Whether you're getting ready for that spring half marathon or looking to test your winter training in your first 5k of the year, the Choo Choo is for you. We have race options of 9 miles or 5K, both runner and walker-friendly. Join us on April 5th for something great, the Choo Choo 9 Miler and 5K.
We're going to deliver a great shirt, new finisher medals for everyone, and a fun time. You're going to deliver the memories. Get on the believe train and come run with us! All aboard!
As you take part in the Choo Choo, you'll be paying homage to the legend of the central Ohio railways, the late Silas B. Rutherford and his beloved Bessie Express. Just as the good citizens of Westerville have done for generations, kick off your spring by celebrating Silas' final journey aboard his ill-fated steam engine - and then cover those final 9 miles in his memory.
If you're looking for a group to train with in preparation for the event, the Columbus Running Company hosts free group runs every Saturday morning at all locations. Runs start at 8 am, all abilities and paces are welcome.
The Choo Choo 9 Miler and 5K is supporting OYO Camp, Ohio's Camp for Deaf/HH Kids through donations made through the race site. If you want to help out or learn more, simply click on the big "DONATE" button at the top of the page. You are not required to register for the race to donate.
The Choo Choo 9 Miler & 5k pay tribute to one of the legends of central Ohio, the late Silas B. Rutherford. For the full story of why we cover 9 miles, please be sure to read up on the legend of the great Silas here.
Race packets may be picked up early at Columbus Running Company's Westerville location (50 N State St) on Thursday, April 2 (10 AM - 8 PM), Friday, April 3 (10 AM - 8 PM) and Saturday, April 4 (10 AM - 6 PM). You may also pick up your packets at the race beginning at 7:30 AM on April 5. Reminder: there is no race day registration!
There is ample parking in the immediate downtown area, with multiple garages and lots within a quarter-mile of the start/finish line. Open parking meters are also free on Sundays.
There is no race day registration. Race day packet pickup will begin at 7:30 AM
Both races will be chip timed, and all finishers will receive an awesome medal to honor their accomplishments while also honoring the spirit of the late Silas B. Rutherford. Top finishers and age group winners will receive special awards and recognition.
Have fun with a group and participate as a team. Each team member must individually register under their team name. The first person signing up for a team will create the team during the registration process and all others signing up for that team will select their team name during their registration. For help with team registration and/or creation, please view the help topic by clicking here.
Running with a stroller is absolutely fine. At the race start, please line up at the back of the pack for safety reasons. Running with dogs is prohibited: as is bicycling, inline skating, scooters, hoverboards, etc. Walking and running only in this event.
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
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