Second Annual Keene Runway 5k at the Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport Launches on May 18

Runners and walkers are preparing to take flight at the 2nd Annual Keene Runway 5K, scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 9 a.m. This unique event, which benefits the Keene Senior Center, offers participants the rare opportunity to run or walk on the runway and taxiway of the Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport, which will be closed to air traffic for 90 minutes. Organized by the Keene Senior Center with timing managed by Tri-State Racing Services, this year's event is further enhanced by the addition of the Dillant-Hopkins Airport open house. "Our Keene Runway 5K is a unique bucket list race for all ages with a flat course that encourages record breaking times," said Kim Rumrill, Executive Director of the Senior Center. "Another unique feature of this race are the multitude of prizes," said Sally Rinehart, Race Director. The event offers 26 categories of competitive prizes for both men and women, along with random prizes available to all participants. Additionally, all race entrants have a chance to win one of two free flying lessons provided by Monadnock Aviation. The entry fee will increase from $35 to $40 after May 11, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. To register for the race or review race details see the link: www.runsignup.com/Race/NH/Keene/NHRunway5k. T-shirts are only guaranteed to those who entered before May 5. This race is endorsed by the New England 65 Plus Runners Club. Their goal is to identify and support in-person races that promote The New England 65 Plus Club's mission of encouraging older runners to participate in running and walking events. The Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport will host a free open house that will commence after the race. This family-friendly event will be an opportunity to learn more about the airport and its services. Airplanes will be on display and food trucks will be on site. David Hickling, Airport Director, is encouraging pilots to fly in for the race. The center's development committee, chaired by Beth Lorenz, is currently seeking sponsors to support the Senior Center's wide range of programs and services including Cheshire Village at Home. All proceeds from the Runway 5K will benefit The Keene Senior Center, supporting its mission to provide essential services and programs to the community. For more information about sponsoring this event please contact Kim Rumrill at The Keene Senior Center at (603) 352-5037. About The Keene Senior Center and Cheshire Village at Home The Senior Center helps keep 400 + aged 50 or better seniors stay active and social through wellness programs, clubs, educational programs, games, music and dance groups, social dinners, daily hot lunches and entertainment. The Cheshire Village at Home program offers services including transportation, household chores, phone check-ins and social visits, all of which ease the burden on seniors and their families. New Hampshire does not provide funding for senior centers, so the Keene Senior Center relies on grants and donations to continue serving the community. For more information, please visit www.thekeeneseniorcenter.org or call (603) 352-5037.