Local riders, runners prepare for Saturday’s 3 Rivers fundraiser

LATER START: Runners and walkers participating in the 3 Rivers fundraiser will start at 10 a.m. for the half-marathon or noon for those in the 5-kilometer or 10-kilometer run/walks.

Bicycle riders competing in Saturday’s 3 Rivers fundraising ride will have to get up early.

The first wave of riders will leave the Pioneer Park starting area at 6 a.m.

The runners will be able to sleep in Saturday morning. The 3 Rivers running/walking events will start at noon (5-kilometer and10-kilometer). The half-marathon will start at 10 a.m.

“We have something for everybody including a 10K for runners and a 5K for walkers, a half marathon, a 70 mile bike and a century bike for teams and individuals.  For those that do not want to bike 70 or 100 miles, you can choose a shorter route,” said event director Mary Ellen LaBerge.

“This is a charity event.  We ask that each participant collect as many pledges as possible,” she added. The event has a goal of raising $18,000 this year.

According to LaBerge, all proceeds from the fundraiser will go to The Shelter from the Storm, Mayday, or Safe Harbors, depending on which program is in the area.