Mile News


Registration for the 2021 Virtual Grand Blue Mile now open

February 26, 2021

Complete Your Race - Your Pace - Your Place between April 17 and 25, 2021; an entry fee of just $10 includes bib and GBM event shirt

From Grand Blue Mile

Registration has opened for the 2021 Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark® Blue Cross® and Blue Shield®. Officials from Wellmark and the Drake Relays announced this year’s event will be held virtually from Saturday, April 17 to Sunday, April 25 to coincide with the 111th Drake Relays presented by Xtream powered by Mediacom®.

► Register today HERE.

“Just as we have each year over the past decade, we’re excited to celebrate another Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark — but in a modified, virtual format that ensures the safety and well-being of all participants,” said Chris Verlengia, Wellmark’s senior brand marketing manager and Grand Blue Mile co-race director. “This special event has always been about encouraging Iowans to get moving and embrace simple, healthy habits and Wellmark remains committed to that goal, now more than ever. In fact, we’re identifying opportunities to engage participants and communities far beyond the metro with an aim to reach as many Iowans as possible, and we’re looking forward to sharing more about those efforts soon.”

“From the beginning of our partnership, Wellmark and the Drake Relays presented by Xtream resolved to make this event accessible to all ages and abilities,” said Blake Boldon, Franklin P. Johnson Director of the Drake Relays. “We’ve held fast to that promise and this year, as the event goes virtual, we’re uniquely positioned to provide the Grand Blue Mile experience to an even larger audience. While the race is virtual, the running is real. Our mantra for 2021 is ‘Your Race. Your Pace. Your Place’ — that will prove especially true for our participants across the nation, including America’s best athletes, fitness enthusiasts, walkers and families alike.”

Registration for the 2021 Virtual Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark is now open at grandbluemile.com. For just $10 each, participants receive a 2021 Grand Blue Mile event shirt and race bib shipped directly to their door. As part of Wellmark’s commitment to improving the health of Iowans, all proceeds benefit Iowa Kidstrong youth fitness programs and support student participation in the annual Drake Relays.

Tags: wellmark (6) , grand blue mile (45) , drake relays (22) , chris verlengia (9) , blake boldon (13)

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