The Harvard Conservation Trust (HCT) will hold its first annual "Run for the Hills" 5K run on Sunday, Sept. 12, at the McCurdy Track. Race director Ted McMahon is excited about the race and says that the race, which is sponsored by the Harvard Road Race Association, is "an event not to be missed."

The idea for the race first came about when the Harvard Conservation Trust was on a campaign to "raise awareness and funds to support its mission," McMahon says. The idea gained support with the Harvard Road Race Association's desire "to create a trail event in keeping with the town's tradition of cross-country running," he adds. "Harvard is envied nationwide for producing not only the state's best runners, but also national and world champions." This race, he says, is an opportunity to help showcase that talent on one of the town's newest conservation trails.

Another important part of Harvard's culture will also be showcased, and benefited, on this race. "Harvard," McMahon says, "is known for its beautiful landscapes, meadows, and vistas—of which an ever-growing portion is protected by the work of the HCT … Because of the generous response from our race sponsors, one hundred percent of the other funds raised will directly help HCT preserve the rural character of Harvard through land conservation and stewardship."

McMahon has high hopes for the race, saying that "Run for the Hills has generated a lot of interest both locally and from out-of-staters." There are prizes for the top finishers in each of the eight age categories for males and females, and the serious runners will enjoy all the benefits of a large-scale competitive road race. "The course is precisely measured at 5 kilometers," he says. He adds that the race "will be computer timed by a professional company—important for those serious about their results."

However, McMahon says, the course will not only be great for the most competitive runners, but also for casual joggers and those who would like to support a good cause by walking some beautiful trails. "We are welcoming young and old who simply would like to enjoy some of Harvard's landscapes," he says.

The race director adds that it has been important to bring the HCT and the Harvard Road Race Association together for the race, saying that the "collaboration has advanced the idea" into the final stage—next Saturday's race.

The race is held on the same course where the Bromfield cross-country team holds its home meets. McMahon notes that this is an excellent opportunity for the public to participate in a race on one of Massachusetts' premier 5K cross country courses, and adds that he "[will have to be] held back when the gun goes off… but will likely have other responsibilities." He says he "will take a page out of the playbook of Dave McGillivray [race director of the Boston Marathon] and run the course after the race as an unofficial finisher."

McMahon's final call to potential runners is this: "We have all seen inspirational stories of those with challenges complete events such as Ironman triathlons and running marathons. Please think of these and ask yourself if there is truly something holding you back from at least walking these 3.1 miles. Please come celebrate Harvard's beauty and traditions … while helping to preserve them."

The race has both pre-registration and same-day registration. More information can be seen on www.runforthehills.org. Run for the Hills will begin at 2 p.m. Sept. 12 at the McCurdy Track at Harvard Park, 34 Lancaster Country Road.