By Heather Lusk
A 5K run and 1-mile walk to raise money for the American Cancer Society will coincide with the last day of Zionsville Community Schools May 26.
The Schools Out 5K replaces the larger Relay for Life event held in Lion’s Park the last several years.
“It just got harder and harder with sports and vacations,” said Kristen Kelley, a member of the leadership team for Zionsville Relay for Life.
Organizers decided to combine efforts with an existing team event led by Jennifer Lowe raising funds for Relay for Life.
“She always had a really good turnout,” Kelley said. “(They will) make this 5K into the all-encompassing relay American Cancer Society fundraiser for the year.”
Kevin Lee Smith, one of the organizers, said attendance at the Lion’s Park event impacted the decision and said the plan is to “to make it into one great event instead of one good event,” adapting the informal team event into a formal organized run/walk.
The 5K course will follow the Zionsville Rail Trail and go through the Cobblestone Lakes subdivision, while the 1-mile walk will loop around Mulberry Fields Park. The goal is 300 participants raising $4,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Kelley became involved in the event four years ago when she lost her sister-in-law to ovarian cancer. She became guardian to her niece, and the family participates in her memory.
“It’s been therapeutic to our family and her just to continue fighting for a cure and help those that are currently battling,” Kelley said.
Luminaries will line the walkways of Mulberry Park in honor or in memory of someone affected by cancer.
“It’s always one of the best things about the relay,” Kelley said. “Hopefully, we can decorate the whole pathway.”
Schools Out 5K
When: 5K begins at 7 p.m., 1-mile walk at 7:10 p.m. May 26
Where: Mulberry Fields, 9645 Whitestown Road, Zionsville
Cost: $30
More info: Registration ends May 19. Learn more or donate to the cause at schoolsout5k.com.
