The Franklin-Simpson Chamber of Commerce Garden Spot 5K Run/Walk Presented by The Medical Center at Franklin, Med Center Health is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community, perseverance and the beauty of the city. Every year, runners and walkers of all ages and abilities gather on the beautiful downtown square to participate in this event. The draw is the promise of fresh air, scenic views and the camaraderie of fellow athletes, and the knowledge this race has become one of the premier races in South Central Kentucky, while continuing to be one of the lowest cost races in the area.
Now in its 43rd year, the event will be held on August 9, 2025. Start time for the runners is 7:30am, with walkers following at 7:32am. Beginning on the historic square, the 3.1-mile course runs south through residential neighborhoods. The course would be considered mostly flat with both shady and sunny conditions. Along the way, residents line the streets to encourage the runners and walkers. As participants cross the finish line, they are greeted with encouragement from an enthusiastic crowd of onlookers. Race officials encourage runners and walkers to get water, fruit and sports bars to rehydrate and replenish their energy.
Awards are presented to overall winners in both the Run and Walk (both male and female), special awards are presented to Simpson County Winners in both categories. Awards are also presented to the top three finishers (male and female) in 15 age groups for both the Run and Walk.
Prior to the Garden Spot, we will have the Chaney’s Dairy Barn Moo Run. This free event that kicks off at 7:00am allows kids eight and under to experience a short run through the arches of the Start Line, run a short distance and then run through the Finish Line. At the conclusion of the Moo Run, each participant receives a Participation Medal and a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream at Chaney’s Dairy Barn.
Support for the Garden Spot Run/Walk comes from many local businesses who participate as Contributing Sponsors. The list includes the City of Franklin, Simpson Fiscal Court, the Franklin-Simpson Industrial Authority, Priceless IGA, Franklin Bank and Trust Company, Legacy Group Properties, and The Mint at Kentucky Downs. Additional Contributing Sponsors include SKYCTC, NHK/New Mather Metals Inc., Wilkins Eyecare, German American Bank, Franklin Electric Plant Board, Franklin Precision Industries and The Grande. In addition, the event will bring together approximately 120 volunteers including individuals, members of the Chamber and other civic clubs, the F-S High School Softball Team and boosters, the F-S High School Cheer Team and boosters, Franklin Business and Professional Women’s Club, Am Vet’s Ladies Auxiliary and the Franklin Rotary Club, as well as law enforcement from the Franklin Police Department, the Simpson County Sheriff’s Department and Emergency Management’s CERTS program. Public Works from both the City and County play a huge role in the successful operation of the event.
Participants can register online at www.runsignup.com or in person at the Chamber Office at 201 South Main in Franklin. Pre-registration and online registration is $20 until 11:59pm August 3rd, at which time online registration will end. Beginning August 4th, the registration fee will be $30 until race time. For more information, contact Steve Thurmond at steve@franklinsimpsonchamber.com, or by calling 270-586-7609.
-submitted by Franklin-Simpson Chamber of Commerce
Be the first to comment