Dick Bessel Independence Day Run

50th Annual Dick Bessel Independence Day Run

Date: July 4th, 2026

Location: Grand Island Town Hall
2255 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072

Start Time: 9:00 AM (Kids) 9:10 AM (2.3 mile run)

*** No rollerblades, bikes, animals, or strollers***

Course Cut Off Time:  9:55AM

** To ensure that the parade starts on time, we ask that all participants are off the course by 9:55 AM.
Any one left on course will be asked to move to the sidewalk. 

Kids Race - 314 meters

Ages 4-10 only.  No entry under 4 years of age will be accepted.  

9:00 AM start at official starting line in front of Tops Market.   Entry form is required.

Race Day Packet Pickup and Registration
Where:  Grand Island Town Hall
When:  July 4th starting @ 7:00am - 8:45am

Race Day Price
$30:  Adult Run (ages 10-100)
$7:   Kids Race (ages 4-10)

Kids Race- no entry under 4 years of age will be accepted.

This race uses electronic timing. On race morning, runners will receive a bib with a timing chip on the back.
Race bibs must be worn on the front and must be visible at all times.

USA Track and Field Certified Course NY23014JJ  <--  click number for course map

Run 2.3 Miles
Awards
Trophy for overall male / female winner
Custom awards each year for top 3 in each age group
10-12, 13-15, 16-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85 and over

Awards will be at the finish line area at 10:00 a.m. (Look for the Recreation Dept. van)

All Kids receive a medal when they cross the finish line

Parking is available in the Grand Island Plaza parking lot on Grand Island Blvd.

The parade will follow the races.
If you park on the parade route you may not be able to leave until the parade is finished.