Published: April 07, 2008 09:11 am            

Area runners gearing up for CASA 5K race

PALESTINE — Area runners and walkers looking for some competitive action, or just a way to help a good cause, may want to lace up their running shoes for the 2nd annual Speak Up For Kids CASA 5K Race at the Story Elementary School.

The event will begin at 8 a.m. on April 12 and will benefit CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Trinity Valley, which provides trained adult volunteers to “give a voice” to abused and neglected children in court and in foster care systems. In addition to raising funds, the organization also hopes to increase public awareness and recruit more volunteers.

The event features a Kids K race as well as a 1K walk and 5K and 10K races, along with family-friendly activities such as face painting, mascots, Blue Bear and the CARE Van, fire engine and the Heart Gallery.

The 5K and 10K race course is certified with chip timing and will begin at 8 a.m. The Kids K and 1K walk will be on a separate course and will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Runners will receive a T-shirt, and all kids who run will receive a medal as they finish. Awards will be presented in each age category.

Cost for the Kids K and the 1K walk is $15 for ages 17 and under or $20 on race day. Cost for the 5K and 10K races is $25 prior to race day or $30 on race day.

Registration forms have been printed in newspaper advertisements for the race. Online registration at www.casa5k.org is planned prior to race day.

For more information, contact Lee Ann Millender at 903-675-7070 (CASA).

The event is sponsored by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Texas, Texas CASA, Charles E. Dickens Fine Jewelry & Gift, Kevin Lilly’s McDonald’s, Ben E. Keith, ETMC Athens, Regions Bank, Whataburger, O’ Sweet Pea, Eilenberger’s Bakery, Jim Parsons Law Offices, David Barnard State Farm Insurance, Brookshire Grocery Company, Franklin Bank, Velvin & Weeks Consulting Engineers, Citizens State Bank, Workco Staffing Service, First State Bank, East Texas National Bank, the Palestine Herald-Press, Boondock Machine Works and CASA of Trinity Valley.

        

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