Saturday trail race benefits Jefferson City Rotaract

Kickin' for five years

Runners start at the fifth annual Kicks in the Sticks trail run fundraiser Saturday, Aug. 13, 2016 at Binder Lake.
Runners start at the fifth annual Kicks in the Sticks trail run fundraiser Saturday, Aug. 13, 2016 at Binder Lake.

Jefferson City Rotaract hosted the fifth annual Kicks in the Sticks trail Run Saturday at Binder Park.

Participants chose to run or walk a 1.2-, 3.5- or 7.5-mile course on a mountain bike trail through the woods.

Rotaract has attempted to create an ambiance akin to a festival with food, drinks and live music in addition to the trail run.

The event raises funds for Rotaract's service partners, the Helping Arts Liberate Orphans (HALO) Foundation and Central Missouri Community Action Center Cole East Head Start. The partners will receive proceeds from the entry fees.

Unique awards are made by children from the HALO Foundation for the top finishers in the competitions.

This year, the Jefferson City Rotaract is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The club is dedicated to serving the community and giving service above self. It also gives young professionals, usually ages 30 years and under, an opportunity to meet other people their age, build friendships and connect with their community.