The Woodridge Elementary School PTO is hosting the second annual Woodridge Wizards 5K Run/Walk and 1K Kids Fun Run on Saturday, April 4.

The event was organized last year as a way to generate community spirit among the students, faculty, families, neighbors and broader community in Cranston. The inaugural event was a huge success, with just under 300 runners and walkers participating.

This family friendly certified 5K Road Race includes the rolling hills in the Dean Estates area of Cranston. For the younger athletes, a 1K Kids Fun Run is offered. This year, Kevin Robinson, professional BMX biker, will be a special guest sure to entertain and motivate the kids.

All proceeds will benefit the Woodridge PTO Technology Fund, which helps to make technology available to all students at the school. Last year, the PTO was able to purchase a new laptop for each classroom in the school. With the goal to raise more funds than last year, the organizers have incorporated a large raffle with a variety of prizes from theater tickets to restaurant gift certificates. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Participants can register on Active.com with a search for “Woodridge Wizards 5K.” Registration is $10 for the 1K and $20 for the 5K. The first 250 registered will be guaranteed a race T-shirt.

“One of the nicest parts of the event,” race director and Woodridge parent Liz Harvey said, “was the spirit of community that was felt throughout the day all along the race course that winds through the neighborhood behind the school. Woodridge alumni, relatives and other Cranston students volunteered their time out on the course to flag the runners and walkers and to cheer them on.”

Runners, supporters and spectators were impressed with the food and beverage donations from local businesses Shore’s Market, Rachel’s Pastries, Honey Dew Donuts and Corner Bakery and Cafe. This year, the same vendors will be back.

Karen Clayton, a mother of a Woodridge fifth-grader, ran the 5K and said, “I really enjoyed the Woodridge 5K last year. The course was a good challenge for all ages. April is perfect 5K weather, plus it’s a family friendly event. The bonus is there are raffles and prizes! I actually won a Massage Envy gift certificate!”

Woodridge fifth-grader Nathan Evans said of last year’s race, “This was my first 5K and it was really fun. I got to run it with my dad and hang out with my friends. Everyone was cheering me on at the finish line. It was a great day.”

This was a huge undertaking for the PTO and the Woodridge 5K Committee. Volunteers are still needed for the morning of the race. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and of course, runner registration is open until approximately 8:30 a.m. on race day.

Check-in time is 8 a.m. on race day at Woodridge Elementary. Parking is available in the school parking lot and on Budlong Road. The event will be held rain or shine.

For more information, email Woodridge5K@ gmail.com, call 401-965-8690 or visit woodridgepto.webs.com/

woodridge5krunwalk.htm.