The 2nd annual Reindeer Dash, a family friendly 5k, will take place Saturday, Nov. 9, at Academy Sports + Outdoors at Hamilton Place. The run begins at 8 a.m. and the course will wind through the 200 acre shopping complex. The event ushers in the official start of the holiday season and precedes the annual Hamilton Place Santa Arrival parade slated to begin at 11 a.m.
Katie Lyle, executive director at the Hamilton YMCA branch stated “This is such a fun way to kick-off the holiday season and stay active and healthy.” Ms. Lyle noted that all money raised benefits this year’s Community Support Campaign which funds numerous programs including; Y-CAP, academic enrichment programs and family scholarships for membership and programs. The YMCA will also provide free on-site childcare during the event along with family friendly activities.
Advance registration is $25 per person, $30 after Oct. 15. Teams of 10 or more are more are $20 per participant. First place winners in both the men’s and women’s categories will receive a $250 gift card from Academy Sports.
For anyone not quite ready to run a 5k, the Hamilton YMCA will conduct a ‘COUCH to 5k’ program beginning Sept. 9 that will have participants race-ready in nine weeks. The class is limited to the first 20 adults to register; children are also encouraged to join. In addition to the physical activities, instructors will cover a different topic each week including; nutrition, footwear, strength training, form, breath work and more.
For more information on the ‘Couch to 5k’ program, please contact the Hamilton YMCA at 899-1721.