For those who needed added motivation to run, a Nov. 23 event has multiple enticing factors: wine, chocolate and Santa.
The first annual Race for the Chocolate 10k & 5k, hosted by the Williamsburg-Jamestown Airport, will start with a dramatic entrance from Santa Claus. There will also be falling snow and carolers to put runners in the holiday spirit.
Afterward, participants can enjoy an after party with live music, Virginia wines and fine chocolate. Santa will stick around for pictures with children.
Runners can register for either a 10k, 5k or 1k Santa Fun Run. Awards will be given for the top three finishers (male and female) and to the top three finishers in each age group.
“We are excited to bring a truly remarkable holiday experience to Williamsburg this Christmas,” said Michael Barder, spokesman for the race developer Blended Events, in a news release Nov. 1. “We have combined three truly compelling reasons to run — wine, chocolate and Santa Claus, with an opportunity to make Christmas truly special for hundreds of local children.”
There will be a collection bin at the starting line for runners or fans to deposit new, unwrapped toys. These toys will be given to Grove Christian Outreach to benefit children in need.
Registration is available online through Nov. 20 at www.raceforthechocolate.com. Prices increase Nov. 15.
Onsite registration will be available at packet pickup on Nov. 22 and race day morning. Runners receive a long sleeve technical shirt, personalized bib, finisher medal for the first 500 registered runners and swag bag. 10k runners will also receive a special surprise gift at the finish line.
The event is being organized by Blended Events, LLC, a local event management company that produced the Sept. 29 Color The Town 5k in New Town.
