Annual 'Run The Pines For Canines' 5K Race Coming Up In October

It’s not too early to register for the annual ‘Run the Pines for Canines’ 5k race to be held on Sunday, Oct. 26.

The popular event - now in its third year - will kick off at 9 a.m., rain or shine. All of the proceeds will to the Associated Humane Societies’ Popcorn Park Zoo in Lacey, said race director Justin Rand on the event’s Facebook page.

The event was moved from June to October to make it more comfortable for the animals, Rand said.

“While our human participants seemed to enjoy the warmth of the June sun over the last two years, our four-legged friends were much less enthusiastic about the heat,” he said. “ As most animal lovers will understand, we prioritized the requests of the animals, deciding to move this year’s event into the fall to take advantage of the cool autumn breezes.”

The event will feature chip-timing, race T-shirts, post-race chair massages and free entry into the Popcorn Park Zoo.

Participants can register online at http://randj6.wix.com/rp49-5k or on the day of the race at the Bamber Lakes Fire Company at 2630 Lacey Road in Forked River.

“We are looking forward to another exciting morning filled with laughs, barks, and fun,” Rand said. “The race is open to all fitness levels, so whether you run, walk, jog, or simply want to cheer at the finish line, we’d be happy to have you join us on October 26!”