RIPON – Organizers of Rina’s Run are keeping their fingers crossed for more participants.
The event consisting of 5 kilometer run / walk is planned for 8 a.m. Saturday kicking off with a mile run for youngsters’ age 5 through 12 (the winner gets a GT BMX bike).
Thus far, the Ripon Community Athletic Foundation has been thrilled with the numbers of sponsors exceeding that of the previous year.
“I’m also extremely excited about the enthusiasm from (Ripon High athletic director) Chris Johnson,” RCAF President Stephanie Hobbs said. “He’s stepped up and offered to champion the group rate that we’re offering.”
High school students from Ripon are eligible to receive the $15 group rate by turning in entry forms along with a check payable to RCAF to Johnson at Ripon High by Thursday.
The non-profit organization with hopes of making Stouffer Field at Ripon High a first-class facility – eight-lane track, all-weather surface, synthetic playing surface, etc. – has managed to raise $11,000 via sponsors.
Supporters such as Gikas’ Golden Gate Nuts have promised to make Rina’s Run a top-notch event.
Starting time for the 5K / walk will begin at 8:30, with the starting and finishing line located on Acacia Street at the Ripon High.
At the conclusion of both races, participants can enjoy refreshments in the stadium, where the awards ceremony will take place.
In addition, the cheer squad will be distributing water at two stations along the race route while Ripon High athletes from the various sports will line up the course to cheer on the participants. The Ripon Police Department will also be around to provide safety along the race route.
Forms for mail-in entries must be received by Wednesday, May 6, and can be done by logging on to www.Active.com.
Entry forms are available at Ripon Plaza Dental, Dean Uecker’s Farmer’s Insurance, or by calling Laurie Reilly at (209) 985-7445. An entry form can be printed out by logging on to www.rcaf.com.