Heroes for Education 5K Is Back. And Yes, the Mascots Are Racing Again

Mark the calendar: Sunday, October 4 is the 12th Annual Heroes for Education 5K at John Prince Park in Lake Worth, and if you've lived here a while, you've probably already seen the finisher shirts floating around town from years past.

The morning has a little something for everyone. Race-day registration opens at 6 a.m., the Kids 1-Mile Fun Run goes off at 7:20, the main 5K starts at 7:45, and the Kids 100-Yard Dash follows at 8:45. Then comes the part locals tend to talk about most — the School Mascot Race at 9 a.m., where costumed Palm Beach County school mascots sprint for a $250 top prize (with $100 guaranteed just for lacing up). Watching a gator try to out-sprint a raptor in a foam costume is, honestly, worth the early wake-up alone.

Underneath the fun, there's a real purpose. The race is organized by the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, and prize money, up to $1,800 for the top overall school team, goes directly back to that school for supplies, not to individual clubs. New this year: a Fastest Principal and Fastest Teacher award, so don't be surprised if you see a familiar face from the front office crossing the finish line early.

Registration starts at $40 for the general 5K (or $30 with a school district ID) through the Sept. 7 early-bird window, and climbs as race day approaches. There's also a new virtual 5K if running your own route works better for your schedule, you'll still get the medal and shirt. Every finisher across the 5K and kids' races takes home a medal, and organizers are capping the race at 2,000 runners this year, so it's worth signing up before it fills.

Whether you're running, walking, or just there to cheer on a mascot, it's a solid way to spend a Sunday morning supporting local schools.

You can find more information at 12th Annual Heroes for Education.