ATHOL — Organizers and participants of the annual Big Cheese 5K Road Race and Walk are hoping for some sunny weather come race day this Saturday.
“We are optimistic it is going to be a beautiful day,” said Matt Talbot, associate executive director of the Athol Area YMCA.
So far around 230 people plan to participate in the 5K festivities, from running to walking, and even wearing silly costumes.
Talbot said the recent snowy weather may be the reason for the lower number of current participants than previous years. But YMCA Director Jeanette Robichaud is hopeful for a good turnout, anticipating 400 to 450 runners come race day.
The forecast for Saturday is 65 degrees and only a “slight chance” of rain, according to the National Weather Service in Taunton.
“We usually get from 150 to 200 (participants) on the race day,” said Robichaud. “So we are confident we will get the kind of numbers that we normally do.”
Last year’s race drew 405 participants to the starting line, while in 2016, 479 runners and walkers took part.
The race starts on School Street at 9:30 a.m. and finishes in front of Town Hall. At 10:30 a.m., on the steps of Town Hall, prizes are awarded to the top three participants in each category — and for the best costume.
Last year Aaron Stone, 34, was the top overall winner of the race at 17:32; Emma Currier, 16, was the top female runner at 22:18; and David Kymalainen, 65, was the top walker with a time of 36:03.
The race route is certified by U.S. Track and Field. Just before mile two, participants find themselves face-to-face with the Exchange Street Hill, known to be a tough part of the race. Robichaud said the organizers bring in extra motivational support for the runners and walkers.
“We usually have someone at the top of the hill to cheer people on and encourage them up the hill,” she said.
The race’s proceeds are donated to local programs in need. The top three programs that receive the most money are the North Quabbin Food-a-thon, the Franklin County Meals on Wheels program and the YMCA for scholarships, which allow kids to attend summer camp.
Same-day registration is available at the Athol Memorial Building at 8 a.m. Talbot said any new runners can also register at the YMCA on Main Street.