The California High School track and cross country teams will host the 'Endure the Race 5k Run/Walk' fundraiser Saturday, Aug. 20, at the CHS track to raise money for the track and cross country programs. Part of the proceeds will also go to the Waylon Martensen Memorial Track and Cross Country Scholarship Fund.
Waylon was a four-year member of the CHS track team and continued his passion for running at Northwest Missouri State University until his death May 7, 2010. Waylon had longed for a cross country team at CHS, however, he didn't live to see that dream become a reality. The cross country team was formed at CHS in July 2010, just two months after his death.
The efforts of the Davis, Figgins, Huff, Kirby and Thibon families helped make the cross country team a reality.
The team has already produced one All-State finisher and four All-District and state qualifiers.
Registration for those who wish to participate in the 5k Run/Walk fundraiser will be held 5-6:30 p.m. at the high school track. The Kids Mile will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the 5k Run/Walk will begin at 7 p.m.
The cost to participate is $20 for participants who registered before Aug. 8 and $25 for participants who register the day of the race. There is no charge for those participating in the Kids Mile.
T-shirts will be issued to the first 100 pre-registered participants and on a first come-first serve basis at registration the day of the race.
Awards will be given to the overall male and female and the first three finishers in the following age groups: 0-10, 11-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and older.
Registration forms are available to print online at www.runjeffcity.org. Mail completed forms with the entry fee (make checks payable to CHS Track) to: Endure The Race, 703 Crystal Lane, California, MO, 65018, or drop off at Central Bank, California.
For more information, call Gwen Kirby at 573-796-8372 or email Kirby at [email protected], or email CHS Cross Country Coach Josh Grotzinger at [email protected].