Annual Valparaiso Family YMCA event raises funds for Wellness Programs for all ages
Kick off the running season with the region's largest race of the spring on Saturday, April 7th! In its 18th year, the Ringing In Spring race will feature a 5K run/walk and new for this year, a 10K run. The race starts at 9 AM CT at the Valparaiso Family YMCA, located at 1201 Cumberland Crossing Drive, Valparaiso, IN. The 5K Prediction Walk will start a few minutes after the run and is a non-judged walk. Teams of five or more can enter in the team competition for either the 5K or 10K run and will be scored cross-country style. All teams must register by April 6th.
This is a Gold Cup Race Series and has received the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) designation as a CARA-Certified Race. CARA is devoted to expanding, motivating, supporting and celebrating the running community of Chicagoland.
This year’s race course has been adjusted to feature a faster starting area that includes a straight takeoff down a wide road. The course is similar to the 2011 Ringing In Spring course and the new 10K features a double-loop.
Runners and walkers can register for this race online at http://www.ringinginspring.com or can register in person at the Courtesy Desk at the Valparaiso Family YMCA. Pre-registration ends on March 26th, and registration continues up to race day for an extra fee.
All pre-registered runners and walkers have the option to receive a race T-shirt, and the Valparaiso Family YMCA will provide free child care and gear check. Post-race healthy snacks and water will be available for runners and walkers. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each division in both the 5K and 10K distances.
Race packet pick-up and registration is on Friday, April 6, from 6:30-8:30 PM CT at the Valparaiso Family YMCA and on race day, April 7th, from 7:30-8:30 AM CT.
Please see the website (http://www.ringinginspring.com) for more information or to see the race course map (http://www.ringinginspring.com/coursemap.pdf). If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Ruth Cavanaugh at 462-4185 x234 or rcavanaugh@valpoymca.org.