By Olivia May -
The Akron Promise City Race Series is thriving this summer, with race #3, the Race for Case on May 17, in the Wallhaven neighborhood. This race supports the greenhouse and other student programs at Case Community Learning Center. The overall male winner was Leo Ward. The overall female winner was Breezy Horrigan.
Next on the starting line is a race unlike any other, the Kenmore Cowbell 7K, a celebration of community, history, and the enduring sound of support. You might ask, “Why the cowbell?” But to the people of Kenmore, the answer is simple: “Why not the cowbell?”
The Cowbell holds a special place in the past and present Kenmore residents, as it reminds them of the beloved Grandma Benn. Grandma Benn was a pillar of support in the community from the mid-60s to the early 2000s. A loyal fan, a loving neighbor, and the community’s number one supporter, there was not a game that Grandma Benn did not have the cowbell with her. All the Kenmore players knew by the sound of the bell that Grandma Benn was in the crowd.
When race director Nick Korora set out to design a race that would reflect the spirit of Kenmore, he knew there was no better symbol than Grandma Benn’s cowbell. In true Kenmore fashion, this race is about more than running. Spectators are not only invited but encouraged to be at this race with their cowbells. To support this goal, the race is offering a spectator package for purchase, which includes a race shirt with the image of Grandma Benn and their very own cowbell. And the cowbell doesn’t stop there. All finishers will receive cowbell-shaped medals, a keepsake that rings with meaning, literally and symbolically.
While the race is rooted in the heart of Kenmore, it welcomes runners and supporters from all communities. Giving locals the opportunity to experience the unique community of support Kenmore embodies. Proceeds from this race go to the Akron Promise Scholarship Fund, and directly benefits students at Garfield Community Learning Center.
The race will start at the Rialto Theater, proceed on Kenmore BLVD and follow the towpath that wraps around Summit Lake. Following the race, the Kenmore Parade and the BLVD block party will be happening between the Kenmore Community Center and the end of 18th street, creating a perfect way to wrap up the race. Before, during, and after the race, Twin B Project will be playing live music.
The goal is for the community to remember the history of Kenmore while also staying engaged with what is happening now. It’s a chance to experience the warmth, history, and unity of this vibrant neighborhood. Kids are encouraged to partake in this race to experience this community and feel supported, whether they are a runner or a spectator.
All Akron Public School students get the opportunity to participate in the race for free. Students can sign up using this link: https://bit.ly/APSCitySeries.
All other runners and spectators are encouraged to sign up ahead of time using this link: https://runsignup.com/kenmorecowbell7k
The Kenmore Cowbell 7K isn’t just a race. It’s a tribute. It’s a memory. It’s community. Join us, June 7th at 8am. Ring your bell, run, walk, have fun.