September 6, 2007

Ready, set, go…

It’s nearly time for the annual Almaden Times Classic

It’s nearly time for the 14th annual Almaden Times Classic Run for Youth, to benefit the Almaden Valley Counseling Service. This year’s race is begins Sunday, Sept. 23 at 9 a.m. at the Leland High School Parking lot, 6677 Camden Ave.

Last year, nearly 540 runners turned out, eclipsing the 400 runners from the previous year. And, the event raised $20,000 dollars for the Almaden Valley Counseling Service--money that helps make the agency’s unique services available to the public.

The AVCS provides low-cost psychotherapy and counseling for people who cannot afford it elsewhere. The facility on Crown Boulevard hosts support groups and allocates 24 interns to local schools to help provide counseling. The race is one of the major fund-raisers for AVCS.

This year’s race features a 10K/2-mile run-walk through Almaden’s paved creek trail and some residential streets. A course map is available at www.avcounseling.org. There are eight age divisions including: 9 and under, 10-13, 14-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60-plus.

The four overall winners will receive gift certificates and there will be awards for the first three winners in each age division and ribbons for all children. The entry fee includes a T-shirt and random prizes will be given out based on race numbers. Runners also will receive good bags, food and drinks. Finish line photos will be available from 1-2-3 CheesE.

Pre-registration is due by Sept. 18 with prices for those registrants at $23 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. On race day the costs will be $30 for adults and $15 for children. Families, up to four people including adults and children, can pre-register for $55, or $65 on Sept. 23. A separate entry form is required for each family member.

Race numbers and shirts will be handed out on race day to all registrants. Race-day registration will open at 8 a.m. Pre-registration is recommended to guarantee a T-shirt.

This year’s sponsors include the Almaden Shopping Center, San Jose Water Company 4-D. Actel, Braddock & Logan Homes, Robson Homes, ACLIS, Westfield Shopping Towns, Classic Car Wash, PG&E, The Schoenauer Company, Mid-Peninsula Bank, Unwined, Camden Almaden Buildings, Elite Chiropractic and Sports Center, Athletic Nation, Brandenburg Family Foundation, TotalFit Solutions, Dr. Thomas McGrath, Summerhill Homes, Shappell Homes, Camilles Sidewalk Café, Ventura Barnett Properties, Sports Basement, Cindy Cockcroft and Amy McCafferty from Alain Pinel Realtors, SCC Supervisor Don Gage, Panera Bakery, Del Biaggio Family Foundation and Almaden Times Weekly.

The AVCS would also like to thank ME Fox & Co, Athletic Performance, Starbucks, McDonalds, California Pizza Kitchens, In N’ Out Burger, Sonoma Chicken Coop, Pulte Homes and Saturn for their help.

Registration forms can be found at www.avcounseling.org. For more information, call (408) 997-0200.