For the next few months, running enthusiasts will have the opportunity to participate in a number of fantastic races across California. The Sacramento region in particular is full of events for people of all ages, skill levels and interests. Whether you are an avid runner or just looking for a healthy way to support the community, consider joining in a local 5K or 10K race. Most races benefit a nonprofit organization, so you will be benefiting your body, mind and spirit! Here are some upcoming events to consider: Gold Rush Fun Run & Walk October 8, 2011, Placerville, CA This family and dog friendly event features 10 Mile, 10K, 5K, and 1 mile race courses along the El Dorado Trail, plus r

Fishing, hunting, camping, hiking or hang-gliding, the International Sportsmen's Exposition will have it all this weekend at Cal Expo. Exhibits and demonstrations will stretch four buildings, as hands-on activities cover outside. Casting competitions and fishing tournaments will be available. Casting tarps stretched 100 feet across the floor of building C, will provide the forum for fellow anglers. A large fish-filledaquarium will be featured for live demonstrations. Prizes include new fishing equipment. Clinics with professional anglers and hunters will be held for the home amateur to learn tricks of the trade. Classes include camouflage, duck calls and hunting laws. DockDogs will perfo

Once considered a foolish notion only a generation ago, The Great Race, "the world's oldest triathlon," returns to Sacramento for its 36th campaign. Located along the American River Parkway, the annual event brings the history and allure of the original modern triathlon, now a staple in U.S. competitive summer sports. "My PR team thought it was a crazy stunt," said restaurant owner Eppie Johnson, referring to his pitch for a three-pronged race. "I was a kayaker, so I'd be in it. And I thought, 'Well, this is a quick way to both kayak and advertise the restaurant.' And the people had a great time, so it worked out well," he said. "Between the San Francisco and Sacramento communities, we h

The summer edition of the Sacramento Fire Department's Community Newsletter discusses the dangers of swimming in the river. It mentions that the river bottoms can be uneven and have steep drop-offs and the currents are strong, so a life vest should be worn at all times. Under the City and County of Sacramento ordinances, it is against the law for a child under the age of 13 to enter public waters without a life vest. Parents or guardians who do not put life vests on their children can be fined up to $500 and cited for a misdemeanor.  If you don't have a life vest on hand, there are plenty of places to borrow one. The following fire stations have life vests for the public to borrow: FI