ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Elk Grove residents can lace up their shoes once again in support of local youth sports during the 15th annual Kaiser Permanente Running of the Elk 5K, 10K and Kids’ Fun Runs, set for 8 a.m. Sunday, March 29.

The event raises funds for the Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation, a nonprofit that provides scholarships to local children, ensuring they can participate in recreational sports regardless of their financial means.

Event sponsors include the City of Elk Grove, Wilton Rancheria, Elk Grove Rotary Club, Elk Grove Lions Club, xHope, Inc., Elk Grove School of Rock, Elk Grove Food Bank and Runnin’ for Rhett, among other community organizations.

Races will start and end at District56, 8230 Civic Center Drive. The Kids’ Fun Runs begin at 8 a.m. and include a quarter-mile race for children 6 and under and a half-mile race for ages 7 to 12. The 5K and 10K runs follow at 8:30 a.m. The races are stroller and dog friendly.

Youth take the course first at the 15th annual Running of the Elk, with Kids’ Fun Runs beginning at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K and 10K races at 8:30 a.m. on March 29 at District56 (8230 Civic Center Drive).

All participants will receive a T-shirt, a finisher medal, post-race entertainment, pancakes and fruit and free photo downloads, as well as access to games and vendor booths.

Overall male and female winners in the 5K race will earn special awards, while the top three finishers in each age group receive custom honors, with second- and third-place age-group finishers also taking home unique elk-themed prizes.

Registration for the 5K and 10K is $51.56 for adults and $40.91 for youth, while the Kids’ Fun Run for ages 1 through 12 is $22.80. All ticket prices shown are before taxes and fees. Those interested in registering or donating to the Elk Grove Youth Sports Foundation can visit runsignup.com/Race/CA/ElkGrove/RunningoftheElk.