Registration is open for the Challenger Learning Center 5K, coming up on March 31st.

The Challenger Learning Center is in the ideal place for running, according to Executive Director Susan Jonason. She says it's in a quiet neighborhood that's easy to get to from I-95, and there's plenty of parking for runners and spectators. The Space Race is a great chance for folks to enjoy a community run, while raising money for the center's STEM-based programs.

Each runner will be given a custom-made medallion produced by Challenger's 3-D printer, and there will be awards for the fastest runner in each age category. New this year will be a youth category, for runners to the age of 14, so the kids can take part too. Jonason says prizes from area businesses will be given away in random drawings, along with some cool space-themed items from the center. In addition, everyone gets a NASA tote bag filled with gifts for participating in the race.

'Lift-off' is at 10:15 on March 31st for the race that will wind around the neighborhood surrounding Challenger Learning Center's location at 30 Venture Way in Bangor. Find more information on the center's website and Facebook page.

Challenger Learning Center uses space exploration as a theme and mission simulations as a vehicle for STEM-based education.

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