Get on your feet: Walks, runs abound this month

Whether it’s an afternoon stroll through Railroad Park or an early-morning run through the streets of downtown, there is no shortage of options for those looking to get involved while getting active this month.

Noojin & White Race to the Courthouse

► When: Saturday, Sept. 9, 8 a.m.

► Where: YMCA of Greater Birmingham, Downtown Branch, 2101 FourthAve. N.

Beginning and ending at the downtown branch of YMCA of Greater Birmingham, this year’s Race to the Courthouse 5K and one-mile fun run will support the YMCA’s financial assistance program that prevents anyone from being turned away from the organization’s offerings because of the inability to pay.

There will also be a “sleep in” option for supporters to donate and participate in the event without losing a Saturday morning snooze.

Registration ranges from $20-$45 depending on the event chosen and whether or not registration is made before Sept. 8. For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/AL/Birmingham/TheNoojinWhiteRacetotheCourthouse5K

Monkey C Monkey Run 5K

► When: Saturday, Sept. 16, 8 a.m.

► Where: Smile-A-Mile Place, 1600 Second Ave. S.

The annual Monkey C Monkey Run 5K has moved from Homewood Central Park to downtown Birmingham. It will start and finish at Smile-A-Mile Place on Second Avenue South.

The event, which also includes a 1-mile fun run at 9 a.m., benefits the Smile-A-Mile pediatric cancer support organization. According to its description, the group’s mission is to “provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey.”

Registration is $30 for the 5K and $20 for the fun run. There also is a $30 sleep-in option for those who wish to support the organization without physically participating. Pre-registration ends Sept. 14, while race day registration begins at 6:30 a.m.

For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/AL/Birmingham/MonkeyCMonkeyRun5k.

St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer

► When: Saturday, Sept. 23

► Where: Railroad Park

Along with cities across the country, Birmingham will be running and walking to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, so that the hospital can continue its practice of never turning away a family due to the inability to pay for medical care.

The event will include a 5K and a walk, and all ages are welcome. Registration is $20 for the 5K and $10 for the walk, while children 5 years old and under are free.

The Birmingham event has a fundraising goal of $125,000. For more details about the event or to register, visit fundraising.stjude.org.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

► When: Sunday, Sept. 24, 3 p.m.

► Where: Railroad Park

The two-mile Walk to End Alzheimer’s supports the efforts of the Alabama chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association with its mission of care, support and research.

While there is no fee to participate in the walk, registrants are encouraged to make a personal donation in support of the association, and to fundraise. 

Registrants who raise $100 or more receive a T-shirt that can be picked up the day of the event.For more information or to register, visit act.alz.org.

Magic City AIDSWalk & 5K Run

► When: Sunday, Sept. 24, 4 p.m.

► Where: Railroad Park

Hosted by Birmingham AIDS Outreach, the 26th annual walk and run will benefit the group’s efforts to raise funds and awareness for the fight against HIV and AIDS in the greater Birmingham area.

The family-friendly event will honor those who have been lost and celebrate those still fighting through a one-mile fun walk and 5K run through Railroad Park, as well as with a business fair, free health screenings, a kids’ activity area and live entertainment.

Registration for the 5K is $25 per runner, which includes a T-shirt, and all participants are encouraged to start a fundraising page.

For more information and to register, visit birminghamaidsoutreach.org/aids-walk-5k-run.

Sistah Strut

► When: Saturday, Sept. 30, 7 a.m.

► Where: Legion Field

Brenda’s Brown Bosom Buddies are getting together again this year to strut their stuff and commune with kindred spirits while also raising support for the community fighting breast cancer.

The 5K at Legion Field can be completed by running, walking, strolling or, of course, strutting by anyone who decides to come.

Registration is $30 in advance or $45 the day of, and registrants will receive a fish and grits meal. However, all are encouraged to attend, even if affording the entrance fee is an issue.

For more information and to register, visit brendasbrownbosombuddies.org.

– Sam Chandler contributed to this article.