Great Race of Agoura Hills off to a running start

ON TRACK- A runner navigates the half-marathon course in last year's Great Race of Agoura Hills.

Officials say approximately 5,000 runners will take to the streets and trails April 5 for the 23rd running of the Dole Great Race of Agoura Hills.

Participants will travel from over 250 cities and 25 different states to join local competitors in one of the premiere running events in the country.

Race officials say the 1,500 slots in the popular Chesebro Half- Marathon have been already pre-sold. There is now a waiting list for the event.

Other races are expecting a record turnout as well: The Old Agoura 10K, recognized by Runner's World magazine as one of the top 10Ks in the country; the Deena Kastor 5K, named for the Olympic marathon bronze medalist who grew up in Agoura Hills; the Double 15K (5K and 10K combo run); the Family Fun Run; and the Camp Keystone Kids Mile, one of the largest youth runs in California.

The always popular race buffet includes fruit, pizza, pancakes, burritos and other treats. Set in Chumash Park in a family picnic atmosphere, the post-race party also features live music, over 50 vendor booths dedicated to sports and fitness, giant inflatables for kids, prizes by Evolution Audio and Video, and other auction items and giveaways.

"It's an opportunity for every- one to unplug themselves and appreciate the abundance of outdoor activities that our area provides," said Nick Newkirk, Agoura Hills recreation supervisor.

Begun as a fundraising event to help support local schools during the state's 1985 budget crises, the Great Race continues to support education in Agoura Hills and Oak Park. In addition to donating more than $1 million for elementary schools and high school athletic programs, the event also raises fitness awareness.

In conjunction with the race, some local elementary schools are adopting programs such as the month-long Road to Fitness program at Oak Park's Brookside Elementary School in which students earn rewards and prizes while "training" for the April 5 race.

"It has become the students' favorite time of the year," said Toni Caruso of the Brookside Parent Teacher Association. "They are so proud of themselves when they eat healthy and turn off the television."

Although the event keeps growing and gaining big race appeal, it has managed to maintain its small town spirit.

"People come not only to run but to enjoy Agoura Hills's beautiful surroundings and small town charm," said Traci Greenberg, race director. "The event has turned into a celebration of fitness."

The race is sponsored by the city of Agoura Hills, Dole, Camp Keystone, Neftin Westlake Car Company and other local businesses

The races begin at 7 a.m. with the Chesebro HalfMarathon and continue throughout the morning with the last event, the Family Fun Run and Walk, starting at 10:15 a.m.

Individuals and families may register in advance at greatraceofagourahills.com.

Race day registration for any events not already filled will be available at Chumash Park, 5550 Medea Drive in Agoura Hills.

Entry fees range from $20 to $55.