The TriState Veterans Memorial Fund will host its annual 5K and 1-mile run on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Washington Lake Park.
Registrations begin at 7 a.m., the official run begins at 8 a.m. and the walk at 8:15 a.m. The race is split into men and women and different age groups: 10 to 14, 15 to 19, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and 70-plus.
“We have a blast with our runners,” said TriState Executive Director Frank Alexander. “Last year, a 14-year-old ran the whole thing, believe it or not. We have first-place prizes for each age group as well. The top runners also get a medal and gift cards.
“Last year, we had around 200 people show up. We’re hoping to have 300 to 350 next year.”
The national anthem will open the race and be performed by Washington Township High School student Meddie Tuckey. A free event shirt will go to participating runners. Water ice, water and pretzels will be available.
Individuals can register in advance for the run and at runsignup.com. A link to the registration page can be found on the TriState Veterans website. Proceeds will benefit veterans in need – including those who need a service dog – and will fund two scholarships for a male and a female student at the high school.
“It’s important to us,” Alexander explained. “We try to find dogs at shelters instead of shops. We work with Starr Dog Academy (in Pitman) and try to make sure they’re compatible with each other. The run serves all military service members in need and helps them get back on their feet.”
The run is one of many events TriState hosts to aid needy veterans, including Flags for Forgotten Veterans on the Saturday before Veterans Day; the Valentine’s Day dance party; and fundraisers at area restaurants like Adelphia Restaurant in Deptford.
“It’s a great event,” Alexander said of the run, “with a great turnout.”
Runners run past tents at Washington Lake Park’s amphitheater during last year’s veterans 5K hosted by the TriState Veterans Memorial Fund.
