Free beer, doughnuts will be handed out at Texas town’s 0.5K charity run

Charity runs are a fun and healthy way to raise money and awareness for many worthy causes. But, for those of us not sure we’re up to the challenge of a long-distance run, it can be a little intimidating to sign up to participate. Well, one town decided to host a race that just about anyone can complete.

Introducing the 0.5K race. Yes, you read that correctly — that’s a half-kilometer race!

‘The Running Event For The Rest Of Us’

The city of Boerne, Texas will host the 0.5K race on May 5 to benefit a local charity called Blessings In a Backpack, which works with communities to “ensure impoverished elementary school children are fed on the weekends throughout the school year.”

Check out the event’s incredible poster below.

Non-runners will be relieved to discover that, in terms of distance, 0.5 kilometers equals a little more than 500 yards, or the length of three New York City subway trains.

Dubbed “The Running Event for the Rest of Us,” the race takes a tongue-in-cheek poke at more traditional 5K charity runs. Everything from the race course itself, to safety precautions, to the refreshments are meant to bring a smile to the racers.

The Race Course

The starting line for the race is located across the street from a pub, which will generously offer a free pint of beer before the event gets underway. During the race, “runners” can stop to replenish fluids and carbs at a coffee and doughnut station. After all, hydration and carb-loading are important for any endurance activity, right? The race ends near a brewery, where another free beer awaits the participants.

Costume Contest

Participants are encouraged to dress up for the race. Prizes for individual and group costumes will be awarded at the event. According to the official event description on Facebook, “cool sunglasses, cowboy hats, short shorts, [San Antonio] Spurs gear, pajamas, you name it. Come dressed for fun!”

Safety First

Of course, organizers want to let racers know that safety is important by providing a “possibly fully staffed, or not staffed at all, medical tent … just in case, [because] 546 yards is nothing to take too lightly.”

Race Bling

No race is complete without some great bling to take home. The 0.5K will have participation medals because “everyone gets recognized for their achievements at this event, no matter how bad they are, because we are all about positivity and self-worth.” T-shirts, and a 0.5K sticker are also provided to runners.

People Raced To Sign Up

Much to the surprise of organizers, the race quickly sold out! Organizers posted on the race website that the event reached permit capacity and insurance coverage limits. However, plans are already in the works for the second annual 0.5K race in 2019, which will likely see even more participants.

Underachievers who waited too long to sign up for this year’s event can take advantage of the Procrastinators Prize Pack. For $25, wannabe racers can “pretend like they participated in the race” and still get the t-shirt, medal and sticker!

This race sponsors a cause that is well worth the run, no matter how long (or short) it might be! Do you think you could handle a 0.5K?