Runners get ready to start the 5k race in the 48th Annual Butler Road Race on Saturday, June 24, 2023. This year’s race will be a hot one when the starting gun goes off at 9 a.m. Eagle file photo

Bring water, a damp towel and plenty of sunscreen.

Runners in Saturday’s Butler Road Race, which begins at Diamond Park, should be prepared for unseasonably hot temperatures, according to Butler YMCA development director Christina Dreher.

The summer running staple in the city, in its 49th year, will once again feature a 5-mile race starting at 9 a.m. and a 2k starting a few minutes later. The Butler Road Race is expected to draw a few hundred runners of all ages and abilities.

“It’s absolutely on our radar,” Dreher said of the heat. “Bring some water, maybe consider bringing an electrolyte drink (like Gatorade or Liquid IV).”

Dreher said the YMCA will have water stations throughout the course as well as a Gatorade mix. Emergency responders will also be on hand.

There are more than 100 runners pre-registered for the Butler Road Race, according to Dreher. The Y is expecting more day-of registrations.

New this year to the race, Dreher said, are “higher-quality t-shirts” and medals for pre-registered runners. Those who pre-registered and children less than 17 years old were also offered discounted entry fees, as were employees of Independence Health System, this year’s race sponsor.

“We’re always really excited,” Dreher said. “Any community event like this we can put together celebrates health and wellness (and Butler).”

She also said the YMCA is already planning next year’s 50th annual race and hope to have “better running perks.”

Location: Start and finish at Diamond Park, downtown Butler

Time: 9 a.m. (5 mile), 9:05 (2k)

Cost to register (day of): Those interested in signing up to run can still do so the day of by cash or check; registration Saturday morning begins at 7:30 a.m. and costs $35 for the 2k, and $45 for the 5-mile, for adults. Children 17 and younger are $20 and $25, respectively.