PlanetRockwall.com

Heart of Heath 5K Run / Walk

Heart of Heath 5k Run/Walk is Easter Saturday, April 23

Heath, Texas -- The City of Heath invites you to start Easter weekend off at the 2011 Heart of Heath 5k Run/Walk on Saturday, April 23. The family-friendly event is open to all ages and athletic abilities ranging from the casual walker or baby jogger to the elite runner.

“The Heart of Heath is kind of like our own version of the Turkey Trot,” said Heath Mayor John Ratcliffe. “It has become a hometown tradition that our residents love to share with friends and family who are visiting for the holiday.”

“Hosting this event on Easter weekend has clearly been a popular decision,” said Joel Palin, chairman of the City of Heath’s Special Events Board. “Our participation has increased each year as folks come out to share the camaraderie of a great event that promotes healthy lifestyles and community involvement.”

Participants this year will also enjoy enhancements made through the support of the Rockwall Running Center, which has proven national race management experience. “We will use our expertise and technology to provide a top-notch event that will attract participants from all over the Metroplex,” said Coach Barrett Hopper of the Rockwall Running Center. “The runner-friendly atmosphere will include expanded races categories, fast and accurate results, and a well-marked and accurate course that we are in the process of having certified.”

The male and female race categories are divided by age with awards presented to the top three in each class as well as awards going to the top runners overall. The age brackets are: u-11; 12-14; 15-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; and 60 and up.

Rain or shine, the run will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Heath City Hall at 200 Laurence Drive. A Dri-Fit T-shirt bearing the Heart of Heath logo will be given to every participant while supplies last, and drawings will be held after the race for door prizes donated by local merchants.

The early registration fee is $15 by April 20; and $20 thereafter including the morning of the race. The youth registration fee is $10 in advance and at the race.

Pre-registration packet pickup will be Friday, April 22 from noon to 6 p.m. at Rockwall Running Center, 811 E. Yellow Jacket Lane. Packet pickup and registration at the race will begin at 7:30 a.m. with an 8:15 warm up.

Online registration and forms are available at www.heathtx.com or Heath City Hall.

All proceeds from the run will benefit the Heath Trails System that will connect public areas, parks and neighborhoods. If you or your business would like to be a sponsor or prize donor, please contact Assistant City Manager Kim Dobbs at 972-771-6228 or kdobbs@heathtx.com.

Photo Caption: A record 329 runners and walkers participated in the Heart of Heath 5k Run/Walk presented in 2010.

Assistant City Manager Kim Dobbs
972-771-6228 | kdobbs@heathtx.com