May the Course Be With You 5k offered on May 4
Runners are encouraged to have fun and dress to fit the Star Wars theme.
The Tuscarawas County Public Library System will host its eighth annual 5k on Saturday, May 4. Registration will open at 9 a.m. with the race beginning at 10 a.m. This Star Wars-themed May the Course Be With You 5k will have participants start at the Tuscarawas County Main Library, 121 Fair Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, and run through Tuscora Park and back to the library.
Registration is now open. Runners interested in participating can stop into one of the county library system’s five locations — New Philadelphia, Bolivar, Strasburg, Sugarcreek or Tuscarawas — to complete and turn in a registration form.
“We encourage runners to have fun and dress to fit the Star Wars theme,” public relations associate Marisa Bleininger said. “Our 5k has always been a fun race for all ages and abilities, so we are looking forward to this year’s theme and the extra activities we are planning to go along with it.”
In addition to the race, the Tuscarawas County Main Library will have a May the Fourth Celebration with activities for all ages. Participate in the race or cheer on runners before participating in crafts, Jedi training, cornhole, a galaxy maze, a photo booth and more. Children, teens and adults can participate in a costume contest at noon.
According to Bleininger, the race will be timed by Champ Racing. Those registered before March 15 will be guaranteed a T-shirt on race day. Registration fees are $30 for adults and $20 for kids in kindergarten through age 17. Awards will be given to the top three male, female and youth who participate. Runners also will receive goodie bags the day of the race.
According to Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell, proceeds from this year’s 5k will benefit the library system’s Summer Reading Program at all five locations. The county library provides a variety of programs for kids, teens and adults at all of its locations and through its mobile services department.
Bleininger said the 5k committee is still seeking T-shirt sponsors throughout February. Sponsors will get their company name put on race-day signage and the back of race T-shirts and may place promotional materials in the goodie bags.
Call 330-364-4474 ext. 221.