Another year — another chance to prepare and to participate in the Fair Lakes 8k and 2k Fun Run/Walk. So strap up those running shoes, and get ready to hustle.
"We are sponsoring the race this year to help crash route charity organizations such as the Keller Center ... every year we have a lot of sucess," said Zach David, race director from Peterson Companies.
The race, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 10, is in its 20th year.
Last 1,000 runners and 300 walkers and raised over $30,000 for the Inova Keller Center. The center is a non-profit organization established in 1992 to provide care for people with mental health and substance abuse issues.
"The Keller Center does a tremendous work, it is a need that is great and growing. It's really good to see a local organization doing great work ," said Rick Peterson, Peterson Comapines.
To aid the further work of the Inova Keller Center's Capital Campaign, the new facility built to meet the needs of the community, the sponsors of the Fair Lakes race, The Peterson Companies, pledged last year to grant the Fair Lakes 8k Race proceeds to the Inova Keller Center for an accelerated three to four years.
"The proceed money was very helpful in building the Capital Campaign building ... the money from this year will be put towards creating a state of the art environment to better serve the needs of our community. Furthermore, the money will enable us to expand our services to the community to meet the increasing demands for the children and the mentally disabled," said Rich Leichtweis, director of Keller Center.
An award ceremony will be held shortly after the race. The grand prize of $100, a trophy and other prizes will be awarded to the top finisher in each division; male, female, wheelchair, and children. Second and third-place finishers will receive $50 and $25, respectively, with other prizes.
Furthermore, the top finishing team, and the top finishing runner for the various age divisions will also receive prizes ranging from trophies to cash prizes. Spectators will also be awarded prizes for their ongoing support and enthusiasm.
The race is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. at 12500 Fair Lakes Circle in Fairfax. Registration is $25 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under, however, the race fee is tax deducible.
The registration packet pick up will be held on Saturday Sept.1 and Sunday Sept. 2 at Fair Lakes circle.
To register for the race or for more information visit www.fairlakes8k.com.or call 703-871-0400.
For more information regarding the Keller Center visit www.inova.org.