And we're off to the races...

Looking for a race to run this weekend? You've got plenty of choices.

The "big" race on Saturday is the Elizabeth 8K -- which hosted 502 runners last year -- but the same morning there are FIVE small 5Ks happening out in the surrounding areas (one each in Davidson, Harrisburg, Mooresville, Gastonia and Monroe). Read on for all the details.

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The Elizabeth 8K
8 a.m. Saturday (there's also a 3K run/walk and a "Liz Kids' Fun Run").

What is the history of the race?
Says race committee member Jen Hurd: "This will be our 24th edition, and we are Charlotte’s oldest 8K race. We’re actually one of only two 8Ks, so it’s a unique distance for Charlotte."

What is the beneficiary of the race?
Hurd: "The funds raised are earmarked for area beautification and replanting of trees in the Elizabeth neighborhood. The Elizabeth Community Association actually helps subsidize the purchase of trees and tree banding supplies for the residents. The race is the community’s largest fundraiser, so it helps makes those efforts possible."

What is unique about the race?
"The course really makes the Elizabeth 8K special. It predominately takes place on neighborhood streets, which makes it more scenic that the typical road race in Charlotte. The neighborhood really gets into it and you’ll see residents out cheering on the runners and walkers. It’s the right size in my opinion – small enough so that it feels like a neighborhood race yet big enough that it has all the bells and whistles the larger races do."

What’s new in 2010?
"We are looking forward to enhanced post-race celebration. We’ve added live music, yoga sessions for both kids and adults, chair massage, and even beer. Back by popular demand is our annual mascot, a very lively Elvis impersonator. People would be very disappointed not to have him there."

How can people get more details and register?
"All the info you need is on elizabeth8k.com. You can register online there or print off an entry form and mail it in. We will offer in-person registration at Charlotte Running Company on Thursday and Friday before the race and on race day."

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The Ada Jenkins Center Fire 5K

The race starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, and when runners finish, they will be first in line for the barbecue plate that serves as part of their reward.

Registration ($25 before race day, or $35 on race day) includes the runner's choice of one pound of barbecue, or a half-pound of barbecue and all of the fixings, or up to five samples from the barbecue competitors or restaurants participating in the event. To register, click here.

The Ada Jenkins Center -- located at 212 Gamble St. in Davidson -- provides health, education and human services to citizens in northern Mecklenburg and southern Iredell counties, through programs including Loaves & Fishes, a free medical clinic and a low-cost after-school program.

Note: The barbecue is open to the public from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Non-runners can buy BBQ tickets for $10 (here).

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The Harrisburg 5K

What: 5K race and 1-mile Family Fun Run.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday (Fun Run starts at 9).
Where: The race will start and finish in front of the Harrisburg Family YMCA, 4100 Main St.
Why: Proceeds will benefit charities selected by the Southwest Cabarrus Rotary Club and the Harrisburg Family YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
Cost: $20 through Friday, $25 on race day. Fun run is $10 through Friday, $10 on race day.
Of note: Amenities include T-shirts for all pre-registrants, chip timing, changing rooms, and -- after the race -- food, DJ entertainment, and an awards ceremony.
To register: Click here.

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The Lowe's YMCA Starfish 5K

What: 5K and Fun Run.
When: 9 a.m. Saturday (Fun Run starts at 10).
Where: The race will start and finish in front of the Lowe's YMCA, 170 Joe Knox Ave. in Mooresville.
Why: Proceeds from this event and the Lowe's YMCA Annual Campaign help fund the YMCA Starfish Academy, a summer literacy program for rising first and second graders who are reading below grade level.
Cost: $20 through Friday, $25 on race day. Fun Run is $5.
Of note: The event is followed by "Healthy Kids Day" activities (10 a.m.-2 p.m.), which are "designed to promote healthy kids and families in spirit, mind and body."
More info: Click here.

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The Run for the Money

What: 5K Run and 2K Fun Walk.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday (Fun Walk starts at 8:30).
Where: Downtown Gastonia at the Rotary Pavilion.
Why: Overall race winners -- male and female -- get to designate $1,000 for the non-profit of their choice. Age group winners get to designate $500; runners-up get to designate $250.
Cost: $20 (Fun Walk is free).
Of note: There will be food, a "healthy kids zone," music, and non-profit display booths.
To register: Click here.

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The Earth Day 5K

What: 5K run/walk and Children's Fun Run.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday (Fun Run starts at 9:30).
Where: The race starts and finishes in downtown Monroe.
Why: Proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity in promoting environmentally friendly building practices.
Cost: $20 to run, $15 to walk (fees increase by $5 on race day).
Of note: The second annual event is being held in conjuction with family-friendly Earth Day activities taking place nearby. ... Course is reportedly flat and fast. ... Race tees are made from recyclable material. ... Prizes will be given to runners dressed like "environmentally friendly items" (e.g. a hybrid car, a tulip, a bumblebee, a recycled can, etc.). Register for the costume contest the day of the event.
To register: Click here.

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