The 9th Annual Grateful Gallop 5K: A Celebration of Community and Wellness on Small Business Saturday

The highly anticipated 9th Annual Grateful Gallop 5K presented by Grove City Area Federal Credit Union, is set to take place on Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024. This year’s event promises to bring together the local community in support of health, wellness, and small businesses. With a new twist, the Grateful Gallop is introducing a virtual 5K option for the first time, allowing participants from across the country to join in the fun, all while supporting a good cause.

A Local Tradition Supporting Health and Local Business

The Grateful Gallop 5K has become a beloved tradition in Grove City, attracting runners, walkers, and families of all ages. This year’s race will take place on Small Business Saturday, the national shopping day dedicated to supporting local businesses. The timing couldn’t be more fitting as the event encourages participants to not only prioritize their personal health and fitness but also shop locally and support small businesses in the Grove City area.

The race is a vibrant celebration of the strong sense of community that defines Grove City. In addition to physical activity, participants have the opportunity to experience the charm of the town and the hospitality of the local businesses, many of which will be offering special promotions for Small Business Saturday.

New for 2024: Virtual 5K Option

For the first time in the event’s history, the Grateful Gallop 5K is offering a virtual 5K option. This exciting new feature allows participants who can’t attend in person to still join the race from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a Grove City local or someone living far from Pennsylvania, you can register for the virtual 5K, complete the race at your own pace and on your own schedule, and still be a part of the community celebration.

The virtual 5K is designed to be flexible. Participants can run, walk, or jog their 3.1 miles wherever they are — whether it’s on a favorite trail, around their neighborhood, or even on a treadmill. You can even come out and run the actual race course on Thanksgiving morning if you want! After completing the virtual 5K, runners will submit their times online. Virtual registrants will receive a race shirt and commemorative finisher medal.

Supporting Local Causes

In addition to encouraging fitness and local shopping, the Grateful Gallop is a fundraiser for the Grove City Community Food Pantry. By participating in the 5K, attendees are not only investing in their health but also in the well-being of their neighbors.

Why Participate in the Grateful Gallop?

Whether you’re an experienced runner or a first-time participant, the Grateful Gallop 5K offers a chance to engage in physical activity while supporting a good cause. Here’s why you should join the race:

  1. Support Local: By participating in the race, you are supporting small businesses and the local community.
  2. A Great Family Event: The Grateful Gallop is open to all ages and fitness levels. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to spend the morning together.
  3. Virtual Flexibility: For the first time, the virtual 5K option means you can participate no matter where you are, whether you’re a local or living far away.
  4. Health Benefits: Physical activity is always a great way to improve your health and start your day on the right foot, especially as we head into the winter months.
  5. Fantastic Finisher Medals: Again, this year each finisher will receive a big, colorful, custom finisher medal brought to you by Wise Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine!

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 (Small Business Saturday)
  • Location: Grove City, PA (In-person race) | Virtual 5K Option (Anywhere!)
  • Registration: Open now at Grateful Gallop 5k presented by GCAFCU
  • Race Start Time: 9:00 AM (In-person race) | Virtual participants can complete the 5K anytime between 11/28 & 11/30, 2024

Register Today!

Don’t miss out on being a part of this exciting event. Whether you’re running in-person or from afar, the 9th Annual Grateful Gallop 5K presented by GCAFCU is sure to be a memorable day full of community spirit, wellness, and giving back. Register today and get ready to run or walk for a cause that matters to you, all while celebrating Small Business Saturday in beautiful Grove City, PA.

For more details and to register, visit the official Grateful Gallop website at Grateful Gallop 5k presented by GCAFCU. Join the movement, make an impact, and be grateful for the opportunity to give back to your community!