Time to register for annual Tootsie Roll 5K and fun run
MADISON–Initseighth year, the Tootsie Roll 5k & Fun Run is scheduled for Nov. 1 with the start/finish line at Madison City Schools Stadium.
The Knights of Columbus, Council 10232 and Council 17519, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church of Madison coordinate the run. The event has grown to become the major fundraiser for MCS Special Education Department.
The Madison district will receive 100 percent of event proceeds. The Madison run is affiliated with a nationwide campaign by Knights of Columbus.
The 5k’s start/finish lines will be at Madison City Schools Stadium at 211 Celtic Drive. USA Track & Field has certified the run.
From the starting line at the stadium, runners will go north on Celtic Drive. The route then meanders through downtown to reach Lanier Road. Next, the route turns south on Garner Street and continues to the halfway point near Sullivan Street. Runners will then turn around and return to the stadium.
Fleet Feet, 181 Hughes Road, will serve as packet pickup on Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Race Day on Nov. 1, pickup will be available at the stadium at 7 a.m.
The Presenting Sponsor is At Your Service general maintenance and repairs.
To register, visit runsignup. com/Race/AL/Madison/ KofCTootsieRoll5K. In the “Events” section, click “Sign Up” for the 5k, or click “Sign Up” for the 5k and Fun Run.
Fee for the Tootsie Roll 5K and Fun Run is $30; price will increase after Oct. 10. Fee for the Fun Run only is $15; price will increase after Oct. 31. MCS students who join their school’s team for the 5k will receive a $5 discount. For more fee information, visit runsignup. com/Race/Register/?raceId= 64847.
In his “District Update” in January 2025, MCS Superintendent Dr. Ed Nichols thanked Knights of Columbus and said the organization “generously presented our district’s Special Education program with checks totaling over $15,000 from their Tootsie Roll 5K and other fundraisers. These dedicated community members have contributed more than $50,000 over the years to support our special needs programs.”
Knights of Columbus thanked the City of Madison for permission to stage the run; Madison Police Department for supporting the race; and individuals who previously participated.
“Our effort is to support Madison schools’ intellectual disabilities programs. Know that by participating, you are contributing to your local community,” according to Knights of Columbus. “If you cannot participate, please do consider offering a donation. Every little bit helps!”
Founded in 1882, Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal organization, whose core values are charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.
For more information, visit runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Madison/KofCTootsieRoll5K.