The freshest of 5Ks

A fresher and cooler 5K is coming to West Homewood this month. West Homewood Farmer’s Market’s Fresh Start 5K will return on Oct. 18. 

In 2013, its first year, the race was held in July, which made for uncomfortable temperatures. This year, the market hopes for a fairer running environment by hosting it in the fall. 

“[The temperatures] made me miserable when we had it in July,” Market Manager Kenyon Ross said. 

Along with the change in month, the race will feature better equipment, including an electronic timing system that will give the runners almost immediate results. Prizes will be awarded for first-, second- and third-place runners in both men’s and women’s categories.

The purpose of the run is to raise money to help fund the market in the future. Although staff for the market are volunteers and do not receive personal payment, the market counts on fundraising events such as this to continue its work. Their hope for the run, similar to the hope for their market, is that it will build community and encourage buying local in West Homewood. 

“[We want them to] get introduced to this quaint little neighborhood on the other side of 65,” Ross said. 

The Fresh Start 5K will begin at 8 a.m. on Oct. 18 at 160 Oxmoor Road. The 5K will cost $10 per runner or $25 with a T-shirt. There will also be a children’s fun run free of charge. For more information or to register for the run, visit westhomewood.com.