Runners in Step for Eighth Annual TAMIU Dusty Fun Run & Walk, Nov. 9

Runners are getting into shape for Texas A&M International University's eighth annual "Dusty Fun Run and Walk" benefiting student scholarships set Saturday, Nov. 9 on the TAMIU campus.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with competitive 5K and 10K runs and a non-competitive 2-mile Fun Walk starting at 8:30 a.m. The event will begin in front of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library. Last year's offering attracted over 250 runners and walkers.

This year's event will also be "child friendly" with the continuation of a competitive group for children ages 12 and under. Upon request, "running buddies" -- student volunteers from the University's various sports teams and other student organizations -- are available for young participants to ensure maximum safety. Children 12 and under will also receive a special certificate of participation as well as an official Dusty Fun Run and Walk T-Shirt.

Additionally, fun children's games will be set up for young participants.

Entry fee for children ages 12 and under is $5. Entry fee for students and persons ages 65 and over is $10. Entry fee for adults is $20. All paid participants receive an official Dusty Fun Run and Walk T-Shirt.

Competing groups for both male and female participants in the 5K or 10K runs is as follows: ages 12 and under, 13 - 16, 17 - 20, 21 - 29, 30 - 39, 40 - 49, 50 - 59, 60 - 69, and 70 - and above. This year, new competitive categories include student organizations and corporations.

Trophies will be awarded in 5K and 10K categories to the top three finishers in each competing age group and the overall top female and male finishers.

Current sponsors for the Fun Run include Commerce Bank, Falcon International Bank, International Bank of Commerce, Fosters Engineering Company, Lula Morales Realty, Mercy Health Plans, Frances Salinas, Richard Sames, Sanchez Oil & Gas, and Fargo Bank

Groups or individuals interested in partnering with the University to support the event can contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 326.2168.

For additional information, please contact Coach Sandra Forestier in the University's Athletics Department at 326.2901, visit offices located in the Kinesiology Convocation Building, Room 107 or e-mail sforestier@tamiu.edu

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu