2nd Annual Racing Hearts 5K/10K – Benefitting Stanford Heart Research

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On Sunday, March 22, 2015 at 9am, runners and walkers alike will do some final stretches and hit the course at Stanford’s PAC 12 Plaza.

Managed completely by volunteers, the non-profit organization, Racing Hearts, was founded in 2012 by Stephanie Martinson. A speech pathologist at the Palo Alto Veteran’s Hospital, Stephanie has lived a significant portion of her life with an enlarged heart, undergoing multiple surgeries as well as other related issues . Based on her personal and professional knowledge, Stephanie launched Racing Hearts a grassroots movement to place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in high-risk locations to help saves the lives of those who go into cardiac arrest. To promote their live-saving cause, Racing Hearts has partnered with a number of schools, cities, recreation centers as well as fitness and health organizations, including Stanford Medical Center and their Center for Inherited Cardiovascular Disease.

Nearly 300,000 Americans, including 15,000 children, die of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) each year. It can strike anyone at anytime, anywhere. By having quick and easy access to an AED, which provides an electric shock to return the heart to its normal rhythm, those who survive this sudden loss of heart function increases from 5% to 80%.

Part of Racing Hearts raising awareness campaign includes their 5K/10K race on the Stanford University campus. Limited to 600 participants, this event sold out in 2014, the first year the race took place. Registration for the 2015 event opened January 11th, so if you want to run, walk or stroll to help raise money for and awareness of cardiovascular disease, now’s the time!

There is a 5K adult race, a 5K race for children 12 and under and a 10K adult race. Strollers are welcome but your four legged friends are encouraged to stay home. Bib pick-up begins at 7:30am the morning of the event.

In addition to a variety of vendors offering pre-race ‘fuel’, AED demonstrations and pre and post-race entertainment, free parking is available. The Racing Hearts 5/10K it a great way to show your support and exercise your healthy heart!

Learn more about Racing Hearts and be sure to sign up for your spot in the March 22nd race now!