Valentine’s Day can be full of love, chocolate and romance for many, but one Jackson County organization wants everyone to add exercise to that list.

Leadership Jackson County will conduct its fourth annual ValenTimes 5K and 10K run/walk at 9 a.m. Saturday, which also happens to be Valentine’s Day. The course begins and ends at Seymour High School and winds through nearby residential neighborhoods.

Monday was the last day to sign up online, but participants can sign up the morning of the race. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the cost is $25. A limited number of dry wick running shirts will be available.

Besides the overall and age group awards, there will be door prizes and special awards for the fastest couples in each category.

All proceeds from the event go to YoJack and Leadership Jackson County, which are Jackson County’s youth and adult leadership programs.

“This event is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” said race director Chris Marks. “We hope everybody that comes out has a fun and safe run or walk.”

Marks said during past events some participants mentioned it was their first race to try, and others have said they managed to beat their personal-best time.

“It’s great to be a part of someone’s personal accomplishment,” he said.

Besides exercise, the race increases awareness of the adult and youth leadership programs and the positive impact they have on the community, Marks said.

So far, about 100 people have signed up, and Marks said he anticipates a significant number of participants to register the morning of the race. Ideally, organizers would like to have about 250 runners and walkers.

Last year, the event had to be canceled because of winter weather. The organizers tried to reschedule several times, but the cold, snowy winter never let up.

Marks said he hopes for nice weather this weekend.

“We received a lot of supportive feedback from registered runners and walkers after the cancellation, and we’re very grateful for everyone who is coming back to support us again this year,” Marks said.

This race is an Indiana Timing Race Series event (formerly Crossroads of Indiana Race Series).

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For information, call 812-522-4020 or 812-343-6117, email [email protected] or visit indianatiming.com.

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ValenTimes 5K and 10K run/walk

Registration begins at 8 a.m. Saturday at Seymour High School. Race starts at 9 a.m.

Proceeds fund YoJack and Leadership Jackson County.

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