Contributed by Kayla Gaydosh, “Avid Runner”

Junior League of Annapolis, Inc. is again hosting its Ninth Annual Volunteers on the Run 5K event. Named in honor of JLA member Jennifer Summers Barrett, who passed away on July 27, 2011, Barrett epitomized a strong, dedicated Junior League woman who cared deeply for our community and especially our children.

This year the race will be held at Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) in Arnold, which hosts numerous running events every year. The slightly hilly course is a pleasure for walkers, achievable for novice runners, and a great workout for experienced runners.

If you haven’t been training, no need to worry. Although the 5K is less than two weeks away, it only takes a few 20-30 minutes runs to be in good enough shape for this event. Make sure you start training at a comfortable pace, and gradually increase the pace with each successive run.

On race day, no need to push yourself harder than you would during your training runs. In most races, your natural adrenaline will kick in when running with others, and you’ll end up running faster than you thought!

More experienced runners can enjoy the moderate course and focus on a good solid run and perhaps a Personal Record. I know I’ll be looking forward to some good competition!

And if you plan on walking the course, it is known brisk walking can be just as good of a workout as running all 3.1 miles. It is just as important to stretch before and after your training runs, both to loosen up your leg muscles and to help them heal after exercising. Staying hydrated and getting a good night sleep the couple days before the race are also key to a great race day run.

Either way, there will be plenty of activities before and after the race for all to enjoy. Race packet pick-up will be hosted by Charm City Run Annapolis from 10am – 2pm on Saturday October 10^th. Neo’s Pizza will also be hosting a Fun Run fundraiser on Friday October 9^th and Saturday October 10^th, where a percentage of proceeds will be donated to the Fun Run. Both of these events will be located in the Annapolis Towne Center.

On race day, the Baystrong Kids Warm-up will help get the kids running-ready at 8:40 am with the race starting promptly at 9:00 am. Awards will be at 10:00 am along with food, drinks, live music by the band Fast as Lightning, a photo booth, and an after-party at Athleta in the Annapolis Harbour Center!!

Register for the race here at active.com! We hope to see you there!