So what will you be doing early New Year’s Day morning?
It’s more than likely you’ll still be in bed, sleeping in from the events of the night before.
Or maybe you will have awakened and leisurely waiting for the start of the Michigan-USC football game.
While most will be taking it easy on the first day of the new year, some will be up bright and early, chomping at the bit to get the jump on the competition in the Fifth Annual Resolution Run/Walk downtown.
In what has quickly become a Lake Orion tradition, runners from near and far will compete in the event which starts at 10 a.m. at the Lake Orion DDA office at the corner of Broadway and Shadbolt streets.
Ron Kalso, owner of Global Soccer and chairperson for the Resolution Run, said the 5K race is a perfect way for runners and fitness buffs to start off the new year.
Those who aren’t worried about keeping pace with the finely-tuned athletes can take part in the one-mile run.
‘This event started out as just a fun run,? said Kalso. ‘We had about 50 or so runners in the first year, but it’s really caught on and gets bigger every year. We are getting people from all over now.?
Among the competitors, typically about half are current or former Lake Orion High School athletes, many of whom are back in town for the holidays.
Kalso excuses himself from the competition, saying he’ll be doing enough running around before and during the race.
‘I won’t be running, but I’ll be there with them at the start and the finish,? he said.
With 240 runners taking part in last year’s race, Kalso anticipates another outstanding field of runners, although weather could be a factor in the turnout.
‘We’ve been blessed with good weather in the past,? he said. ‘It’s been great the last couple years and we hope that continues.?
Regardless of the elements, he expects there will be plenty of hardy souls on hand for the start of the event.
‘No matter what, it’s a good time,? he said. ‘Everybody has a blast.?
Prizes will be awarded the top finishers, including a $100 gift certificate for purchases or services at downtown Lake Orion businesses.
Final registration is at 9 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 1, for a $20 entry fee.
The entry fees for pre-registration are $15 or $12 for the 1-mile walk or children 12 and under.
For more information or to register in advance for the New Year’s Day Resolution Run/Walk, call the DDA office at 693-9742.