Lace Up for a Cause: The Rod’s Project 5K & Spring Fling

Please welcome Sam McCoy, Rod's Project Treasurer, as our guest blogger.

On Saturday, May 23, 2026, Rod’s Project, LLC is hosting its inaugural 5K Fun Run, utilizing the beautiful Judy Gano and adjacent trails in Wilmington. It’s the perfect way to kick off the Memorial Day weekend with some fresh air and community spirit.

The 5K Run/Walk begins and ends at the Denver Williams Park at  8:00 AM. Registration is only $15 per participant and well-behaved dogs are allowed. Every runner scores an event T-shirt and finish-line snacks to refuel. The first 100 participants to register will also receive a commemorative medallion to mark the occasion.

The finish line is just the beginning! After you catch your breath, stick around for the community festival running from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We’re turning the park into a full-blown celebration with entertainment including a Jeep Show, a corn-hole tournament, and old-time carnival games where everyone walks away a winner. You'll be able to grab a bite from local food and beverage vendors and browse unique finds from craft artisans. Visit the small petting zoo hosted by members of the East Clinton FFA.

5K DETAILS
DATE:  MAY 23, 2026
TIME:   8:00 AM
COST:  $15
LOCATION:  Denver Williams Park
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Your registration does more than just get you a morning workout. 

​Rod’s Project, LLC was established in 2015 to honor the memory of Rod Danes, and is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization. By participating, you are directly supporting East Clinton graduating students who are pursuing a higher educational degree or trade that supports agricultural science or agriculture communities. You're also supporting agriculture science students involved in FFA and 4-H by helping to fund things like livestock feed and bedding, uniforms and convention fees. Additionally, Rod's Project donates annually to the Clinton County Juvenile Court''s Bacon-n-Bits 4-H club

Grab your running shoes, bring your friends, and let's make this first 5K one for the record books. See you at Denver Williams Park on May 23rd!
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You can learn more about Rod's Project and the Spring Fling event schedule, visit RodsProject.org.