On March 27, the third annual Pierpont Veterans 5K will kick off at Veteran’s Square Plaza, located at 320 Adams St. in downtown Fairmont.

The purpose of the event is to raise money to support veterans’ education, services and scholarships. There will also be post-race refreshments and sponsors donating to the event in addition to the festive atmosphere.

The 3.1 mile, out and back, course begins at Veterans’ Square at the corner of Adams and Madison Streets. After one block up Adams Street, runners will then turn left onto Jefferson Street, crossing the Mollohan Bridge.

At Merchant Street all racers will start the sharp uphill climb on the recreation/bike path paralleling the “Gateway Connector,” and a municipal park is the site of the one mile mark. Run organizers recommend runners grab a drink at the water/aid station before entering the steepest part of the course — the final climb toward WaveTec Park and Fairmont’s Vietnam War and Korean War Memorials, which are currently under construction.

The course loops at the top of the hill, returning runners back down along the same path.

The 2014 “Veterans Challenge” will feature a special category and prizes for the top Veteran and Active Duty runners. Free registration is being offered for Veterans and Active Duty Military Personnel for both the 5K run and two mile walk.

For younger runners, the race will start at Veterans’ Square and run to the Court House, approximately 200 yards and then return to the finish. Additional children’s activities are scheduled throughout the main events.