History of the Festival of Races
The Cherry Festival Races was established in 1975 by Traverse City resident George Kuhn as a 10K, and in 1978 became a 15K. Kuhn was a runner himself, but was also known for his superb organizational skills. In the early days of race management, George’s wife Betty pedaled her one speed Schwinn cruiser from the start to the finish, and she and friends penciled in results came across the line and took over the details. George has not missed the event since 1978, and proudly wears his original race T-shirt as he annually completes the race.
Over the years, many renowned American distance runners -- Olympians Herb Lindsay, Margaret Groos, Daniel Heikenen, and Boston Marathon winner Greg Meyer – have won the race, bringing both national exposure and credibility to the event.
