Pick a charity and run with it

Running is a fairly popular activity in Utah, but some people rank it pretty low on a their list of favorite exercises. For those of us that need a good reason to run other than being chased, charity 5K’s are a great way to be proactive as well as physically active.

The Wild Stampede 5K Run for Wildlife and the Prevent Child Abuse 5K Walk are two such races taking place on Oct. 2. Both are very important charities, but this weekend offers to opportunities to support two different, important causes.

The American Association of Zookeepers is using the Wild Stampede Run to raise awareness and funds for Actions for Cheetahs in Kenya. The proceeds from the Prevent Child Abuse 5K will go towards programs in Utah’s communities and schools that prevent abuse.

The range of physical fitness at these events can vary widely, and it likely depends on how competitive and how active you are.  If you really want to run these things or possibly earn something besides a T-shirt and a water bottle, usually a month or more of training will help get you into that type of shape. Walking the 5K usually requires less training, but taking practice walks in the days and weeks before probably helps whether you’re in shape or not.

The Wild Stampede
5K Run for Wildlife
Where?—Utah’s Hogle Zoo, 2600 E. Sunnyside Ave., Salt Lake City
When?—Oct. 2 at 8 a.m.
Registration?—$30 before September 30
For more info?—www.HogleZoo.org
Important note?—No dogs, wheelies, rollerblades and skateboards

Prevent Child Abuse
5K Walk
Where?—Sugar House Park, 1330 E. 2100 S., Salt Lake City
When?—Oct. 2, 8:30 a.m. check-in; race starts at 9 a.m.
Registration?—$15 per person or $30 for a family of four
For more info?—www.PreventChildAbuseUtah.org