The Slicer Performing Arts Club (SPArC) 5K Run and Walk returns to La Porte, Indiana on October 11th, bringing together runners, joggers, trotters, and walkers for a day filled with community spirit and support for the arts. The event kicks off at La Porte High School, winding through familiar streets and neighborhoods before reaching Kesling Park—a central gathering place that echoes with the energy of local residents out to cheer on participants.
La Porte in October is a blend of crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage, providing a picturesque backdrop for this year's edition. As runners make their way along the route, they’ll pass by familiar landmarks like old oak trees lining 10th Street and the bustling South Lot where race parking will be available. The atmosphere is one of anticipation mixed with community pride, as locals gather to witness the dedication and spirit of those participating in this meaningful event.
This year marks SPArC's second annual run, continuing a tradition that has already become an integral part of La Porte’s fall calendar. Last year saw over 200 participants coming together to celebrate both athletic achievement and artistic endeavor. Medals will be awarded for the top overall male and female finishers as well as age-group winners in this year's race. Additionally, there is a special event for younger members of the community—the Mini Slicer Sprint—a short dash designed just for 4th graders and under, offering each participant their own medal upon crossing the finish line.
The course itself begins at La Porte High School’s South Lot off of 10th Street before moving through residential areas with a return to Kesling Park. The route is primarily on firm yet slightly soft trails that provide both comfort for runners' feet and scenic views of local parks and neighborhoods. Runners will experience an elevation profile featuring gradual inclines, making the race challenging enough to be rewarding without being overly strenuous.
As participants prepare for October 11th, they can expect mild weather conditions typical of La Porte in autumn. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 13.3°C with occasional gusts adding to the brisk feel of early fall mornings. Humidity levels sit at approximately 69%, ensuring that while sweat may form during exertion, it won’t be overly oppressive due to cooler temperatures and mild winds. With an expected UV index of moderate strength (4.0), participants are advised to wear sunscreen for protection against sun exposure.
Mini Slicer Sprint!
100m • Start: 09:45:00 • Fee: $20.00
SPArC 5 K Run & Walk
5K • Start: 10:00:00 • Fee: $40.00
For those planning to join the Slicer Performing Arts Club (SPArC) 5K Run and Walk, registration is now open at [Registration URL]. Fees start at $20.00 for children participating in the Mini Slicer Sprint! For the main event, runners can sign up for the SPArC 5 K Run & Walk with a fee of $40.00 per participant. The first hundred registrants will receive a limited edition black and orange beanie to commemorate their participation.
Bib pickup details are as follows: on race day morning between 7:30 AM and 8:15 AM at the start location in La Porte High School’s South Lot, participants should bring their confirmation email or any printed receipt. For those unable to attend this time slot, bibs will also be available for pickup after October 4th from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday and on Saturday morning until race day.
The start of the Slicer Performing Arts Club (SPArC) 5K Run and Walk is set at La Porte High School’s South Lot, accessible via 10th Street. The event welcomes participants aged four and up for both main races and the Mini Sprint! All runners should arrive early to familiarize themselves with the course layout and ensure a smooth start.
As October rolls in along Indiana's northern shores, join us at La Porte High School on October 11th for another memorable run around La Porte. The Slicer Performing Arts Club (SPArC) 5K Run and Walk promises not only to be a day of athletic challenge but also an opportunity to support the vibrant performing arts community within this tight-knit town, making it a race that truly stands out in both distance covered and spirit shared.
