Azalea Classic Promotes Fitness, Community Ties

This Saturday, April 20, the town of University Park will host the annual Azalea Classic 5K, where participants can compete in one of three races for both children and adults, solidifying community ties and promoting health and fitness.

This year, the Northwestern High School band will be performing live music at the start and finish lines, cheering on the runners and walkers in the 5K, 1 mile, and 1K run and walk.

The fundraiser will support the University Park Elementary School’s PTA and unite over 800 participants and community volunteers, including some who do not have children at the elementary school.

The race provides an opportunity for the community to enjoy the outdoors together learn more about each other, said Kristi Janzen, the 2013 race director.

“It’s a fantastic event that sends so many positive messages: have fun, get to know your neighbors, support your community, be outside, get moving,” Janzen said.

“I think that what makes this race unique is the way that the kids are prepared for the race through the in-school training program," Janzen said. "It’s made out to be really fun, as well, by the teachers at the school.”

More than 50 volunteers will help delineate the race’s course, which starts on Queens Chapel Road and ends at the University Park Elementary School. Splits, according to the map of the Azalea Classic website, will be called at 1 and 2 miles. Water is available at the station located at the 1.5-mile mark.

Register online for the race or become a friend and family sponsor to a participant.

The 1-mile challenge run starts at 8:30 a.m., the 1K “Val Creighton Memorial” Family Fun Run starts at 8:45 a.m. The 5K run and walk is set for 9:05 a.m. The 5K is USATF certified.

The race, according to the website, will finish with a DJ, raffle and prizes to top finishers at the post-race party. The entrance fee is $20 for the 5k and $15 for the 1 mile or 1K.  Find out more at www.azaleaclassic.com.