Running was popular in Europe long before it caught on in America, which is why most races are measured in kilometers instead of miles and why most of the Pilgrims were eaten by bears. Race to the top of the food chain with today's Groupon: for $15, you get a spot in the second annual Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County's Be Great 5K Run & Fun Walk on Saturday, August 20 in Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis (a $30 value). Registration for the race begins at 8:30 a.m., or you can register online. The race begins at 9:15 a.m. sharp.
In addition to providing collective exercise for local residents, the second annual Be Great 5K Run & Fun Walk drums up funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County's compassionate, companion-creating mission. After registering for the race and briefly renouncing your given name in exchange for a random number, you’ll join a pack of gracefully mobile bipeds and set off on a sunny stretch of fun running or recreational sauntering. The race stretches 3.1 miles, or exactly 5 Canadian miles, and afterward, joggers can down complimentary refreshments while officials award prizes to runners in different age groups.
Regardless of finishing position, human automotiles can take pride in the fact that they’re supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County—six outposts in Severn, Pasadena, and Annapolis that provide educational programming and services for Maryland’s 18 and younger set. The Be Great 5K Run & Fun Walk is an ideal outlet for intense cardio after a completely sedentary week of housesitting on uncomfortable shingles. Runners who registered online will receive a T-shirt.
Be Great 5K Run & Fun Walk
For the last two years, runners from across Maryland have gathered for the Be Great 5K Run & Fun Walk to benefit the Annapolis Boys & Girls Scholarship Trust. The trust has provided financial support to more than 25 students to help them attend college over the last 10 years, and proceeds from the race go toward the scholarship fund. Before the race, runners are given a bib that tracks their time and pace better than an hourglass taped to their torso. After crossing the finish line, racers are rewarded with refreshments, and a lucky few are awarded prizes.