Healthy Suffolk plans 5K
Published 10:42 pm Friday, September 15, 2017
The 10th annual Peanut Fest 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Walk is only two weeks away, but there’s still plenty of time to register and prepare to get moving.
“We want to push out the message to get people moving,” said Mia Byrd, development manager for Healthy Suffolk, which puts on the race each year. “I think it’s a great way to jump-start your fitness if you don’t run or race at all. It’s a great way to either jog the mile, walk the mile or walk the 5K.”
The event started as a way for the organization to promote how easy it is to walk or run for exercise. It still serves that purpose, Byrd said.
“It’s a good starter race for people who just want to get fit,” she said. “If you’re interested in racing, I think this is a good one to start with.”
The event also serves as a fundraiser for the organization.
“We are growing as an organization,” Byrd said.
For the first time this year, all participants will receive a finisher medal, Byrd said.
The event will take place on Sept. 30. Both distances will start and end at Constant’s Wharf Park, 110 E. Constance Road.
Check-in will take place at 6:30 a.m., with warm-up at 7 a.m. and the run and walk starting at 7:30 a.m. Drawings for prizes, including a Fitbit and other door prizes, will take place at 9:15 a.m.
An event clock will be provided so participants can check their time, but individual timing will not be provided.
Registration costs $20 prior to Sept. 21, including a T-shirt. Registration will be $25 thereafter, including on the morning of the event. Children 12 and under are free. Their registration does not include a T-shirt, but they will be available for purchase for $10.
Online registration is available until Sept. 21 at healthysuffolkva.org/5k. Participants may register at the event using cash, credit card or check made payable to Healthy Suffolk.
The event is rain or shine, unless weather is extreme. Registrants will be notified by email and on the website the evening prior if severe weather is expected to cancel the event.
Byrd said it will be a great day to come downtown, since the Peanut Fest Parade will begin at 10 a.m. and the Boys and Girls Club will hold its barbecue and oyster roast on at the park later that evening.
“It’s a good day for it,” she said. “This is a great way to get yourself in the fitness mood before the holiday season comes for you.”