Earlier date set for third annual fundraiser
This year’s 5Alarm Dash will include an earlier date and a new walk/run option.
The Waupaca Area Fire Department will hold the third annual event on Saturday, Aug. 29, at Swan Park.
“We’re moving it up a weekend to stay away from Labor Day weekend,” said Andrew Whitman, who is a member of the fire department.
In addition, the department is adding an untimed, one-mile scenic walk/run on the park’s trails.
“We’re adding the one mile to give people an option,” he said. “It is a tough 5K course. Also, families with young children can come out and enjoy the day and the trails by Swan Park.”
The 5K includes country roads.
Like those who are in the 5K race, participants in the one-mile option will receive a tech shirt and a free drink after their walk, Whitman said.
The one-mile walk will start at 9 a.m., and the 5K race will begin at 10 a.m.
Walkers and families are encouraged to participate. Dogs should be left at home.
Tech shirts will be guaranteed to those who sign up for the event before Aug. 23. The fee is $20.
Visit http://Race360.com/19277 to register.
People may also register on the day of the event, with the fee then $25.
That day, registrations will be accepted until 8:45 a.m. for the one-mile event and until 9:30 a.m. for the 5K run/walk.
Participants who are 21 and older will receive one free beer at the finish line.
Other beverages will be available to those who are under 21.
The 5K will be professionally chip timed by Race Day Events.
Awards for age classes will be handed out after the race, and there will be food and other refreshments available at the park.
Spine and Sport Physical Therapy of Waupaca will also offer post-race stretches and massages.
The annual Waupaca Fireman’s Raffle will be drawn at 11:30 a.m.
Raffle tickets are available now. A total of 450 tickets will be sold at a price of $50 each.
The top prize in the raffle will be $5,000, along with 10 other money prizes.
Raffle tickets are available at Farmers State Bank, Nelson’s Churchill Street Shell, Fletcher’s Jewelry and from firefighters. People may also call the fire department at 715-258-4434 to arrange for the purchase of a ticket.
This year’s sponsors of the 5Alarm Dash are Shambeau & Thern Real Estate, Waupaca Foundry, RE/MAX Lyons Real Estate, WDUX, Farmers State Bank, Spine and Sport Therapy of Waupaca and Waupaca Dental Excellence.
Last year, about 300 people participated in the event, and Whitman said the funds raised from the race and raffle were used to upgrade the fire station’s air compressor.
“That was a big accomplishment,” he said. “We appreciate the community being so supportive.”