“There was no spitting, no screaming and everyone was polite!” echoed Grand Masters Champion, Ellen Nitz, of race director, Kathleen Gina’s ‘explicit instructions’ at the start of the 11th annual Run Like Mike Rutka 5K, Sunday April 3 at Gallop Park in Ann Arbor.

“And we had perfect running conditions,” Nitz added, whose sentiments were seconded by overall 5K champion, Pete Morris.

“I like the cool weather,” Morris explained who further revealed that the day’s victory was his first.

“I’d never won a race before today! And I ran the Martian Half Marathon yesterday!”

Helen Fuller led the way for the women – with child.

“I was really surprised!” Fuller insisted. “I’m still learning how to run pregnant!”

With 4 ½ months to go until the due date of her first child, Fuller seemingly has the ‘running thing’ down pat.

So much to celebrate at this beautiful event whose very purpose is to celebrate the life of its namesake, Michael J. Rutka, who lost his life when hit by a passing motorist, while training to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

“Michael gave me my first pair of running shoes,” reflected Diane Cannaughton, race sponsor and godmother of Rutka’s daughters, Ella and Bella.

“I still have them,” Cannaughton added of the shoes. “Michael was such an inspiration to my running. He was and still is a blessing to us all.”

The various caricatures created each year for the event by Rutka’s good friend, Michael Ward, represent Rutka’s genius - being himself, unencumbered by social conjecture.

Those privileged to embrace Rutka’s acquaintanceship, maintain that he was a friend to everyone and made others feel important, never letting on any importance of his own.

Race director, Kathleen Gina, once again delivered a fun and welcoming family event providing something of importance for everyone.

Walkers chose between one of two scenic routes, 5K run awards were deep and plentiful, custom water bottles were on hand for every finisher and each child to complete the kid’s dash received a medal, as did finishers of the 50 yard Jason’s Walk for Cerebral Palsy.

Consistent with Rutka’s altruistic spirit, proceeds of the day’s events benefited United Cerebral Palsy of Metro Detroit.

One need not have known Michael J. Rutka to honor and celebrate his life. Each and every presence - runner, walker, volunteer, friend, family, to join the fun with a happy heart, taking home a custom designed t-shirt, water bottle, smiles and cheers, contributed in the effort to celebrate and honor the legacy of Rutka.

While some exciting changes may ensue for next year’s event, Gina is committed to hosting an organized run and family event every year in honor and memory of her good friend and running buddy, Michael J. Rutka.

For complete results and the 411 on next year’s event, please visit http://www.runlikemike.org/