The 3rd Annual Shebango Dirts Classic 5K & 8-Mile Run/Walk (formerly The Matthew Perna Freedom 5K)

When: September 28, 2024, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with 8AM Runners’ Registration. 

Where: The Erie Canal Bar & Grille, 285 East High Street Extension, Sharpsville, PA 16150.

Registration opens:  8AM
Kids Fun Run:  9:15AM.
5K and 8-Mile Race:  9:45AM

Timer: Runners High
Awards Ceremony: 11:30AM
50/50, Chinese Auction, Band, Food: 12:00PM

We’ve added the 8-Mile Run/Walk in addition to the 5K, and the event will also feature a Chinese Auction, Raffles, Food, Music, and Kids’ Activities.

This year’s course will start at the event site (Erie Canal Grille), turning left onto Hickory Street through Sharpsville’s beautiful historical district, then making a left onto North Mercer Avenue, and then left onto the Trout Island Trail. 

5K runners will run out and back to the water/aid station, where they will turn around, and head back to the start/finish line. 

The eight-milers will run out through the remainder of the trout Island Trail, making a left at the very end onto a beautiful 2.5-mile loop with views of Shenango Lake.

The course will be groomed and well-marked with fresh white blazes.  5K runners will be running on pavement only.  

Attention 8-milers!  Keep in mind that you will be running the additional 2.5 mile of trail that may have some wet spots and mud, so you might want to wear that old pair of road shoes or trail/road hybrids. The course is very runnable with very little elevation.

Anyone who knew Matt Perna would describe him as charismatic, loving, kindhearted, with an absolute heart of gold. Matt had a way of connecting with people of all walks of life, no matter their story or background. He held no judgment of others and embraced people in every journey they were going through. 

When Matt was 2, he had an incredible fascination with the American flag. He would seek them out everywhere he went. This continued into adulthood. Matt was brilliant in so many ways and had a massive collection of books. He traveled the world and made amazing friendships while doing so. He was adventurous, loved learning, and appreciated holistic health. 

Matt had a love for running that only runners would understand. His friends and family wanted to honor his memory, and what better way to do so than by running through the city of Sharpsville and the gorgeous Trout Island Trails! 

Those of you who cannot join us locally can run ANYWHERE virtually and upload your selfie (with T-shirt, time and upload to our Facebook group).

Matt fed his spirit and soul by running countless miles on as much of the world's landscape.  It was through running he found release and peace. It was also through running he found yet another way to connect with others.

Thank you for participating in Matt’s run!