In Pictures: Crim Festival of Races turned up the heat with new ‘CrossFlint’ 5K challenge

FLINT, Michigan — For the first time ever, the Crim Festival of Races incorporated a new and unique hybrid race in partnership with a homegrown gym, Sal’s Gym.

Runners, who were looking to add a challenge to the established Crim 5K were able to sign up for the ‘CrossFlint’ 5K. For Sal’s Gym owners, Jake and Ashleigh Saldaña, the event meant an exciting opportunity to bring something new to the Crim tradition.

“Since we opened our doors in Flint four years ago, we have been committed to making the city we live in healthier and more vibrant,” said Ashleigh Saldaña. “We’re honored to have been a small part of one of the best weekends in Flint and for the opportunity to bring more people together through fitness.” 

On Saturday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m, runners started their course on the bricks at the original 5K start and then continued on the traditional route down University Avenue.

However, instead of taking a turn back downtown on Stevenson Street, runners stopped at Sal’s Gym to compete in a bodyweight challenge or weighted challenge. 

Once runners arrived at Sal’s, the weighted competitors had two minutes to accumulate as many reps as possible at four different movement stations. The movements included push-ups, squats, down-ups, and sit-ups. 

For the weighted challenge, runners began at the starting line wearing a weighted vest and also made their way to Sal’s. At the gym, the movements for the two-minute cycles included pull-ups, keg thrusters, burpees over the keg, and a keg carry. 

Tyler Dipzinski was one of the athletes to participate in the new CrossFlint event during the 46th annual running festival. Not only did Dipzinksi compete in the race, he also won first place in the weighted challenge.

“I was exhausted between the run and the four events. It really had you digging in and finding a pace that fits you,” said Dipzinski. “It was great and I loved it. Definitely felt it was a huge addition to the Crim because I personally wouldn’t participate in the Crim itself, but now that this is an option, I am looking forward to future Crim events.” 

Watching the new challenge unfold inside and around the gym was exhilarating and uplifting. The event brought revitalization to the Crim and was able to draw in athletes interested in doing more than running for a competition. 

Jake Saldaña not only worked tirelessly for weeks planning and organizing the CrossFlint Challenge with his wife Ashleigh, but was also able to judge participants on their movements on the morning of the event. 

“I have to admit I was a little nervous making this all happen. Ashleigh and I worked our butts off,” said Jake. “After doing this Crim CrossFlint 5K challenge, it really showed how great it is to bring people together and put on a really cool event. We’re looking forward to doing more of these in the future.”

Seeing downtown Flint filled with the excitement and energy from all the race participants was contagious. The future of the city continues to develop in unique and incredible ways through the brave and creative residents determined to make a difference.

“If you are looking for something different that will change and push you to different limits, this is a good change of pace. Don’t be afraid to try something different,” Dipzinski said. 

Scroll below to see more photos from the CrossFlint 5K Challenge:

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