Springfield Salvation Army holding 5K at Clark County Fair

The Salvation Army of Springfield will hold its 3rd annual 5K race at the Clark County Fair next week.

The organization will host the race next Wednesday, July 24 from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. The event will weave through the fairgrounds, giving runners the chance to enjoy all of the sights, sounds and smells of the fair.

“Not only are you going to get a fun 5K experience by being out in the fair and hearing all the fair rides and smelling corn dogs, but you also know you are supporting a tremendous cause,” said Ryan Ray, development director of the Salvation Army of Springfield.

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Registration for this year’s race is down this year. Nearly 200 people attended the race in its inaugural year in 2017, and a little fewer than that signed up last year, Ray said.

“Right now we are at about half the registration we were this time last year,” Ray said. “We aren’t sure why that is, but we are hoping people share this and help us to spread the word.”

Proceeds from the race will all go towards the Salvation Army’s programs aimed at helping at-risk children and teens in the community, Ray said.

“You can run or walk it and it’s not something ultra-competitive,” said Ryan Ray, development director of the Salvation Army of Springfield. “One way or another, we just appreciate your participation.”

Because the race is not strictly for advanced runners, parents are encourage to have their children participate in the race as Wednesday is also Kids Day at the Clark County Fair.

During Kids Day, children ages 14 and under can get in free to the fair, ride wrist bands will be cheaper and free games will be held on the field at the grandstand section of the fair.

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Registration for the Salvation Army 5K at the Fair is $30 per person, including a $2.50 sign up fee. Those interested can register at RaceSignUp- where registration will stay open until the day of the race.

Same-day sign-ups will also be available for those who decide they would like to participate at the last minute.

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