Paczki Run makes a welcome return

By Charles Sercombe
Fun is returning to Hamtramck after two years of Covid worry.
The pandemic shut down a number of events during that time, including the annual Paczki Run hosted by Tour De Troit.
On Saturday, about 2,000 runners turned out for a triumphant return of the 5k run that winds through Hamtramck neighborhoods. The day was sunny but chilly with temps in the 20s.
The cold weather didn’t dampen spirits though. Heck, there was free paczki to be had at the finish, along with free beer (for those 21 years and older, of course), and live music in a huge heated tent.
The only thing hanging over the spirit of the day was the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Before the run kicked off at 10 a.m., a moment of silence was held in observation of events unfolding in Ukraine.
It was a poignant moment.
The fun didn’t end with the run. A number of runners and their friends and families made a day of it in Hamtramck – jamming into the city’s bars and restaurants.
Next up is the actual Paczki Day this Tuesday. Once again, partygoers will be celebrating Fat Tuesday Hamtramck style – plenty of paczki, music and libations.
Posted Feb. 27, 2022