The Portage County Animal Protective League will host the Barktober 5K run and one-mile walk this Saturday, Oct. 4, at Gracie Fields.
Proceeds from this event will be used for “animal care, food and nutrition, toys and bedding to medical needs like spay and neuter surgeries, immunizations and rehabilitative medical care,” per the Portage APL’s website. There is also a virtual option for both races.
The 5K run begins at 11 a.m. with the one-mile walk following at 11:05 a.m. The 5K will be professionally timed by GCXC Racing.
There is a record number of participants registered for the event this year, Portage APL Executive Director Chalan Lowry and Race Director Patty Wilson said in an email.
Race day registration is still available from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., but there is no T-shirt guarantee. Due to the record number of sign-ups, there will also be no 5K medals for race day registrations.
Meijer gift cards will be given to the first, second and third place overall male and female winners. There will also be an award for top canine.
A costume contest will begin at 10:40 a.m. with awards for first, second and third place canine and canine-human duo costumes.
Participants will have the opportunity to take photos with their families and canines. A fall themed photo booth will be available and feature cornstalks and pumpkins.
Photos will be taken by Samantha Kropp of Kropp Photography in Streetsboro.
The Parked Pierogi and Zonuts and Lattes food trucks will be set up for participants to fuel up before and after their race. Cookies, apple cider and kettle corn will also be available.
Early packet pickup will be from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 3 at Sequoia Wellness Center. Race day packet pickup begins at 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Gracie Fields, located at 3540 Cook Road, Rootstown.
“We thank you for your support and for making this our biggest Barktober yet,” Lowry and Wilson said in an email. “We look forward to seeing you at the start line!”
To learn more about the event, visit the Portage APL’s website or its Facebook page.
Loreal Puleo is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].