Mendocino County Human Race 2016

“Beginning over 10 years ago, the Human Race event was the seed of a big movement towards community 5k events across Mendocino County. That’s one of the reasons that Healthy Mendocino is proud to report on the positive data showing our county as a leader in ‘Access to Exercise Opportunities,’ “ reports Patrice Mascolo, Healthy Mendocino Coordinator. (View the indicator for "Access to Exercise Opportunities".) Read more about the Mendo Human Race from Ian Fitzpatrick, co-coordinator of the Mendo Human Race, below.

Yes, it’s that time of the year again! On Saturday, May, 7th the community will come together to support local non-profits with the annual Mendo Human Race. The event is an opportunity to walk or run a 5K with 600 of your closest neighbors, dance outside to the music of DJ Ryan in downtown Ukiah, and fundraise together - all in celebration of building a stronger, healthier community.

The event is a 5K walk or timed run, and fundraiser, that supports local charities by raising funds and building community awareness. The Human Race continues to grow in popularity each year, and we’re proud to be celebrating our 11^th year here in Mendocino County. Prior to race day, local businesses, organizations, and groups of neighbors form teams and collect donations in support of their favorite Mendocino or Lake County non-profit. Thousands of people have participated over the years and hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised.

The event is fun and effective way to raise money for local charities. These organizations provide many needed services our residents. Without funding many non-profits would have to cut services or close their doors. The event allows us to collectively offer support to these fine organizations.

People participate in the Human Race for different reasons. Some are motivated to raise funds for a local charity that’s close to their heart. (There’s even a contest for the teams and individuals that raise the most money.)

Others participate for health-related purposes. Vivian Varela is a great example of someone who used the Human Race to reach her health goals. Prior to last year, she hadn’t ever attempted a 5k but was determined to give it a shot. In this brief interview, she explains how she was inspired to sign-up for the run and how she leaned on her teammates to help her finish the race.

Registration begins on 8 am at Alex Thomas Plaza at the corner of School and Clay St. Registration includes a free t-shirt to each person that raises at least $25, along with fruit and light snacks to fuel up. DJ Ryan of Tah Dah Productions will provide the entertainment with a mix of music, dancing, and fun. The race begins with runners leaving the plaza at 9 a.m., followed by walkers on the 5K course that winds through the streets of Ukiah including two laps around Todd Grove Park. All participants are expected to return to the plaza by 10:30 where DJ Ryan will keep the fun going. In addition to checking out the Saturday Ukiah Farmers’ Market, you can find our marketplace of informational booths about key community programs.

You can also be on the look-out for Healthy Mendocino’s new program, “Small Steps to Big Changes” which will be a resource guide and provide ideas – big and small – for taking the small steps towards health that you can tailor to fit your needs and interests. This guide will provide a listing of local resources found in each community in Mendocino County – everything from walking trails and healthy eating workshops, to whale watching spots and fitness retreats. During the event, you’ll find some tips and examples you can use to stay healthy.

For the second year in a row, we will host a “kids race” for children 9 and under in the plaza upon completion of the main event. Each child that participates will receive a free pair of Mendo Human Race sunglasses. The Active 20-30 Club of Ukiah will serve a lunch of John Ford Ranch all-natural hot dogs served on The Alley Grill buns (vegetarian available). An awards ceremony will take place at 11 am when awards for top runners will be given out along with prizes for best-decorated T-shirts.

Last year there were over 50 teams and over 600 walkers/runners. Help us top those numbers and have the best year ever! Click here to get all the details and to sign up. We look forward to seeing you at the starting line on May 7^th!  

Join the Mendo Human Race on Facebook for news and updates.

Ian Fitzpatrick, and his firm Radiant Tribes, is contracted with NCO to coordinate the Mendo Human Race and the Grown Local Mendo Lake branding campaign.