MITCHELLVILLE, Iowa — The Mitchellville Firefighter Association held its annual Mitchellville Fire Department 5k race on Saturday morning, but it looks a little different than your normal track.

The 5k differs from other races in that it has challenges stationed along the route to simulate firefighting activities.

“So, you do different crawls, you go through foam stations, fire hose reels. It’s definitely unique, for sure,” said Frank Klassen, the three-time first-place runner of the Mitchellville Fire Department 5k.

Matt Cleverley, the Deputy Chief of the Mitchellville Fire Department and Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Mitchellville, said that the race wouldn’t happen without the community’s support.

“Events like this are only possible in Maryville because of so much community involvement. Our fire department, our firefighters association, and the Parks and Rec worked very well together,” Cleverley said.

Bill Roberts, a member of the Mitchellville Fire Department Association, said that the 5k helps raise funds for the Mitchellville Fire Department.

“The firefighter association raises money and donates it to the fire department for things that that aren’t in their regular budget throughout the year. Usually, lifesaving equipment and things like that.” Roberts said.