There’s still time to register for Running of the Elk race this Sunday

There won't be any running elk, but there will be plenty of walkers and runners from Elk Grove turning out for the  second annual Kaiser Permanente Running of the Elk in this weekend. Some 2,000 walkers and runners are expected to take part in a Half Marathon, Two-Person Relay or Thrive 5K. There is still time for you to join them and help to raise money for the Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation, providing scholarships for children in need to participate in sports leagues. A scholarship will cover most of the necessary expenses and allow every child an opportunity to participate in sports.

"Youth sports can make an incredible difference in a child's life - mentally, emotionally, socially, and perhaps most importantly, physically. We know active children are healthy children. The Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation steps in to help families in need afford the fees for uniforms and gear,” said Gary Davis, Mayor of Elk Grove and founder of the race. “We want to be a city that benefits kids and builds community and we believe the Running of the Elk event, with all of its incredible sponsors, helps to do that."

The Running of the Elk provides a flat and fast course and will wind walkers and runners through the Laguna Ridge community in Elk Grove. The race begins and ends at the Elk Grove Auto Mall. This is a great event for families and first-time runners.

Kaiser Permanente is a title sponsor of the event. The race fits the health system’s mission of Live Well, Be Well, Thrive.

"Kaiser Permanente stands for healthy communities and we think events like the Running of the Elk are a perfect fit with our mission," said Richard Isaacs, MD Physician-in-Chief, Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento area.  "One of the greatest benefits of physical activity is that it contributes to overall health.  No matter the level, everyday we see the advantages of a regular fitness routine, including a healthy heart, a healthy weight and lower blood pressure."

Running of the Elk event details:

Sunday, April 7, 2013
Elk Grove Auto Mall
8590 Laguna Grove Drive Elk Grove, CA
8:00 a.m. - Half Marathon and Relay
8:30 a.m. - Thrive 5K
For more information, visit: www.runningoftheelkhalf.com