By Lance Gaither

lance.gaither@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

The 45th annual Constitution 5K/Run for the Arts has been a Danville tradition since Joey Frankel of the Hub Frankel Department Store organized the first race in 1978.

This year’s event is scheduled for Sept. 17 and is set to begin at 5 p.m.

The race began as the Constitution 5K and has been directed by Ernst Crown-Weber of Danville Bike and Footwear since the early 2000s. In 2008, the race was first used a fundraiser for the Arts Center and has been known as the Constitution 5K/Run for the Arts.

“It has been around for a really long time and is a really special event,” said Liz Haffner, Art Center development and communications director. “We usually get about 100 runners of all ages that come out. We have raised over $50,000 from this race over the years. We are so grateful to Ernst and the community at-large for coming out and supporting us in this way.”

Funding for the race helps the Arts Center expand the ways it reaches the community.

“The race is such a longstanding tradition in Danville and we are honored to be the recipients of its goodwill,” said Bailey Underwood, Arts Center events and program manager. “Registration fees and sponsorships directly contribute to our educational programs, exhibitions, and outreach initiatives that benefit artists and art enthusiasts of all ages.”

Danville native Teague Sims has run in the race every year since he was a child and now runs along side his own son, Griffin.

Registration fees for the race are $35 per person with family discount rates available. For more information, visit Danville Bike and Footwear or go to runsignup.com/Race/KY/Danville/ConstitutionSquare5kRunfortheArts.