Weather heats up for Firecracker Run

The temperature is heating up, there is plenty of sunshine and the summer is in full gear.

It must be time for the annual Park Hills – Leadington Chamber of Commerce Fourth of July Firecracker Run.

The ninth annual event takes place Saturday at Central High School. Registration and check-in begin at 7 a.m. Runners who register before Friday will pay $12 per person or $30 per family. On the day of the race, the fee is $15 per runner or walker, with no family discount. To register early, contact the chamber’s office at 573-431-1051 or go to the office on the bottom floor of Park Hills City Hall, 12 Municipal Drive.

The first 100 registrants will receive a free commemorative T-shirt. Distribution of sizes is based on availability. Walkers who finish the one-mile or 5K course will receive ribbons. Awards will go to the top overall male and female runners and the top three male/female in each age category for the one-mile run and the 5K.

The event is open to all ages.

“We have little ones in strollers and people in their 60s and 70s,” said Debbie Bunch of the chamber.

 The age categories are: Under 8, 8-10, 11-13, 14-16, 17-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and older. The one-mile run and walk begins at 8 a.m. at the high school, followed by the 5K walk. The 5K run will begin at the conclusion of the one-mile run/walk. Both courses end at the high school.

The Cape Road Runners will serve as official timers for runners. Walkers will not be timed.

Volunteers are needed to help direct runners and stop traffic along the course. The event lasts between two and three hours, and is usually over before the day heats up. Call the chamber office to volunteer.

Paula Barr is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 172 or at pbarr@dailyjournalonline.com.