The Night Run 8k and 3-mile fun run returns to Old Town Scottsdale on Saturday, May 11. Beginning at the Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, the 8k course will wind through Old Town’s night club district and along the greenbelt.

Known as “Night Run for the Arts” from the mid-1980s until 2009, the fitness tradition continues to promote healthy lifestyles.

Co-directors John Lookabaugh and Tricia Schafer took over the event in 2012 and had the 8k course certified by USA Track & Field, bringing a more competitive edge to the event. Last year, three state age group records were set, and this year promises a race fit for both elites and beginners.

“We’ve preserved the local nature of the event, and are shining the spotlight on Old Town,” explains Co-director Tricia Schafer. “We connect with our participants, sponsors, and vendors early on, creating a unique feeling of community. Many of our participants get to know each other through our training groups, vOWLunteer network, team challenge, owl mascot photo-ops, or social media contests, which makes race night feel sort of like a reunion.”

The Night Run raised $10,000 last year for Workshops for Youth & Families, a non-profit that provides leadership and development programs for teens and their parents.

“We are ready to run, walk and have fun again in 2013!” said Workshops Founder Dr. Frances Mills-Yerger. “Our 34-year history of active programming is a perfect fit with The Night Run. We want to expand our reach and increase scholarships that will influence more youth to make long-term positive health choices.”

Supporters of the 2013 event include the K2 Adventures Foundation, GoDaddy.com, SCF Arizona, Oh Yeah! Nutrition, Safeway, Security Title, and Squire Sanders LLP.

The 3-mile run/walk will begin at 7:15 p.m. and the competitive 8k at 8 p.m. Children 12 and under can participate in the 3-mile for free with a registered adult. New to this year, participants will receive reflective “night owl” shirts and there will be live owls from Liberty Wildlife at the Owl’s Nest during the event’s Health and Wellness expo.

For more race information and registration, visit thenightrun.org