Spring's premier racing event, the Pike's Peek 10K, will take place on Sunday, April 25, 2004, at 8 am in Rockville, Maryland. The race begins on Redland Road at the Shady Grove Metro Station and proceeds down Rockville Pike (MD Rt 355) finishing in front of White Flint Mall, the host sponsor. Designed for speed, the USATF-certified course has some rolling hills with a 190 ft. elevation drop.

In the past, the course has yielded some very fast times by both the men and women. Two American world-class runners hold the course records. In 1998, Jennifer Rhines, Pennsylvania, set the women's course record in 32:45. The next year, Dan Browne, Colorado, set the men's course record in 28:35. These records have yet to be broken. The event will award $3,350 to open and masters winners.

After the 10K is completed, the White Flint Family Fun Runs take place on the grounds of White Flint. A 1K "family fun run" for kids and their parents, and a 50-meter "toddler trot" for kids 5 and under will begin approximately 9:30 am at the main entrance of the mall. There will be games and entertainment for the children. At the post- race festival, all runners will enjoy a sumptuous post-race brunch. Non-runners may purchase a meal ticket at the festival site.

Detailed race information and registration is available on the race Web site or you may call the race hotline, (301) 460-8888 for an application.

Not running? Why not be a part of this exciting event by volunteering. No experience is necessary and if you sign up prior to race day, you'll be guaranteed a t-shirt. Volunteers can sign up on the Web site or by calling the race hotline.

The Pike's Peek 10K is conducted by the Montgomery County Road Runners Club. Event proceeds benefit the following local charities and recreational programs: Scleroderma Foundation of Greater Washington, DC; Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area; and the Montgomery County and Rockville Youth Recreation Funds.