The Twin Falls Police Department is encouraging citizens to register now for the annual Beat the Heat 5K run/walk to benefit Special Olympic athletes in the Magic Valley. The event, which challenges participants to outrun the Twin Falls Police Chief, will be held Saturday, May 17 at Twin Falls City Park. The race will start at 9:00 a.m.
The event drew more than 100 runner last year and the Twin Falls Police Department is hoping for an even bigger turnout this year. Prizes are awarded to first-place finishers in both adult and youth categories. Challenge Coins are awarded to anyone who finishes the 5k before the police chief.
“This is an annual event that is a lot of fun because how often do you get a chance to try and outrun the police without breaking the law?” said Chief Brian Pike, Twin Falls Police Department. “But I think the reason this gets bigger every year is because it benefits those Special Olympic athletes right here in our community.”
The cost is $30 per participant, which includes an event t-shirt and several other fun items. All proceeds raised in the run/walk stay in the Magic Valley to help Special Olympians practice and participate in competition around the United States. Without financial assistance, many athletes would be unable to compete in Special Olympic activities.
Participants in the Beat the Heat 5K need to be registered by Thursday, May 8 to be guaranteed an event t-shirt prior to the start of the run/walk. Participants can register at www.bluecirclesports.com – the Beat the Heat 5K will be displayed under Featured Events. There is a $5 late fee for participants who register after Friday, May 9th.