The Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) will host its Inaugural “JAXEX RUNWAY 5K” at Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (JAXEX) on Saturday, June 8, for a day of community, exercise and supporting local military families.

The event will feature a 5K run beginning at 7:30 a.m. and a one-mile “Fun Run” at 8:30 a.m. A portion of both race courses will include the airport runway at JAXEX (which will be closed to air traffic during the event).

The Greater Jacksonville Area USO provides support and services to local military members and their families. Proceeds from the event will be presented to the USO later this year during the dedication of the James E. Craig Memorial Pavilion at JAXEX. Craig, the namesake of the airport, was a Jacksonville native killed during the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

 “The JAA is thrilled to support our troops and their families through our first-ever 5K event,” JAXEX Airport Manager Tiffany Gillem said. “We’re so proud of our local military and appreciate all of the sacrifices they make to keep our country safe. They’re all heroes.”  

 “This 5K on the runway is unlike any other in the community,” JAA’s Director of External Affairs Michael Stewart said. “We are confident that this race will make for a fun, inspiring and unforgettable morning.”

For more information and to register for the Inaugural JAXEX RUNWAY 5K events, visit www.jaxexrunway5k.com.  Register before June 1 to take advantage of the discounted entry fee of $20 for the 5K and $15 for the “Fun Run.”  The 5K registration fee will increase to $30 the day of the race. Space is limited for this event. 

For more information about JAXEX, visit flyjaxex.com.