By Shavonne Walker
shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — The Salisbury Police Department is hosting its second Foot Pursuit 5K, a downtown run/walk to benefit Special Olympics.

The race will be at 7 p.m. May 10.

Lt. P.J. Smith, the race organizer, said it will begin at the Police Department on Lee Street and finish at the F&M Trolley Barn.

The 3.1-mile route is from Lee Street to Council Street to North Main Street and to the city limits of Spencer, then back along the same route.

Anyone can participate in the 5K, and there will be a children’s fun run.

Adult tickets are $25; children’s tickets are $10. Registration ends May 9.

The Police Department has raised money for Special Olympics through the law enforcement Torch Run for several years. This run/walk will add to that contribution.

Smith said he has participated in Special Olympics for more than 30 years because his brother is an athlete.

“The athletes, they don’t care about being first or last or winning a gold medal or bronze medal,” Smith said.

He said the money raised allows the athletes to participate without worrying about paying for travel, food and lodging.

“As long as we continue to raise money, they don’t have to pay a dime. It’s because of fundraisers like this that we are able to fund Special Olympics,” he said.

Last year’s race was held on a Saturday and, after receiving feedback, organizers decided to hold the race on a Friday.

The race will include entertainment by a DJ at the Trolley Barn. Smith said music will be played before, during and after the race. Refreshments for race participants will be served.

“We want to make it a fun atmosphere,” Smith said.

Each runner will get a dry-fit T-shirt. Torch Run T-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds to go toward the fundraiser.

Medals will be given in each age group. Plaques will be given for the top three male and top female overall winners.

For more information about how to register or to donate for the Foot Pursuit 5K, visit   https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Salisbury/SalisburyPDFootPursuit5KRunWalk.