Spirit Run to benefit more area schools

Newport-Mesa Unified School District teachers will have more reason than ever this year to want their students to get in shape. Those miles on the track can now run into money.

On March 25, for the first time, the 24th annual Spirit Run in Newport Beach plans to offer a cash incentive to schools from all over Newport-Mesa.

The charity race has traditionally benefited the five elementary schools in the Corona del Mar zone: Andersen, Eastbluff, Harbor View, Lincoln and Newport Coast. Those schools will be the top beneficiaries again this year, but other kids can join in the fun as well — and their schools now can share in the profits.

For every Newport-Mesa student who signs up for the Spirit Run, the organizers will award $5 to his or her classroom teacher.

“Our focus is that it’s meant to be an all-inclusive race,” said Laura Favreau, a Harbor View parent who organized the race. “We want to inspire kids to work out all year round.”

A number of Newport-Mesa schools have boosted their exercise programs in recent years.

College Park Elementary School in Costa Mesa started a lunchtime running program in the fall, while Eastbluff’s running club’s enrollment has nearly doubled since its founding in 2005.

The Spirit Run, held in Fashion Island outside the Edwards Big Newport 6 Cinemas, features 5-kilometer and 10-kilometer races as well as a health expo and races of a mile or less for the youngest participants.

Most years, the event nets more than $100,000 for the schools in Corona del Mar.

This year’s event begins with registration at 6:30 a.m. on March 25; the 10-kilometer race begins at 7:15 a.m. and the 5-kilometer at 8:30 a.m.

Participants may register online at www.kinaneevents.com.