Run EC set for Hooley’s on St. Patrick’s Day
The first-ever RunEC Half Marathon and 5K run/walk will be held on St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday morning, March 17. RunEC is organized by the RunEC Foundation, a non-profit that was the result of the East County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, Class of 2012.
Organizers expect more than 1,000 runners will complete a course that starts and finishes at Hooleys Pub & Grill in Rancho San Diego and doubles back at the El Cajon Promenade. Three race events will be held, including a certified half-marathon, a 5k run/walk and a “Green Mile” run for adults with developmental disabilities. Race director is La Mesa resident Kathy Loper.
Finish line festivities will feature Saint Patrick’s day-themed entertainment as a continuation of “Hooleyfest,” a celebration from the night before. Runners and guests will be treated to a light breakfast hosted by Sycuan, a “Diamond Dig” raffle sponsored by Diamond Creations by Ramona, massage chairs provided by Home & Soul, live bands, Irish entertainment and bounce houses for the kids. Food and entertainment also is planned at the El Cajon Promenade.
Proceeds will benefit the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce and several local non-profit organizations, including St. Madeline Sophie’s Center, Partnerships with Industry, Stoney’s Kids, Home of Guiding Hands and the East County Transitional Living Center. Registration and event information, including route course map, are available at www.RunEastCounty.com. Volunteer and sponsorship information also is available at the website.
East County companies sponsoring the inaugural race include Imortgage as the presenting sponsor, Barona, California Bank & Trust and Sports Authority, which will host packet pick-up at Grossmont Center in La Mesa. In addition, AMR Ambulances and XL Staffing have donated medical and security services to support the race.