By Renee Larr
On May 16 the St.Vincent Geist 5K, 10K and half marathon will take place. Runners will start at 7 a.m. at Olio Rd. and 116th St. (11501 Geist Pavillion Dr.).
“It makes it fun for everyone to get out there no matter what your fitness level and to not be intimidated but just to be encouraged and be your best,” Susan Van Hoosen of Inspired by Fitness.
The race raises funds to benefit physical fitness programs in Hamilton Southeastern and Lawrence Township School Districts.
The courses will be open for four hours. Participants must maintain a pace of no less than 16 minutes per mile in order to be designated as an official finisher. Each runner will be outfitted with a QR code on their participant bib. When scanned with a smartphone the code will re-direct to the individual’s personalized results page. Awards are based on age groups.
St.Vincent provides aid stations along each route serving water and Gatorade to participants. Runners will enjoy entertainment through the courses. Upon completion participants will be able to re-fuel with bananas, granola bars and chocolate milk. Each runner will receive a free t-shirt and will be invited to a post-race party. Sun King Brewery will provide complimentary beer to all racers over 21.
Geist Orthodontics Kids Zone will be a new feature this year. With over 1,700 kids in the school system race organizers wanted to add something for the children in attendance. There will be balloon artists, face painting, craft tables, interactive games, contests and even a race for kids ages 2 to 10.
Volunteers are still needed for the event to help cheer on the runners, set up the start and finish line, goody bag stuffing and water stops. For more information on the race or volunteering, visit geisthalf.com.
