The 43rd annual Butler Road Race will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, beginning in front of the Butler County Courthouse.

For the first time, the race is being organized and run by the Butler YMCA.

“We are excited to build on the expertise and tradition of this event, while continuing to help our community,” Butler Y Executive Direcrtor Francine Mills said in a prepared statement.

The BRR's tradition of offering a 2K and 5-mile race will continue this year. Proceeds will benefit the YMCA's Annual Support Campaign, which supports community programming and ensures that everyone — regardless of age, income or background — has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

“Our goal is to get 500 runners this year,” said Connie Downs, YMCA Marketing and Communications Director. “A lot of that will depend on the weather.

“We were informed they had 150 same-day registrations last year. We'll be prepared for that.”

Downs said Wednesday is the final day for runners to register on-line. Registrtations will again be accepted the day of the race.

On-line registration is available Wednesday at butlerroadrace.org or at bcfymca.org.

Registration and packet pick-up will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m. Saturday at Diamond Park.

Packet pick-up will also be available from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Butler YMCA. A spaghetti dinner will be held during those hours as well.

There are 55 volunteers currently lined up to assist with Saturday's race.

“Many members of the YMCA staff and board are volunteering and a number of volunteers from past races have reached out to offer assistance,” Downs said.

“We're looking forward to another successful day.”

A community celebration will be held in the parking lot behind Diamond Park after the race.

Nick Edinger of Mars is two-time men's defending champion in the 5-mile race. Leeanne Wirfel, a Slippery Rock University student, is two-time defending women's champion.

Seth Ketler of Cranberry Township won the men's 2K a year ago. Krista Snyder of West Sunbury was the women's champion.