There is plenty to do for running and walking enthusiasts in the area this summer starting with a 5K run/walk in Paden City.

The Foundation 5K in Paden City will be held Saturday, June 2, rain or shine. The starting time is 9 a.m. and race-day registration will begin at 8 a.m. The start/finish line will be at Centennial Park (Main Street and 3rd Ave.) in Paden City.

There will be a few events just prior to the race start: registration ceases at 8:45 a.m. at which time there will be a Blessing of the Runners/Walkers delivered. The American Legion Post #86 of Paden City will then hold a flag-raising. Some special recognition of corporate sponsors will take place and then the race will begin.

The course will involve 3rd Ave. from Main to Stephen Street; Stephen Street from 3rd to 2nd Avenues; 2nd Avenue from Stephen north to Paden City Elementary School; and return all the way to Main Street.

Main Street will be used from 2nd Ave. to the Ford Park (city park) walking trail. The walking trail will be used around the ball fields, pool and through the parking lot of the marina before exiting the park and returning to Main Street to 2nd Ave. South to Robinson; Robinson from 2nd to 3rd Avenue and finishing on 3rd Ave. at Centennial Park.

Residents along the race route are urged to proceed with caution when entering the street.

The streets in Paden City will remain open to traffic but there will be race volunteers at the corners to slow traffic and provide safety and direction to the race runners and walkers.

All of the race participants are anticipated to clear the course by 10 a.m.

Awards will be presented at the conclusion of the race on 3rd Ave. at Centennial Park.

The area of Centennial Park and 3rd. Ave. will be closed during the start of the race and traffic will be restricted during the race in that area as the runners and walkers will be nearing the finish line. Residents on this portion of 3rd Ave. are asked to clear that street as much as possible and refrain from driving on the street between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on June 2.

The race, in its second year, is a fund-raiser for the Paden City Foundation Scholarship Fund (Hope and Owen McKay Scholarship), the Paden City Museum and the Cornerstone Project.

“We are planning on at least 120 participants this year,” said race organizer Rodney McWilliams.

“Last year, there were 100 so we’re hoping to grow a little this year.”

“The course is flat and easy so we’re hoping that anyone who enjoys running or walking whether competitively or as a recreational hobby, will come out and join in the fun and fellowship and support some worthy causes for the betterment of our community.”

The registration fee is $10 and each entrant will receive a race T-shirt.

Plaques and medals will be awarded and there will be refreshments at the conclusion of the race.

Pre-registration is encouraged and forms can be obtained at Wesbanco-Paden City, Quinet’s in New Martinsville, the Paden City Public Libray, and the Paden City Museum. Race forms can also be printed on-line at rivercityrunners.com (clicking on the Calendar and Events tab, 2012 Race Calendar) or by e-mailing trumpet120@hotmail.com or calling 304-482-9684.