Running (and walking) for a cause

Last week’s L.A. Marathoners might not want to put their running shoes away quite yet. The 8th annual “Victory for Victims 5k and 10k Run/Walk” will be held April 11 at Lake Balboa in Encino and benefit the Northridge Hospital’s Center for Assault Treatment Services (CATS). CATS is the only 24/7 child and sexual abuse treatment program in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys.

Runners will travel through the newly completed Bull Creek Channel Ecosystem Restoration Path, home to hundreds of wildlife species. As an official “cool-down” event to the Marathon, the Run/Walk will feature 2,000 runners, culminating in a finish line festival for all attendees.

Several Los Angeles and sports personalities are expected to attend the event, including Olympic Decathlon gold medalist Rafer Johnson and L.A. City Councilmember Tony Cardenas. The Laker Girls will lead aerobic exercises and food will be provided by such vendors as Los Toros Mexican Restaurant, Jamba Juice and Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream.

Fundraising and registration details are available at www.abuse-assaultservices.org.

Posted 3/25/10