Summerfest discontinues Rock ‘n Sole Run in favor of other charity efforts

Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., and the Summerfest Foundation, Inc., announced that the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run, presented by BMO Harris Bank, will not return for 2018.

The race began in 2011 and drew thousands of runners along the lakefront, ending at Henry Maier Festival Park. The Rock ‘n Sole Run featured a half marathon, quarter marathon, and 5k routes, in addition to a Kids Run To Read, for children ages 3-10, in partnership with SHARP Literacy, Inc.

“We took a closer look at our events and charitable involvement and made the decision to discontinue the Summerfest Rock ‘n Sole Run to refocus our efforts. We felt it was time for new creative ideas and look forward to reviewing a variety of community initiatives, including music education outreach events. I would like to personally thank all the runners and partners who supported the run over the years.” stated Don Smiley, President and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. and President of the Summerfest Foundation.

Over the past seven years, more than 52,000 runners participated in the Rock ‘n Sole Run and proceeds benefitted various charities including: Ronald McDonald House Charities, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, One Fund Boston, Inc., and the Summerfest Foundation.

Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. and the Summerfest Foundation partnered with the Milwaukee Public Schools Year of the Arts program, and will be hosting the All City Arts Festival from May 8 to 10, 2018 at Henry Maier Festival Park. Year of the Arts is a collaborative campaign to raise awareness and build support for arts education assets and resources in Milwaukee Public Schools.