The NIKETOWN 5K and NikeGo 1 Mile Kids Run/Walk comes to Seattle and surrounding communities encouraging activity among youth and to raise funds for individual schools in Seattle County. The race is a part of Nike’s overall national initiative dedicated to local communities and school PE, play and athletic programs.

Runners and walkers take off on the inaugural run/walk event on Saturday, May 12th at NIKETOWN Seattle. Unlike other fundraising runs, 100 percent of the entry fee will be donated to the school PE, play and athletic program of each entrant’s choice. This provides students and their families the opportunity to raise funds for physical education and playground equipment for their individual schools. With 4,000 participants, $60,000 is expected to be raised for Seattle schools.

Begun in Honolulu in 2000, the success of this community event expanded to Las Vegas, Atlanta and Denver in 2006 and this year will hold inaugural runs in Boston, Miami, Portland and Seattle. In all, these events have raised nearly $772,000 for schools across the United States.

“The success of the NIKETOWN 5K really validates Nike’s efforts to keep kids healthy by providing equipment and resources that keep them active,” says NIKETOWN Store Manager Sean Walker. “We look forward to bringing the race to the city of Seattle and extending our commitment to this community.”

The top finishers in each age division will receive awards. The NikeGo 1-Mile Run/Walk option for kids and participating parents will take kids on a healthy trip around through Seattle. Finishers age 18 and under will receive a “Give 100%” Finishers Medal and a Nike gift bag of gear to help keep them active.

The registration fee is $20, including a $15 entry fee, plus an additional $5 for a NIKETOWN 5K t-shirt. Entry forms are available at NIKETOWN at 1500 Sixth Avenue in Seattle. Online entries and more information are available at www.niketown5k.com. For specific Seattle information, call (206) 447-6452 or e-mail niketown5k.seattle@nike.com.