JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The annual Runnin’ O’ The Green will get to continue their tradition on St. Patrick’s Day March 17th.

Started 40 years ago, the run has become well known in Jamestown and the state of North Dakota. Event founder Larry Knoblich says when they first started the run, it was for fun and nothing more.

Now, the run raises funds for Elks Camp Grassick and local cancer patients. Larry says in the event’s history, they’ve been able to donate over $300,000 to Elks Camp Grassick and nearly $100,000 to local cancer patients.

Knoblich says this year, they’d love to raise $40,000 to commemorate their 40th year. Knoblich says he believes the event is one of the biggest economic impacts for Jamestown.

Last year, over 1,700 runners participated and Knoblich says he’s proud of all the participation and what they’ve been able to do with the money raised.

The Runnin’ O’ The Green is set for March 17th at 2 PM and will consist of 11 bars. Participants are encouraged to preregister before the run at Wildside Creations. Cost is $30 and includes a T-shirt. You can find pictures and video from the 39th Annual Run here.

You can listen to a full interview with Larry Knoblich below: