Running for a cause

Published 12:20 am Friday, October 21, 2011

In conjunction with the annual Smoke on the Water in downtown Washington this weekend, there will be two races open to runners and walkers, children and adults.

Lifestyles Medical Fitness Center is hosting a 5K event, and Washington (noon) Rotary is hosting a Polio Plus 10K event Saturday.

Both races will begin and end on the Washington waterfront. Registration at the N.C. Estuarium begins at 7 a.m., and the races start at 8 a.m. Both courses parallel the Pamlico River and encompass some of the area’s most historic neighborhoods.

The events welcome a wide range of participants — from competitive runners to families with children. Both races are not just about competing, they’re about having fun and promoting healthier lifestyles within the community. Proceeds from the Lifestyles 5K will fund wellness scholarships, and the Washington (noon) Rotary will fund Polio Plus from proceeds raised by its 10K event.

To preregister for a race, visit www.ecrun.org. The preregistration fee for the Lifestyles race is $20 a person, and the registration fee the day of the race will be $25 a person. Youths 16 years old or younger may register for $15 a person. A T-shirt is included with the registration fee and will be distributed the day of the race. Specific T-shirt sizes are guaranteed to preregistered participants. The preregistration fee for the Polio Plus race is $25 a person, and the registration fee on race day is $30 a person. Youths 18 years old or younger may register for $15 a person.

A T-shirt is included with the registration fee and will be distributed on the day of the race.

For more information, contact Judy VanDorp (Lifestyles) at 252-975-4236 or Paige Harris (Polio Plus) at 252-945-5748.