Memorial Day race for fallen Perrysburg police officer canceled

A long-time Memorial Day race in honor of a fallen Perrysburg police officer has been canceled this year.

Organizers of the Kip Boulis Memorial Day 5K run said costs to put on the race, coupled with increased competition and a lack of sponsorship, forced the board to put the run on hold.

“So many things came into play at once, it kind of caught us off guard,” said J.D. Justus, a former Perryburg police sergeant and member of the Kip Boulis foundation. “When all those things happen together, you need time to figure out a new plan.”

For more than 35 years, hundreds of people turned out every year to run the streets of downtown Perrysburg for the annual race. The run honors Kip Boulis, a Perrysburg police officer who drowned May 30, 1976, while trying to rescue passengers of a boat that capsized in the Maumee River. Proceeds from the race benefit the Kip Boulis Memorial Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to students pursuing careers in criminal justice.

Frank Brahier, president and founding member of the foundation, said the event costs about $2,500 a year, depending on the number of runners. This year, sponsorships declined and cost increased by more than $1,000, including about $720 for police security.

With the race planned on city streets, police are needed to protect runners and pedestrians, Bridgette Kabat, city administrator, said. The race would require officers to work on overtime, and that cost is passed on to the event, as with all events not sponsored by the city, Ms. Kabat said. The only events sponsored by the city are 4th of July fireworks and the Memorial Day parade. 

“It’s the economics of it. It’s not the city’s fault,” Mr. Justus said. “The city can’t pay for every event, and we understand that. It’s not the time keepers fault or the sponsors. We made an educated choice, so we can come back stronger and better.” 

James Mason, owner of Dave’s Running Shop in Perrysburg and longtime supporter and sponsor of the race, said he’s disappointed it was canceled. 

“I’ve always went down and helped with the timing and set up. It’s a really good cause,” Mr. Mason said. “I’m going to make a donation this year, and we’re going to sit down and figure things out so we can bring this back for next year.”

Contact RoNeisha Mullen at: rmullen@theblade.com, or 419-343-3299.