R U Running?

Hundreds of runners, walkers, kid-pushers, and even dogs are expected to take part Saturday morning in the fourth annual Avondale 5K race.
First run in 2010, local restaurateur Skipper Condon founded the race in honor of his late brother Stevie, and proceeds will be donated to the Charles Webb Center, a non-profit daycare for children with developmental disabilities and special needs ages 6-10.
Stevie Condon attended the daycare as a child. Skipper wanted to help the center years later after some of its public had been cut. The center is located on Evergreen Road, behind Bessinger’s Barbecue.
Last year, 450 racers registered, some in teams sponsoring specific children, and close to $50,000 was raised. The goal for this year, according to race spokesperson Holly Clayson, is to increase the racers to 500 and to double the money.
While the race begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at Triangle Char & Bar, which Condon owns, the restaurant will host registration the day before from 4-7 p.m. at its 828 Savannah Hwy. location. For $30, participants will receive a bib, a T-shirt, and entrance to the post-race party
Last minute registration will open an hour before race time, but the price will increase to $35. Those just wanting to attend the party portion can donate $20.
Race organizers are requesting that participants, where possible, ride their bikes to the event, and if they must drive, avoid parking along the raceway or in illegal spots.
The course, available at avondale5k.com, snakes through several nearby streets and neighborhoods. Photos of kids being sponsored are available on the website, too; and once you see Leroy and his smile, you’ll get out your running shoes and checkbook.
 
For more information visit www.avondale5k.com.