The online pre-registration deadline has passed for this year’s Run for the Cheese race series, but race day enrollments will be open until just before the first event starts.
The races start at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, and the early morning run has served as the kick-off for the Cheese and Wine Exposition since it began, in 1977.
The race is organized by the ShadowChase Running Club of Modesto, and benefits the Riverbank High cross country and track running programs, as well as others in Stanislaus County.
Race day registration and packet pick-up start at 6:15 a.m. at Galaxy Theatres, in the east parking lot, and ends promptly at 7:50 a.m., according to organizers.
That first event, a 5K walk/run and 10K run, start at 8 a.m., on Jackson Street. The races loop around the neighborhood, ending with a stretch down the rear of the theatre building.
At 9:30 a.m., the Youth (under 19) runs starts and a free kids 300 meter fun run starts for youth ages 7 and under.
Race officials note that, while walkers and baby strollers are welcome on the 5K course, walkers are prohibited on the 10K race, but baby strollers can be used if running during the race.
Officials say all participants will receive a medal.
For the 5K and 10K races a trophy and cheese will be presented to first place overall male and female racers.
Medals will go to the top three places in each age division, both males and females: 12 & under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80+.
The Youth 1-Mile racers will receive medals in the top three places in each age division: 7 & under, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15, and 16-17.
In the Kids Fun Run, complimentary medals will go to all finishers.
Post-race refreshments will be provided by organizers. And Port-a-Potties will not be seen, they said, since the Galaxy has offered to open up their indoor restrooms for the event.
Results and awards ceremonies will be held following each race.
The Run for the Cheese races are the fourth in a series put on by ShadowChase each year. They also include the Modesto Marathon in March, the Modesto Memorial Classic in May, and the Escalon Park Fete Run/Walk in July.
More information and additional race details are available at www.runforthecheese.com, according to Race Director Bruce Edwards.
