SMA 5k Set For Saturday, April 9th

DOVER — Saint Mary Academy will host their 9th annual SMA 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, April 9 with a 9:00 am start.

As part of the Dover Race Series, SMA race coordinators are looking forward to hosting the SMA 5k that takes runners through historic downtown Dover and the Dover Community Trail.

“This race and the Dover series allow us to advance our mission of educating our children in mind, body, and spirit,” said Beth Evans, advancement director at the school.

The SMA 5K Run/Walk will begin and end at St. Mary Academy located at 222 Central Ave. The course is certified and will be chip-timed. Registration is $25 ($30 day of). Registration can be completed at https://runreg.com/sma-5k-runwalk0.

"We love our 5K and all of our participants. This is a wonderful community event not just for our school but for all of Dover and surrounding areas,” said Evans. “At the post-race event, our recess area turns into a fun atmosphere where family and friends gather in support of all our runners.”

According to race director Lise Study, the fun doesn't end with the post-race food. "Local DJ Mike Pomp will keep the day moving by announcing and playing music to energize the runners and engage the crowd. Once again, we will offer cash prizes for our top three male and female overall runners, as well as prizes for the top three runners, male and female, in each of eight age categories,” said Study.

“Bibs may be picked up Friday, April 8 at Saint Mary Academy from 4:00-6:00 pm.,” Study added.

As in years past, the local running group “Run for God” will be participating. Run for God, facilitated by Molly Wade from Madbury, includes several hundred local runners who train for 12 weeks for the race. “Our team color this year is kelly green, which is a color associated with renewal, nature, and energy. This seems very fitting given all that has happened over the past few years. We can’t wait to cheer one another forward to another finish line,” says Study.

To find out more about Saint Mary Academy, please visit www.saintmaryacademy.org.