Hero Rush, the firefighter-themed obstacle course and experience, is coming to Calhoun County Fairgrounds in Marshall, Michigan on June 2.

The 5k race is packed with obstacles aimed to give people a glimpse into the life of a firefighter.

Every quarter mile of the race runners are met with an obstacle such as climbing ladders, sliding down poles, busting through windows and doors, navigating dark tunnels, carrying stretchers and many others. Local firefighters think this event will be beneficial to the community.

“Any activity with motivators is good for people,” John Diehr, captain at the Charter Township of Oakland Fire Department, said.

In addition to Hero Rush raising money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, which honors firefighters killed on 9/11, a local fire-related charity will receive the proceeds from the kid’s firefighter adventure course.

Each event includes an Inferno midway which is open to the community and includes food and beverage vendors, music and more.

This is the first year Hero Rush events are taking place. Eleven events across the country are scheduled for 2012.

Anyone over the age of 14 with parental permission may participate.

“These events are perfect for everyone, from experienced runners looking for a new challenge, to teenagers and college students, to people of all ages who just want to get out and get active,” Christoper Hebert, co-founder of Hero Rush, said.

For families, there are kid’s races and activities, as well as an opportunity to see demonstrations by local fire departments.

Registration is open until May 18. To receive 10 percent off the registration fee, use discount code OaklandPost.  For more information, visit www.herorush.com/events/michigan

—-Contact staff intern Roseann Stricker via email at [email protected]