Oberlin Earth Day 5K hits the road April 20

The race, which is open to all ages, will take runners around the western side of Oberlin and finish back in Tappan Square.

The Oberlin Earth Day 5K will take place at 10 a.m., April 20 at Tappan Square in Oberlin.

The race, which is open to all ages, will take runners around the western side of Oberlin and finish back in Tappan Square.

Ian Yarber, city of Oberlin recreation director, said the event has taken place annually for about 40 years.

Between 100 and 135 people usually turn out for the race, Yarber said.

“It’s just bringing people in the community together,” he said.

Race-day registration is $25.

Yarber said keeping the event affordable is a priority.

“We try to keep things affordable with everything we do,” he said. “The fees we take in cover the cost to put on the run, and the city generates a little bit of money.

“It’s not a lot, but we try to keep that affordability for our community to be able to enjoy things.”

Yarber said Oberlin’s Earth Day 5K usually is one of the first outdoor long distance runs of the season in the local area.

“A lot of people come to ours because it’s one of the first runs and people really enjoy the route and the community,” he said.

Yarber said another reason the event continues each year is to bring people into Oberlin.

In April in Ohio, the weather is highly unpredictable, but Yarber said people come out to the race even in bad weather.

“This time of year is so iffy, but we still continue to have the Earth Day run,” he said. “And, I think it will be around for another 40 years because the community tends to enjoy it.”

The first 100 registrants receive a T-shirt, and there will be awards for the winner of each age group.