Join us July 1 for the Experience Independence 5K in historic Batesville. We have important changes in 2023, as we shift from the Fourth of July to the first weekend in July. As we mark our nation's hard-won independence, we also join the local community in fond memory of Byron Difani. All proceeds from the race will go to the Byron Difani Memorial Scholarship Fund, to help local students just like those he had served so long and so well as educator, principal, and booster until illness took him. In conjunction with our competitive race, we also offer a "memorial walk" for an untimed procession for those not trained to race but wishing to honor his memory. We also have a donation-only option. Entry fee is $30.

We will have a special T-shirt for all entrants registered as of June 15, with overstock available on first come, first served basis thereafter until supply runs out. We will have finishers medals for timed participants, and special awards for Top 3 Overall Men, Top 3 Overall Women, Top 3 Masters (age 40+) Men, and Top 3 Masters Women. We plan top 3 medals in 10-year age groups.

The course starts at Batesville Community Center and Aquatics and finishes at Riverside Park. We will have packet pickup at the center Friday, June 30, 4-7 p.m., and race day registration there 6:45-7:30 a.m.

The City of Batesville Parks Department provides your welcome site and awards venue. White River Health and Centennial Bank are major presenting sponsors in cooperation with the Experience Independence program of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.