Charity races, runs and walks are as popular as ever right now. The idea of exercising while raising
money for a worthy cause appeals to both athletes and amateurs. Before diving into a fun run or
even a mini-triathlon, be sure to remember the following tips:
- Know the charity you're supporting. Pick an event with a cause you have a special attachment to. If you
aren't familiar with a charity beforehand, do some research to find out what they support and how long
they've been around. Feel free to call the event coordinator to learn exactly where your money will be going.
- Read the entry form carefully and look for minimum donation requirements. While some events have a simple
entry fee, larger events often require you to collect donations in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Be sure you realize the time commitment involved before the actual event, and compile a list of friends and
businesses that you can solicit for money.
- Train and be prepared. Just because you did a 5K three years ago doesn't mean you're still
in shape to do it again. Right before the race is not the time to break in your new pair of running
shoes. If you have time, check out the course you'll be running on. Be sure to combat possible weather
problems by bringing outerwear and rain gear to the event. The day before the race, restrict your diet
to carbohydrates and fluids while avoiding carbonated drinks and alcohol. And most importantly-have fun!
With these tips in mind, here are some of the large and adventurous charity races going on around the country:
- Walk to Cure Diabetes
With 170 events across the country, the diabetes walk raised $57 million for diabetes research last year
for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Perhaps best known for its youth read-a-thon, the MS society also holds special fundraising bike rides,
walks and runs across the country.
- Avon Walk for Breast Cancer
A three-day walk held in major cities across the country.
- Climb for a Cure
Climbing Mount McKinley is tough, but so is beating cancer. The Climb for a Cure is an attempt to raise
awareness for cancer through donations. While the climb is not meant for regular citizens, you can help
the climbing team by donating money though their Web site.
- Race for the Cure
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation will hold more than 100 races in the United States and three other
countries this year. The 5K events raise money for breast cancer research.
- WalkAmerica
The March of Dimes holds this yearly event to raise awareness of infant health problems.
--- D. Richards
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