ERIE, Pa. — When you think of a 5K run, you might picture intense competition or a sea of focused athletes. There’s some of that at Penn State Behrend’s annual Run for Women 5K run/walk – at least for the runners at the front.
But the event, which is hosted by the Women’s Engagement Council at Behrend, is not just a race. It’s a celebration, with a DJ, ice cream and a photo booth. It’s an effort to build community among women at all fitness levels — runners, walkers and anyone who is ready to embrace a healthy, active start to the day.
“It’s a joyful event for people of all ages and abilities,” said Heather Cass, the race director and a WEC board member. “There is a lot of camaraderie and support, whether you’re running your first 5K or are simply enjoying a 3.1-mile walk with friends or family.”
This year’s event will be held Sunday, Aug. 24, at 8 a.m. Details and a registration link are available at the Behrend WEC webpage.
The 3.1-mile run/walk starts and finishes in front of Behrend’s Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Center (AMIC), on Technology Drive. The course is relatively flat. Participants will proceed down Technology Drive and do a full loop and a quarter of Knowledge Parkway before returning to AMIC.
Registration is just $25 with a T-shirt, or $20 with no shirt. Students in grades K-12 can run for just $15 with a shirt, or $10 with no shirt. Note: Shirts will only be available in adult sizes.
Awards will be given to the top female finishers and the top three runners in each 5-year age group. There also will be awards for the top three male finishers.
Need more incentive? The post-race party will again feature Berkey Creamery Ice Cream.
Although the event celebrates and caters to women, it is open to all, regardless of sex, gender, age or ability. To learn more, visit the Behrend WEC webpage.