Get your feet in gear because the Run for the Roses, an annual running competition, is stomping into Ames.

The race is on the city streets and arrangements have been made with the police department.

Last year, the race had over 650 participants and, so far, registration for this year stands at 500.

There are three different races. The first race is the 5K run/walk which begins at 9:00 a.m.

After that, the kids have a chance to run for fun, and then the 10K race steps off at 10:00 a.m.

Awards will be given to the first male and female finishers and to the top three finishers in each age division.

There will also be special door prizes given out to participants who preregistered for the race.

Amy Buin, member of Alpha Omicron Pi and one of the three race directors, said planning for this year’s race began last spring.

She said that a lot of work goes into the race, but it is well worth it because it “goes to a good cause.”

She said this event is also a great event for the sorority to be involved in.

“It shows that we can do something for the community,” Buins said.

Roman Lynch, a member of the Ames Area Running Club (AARC) said the tradition began when Ames formed its running club. After a few years, they decided they wanted to organize a race.

The co-sponsorship with Alpha Omicron Pi began because of an Alpha Omicron Pi alumni connection to the AARC.

Since the first race in 1987, the two organizations have donated over $23,000 to arthritis research grants.

Lynch said that one of the best things about this race is that all of the money goes directly to arthritis research, which is not always the procedure used by race hosts.

The purpose of the race and walk is to raise funds for arthritis research grants, to provide a quality event to all participants, and to promote the AARC.

Lynch said the runners and walkers will finish the race with a loop on the ISU track where an announcer shouts some “crazy talk” to make things fun.

Everyone is encouraged compete and support the Run for the Roses and arthritis research. Just head in the direction of the ISU track this Sunday morning and keep your eyes peeled for the Roses’ registration booth.

People can register on Sunday morning between 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. at the booth.

The race day entry fee is $20, which includes a long-sleeved race T-shirt, a red rose for each finisher and an omelet breakfast.