[Columbia, SC] - Ranked the top March for Meals in 2006 by the Meals On Wheels Association of America, you’re invited to join Meals On Wheels and Riverbanks for the 4th annual 5K Run and Walk on Saturday, March 3. Registration has officially kicked off for the event, and participants are encouraged to register early to receive the discount rate.

“Riverbanks is pleased to once again host the annual March for Meals 5K Run and Walk,” said Satch Krantz, executive director of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. “March is a pleasant time of year at Riverbanks. The participants will enjoy the mild temperatures along with the first signs of spring popping up in the foliage throughout the Zoo and Garden.”

The 5K course begins in the parking lot of the Zoo and takes runners over the Saluda River Bridge into the Botanical Garden and back over the bridge and around the outer perimeter of the Zoo. Those individuals interested in walking will get to follow a scenic path that will wind around the Zoo and pass many of Riverbanks’ animals.

This year’s spokesperson is Olympic Gold Medalist LaTasha Colander.  LaTasha Colander is the 2004 Olympic Trials 100 m champion, 2000 Olympic 4x400 m gold medalist and two-time U.S. 400 m champion. In addition, kids will enjoy a special public appearance by G.Raff the official mascot. G.Raff will meet and greet children before and after the race and as they walk around the Zoo.

Over 450 people participated in last year’s 5K Run and Walk.  The race raised over $40,000 for the Meals on Wheels program. The committee is expecting an even larger crowd this year. Columbia Mayor Bob Coble proclaimed March as March for Meals month and urged all citizens to donate time or money to Meals On Wheels.

The race will kick off at 7:30am; check-in begins at 6:15am. Registration through February 15 is $20 for adult runners, $15 for adult walkers and $10 for children ages 12 and younger. Those registering after February 15 will pay $25 to run and $20 to walk. On the day of the race, the price increases to $30 for both runners and walkers. Registration fees include a T-shirt and a one-day pass to the Zoo. Shirts are available on a limited basis.

Meals On Wheels, a nonprofit organization, is administered through Senior Resources that delivers meals to homebound senior citizens. For more information or to register for the race contact Senior Resources at (803) 252-7734 or www.seniorresourcesinc.org.