Annual Nevada Day Classic returns

Race director Tom Wion has high hopes for the 21st annual Carson Nugget Nevada Day Classic on Oct. 30.

"It's going to be the best one ever," he said.

The race takes place each year before the Nevada Day parade, and while some runners have always raced in costume, Wion would like to see it grow into a festive atmosphere with the majority of runners are dressed up.

"Not only do I want to have the fast guys out there, I want people out there in full costumes enjoying what the day is about," he said.

The gun goes off at 8:15 a.m. for 8-kilometer racers and 8:25 a.m. for the 2-mile run and walk.

The course begins on the corner of Telegraph and Curry streets and weaves through the city's historical district.

Races finish to hundreds of spectators who are lining up along Carson Street for the Nevada Day parade, which commemorates Nevada's admission into the Union.

Wion said the race offers beautiful scenery and ideal weather, but the true highlight is that it benefits the Special Olympics.

"My personal opinion is that everybody should be passionate about this organization," he said. "It keeps people active and gives opportunities to people who otherwise wouldn't have them."

Last year, the race raised $8,300 for the Special Olympics, and Wion wants to raise about $10,000 this year.

The race is sponsored by the Carson Nugget, Ascent Physical Therapy, CV Sports, Dutch Brothers, Kaia Fit and Road Runners Club of America.

It is put on by the Tahoe Mountain Milers and Sagebrush Stompers running clubs.

Entry fees are $35 before race day. Walk-in registration is $40.

A $5 discount per person is available for families of three or more, but may not be used with any other applicable discounts.

Wion said between 150 and 200 runners have registered. He's hoping to get close to 400.

"There's no better start to Nevada Day than getting out and raising money for a good cause and getting fit at the same time," Wion said.

Packet pickup and registration will be 3-7 p.m. Oct. 29 at CV Sports, 911 Topsy Lane. Miss Nevada and Miss Teen Nevada will be handing them out.

Mail registrations to Tahoe Mountain Milers, 14 W. Applegate Way, Carson City, NV 89706.

Race-day registration will be 6:45-7:45 a.m. Oct. 30 at The Nugget Casino, second story.

T-shirts are guaranteed for pre-registered runners and are available as supplies last after that.

Top finishers in 10 different age categories will receive awards during a ceremony after the race in the upstairs ballroom of the Carson Nugget Casino. Refreshments will also be provided.

The Nevada Day parade begins at 10 a.m.

For more information, or to register online, go to www.nevadaday.com/pages/runwalk.php