About the 5K Run/Walk

Vandalia Freedom Run - This event takes place at Helke Park (888 Randler Ave., Vandalia, OH 45377).  All participants will be timed, and awards will be based on the top three finishers in each age category.  In addition, a special award will be given to the top male and top female overall finishers.   Please note:  You must be 16 or older to participate without an adult's written consent.

The Reason for the Run/Walk

The proceeds from this event will directly benefit the youth of the Vandalia City & Butler Township community.  For over 30 years the Vandalia-Butler Optimist Club has focused their time, money, energy and resources into the kids of our community and proudly embrace the slogan, "Friend of Youth." 

Pre-Registration & Entry Fees

Entry fee is $20 for pre-registration (runners and walkers) and includes a high-quality t-shirt and refreshments.  Pre-registration applications must be received by June 20, 2011 to ensure a t-shirt.  Same-Day registration ($15) will not include a t-shirt.  T-shirts will be available the day of the event for $10 (supplies will be limited), as will special Same-Day registration packages.

Refreshments

Complimentary snacks and lots of liquids will be provided at the end of the event for everyone who participated.  Refreshments will be served by the Vandalia-Butler High School Octagon Club.  You do not have to pre-register to be included...you just have to do your best!

Course, Timing & Results

Registration and check-in will begin at 7:30 a.m.  Runners and walkers will start at 8:30 a.m. The course will remain open for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

While this is a race for many, please remember to be as courteous as possible to all participants.  The event will take place in any weather.  Enjoy the run and enjoy the company of those you run and walk with!  And please...no rollerblades or skates.

Our professionally certified 5K (3.1 mile) course is very flat and should offer most avid runners a great opportunity to push for their best 5K time.  Electronic chip timing for all participants as well as mile splits will be provided during the event.  Results will be available via our website 72 hours post event.

Zumba® Warm-Up!

Instructors from The Studio Fitness™ in Vandalia will lead a Zumba® warm-up prior to the race!  This warm-up will take place on the tennis courts at Helke Park or on the "wall ball" court back behind the shelter and should begin around 7:30 AM.  Everyone is welcome to participate!

Prizes

Participants of all ages will be eligible to win awards based on age and time at the conclusion of the Vandalia Freedom Run.  Awards will be based on the top three finishers in the following age brackets: