The first Mayfaire 5K was held on May 9, 1981.  It was the product of Rob Mason's love for the arts and running.  The course used was three laps around Lake Morton with the requisite overlap.  Mark Sheehan from Gainesville beat Keith Brantly by one second and won in 16:36.  April Fry from Kinneley, N.J. was the female winner in 21:22.

The course changed ~ 1985 to one that went east to Lakeland High, down to Hollingsworth, along the north shore, up Success, out to Florida Ave. for a few blocks, and back to Morton at the green pavilion on the south shore.  There were a record 137 finishers that year.

Somewhere in the early 90s, it was changed to a night race and participation soared.

This year there were over 1000 runners participating in the 30th running of the race.

Lakeland Runners Club Inc. Mission Statement:: To promote running and fitness for runners of all ages and abilities in the community through fellowship, education and formal & informal running events. Monthly meetings are open to all Lakeland Runners Club members and guests. Our meetings are held on the second Thursday evening of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Youth and Family Center of the Lakeland YMCA, Cleveland Heights Blvd., Lakeland. Informative speakers provide excellent information on an enhancing your running. Food and beverages are provided.