FishHawk area residents and all runners and enthusiasts are gearing up for the race that has now become not only an annual staple within the community, but a much-respected sporting event.
Organized by the FishHawk Road Runners Club, the 17th annual FishHawk Road Race is scheduled for Saturday, March 1 at 5:30 p.m. and will consist of a chip-timed 5K and a kid’s race starting at 5 p.m. at FishHawk Ranch Park Square located at 16144 Churchview Dr., in Lithia. The popular evening event caters to all ages and athletic abilities and boasts of a chip-timed and scenic course enjoyable for all.
“The Twilight Run and post-race concert especially helped breathe new life into this tradition,” said Newland Communities Marketing Coordinator, Lynda McMorrow. More than 600 runners of all skill-levels participated in the races in 2013, including the 5K and kids’ 1-mile fun run. But according to organizers, the race is much more than just running as it brings together the community, families and athletes who have made the race an annual tradition for the past decade and a half. “The race continues to be a perfect forum to benefit our area schools,” McMorrow said. “It’s all about supporting the students at Bevis, FishHawk Creek, and Stowers Elementary, along with Randall and Barrington Middle Schools and Newsome High School.”
Last year $3,400 went to each school while the FishHawk Road Runners running club also received $1,000 toward its annual scholarship. The race also enjoys the support of many volunteers eager to provide the runners with whatever is needed to pull off a successful completion, both running and walking.
Awards are to be given to the top male and female runners in the 5K race, as well as the top three in each age group and all kids receive commemorative ribbons. After the event, participants enjoy music from a live band, giveaways, food and refreshments.
Pre-race packet pick-up is available on Friday, January 28 at Hit The Trails Running store located at 13433 FishHawk Blvd. from 1-7 p.m.
Registration for adults is $25. The kid’s half-mile race is $15. Registration closing date is Friday, February 28 at 12 Midnight. For more information, visit www.hitthetrails.com.
