If you missed the inaugural running of the Shawshank Hustle, mark your calendar now! The Shawshank Hustle returns to Mansfield, Ohio on June 11, 2016 at The Ohio State Reformatory.
The 7K event is open to runners, walkers and those who love the movie, “The Shawshank Redemption,” and will once again begin and end at the Ohio State Reformatory, where much of the movie was filmed in 1993. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. and takes runners/walkers past some of “The Shawshank Redemption” filming sites, including water stop at The Bissman Building, which was the Brewer Hotel in the movie, and another station past Brooks’ Bench in Central Park. “Last year during and after the race, people enjoyed visiting filming sites, taking pictures with character props, and exploring Mansfield,” said Jodie Snavely of the Mansfield/Richland County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The race brought significant economic impact and exposure to the area and we were pleased to help establish the event within the local community and the Shawshank fan community.”
Last year the registration limit was 3,000 participants and quickly sold out. Visitors traveled from 30 states to be part of day and took advantage of Shawshank Packages and lodging at several area hotels. Registration for 2016 is now open and everyone is encouraged to sign up now to avoid getting left out.
The Shawshank Hustle had such a successful first year and organizers intend to grow the experience for participants and spectators. New components this year include two showings of The Shawshank Redemption movie onsite at the actual filming site, the Ohio State Reformatory. Sponsor running shoe manufacturer Saucony and the Shawshank Prison bus will be onsite during the weekend. There will also be an after-party at the Phoenix Brewing Company in downtown Mansfield. For ongoing updates, make sure you visit www.ShawshankHustle.com and become a fan of their Facebook page.
Participants will receive a custom finisher medal, custom event number, commemorative Saucony event shirt, actor meetings, chip timing, chance at custom awards, on-course and post-race snacks and a tour of The Ohio State Reformatory.
According to Roger Bowersock, who operates the nonprofit Rocketship Sports Management, “All proceeds will support the Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society, which operates the prison-turned-museum.”
Registration cost is $45, until January 31. Registration opened Jan. 1 with nearly 700 participants from fourteen states committing to the event already. Registration is open online at the event website, shawshankhustle.com, and will stay open until event capacity of 3,000 is reached. More details about the race, maps, volunteer positions, schedule, sponsorship opportunities and much more are also available on the website. Volunteers are needed for the event with many options available.
Visit Shawshankhustle.com.