For the love of running: ‘Luv Me 5K’ planned

ROCKPORT — Those who love running and others who want to fall in love with it are invited to the Seasons Downeast Designs Luv Me 5K on Sunday, Feb. 12. The annual 3.1 mile event will take place at 10 a.m. at the Samoset Report at 220 Warrenton St., with registration starting at 9 a.m. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. This 5K is part of the local holiday 5K race series and organized by the non-profit One Community Many Voices.

One Community Many Voices, OCMV, based in Midcoast Maine, is a scholarship program to give people in need a "hand up," instead of a "hand out." The race is being run in collaboration with the non-profit Go! Malawi, who has organized the race series in the past.

The Seasons Downeast Designs Luv Me 5K race is one of six holiday 5Ks (3.1-mile races) the non-profit organizes. Other remaining 2017 races include The Trackside Station Lucky Leprechaun 5K in March, Summer Solstice 5K in June, Horch Roofing Labor Day 5K in September and the Trackside Station Scare Me 5K in October.

The 5K race is open to all and costs $20 on race day and $18 for those who pre-register. Pre-registration runners get five raffle tickets (instead of one for day of race registrations) to win local gift certificates and prizes. Preregistration is available online at www.Active.com or www.Runsignup.com. Prizes will be awarded for the fastest male and female finishers.

The Samoset Resort will waive the $20 day pass fee for race entrants to access The Club facilities on Feb. 12 if entrants want to use the pool, hot tub, sauna, showers and other amenities. Also, friends and family members of race participates can use the facility for a discounted fee of $15 for a day pass. Racers need to show their bib when signing in and the friends and or family members need to have the racer present (with bib in hand again) to receive the discount.

Event details and schedule

* Registration begins at 9 a.m.

* Race begins at 10 a.m.

* Cash or check only for day-of registration