2027 15th Annual Black Squirrel 5K Walk/Run/Roll & 1-Mile Walk/Run/Roll

2027 15th Annual Black Squirrel 5K Walk/Run/Roll & 1-Mile Walk/Run/Roll in Kent, Ohio, United States, will take place on Saturday, April 10. The race is a beloved tradition at Kent State University and offers two distances: the traditional five-kilometer loop course and a one-mile walk/run/roll. This event honors the university's unofficial mascot and brings together participants from all walks of life.
Race day in Kent will be crisp with temperatures averaging around 11°C, ranging from a minimum of 5.4°C to a maximum of 16.5°C. The Esplanade and surrounding areas are bustling with community spirit as residents and students alike gather for the annual celebration. With the sun shining for about 8 hours and 36 minutes, runners will find pleasant conditions on this spring day.
The five-kilometer course is a loop that begins and ends near the entrance to the Beverly J. Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center at Kent State University. The route offers a mix of firm and slightly soft trail conditions with a few small hills, making it both challenging and scenic. Runners will have the chance to spot the infamous black squirrels along their journey.
On race day, start your run from Kent State University's main campus grounds. The course layout includes several key features: marked points for easy navigation, aid stations at strategic intervals, and a finish line that is easily accessible after completing your chosen distance. Be prepared for mild winds with an average of 13.5 km/h, which might make you feel slightly cooler than the temperature suggests.

To register for this event, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Kent/BlackSquirrel5KRace up to March 21 and enjoy a T-shirt included with your fee of $30. After that date or on race day, registration is still open but at an increased cost without the T-shirt. Participants who sign up by this deadline will also receive their race bibs for pick-up starting from Friday, April 10, between 4 and 6:30 PM. Alternatively, you can collect your items early on Saturday, April 11, beginning at 7 AM.
The start location is Kent State University's main campus grounds where all the action will unfold. Participants must be at least 8 years old to join this race, with special considerations for first-time runners who might need assistance or guidance during their run. Remember that entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable should you decide not to participate.
2027 15th Annual Black Squirrel 5K Walk/Run/Roll & 1-Mile Walk/Run/Roll in Kent, Ohio, United States, on April 10. This event is more than just a race—it's a celebration of community and tradition that has grown over the years to include cash prizes for overall winners and medals for top performers in various age groups. Join us this spring to contribute to the rich tapestry of athletic events in Kent!