Runners Take to the Tarmac for the Annual Stinger 5K at the 180th
Toledo, Ohio - September 1, 2025
The 180th Fighter Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard will host its annual Stinger 5K on Sunday, September 7, 2025, welcoming the public to run on the base’s flight line for a one-of-a-kind community event. The race, which has drawn over a thousand participants in previous years, offers a unique opportunity for runners and their families to experience the energy of a military installation while promoting fitness and community engagement.
The exclusive course begins and ends at the base's solemn 9/11 Memorial, a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation. Runners will then continue onto the Stinger tarmac, running past stationary F-16 Fighting Falcon jets, providing an up-close and personal view of the very aircraft the 180th Fighter Wing flies to defend our homeland. This unique route allows participants to be fully immersed in the mission and history of the base.
The Stinger 5K is more than just a race; it’s a tribute to the men and women who serve and a way for the Wing to give back to the community that supports it. The event's mission is rooted in the 180th Fighter Wing's core values: to provide for America, protect the homeland, and support their families and the local community. The race fosters a stronger bond between the military and its neighbors by giving the public an exclusive look into the base's operations and heritage.
The event will also feature a children's race, post-race activities, and an impressive jet takeoff demonstration, allowing participants to witness the raw power and precision of the F-16s firsthand. The roar of the engines as the jets take to the sky is a highlight for many, serving as a powerful conclusion to a day of patriotism and pride.
About the 180th Fighter Wing
The 180th Fighter Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard provides a highly trained and mission-ready force to protect our nation's interests at home and abroad. With a long-standing commitment to community engagement, the 180th Fighter Wing is proud to support local events and organizations that strengthen the region.
Contact Information:
Clint McCormick
Race Director
(419) 356-4881
Craig Rummell
Head of Marketeing
(4914) 844-4744write a
