Dust off your capes and lace up your running shoes! The early bird registration deadline for this year’s Healthy Hero Hustle 5K Run/Walk is quickly approaching.
WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital and West Virginia Wesleyan College are teaming up again to host the superhero-themed race and community health fair on Saturday, September 6, 2025. The event aims to promote healthy living in the community while raising funds for the Student Nurses of Wesleyan.
Participants who register by 11:59 p.m. on August 8 will lock in the $30 early bird rate, which guarantees a race t-shirt and a swag bag. After the deadline, the registration fee increases to $35 through September 5, and t-shirts will no longer be guaranteed. Race-day registration will be available for $40.
All ages are invited to participate. Children aged 0-5 are free, but they will not receive a t-shirt.
In 2024, the event drew 117 participants and raised over $2,400 for Wesleyan’s nursing students.
The 5K run/walk, which will be professionally timed by the Appalachian Timing Group, begins at 10 a.m. at the West Virginia Wesleyan College fountain loop, located at 205 Camden Avenue in Buckhannon. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes, and awards will be given to top finishers.
The day’s festivities kick off at 9 a.m. with on-site registration, packet pick-up and the start of a free community health fair. The fair, which runs until noon, is open to the public and does not require race registration. Last year, the fair featured 16 vendors, including local health organizations, community support centers and hospital departments. Organizers are currently seeking vendors for this year’s event.
New this year, the event will conclude with a free community yoga session at noon, hosted by Soul Shine Health & Wellness. A mat is not required, but you may bring your own; a limited number will also be available to borrow.
Race day timeline
- 9 a.m. – Registration/packet pick-up | Health fair begins
- 10 a.m. – Race begins
- 11:30 a.m. – Awards ceremony
- 12 p.m. – Health fair ends | Free community yoga begins
Parking is available on the streets around the college, at the Buckhannon River Walk and on the WVWC campus.
WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital and West Virginia Wesleyan College will serve as the main sponsors for the event, in addition to other community sponsors.
To register for the Healthy Hero Hustle 5K, visit RunSignUp.com.
Organizations interested in participating as a vendor in the health fair can register by completing the online form here: Health Fair Registration Form.
