MRC Industries Kicks Off A Community Spirited 5K Run

UPDATE: Because of the weather, the Kalamazoo Klassic Launch has been moved to the same time and location, but on Tuesday, April 7th.

MRC Industries in Kalamazoo announces its Kalamazoo Klassic 5K, and the launch is taking place in Downtown Kalamazoo on Tuesday, March 31st.

The event will be taking place outside of Gazelle Sports, as their team prepares for another great 5K experience, which will be taking place on June 20th.

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What Is MRC Industries?

You've no doubt heard of Thriftability, the new thrift store on Gull Road in Kalamazoo. MRC owns that store, and the profits go to benefit programs and services run by MRC, and employ those with disabilities to help build their confidence and prepare them for employment outside of MRC.

MRC's philosophy is that every person is unique, valuable, and entitled to be treated with respect and dignity. Person-centered programs and services focus on individual needs, desires, strengths, and abilities-supporting people to become independent at home, at work, and in the community.

On their event page, they hype just what to expect for the launch of the Kalamazoo Klassic:

We’re gearing up for the 2026 Kalamazoo Klassic, and we’d love for you to join us as we begin the season! Mark your calendar for March 31 at 5:00 PM and meet us at Gazelle Sports in downtown Kalamazoo. This fun, community-focused event is the perfect way to get excited for race day coming up on June 20.

Here’s what you can look forward to:
-Urban Herd group run starting at 5:30 PM
-Freebies and giveaways
-Drinks and great company with fellow runners.

This will be my first time running a 5K, and I'll be training the next 3 months to prepare my body for this new adventure.