‘The shortest great time ever’ — the St. Patty’s Day .01K — benefits La Crosse’s Hunger Task Force

The world’s shortest run/walk may lack distance at only 32.8 feet, but the effects of the event stretch much farther in the community.  

The 20^th annual St. Paddy’s Day .01K happens at 3 p.m. March 15 on Pearl Street, downtown, between 3^rd and 4^th streets.

It’s put on by 95.7 The Rock. 

While everyone is wearing green, enjoying a green beer, and having a fun time, there is a purpose behind the event.  

The money raised from the ticket sales goes to support the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse — the only food bank between Madison and Rochester.

HTF executive director Shelly Fortner said that it’s a great time to come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and show support for those in need.  

Through the community and radio station coming together, she says they’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars to support the work the Hunger Task Force does.  

“The Hunger Task Force is the only free and local food bank, and we rely on community in a lot of ways,” Fortner said. “We have the Kane Street Community Garden, we have the food recovery programs serving 120 food pantries, meal sites, youth programs.

“So, donations like this, support like this, means everything.”

She added that everything that surrounds the event is amazing, culminating in what she described as “the shortest great time ever.” 

That portion of Pearl Street is blocked off for the event.  

People can preregister through the Around River City to get e-tickets and choose their t-shirt size.  

On March 15, check-in and onsite registration begins at 3 p.m. with the big race happening at 6 p.m.