(Washington, DC)  The DC Department of Mental Health Community Services Agency and its Mental Health Advisory Board Collaborative are seeking runners and walkers for the 13th Annual Race for Mental Health, Saturday, October 21, in Rock Creek Park. Participants can enter the park at 16th and Kennedy Streets, NW, starting at 8 am.  The race, which begins at 9 am, will benefit people with differing abilities. Cash prizes will be awarded to the first male and first female to complete the 5K run and 1 mile walk. Prizes also will be awarded to adult runners who place second and third.  Food will be served after the race.

“The 5K-run course is challenging enough for serious competitors but not too challenging to intimidate those with less experience,” said DMH Director Stephen T. Baron, who is going to participate.  “It is a certified race, so runners can add their time to their official record, and it’s good practice to prepare for the upcoming Marine Marathon.  Last year, we had a number of people who had registered for the 1-mile walk, but at the last minute decided to test their endurance by running five kilometers instead. They felt great crossing the finish line.”

Registration fees paid before October 13 are $20 for the 5K run and $12 for the 1 mile walk; after October 13, the fees are $25 for the run and $15 for the walk.  Checks should be made payable to NCMHC Advisory Board and should accompany the registration form.  Both should be mailed to John Graham, Race Coordinator, DC Community Services Agency, 1250 U Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009. 

Participants should come to the Fitzgerald Tennis Center at 16th and Kennedy Streets, NW, to pick up their race packets the day of the race between 8 am and 8:45 am.

Online registration is available at www.active.com (add $3 entry fee for online processing). For more information, please call John Graham (202) 671-4013.