Everyone is encouraged to “Come Run, Walk, or Eat!” at the fourth annual Derby Dash 5K and Fun Walk on Saturday, May 10 at Derbyshire.
All proceeds from registration fees and breakfast ticket sales will benefit the Foothills Humane Society and Go Girls and Go Guys running clubs at Polk Central Elementary.
Last year’s race raised over $2,000 for the two groups.
“The Derby Dash is the main source of funding for the running clubs at Polk Central. With the money raised, we are able to pay for other race registrations during the year and purchase the supplies we need. Some of the children don’t own running shoes, and it allows us to help with that as well,” said coach Julie Carroll.
Beginning in the fall of 2010, Go Girls had less than 20 members. They have now added Go Guys and are helping over 50 kids this year.
The timed 5K trail race will begin at 9 a.m. Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female, as well as the top male and female finisher in each age category.
The one-mile Fun Walk will begin immediately after the 5K start and will follow a path around the private 33-acre lake. Strollers and well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome on the walk.
An oatmeal bar breakfast will be served from 9-11 a.m. Breakfast is included for all race participants, and additional tickets are available for purchase for friends and family. Individual breakfast tickets may sell out on the day of the race, so friends and family are encouraged to plan ahead and pre-purchase tickets.
In addition to the race and breakfast, the Foothills Humane Society “On the Road Crew” will be on hand with several dogs that are available for adoption. Most years of the race, at least one dog has been adopted by race attendees or a family member of an attendee.
“We know the Foothills Humane Society requires a large budget, but we want to make sure that we do what we can to help. It’s incredible when we’re not only able to give them a donation, but we’re also able to help in finding a home for one of their animals,” said Jennifer Dennis, Derby Dash race director.
The event, which is presented by Derbyshire, is open to individuals of all ages. To register or find out more details for the event visit www.DerbyDash5K.com, call 828-863-2660 or email info@DerbyDash5K.com. Registration fees for the 5K and Fun Walk include breakfast and a t-shirt.