Sunrise Rotary St. Paddy's Day 5K to raise funds for mental health care March 12 in Naperville
Registration is now underway for the 13th annual Sunrise Rotary St. Paddy's Day 5K to be held in person on Saturday, March 12, in downtown Naperville.
Held in cooperation with the West Suburban Irish, the St. Paddy's Day 5K will begin at 8 a.m., before the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. The race is one of the first certified 5K's of the running season in the area, and often sells out.
"After two years of virtual races, we are grateful that we can plan to bring back the live race safely outdoors this year," said club president Ryan Siebert. "I think we've all learned how important traditions can be, and we're committed to making this event a safe and fun activity for racers and volunteers alike.
Proceeds from the event will benefit youth and family mental health care and support initiatives of Family Shelter Services, Project Help and NAMI DuPage.
St. Patrick's Day themed costumes and hats are encouraged.
Corporate sponsor opportunities, registration and volunteer openings can be found at the website www.StPaddysDay5k.com.
Costume awards encourage participants to enter into the festive spirit of the event by donning their St. Patrick's Day finery for the run.
Participants receive an annual St. Paddy's Day 5K technical running shirt along with their race packet.
Prizes will be awarded to the top overall male and female runners and commemorative prizes to the top three male and female runners per age division.
Post-run refreshments will be offered in an open-air tent.
Masks are encouraged when not eating or drinking. Race times will be posted online.
"As our biggest fundraiser each year, the St. Paddy's Day 5K is critical to our efforts to help youth and families, who have been especially challenged with mental health issues during the pandemic," Siebert said. "We hope to see everyone out enjoying the early spring weather and community spirit this event always delivers."
For more information, visit www.StPaddysDay5k.com.