A 40-year fundraising tradition will bring runners and walkers of all ages to Riverbank to kick off the annual Cheese and Wine Expo weekend next week.
Sign-ups and pre-registration are still being conducted online for the Saturday, Oct. 8 race. More information is available at runforthecheese.com or by calling race director Bruce Edwards at 209-869-1830, or e-mailing him at bwecoach@gmail.com.
The race raises money to support both the Riverbank High School cross country and track programs and ShadowChase Running Club in Modesto, sponsors of the event.
According to Edwards, RHS uses its share to provide transportation, room and food for competing athletes. ShadowChase supports youth training programs throughout the county. This includes clothing and shoes and entry fees as well as donating $500 scholarships to area high schools.
After registration/check-in from 6:15 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. on Oct. 8, the 5k walk and run and the 10k run will begin at 8 a.m. sharp, Edwards said. The races begin and end near Galaxy Luxury+ Theaters, on Jackson Avenue.
A free kids fun run starts at 9:30 a.m., after the course is clear, Edwards added.
He described the 5k course as gently rolling residential, tree-lined streets. The 10k has similar streets, with a bonus hill on the run.
Edwards pointed out that walkers are welcome on the 5k but not the 10k course. Baby strollers are welcome on the 10k for runners pushing, said Edwards.
All Early Bird runners who pre-register will receive a T-shirt in the size of their choice. Sizes cannot be guaranteed for later registrants.
Fees for kids, up to age 17, running will be $15. Adult fees, for those 18 and over, are $30 through race day morning.
Winners who place first overall, male and female, in the 5k and 10k will receive a trophy and cheese.
The top three places in each age division (male and female) in these age group categories: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80+ will receive medals.
Computerized timing equipment will be provided by the ShadowChase Running Club. All registered runners will become eligible for the raffle prize drawing at the end of the races, Edwards said. Results and awards ceremonies are to follow each race.
Edwards is a retired RHS teacher and cross country coach and continues to support high school athletic activities. Also, he still coaches the school’s tennis team.
He said it takes about 70 volunteers to put the races on each year, which started in 1977. There was a break in 2001 and 2002 because of insurance issues, but the event has persevered for some 40 years, he said.
