Participants dash to the finish line during a past Santa’s Spirit Sprint 5K and 1-Mile Run and Walk in Barnesville. (Photo Provided)

As the holiday season continues, it’s time to prepare for the annual Santa’s Spirit Sprint 5K and 1-Mile Run and Walk on Saturday afternoon.

Both races will begin and end at The Rock gymnasium, located at 440 Watt Ave. in Barnesville. The 1-mile race starts at 2 p.m., while the 5K race begins at 2:30 p.m.

Race Director Carl Kondrach said he strives to make the event racer-friendly.

“What makes our races unique is that we get people from all over — from Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Columbus, Charleston and all around — because it’s been described as a runner-friendly race,” he said. “And what that means is, yes, we want to raise money for charity, but we don’t do it at the expense of the participants.”

Kondrach added that he makes it a priority to ensure that the participants are getting the value for their money.

Participants will receive a T-shirt, Christmas ornament, free food, door prizes and custom-made trophies. Kondrach said that if racers participate in both races, they will get a challenge medal for finishing both races.

“We try to make sure you’re getting value for your money because races are expensive,” Kondrach said.

Registration for the races is $30 for the 5K and $21 for the 1-mile run. To participate in both races, Kondrach offers a joint registration deal priced at $41 for both races.

Funds raised from the races will go toward providing Christmas gifts to families in need during the holiday season. Kondrach said when starting the race with friends, organizers came up with the idea to contact area schools asking to be informed of students who may be in need during the holidays.

“And we will go out and do everything we can to buy almost everything within reason on their wish list,” he said.

Kondrach added that anyone with any questions can contact Jessica at 740-238-1833 or him at 740-310-2117.