A-Maize-ing Races once again usher in Maize Days
Recreational runners of all levels will have their choice of distances at the sixth annual Maize Days A-Maize-ing 5K, 10K and the Mile for Kyle, says Police Lt. Adana Barber, run coordinator.
“For the second year in a row, we are offering three distances,” she said. “And, while the distances may be different, the proceeds will all go to very worthy causes.”
The races precede the Murphy Maize Days celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26. All races start and finish inside Tom Kimbrough Stadium, 700 North Murphy Road. The Mile for Kyle, starting at 7:45 a.m., will be run completely inside the stadium. An awards ceremony will follow the conclusion of the races at 9:30 a.m.
Funds collected from entries in the Mile for Kyle will be donated to the Sgt. Kyle Kucauskas Scholarship Fund. The fund honors the memory of Kucauskas who died in early 2013. All proceeds from the 5K run will be donated to the International Melanoma Foundation in honor of the late Neal Golden, who succumbed to the disease in 2010. And, the proceeds from the 10K will be donated to the Murphy Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund.
“Registration is now open for the race through the Maize Days website, but only until, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. Then, only onsite registration will be available,” she said. Cost of the one-mile fun run is $15, the 5K is $30 and the 10K is $40. There is a $5 increase for all races when registering on race day.
While online registration may be accomplished with a credit card, race day registration can only occur with cash or checks. Run packets can be picked up on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the City Hall entryway or at the registration table on race day.
Awards will be presented to the fastest male and female in the 5K and 10K along with the top three finishers in the following age categories: 10 and under; 11-14; 15-19; 20-24; 25-29; 30-34; 35-39; 40-44; 45-49; 50-54; 55-59; 60-64; 65 and over. All participants in all three races will receive a commemorative T-shirt while they last.“Participants who choose to enter the Mayor’s Cup will get an opportunity to have their names inscribed on the cup by accurately predicting their race time,” she said. “The 5K and 10K male and female runners who get the closest to their prediction will win.” The results on the racing chip will serve as the official time. The Mayor’s Cup is on permanent display at City Hall.
“We’re going to run the race, rain or shine. The two longer routes are very scenic, and safe. Nevertheless, we will have Murphy Fire Rescue on standby for any emergencies. And, of course, we encourage all of our runners and families to attend the Maize Days festival,” added Barber.
Registration and more information can be obtained at www.murphymaizedays.com.