ROSINTON, Alabama --- Get ready to “Stomp the Pavement” Saturday, March 10 when the Rosinton Runners host the 7^th Annual Armadillo Dash 5K and Fun Run at Rosinton School on County Road 64, east of Loxley.

The group, started seven years ago by science teacher Lonnie Hughes, maintains about 50 members, said current running club sponsor Whitney Stevens, who teaches physical education at the school.

“It takes a pretty big commitment on their part,” Stevens said. Stevens is assisted by teachers Tonya Lynn and Heather Duncan.

The group meets for practice every Tuesday and Thursday from 2:30 to 3 p.m. and participates in one run per month. Half of the cost is paid for by the parents, the other half is paid for by the club through fundraisers.

The Armadillo Dash is the club’s largest fundraiser with over 300 participants in last year’s race and over 200 already signed up for this year, said Rosinton School Principal Dr. Teresa Hardin.

While the deadline for early registration has already passed, it’s not too late to register.

Registration and packet pick-up will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 9 and from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. on the day of the race. Registration costs $20 for adults, $15 for students. Registration forms are available at the school, and anyone wishing more information can call 251-964-5210.

The race will begin at 9 a.m. with trophies awarded for first, second and third place male and female overall finishers, Masters (41-50), Grandmasters (51-60), Senior Grandmasters (61-plus) and walkers. Medals will be awarded for the first, second and third place male and female overall finishers in nine age groups ranging from 0-7 to 36-40. Ribbons will be awarded for first through fifth place overall male and female fun run finishers.

The 5K race features a sanctioned 3.2-mile road course through the rural terrain of the Rosinton Community which is mostly flat with a few small hills.

In addition to the run, Rosinton School will host its annual Spring Fling and silent auction held in the cafeteria  and library.

A bouncy house complete with slide will be set up outside, weather permitting, or in the gym in case of inclement weather. Other games for all ages will be available, along with arts and crafts booths, food and baked goods.

There will also be a silent auction with items donated by parents and local businesses, Hardin said.

Hardin said she is impressed that a school the size of Rosinton, which boasts approximately 300 students in grades K-6, has been able to maintain the level of participation in the group and the community support, with over 30 sponsors for the annual event.

She also wanted to express her appreciation for the local fire departments, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Department and the Baldwin County Commission for their support of the race, and a special thanks to Dr. Keith Cooper, who serves each year as the race official.