Miller YMCA's Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk Debuts December 20

PR Log (Press Release) – Nov 06, 2009 – Newbury Park, Calif.--The first annual Miller Family YMCA Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk presented by K-Swiss will be held Sunday, December 20. The run/walk  begins at 8:00 a.m. at the Miller YMCA followed by a free 1K Strong Kids Fun Run at 9:15 a.m. Free childcare at the YMCA is provided for children ages 8 weeks to 10 years whose parents are preregistered for the event.

   Runners and walkers start out at the Miller YMCA (320 Via Las Brisas) in the Paraiso Shopping Center, follow a course around the Dos Vientos neighborhood while taking in the beautiful mountain scenery, travel around a nearby park and finish back at the Y. The course is certified and runners are professionally timed. Awards will be given to the fastest five male and female runners in all age categories from age 14 and under up to age 70 and older.

   The cost to participate is $25 (if registered by November 30), $30 afterwards and on race day. All participants receive race t-shirts. K-Swiss long-sleeved performance tech shirts will be given to the first 500 registrants.  

   Proceeds from the Jingle Bell 5k Run/Walk go to the Miller Family YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. "The campaign is raising money to ensure all members of the community can participate in YMCA programs regardless of their inability to pay," says Jill Shaffer, executive director of the Miller Family YMCA. "It's the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays and spend time with family and friends to enjoy a race, jog or leisurely stroll."

   Major event sponsors are K-Swiss, Davidon Homes, Honda/Acura of Thousand Oaks and Wendy’s. Post event snacks are being provided by Aloha Steakhouse, Trader Joes and other vendors.

   Participants can register online by going to www.active.com and type in "Jingle Bell 5K Newbury Park" in the search box. Call 805-480-0309 for more information.