Running in a charity race is an easy way to benefit a good cause, unlike single-handedly building a school or trying to unionize whales. Gallop gallantly with today's Groupon: for $17, you get entry in a 5K or 10K run on Saturday, July 9, or a 5K or 8K run on Sunday, July 10, at the Caribbean Sounds Race (a $39.94 value). Races begin at 7:45 a.m. The July 9 races have a limited number of spots available, so hurry to register before June 30.

Caribbean Sounds fuels athletic endeavors in a swirling gala of sun-soaked live reggae and calypso music. Burn rubber soles across the rolling inclines of Rock Creek Park on either of the two routes, before feasting upon a mouthwatering island spread. Like the act of tying Darth Vader's shoes together, the race imbues athletes with equal doses of adrenaline and good karma, as the event benefits sarcoidosis research. A brief address will expound on the efforts to eradicate the disease, and each runner will receive a T-shirt to proudly commemorate the experience. Caribbean Sounds welcomes fleet feet of all ages, and each bracket dangles prizes including Starbucks gift cards, athletic equipment, and autographed headshots of cheetahs.