Calabasas Classic to run Sunday

The Calabasas Classic returns to the community this Sunday, and organizers say registration for the annual charity run is at an all-time high.

The Classic, headlined by 5K and 10K races, will begin at the new Calabasas Civic Center at 8 a.m. Nov. 9. The event benefits the Talbert Family Foundation, which offers financial support to families affected by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

"It's gotten so huge," said Julie Talbert of the foundation. "I don't know what happened or what we did different. I don't know if the planets aligned or what, but we are 270 ahead in registration than where we were at this point last year."

Almost 1,200 runners had registered as of Monday. Talbert said they usually get at least 250 more registrants during the last week.

"I'm not sure if it's the race's reputation, but it's great," Talbert said. "This is my baby. And it's going to be lots of fun with so many people."

Talbert said she expects to bring in at least $50,000, which will be distributed to families in need.

Some families will use the event as a jogathon to raise additional money. There is also a group running to support Manhattan Beach police officer Mark Vasquez, who needs advanced treatment to fight multiple myeloma.

Runners will head north on Park Sorrento then along Calabasas Parkway to Park Granada. After heading south on Park Granada, the racers will turn right on Park Capri and run through Calabasas Park. Runners will turn left on Park Siena, left on Park Ora to Park Sorrento past Calabasas Lake before a short climb up Park Granada to Parkway Calabasas. The 10K runners will turn at the library and complete a second loop.

Both races are sanctioned and certified by USA Track & Field.

Late registration will be from noon to 5 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at King's Fish House in Calabasas. Runners can also register from 6 to 7:45 a.m. the day of the event at The Expo, 23975 Park Sorrento.

The 5K race starts at 8 a.m. and the 10K at 9 a.m. The family run will begin at 10:30 a.m. Everyone in the two races will receive a finisher's medal.

The Talbert Family Foundation provides direct financial support to local families with members suffering from catastrophic illnesses, primarily cancer. The foundation searches out families that need financial assistance and provides funds, with no strings attached, through a program called "TFF Kids."