Lifetime Fitness Moves New Year's Day Race to Farmington

Lifetime Fitness on Monday received city approval to move its 5K Commitment Day Run, held last year in Detroit, to downtown Farmington.

Company representative Jim Jackson told officials the New Year's Day run is done in 35 cities across the U.S. He said feedback from last year's event at Ford Field led organizers to look for a more suburban location, with places for runners to go to warm up.

"We thought Farmington would be a great fit because of the restaurants," he said, adding the route would start and finish near Riley Park.

About 1,300 runners registered last year, Jackson said. Plans include involving local students as race day volunteers and donating funds to school sports programs.

Asked whether Farmington would be a permanent location, Jackson said the race is looking for a home, but a lot will depend on participant feedback. 

"I think it's a fantastic event, and I'm thrilled that you're going to be in downtown Farmignton," council member Steve Schneemann said. "I hope this is something we'll be able to host for many, many years to come."

The Jan. 1 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. City manager Vince Pastue said that Lifetime Fitness has agreed to cover any additional costs incurred by public safety officers securing the route.