And we're off to the races ...

Several hundred runners will probably turn out for the Summer Breeze 5K on the edge of Dilworth Saturday, but anyone looking for some short-distance action north of town this weekend has a couple of unique options to choose from.

Both Friday night and Saturday morning are likely to be very hot (94 is the predicted high for both days), so remember to drink plenty of fluids!

Anyway, let's get to it.

Miles of Mooresville
What: 1-, 2- and 3-mile races.
When: Friday night. One-mile race starts at 7, two-miler starts at 7:20, 3-miler starts at 8 p.m.
Cost: For $18, runners can participate in any or all of these races.
Where: 116 S. Main St. in downtown Mooresville. All races start at Main and Center streets.
Why: Proceeds will be donated to local charities in the Mooresville area, including the Humane Society of Iredell County.
Of note: This is the first event in the Queen City Timing race series that features identical races on the third Friday of July (the 17th) and the third Friday of August (the 21st). Each runner will receive a technical T-shirt and two free beers provided by Carolina Blonde (ID required). There will be live music and kids activities.
Official site: Click here. To register: Click here.

Ada Jenkins Fire 5K
What: 5K run and 1-mile fun run/walk.
When: 5K start is at 8 a.m. Saturday. Fun run/walk is at 8:45.
Cost: 5K is $25 in advance, $35 on race day; fun run/walk is $15 (kids under 5 are free).
Where: Start and finish is at the Ada Jenkins Center, 212 Gamble St. in Davidson.
Why: Proceeds support the Ada Jenkins Center, which provides assistance to residents in northern Mecklenburg and southern Iredell counties (including free medical and dental clinics, groceries from Loaves & Fishes, after-school programs and more).
Of note: Race committee member Sue Mitchell says the 5K course has "only one big incline, at the end" -- and adds that the 1-mile course is "very flat" and "stroller-friendly." All runners will get a ticket for a barbecue (11 a.m.-2 p.m.). Non-runners can buy BBQ tickets for $10 (here).
Race brochure: Click here. To register: Click here.

Know of any other races happening this weekend?