The 17th annual River City Rat Race 5K/10K was born in the year 2000 and became an instant success. With over 600 runners and walkers, and more than 100 volunteers, it was clear that this event had enormous potential. Last year’s event attracted over 1100 participants. The featured event, a 10K (6.2 miles) road race includes a run through beautiful downtown Fort Wayne and along the River Greenway.

Author and senior writer Hal Higdon of Runner’s World magazine said, “It is one of the most scenic 10K courses I’ve ever seen.” This is high praise coming from one of the most experienced and highly sought after running experts in North America.

This year’s race kicks off on a Sunday afternoon at 2pm and typically one of the last weekends before Halloween, on October 23rd. What great timing for an event called the “RAT RACE.”

Although the race attracts the top area runners, we consider this a “fun run.” Our race has more children runners than any other race in town. It includes over 250 Girls on the Run, a national running program for young girls and their partners, and many other area children.

There are many awards presented after the race, to include age group awards for the top 3 in each age group of 5-year increments, Best Costume and Middle of the Pack award.

The starting line for the race is at the corner of Main and Barr Street, adjacent to the Arts United Center. The Rat Race, both the 5K and the 10K, finish at the Old Fort, where all runners receive water, sandwich, chips, cookies and fruit.

Participants can register online at runsignup.com. Registration fee is $30 to October 16 and $32 to October 21.
Packet pickup is at the Central Branch YMCA, 1020 S. Barr Street, on Saturday, October 22, from 5-8pm. Cash or check only if you register that night for a fee of $35.

Race day packet pickup is from 12-1:30pm at the 1st Source Bank located at 200 E. Main Street near the start line. There is no race day registration.

For more information visit the website at rivercityratrace.com or pick up a postcard at any YMCA in Fort Wayne and Columbia City.