Thousands to run in Austin to help send disadvantaged kids to summer camp
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Thousands of runners will gather Sunday, May 4, at Vic Mathias Auditorium Shores to raise money for Austin Sunshine Camps.
All proceeds from the Austin Sunshine Run go directly to the camps, which provide free overnight summer camp to more than 500 kids in both Zilker Park and at Lake Travis.
The run is one of several major fundraisers organized by the Austin Young Men’s Business League. The organization has more than 150 active members and has been putting on the camps since 1928.
“The mission of the Austin Sunshine Camps is to provide the magic of overnight camp without the barrier of cost,” said race co-chair Nathan Martinez.
Kids who qualify for free or reduced lunch at school or are in foster care are eligible for the camps.
Campers who are eight-years-old go for seven days and six nights, while those 10 to 15 stay even longer, for 10 days and nine nights. Families of nine-year-olds can pick which option works best for them.
“Traditional summer camp can be very expensive,” Martinez said. “We’re taking away that barrier and allowing them to come in here for summer and just have a really great time.”
Race fees range from $60 for the 10K down to $10 for the Kids K.
The Tomlinson’s Fastest Dog in Austin 5K is also part of the event, adding a pet-friendly option at 7:55 a.m., five minutes before the 5K and 10K races begin.
After crossing the finish line, runners will be treated to an expo with complimentary food and drinks.
Awards will be given to the top three fastest male and female runners in their age bracket.
