Clay County is inviting all community members to tie up their laces for a cause, as the local Veterans Council and the Clay County Board of County Commissioners come together to host the inaugural Veterans Day 5K on November 9— honoring those who've served with more than just medals and cheers. The 5K kicks off at Oakleaf Community Park at 8:00 AM, where participants will hit the pavement to support and celebrate veterans in an event equally welcoming to serious runners and casual walkers. Registration opens early at 6:30 AM, setting the pace for a day filled with physical challenges and social festivities, details of which can be found on the Clay County's website.
The morning will unfold with a warmup and stretch coupled with an opening ceremony at 7:45 AM, leading into the main event, and thereafter, at 9:30 AM, an awards ceremony that recognizes the swiftest feet across various age brackets; it's this moment in our gatherings that we oasis around the triumph of human endeavor the fellowship fashioning a bridge from the valor of past service to the virtue of today's communal stride, to stay, there's a pickup wiffle ball game for all attendees eager to swap their running shoes for batting stances, as reported by the Clay County.
Alongside the competition, the event will have a relaxed atmosphere with music, a variety of food trucks, and support from organizations for veterans. This will create a welcoming space for those who have served. If you want to join the race, you can still sign up on the event's registration page, and a race map is available for download to help you plan your route, as per the Clay County.
Following the award presentation where top male and female runners will be celebrated in each age group, including categories from 12 and under up to 70 and over, along with the fastest participants in the wheelchair race, the community is encouraged to stick around for a friendly game of wiffle ball, each swing and pitch another thread in the fabric of a day stitched with purpose and camaraderie, if you’re looking to join in, be sure to complete the Hold Harmless form and bring it to the park.
