will be updated as more information is available.
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
82°
Typical Low
61°
Chance of Rain
35%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Benton Harbor Ap, 9 mi from the venue.
Host City
About Watervliet, MI
Population
1,879
as of 2023
Elevation
617 ft
Nearest Airport
SBN
South Bend International Airport · 34 mi
Major Hub
GRR
Gerald R. Ford International Airport · 61 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
26
Days to train
- Race
- Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run
- Date
- July 4, 2026
Coming Up
More Running races near Watervliet, MI
2026 Hartford Strawberry Run
5 miles away
Dad Strong 5K Run/Walk
5K
11 miles away
4 on the 4th
12 miles away
12 Corners Wine Run 5k
5K
11 miles away
From Endurance Grid
About This Sport
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run?
- Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run is a running race held in Watervliet, Michigan on July 4, 2026. It is one of the many endurance events listed on Endurance Grid, a multi-sport endurance event calendar covering running races, triathlons, HYROX, and more endurance sports across the United States. Find more running races near you or explore our sports guides to learn what race day actually feels like.
- When and where is the Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run?
- Saturday, July 4, 2026 in Watervliet, Michigan at 287 W. Baldwin Ave, Watervliet, MI. Check the event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run?
- Registration is handled through the event's registration page. Confirm pricing and distances there, and sign up.
Gene Bednarowski Memorial and Cherry Run
Jul 4, 2026