DARKE COUNTY – The YMCA of Darke County is busy planning its annual 5K.

This year’s race will once again be near St. Patrick’s Day, so bring your Irish spirit to the 5 Kilt Run/Walk, which is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. March 12.

The race, which is part of the Darke County Wellness Challenge, will take place at the Darke County Fairgrounds, starting near the horse barns. All the races that are part of the Darke County Wellness Challenge help fund nonprofit and community organizations, which in turn helps to support the needs of the community.

“Not only does this race provide the opportunity to get community members involved in fun and healthy activities,” YMCA of Darke County CEO Sam Casalano said, “it also helps raise funds as part of the Y’s Community Partners Annual Giving Campaign.”

The Y’s Community Partners Annual Giving Campaign fund helps support more than 2,000 individuals in Darke County, mostly children, who require financial assistance in order to benefit from the Y experience. The Y’s Financial Assistance Program provides scholarships for membership, swimming lessons, childcare, teen leadership programs, and many other services that have life-long benefits.

Late registration, which does not include a T-shirt, runs as late as 8:15 a.m. on race day and is $17 for adults and $5 for youth.

The top three male and female finishers in each age division will receive an award. Age divisions start at 10 and under and go through 70 and older.

Online registration is located at http://www.waynehealthcarechallenge.com/calendar-registration.htm or registration forms can be obtained at either YMCA branch.

Questions can be directed to Cole De’Nise at 526-4488 or [email protected].