The Technician

Issue date: 8/20/08 Section: News

Thousands flock to Flint for one of the premier 10-mile races in the world. (photo courtesy of The Crim)

Once upon a time, Flint was the darling daughter of a booming automotive market. Nowadays, most people only look at the city's negative side.

For good or bad, through thick and thin, for 32 years, the Crim Road Race's 10 mile route has wound its way around the heart of Flint. The blue line forms both a badge and a bandage. In 10 short miles, the route goes from rich to poor, educated to drop-out, crosses racial barriers, and shows the pride and shame of a city besieged with violence.

The Crim Festival of Races gives Flint something to be proud of. It gives joy and hope. The Festival of Races raises money for charities, inspires health and fitness, and encourages people to live better lives. It is the true face of Flint.

Unfortunately, Flint is seen as a violent city. Ranked among the most dangerous and deadly of all the cities in the country, there is a problem. The desperation and poverty make a fertile ground for breeding violence. Crime is not going to vanish but it is time to stop making it the face of Flint.

The Crim represents the can-do attitude, inspiration, determination, perseverance, and dedication. These are values that Flint was built on; these are the values that will get Flint through this moment of darkness. Just like the runners climb over the dreaded Bradley Hills (three very demanding hills at the half-way point on the route), this city will climb over the obstacles crime created.

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