By Jared Curtis

Participants show off their holiday spirit at last year’s AIB Jingle Jog. This year’s event takes place on Saturday, Dec. 17 at Gray’s Lake starting at 8:30 a.m. Participants can register the day of the event starting at 7:30 a.m. For more information, visit http://www.jinglejog.org or find them on facebook.

Winter run returns for fourth year

As the temperatures drop, runners head indoors to be active. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Running enthusiasts have one more chance in 2011 to participate in an outdoor race — the 4th Annual AIB Jingle Jog.

“The event was started by a former organizer who really enjoyed running and jogging and wanted to tie something athletic into an AIB event,” said Josh Daines, co-chair of the event with Ann Wright and Amy Tagliareni. “We thought it was a great idea because the local running community is extremely active and dedicated. It’s really becoming a great event and something runners look forward to every year.”

On Saturday, Dec. 17 starting at 8:30 a.m., students and running enthusiasts will participate in a two-or four-mile run/walk around Gray’s Lake. Registration is $25 and all participants will receive a free T-shirt for participating. All of the proceeds benefit The Des Moines Area Religious Council food pantry (DMARC) and AIB student organizations.

“Each year we look where the proceeds should go. This year we decided on DMARC because it’s a great organization, and the need for their food pantry from the local community is at an all-time high,” Daines said. “Although you’re not required, we encourage participants to bring canned food items to donate as well.”

The group raised close to $1,000 last year during the event thanks to registration fees, raffles and donations.

“We’re hoping to raise more money this year,” Daines said. “The more we can raise for the food pantry, the better.”

According to Daines, not only is the race for a good cause, but it’s one of the most festive events around.

“Everyone will get jingle bells to wear, and we’ll have carolers performing throughout the course,” he said. “We’ll also have our own Jingle Jog elf on the course, and Santa will be making an appearance.”

Although costumes are not required, Daines encourages everyone to dress up and have fun with it.

“We always have some great, festive outfits every year,” he said. “You’ll see lots of people wearing Santa hats or wrapping tinsel around their body. People really get into it, which makes the event that much better.”

Racing categories will be divided into groups based on age and gender, with the top finishers taking home medals and prizes.

“Chris Burch at the Des Moines Marathon was kind enough to donate two pre-registrations for next year’s marathon. So the top male and female finisher will receive free entry into the marathon next year,” Daines said. “A lot of local runners look forward to the marathon, and this is a great way to get in for free.”

After the race, awards will be given, and participants can warm up with some hot chocolate.

“Any time you have an event in Iowa in December, it’s going to be chilly,” Daines laughs. “So we thought, ‘Why not offer hot chocolate to warm everyone up after competing.’ ”

Although the weather outside might be frightful, Daines encourages everyone to participate and warm the bellies of hungry central Iowans in the process.

“It’s a great chance to get outside and enjoy beautiful surroundings of Gray’s Lake while helping raise money for a good cause in need,” he said. “Plus, it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and be active.” CV