Jeff McGowan Memorial 5K

Join in for the 10th Annual Jeff McGowan Memorial Virtual 5K

Participate in the 10th anniversary of this downtown classic race virtually, wherever you are. Celebrate the memory of Jeff McGowan and Mark Dempsey with a virtual 5K or 1-mile trek on your favorite course. For your $20 entry fee, you will be mailed an Irish-themed Jeff McGowan Memorial 5K t-shirt and will receive two free issues of RUNOHIO. Your race shirt will be mailed to you as soon as we print them or by the end of August.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

This year’s race will again honor Mark Dempsey as his name as well as Jeff’s name will be on the back of the race t-shirts. Mark was president of the Columbus Shamrock Club in 2008 where Mark and Jeff first met. Mark died unexpectedly on January 10, 2020.

Remembering Jeff and Mark

"When Mark Dempsey opened Dempsey's Food & Spirits in March 2012, Jeff McGowan was one of his first friends to enjoy a pint of Guinness and take part in the raucous Irish celebration that year. After Jeff passed away Mark made it a point to always have a few of the Jeff McGowan Memorial 5K race pint glasses on hand at Dempsey's for Jeff's family and many friends who stopped in to raise a pint in honor of him. Mark passed away in January but we'd like to think he and Jeff are raising a pint in honor of all the participants in this year's race." - Megan Dempsey, Mark's wife.

Jeff McGowan unexpectedly died on May 26, 2012. Jeff was an active member of the Shamrock Club of Columbus. A 1983 graduate of Circleville High School and a 1990 graduate of Ohio University, Jeff set school records at Circleville High School in the 2.5 mile and 5km cross country events as well as in the 800 meters, 1600 meters and 3200 meters. His senior year Jeff placed 3rd in the Ohio High School Athletic Association Cross Country Championships and was second in the 800 meters and 1600 meters at the OHSAA State Track & Field Championships.

You can donate to the Jeff McGowan Memorial Scholarship Fund during your registration or by clicking here.