13th Shake and Bake 5K to support Vapor International

Runners are set to take to the shaded streets of Mt Laurel on Aug. 6 for this year’s Shake and Bake 5K.

This is the 13th year for the run, which rotates beneficiaries each year. 

Race director Bill Kreis said organizers selected Vapor International, a Sylacauga-based nonprofit, after friends introduced him to the organization. Vapor aims to establish sustainable systems in third-world environments and works to share the Christian message, alleviate poverty and build sustainable ministry centers in the communities where Vapor works.

Vapor is currently working in Kenya, Togo and Haiti, and president and COO Bill Boycott said the Shake and Bake 5K is a good fit for a partnership because it is organized by the Alabama Women’s Soccer Foundation and Vapor is a sports-based ministry which works primarily through soccer.

Kreis said they look forward to partnering with Vapor for this year’s race.

“I just know it’s going to be a good marriage for the race, and we’re looking forward to helping them raise some additional support,” he said.

The race starts at the intersection of Olmstead and Croft streets, and Kreis said the shade and soft hills make it a fun course for all runners.

“It’s a super family-friendly run,” he said. “It’s well participated by a wide range of runners, from beginning to experienced runners.”

Mt Laurel residents also get involved in the race by cheering on runners, boosting the atmosphere, Kreis said.

“The community turns out, people will be on their front porches waving and clapping,” he said. “We run through the neighborhood, so it makes for a fun, festive race.”

The race normally has between 150 and 200 runners, and Kreis said they’re hoping for an even bigger turnout this year. The race is certified, and this year it will be chipped, meaning it is electronically timed. 

There will be awards for the top two finishers in each age group and monetary awards for the top two male and female finishers. Following the race, Kreis said many participants stick around for Mt Laurel’s Farmer’s Market, and there will be refreshments provided near the finish line.

Online registration is open until Aug. 5 and costs $20. Day-of registration will be from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. and costs $25. The race will start at 8 a.m. For more information, visit shakeandbake5k.com.