Registration Opens For Batavia United Way's Bat Race

BATAVIA, IL — Halloween is just short of three months away, but some organizations, including Batavia United Way, are beginning to gear up for the spooky holiday.

A slew of Halloween-themed events are scheduled in Batavia, among them being the ninth-annual Bat Race 5K/10K, slated to take place Oct. 29 along the Fox River Trail bike path.

The Bat Race serves as a fundraiser for Batavia United Way, which aims to provide education, health and financial support for Batavia residents. Registration for the event has opened, and early-bird discounts are available.

The chip-timed event is designed for runners of all ages and abilities and held in conjunction with Batavia MainStreet's BatFest, which includes trick-or-treating, a parade and a pumpkin bowl, among other activities.

The 5K and 10K races will start at 8:30 a.m., while the children's one-fourth-mile run will begin at 9:30 a.m. Runners are encouraged to wear costumes and participate in a costume contest where prizes will be awarded in various categories.

The price to enter in the kids' race is $5, while the cost to enter the 5K or 10K varies from $20 to $35. The early bird discount for non-students will be applied if people register by Aug. 31, officials said.

Regular registration will close Oct. 29.