Organizers of the CASA 5K and 10K walk and run this Saturday are confident they've designed a course that will please everyone, from families to accomplished racers.
But if they're truly successful, those participants will also leave with a better awareness of the problems faced by many children in Carson City and the volunteers who try to help them.
"We're doing this to raise awareness in the community for the good work CASA volunteers do," said Ron Knecht, a Court Appointed Special Advocate board member.
Those 21 volunteers are currently helping 69 children, several of whom have been removed from their homes and are in foster care.
Registration for the event, which winds through streets on the city's west side, will begin at 9 a.m., with the 5- and 10-kilometer events (3.1 and 6.2 miles) both starting at 10 a.m. from Longview Park. The course also finishes at Longview Park.
Entry is free for kids under 12, and $10 for people age 12 and up.
"We're hoping to see a lot of kids and families and serious runners," said Knecht, one of several people who planned the event.
The course, which features only one hill and includes dramatic views of Carson City, is sponsored by the Nevada Appeal, Michael Hohl Motor Co., Carson Station hotel & Casino, Carl's Imaging Works, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Colonial Bank and Casino Fandango.
If you go
What: CASA 5K/10K run/walk
When: Registration 9 a.m., race begins 10 a.m. Saturday
Where: Longview Park. To get to the park, go west on King Street 1.3 miles from Division, turn north on Longview, then drive three blocks to Bristol. The park is on the right.
sign ups: Entry is free for those under 12, and $10 for others. T-shirts are available for purchase for $20, with proceeds going to CASA.