By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Ellinwood's After Harvest Festival has been a local tradition for 51 years. Last year, there was a small change to the tradition as the 5K race, normally held early Saturday morning before the parade, was moved to Friday evening. AHF Chairperson Nancy Baird said, based on last year's success, this year's AHF 5K Family Fun Run & Walk will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 19.
"I think moving it to Friday night, people maybe don't love getting up bright and early on that Saturday morning," she said. "I felt like it was more of a family event. We saw quite a few families doing it together. It's over and you can still do the dance, head to your class reunion, or be involved in other activities."
Last year's event grew by approximately 100 participants over the year before. Walkers and families can make it a fun event, or a timing company has been hired for those who want to race competitively.
"There will be a top 5K male and female in each age group," Baird said. "They will win a medal and we are recognizing them on the stage at the dance at 8:45. Walkers are going to start at 7 p.m., and runners will start at 7:30. That way, everyone is kind of finishing at the same time."
Preregistration is required by June 20 to guarantee a shirt. Entry fees on or before May 24 are $15 for ages 6-12, and $25 for ages 13 and older. Add five dollars if registering after May 24. Everyone who preregisters can pick up their bib and t-shirt from 10-39 Cafe in downtown Ellinwood on July 18 at 7 p.m. The first 100 people to register will also receive a free swag bag.
Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic is the main sponsor for this year's event. Other sponsors include N'Bloom Floral & Gift, the Ellinwood Rec Commission, Armor Ink, People's Bank & Trust, Miller's of Claflin, and H&B Communications.
"I am very grateful to Ellinwood District Hospital," said Baird. "They are organizing this whole 5K run and walk. I so appreciate Kristy Rupe with the Ellinwood Hospital Foundation office and her staff because they make this happen."
CLICK HERE to access a printable registration form for this year's event.