46th Annual Kenosha YMCA Firecracker Run/Walk Shatters Participation Record

Kenosha, WI – The 46th Annual Kenosha YMCA Firecracker Run/Walk saw an unprecedented turnout with 565 participants, nearly 200 more than last year’s event. Held under perfect sunny and cool weather, the event featured both a 5K race and a 1-mile fun run/walk.

Notably this year, 23% of the participants were under the age of 18, emphasizing the family-friendly nature of the event. The oldest runner was 90, while the youngest was just 4 years old, showcasing a wide range of ages and abilities.

“This is my 8th year as the Race Director for this event, but this race was extra special because my 11-year-old daughter, Nina Fick, sang the National Anthem for her first time publicly,” shared Tenille Thornton, Kenosha YMCA Senior Director. “We also had the most registrations since I began as the Race Director, which was very exciting! I loved how many families and youth we had this year, and the weather was perfect. I truly couldn’t have asked for more!”

The race saw impressive performances with 31-year-old Brooke Wildermuth of Cincinnati, Ohio, finishing as the first-place female with a time of 17:17, securing second place overall. 27-year-old Ryan Kulwicki of Kenosha, led the pack with a final time of 16:52, taking first place overall. Complete race results can be found at Race Results.

The Kenosha YMCA Firecracker Run/Walk, presented by Uline and sponsored by Snap-on, Finish and Plating Service, Chiro One, Festival Foods, and Visit Kenosha, is more than just a race. It is a historic event that brings the community together in a fun and healthy way, to raise funds supporting life-changing programs offered free of charge to the community. These programs include the Miracle League, Young & Teen Achievers, Safety Around Water, Livestrong at the YMCA, and the John & Judy Wavro Scholarship Fund.

The YMCA provides essential programs such as childcare, youth sports, water safety, senior fitness, before and after school care, and day camps. Thanks to the John & Judy Wavro Scholarship Program, individuals and families from all backgrounds can enjoy the YMCA’s youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility initiatives. At the Y, we believe in creating opportunities for all.

For more information about the Kenosha YMCA and its programs, please visit Kenosha YMCA.