OPPORTUNITIES

Lake Catherine hosts fourth I Love LK race

The fourth annual I Love LK 5K weekend opens Friday afternoon with packet pickup and a balloon release in downtown Hot Springs.

The race starts at 9 a.m. Saturday at Lake Catherine State Park's Visitor Center, 1200 Catherine Park Road.

The 5K runners will get quite a view doing this in-and-out footrace, running through the park past lake and marina and through the campgrounds. There will be a dogleg turn near campsite 54; racers will come back to the visitor center through the back of the campgrounds.

A water station will be available on the downside of the hill.

For a third year, a short walk will precede the race. This Lila's Mile was introduced for special needs participants, to honor unique differences. Chick-fil-A cows will walk participants and family members to the finish line (if desired), where special awards will be waiting for each participant.

Although there is no registration needed for this short walk, those wanting T-shirts can buy them online, using the "Store" option on the race website.

Lila Kate McAlister was born with heart problems and Down syndrome. She was 4 1/2 when she died on Jan. 10, 2015. Her family created the 5K to raise money for charitable organizations such as Arkansas Down Syndrome Association.

Registration for the chip-timed 5K is $20. Early packet and T-shirt pickup will be available 4 to 7 p.m. at Lake Valley Community Church, 901 Shady Grove Road. In celebration of Lila the balloon release will also be during this time.

Race-day registration will be available in the park, but arrive early. To ensure runners get perfect timing, traffic will be halted by 8:45 a.m. (Due to limited parking, carpooling is suggested.)

For registration and a map, visit runsignup.com and search for "I Love LK 5K".

Please send tips for active recreation events to

charlette.williams

@arkansasonline.com

ActiveStyle on 03/12/2018

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