BAY MINETTE — Chili cookers and runners across the county are preparing for the 2010 Chilly Run and Chili Cookoff Feb. 20 at the Kids' Park in Bay Minette.

The event is hosted by the Bay Minette Rotary Club and the Heritage Junior Women's Club and will benefit the North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education.

The Coalition provides grants to local teachers for supplies, materials and other necessities not funded by the system.

The Chilly Run will consist of a 5K run and race walk and a 1 mile run. The 5K will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the 1 mile at 10. Registration postmarked by Feb. 12 is $18, $12 for students. All those registering after Feb. 12 will pay $20.

Water stations will be set up along the route and chili, fruit, snacks and other drinks will be available afterward. Packets can be picked up Feb. 19 at the North Baldwin Infirmary Wellness Center or race day at the Kids' Park.

Awards will be given to the top three overall winners of the 5K run, as well as the top male and female in each of three divisions - Masters (age 40-49); Grand Masters (age 50-59) and Senior Grand Masters (60 and up).

Additionally, the top three male and female contestants in the 5K race walk and the 1 mile fun run will receive awards.

The school with the highest percentage of student participation will be awarded $200 and a plaque.

The chili cookoff will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include prizes for best overall chili, best non-chili chili, hottest chili, crowd favorite and more.

Individuals, teams, clubs or organizations can enter for an entry fee of $25. Cookers must furnish their own table, decorations, propane gas cooker and four gallons of chili.

Admission is $5 to sample chili.