Attendees at the 2016 Penmen For Patriots 5K. (image credit: SNHU Veterans)

SNHU will be hosting its third annual Penmen for Patriots 5K, this upcoming weekend on November 11 at 3 p.m. The race found its during Veterans week in 2013. Mike McGandy, Veterans Support Services Coordinator for SNHU, said, “We wanted to have an event that was open to both the public as well as the student community.”

Entry into the race is $30 per runner, and each runner will receive a long sleeve performance shirt, a personalized race bib (if registered 30 days prior to the event), a beer ticket from Shipyard Brewing Co. for all runners over the age of 21 and free race photos, available 2-3 business days following the event.

Proceeds from the race benefit the Easter Seals Veterans Count, designed to support veterans in the community. Two years ago, the first time the race was held, just over 100 people attended, and together they raised over $5,000. Last year, over 200 members of the community participated and raised approximately $7,000. This year, the race expects over 300 participants.

In previous years, runners have completed two loops around campus veering off campus in a few spots. This time, runners complete the 3.1 miles in a single circuit, to best accommodate the amount of runners that are expected to attend. The event is not just for runners, however; community members with children, dogs or who prefer to walk are also encouraged to participate. Awards will be given to the top three male and female overall and age group winners. The top male and female SNHU students will also receive a $50 bookstore card.

Afterwards, refreshments and snacks will be served in the Last Chapter Pub, courtesy of Sodexo, Stonyfield Farm and many contributing local businesses.

Online registration for the race closes on November 10 at noon and can be found HERE.

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