Competitive runners and weekend warriors have a variety of runs to choose from throughout the summer. The largest and most colorful is the Village Runner 4th of July 5K presented by UCLA Health.
Close to 3,000 people are expected to kick off their Independence Day festivities at the 23rd annual 5K and Firecracker Dash Race for kids.
Kayla Montgomery will be honored at the race. Despite having multiple sclerosis, she became an elite runner at Nashville’s Lipscomb University where she earned a Division I scholarship.
The disease creates a loss of feeling in Montgomery’s legs as her body temperature rises. Cold water is poured on her legs immediately following a race or workout to calm the misfiring nerve fibers blazing beneath her numb skin.
“I continue to push myself to defy the odds so that I can inspire those with MS who gave up,” Montgomery said. “I want people to know that regardless of what your situation is, MS does not have to come out on top. That there is always a way. Of course, having MS could very easily put limitations on my life if I let it, but that is something I do not plan on ever doing.”
The condition has forced Montgomery to create an innovative method to run by relying on the movement of her arms to control her pace.
The psychology major, who trains three hours a day, six days a week, covering 60-75 miles and has a personal best time of 17 minutes, 22 seconds in the 5K, will be presented with the Pathfinder Award prior to the 4th of July 5K.
“I am beyond stoked about this amazing opportunity,” said Montgomery. “I am so honored to have been asked to come out to this event and I cannot wait for this once in a lifetime experience.”
Brandon Vientos is the defending champion, clocking of time of 15 minutes, 22 seconds in 2015. Tanya Zeferjahn captured the women’s title at 16:43.
The 5K begins at 8 a.m., followed by  the kid’s dash at 9:30 a.m. $35 for the 5K; $25 for kid’s race. Add $5 after June 5. (310) 376-7900. villagerunner.com
Armed Forces Day 5K
Saturday, May 21
Torrance
In a tribute to Louis Zamperini, Village Runner hosts the inaugural race at 8 a.m. at Del Amo Fashion Center on Madrona Ave. The event features T-shirts, split times every mile and awards to the top three in each age division. $40. To register or for more information, log on to villagerunner.com.
Conquer Our Run
June 11
Manhattan Beach
The Conquer Our Run’s Dad’s Rule Manhattan Beach Conquest. takes place on The Strand. Proceeds directed to Lupus LA, Leukemia Research and Autism. Entry fees are $27 (5K) and $29 (10K). Register at Active.com or visit ConquerourRun.org and click SoCal.
Manhattan Beach 5K
June 25
Manhattan Beach Pier
Starting and finishing at the Manhattan Beach Pier, the course runs along the water’s edge during the lowest tide of the season. 5K race ($35) begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by Kids Races ($25) at 8:20 a.m. Contact Jeff Atkinson, jeff@olympianfitness.com or mb5k.com.
Charity Run/Walk
June 25
Dockweiler Beach
The Sean Brock Foundation and CalCPA-LA present the 4th annual 5k and 10k run/walk. Proceeds benefit families of fallen soldiers with educational assistance. 5K ($25) and 10K ($30). Races start at 9 a.m., followed by a Kids Fun Run ($20) at 10:15 a.m. (510) 584-6760. seanbrockfoundation.org.
Champions for Children 5K
July 16
South Coast Botanic Gardens
Palos Verdes Peninsula
The South Bay Children’s Health Center hosts the 3rd annual event to raise funds for dental and mental health services for children, teens and young adults throughout the South Bay. The Run/Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. Entry fees for ages 13+ is $35, ages 5-12 $25 through July 8. 310-316-1212. sbchc.com.
