Fifth-annual King County Park's Big Backyard 5K, June 1, features live music, kids dash, more

Presented by Group Health, this fun family event benefits King County Parks

Join with friends, family and fellow outdoors enthusiasts in a fun event that supports King County Parks – the Big Backyard 5K presented by Group Health, June 1 at Marymoor Park.
The Big Backyard 5K starts at 9 a.m. and takes participants through beautiful Marymoor Park at the northern end of Lake Sammamish. The course follows the Marymoor Connector Trail and a portion of the East Lake Sammamish Trail. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome.
A free kids’ dash featuring King County’s environmental mascot Bert the Salmon follows the fun run at 10 a.m., and then it’s time for the awards ceremony at 10:15 a.m.
“Our fifth-annual Big Backyard 5K is a tradition that hundreds of people look forward to every year, and it’s a great opportunity to spend some time with friends and family in our most-popular park,” said King County Parks Director Kevin Brown.
“Group Health is excited to continue as a long-time sponsor of the Big Backyard 5K. We believe that participating in fun events like these motivate people to get and stay healthy,” said Theresa Tamura, community engagement strategist for Group Health.
For just $25, entrants will receive an event t-shirt, plus food, drinks and more on race day. Registration for the 2014 run is easy – sign up online at www.bby5k.com. Funds raised by the 5K help leverage King County taxpayers’ investment in parks, trails and open space by keeping these features open and safe for all to enjoy.
Everyone who signs up to participate by Feb. 7 can purchase a hoody for just $5, courtesy of Harborstone Credit Union. Entry fees for the remainder of February are $25 and include a t-shirt; fees increase by $5 for each month up until race day, when day-of-race registration will cost $40 and won’t include a shirt. Entry fees include a timing chip, food and drinks.
Looking for more incentive to sign up? How about cash? Break the course record (16:18 for men, 20:15 for women), and you’ll win $100.
The Big Backyard 5K promotes fitness and community involvement, and has raised more than $125,000 for King County Parks.