An Olympic runner like Todd Williams--whose achievements include a world class 27:31 10K and 2:11 marathon---is often expected to share his methods for beating the competition when he comes to an event like the upcoming Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Run/Walk.

But Todd Williams will have a different message at the Kentlands/Lakelands event, to be held August 30 starting in Market Square in the Kentlands neighborhood of Gaithersburg. His message: running, walking and fitness programs are important for everyone, no matter what your age or motivation.

An unlikely topic for a runner who spent years preparing and competing for Olympic and world class races? "Not really," Williams says. "Of course, I think healthy competition is a very important way to bring out the best in people. But you have to maintain your fitness program throughout life in order to reap the health benefits. So my goal is to encourage people to find out what motivates them to stay in shape. If that means training and racing for a PR or breaking the course record, then go for it. But if running with family and friends is what motivates you for fitness, then do what works for you."

Williams added: "The Kentlands/Lakelands 5K is a great event for runners who enjoy racing against topflight competition, as well as folks who just want to run with family, friends and neighbors."

For Williams, the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K will be his first foray into "recreational" running after retiring from competitive racing last year. "It's certainly going to be a change for me after so many years of intense competitive running," Todd noted. "But my focus is no longer winning on the track--it's to encourage others to run, walk, go to the gym, or do whatever it takes to get and stay healthy. By running recreationally, I'm hoping to set an example for others."

Steve Solbeck, Co-Race Director of the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run, noted that Williams' reputation, as a promoter of the health benefits of running is one reason why the Race Committee invited him to appear at this year's race. "The Kentlands/Lakeland 5K run and walk is a community event designed to bring people together," he said. "So while we wanted to bring in a runner with outstanding athletic credentials, we also wanted someone who would be able to communicate effective ways to stay fit and healthy. Todd Williams fits both criteria."

Fitness for Life Program
Williams will also be the spokeperson for the Kentlands/Lakelands Running For Life program in schools throughout Gaithersburg in the days prior to the race, and at the race itself on Saturday, August 30, beginning at 8 am.

"The program is a way to help educate people about the health benefits of running and walking for both adults and children," said Co-Race Director Jill Clawson.

Clawson noted that the most important accomplishment of Todd Williams' visit to Gaithersburg may be motivating young people to start a running and fitness program. "Most kids really admire Olympic athletes," she said. "So when an Olympic runner like Todd Williams tells them to give running and exercise a try, there's a very good chance kids will do just that--and hopefully stay fit throughout their lives."

Solbeck said the Kid's Fun Run for children (age 14 & under) will continue to be one of most important aspects of the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K this year, as it has been in the past nine years. "We want kids to choose a distance that is comfortable for them," he said. "Kids are eligible to select between two distances for the Kids' Fun Runs around Market Square--approximately 1/4 mile (recommended for ages 7 and under) and approximately 1/2 mile (recommended for ages 8-14 yrs)."

The fun runs are untimed and will incorporate multiple heats (wave starts) for each run to accommodate the hundreds of children who are expected to participate. Start time is 8:00 am. All kids' fun runners will receive a ribbon. Only pre-registered entrants will be guaranteed a T-shirt.

The 5K Run/Walk will follow at 8:30 am, shortly after the Kids' Fun Runs.

VIP Dinner with Todd Williams and Mayor Katz
Todd Williams and Gaithersburg Mayor Sydney Katz will also be among the other honored guests at the dinner to be held Friday, August 29th at O'Donnell's Restaurant, 311 Kentlands Blvd, Gaithersburg. At the dinner, Williams will speak about the Running For Life program and what his experience as an Olympic athlete taught him about the importance of running and fitness.

The dinner is open to everyone, but availability is limited. Minimum suggested donation of $40 per person includes dinner, tax and gratuity. Availability is limited, so sign up online at www.kentlands.org/5K/5k.html , or call (301) 519-1650 for more information.

For more details about the Kentlands/Lakelands 5K, please visit www.kentlands.org/5K/5k.html .

There are two ways to register for this race:
Get instant confirmation of your entry when you register online with SignMeUp Sports!
www.signmeup.com/20621

You may register by mail by printing an application and submitting it to the race committee. Follow this link for the printable entry form.
www.kentlands.org/5K/5k.html