Runners will step out in style on Saturday, March 12.
"It's fast," said Laura Kopp, president and CEO of the Center for Active Seniors, Inc. (CASI). "It's flat, and it's fun."
The St. Patrick's Race is ready to celebrate its 34th year in Davenport.
It hopes to collect more than $70,000 for CASI.
"Everything from people dressing up in St. Patrick's garb to just the excitement of being out and about in the sunshine," she continued.
In this Gift of Giving, a portion of March sales at Necker's will go to CASI.
The event features three races that offer fun for the whole family.
Everybody celebrates just before the big parade.
"It's a little bit easier," Kopp said. "It kind of eases you into your training regimen for the rest of the year."
The race is even more important because it's the major fundraiser for CASI.
"There's something here for everybody to do," said staffer and participant Jan Dorgan.
CASI gets about 200 visitors each day at its 1035 W. Kimberly Rd. location in Davenport.
For the body, there's a fitness room to serve all levels.
Several folks stop by six days a week.
Some do so well that they can eliminate taking some medicine.
"What CASI really brings is the opportunity to live younger longer," Kopp said.
For the mind, a regular book club is part of the varied activities.
It's a chance to discuss the latest bestseller while sharing smiles and stories with friends.
"It gets them up and out," Dorgan continued. "It gives them a place to go. It's a reason to get up in the morning."
That makes the annual run even more meaningful.
Each step is helping seniors.
"Having a 5K race that is focused on health and wellness, staying active and engaged, I think, is a great way to spread our message," Kopp concluded.
For this race, it's a message about life.
To register or learn more about the races, check http://www.casiseniors.org.