PARKERSBURG – The eighth annual Chick-fil-A 10k road race will take place at 8 a.m. Saturday and feature a diverse group of runners from various age groups.

Starting back in 2009, this year’s version of the race is largely the same with the exceptions of a newly implemented two mile walk/run and a kids race that will be sponsored by Auntie Anne’s pretzel shop.

This year all walkers and runners will get the same historic course, a fully paved, certfied loop that is mostly flat with the exception of a lone hill at the two-mile mark.

Racing will begin on 20th Street, beside the Parkersburg High School Fieldhouse and conclude on the track at PHS Stadium Field.

Chick-fil-A owner and operator George Angelos spoke about why he decided to bring the race back and a few of the new twists that have been added.

“Well, I’ve been a competitive runner and the Parkersburg Road Run/Mountain State Classic was one of my favorite races,” said Angelos. “So, Chick-fil-A decided to bring it back and we have new components we are adding this year.”

One new component Angelos mentioned is a new two-mile walk/run scheduled for 8:05 a.m. with the same beginning and ending point of the main race. There will be a turnaround on Washington Street for all competitors.

In addition to the turnaround, there will be three water stops along the route, medical personnel available at the finish line, and restrooms.

Speaking of kids, Auntie Anne’s pretzel shop will sponsor kids races beginning at 9:30 a.m. All children who participate will receive a T-shirt, medal and a free kids meal courtesy of Chick-fil-A. Registration for the kids races will be held the morning of the race and is $5.

Age divisions for each event will be split up with the 10k runners starting at 19 and under and going all the way up to 70 and older. Ages for the two mile run/walkers start at nine and under and go to 70 and up.

Angelos also mentioned how the race wouldn’t happen without the efforts of race director, Chip Allman.

“The race wouldn’t be possible without Chip Allman.” said Angelos. “He’s the president of the River City Runners and Walkers Club and also helps put on the News and Sentinel half marathon. He does a great job every year.”

Those interested in running the race now may register from 4-7 p.m. Friday at the Chick-fil-A beside Home Depot or from 6:30-7:30 a.m. Saturday of the race Stadium Field.

Registration will be $20 Friday and $25 Saturday.

All race participants will receive a moisture-resistant Tech running shirt and a free lunch from Chick-fil-A after the race. An awards ceremony will be held after the race at 10:15 a.m.

Prizes will be handed out for first, second and third place in each age group.