The Jefferson County Department of Parks and Recreation will hold its 11th annual Big River Run this Sunday at the Northwest Sports Complex, 4900 Byrnesville Road, in House Springs. The event includes both 5K and 10-mile races.
There’s still time to sign up for the run, said recreation division manager Chelsea Wallis, adding that people may register in advance or on the day of the race.
As of the first week of September, more than 100 runners and walkers had already signed up for the race, she added.
Entry in the 5K costs $25 and $35 for the 10-mile run. Proceeds from the runs benefit various activities organized by the Parks and Recreation Department.
The race begins at 8 a.m., and participants may register and pick up their race packet between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m.
The top three finishers for both the 5K and 10-mile races will receive medals. In addition, medals will be awarded to the top three males and females in the 5K for the following age groups: 19 and younger, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 and 70 and older. The 10-mile awards will be given to the top males and females in the following age groups: 29 and younger, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 and older.
Wallis said participants will be treated to stunning views as they run through the Big River bottoms and the surrounding countryside.
“They’ll start from the Northwest Sports Complex and take in some of the beautiful scenery,” she said. “We’re excited to do it. It’s a ton of fun and a beautiful race.”
Both races start and end at the sports complex, with runners and walkers following the Big River on Byrnesville Road. The 10-mile run participants will turn left onto Dutch Creek Road in the Cedar Hill area before turning around and returning to the park near the ballfields.
To register, visit raceroster.com and search “Big River Run.” For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 636-797-5334 or email parks@jeffcomo.org.
Racing packets may be picked up from 5-7 p.m. Friday at the High Ridge Civic Center, 2800 Community Lane, or on the day of the race, according to the Race Roster website.