Sweetheart 5K Run Benefits Local Organizations

Runners from all over the country are preparing to take to the streets of Gulf Shores Feb. 16 for the 7^th Annual Sweetheart 5K Run and Walk. Sponsored by the L.A. Fleet Feet Running Club, the event raises money for several worthy causes in the area.

Since its inception in 2002, the Sweetheart 5K has raised approximately $50,000 for various civic, charitable and athletic organizations in the area, according to Lee Echols, a current Fleet Feet member and one of the originators of the Sweetheart 5K. Groups such as the Association of Retarded Citizens of Baldwin County, Gulf Coast Arts Council, Boy Scout Troop 49 in Gulf Shores and the Gulf Shores High School and Foley High School track teams have benefited from the proceeds of the race.

“Some runners take it seriously, but the majority of the people come out for the fun and to help raise money for various organizations that depend on community support,” Race Director Bruce Bankston said. “Each year we have been able to continue building the race into major regional running and charity event.”

Trophies will be awarded in numerous age categories ranging from 10 and younger to 75 and older. “It’s a great event for the entire family. We have events for people of all ages,” Bankston said. Previous editions of the race have drawn more than 400 runners from 27 states and Canada, according to Bankston.

In addition to the race itself, there will also be a lively post-race party which will include live music from local favorites Brent Burns and Don Stafford. The post-race party will also include a wide variety of free food and beverages for all who register for the race.

In addition to the 5K race, there will also be a 5K race/walk, and a 1-mile fun run, according to Bankston. “Couples can compete for the sweetheart award based on their combined race time,” he said.

Bankston said along with entry fees, the primary funding source for the grants the group awards are sponsorships. There are three levels of sponsorship ranging from $250 for bronze level to $1,000 for gold level. “We have a limited number of sponsorships still available,” he said. “A sponsorship will get your business name and logo on all race t-shirts and race promotional material. Last year we had approximately 450 people show up on race day and they all were exposed to our sponsors names, products and services numerous times throughout the day.”

The 5k race will begin promptly at 8 a.m. The start/finish line will be located at 200 East First Ave. in Gulf Shores.

Registrations postmarked by Feb. 11 are $15 and should be sent to: L.A. Fleet Feet/Sweetheart Run, P.O. Box 3584, Orange Beach, AL 36561. Late registration will take place on Feb. 15 from 5 until 7 p.m. at the race site, 200 East First Ave. in Gulf Shores. Late registration fee is $20. Bankston said participants may sign up the day of the race from 6:30 until 7:30 a.m. at the race site for a fee of $25.

For more information please contact Bankston at 968-2055 or Club President Billy Thomason at 968-5611. E-mail inquiries to sweetheartrun@aol.com.