And we're off to the races...

In addition to UNC Charlotte's 4.NINER K, Saturday's race calendar offers a couple of other smaller options worth considering:

The Brookhaven 5K Fun Run/Walk at Brookhaven subdivision at Weddington-Matthews and Antioch Church roads in Matthews: This is the second year for an event that benefits Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, with proceeds going to the fight against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a fatal genetic disorder among children. (A 5-year-old Brookhaven resident named Jake is a sufferer.) Action starts at 9 a.m. in front of the subdivision's clubhouse. In addition to the 5K run/walk, there are one-mile, 100-yard, and 40-yard races for kids. The 5K is $15; see the race site for other details or to learn more about Jake and muscular dystrophy. The registration page is here.

The Jack O Lantern Jaunt at Frank Liske Park (4001 Stough Road) in Concord: Sleep in all you want Saturday, because this 10th annual event doesn't start till 4:45 p.m. After the two-mile cross country run and the one-mile "fun run"/walk conclude, a 5K race goes off at 5:15. The courses all stay within the Frank Liske Park grounds. In addition to age group awards, there'll be awards given to the runner wearing the best and worst costumes. Registration is $10 for the fun run, $15 for the two-miler, and $21 for the 5K. For more info or to register, click here.