Pride of the Valley celebrates 30th run with new 10K and community challenges

The Pride of the Valley's thirtieth run is set to make a splash this year with the introduction of a new 10K race, doubling the excitement for participants. During the Baldwin Park Recreation Commission meeting, event organizer Jenny highlighted the addition of this new component, which consists of two loops around the course.

Every registered runner, whether they choose to run or walk, will receive a medal upon completion, ensuring that all participants feel celebrated. In a notable partnership, In-N-Out will sponsor the event, providing each runner with a voucher for a free meal at Burger King, enhancing the post-race experience.

Jenny detailed extensive outreach efforts that began in March, including distributing flyers at local races and running clubs, and promoting the event through email blasts and billboards along major freeways. The initiative aims to attract more participants, with a special focus on local running clubs and schools.

To encourage community involvement, several challenges have been introduced. Clubs that register 25 or more runners will have their logos featured on the race shirts, while high schools with the most registrations will receive a personalized canopy. The Baldwin Park Run Club, which offers free training sessions, has also been instrumental in fostering local participation.

Last year, Baldwin Park boasted the highest number of participants, with 260 out of 897 runners hailing from the area. This year, registration numbers are already promising, with 352 runners signed up as of the meeting date. The registration deadline is set for the morning of the race on August 2, with fees at $25 for the 5K and $31 for the 10K.

The Pride of the Valley run not only promotes fitness but also strengthens community ties, making it a highly anticipated event in Baldwin Park.