XTERRA to host weekend of runs, sprints

Whether it’s a half-marathon, 10K, 5K or sprint, there will be a little something for everyone at Oak Mountain State Park this May.

On May 21 and 22, XTERRA is hosting multiple runs and triathlon events.

May 21 is the 11th edition of XTERRA in Shelby County, and the race will serve as a qualifier for the 2016 XTERRA World Championship. The event includes a 1.5-kilometer swim, 30-kilometer mountain bike section and a 10-kilometer trail run. There also will be $15,000 in prize money up for grabs for elite athletes.

A shorter distance sprint race will be available with a 750-meter swim, 15-kilometer mountain bike section and 5-kilometer trail run as well as a beginner’s Xticer program. This program is supported with the “Couch to Trails” program and includes a 200-meter swim, 10-kilometer bike ride and a 2-kilometer trail run.

On May 22, there will be 5K, 10K and 20K trail runs, with the 5K being a walk/run. Winners from all age groups in the 20K run will receive free entry to the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in Hawaii in December.

Both days also include the Paul Mitchell Cut-a-thon, where Paul Mitchell stylists will give haircuts in exchange for a $15 or more donation to the Challenged Athletes Foundation.

In addition to registration rates, park entry fees are $5 per adult and $2 for children ages 4 to 11 or for seniors ages 62 and up.

Registration rates and more information are available at xterraplanet.com.

XTERRA runs schedule

May 20

► 2-6 p.m.: Registration and packet pickup for all events.

May 21

► 6:30-8 a.m.: Late packet pickup.

► 8 a.m.: Xticer Start.

► 8:10 a.m.: XTERRA Sprint Start.

► 8:20 a.m.: XTERRA Oak Mountain Full Course Start.

► 9 a.m.-1 p.m.: Paul Mitchell Cut-a-thon.

May 22

► 6:30-7:30 a.m.: Late registration and packet pickup.

► 8 a.m.-1 p.m.: XTERRA Expo open.

► 8 a.m.: 5K Trail run/walk.

► 8:10 a.m.: 10K trail run.

► 8:20 a.m.: 20K trail run.

► 9 a.m.-noon: Paul Mitchell Cut-a-thon.