This annual event originated during our community's Bicentennial observance. The Frankenmuth Jaycees were asked to organize and sponsor an event for July 4, 1976 in recognition of our country's 200th birthday. Being that there were several Jaycees enjoying the sport of road racing, they determined it an ideal time to host a race in Frankenmuth. The three coordinators were Janette and Bill Hart, and Bob Warnick.

Twenty plus years ago, events were handled in a simpler form! Flyers were printed and mailed to schools and sporting good stores, with posters put up around town. Seven miles was the distance of our first event ever, with a total of 180 excited runners. Our overall winners were Alexa Kraft (Grosse Point) and Ed Griffiths (Kalamazoo).

The 1976/1977 Jaycees President Morrall Claramunt said, "We must have a vision with the coordinators". He became the first Jaycee to enter the event in a dramatic presentation to the membership. The three originators chaired the event in 1977 and 1978 with improvements every year being the number one priority. Improvements included a new distance (15 miles), aid stations every mile, advertising at other races, and the "race shirt" given to all runners.

By 1978 the event staff had attended major races in Virginia, Florida and Ohio for ideas to use in Frankenmuth. As a result, the race was given the name Volksläufe (People's Race) to reflect our community's heritage and give it more identity. The events were changed from 7 and 15 miles to 10 and 20 kilometers keeping with the European feel. The Frankentrost Band was brought in and remains popular today. Computer results and German-style awards were adopted. With the changes also came growth. In 1977 we had 640 runners; in 1978 there were 1,760 participants. Today the race averages 2,500 runners.

The stories and memories of past Volksläufe’s can go on and on as do the benefits to the community. The Volksläufe supports area youth programs with donations and also provides a scholarship for track and cross country students. The race brings many visitors to our community. Most of all, the Volksläufe has motivated many to take up the wonderful sport of running and walking. If it has extended just one person's life, we can have joy with that thought.