There are a few things that let you know that it’s the summer in the Quad Cities. Record breaking hot weather, long lines at Whitey’s Ice Cream and the Bix 7. And this year, The Quad City Times Bix 7 will celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Making its debut in 1975, there were only 84 participants, which at that time was the most ever gathered for a race and it was also the first time runners were allowed to run on streets. Now, The Bix draws in almost 20,000 runners and it is one of the largest races in the country.
With the recent flooding in Davenport, many of the areas events were altered due to the water and damage but luckily the Bix was not one of them. “Things are going smoothly,” said Operations Director, Ellen Hermiston. “Thankfully we were not affected by the flood.”
In honor of the 40th anniversary, any active member of the military can enter for free, the shirt has changed to a new dri-weave version and all participants will receive a 40th anniversary medallion.
With the race only a few days away, the set-up has already begun and Hermiston expresses that along with all the participants, it’s also the sponsors, committee members, volunteers and spectators that help make this weekend such a success.
“Our event is one that truly encompasses the entire Quad Cities,” said Hermiston. “You don’t have to be an elite runner to enjoy the Bix 7.”
Visit www.bix7.com to register. You can also register at packet pick up on Thursday July 24th from 5pm-9pm and Friday, July 25th from 9am-9pm at the Quad City Times Sports & Fitness Expo at the Rivercenter in Davenport, IA.