BOUNTIFUL—Kick off Handcart Days by joining in a race before the parade begins. South Davis Recreation is holding three races for both adults and children. The Handcart Half marathon starts at 5:30 a.m. followed by Frontier 5K at 6:30 a.m. and Pioneer Pete 1K at 7:30 a.m. 

“We have a shotgun start which is kind of unique,” said Sarah Johnson, South Davis Recreation and Races manager. “Pioneer Pete will help little kids in the 1K. We’ll also have race pacers for people who want to race and finish at a certain time. They'll help them meet their goal and with the overall experience of the race.”

The awards have a Handcart Days theme as well, said Johnson. “First place through third in the overall division will receive a cutting board in the shape of Utah with a map of Utah on it. Division racers in first through third place in their division will get a cowbell.”

Johnson said they have a lot of local sponsors. “They’re helping along the race route with water and an aid station.”

Racers can register in advance but they will also have same day registration, she said. “If they want to, they can.”

Johnson said they expect to see 500-600 participants. “We look forward to providing a great community event. I love to see people come out with their families. We see a lot of the same faces every year. It’s fun. It feels like a family. Our goal is to promote a healthy, active lifestyle in our community.”

To register visit active.com. For more information about the race visit southdavisraces.com.