Contributed photo by Jim Wildgen/Leaders in 2025 Stony Lake Sparkler.
Last year’s race raised $30,000 for the Crystal Valley Care Fund
BENONA TOWNSHIP — The Annual Stony Lake Sparkler 5K Run and 1-mile Fun Run/Walk is scheduled for Sunday, July 5. Everyone is welcome to turn out and cheer on the runners as they help raise funds for the Crystal Valley Care Fund.
The Stony Lake Association has sponsored a run to raise funds for a local charity since 2015. The goal was to create a fun, family activity as part of the Fourth of July celebration for the Stony Lake area and other local communities. Another goal is promoting community involvement, drawing possibly a couple hundred runners, and soliciting sponsorships to fund a decent-sized contribution. From an initial 500 participants at the first event in 2015, the race has reached its maximum capacity of 1,000 runners for the last three years. Approximately 100 volunteers are involved, and spectators line the route to cheer on the athletes.
Contributed photo by John Malnor/ The start of 2025 Stony Lake Sparkler.
Last year’s race raised over $30,000 for the Crystal Valley Care Fund, a local charity that helps people with crisis needs.
Race Day begins with packet pickup from 7-8 a.m. in the parking lot of the Stony Lake Inn. Early packet pickup and registration is set for 9-11 a.m. at the inn Saturday, July 4. The 1-mile fun run/walk begins at 8 a.m., and the professionally-timed 5K run/walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Limited free parking is available on the Benona ball field, but participants and spectators are urged to carpool, walk or bicycle to the race if possible.
All fun run participants receive awards, with special 5K awards to male and female overall winners, masters, and grand master winners, and first, second and third place winners in age groups. There also are special awards for largest family and best spirit costume. The race course is an easy out and back along scenic back roads.
A fun post-race party is again planned in the parking lot of the Stony Lake Inn and includes great food and music. To register, visit stonylakesparkler.com.
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