2011 5K Run/Walk Events in St. Charles County, Missouri

It is insane to sign up for a 5K, 10K or any other K event, right? I mean who would want to endure the training, the shin splints, the burning feet? However, thousands of people do it all the time. Filling their weekends with early mornings and their closets with token t-shirts. Some choose to run for a specific cause. Others find it thrilling and challenging to say they actually completed a 3 plus mile run without passing out. And then there are the fierce who run to outrun everyone else.

Well, I am still unsure about my sanity at the moment that I type these words because I have decided to be one of those early risers, t-shirt collecting, fiercely running people (okay, let's face it. Not too fierce. I am fine finishing last. I just want to survive the experience) and sign up for my first 5K.

In order to do this, I treated myself to a shopping spree for shoes and wardrobe. I have gotten more serious about eating healthier and I have started a training regimen. I have also begun researching what I consider to be beginner 5K races in the St. Charles County area. Here are some potential races that may have me off and running sooner rather than later. I have never ran a 5K. This will be by first time so I tried to pick some races that were not so intimidating and others that may be a little more challenging for those that crave that kind of course.

1st Annual Crusader 5K/10K

This race is being sponsored by Assumption Church in O'Fallon, MO with proceeds benefiting the church. In addition to the run, there will be entertainment and a post race party. The family registration fee makes this race affordable for families to run (or walk quickly) together. Registrations are accepted in person or by mail. I could not find information on the Assumption website. But you can download the registration form at

When: April 2, 2011
Race Time: 8:30am
Location: Assumption, 403 N Main St., O'Fallon, MO, 63366
Entry Fees: $20 (Race Day $30) $75 for a family of 4 (Race Day $100)
Course:

Contact Info:
(636) 314-283-1666

HEALTH FOR LIFE 5K/1M

This event is sponsored by

When: May 7^th, 2011
Race Time: 8 am
Location: Morning Star Church, 1600 Feise Road, O'Fallon, MO 63366
Entry Fees: Vary depending on the sign up date. $25 - $40. Website details exact cut-off dates.
Course: 5K course is measured according to USATF standards. Both races begin at Morningstar Church. A map is provided on the website.

Children 6 and under are free which can make this a fun, inexpensive event for families with small children.

Contact Info:
(636) 379-9105

LINCOLN COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING - 5K Run/Walk

This race is not in St. Charles County, but for those living in the western part of St. Charles County this is a great opportunity. This race will benefit the

When: Saturday, April 2, 2011
Race Time: 8 am Run/Walk, 8:15am Walk-a-Thon
Location: Clonts Field, Troy, MO
Entry Fees: $20; after March 15 $25

Contact Info:
(636) 528 - 7000
1380 Boone Street, Troy, MO 63379

Run for Your Life - 5K

This event is a 5K run/walk is for anyone who wants to honor a cancer patient that has been a part of their lives whether a family member or a friend or any cancer patient that has in someway inspired you. The event will be held at Quail Ridge Park in Wentzville, MO. This is a beautiful park with lots of shaded area for a hot June morning.

Proceeds from the race will benefit LIVEN, a program at the

When: June 5, 2011
Race Time: 8:30 am
Locations: Quail Ridge Park, Wentzville, MO
Entry Fees: $17 until midnight of May 17, $22 until noon of June 1
A discount applies for immediate family members and is listed on the registration form on-line.

Contact Info:
(636) 928 - WELL

The Finish Line

Hopefully, one of these races will inspire you to get up and moving your feet. Running or walking is a way to stay healthy and fit both physically and mentally. What better way to start the weekend off than getting moving bright and earlier for a good cause - your health! Happy Running! http://www.fleetfeetstl.com/racetiming/entryforms/Crusader%205K%2010K%20FINAL%20Flier.pdf . FleetFeet will time the race and begin at Assumption Church. CenterPoint , Chiropractic, Acupuncture and Nutrition. Love Inc., a social service agency in Wentzville, MO, will benefit from the proceeds of the race. Registration can be completed on-line, in person or by mail. Lincoln County Council on Aging . Proceeds will benefit the Elsberry Nutrition Center, Silex Senior Center, Troy Senior Center, and WinCo Senior Center. Registration forms can be found on-line and can be returned in person or by mail. Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes- Jewish St. Peters Hospital for cancer survivors. Registrations will only be accepted on-line. http://www.active.com/running/wentzville-mo/run-for-your-life-5k-2011