RunIt 5K—White Lake

White Lake Nutrition is hosting the 2024 RunIt (Run White Lake) 5K, with proceeds going toward Hope Squad in our local schools.  See more information below regarding the scholarship, Hope Squad, and Ava's story).

The 3.1-mile course starts and ends at the White Lake Chamber Depot (124 W Hanson, Whitehall, MI) and follows the beautiful Montague-Hart bike trail north, traveling between the two towns that make up the White Lake Area – Montague and Whitehall! Enjoy the gorgeous scenery and flat course, which is great for first-timers and those wanting to post their best times!  The race offers chip-timing, performance t-shirts, giveaways and medals, and prizes in all categories.

Race Day Welcome & FAQ’s

A Note from the White Lake Nutrition RunIt 5K Team:  

We are so excited about this year's 5K on Saturday, July 27th! Working within the community we love and alongside a great family with a cause close to many of our hearts has been an incredible experience. The pain and grief that many have felt over the loss of Ava VanderStelt have been tough and real, but we are thankful to work with a family and community who rise up and go after the cause together. Mental health matters and we understand how important it is to help raise awareness in our community and world. The generosity of local businesses, community members, and each race participant has helped to fund mental health resources and we hope that this year’s race will continue to bring hope to our community.

What is the race course? The 3.1-mile course starts and ends at the White Lake Chamber of Commerce Depot (124 W Hanson, Whitehall, MI) and follows the beautiful Montague-Hart bike trail north, traveling between the two towns that make up the White Lake Area – Montague and Whitehall!

Where should I park? Parking is available down Hanson St. at Lions Park (down the road from Chamber), at and around Goodrich Park, and in the North Mears Parking Lot (for GPS purposes, search Mylan’s Waterfront Grille, 115 N Mears in Whitehall). Please do not park at Big John’s Pizza, Napa, or WaterDog Outfitters as they will be open for business that day and we want to be respectful to their employees and customers. Parking will not be available at the Chamber. 

Where are the bathrooms located? There will be porta-johns outside of the Chamber Depot and a public restroom along the path near Montague Foods. There will not be restrooms available inside of the Chamber Depot. 

How many aid stations will there be?  We will have one outside of the Chamber Depot, as well as White Lake Fire Authority available throughout the course. Should a medical emergency arise during the race, please dial 911. 

Are there any good areas for spectators? Spectators can be stationed at the Chamber Depot as the bike path is a public path that will not only have RunIt 5K participants on it but could also include community members who are using it. Also, consider Covell Park near the bridge where parking is available, and behind Trailway Campground and Montague Foods off Spring St. where public parking is available. 

Where is the finish line?  The finish line is exactly where you start at the Chamber Depot. 

Will there be beverages and snacks post-race for participants?  There will be free light snacks, water, and hydration drinks provided to our race participants.  

Where should I pick up my packet? There will be two different pickup times:

—Early Bird Race Packet Pickup - Friday, July 26th from 12:00-5:00 pm @ White Lake Nutrition, 3311 E Colby St Suite E in Whitehall

—Race Day Pick Up -  Saturday, July 27th from 7:30 am-8:30 am. @ White Lake Chamber of Commerce, 124 W Hanson St. in Whitehall

What is the itinerary for the day?

7:30 am—Race Day Registration

8:40 am—Race participants are invited to hear some words from Ava’s family and for community prayer.

8:50 am—Race participants will line up accordingly and our race emcee will start the race.  

10:30 am (tentative)—Awards

Age groups:
Overall Female Winners
Overall Male Winners
Female 8 and under
Male 8 and under
Female 9 to 12
Male 9 to 12
Female 13 to 16
Male 13 to 16
Female 17 to 22,
Male 17 to 22
Female 23 to 30
Male 23 to 30
Female 31 to 40
Male 31 to 40
Female 41 to 50
Male 41 to 50
Female 51 to 60
Male 51 to 60
Female 61 to 70
Male 61 to 70
Over 71 Female
Over 71 Male

Proceeds go towards Hope Squad for our local schools.   Click on "Donate 4 Ava" at the top or bottom of this page for more information on Ava and the Hope Squad.

**If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by dialing 988. They are also available by chat any time at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/.