18,000 expected in 5/3 River Bank Run

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Sooner than you think, there will be 18,000 people running through the streets of Grand Rapids.

The 2010 Fifth Third River Bank Run is slated for Saturday, May 8. Thursday, race officials talked about some of the events planned for this year's race.

For the 16th straight year, Grand Rapids was selected as the USA 25km Open Championship and the third year as the Masters Championship. A larger purse will draw more world-class athletes to the race, and the age-graded Masters prize purse will allow for more winners.

The Charity Partners program is expanded, and athlete incentives will be offered through Mary Free Bed Rehabiliation Hospital.

Also, the 2010 Road Warriors were introduced. This group has their work cut out for them, as they are helping train 24 Hour News 8 Sports Director Jack Doles to run in the 25k for the first time .

Race director Kristin Aidif and Elite Athlete Greg Meyer spoke at the event. Watch each video to hear their remarks.