The St. Fennessey 4K is for more than just runners, and with the St. Patrick’s Day themed race, you don’t need luck to cross the finish line.

For participants of the St. Fennessey 4K this past weekend, it was quite the top of the morning for those dressed in green.

The race is a staple of St. Patrick’s weekend in the Northland, and some nicer weather than expected was welcomed.

“This is always a fun start because it’s been a long winter and we haven’t been able to be outside and do events like this,” said Public Relations & Marketing Director, Grandma’s Marathon. “This is one we look forward to, and with it being a shorter distance, a 4K with a 2K option, being around St. Patrick’s day, it’s a little bit more of an event than it is a race. It feels like the running part is almost superfluous.”

The event is anchored by its volunteers, like those that have been around for 49 years.

“It’s fun. The people you meet and that come back year after year, you develop great friendships,” said Candy Fury, a volunteer for 49 years. “I can tell you that personally from the packet pickup area. I’ve got the same volunteers coming back to help me year after year after year. So once you get started, you won’t quit. You won’t quit.”

The race is only a 4K, allowing particpants to not have to run. Walking is welcome, and the shorter nature of it is more welcoming to those that may be new.

“You got to start out with the shorter races and work up to the half, then finally to full and then after you do that, then you can say, I quit. That’s enough running,” said Furo.

Afterwards, those that finished the St. Fennessey 4k head over to Skyline Social and Games for some bowling, drinks, and just a fun time to come together and celebrate both the weekend, and their accomplishments.

“So come on down next year for the 50th. That’s going to be a blast. You are not going to be disappointed. You’re going to have a great fun time. I look forward to getting to come because it’s the 50th. Come on, let’s do this thing!”