There will be no 5K race in Piney Orchard this spring, but running enthusiasts still may have a chance to run informally on the day of the community's street festival on May 12. 

Residents learned this week that there would be no organized race, which in the past has raised money for new technologies at Piney Orchard Elementary School (POES).

"There is is no POES running festival this year," said Piney Orchard Elementary School teacher Sharon Layman, who has put together the event in the past. "I have organized it myself all the past years and didn't have the time to devote to it this year. We may have it again next year."

The POES 5K was generally well-received by runners in 2011 due to its scenic route through the Piney Orchard Nature Preserve and the challenging changes in elevation.

Officials from the Piney Orchard Running Club, which hosts informal runs and workouts for residents in the community, said they hoped to host a large social run instead. Club President Clay Anderson said the club is eyeing 8 a.m. on May 12, which is also the day of the Piney Orchard Street Festival.

For those runners still looking for a competitive race, there are several 5K runs coming up in the area. Local runs include these four races in the next couple of weeks.

Fort Meade Earth Day 5K

When: April 21, check-in at 7 a.m.
Where: Fort Meade, Burba Park
Cost: $25

Details: The Fort Meade running series gets started for this season with this run, which is open to the public.

America's VetDogs 5K

When: April 22, check-in at 7:30 a.m.
Where: Quiet Waters Park, Annapolis
Cost: $20 for military, $30 for civilians

Details: Supports VetDogs, a group that provides guide dogs, service dogs and military therapy dogs for veterans.

Bates' Arts in Motion 5K

When: April 28, check-in at 8 a.m.
Where: Bates Middle School track, Annapolis
Cost: $20 for ages 19 and up, $15 for 18 and under, free for Bates Middle School students

Details: Weaves through the Murray Hill neighborhood and along Spa Creek.

Jones Elementary School Run for Technology

When: April 28, check-in at 7 a.m.
Where: 122 Hoyle Ln., Severna Park
Cost: $35 for the 5K, or $15 for the kids' Feisty Fun Run

Details: Goes to support new educational technology, with a portion going toward the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.