5K races near Plattsburg

The Vermont PANDAS & PANS Awareness 5K Run/Walk is a 5K in Burlington, starting and ending at the Burlington Surf Club on Lakeside Avenue. It is designed as a fun run and walk, allowing competitive runners to race while walkers and families can participate at a more relaxed pace. The event aims to raise awareness for PANS/PANDAS, an autoimmune disorder that can affect children and young adults. The day features a DJ, refreshments, t-shirts, medals, prizes, and access to information and specialists who can discuss the condition. PANS refers to Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, and PANDAS refers to Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections. The event collaborates with The Alex Manfull Fund, a New Hampshire 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on awareness, education, and research for post-infectious neuroimmune disorders. Net proceeds benefit Dartmouth Hospital’s Neuroimmune Psychiatric Disorder clinic.

The GMAA Turkey Trot 5K begins and ends at UVM Gutterson Fieldhouse in Burlington, Vermont, following the University of Vermont women's cross-country course. This Thanksgiving-season 5K has a donation-based entry: runners are asked for a small cash donation per person or family, or a food donation. Net proceeds support Feeding Chittenden. The race is open to all ages and welcomes walkers, proceeding in any weather. The course is a loop featuring cinder or paved path, grass, and some single track, offering a cross-country feel rather than a road 5K. Walkers and slower runners should start toward the back due to potential crowding on the opening stretch. The course prohibits pets, strollers, bicycles, and headphones. A free quarter-mile kids' race occurs just before the 5K. Timing is managed with a large race clock, recording only the top 10 times. Raffle prizes are awarded after the race to participants and volunteers.

This year marks the 4th annual edition. The course kicks off and finishes at the Plattsburgh City Beach, behind the Crete Center. After crossing the finish line, stick around for the Lake City Running Festival's after-party. It's open to everyone, with a suggested $5 donation for non-athletes. You'll find live music, food, beer/wine, cornhole, and raffles. Strollers, baby joggers, or pets cannot be accommodated.