GRAND RAPIDS, Mich -- Organizers of the annual Fifth Third River Bank run rolled out some new changes and additions during a press conference on Thursday afternoon.
For the event's 39th year, they're expecting about 60,000 people to head to downtown Grand Rapids for the race.
Organizers say the gear check rules have changed. Each athlete is required to use a clear gear check bag provided by the race to store their items while they're running. This is being done as a safety precaution to make sure no weapons, explosives or anything of that nature makes it's way near the race site.
They also announced some new additions like a phone app called 'RaceJoy.' If a runner chooses to use it, their friends and family can track their status and location throughout the duration of the race. It even has specific buttons that would allow bystanders to interact with runners.
Organizers also announced that they plan to document the race more this year. They plan on taking extensive video footage and pictures that will be uploaded to their website. Those images can then be accessed by the runners.
Because the race is so large, organizers say they need all the help they can get. They're currently still looking for volunteers. For more information on how to get involved or about the race in general you can visit their website here.
