MAGNOLIA SPRINGS, Ala. — Running enthusiasts will be hot footing it to Magnolia Springs this Saturday for the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s ninth annual Magnolia Run.

According to South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Director of Events Kristin Roberson, participants have two opportunities to take part, with a 5K run/walk starting at 8 a.m. and a 1-mile fun run beginning at 9 a.m.

“Registration starts at 6:30 a.m.,” she said in a telephone interview.

However, participants can pre-register, as well, for a discounted entry fee. Pre-registration forms are available at the Chamber office, 112 W. Laurel Ave., Foley, by calling 251-943-3291 or by visiting www.southbaldwinchamber.com. 

“T-shirts are guaranteed to all participants who pre-register,” Roberson said in a news release, adding that a limited number of T-shirts will be available for those who wait to register until Saturday.

Both races will begin and end at Jessie’s Restaurant, with the certified courses winding down Oak Street and through the heart of Magnolia Springs. Roberson explained that afterward, awards will be presented in various age groups.

“Post-race activities include live music, food, beverages and lots of door prizes,” she said in a news release.

Since its inception, the Magnolia Run has attracted participants from not South Baldwin County, but from Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Louisiana.

“There were over 300 runners last year,” Roberson said in the telephone interview.

She pointed out that even in its short history, the Magnolia Run has undergone some changes.

“One of the things we’ve done for the last two years is placing an emphasis on the 1-mile fun run,” Roberson said.

That emphasis comes in the form using a portion of the race’s registration fee to benefit the Foley High School feeder pattern.

“For any school that participates, including St. Benedict, we donate $1 back to that school,” she said, adding that the donation is used for the school’s physical education program.

For more information, call 251-943-3291 or visit www.southbaldwinchamber.com.