The Mantua Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post will host its fourth annual 5K run and one mile walk for charity for people of all ages on Sunday, Oct. 2.
The event will take place at the group’s post at 8 New York Ave., across the street from the municipal building and police station. It will begin at 10 a.m.
“Last year we had around 80 people,” said Joseph Heitman, a past VFW post commander. “This happened because the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia got rescheduled to October, and it would have been a lot for people. I’m hoping this year for a minimum of 100 people.”
Proceeds from the event will be split between the VFW post and Veterans Haven South, according to Heitman. The latter is located in Hammonton and serves as a refuge for homeless veterans and other former soldiers who have fallen on hard times. The facility is funded by the state’s Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
Money raised from the run comes through registration of participants and sponsors asked by the VFW to participate, usually local businesses.
Some of those that have participated in the past include the Barnsboro Inn, Edge Fitness Clubs, Old Soul Tattoo and the American Legion.
“The 5K benefits our VFW,” said Heitman.
The event is still rather young, having taken place only three times before. The post had its most tumultuous year in 2020 because of COVID.
“We didn’t collect money (that year) because a lot of the businesses were closed,” Heitman explained. “All our money that year came from registrations.”
Those interested in participating on Oct. 2 can register by clicking a link at linmarksports.com. Deadline to register is Sept. 29 at midnight.
The event will feature live and virtual runs that will each cost $30. Those ages 1 to 21 will pay a discounted price of $25. The walk is only available live; fee is $20 for students and $25 for nonstudents.
