GREEN BAY – The weekend of the Bellin Run has finally arrived and participants are looking forward to hitting the streets of Green Bay to see how the hard work and dedication they have put into their training will finally come to fruition.

Though much of the focus of the weekend will be on the main race on Saturday, June 13, the Bellin Run has a platform that allows them to provide access to several different events over the weekend.

Beyond registration, Friday includes a health and fitness expo, the Children’s Run, Elite Athlete Autographs and one particularly special event — the myTEAM TRIUMPH Mile.

An inclusive experience

The myTEAM TRIUMPH event allows those with physical disabilities to participate in a one-mile walk or run with the assistance of an able-bodied mentor.

“The Bellin Run has been a cornerstone event for myTEAM TRIUMPH since the very beginning of our journey. It’s one of our most cherished races because of the atmosphere and overall support given to our athletes,” said MaKayla Neinas, marketing and communications coordinator for myTEAM TRIUMPH.

“Our Captains — athletes with disabilities — love hearing their names shouted by cheering spectators and seeing Packers players out on the course. They’re recognized and celebrated as athletes in their own right. The Bellin Run is more than a race — it’s a platform that lifts up our mission of inclusion and acceptance.”

The myTEAM TRIUMPH event works to create an opportunity for individuals who would otherwise not be able to participate in race day and allows them to become an integral part of the action.

Another consequence of the TRIUMPH Mile is that it empowers those with disabilities to know that they can also see success and that their hard work and determination can pay off in ways they never thought possible.

“There are countless powerful stories I have witnessed, but one that stands out happened during our TRIUMPH Mile the Friday before the Bellin Run. A few years ago, one of our Captains made it her mission to complete the full mile unassisted. It took her hours, but she never gave up. The entire community rallied behind her, cheering every step of the way—it was the purest display of perseverance and determination,” said Neinas.

According to Neinas, the myTEAM TRIUMPH experience has helped countless people, both mentally and physically, to embrace their strengths and learn how to make the most of every opportunity.

“Another unforgettable story comes from Captain Jana, a beloved member of our mTT family. At one race, someone in the crowd remarked that she wasn’t using her legs to swim. Her husband, Tom, who we recently lost, proudly shouted back, ‘She’s only got one leg!’ Moments like that capture the heart of what we do—shattering assumptions and celebrating strength. Jana competed in races with her crutch and sometimes with a race chair, and she inspired everyone with her courage, humor and grit,” said Neinas.

More about myTT

Neinas said that the experience of participating in myTEAM TRIUMPH allows participants on any end of the athletic spectrum to become a part of something beautiful that breeds inclusivity and acceptance.

“myTEAM TRIUMPH is a nonprofit organization that builds inclusive communities through endurance athletics. We pair athletes with disabilities (Captains) with able-bodied volunteers (Angels) who help them experience the thrill of crossing the finish line at races of all kinds—5Ks, marathons, triathlons and more,” said Neinas.

Building a bond that lasts

Neinas said that the goal of myTT is far larger than just completing a single race — though that is a major accomplishment in and of itself.

“We don’t just stop at the finish line. We build bonds through weekly training runs and social hours across the state — in Green Bay, Sheboygan, Stevens Point, Lake Geneva and beyond. These gatherings are free and open to everyone, whether you’re walking, running or just showing up to be part of the family,” said Neinas.

The myTEAM TRIUMPH program is always seeking out volunteers who are interested in helping people accomplish their goals and find success on one of the biggest stages of the year, like the Bellin Run.

“Getting involved is easy and rewarding. You can join a local training run, come to a community event, or apply to be an Angel or Captain through our website. Whether you want to run, push a chair, cheer on the sidelines, or help behind the scenes—there’s a place for everyone in our family,” said Neinas.

“And with Bellin Run being one of our largest events year after year, it’s the perfect introduction to what we’re all about. We’re so grateful for the Bellin Run’s ongoing support and for the way the Green Bay community welcomes us with open arms.”

The myTEAM TRIUMPH Mile will take place at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 12.