Race to benefit Safe Grad Night

Organizers of Carson High School's annual Safe Grad Night are hoping to run into some success with its first Safe & Sober 5K next month.

"So far, we've gotten some really good feedback," said Brenda Collings, co-president of the Safe Grad committee. "I'm anticipating it just being a fun event. I'm excited for it."

The 5-kilometer race will replace the traditional golf tournament as a fundraiser for the sober celebration after Carson High School's graduation.

"The golf tournament is more of a selective crowd," Collings explained. "Everybody can run or walk or push a stroller."

And the timing was right, she said, to host the event along with Kaia F.I.T.

"It seems there are more people getting fit and doing races," she said. "It's just a really neat trend and we wanted to get involved with that."

The entry fee is $30 until April 2, then $35 up until race day on April 9. The race will begin at 9 a.m. at Third and Curry streets.

The Firkin & Fox will provide complimentary breakfast for runners as well as a brunch for supporters and spectators.

The sober night, which began 23 years ago, features a variety of activities at the Carson City Community Center. It culminates with a bus trip to Discovery Kingdom Six Flags in Vallejo, Calif.

This is Collings' fourth year on the committee.

"My whole philosophy is this is a chance to prevent a tragedy," she said. "We're definitely protecting these kids from going out and having an alcohol-related death or accident. My whole intention is just to help the kids stay safe."

The sober grad night costs about $40,000 to host each year. With a limit of 350 participants in the race, it could raise around $10,000.

At the race, prizes will be handed out for winners in each division. There also will be prizes for the best Carson Blue Spirit costume that shows Senator pride.

There will be music and sponsors' booths as well.