Location: Okemos, Michigan

Celebrating its 3rd year, the Hippity Hop is the largest fundraiser for the Child Benefit Fund. It offers 2 main events; the 5k Run/Walk and the Egg Race.

The Egg Race was for kids 12 and under. Set up more like a traditional Easter Egg Hunt, it had over 1,000 candy and toy-filled eggs for kids to find. Despite the snowy/rainy weather, the kids showed up and were ready to go! It was fun to watch them and the Easter Bunny cheering them on.

The 5k Run/Walk was what my mom and I were waiting for. It was chip-timed by the Michigan Running Foundation and everyone received a finishers’ medal and brightly colored t-shirt. Awards were given to the top 3 finishes in each age group.

Mom took 2nd for her age group and received a large, plastic egg with a bunch of goodies.

The race took place at the Meridian Historical Village. The route, familiar to me from a previous 5k I ran in February, was “flat and fast.” It took us through the Nancy Moore Park, along the Nemoke Trail, and on the sidewalk along Marsh road. We enjoyed the first portion of the trail through the park but didn’t really like the portion through Nemoke trail or along Marsh road. There were areas that were not marked.

Awaiting our arrival back at the finish line was the Easter Bunny and the volunteers (thank you!!!) handing out some very cool finisher medals.

Overall this “street” race had a lot of appeal. It was small, simple, and for a great cause. I wouldn’t mind doing it again next year.