Due to the impressive popularity of the inaugural event, the NAACP Stockton Branch invites area residents to unite and join them for the second annual Dr. Luther King, Jr., 10k/5k/1k Run and Walk, to be held on Saturday, Jan. 12 in downtown Stockton.
This event gives participants the choice of a 5k Run/Walk or 10k Run/Walk (10k is two loops of the 5k course) on two extremely flat and fast courses, featuring lots of visibility for the runners of the field ahead and behind them. The downtown courses’ sights include the Stockton Downtown Marina and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza. These two courses are perfect for runners looking to set a new personal record. The 1k Walk/Run (for ages 9 and under) will take place on Fremont Street, which will be completely closed to traffic.
“Revenue received from this race will fund community efforts, such as educating and empowering citizens to make better health-related decisions and to address matters of viable health-care services, treatment, and other relevant matters that impact our community,” said President Robert “Bobby” Bivens, NAACP Stockton Branch.
Participants of the 10k and 5k events will receive a commemorative custom tech T-shirt, finisher medal and wristband. Finisher ribbons and a special treat will be handed out to all 1k participants. Pre- and post-race refreshments will be offered to all race participants.
Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers – ages 18 and over, as well as first male and female youth finishers – ages 10-17. In addition, the first oldest male and female participants to cross the finish line will also receive a special award.
After the races, participants are encouraged to take part in some face painting for all, there will be a bounce house for the children, balloon art and other fun activities for the community, friends, family, and guests to enjoy.
Pre-registration entry fees are $50, ages 18 and over ($60 race day); and $40 for youth, ages 10-17 ($50 race day). The 1k Walk/Run, for ages 9 and under is $10 – no price increase on race day. To pre-register for the race, visit itsyourrace.com’s web page.
To beat the race-day rush, there will be an early race packet pick-up held on Friday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Fleet Feet Sports Stockton, 277 Lincoln Center.
Race-day check in and registration will open up at 7:30 a.m., at Dr. Martin Luther King Plaza, 2 East Oak St., Stockton. This will be the same general area designated for the race finish/start line. Both 10k and 5k contests will start at 9 a.m. The 1k Run/Walk will follow at 10:15 a.m.
Founded in February 12, 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest, largest, and most widely recognized grassroots based civil rights organization. Its more than half a million members and supporters throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. For 85 years, the NAACP Stockton Branch has provided free services through their volunteers to the Stockton/San Joaquin community.
