Jester Jog no laughing matter

It's called the Jester Jog. But Erin Lehman takes it very seriously.

"It helps us to ensure that we have good quality programs at the Children's Museum," she said. "We can bring in new exhibits so that we can always have something new and exciting for the children."

For the sixth year, the Jester Jog on Saturday will raise money for the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada with a quarter-mile fun run for kids 6 and under, a two-mile walk for the entire family, and a two-mile and a 10-kilometer competitive run.

As a part-time fitness instructor at Nevada Fitness, a mother of three and a member of the museum's board of directors, Lehman began organizing the jog three years ago.

"I jumped in with both feet and hit the ground running," she said.

For the past two years, she has raised $5,000 through the event and hopes to raise more this year.

She said all participants will enjoy the walk, regardless of fitness level.

"It can be really competitive or something the whole family does together," she said. "My 4-year-old is going to do the two-mile walk with us. Some people walk fast, and some just stroll."

An awards banquet and raffle prizes will follow the 8 a.m. race at the Pinon Plaza and Resort.

In addition to raising money for the museum, Lehman said the Jester Jog provides countless benefits for children and their families.

"It's good for kids to get out and do some hiking and walking. It's promoting exercise and healthy living and being together as a family," she said. "It's incorporating everything good."

Race applications are available at Fleet Feet Sports or The Children's Museum. For additional information, call Fleet Feet Sports at 883-3361 or The Children's Museum at 884-2226.

If you go:

What: Jester Jog

When: 8 a.m. Saturday

Where: Pinon Plaza and Resort.

Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.