Jacey's Race set for biggest event yet

SANDPOINT — Another year brings another chance to raise money and awareness for families affected by illness, and the folks at Jacey’s Race are up to the task.

Organizers are anticipating the biggest turnouts in the event’s history as they prepare for this year’s offerings, which include 5K and 1K races. What started as 200-runner race has expanded into an institution that brought in more than 800 participants last year. This year, they hope to break the 1,000 runner threshold.

“We already have more runners pre-registered for this year than we had altogether in 2007,” said Nanci Jenkins, whose daughter Jacey Ray Lawson provides the namesake and inspiration for the event.

This latest year brings a range of logistical improvements to the race. For the first time, participants can show up at Sandpoint High School 4-7 p.m. on July 13 to pick up their race packet and T-shirt. This saves time on the morning of the race and also allows runners to ensure their shirt is appropriately sized.

Meanwhile, running enthusiasts can be assured they won’t lose a competitive edge based on their distance from the starting line. According to Jenkins, Jacey’s Race is introducing chip timing to the event. This ensures that a runner’s individual time doesn’t begin until they cross the starting line — good news for those positioned toward the back of the crowd.      

Of course, Jacey’s Race is an event for more than hardcore marathon runners, Jenkins added. Many people choose to take both the 5K and 1K at an easier pace. Family members often attend to lend support to their runners or take in the Sponsors Expo.

This year will be particularly good for side activities, with attractions like a chili cook-off, inflatable castle,  caricature artist, dunk tank and silent auction providing fun for just about everyone.

“We’ve become almost a festival at this point, so we’ve really expanded the expo,” Jenkins said.

While it’s easy to get lost in all the fun and activity, Jenkins and other event coordinators never forget it’s all to help kids going through some serious struggles. This year, Jacey’s Race is benefiting four individuals: Christina McClelland, Olivia Morton, Joshua Holub and Gillian Billingsley. Each individual is battling a life-threatening disease, and the race’s proceeds will go to benefit their families. Jacey’s Race also serves as a celebration of their lives, and officials work to make the day a special one for them with gifts and other considerations.

“We try to find out the things each one likes,” Jenkins said. “We want to give them something to look forward to.”

Jacey’s Race is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Sunday, July 14 at Sandpoint High School, and pre-registration is already open for the event. This can be done online — www.jaceys-race.com — or entry forms and checks can be mailed to Jacey’s Race Fund, 471 Ravenwood Dr., Sandpoint, ID 83864. In-person sign-ups are available at Bonner General Hospital, Cor24 Fitness, Alpine Shop, Stacey’s Country Kitchen and Fleet Feet Sports until July 12.

Pre-registration costs $25 for the 5K and $15 for the 1K. Registering on the day of the race increases cost to $30 and $20. Kids age 12 and under run for free.

There’s still plenty of work to be done before Jacey’s Race kicks off on July 14. Those who wish to volunteer their services should call 610-8023.