5K & One Mile Fun Run
Sweaty Yeti Story
This is the poster from our inaugural event in 2015. They say a picture can say a 1000 words and it's true for this one. This design was initially designed for the event being planned in Christie's memory. The footprints of the Yeti were the imprints that she left on so many people's lives. It is a very fun and bright design, just like she was also so fun and cheerful. The words all are great ones to describe her and the way she lived her life. Upon Kellie's passing, it was slightly adjusted since the event was now for both of them. The big blue eyes and smile on the sunshine were added to represent Kellie, and we made sure the words described both of them.
Some of the elements from this design will always be represented in our yearly designs. And we are always reminded of the Spirit of the Yeti by the rays of sunshine that shine down and the smiles on everyone's face on Yeti Day!
The Sweaty Yeti Run is a family friendly event in memory of two amazing women, sisters, who both lost their battles with cancer in 2014. Christie Galvin and Kellie Barber were both positive, inspiring and hard working. This event was initially planned by Kellie in memory of her sister, Christie. The Sweaty Yeti Crew has worked hard to carry out Kellie's vision for a premier event which now honors her memory as well. We have had such tremendous support from the entire community, it is truly a labor of love.
Kellie wanted our mascot to be a bigfoot or Yeti as she, Christie and her kids always were looking for the elusive creature. They all enjoyed watching those shows on TV so it only seemed fitting. Since we decided our event be held on the Second Saturday of July, a Sweaty Yeti only made sense. Our Yeti is now well known across Northern Michigan and beyond!
Kellie's vision for this event was a competitive running event with top finisher awards, but also participant medals for those who complete the 5K. Everyone that participates in our event is making a step towards better health! We also have a One Mile Fun Run. This event has evolved over the past three years into something fantastic! It is one mile through the woods around our stadium, with optional fun fitness challenges along the way! Participants of all ages enjoy this event! We strive for our Sweaty Yeti Run to be a top-notch running event, but we also want our participants to have fun with their friends and families and make great memories. Our participants are encouraged to Run, Walk or even Dance their way to the finish line!
Because Christie and Kellie have friends and family members all over the country, and world, we also offer a Virtual 5K if you are unable to make it to East Jordan. This is also an option for those who have schedule conflicts, or just want to participate and be a part of the Yeti from afar. You can register online and we will send you a race shirt and medal before Race Day. We have the option of joining other Yeti participants on a running app, or you can just run/walk whenever/where ever you are!
The proceeds of our event benefit the Barber-Galvin Memorial Scholarship Fund, a 501c3. This scholarship has been awarded every year beginning in 2015 to an East Jordan High School Senior. Both Christie and Kellie graduated from EJHS and went to Central Michigan University. Being able to award this scholarship in their memory is something their family looks forward to each year. It is a fitting way to honor their memory.
Friends, family and community volunteers have so much fun planning this event each year! And we truly hope that everyone that attends has a great time! For our past participants, we look forward to seeing you at Sweaty Yeti Run this year! If you haven't already participated in the Sweaty Yeti Run, we hope to see you there!