YMCA Holding 5K Next Month

The will hold a 5K race next month in hopes of attracting men, women and children to running.

Rebecca Barnes, marketing director for the Eastside Y, said the 5K will be held on April 21, beginning at the YMCA branch on Taylors Road. The route go from the Y, down Brushy Creek Road, past, and loop back through the neighborhood back to the Y. The run/walk is 3.1 miles.

"This is a great opportunity for first time runners to experience a
race environment without the intimidation factor while also offering
experienced racers a mostly flat, fast course to log a quick race time," Barnes said.

Children 10 and under can participate in the "Fun Run," which will be one lap around the upper track at the Eastside YMCA.

All participants in the Fun Run will receive a medal, with the three top male and female finishers in the 13-17, 18-34, 25-29, 30-34 and the 65 and older age groups will receive medals. Gift certificates will also be awarded to the overall top male and female finishers, while the first 100 registered runners will be given t-shirts.

Those registering before April 1 can do so for $20. After that, the cost is $25. Barnes said the 5K will cap off a broader fitness event.

"This will also be the Grand Finale of the Rob's Big Loser challenge
for HIS Radio," Barnes said. "The YMCA of Greenville has partnered with HIS Radio to provide an opportunity for 32 contestants to begin a healthy lifestyle via membership with area YMCAs. All these contestant will work for 12 weeks towards losing weight, eating healthy, and creating new, life giving habits like running. Many of these people have health issues already and have difficulty being physically active. At the 5K race, there will be a grand celebration of their efforts when the winner is announced."