By Morgan Bryce
Associate Editor
The 13th annual ‘Unforgettable Footsteps Mardi Gras 5K and 1-Mile Walk’ will be held Feb. 10 at Municipal Park in Opelika, beginning at 8 a.m.
Presented by the Lee-Russell Council of Government’s Area Agency on Aging and Auburn-Opelika Running and Track Association, the event serves as a fundraiser to meet the needs of area seniors, according to LRCG Alabama Cares Coordinator Lisa Askew.
“They (the proceeds) are used to help our seniors and families dealing with Alzheimer’s and dementia, to supplement services that they might need. Some examples include the construction of wheelchair ramps, purchase of adult incontinence supplies, in-home services and prescription assistance,” Askew said.
Through AORTA, Askew said that an average of nearly 75-100 people participate in the run/walk each year, which runners can use as a qualifier to obtain marathon points for eligibility to compete in larger races nationwide.
Auburn University mascot Aubie will be at the event, and Chick-fil-A will provide a catered breakfast for those in attendance.
Advanced registration is $25, and can be done online at www.active.com/opelika-al/running/distance-running/unforgettable-footsteps-mardi-gras-5k-and-1-mile-walk-2018, or by calling the Opelika branch of LRCG at 334-749-5264. Day-of registration is $30, and will be held at Municipal Park.