Summerfest officials announce course changes for "Rock 'n Sole" Run 5K

MILWAUKEE (WITI) – Summerfest Foundation, Inc. officials have announced exciting updates and course changes for the fifth annual Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run presented by BMO Harris Bank.

As part of the fifth anniversary, this year’s event will continue to feature the half marathon and quarter marathon courses, but as a new improvement, the 5K event will incorporate more music and fun than ever before along with a new name!

The Big Gig® 5K will not only happen along a new and improved route, participants will also have a chance to win great prizes when they dress up like their favorite performers.

Course modifications for The Big Gig® 5K include a new starting location and a scenic route with great views of Henry Maier Festival Park, downtown Milwaukee and Lake Michigan. Participants will begin and end the race at the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run Finish Line, located on Harbor Drive by the Summerfest South Gate.

Once started, they will travel south on Harbor Drive to the Milwaukee River turning west onto Erie Street, follow a small loop that will place them heading north on Harbor Drive to Michigan Street and eventually Lincoln Memorial Drive. Runners will head east at the Mason Street Bridge and then turn and continue south along the Oak Leaf Trail before running out onto Lakeshore State Park, behind the Marcus Amphitheater and finishing back where they started.

Participants who want to get into the spirit of The Big Gig® 5K have the ability to win Summerfest prizes when they dress up as their favorite performers! Anyone that registers for the Big Gig® 5K, comes in costume and checks in at the 5K Start Line Information Booth will be entered into a random drawing to win a pair of tickets to see one of this year’s headliners at the Marcus Amphitheater during Summerfest.

Participants may also have their photo taken at the booth to be considered for the People’s Choice portion of the competition which will be hosted on the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run Facebook page following the race. Winners from the online voting will receive Summerfest prize packages including tickets, parking and VIP Deck passes.

In addition, the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run has selected Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee as the official charity partner for the 2015 and 2016 events.

“We were absolutely thrilled when the Summerfest Foundation, Inc. extended our partnership for the 2015 and 2016 Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run presented by BMO Harris Bank. As someone who ran the 5K last year, I am excited to participate again, and especially in this year’s new The Big Gig® 5K. It is a terrific way to start a Milwaukee summer weekend. We are grateful to all who come out to enjoy the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run festivities to ensure that Milwaukee’s kids can have access to safe places with productive activities," Vincent Lyles, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee said.

As the official charity partner in 2014, Boys & Girls Clubs members provided volunteers and exciting entertainment along the course for participants to enjoy. The mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee is to inspire and empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run participants should be proud to know that their involvement with the race will help Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee provide an environment that helps participants reach for a brighter future.

“Summerfest Foundation, Inc. is excited to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee for a second year and look forward to raising awareness about the excellent work they do in the community through this year’s Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run," said Don Smiley, President and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc.

For information on this year’s 5th Anniversary celebration and to register CLICK HERE.