Meet Pat Ball, the new director at the Crim Festival of Races.
/ Rob Herman
Pat Ball has crossed the finish line dozens of times, and each time has its own thrill - even her first time.
"I was the person that was in front of the police car trailing the last runner and it's an extraordinary experience when you cross that finish line,” Ball reminisces about her first race, in 1981.
That thrill kept Ball coming back for more, for more than 30 years. She became a race volunteer for the Detroit Free Press Marathon, then became director there.
Now she's bringing her passion to Mid-Michigan, as the newly-appointed director at the Crim Festival of Races, one of the region’s largest events.
"Flint needs to be put on the map. They already are, but in a big way,” Ball said, adding, the Crim is the perfect vehicle.
Already the 5th largest 10-miler in the country, the Crim offers races for people of all ages and levels. As director, Ball wants the Crim to make an even bigger impact in Genesee County - and show people they can discover their inner strength- overcome struggle - set new goals - just by lacing up and hitting the pavement.
"I found my passion through running."
And watch out, because Ball says her passion is contagious.
