Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


Runners of all ages and abilities still have time to register for the 12th Annual Run For the Gold 5K and Kids Fun Run this weekend.

The event is hosted by Light of the World Academy and will take place this Saturday as part of Pinckney’s St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebration.

In previous years, depending on the March weather, the event has hosted anywhere from 300 to 650 runners and their spectators.

The run is a mixture of Michigan country dirt roads, paved trails, and the streets of downtown Pinckney—a course that attracts all types of area runners.

The race starts and ends in Village Square Park so that runners are positioned to enjoy the bed races and St. Patrick’s Day Parade after. The 5K begins at 10am, followed by the Kids Run at 11am. Awards will be given at 11:30 and the Pinckney Bed Races and St. Patrick’s Day Parade kicks off shortly thereafter.

Light of the World Academy is located close to the heart of Pinckney, just off D-19 and M-36.

Director of Montessori Kathy Moorehouse said “It’s so much fun to see walkers and runners of all ages coming together to welcome the spring season and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This has become such a fun tradition in our community.”

This year’s race proceeds will help build a new playground at the school.

Pinckney Police issued the following reminder on social media:
“Quick Reminder.....
The Run for the Gold 5K and the St Pat's Day Parade are on the 16th. There will be detours around the down town area. Runners versus vehicles is always a bad plan sooooo, like last year, we plan on keeping the runners safe by closing Mower Rd, Cedar Lake Rd, and M36 until the last runner passes Unadilla. We can then open the roadway to let cars pass the area on Mower/Cedar Lake and on Unadilla St. There were some highly upset folks last year that couldn't get to their homes due to the closures. If you have to leave, please do it before 9:00 am and the roads should be back open around 12:30pm. The parade and clean up should be done around 2:00pm then the downtown area will open up. Come and enjoy the race and parade. Have a coffee at Earth's Energy or Pinckney Bakery. The Pinckney Diner and Aunt Betty's are open and have great food.”

More information about Run For the Gold is available in the provided link, as well as in the event section of the WHMI website.